Good morning, Peoria.

Dunlap High School students are preparing 100 meals with rice, chicken, brownies, cookies, and drinks for people experiencing homelessness in Peoria during Ramadan.

The meals, provided by Curly Shawarma and distributed by Lula Peoria, support the community until the holy month ends March 19.

Goodwill of Central Illinois is opening a new East Peoria thrift store on March 18 at 9 a.m. at 456 Camp St; the store will offer books, clothing, housewares, and toys and employ over 30 people (supporting community programs).

Gas prices in Peoria averaged $3.68 per gallon Monday, up 76.3 cents from last month and 45.1 cents from last year, with local stations ranging from $3.53 + $3.99 per gallon.

Gov. Pritzker signed an order to form a working group that will study how to boost the share of adults with college degrees after recent data showed the state fell short of a 60% goal; the group will deliver its recommendations by Dec.

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U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, a Bradley grad with a long record in community affairs, is running for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Sen. Durbin in an Illinois primary.

Kelly, who represents a district from Chicago to Danville, has backing from local leaders + faces tough competition from fellow candidates.

Local readers can vote online for the Journal Star high school boys athlete of the week nominees (Richwoods, Manual, and Washington); the poll will close at noon Friday.

Bradley University is sending both its men's and women's basketball teams to the National Invitation Tournament.

The men's team will play Dayton at Carver Arena Wednesday at 8 p.m. while the women's schedule will be announced Monday.

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.

Fused Glass Cross Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee applies — Create a stunning fused glass cross with personalized colors and floral details.

Murray State Racers vs. Bradley Braves Men's Baseball

6 p.m. — Dozer Park — Ticketed event — Feel the thrill of college baseball as Murray State takes on Bradley Braves at Dozer Park.

Spring Chicken Canvas Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — All supplies included — Paint a cheerful scene of adorable chickens in a blooming meadow with step-by-step guidance.

Fused Glass Spring Flower Basket Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Craft a colorful fused glass flower basket masterpiece in a fun, hands-on workshop.

Spring Break Mini Clay Camp for Kids

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — The Clay Den — Registration required — Explore ceramics with hands-on activities like hand building and wheel throwing for kids ages 7 and up.

A Taste of Ireland - The Irish Music & Dance Sensation

Direct from Off-Broadway and starring former World Irish Dance champions from productions like Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, A Taste of Ireland is a high-energy celebration of Irish music, dance, and storytelling that brings Ireland’s history to life with wit and heart. Featuring live singing and dancing, reimagined Irish classics, and electrifying tap battles, the show blends tradition and modern flair into an unforgettable night of Celtic entertainment.