Good morning, Peoria.

Local law enforcement and Peoria-based Elite Community Outreach partnered to host a Straight Talk Session at the county jail on Friday, where inmates shared their experiences to help youth avoid jail.

Officials say the event provided hope and access to teachers, counselors, and support systems.

A Peoria mother got her son's memorial bench back after it was stolen nearly three weeks ago from a cemetery.

The bench (visibly damaged) will be restored and kept at the family home to honor young Damien.

AAA reported Friday that gas prices remain high in Illinois with the Peoria average at $4.04 and the state average at $4.23 compared with a national average of $3.98; Cook County tops prices at $4.50 while Brown County stays lower.

Illinois community colleges may soon offer targeted four-year degrees if legislators pass a bill advancing workforce-focused programs; the measure passed the House Executive Committee this week and co-sponsors from Peoria (Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth and Rep. Ryan Spain) say local colleges support the change.

FSIS warns that uninspected beef and pork from Illinois-based Blackwing Meats produced between April 2024 and March 2026 may be in stores and freezers.

Consumers should throw away or return such products because they falsely claim USDA inspection and could contain harmful contaminants.

Irina Riggenbach, executive director of the Peoria Opportunities Foundation, was selected for the Next Generation Building Initiative to train on Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and other tools to boost local affordable housing.

She said the program will give local groups a seat at the table — empowering Peoria’s neighborhood revitalization.

Kate Popovec-Goss left Bradley University women’s basketball to become head coach at Boston College & Bradley began a national search for her replacement after a season that brought the team its first Women’s National Invitation Tournament appearance.

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.

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.

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.

Morning Grace Canvas Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — All supplies included — Paint a serene sunrise scene symbolizing hope and renewal with guided instruction.

Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs vs Peoria Rivermen

7:15-8:15 p.m. — Peoria Civic Center — Cost info not specified — Watch the Rail Yard Dawgs take on the Rivermen in an exciting hockey matchup.

Fused Glass Cross Creation Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Create a stunning fused glass cross while enjoying a fun, beginner-friendly atmosphere.

Live at The Five Spot: Featuring Tambora

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Peoria RiverFront Market — Free entry — Experience an evening of vibrant music with Tambora at the Contemporary Art Center.

Stained Glass Foundations Workshop

9:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Art at the Bodega — $85 — Create your own stained glass masterpiece in this fun, hands-on beginner workshop.

Paint with Baby Goats!

3-5 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 for seat reservation — Create pottery while interacting with adorable baby goats in a fun studio atmosphere.

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.