Good morning, Peoria.

At a board meeting Monday, a Peoria Public Schools teacher used a $10,000 chocolate research grant to give students interactive science lessons with university labs—resulting in multiple competition wins and stronger partnerships.

The board also recognized improved attendance, introduced a new CFO, and approved online learning renewals.

Stroke Awareness Month sparks a Peoria support group that meets every third Thursday at Hult Education Center to help stroke survivors and caregivers connect + members also plan to attend the United Stroke Alliance Strike Out Stroke event with the Peoria Chiefs on May 20.

OSF Healthcare Children's Hospital and the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria will end their affiliation with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital on June 30.

Mike McCoy (founder of local fundraising events for childhood cancer) said his team remains committed to supporting affected families.

Illinois health officials are investigating a possible hantavirus case in Winnebago County after a resident became ill from exposure to rodent droppings while cleaning a home.

The patient recovered from mild symptoms & the case is not linked to the recent cruise outbreak.

OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois and UICOMP will end their affiliation with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and launch an independent pediatric cancer and blood disorder institute.

The change — a shift to independent care — will start June 30 in Peoria to ensure uninterrupted treatment for families.

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.

Ice Cream Social & Bowl Painting

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 — Create memories by painting your own ceramic bowl while enjoying delicious local ice cream.

Juicer Clay Hand Building Class

4:00–5:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Creative clay crafting — Squeeze creativity into your kitchen with a hands-on clay juicer class.

Kids’ Night Out: Mario Madness

5:30-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Check the website for costs — Drop off the kids for a night of Mario movie fun and a creative paint party.

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.