Good morning, Peoria.

New Hope Apartments closed on Monday due to loss of federal funding, leaving around 5 to 15 residents without shelter.

City leaders and nonprofit outreach provided emergency supplies and storage for belongings while working to secure transitional housing for over 80 affected residents.

Peoria gas prices climbed for the fourth week to $2.95 on Monday, up 7.4 cents from last week, according to GasBuddy & AAA Illinois.

The upward trend is driven by seasonal tightening & broader market dynamics affecting costs.

Central Illinois continues to face severe drought today after record-low rainfall in February, and forecasts predict a 60–70% chance of above normal precipitation in March, leaving residents in the hardest-hit counties on alert for ongoing dry conditions.

Peoria neighborhood and homeowner associations can apply for the Neighborhood Mini Grant Program through April 3 – first-time applicants may get up to $5,000 while returning groups can receive up to $2,500 for community projects.

Applicants must show support as funds will be awarded by mid-April.

Valley Springs Artesian Gold recalled six water bottle types from stores in Illinois and Wisconsin after an FDA investigation in February found insanitary conditions, and customers are advised to stop using these products immediately.

Mortgage rates in Peoria have dropped to about 6% (previously 6.5 to 7 percent), which may help new buyers and homeowners save money on their loans by lowering interest costs over time.

Statewide high school boys' basketball teams are competing in the 2026 IHSA playoffs after regional finals reduced the field to 128 teams — sectional semifinals occur today and on Wednesday, with championships on Friday.

Two Peoria-area girls basketball teams advanced after winning supersectionals Monday night.

The Washington Lady Panthers will face Arlington Heights Saint Viator on Friday at 11:45 a.m. and the Dee-Mack Lady Chiefs will meet Rockford Christian on Thursday at 11:45 a.m. with winners playing for state titles on Saturday.

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.

Ladies' Night: Gal Pals and Glazes

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 — Unwind with friends while sipping drinks and painting pottery in a relaxing atmosphere.

Salsa Night at Contemporary Art Center

9:30 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $5 for members, $8 for non-members — Dance the night away with Salsa, Cha Cha, and more in a lively setting.