Levee Park Opens Splash Pad With Ribbon Cutting September 3

The East Peoria Community Foundation and the City of East Peoria officially dedicated and opened Levee Park and Splash Pad to the community at a public Ribbon Cutting on Tuesday, September 3. Read More »

Festival of Lights Season Approaches – Celebrating 41 Years

Welcome to the 41st Annual East Peoria Festival of Lights, one of the largest nighttime holiday festivals in the Midwest. What was originally planned as a one-time event, has grown into the award-winning festival we offer today. Read More »

Kiwanis Club of East Peoria Announces Decision to Dissolve

After nearly five decades of dedicated service to the community, the Kiwanis Club of East Peoria dissolved at the end of September and returned its charter within the Kiwanis International structure. Read More »

Tazewell County Bicentennial – Recognizing Tazewell County Clerks – Part 3

As Tazewell County approaches our Bicentennial in April of 2027, current Tazewell County Clerk John C. Ackerman and former County Clerk Christie A. Webb will be honoring and recognizing the previous 22 community leaders to have held this position. Read More »

TAZFEST 2025

TAZFEST ’25 drew an outstanding turnout, with more than 300 community members in attendance. The event, hosted by the Tazewell County TRIAD, highlighted critical issues affecting older adults while providing valuable resources and connections. Read More »

Scout On In Central Illinois – Scouting Is Always in Season

I’m not here to pit Scouting against sports or band or any of the other activities that kids get in to. Every one of those pursuits has its pros and cons. Every one has opportunities for young people to grow, make new friends, learn new skills, and become the best version of themselves. Read More »

Save the Date: East Peoria Chamber Annual Dinner January 29

Mark your calendars! The East Peoria Chamber of Commerce invites you to our Annual Dinner on Wednesday, January 29 at the Par-A-Dice Hotel, and trust us—you won’t want to miss it. Read More »

Why October Is the Perfect Time to Prepare Your Vehicle for Cold Weather

As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, October is more than just a beautiful month in Central Illinois—it’s also the best time to make sure your vehicle is ready for the cold months ahead. Read More »

Financial Focus® Financial Steps to Prepare for Alzheimer’s and Dementia

More than 7 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, according to a 2025 report from the Alzheimer’s Association. The emotional toll of watching a loved one struggle with the memory loss, depression, anxiety and cognitive decline is already overwhelming — but the financial burden can be significant too. Read More »

EPCHS’ Spooktacular – Saturday, October 25th

East Peoria Community High School’s Student Council is a vital group in the school that fosters school spirit, leadership, and community involvement. Read More »

East Peoria’s VFW

We are proud to celebrate the 94th annual East Peoria Veterans Day Parade located at the levee district. For nearly a century, our community has come together to honor our veterans, and with your support, we can continue this tradition. Read More »

Preparing For the Future: Clarifying Concerns About Prepaid Funerals

Prepaying funeral expenses can assist loved ones in fulfilling your final wishes and managing costs effectively. Nonetheless, individuals often have questions or concerns regarding prepaid funeral arrangements, and I would like to address these concerns to provide clear information and reassurance. Read More »

New and Notable at Fondulac District Library

The library has planned many frightfully fun activities throughout October! Enjoy a special storytime, “ride” a haunted roller coaster, or go on a library ghost hunt! Registration is not required for these spooky events. Read More »

In the Spotlight – Sutherland Ace Hardware Is One of a Kind

Mike Sutherland recalls growing up in East Peoria in the 60s when there were no less than 17 hardware stores in the city. Today there is only one. And he owns it. Read More »

Letter From the Mayor, John Kahl

Former Governor Jim Edgar was a true statesman who led a distinguished career in public service. He served the people of Illinois as a state representative, two terms as Secretary of State, and two terms as the 38th Governor of Illinois from 1991 to 1999. Read More »

The Impact of Small Businesses on the Community

Big economic news often grabs the headlines. But amidst the hoopla surrounding a new distribution warehouse, manufacturing plant, or national retailer, the quiet power of small businesses is fuel for the engine that drives the local economy forward. Read More »