Good morning, Peoria.

Central Illinois veterans and their families were honored Saturday at the annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast at Laborers’ Local 165 union hall, where state Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth hosted the event to help veterans share their stories with others (a cherished local tradition).

A Drive for Miracles event at Jump Simulation next to the hospital raised $652,367 for OSF Children’s Hospital last Friday.

The radiothon on 93.3 The Drive, hosted by John and Nancy, showcased local support for vital care.

A fire caused by discarded smoking materials displaced four adults from a South Peoria home Friday afternoon at Antoinette and Laramie, where crews quickly put out the flames in about ten minutes — the Red Cross is offering temporary housing and no injuries were reported.

Former Peoria area Congressman Ray LaHood has been named Distinguished Director of the Edgar Fellows program + a bipartisan initiative that trains future state leaders; the nonprofit board recently revealed the 2025 cohort, including local leader Alex Carmona.

Pet owners in Peoria can shop for winter essentials such as heated beds, paw balm, and cozy jackets to keep their furry friends warm this season.

These products are available now online and at regional stores.

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.

Glass Blowing Ornaments Workshop

1-4 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $65 for three ornaments — Create beautiful glass ornaments in this fun and hands-on workshop.

Tiny Tidings Acrylic Painting Class

1-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Drinks available for purchase — Create a charming winter scene featuring a moose in a red scarf while sipping warm drinks.

Glass Blowing Ornaments Workshop

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $65 for three pieces — Create your own colorful blown glass orbs in a fun and guided workshop.

Santa Hat Votive Clay Hand Building Class

5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Create a charming Santa hat votive from clay while enjoying a festive atmosphere.

Jingle and Throw: A Holiday Wheel Throwing Party

6:30-8 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 registration fee — Experience a festive wheel throwing class and create your own holiday masterpiece.

Fused Glass Christmas Ornament Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Check website for pricing — Create beautiful fused glass ornaments perfect for holiday decor or heartfelt gifts.

Tic-Tac-Toe Board Hand Building Class for Kids

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create your own ceramic tic-tac-toe board and pieces in a fun, hands-on clay experience.

Squishmallow Clay Creation Class

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — The Clay Den — Cost not specified — Unleash creativity by crafting your own Squishmallow-inspired clay buddy in this fun hand-building class for kids.

Jingle and Throw: A Holiday Wheel Throwing Party

6:30-8 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Create your own festive pottery masterpiece in a fun holiday-themed wheel throwing class.