Daily
Peoria
Wednesday, August 13th, 2025
Good morning, Peoria. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 13th of August.
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Illinois State Board of Education is set to vote today on a new test scoring system to adjust cut scores for English language arts, math, science, and ACT exams for 11th grade; state superintendent Tony Sanders said the change aims to better reflect student progress—resetting the baseline for future comparisons. WMBD
- ➤ The Peoria Public Schools Board of Education delayed hiring the search firm From The Heart International Educational Services until Aug. 28 to review concerns raised about its premature posting and accuracy—board members and community members voiced worries over transparency and credibility during the meeting. Outgoing Superintendent Sharon Kherat will leave next June after 11 years with the district. WCBU
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Peoria City Council approved an inducement resolution to support a $14.1 million plan to convert old International Harvester buildings in the Warehouse District into 25 residences and commercial space using tax increment financing — the developer must resolve a court dispute over a construction contract before a redevelopment agreement is finalized. The project is expected to generate nearly $3.9 million in future property taxes for the city. 25 News Now
- ➤ Gov. JB Pritzker signed a law that will require police departments to check detailed work histories from previous employers before hiring officers in honor of Sonya Massey, who was killed in July 2024. The measure takes effect Jan. 1, 2026—serving as a lasting tribute to her memory. WMBD
- ➤ Illinois American Water updated Peoria City Council on its ongoing work to replace lead water service lines (tests in about 100 homes showed 14 with high lead levels) and said replacements will be prioritized for areas where levels exceed safe limits or where leaks occur. Peoria Journal Star
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The largest disc golf tournament in the world will start this Thursday in Peoria as over 2400 players from 46 states and eight countries compete at local courses such as Wildlife Prairie Park and Northwood Black in Morton — the event is expected to boost local businesses by $3 million. WMBD
- ➤ High school football fans in Peoria are voting for their preseason player of the year for 2025 — 12 candidates are on the ballot without affecting the official awards announced later. The poll runs until noon Friday, Aug. 15. Pekin Daily Times
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Mushroom Fairy House Clay Hand Building Class
5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Craft your own whimsical mushroom fairy house with step-by-step guidance and decorative flair.
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Bob Ross Wet-on-Wet Oil Painting: Enchanted Falls
9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — Supplies included — Learn Bob Ross techniques while creating your own serene masterpiece in a calming atmosphere.
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Popcorn Dish Clay Hand Building Class
1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Check online for fees — Craft your personal popcorn dish using fun clay hand-building techniques.
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Anime & Manga Club
4-5 p.m. — Peoria Heights Public Library — Free entry — Discuss manga and enjoy your favorite anime shows after school.
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6 Week Wheel Throwing Class
6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $275 — Unleash your creativity in this engaging pottery course designed for all skill levels.
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Peoria Irish Fest
All day — Peoria Riverfront Park — $12 Single Day Tickets / $30 Weekend Passes — Celebrate Celtic culture with music, dance, and whiskey tastings along the scenic riverfront.
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Alpacas and Clay Connection
12-2 p.m. — The Clay Den — $40 per person — Create a clay masterpiece while enjoying time with adorable live alpacas.
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Fruitful Fun – Watermelon Pottery Party
1:30-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 reservation fee plus piece cost — Enjoy a family-friendly watermelon-themed pottery painting experience with fresh treats.
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South Bend Cubs at Peoria Chiefs
6:35-8:05 p.m. — Dozer Park — Cost info not specified — Watch a thrilling Minor League Baseball matchup between local rivals.
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6 Week Wheel Throwing Class
6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $275 — Unleash your creativity with hands-on pottery techniques in this engaging course for all skill levels.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
We accept the love we think we deserve.
~ Stephen Chbosky
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