Good morning, Peoria.

The Emergency Expo will bring local families up close with first responders and their equipment in a stress-free setting.

Organized by more than two dozen emergency service agencies, the event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17 — from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie.

Local fundraisers for tornado relief have raised thousands on GoFundMe in Washburn after the June 11 storm caused extensive damage to homes and trees (one campaign raised $6,665 for a family farm while another gathered $2,640 to assist a home), offering vital support for rebuilding.

Central Illinois celebrates Juneteenth this month with several local events, including a self-guided tour at Springdale Cemetery, a June 18 open mic at Contemporary Art Center, and a June 19 celebration at Peoria Riverfront.

Other community events mark the occasion regionally.

Gas prices in Peoria fell by nearly 20 cents last week, reaching an average of $4.38 per gallon.

The decline reflects a significant shift for local drivers, with prices still 55.6 cents lower than a month ago.

Six schools in central Illinois have been invited by the state board to apply for Blue Ribbon School recognition that honors closing achievement gaps (50 schools are eligible) with applications due July 1 and 16 schools to be recognized this fall.

Peoria Public Schools are running the Waterford Ramp Up Summer Program from June 1 through July 10 to help incoming kindergarteners boost reading skills with daily 15-minute instruction — a pilot last summer showed 91% meeting or exceeding national averages.

Illinois residents can access over 50 free online databases for research and education through the new IRIS program announced today by the Secretary of State (available at local libraries and the state library website).

Peoria Public Works are clearing fallen trees and limbs from streets and sidewalks after last week's heavy rain and severe thunderstorms.

Cleanup will continue over the next few days (residents may report blockages via phone or email).

Banks and the USPS will be closed on Juneteenth, Friday, June 19 (FedEx and UPS will operate normally) as the state observes the holiday and state employees have the day off.

Most banks and the USPS will be closed in observance of Juneteenth on Friday, June 19 while FedEx and UPS will operate as usual and the stock market will not trade.

The state holiday honors the end of slavery and allows time for reflection.

Peoria County and its Health Department will take over Heart of Illinois United Way’s Home for All Continuum of Care program to help homeless residents when the transition begins July 1 — a move supported by a $183,590 funding allocation and a HUD grant for food insecurity services.

Teen Pottery Summer Camp

9 AM – 12 PM — The Clay Den — Registration required — Unleash creativity at a hands-on pottery camp for teens with fun projects and wheel throwing.

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.

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.

Kids’ Night Out: Kpop Demon Hunter

5:30-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Snacks included — An exciting evening of K-pop themed art, movies, and vibrant activities for kids aged 6 and up.

Fused Glass Geese

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Create a whimsical fused glass goose garden in this beginner-friendly class.

Father's Day Paint with Goats!

11 a.m. — Art at the Bodega — Tickets from $10 — Celebrate Dad with goat interactions and a chance to unleash your creativity on canvas.

Beginner 6 Week Wheel Throwing Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $285 — Dive into pottery with a hands-on wheel-throwing course perfect for all skill levels.

Peoria City vs. FC Ambush

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Shea Stadium — Tickets required — Catch local rivals in an exciting USL League Two match-up at Shea Stadium.

Space Explorers Kids Pottery Summer Camp

9 AM – 12 PM — The Clay Den — $135 — Blast off into creativity with a fun 3-day pottery camp exploring outer space themes through clay.

Plant Bingo Painting Party

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 Ticket — Enjoy a creative twist on bingo with real plant prizes and a pottery painting session.

Date and Create: A Clay Hand Building Date Night

5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Ticket price includes materials and a charcuterie plate — Enjoy a creative evening making clay projects together in a fun, hands-on setting.