Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 22nd of May.
Good morning, Peoria.
A Peoria nonprofit said potential SNAP cuts may worsen food insecurity for low-income families and cause a rise in clients at its biweekly food pantry, which has already seen a 20-30% increase.
Community Impact Director Nate Palm warned that previous benefit reductions left many residents more dependent on the pantry for help.
Peoria’s popular Riverfront Market returns this weekend with over 115 local vendors offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods in downtown Peoria.
The outdoor market runs every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon until the end of September—longtime manager Sharon Gramm, who has overseen it for 20 years, leads the event.
On May 20, the Peoria County Grand Jury indicted 17-year-old Skylar Jordan for RICO and unlawful use of weapons after linking him to the violent street gang known as the Snakes—he is now in custody and will face trial in adult court.
A judge ordered that Titus Alexander and Mitchell Smith stay in jail pending trial for alleged spa robberies in Peoria, Dunlap, and Jacksonville — they face a pretrial hearing on June 5.
Corn Stock Theatre announced that its first four summer productions will be held at Dunlap High School while its traditional tent at Bradley Park is under renovation — the lineup includes '9 to 5: The Musical' set to start May 30, 'Pride & Prejudice,' 'The Wizard of Oz,' and 'A Few Good Men,' with 'Oklahoma' returning to Bradley Park.
Illinois Central College is helping students find new housing after WoodView Commons closed due to repair needs and cash flow issues.
Staff are partnering with local providers such as Methodist College Apartments + CityLink to offer alternative beds and transportation for displaced students this fall.
Renovations on the Peoria County Courthouse Plaza will begin Tuesday, May 27 to update the public space in front of the courthouse.
A state bill would classify attacks on reproductive clinics as terrorism, and Planned Parenthood Illinois supports the proposal to protect clinic access and patient care.
The measure comes as the Knoxville Avenue clinic in Peoria, which was firebombed in January 2023 and reopened in June 2024, faces ongoing repairs while lawmakers have until May 31 to act — a move aimed at strengthening safety for providers and patients.
Health officials confirmed testing has identified a rabid bat in Peoria County and warned anyone who came in contact with it to seek careful advice and call PCAPS (3096722440) for guidance.
The warning reinforces the need to promptly address any bat exposure to prevent illness.
Revel in Red Concert
7-10 p.m. — The Putt Club East Peoria — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of high-energy rock anthems under the stars with Revel in Red.
Mini Mushroom Fairy House Clay Class
12-1:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $35 — Create your own whimsical mini mushroom fairy house in this fun, all-ages clay hand-building workshop.
Bubble Bowl Clay Hand Building Class
12-1:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Cost not specified — Create a unique bubble bowl in a fun, beginner-friendly clay class for all ages.
Last Light Acrylic on Canvas
5:30-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee applies — Unleash your creativity by painting a succulent masterpiece with friends and step-by-step guidance.
Fused Glass Mushrooms Workshop
6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee required — Learn to craft whimsical fused glass mushroom lights in this hands-on creative workshop.
Beautiful Bonsai Acrylic Painting Class
5:30-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Supplies included — Unleash your inner artist while painting a stunning bonsai to take home.
Stretch and Sculpt: Yoga and Planter Workshop
11:00 AM – 1:15 PM — The Clay Den — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a fusion of yoga and hand-building clay planters for a creative and relaxing experience.
Golf in the Pathway Ministries Golf Outing
8 AM – 5 PM — Metamora Fields Golf Club — Tee times available — Enjoy a day filled with great golf amid scenic views.
Teen Pottery Summer Camp
9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — The Clay Den — No experience needed — Explore pottery with hand-building and wheel throwing techniques during this creative summer camp for teens.
Quad Cities River Bandits vs. Peoria Chiefs
6:35-8:05 p.m. — Dozer Park — Check out an exciting Minor League Baseball game featuring local teams in action.
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