Good morning, Peoria.

Dozens of people lined up last Saturday on NE Madison Ave for a food giveaway by Laborers Local 165 — offering eggs, frozen pizza, canned vegetables, and produce — as inflation and a government shutdown increased the need in Peoria.

The Peoria Friendship House food pantry was open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for families needing extra help.

At Hope Cupboard in Pekin, organizers said the pantry saw an unexpected surge of about 100 households—half of them first-timers—as families face cuts to food stamp benefits amid the federal shutdown.

They expect the line to double at Tuesday's event and rely on generous local donations to help meet the growing need.

The Illinois High School Association posted a full first round playoff schedule for high school football, with teams playing at the home of the better seed—256 teams qualified as the bracket lists matchups by class.

Championship games will be held on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29—fans can review the full bracket for details.

Peoria Police teamed up with OSF HealthCare’s Pharmacy on Saturday for National Drug Take Back Day— a twice-yearly event— to collect unused or expired medications at drop-off bins at the police station and on Glen Oak Avenue.

Frankenstein at Corn Stock Theatre

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

Halloween Wheel Throwing Party

6:30-8 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Spin spooky magic on the pottery wheel and create your own Halloween-themed masterpiece.

Thanksgiving Turkey Clay Hand-Building Class

1-3 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45.00 – $90.00 — Celebrate the season by sculpting your own clay turkey masterpiece for a unique holiday keepsake.

High Profile Athletes & Midwest Bucks 2026 7v7 Tryouts

5:30-7 p.m. — Peoria Stadium — Free entry — Showcase your skills in a competitive 7v7 football tryout event.

Foster Family Information Session

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Central Illinois Friends Community Center — Free entry — Discover the process of becoming a licensed foster family and support youth in need.

Textured Pumpkin Clay Hand Building Class

4-6 p.m. — The Clay Den — $35 — Get into the fall spirit while hand-building your own unique ceramic pumpkin.

Quad City Storm vs. Peoria Rivermen

7:15-9:15 p.m. — Peoria Civic Center — Enjoy a competitive ice hockey matchup between local favorites.

Spilled Tea Bookmark Crafting

1-2:30 p.m. — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Create whimsical bookmarks that express your love of reading with a fun spilled tea design.

Fused Glass Ornaments Workshop

1-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Varies by ticket — Create a beautiful fused glass Christmas ornament while enjoying a festive atmosphere and refreshments.

Board Game Night

6-9 p.m. — Border Brewing Co. — Free entry — Enjoy a night of social gaming and meet fellow enthusiasts in the community.