Cassidy Waigand

3 weeks ago | pjstar.com | Cassidy Waigand

Think it looks hazy outside? You're not alone. Peoria air quality has reached a level that could impact anyone, according to meteorologist Alex Erwin, who works for the National Weather Service. He said people should work to limit the amount of time spent outdoors. Here’s what to know about the air quality in Peoria on Thursday, June 5. What is the air quality in Peoria, IL? The air quality in Peoria is currently listed as unhealthy.

3 weeks ago | pjstar.com | Cassidy Waigand

The National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research – known as the Peoria Ag Lab – will remain open and may even see growth, according to the office of U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen. A June 4 news release said the proposal for the administration’s Agricultural Research Service budget for fiscal year 2026 included “potential growth for the NCAUR with research expansion.” Congress must still make final funding decisions. The statement described the Ag Lab as the region’s largest federal employer.

1 month ago | pjstar.com | Cassidy Waigand

On Saturday, Chillicothe-based business SmokinGhost BBQ secured the top spot in the brisket category of the Kansas City Barbecue Society World Invitational Championship’s Wells Cup contest. The team received a perfect score of 180 in the category. The 7th annual World Invitational Championship was held in Lebanon, Tennessee, from May 23 through May 25. SmokinGhost BBQ was among 106 championship teams which faced off in the Wells Cup Contest.

1 month ago | pjstar.com | Cassidy Waigand

Patrons can enjoy a refreshing cocktail while sitting on the patio at Brienzo’s Pizza + Bar’s new Plaza West location – situated at 7713 N. Orange Prairie Road in Peoria. On May 5, the Peoria Liquor Commission unanimously voted in favor of a sidewalk café subclass for the storefront. The subclass allows establishments to serve alcoholic beverages to guests in an outdoor seating area. Co-owner Beau Landry said Brienzo’s has since received final approval from Mayor Rita Ali.

1 month ago | yahoo.com | Cassidy Waigand

On May 27, The Popcorn Shoppe announced the closure of its kiosk at Northwoods Mall. It described the space – which opened last October – as “an experiment” and said Sunday, May 25 was its final day. “Thank you for everyone that patronized the business at the mall,” the business wrote on Facebook, “and we have been so delighted to get our popcorn into the hands of so many new customers.”The shop’s Metro Centre location will continue to operate.