Good morning, Peoria.

The Junior League of Peoria marked its 90th anniversary on Thursday by dedicating Lake Avenue from University Street to Knoxville Avenue as 'Junior League Way' with Mayor Rita Ali present, honoring the nonprofit's many years of community service.

Ice cream stands in the Peoria area are opening for the season, giving locals new spots to enjoy cool treats.

The Dream Hut in Bartonville opens today at 11 a.m., while additional locations in Pekin, Washington and downtown Peoria will open from Sunday through mid-March.

On March 6, Illinois gas prices rose to an average of $3.40 per gallon, with Peoria at $3.27 — a jump tied to higher global crude oil costs.

AAA reported the national average reached $3.32 as prices increased since the previous week.

Regular gas in Peoria was priced at $3.27 on March 6, with Cook County at $3.54 and Pope County at $3.05 — a sign of rising costs from higher crude oil prices.

Rising energy costs are impacting local travel budgets across the state.

Peoria educator Emily Dawson received a $10K Mars Chocolate History grant to study Hawaiian cacao — a project that will bring advanced research into the classroom.

She will work at Western Illinois University labs with Peoria Public Schools students to expand their science lab experiences.

The Peoria County Sheriff’s Office will receive 45 new AEDs funded by nearly $53,000 from the Gary Sinise Foundation, replacing aging devices in patrol vehicles.

The grant covers the full cost so deputies can respond faster to cardiac emergencies without using taxpayer funds.

State Sen. Sue Rezin has proposed a bill that would change fentanyl death classifications from overdose to poisoning, a move opposed by the Peoria County coroner and local harm reduction services.

The bill, meant to reduce stigma for affected families, must still come to the Senate floor.

OSF HealthCare was named by Becker’s Hospital Review among 165 hospitals for investing in employee well-being, offering strong time-off benefits, tuition support, and mental health resources; the accolade motivates them to build a supportive workplace that attracts top talent.

Bradley survived a double-overtime game against Valparaiso on Friday at Enterprise Center in St. Louis with a 90—84 win; the team advances to today's 5 p.m. Arch Madness semifinal against the winner of the Illinois State and Northern Iowa match.

Washington High’s girls basketball team won its semifinal match 55 to 34 and now will face sixth ranked Chatham Glenwood for the state championship today at 4:00 p.m. at CEFCU Arena; the game gives the Panthers a chance to win their first state title.

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.

Beginner Stained Glass Workshop

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — $85 — Create your own stunning stained glass art in a fun, hands-on workshop.

Mud and Music Event

2-4 p.m. — The Clay Den — $5 entry — Enjoy live local music while crafting pottery in a cozy, artsy atmosphere.

Fairy Tale Storytime

6:00-6:30 p.m. — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Enjoy an enchanting storytime filled with fairy tales, crafts, and treats designed for young children.