Good morning, Peoria.

Easterseals Central Illinois will honor Caterpillar Inc. at its 2026 Tribute Dinner to celebrate the company’s long-term support through funding, volunteer work, and community leadership in disability services.

Ticket and sponsorship details will be announced early next year (offering more ways for Peoria residents to get involved).

Former 25News director Phil Supple died over the weekend from aggressive brain cancer & his decades-long career at local radio and television shaped a legacy of kindness and professionalism.

Peoria International Airport is preparing for busy Thanksgiving travel as around 32,000 passengers will depart and arrive through next Tuesday.

Airport director Gene Olson and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy advise travelers to arrive early—especially on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday—to reduce parking and flight delays.

Crittenton Centers will host its 42nd annual Stocking Stuffer Store event at Northwoods Mall from Dec.

4 to Dec. 14—where children 12 and under can buy low-cost gifts from $2 to $10 with personal shoppers helping them wrap and pay.

Developers led by Gerald Ritterbusch and partner Jeff Giebelhausen secured city council approvals for liquors licenses as part of a plan to expand Hoops Pub and Pizza and add two new eateries on Main Street near the historic Madison Theater.

The businesses are targeting a summer opening and may need an extension to complete redevelopment work - challenges that come with renovating older buildings.

Dr. Joshua Russell has been named the new artistic director of the Peoria Area Civic Chorale—he will lead the group in its cherished American Family Christmas concert this season.

He brings a strong background as a pianist, educator, and music scholar to guide the chorale's upcoming performances.

Families planning a movie outing this Thanksgiving in Illinois have several films to choose from with current showings including Wicked: For Good, while additional films such as Zootopia 2 will open later this week to offer more options.

New federal loan rules now limit higher borrowing only to degrees defined as professional, leaving Bradley University advanced nursing students with standard federal loan caps and possibly forcing them to use private loans.

Nursing officials—at a school with 323 undergraduate and 231 graduate students—say the change may slow the supply of advanced nurses needed in the area.

The 20th annual Kevin Brown Memorial Tournament of Champions began Tuesday, November 25th at Washington Community High School and will run through November 29th.

Peoria High is set to face Pasadena on Thursday, November 27th at 5:45 p.m. — part of a schedule featuring four divisions and teams from several states.

The Elite Chocolate Turkey 3 Mile Run

8 a.m. – 2 p.m. — RC Outfitters — $33.20+ — Start your Thanksgiving with a spirited 3 Mile Run or a 1 Mile Walk, featuring chocolate treats and community fun.

Black Friday Bodega Bash

9 AM – 2 PM — Art at the Bodega — $50 fill-the-bag — Enjoy holiday fun with swag bags, prizes, and festive treats.

Evansville Thunderbolts vs Peoria Rivermen

7:15-9:15 p.m. — Peoria Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Thunderbolts take on the Rivermen in this hockey showdown.

Thanksgiving Wheel Throwing Class

2-5 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 for one piece, additional creations for $15 each — Craft festive pottery while enjoying a playful Thanksgiving-themed class.

Crushed Glass Trees Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Create stunning crushed glass trees while enjoying a community art experience.

Glass Blowing Ornaments Workshop

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $65 for three glass pieces — Create unique blown glass ornaments in a fun, hands-on workshop.

Christmas Tree Fused Glass Dish Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Check website for pricing — Create a festive glass dish perfect for holiday treats and discover your artistic side.

Textured Clay Mug Hand Building Fundraiser

1-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — 10% of ticket sales support Toys for Tots — Create a unique clay mug while giving back this holiday season.

Santa’s Little Makers Clay Day Camp

12-3 p.m. — The Clay Den — Class fees apply — Kids create three unique clay gifts while experiencing the joy of giving this holiday season.

Family Fun Ornament Painting Party

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 per ornament — Paint holiday ornaments and create lasting family memories in a festive atmosphere.