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🌱 Patch AM: Which Peoria student is headed to Atlanta after this skills showdown?

Also, don't miss Knoxville Ice Bears at Peoria Rivermen on the Peoria Patch calendar

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Hello again Peoria! We’re bringing you the latest town highlights. Don’t miss out, keep going! ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Which Peoria student is headed to Atlanta after this skills showdown?
  • Worried about winter shutoffs? See what protections Peoria customers have
  • How Peoria families can dodge flu, RSV, and COVID this holiday

Also on today's calendar: Wisdom for a New Earth - December Spiritual Activation Event and 8 more events.

Find out what's happening in Peoriafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: I once read a book about anti-gravity. 🤔 (Answer below!)

From our Partner
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Find out what's happening in Peoriafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Weather forecast:

  • Friday: Cloudy and cold, with a high of 29 and low of 7 degrees. ⛄️ Brr!
  • Saturday: Frigid with snow, 1-3", temps: high: 10, low: -10.
  • Sunday: Mostly sunny and frigid, with a high of 7 and low of -3 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Peoria students compete in Amazing Shake competition (25newsnow.com) — Peoria Public Schools just wrapped up a three-day Regional Amazing Shake competition where 140 students practiced real-world communication and professionalism skills with local leaders. Eighth grader Delilah Lawson from Rolling Acres took top honors and will represent Peoria at the Global Amazing Shake in Atlanta this March, showcasing how local students stack up on a national stage.
   

2. Illinois utilities limited from disconnecting during winter months (wgntv.com) — Peoria residents who rely on gas or electric heat are protected from most utility shutoffs during winter, especially when temperatures hit 32 degrees or below. The Illinois Commerce Commission outlines when disconnections are limited, who qualifies for extra protections, and how LIHEAP and payment plans can help. Locals behind on bills are urged to contact utilities and apply for assistance.
   

3. Stay safe from flu, RSV, and COVID-19 this holiday season (centralillinoisproud.com) — Peoria health experts are warning residents to brace for a seasonal spike in flu, RSV, and COVID-19 as families gather indoors for the holidays. OSF Healthcare’s Dr. Brian Curtis urges updated vaccinations, masking when sick, and extra caution around kids, seniors, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions. He also stresses sleep, healthy eating, and exercise to better withstand illness.
   

4. Extra Effort: Three-sport athlete Chloe Eeten also busy volunteer at Illini Bluffs (centralillinoisproud.com) — A busy Illini Bluffs three-sport athlete is also regularly volunteering in Peoria, including serving meals for families staying near the hospital. From organizing a pink night that raised $3,000 for cancer research to local food drives in Glasford and Mapleton, she’s balancing sports, school, and year-round community service.
   

📸 Around Peoria

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Peoria

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📣 Peoria Shout Outs!

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🗓 Events Nearby

Have we missed something on our calendar? Add an event yourself! As always, before attending confirm event details to ensure accuracy.

Want to see your business here? Click here to connect with local customers.

💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Reminder: Food Pantries Open Thursdays
    THURSDAY Dream Center Peoria 714 Hamilton Blvd., Peoria 309-676-3000 Clothing pantry 1st Thursday of the month from 9am-12pm (can be accessed… (Nextdoor Bournedale)
  • Good Evening Neighbors.
    I see on here frequently about having to give your best friends away, your dogs. It's got to be hard to give your dogs away after having them for… (Nextdoor Glen Avenue)
  • This year, the Peoria Police Department is joining the Illinois State Police to ensure holiday travelers are buckled up and driving sober with a ... (X: peoria_police)
  • 12/11/2025 | 8 am Snow Preparation Update from Public Works (X: CityofPeoria_IL)
  • Molly Maid posted a job opening for House Cleaner in Peoria. Apply here.
  • Burlington posted a job opening for Seasonal Retail Stocking Associate - Part Time in Peoria. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Peoria here.

Ok Peoria! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I couldn’t put it down.
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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