Good morning, Peoria.

South Side Mission celebrated 100 years of service to South Peoria at the Civic Center on Monday night—volunteers, including longtime supporter Diane Pflederer who received the Good Samaritan Award, were honored for their dedication.

Executive Director Reverend Craig Williams said the organization will expand youth programs and open a men’s prison transitional home in coming years—ensuring its legacy continues.

More than 70 veterans will depart today from Peoria International Airport to visit the World War II Memorial and memorials for the Vietnam and Korean Wars in the nation’s capital.

They will return to Peoria at about 9:30 p.m.—the flight is made possible by a $70,000 Hy-Vee donation.

Peoria’s Greater Peoria Family YMCA is planning a new Wellness Center and YMCA in Elmwood that will offer fitness classes, family programs and senior activities for residents from Peoria, Fulton and Knox counties.

The $12.4 million project has raised about $9 million so far — teams must raise roughly $3 million more — and facility work is expected to start in the spring once fundraising is complete.

Peoria Liquor Commission unanimously recommended site approval for Palate Tasting Room at 820 SW Adams Street in the Warehouse District.

The business will open in early 2026 to sell beer and wine and offer alcohol lessons — final approval will come from City Council on October 28 and further permits are needed for serving hard liquor.

Peoria gas prices dropped by over 2.5 cents a gallon in the last week to average $3.28 on Monday according to GasBuddy, while the national average fell to $3.08.

On Saturday in Washington a temporary state historical marker was dedicated to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 1858 visit during his US Senate campaign, and the Tazewell County Clerk, who worked with the Illinois State Historical Society, said a permanent marker will be installed next week—tying the community to its historic roots.

Peoria Police Chief Eric Echevarria was honored by the Comptroller’s Office on Monday during Hispanic Heritage Month in Springfield; officials praised his leadership and real-world experience from his service in Peoria and beyond.

A Marine Corps veteran whose background—shaped by his Puerto Rican and African American roots—influences his focus on fairness and community programs, he was recognized for his impactful work.

Local officials say Illinois farmers can call the Family Farm Resource Initiative Helpline at 1-833-327-6767 for mental health support during the stressful harvest season—discussions are also underway about potential financial aid from the Illinois Farm Bureau.

Fused Glass Spider Dish Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee not listed — Create a durable 6-inch spider dish perfect for Halloween décor.

Haunted Hill & a Glass to Fill

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Drink included — Create a spooky Halloween painting while enjoying a glass of wine.

Swifties Night – New Album Release

6-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 event fee — Create art inspired by Taylor Swift while enjoying her greatest hits in a fun, creative atmosphere.

Textured Pumpkin Clay Hand Building Class

1-3 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create your unique ceramic pumpkin with fun textures for the fall season.

Whisper & Shout: Open Mic for Poetry

8-10 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $5-$12 — Experience a vibrant evening of poetry and community with diverse artists performing live.

K-pop Pottery Painting Night

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 entry — Create your own K-Pop inspired pottery while jamming to epic tunes and enjoying themed swag.

Moonlight Mischief Canvas Painting

6-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Wine purchase available — Enjoy a fun-filled evening painting a spooky cat under the harvest moon.

Zootober: Halloween Fright Fest at Peoria Zoo

6-9 p.m. — Peoria Zoo — $12 per person — Experience Halloween thrills with family-friendly activities and spooky fun after dark.

Boo-tiful Builds: Halloween Clay Workshop

3:00 – 4:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $35.00 – $40.00 — Create spooky Halloween-themed clay projects in a fun hand-building class.

Frankenstein at Corn Stock Theatre

7:30 p.m. — Corn Stock Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a captivating performance of the classic tale of Frankenstein.