Good morning, Peoria.

After an accidental fire on Jan.

23 left a local couple’s newly purchased home on Hollyridge Circle a total loss, a GoFundMe account was established to help cover rebuilding costs as they work with their insurance and thank neighbors for their support while firefighters confirmed no injuries.

Peoria Zoo said goodbye to Sultana, a red-river hog, & Violet, a miniature donkey, euthanized last week due to age-related problems.

The zoo thanked visitors for cherishing these beloved animals during their long service.

Dar Al-Coffee, a Yemeni café near Bradley University, extends its hours until 2 a.m. during Ramadan to support community gatherings and offer a specialized menu that celebrates Yemeni culture.

The business enhances local community spirit during the holy month.

Peoria NAACP President Marvin Hightower received the Jesse White Leadership Award in Springfield on Wednesday as part of Black History Month and thanked his family and community supporters for guiding his path in civil rights.

Business owners at Twin Towers Mall face uncertainty as new owner Make Solutions LLC sharply increases rents this week, with some prices rising from $1,000 to over $6,000; many must decide whether to pay the steep costs & remain open or close their stores.

Peoria City Council will consider extending Westlake’s business incentives to 2055 and raising its supplemental sales tax by 0.25% at its March 10 meeting to support lease agreements and boost occupancy (including a soon-to-reopen Guitar Center).

Peoria County is updating its Operational Sustainability Plan and hosting three public feedback sessions next week, including one at the Public Library’s North Branch Monday at 5:30 p.m. The review will help shape energy use and waste reduction measures at county facilities.

Peoria expert Angela Weck said the four-year war in Ukraine shows little progress as peace talks remain stalled without clear security guarantees, leaving both sides in a deadlock.

Her comments indicate that Ukraine may only exchange territory if robust security measures are ensured.

Health officials confirmed two measles cases in 2026, both linked to travel, and OSF doctor Douglas Kasper urged families to check their vaccination status since the virus spreads easily & may linger in the air for up to two hours after exposure.

Flower Chip and Dip Dish Clay Hand Building Class

5:30-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — $ — Create your own floral-inspired chip and dip dish while learning hand-building techniques in a fun and creative environment.

Bob Ross Wet-on-Wet Oil Painting: Mountain Waterfall

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — Supplies included — Unleash your inner artist with a serene landscape painting class inspired by Bob Ross.

Gnome Clay Hand Building Class

4-5:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Craft your festive St. Patrick’s Day gnome with guided clay hand-building fun!

Charcuterie Board Clay Hand Building Class

5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Design and craft your own unique ceramic charcuterie board in a fun, beginner-friendly class.

Wall Planter Clay Hand Building Class

1-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a personalized wall pocket planter in this fun, beginner-friendly class!

Cross Clay Hand Building Workshop

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a beautiful clay cross in a relaxed setting suitable for all skill levels.

Fused Glass Snowflakes Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 reservation, piece prices range from $33 to $64 — Create a shimmering glass snowflake for your winter décor.

Friday the 13th Spooky Pottery Painting

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 ticket reserves your seat — Unleash your creativity with spooky pottery painting this Friday the 13th.

2026 Blarney Blitz

8 AM – 2 PM — Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery — Entry fees apply — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a festive themed race in downtown Peoria.

Organic Chip and Dip Dish Clay Hand Building Class

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Includes materials — Craft a unique organic-shaped dish perfect for entertaining.