Good morning, Peoria.

According to GasBuddy, Peoria's average gas price nears $5 per gallon on Monday as refinery outages and global supply factors push prices 50 cents higher than last week; analysts say potential OPEC+ production increases and U.S. efforts in the Strait of Hormuz could ease costs soon.

High school students from Peoria attended a panel at Distillery Labs Monday, where they learned how AI skills can shape future careers in technology.

The event, part of GPEDC Economic Development Week, continues through Friday — offering hands-on insights for real-world job opportunities.

Heartland Community College’s Challenger Learning Center will expand STEM opportunities for middle schoolers in local counties using an $8,000 donation from Enel Green Power; the funding will support field trips, scholarships, and teacher development at the Normal campus.

County officials approved a $203,200 makeover for downtown Pekin campus; Chambers & Sons Landscaping will improve the grounds at the courthouse, justice center and McKenzie Building using a trap rock option that lowers maintenance costs – officials say the work is long overdue.

OSF HealthCare is expanding its fellowship program with a new outpatient cardiology track that offers hands-on simulation and clinical instruction in urban and rural settings across Illinois.

Applications are now open with a deadline of June 1.

Last Friday, health inspectors at the local health department made spicy bowls in a commercial kitchen (in a safe demonstration) to show safe food practices and warn that home kitchens risk unsafe food temperatures.

They also offered advice to help locals start a food business with proper licensing.

Peoria health officials are asking residents to nominate businesses that support breastfeeding parents by offering private spaces and flexible break times until May 31.

The effort aims to honor workplaces that assist mothers and infants in the community.

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.

Ladies Night: Gal Pals and Glazes

6 PM–12 AM — Art at the Bodega — $10 entry — Unwind with friends while painting pottery and enjoying good vibes and drinks.

Live Music: Robin Crowe at Five Spot

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $8-members, $12-nonmembers — Enjoy heartfelt roots-infused music from Robin Crowe and her band.

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.