Good morning, Peoria.

Monday night the ELITE program leaders told the Peoria Public Schools board that their four-week W.I.N.N.I.N.G. initiative helps troubled 8th graders learn skills for high school — with students referred by schools and extra funding needed as the $31,000 district support falls short of the $49,000 annual cost.

State health officials reported 216 cyclosporiasis cases, including 18 hospitalizations (no deaths) as of Tuesday, July 14.

The CDC warns the parasite spreads through contaminated food and water and that symptoms can last from days to over a month, so residents should follow safe food practices.

Whisper & Shout: Open Mic for Poetry

8-10 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $5-$12 — Experience an inspiring night of poetry from diverse artists in a welcoming atmosphere.

Stoneware Glazing Class

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Unleash your creativity with hands-on stoneware glazing techniques to create stunning, functional ceramics.

Paws to Read Session 2

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Kids can read with friendly therapy dogs from the Peoria Humane Society to enhance their reading experience.

Ice Cream Social and Ceramic Bowl Painting

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 includes ice cream — Enjoy a creative afternoon painting your own bowl while savoring local ice cream.

Beginner 6 Week Wheel Throwing Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $285 — Dive into pottery and learn wheel throwing while creating functional art pieces.

3-Day Summer Camp: Week 6 - Summer Vibes

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — $185 per week — Explore creative projects in glass fusing, ceramic painting, and more with the Summer Vibes theme.

Under the Sea Pottery Summer Camp

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — The Clay Den — Check event page for costs — Dive into ocean-themed pottery creations designed for young artists aged 7 and up.

2026 River and Rails Festival - Thursday

Festival Hours — Three Sisters Park — Tickets support local non-profit — Enjoy live music, carnival rides, and food vendors in a vibrant summer celebration.

Clay Hand-Built Garden House Workshop

5:30-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Build a charming miniature garden house using creative hand-building techniques.

Christmas in July Hand Building Event

5:30-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — Cost varies — Get creative with festive clay projects in the sunshine and prepare for the holidays early.