Good morning, Peoria.

Caterpillar reported strong Q1 earnings on Thursday, with revenues reaching $947M + a 10% increase, and expects tariff costs between $2.2 and $2.4 billion in 2026, lower than the earlier $2.6 billion projection; the company also named Kyle Epley as its new CFO.

Los Cabos Cantina and Grill canceled its outdoor Cinco de Mayo celebration after last year's fights, overcrowding and heavy drinking compromised safety — future events will now be held indoors until attendees show renewed respect for a family-friendly setting.

The Peoria Heights Fine Art Fair runs May 9 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and May 10 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at Tower Park, where local art is shown in forms like painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry, and textiles along with live music, food trucks, and family activities.

Gas prices are rising in our state as AAA reported pumps seeing rates over $5 a gallon, with Peoria’s average at $4.62.

The increase, documented yesterday, may continue through summer as demand rises with better weather.

At Illinois Central College’s ceremony on Thursday at its Performing Arts Center, 68 students committed to apprenticeships in manufacturing, healthcare, and IT while 19 were recognized for completing their training, marking the largest signing event since 2019 with employers including Carle Health, Caterpillar + Liberty Steel.

Over 100 children enjoyed a three-day spring planting event at Three Sisters’ Park in Chillicothe last week.

They husked corn & planted seeds with 1918 tools as part of a long tradition teaching farming history.

Concerned residents gathered at Detweiller Playground on Wednesday to oppose a proposed land sale to O’Brien Steel that could close Caroline Street (the access route to Rock Island Greenway Trail) while city officials have not yet discussed the plan.

Chaia Meier was named Bradley’s head women’s basketball coach on April 3 after a successful run at Edgewood and Marquette.

She quickly worked to re-recruit players from the transfer portal + keep the team together as she starts her new role close to home.

5th Annual Nun Run for Cancer

8-11 a.m. — RC Outfitters — Registration fee required — Celebrate community and hope in the fight against cancer at this inspiring race.

Rage With Clay

1-3 p.m. — The Clay Den — $35 — Unleash your creativity and stress in a fun and messy clay experience designed for beginners.

Fused Glass Cross Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Costs vary — Create a stunning fused glass cross with personalized colors and floral details in a fun, beginner-friendly setting.

Flower Clay Hand Building Class for Mother's Day

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Class fee applies — Create everlasting clay flowers as a heartfelt gift for Mom this Mother's Day weekend.

Flower Vase Clay Hand Building Class

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $35 class fee — Celebrate Mom by crafting a unique flower-shaped vase in this hands-on clay class.

Taylor Swift Tribute Experience

7:30 PM — ICC CougarPlex — Check local listings for entry details — Experience the magic of Taylor Swift through captivating performances and great music.

Flower Vase Clay Hand Building Class

4:00 – 5:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $40.00 — Create a unique flower-shaped vase in a fun, hands-on class with no experience necessary.

Silly Goose Canvas Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — All supplies included — Paint a charming springtime goose in this fun, beginner-friendly class.

EAA Flying Start Event

8:30-10:30 a.m. — Mount Hawley Aviation, LLC — Free entry — Discover how to get your pilot's license and take to the skies with a flight.

Flower Pot Clay Hand Building Class

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials provided — Create a custom flower pot and saucer in this fun, beginner-friendly hand-building class.

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.