Good morning, Peoria.

Peoria will honor the late Dr. W.

Roscoe McCall with an honorary street naming ceremony at 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 22 at the corner of Columbia Terrace and North Street—selected for its connection to his former dental office.

Peoria County law enforcement leaders say the 1987 Juvenile Court Act is outdated for today’s serious youth crimes such as burglary, assault, and weapons violations.

Sheriff Watkins and State’s Attorney Jodi Hoos argue that longer detention periods — tougher consequences — could help reduce repeat offenses among young offenders.

The City of Peoria launched the Banners and Boxes Beautification Program that shows art by 21 local artists on banners and traffic cabinet boxes in downtown, the Warehouse District, and Sheridan Village—using existing street lights and metal boxes wrapped in vinyl.

The project, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, picked work from over 130 submissions and gave all artists an honorarium, with the banners set to remain until winter before storage and reinstallation in spring.

Ameren announced on Friday it will donate $4 million to agencies in Illinois and Missouri that help customers pay power bills (the funds will support those facing economic hardship).

Sixty-nine new medical students received their white coats at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria on Friday—marking their formal start as doctors by reciting the Hippocratic Oath.

Future pediatrician Jenna Dipkin said she knew she wanted to help since she was seven, and classes will begin Monday.

Peoria home inventory rebounded in the second quarter as days on market dropped from 32 to 18 and average prices rose from $173,000 to $203,000—officials urge buyers to get pre-approved to compete in a tight market.

The Peoria Journal Star released a detailed guide to the 2025 high school football season—covering team schedules, player rankings, and game previews.

Practices began on Aug. 11 and games will start on Aug. 29 in the local area.

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.

Anime & Manga Club

4-5 p.m. — Peoria Heights Public Library — Free entry — Discuss manga and enjoy your favorite anime shows after school.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Peoria Blues & Heritage Music Festival

Aug 29-30 — Peoria Riverfront Park — Tickets available — Celebrate blues music with notable artists like Gov't Mule and Ruthie Foster at this 35-year tradition.

Bob Ross Wet-on-Wet Oil Painting: Blue River

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — Supplies included — Learn Bob Ross techniques and create a serene masterpiece while enjoying a calming atmosphere.