Daily
Peoria
Friday, March 20th, 2026
Good morning, Peoria. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Beck Oil plans to build a new gas station on Knoxville Avenue, which local residents say will triple traffic and raise noise. City management said the project is approved but must clear access issues with the state before it moves forward. 25 News Now
- ➤ The 40th annual Food Canathon is collecting canned and packaged food items at Kroger and other local supermarkets from March 19 through March 29 to support local food pantries amid ongoing food insecurity. Over 40 years, more than three million pounds of food have been donated. 25 News Now
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A dog helped save a home in Dunlap when a sheriff’s deputy spotted smoke and barking near 8:45 p.m. Wednesday; fire crews rushed in plus rescued the animal and put out the flames before reuniting it with its owner. WMBD
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ After nearly two years of applications and denials, Pop-Up Chicken in the Warehouse District received a liquor license, with owner Aaron Francis expecting a 48-hour state approval turnaround—paving the way for expanded dinner service and full operations. WCBU
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Dr. Mae Gilliland and Catherine Lawless explained the new Dallinger Series, created to honor Kathleen Dallinger’s memory, during a recent Out and About episode. The series begins with An Evening with Lorissa Rinehart on March 24 to explore Jeannette Rankin’s legacy. WCBU
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Illinois Central College announced that WoodView Commons Apartments, a shuttered student housing facility on its East Peoria campus, will reopen in August after a local investment group buys the property. The new owners will upgrade the 20-year-old building with updated furnishings, appliances, and paint—ensuring a better on-campus experience for students. WCBU
- ➤ Sarah Howard extended her lead in the District 3 school board race as ballots were counted on Thursday — increasing her total to 3,117 votes while Doug Shannon reached 3,031. Vote-by-mail totals continue to be added for up to two weeks. WMBD
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Peoria International Airport is operating normally despite a partial government shutdown affecting TSA operations; Director Gene Olson said spring break travelers should arrive two hours early as staff keep services steady — no delays have been reported. WMBD
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Kids Spring Break Art Camp – Pottery
10:00-11:30 a.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Kids can unleash their creativity with fun pottery projects during spring break.
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6 Week Wheel Throwing Class
6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $285 — Unleash your creativity and learn pottery techniques in a hands-on wheel throwing class.
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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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The graveyard is the richest place on earth, because it is here that you will find all the hopes and dreams that were never fulfilled.
~ Les Brown
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