Good morning, Peoria.

A Pekin resident faced shocking water bills from a suspected leak while preparing her rental for sale last summer; local plumbers advised checking for unseen drips and contacting Illinois American Water (which offers a one-time credit) if bills suddenly rise.

SNAP benefits changes took effect May 1 and Sophia’s Kitchen is now serving about 550 visitors a day, a number similar to when benefits were paused last winter.

The kitchen asks for more volunteers and donations as costs increase — it fears visitor numbers may rise this summer.

Peoria residents now face gas prices rising from $2.85 to $4.90 and are driving less + dining out more to manage costs.

Local commuters report cutting longer trips to stick closer to community options.

Peoria Public Schools Director of Safety DeMario Boone described an encounter with second graders facing anger and emotional control issues — urging local parents and volunteers to support children both at home and in school.

He emphasized that community involvement is key to helping young students develop better coping skills.

State lawmakers reviewed progress on Evidence-Based Funding for public schools, noting that many districts including those serving Peoria receive less than 90% of their target despite an extra $3 billion in state aid over 10 years.

Lawmakers and educators say the shortfall contributes to staffing shortages and program cuts.

3rd graders at Northmoor Primary sold lemonade yesterday on Northmoor Road to raise funds for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for childhood cancer research and learn empathy—an annual tradition at the school.

Richwoods High School student Anda Wattanakit has been named to the Illinois All-State Journalism Team—an honor given to 17 top students—for her work as editor-in-chief of The Shield.

Aging agencies in Peoria have asked Springfield legislators for an extra $10 million to help serve the homebound elderly.

The funds will cut meal waiting times for over 95,000 seniors in six counties (30,000 live in rural areas) and help prevent costly nursing home stays.

According to a report from LendingTree, Illinois roads improved since 2019 with 9.4% in poor condition, yet bridges remain a challenge at 11.2%—ranking fifth worst statewide.

The study compared federal data on road and bridge conditions to help local drivers plan ahead.

Experts advise Illinois homeowners to mow lawns at a pace that follows growth while avoiding cutting more than one-third of the grass for proper care.

They recommend mowing mid-morning (8–10 a.m.) or late afternoon (4–6 p.m.) and starting in mid-April until November.

New Hampton Inn opened today at 3:20 a.m. along the East Peoria riverfront.

The 100-room hotel is a $21 million investment by Frontier Hospitality Group — a ribbon-cutting celebration is planned for June 4.

Peoria Rivermen lost 3 to 1 to the Evansville Thunderbolts on Thursday night, evening the SPHL President’s Cup Finals at two games each.

The decisive Game 5 will be held Saturday at Carver Arena — puck drop is at 7:15 p.m.

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.

Peoria City Home Opener against Des Moines Menace

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Shea Stadium — Enjoy thrilling soccer action as Peoria City faces off against perennial league power Des Moines Menace in their home opener.

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.