Good morning, Peoria.

A FinanceBuzz report shows that Illinois' effective tax rate is 21.3% (based on 2025 data with a median income of $65,318), making it the eighth highest among states.

The report compares Illinois with states having higher taxes such as Oregon and states with lower taxes like Florida.

Peoria gas prices are $4.26 a gallon, up 23.4 cents in the last week and 91 cents higher than a month ago—analysts warn further increases may come as rising wholesale costs and global oil supply concerns persist.

Peoria native Sgt. Bryson Williams was named the Illinois Army National Guard’s 2026 Noncommissioned Officer of the Year—earning the honor in a three-day Best Warrior Competition held in Marseilles from March 26-29.

He excelled in physical and mental challenges while representing the local unit.

The Journal Star invites local voters to choose its high school girls athlete of the week, featuring standout nominees from Peoria Notre Dame, Pekin and Eureka.

Votes close at noon Friday (official instructions are provided by the paper).

Illinois media announced the all-state boys basketball teams for 2025-26 on April 6 — local player Quinton Kitt from East Peoria earned a first-team spot in Class 3A.

Top vote-getters received Player of the Year honors, including Nathaniel Marlow for Class 1A.

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.

Story Time Jamboree

10:00 – 10:45 AM — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Celebrate the joy of childhood with stories, songs, and silliness.

6 Week Wheel Throwing Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $285 — Learn the art of pottery from wheel throwing to glazing over six weeks.

Southern Illinois Salukis vs. Bradley Braves Baseball

1-2 p.m. — Dozer Park — Ticket pricing on UNATION — Feel the thrill of college baseball as the Salukis take on the Braves.

Bob Ross Wet-on-Wet Oil Painting: Blue Ridge Falls

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — Supplies included — Unleash your inner artist and create a serene mountain scene with expert guidance.

Mushroom Fairy House Clay Hand Building Class

1:00 – 2:30 PM — The Clay Den — Registration fee applies — Create a whimsical mushroom fairy house in this enchanting clay hand-building class.

Morning Grace Canvas Workshop

5:30-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — All supplies included — Capture the beauty of dawn with step-by-step painting instruction in a friendly environment.

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.