Good morning, Peoria.

Folepi’s America 250 Ornament Hunt began yesterday in East Peoria to honor the nation’s 250th birthday — clues are issued each Monday at 8:00 a.m. on the City’s Facebook page and the Festival of Lights accounts.

At the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV honored Fulton J.

Sheen, noting his beatification will be held on Sept. 24 in St. Louis; later, Monsignor Landry thanked the pope and visited Sheen’s tomb in Peoria (a nod to local roots).

GasBuddy reported last week that Peoria’s average unleaded price dropped by over 8 cents—more than 15 cents lower than a month ago—with AAA Illinois listing prices one penny higher and gas ranging from $4.49 to $5.09 per gallon.

Community organizations with Peoria Public Schools partnered with the state board to offer free breakfast and lunch to students this summer.

Meals are provided at summer camps and on-site at schools to help ensure every child gets essential nutrition + support for summer enrichment.

Illinois lawmakers passed a bill allowing high school students to substitute two years of career technical education for the foreign language requirement— an initiative praised by the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.

The measure is expected to broaden access to high-demand technical careers for students.

Orangetheory Fitness offers new Premier members one month of unlimited classes for $99 during June.

This summer deal, available until Tuesday, June 30, gives locals a chance to try coach-led workouts (suitable for all fitness levels) at a nearby studio.

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.

Paint Nite Creative Event

7-9 p.m. — Kickback On Fulton — $45 — Unleash your inner artist while sipping drinks and creating beautiful art with friends.

Live Concert: Redferrin

7-9:30 p.m. — Crusens Farmington Rd — $25-$50 — Enjoy an electrifying night with Redferrin and Shaylen at this lively music venue.

Under the Sea Kids Pottery Summer Camp

9 AM – 12 PM — The Clay Den — No cost listed — Explore ocean magic through pottery with creative clay projects for kids aged 7 and up.

Live at the Five Spot: John Miller and the Romaniacs

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria — $8-members, $12-nonmembers — Experience the vibrant sounds of Gypsy jazz and enjoy a fun night of music with John Miller and the Romaniacs.

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.