Good morning, Peoria.

After touring monuments in Washington, D.C., over 70 veterans received a warm homecoming Tuesday at General Wayne A.

Downing Peoria International Airport — greeted by friends, family and fellow service members. The next Honor Flight is set for September 8 and Operation Penguin for June 23.

Sophia’s Kitchen is partnering with Catholic Charities to get extra administrative help amid an 81% rise in demand + meals and pantries will continue at its Heart of Peoria location next to St. Joseph Church.

The ministry also plans a leadership change when director Claire Crone retires in August.

ALSAC (the local fundraising arm of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital) opened its new headquarters at 1320 W.

Commerce Street on Wednesday, May 27, providing a larger space for teams to grow and support its mission to save children's lives.

Peoria County deputy Jack Evans received the Hometown Hero Award on May 18 during the U.S. Freedom 250 celebration in Peoria + his brave actions during a January chase, when he was shot, earned him the honor from the Department of Justice.

The Peoria City Council approved funding measures for a new amphitheater at Festival Park—site work will be covered by the city and construction will be funded by a Hengst Foundation donation.

The $11 million project is slated to open next year.

The Cedar Street Bridge, carrying Illinois 8 and 116 over the Illinois River, will close for repairs + electrical work starting June 1 between Washington Street and Edmund Street; operations may resume mid-to-late August.

Drivers are advised to use alternate routes.

Peoria City Council approved a land swap with Peoria Public Schools to support a 200-home development at Expo Gardens — the city gains roadway access and frontage while the school district receives land west of Richwoods High School fields; the board will vote on the exchange on June 8.

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.

Halloween in May Clay Hand-Building Party

5:30-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Celebrate Halloween early by sculpting your own spooky creation in this fun clay party.

Mosaic Pollinator Watering Dish

1-3 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost for the class not mentioned — Create a beautiful glass and pottery mosaic watering dish to attract butterflies and bees to your garden.

Mythical and Magical Creatures Kids Pottery Camp

9 AM – 12 PM — The Clay Den — Cost TBA — Discover the art of pottery by sculpting fantastical beasts and magical vessels.

Fun with Slime Workshop

1-2 p.m. — Fondulac District Library — Registration required — Get messy and create your own slime in this hands-on class for kids aged 5 to 14.

Gnome Clay Hand Building Class

4-6 p.m. — The Clay Den — Includes materials and guidance — Bring your imagination to craft your unique gnome from clay.

Fused Glass Cactus Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Studio credit policy applies — Create a unique fused glass cactus in this beginner-friendly workshop.

Toast Plates and Toaster Clay Hand Building Class

1-3 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create adorable toast-themed clay pieces in this fun workshop.

4th of July Gnome Planter Clay Hand Building Class

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $40.00 — Create a festive gnome planter using clay hand-building techniques to celebrate Independence Day.

Beginner Wheel Throwing Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $285 — Immerse yourself in pottery with a 6-week wheel-throwing course designed for beginners and skill refiners alike.

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.