Good morning, Peoria.

A group of kids from Peoria is hosting the Kickin’ Cancer in the Knolls Lemonade Stand today from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hollyridge Circle and Bigelow Street to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; they had raised over $37,000 by July 24 and now hope to reach $50,000 to help pay for treatments.

Boyd Gaming CEO Keith Smith said on an investor call that work on a new replacement for the Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino in East Peoria may begin next year as final designs and regulatory approvals are pursued—Peoria city leaders are calling for the project to be moved across the river per a 1991 agreement.

Peoria International Airport set a record in June with 78,892 passengers, surpassing the prior high of 72,774 from May and marking a 20% increase over last June.

The airport’s growth comes from added flights to Denver by United Airlines+ a 22.5% jump in overall seat capacity.

Peoria Police arrested 22 year old Jyvonnie Williams Friday morning for first degree murder in connection to a fatal shooting on the South Side on August 30th, 2023—officers reported that six victims were shot and a 16 year old, Antonio Walker, died from a gunshot wound in October.

Peoria International Airport broke its June monthly passenger record with 78,892 travelers, a 20% increase from June 2024 that beat the previous May record.

The airport said the record and recent high counts set the pace for ending 2025 with its highest-ever passenger volume + improved capacity across all carriers.

Peoria’s General Wayne A.

Downing International Airport set new monthly passenger records by closing June with 78,892 travelers—a 20 percent rise from last June. Airline seat capacity grew 22.5 percent year-over-year as United, American, and Allegiant increased flights to support stronger service in the region.

Peoria City Manager Patrick Urich said the city is discussing plans to add an amphitheater to its $25 million to $30 million riverfront overhaul project.

The venue, which was dropped from Washington, will be considered by the Peoria City Council in September — it is planned for the grassy area north of the Murray Baker Bridge near Peoria RiverPlex.

Drivers on Interstate 74 near Peoria will notice that the 55 mph zone extends one mile further as the Illinois Department of Transportation moved the speed limit sign from the curve near Pinecrest Drive—where crash data showed more accidents on wet pavement—to give drivers more time to slow down. Officials say they are considering additional improvements to reduce accidents.

Organic Vase Clay Hand Building Class

12-2 p.m. — The Clay Den — $40.00 — Create a unique organic bud vase in this hands-on clay workshop perfect for flower displays.

Wheel Thrown Chip and Dip Dish Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a stylish chip and dip bowl from start to finish with no prior experience needed.

Clay Wreath Hand Building Class

5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $35.00 — Create a personalized ceramic wreath using slab-building techniques in a fun and creative class.

Bread Pan Clay Hand Building Class

5:30-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — Cost included — Create a handmade bread pan using fun clay techniques and personalize it with your choice of glaze.

Tissue Box Clay Hand Building Class

12-2 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create your own custom tissue box cover in this fun and hands-on clay class.

Wheel Thrown Chip and Dip Dish Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a stylish chip and dip bowl from scratch with no prior experience needed.

Jurassic Art Adventure

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 event fee per painter — Unleash creativity with dino-themed pottery at this family-friendly paint night.

Faux Stained Glass Workshop

3-6 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $50 — Create your own shimmering faux stained glass masterpiece using colorful crushed glass and resin.

Paint with Highland Cows

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $20 entry — Enjoy a mini moo party with Highland Cows while creating your own pottery masterpiece.

Shut Up & Write! Peoria

6-7 p.m. — Dang Boba, Poke & Banh Mi — Free participation — Focus and write with fellow creatives in a supportive community environment.