Good morning, Peoria.

Dutch Bros Coffee plans to build a shop at the busy intersection of University Street and War Memorial Drive and will seek a special-use permit on May 1—councilmember Chuck Grayeb said he believes the neighborhood will back the proposal.

The land was once a Jim McComb Chevrolet dealership and a credit union site.

Cullinan Properties has named Kevin Thornton as its new executive vice president of construction to lead projects like the Shoppes at Grand Prairie and the East Peoria Levee District—he brings 42 years of experience to support further developments in Downtown Peoria and the region.

Peoria City Council will consider a local grocery tax at its meeting Tuesday to replace lost revenue when the state tax ends on January 1.

City Manager Patrick Urich said a $5 million gap may force cuts in fire, police, public works, and other city services — a decision aimed at keeping taxes steady for local households.

Jean-Guy Trudel was named the SPHL Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season on Friday — his fourth such honor — and became the first coach in league history to reach 400 wins while the Rivermen tied a record with 40 wins using a roster of over 60 players.

The team continued its playoff run in Evansville after falling 2-0 in Peoria on Wednesday.

The Peoria Rivermen, defending champions and top seed, were eliminated from the SPHL playoffs on Friday after a 3 to 1 loss in Game 2 to the Evansville Thunderbolts — ending their run in the best of three series.

Evansville will advance to the President's Cup Finals next week to face the winner from another matchup.

Peoria Rivermen coach Jean-Guy Trudel was named SPHL Coach of the Year for the fourth time after guiding his team to a 40-10-6 record—one of the league's best marks.

He also set an all-time record for coaching wins and thanked his staff and team ownership for their support.

Cedar Rapids Kernels vs. Peoria Chiefs

2:05 – 6:05 p.m. — Dozer Park — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling Minor League Baseball game between the Cedar Rapids Kernels and Peoria Chiefs.

Fused Glass Plant Stakes Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Sucre Sweets and Socials — Ticket includes drinks and treats — Create colorful glass plant stakes in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Matisse-Inspired Floral Acrylic Painting Class

5:30-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Prices vary — Create a stunning Matisse-inspired masterpiece on a wood canvas with guided artistic assistance.

Highland Cow Planter Workshop

4:30-6 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create your own charming clay planter with expert guidance and take home a plant to bring it to life.

Spring Gnome Clay Hand Building Class

4:30-6:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Unleash creativity as you sculpt and glaze your own whimsical flower gnome to welcome spring.

Mother’s Day Kids' Workshop

12-3 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Pre-registration required — Let kids unleash their creativity with art projects for mom and grandma in a kids-only joyous setting.

Pick Your Project Open Studio Time

11 AM – 4 PM — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies by project — Unleash your creativity with pottery, glass, and canvas projects in a friendly DIY space.

Fused Glass Ocean Wave Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee applies — Create a shimmering glass ocean wave piece in this engaging workshop.

6 Week Wheel Throwing Class

5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $275 — Unleash your creativity with a hands-on pottery class perfect for beginners and skilled potters alike.

Training Officer Bootcamp

1-3 p.m. — Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino — No cost — Enhance your training skills and network at this comprehensive bootcamp for training officers.