Good morning, Peoria.

Neighborhood House has paused the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program due to delayed funding from the Central Illinois Agency on Aging and asks seniors with market coupons to hold onto them until funds resume.

The Peoria Friendship House food pantry is closed because its shelves are empty and it is seeking donations of non-perishable food dropped off at 800 North East Madison Ave.

Daniel N. Pace, 43, was sentenced on July 9 to 60 years in prison for setting his girlfriend on fire nearly three years ago (burns covered 30% of her body and caused long-lasting hardship).

John Timothy Jr., 41, was found guilty of leaving the scene of a fatal hit-and-run in South Peoria in August 2023 that claimed the life of 28-year-old Akeem Alexander — his sentencing is set for September 17.

A Peoria County judge ordered 17-year-old Lamar Cagle to remain in custody on first-degree murder charges after he was arrested last week in connection with the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Teron M.

Scott Jr. in South Peoria.

On Wednesday at the annual fair, Peoria County students showcased projects as part of the nationwide 4h program that teaches learning by doing.

The program encourages youth to explore their interests—such as junior superintendent Caitlin Murphy who aims for a career in animal sciences—and local extension offices provide enrollment details.

Local organizations have stepped up for the back-to-school season in Peoria by offering school supply giveaways that include clear backpacks for older students and extra items for younger ones.

Heartland Health Services hosted a Back to School Bash on July 9 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 2321 N. Wisconsin Ave while Dream Center Peoria will hold Backpack Peoria on July 26 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 714 Hamilton Blvd.

Home for All Continuum Care saw $26 million cut from the Home Illinois initiative that funds its court-based rental assistance for those at risk of homelessness.

Executive director Kate Green warned the funding loss will likely increase client demand — shelter funds will remain unchanged.

Hope for Holly Benefit

A community wide benefit fundraiser to support Holly and her family in her cancer journey. We will be serving dinner, having a raffle and silent auction with many unique and hand made items and lots of activities for the kids.

Hope for Holly Benefit

A community wide benefit fundraiser to support Holly and her family in her cancer journey. We will be serving dinner, having a raffle and silent auction with many unique and hand made items and lots of activities for the kids.

Paint with Highland Cows

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $20 per person — Enjoy a delightful pottery painting session with charming Highland Cows and tasty refreshments.

Summer 3-Day Art Camp Week 5

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $165 per week — Enjoy creative beach-themed art projects in a fun summer setting.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — EastSide Centre — Limited spots available — Enhance your basketball skills with high-intensity training focused on scoring and ball handling.

Kitchen Dwellers Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Peoria Riverfront Park — $79-$124 — Enjoy a night of bluegrass featuring the Infamous Stringdusters and Leftover Salmon.

Wade Bowen Live Concert

6:00 – 9:30 PM — Crusens Farmington Road — $20 Tickets — Experience an exciting evening with Wade Bowen and support acts at this lively venue.

Velaris City of Starlight Canvas Class

5:30-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — All supplies included — Create your own painting inspired by the enchanting city from A Court of Thorns and Roses.

Argentine Tango Practica

7-9 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria — $5 entry — Weekly tango practica welcoming dancers of all levels to practice and improve their skills.

Summer Art Camp Week 6: Shark Week Theme

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — $165 — Dive into a fin-tastic Shark Week with creative art projects for kids.

Draped Floral Vase Workshop

5:30-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $48 for 8" vase — Create stunning fused glass flower vases in this hands-on class with expert guidance.