Mike Tomano and Rob West welcome Brandi Elder, President of the Bourbonnais Firefighters Association, to discuss a long-standing local tradition. Brandi explains the vital role the Association plays in supporting the fire district, including how community fundraising helps provide life-saving equipment for first responders.

The conversation focuses on the upcoming 39th Annual Sweetheart Dance, a signature event featuring live music and a highly anticipated auction. Mike and Rob also discuss the importance of specialized rescue tools, sharing a personal story about their impact in the field. Listen to the full episode to find out about a unique piece of music memorabilia up for auction, venue details, and how you can support the Bourbonnais Fire Department this weekend.

Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.

In this installment of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with Mayor Jeff Keast to discuss the latest developments and upcoming seasonal events in the Village of Bourbonnais.

The conversation begins with a recap of the ninth annual Chocolate Tour, a collaborative effort between the Village and the Bourbonnais Township Park District. Mayor Keast highlights the community impact of this sold-out event and explains how the proceeds are being utilized for local enhancements.

Listeners will also find updates on:

• Winter Recreation: Current hours and new location details for the synthetic ice rink at the Grove, including information on skate rentals.
• Community Planning: Details regarding an upcoming public workshop on February 19th for the Riverfront Park project, where residents are invited to share their vision for the area.
• Upcoming Traditions: Preview dates and registration information for the Polar Plunge and the annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner for seniors.

Tune in to the full episode to hear the specific times, locations, and participation details for these community initiatives and to learn how you can get involved in the future of Bourbonnais.

Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.

In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Denny Case sits down with local promoter James D. Jones, better known to the community as "Beatle James." The two discuss a significant milestone in the local entertainment scene: the 20th anniversary of the "All You Need Is Love" concert series featuring the renowned Beatles tribute band, American English.

James shares the history of his long-standing partnership with the band, reflecting on how a chance encounter in the mid-eighties blossomed into a two-decade tradition for the Kankakee area. The conversation explores the unique appeal of American English, noting their high-production approach that mirrors a Broadway performance through meticulous costume changes and era-specific musical sets.

Highlights from the Interview

• A Milestone Anniversary: James discusses the significance of reaching 20 years and why this specific concert series has become a staple of the Kankakee winter season.
• Venue and Logistics: Learn about the move to a new, larger location at the Quality Inn and Suites in Bradley and the special amenities available for attendees this year.
• The "Danger" Behind the Music: James reveals the lighthearted story behind his middle name and the personal connection his family has to the February concert date.
• New Faces and New Sounds: The episode touches on recent changes within the band, including the introduction of a new "Paul McCartney" and the impressive dedication required for the role.
• A Customized Experience: While many have seen American English before, James explains why this 20th-anniversary performance is designed to be unlike any previous show.

Event Details and Tickets

The concert is scheduled for Valentine’s Day, which falls on a Saturday this year, making it a central event for local celebrations. The evening features an opening set by local favorites The Champagne Experience, followed by a headlining performance by American English and an official after-party.

• General Admission: Tickets are available for $25.
• Outlets: Tickets can be purchased at the Quality Inn and Suites front desk, King Music in Bradley, or at the door on the night of the event.

Listen to the full episode to hear the surprising story of how the new lead singer mastered his instrument for the band, the specific details regarding the "All You Need Is Love" setlist surprises, and how to secure a special hotel rate for the night of the show.

Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.

In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with comedian and show promoter Bert Young to discuss the upcoming comedy showcase at The Dam Tap in Kankakee. With Valentine's Day approaching, Bert explains why local entertainment offers a superior alternative to the logistical challenges of traveling to downtown Chicago.

Bert shares insights from his ten-year journey in the comedy world, reflecting on how a single bad day at work led him to his first open mic. The conversation delves into the "science of entertainment," covering the importance of stage reps, the discipline of recording every performance, and how building a comedy set is similar to restoring a classic car.

Listeners will also get a preview of the talented lineup scheduled for the Valentine's Day show, featuring a diverse group of comedians who have performed at legendary venues like the Laugh Factory and Zany’s. Mike and Bert also exchange stories about their early days on stage, including the "deafening silence" that often greets a newcomer's first set.

Tune in to the full episode to hear:

• The specific lineup of comedians performing at The Dam Tap this February.
• Bert's detailed advice for young comics looking to find their voice.
• The story behind Mike Tomano’s first-ever stand-up performance in 1986.
• Information on how to secure pre-sale tickets for this local Valentine's Day event.

Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.

In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with Angela Morrey of the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County to discuss the region's evolving economic landscape. The conversation highlights the importance of local storytelling in attracting investment and the specific factors making the area a primary destination for both residents and businesses.

Morrey outlines the key industries driving the local economy—ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to transportation and retail—and provides insight into why the region holds a significant advantage over areas north of I-80. The episode explores the regional cost of living, the strategic importance of local infrastructure, and the availability of land for industrial expansion.

The discussion also delves into the robust workforce development ecosystem in Kankakee County. Morrey explains how partnerships with local universities, community colleges, and vocational centers are preparing the next generation for the workforce and offering career-change opportunities for adults through specialized training programs.

Additionally, Morrey shares her professional background and offers a preview of recent real estate developments and upcoming projects that signal continued growth for the community. Listen to the full episode to learn more about the data driving these trends and the specific resources available for those looking to do business in Kankakee County.

For more information and to access local economic data, visit kankakeecountyed.org or call 815-935-1177.

Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.

In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Denny Case sits down with Ed Sexton, the district manager for Jersey Mike’s, during one of the busiest weeks of the year for the restaurant industry. With the big game approaching this Sunday, the discussion focuses on how local fans can simplify their hosting duties while providing high-quality meals for their guests.

Ed shares insights into why catering is a preferred option for large gatherings and highlights the variety of offerings available, ranging from signature cold sub boxes to dessert platters. The conversation also clarifies the meaning behind the famous "Mike’s Way" preparation and explores some of the top-selling sandwich combinations that have made the brand a local favorite.

Listeners will also learn about the history of Jersey Mike’s and a specific promotional offer available for the Bradley-Bourbonnais location. Tune in to the full episode to get the exclusive promo code for your game day order and hear Ed’s professional recommendations for feeding a hungry crowd.

Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.

In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Denny Case welcomes back a familiar face with a brand-new title. Alexis McCullough, formerly Miss Kankakee’s Teen, visits the studio to discuss her recent crowning as Miss Chicago’s Teen and the journey that led her to success in the Windy City.

Alexis shares details regarding her performance at the local pageant, including the specific awards she secured and a surprising encounter with a former interviewer on the judging panel. The conversation also covers her transition into her final year of eligibility in the teen category and her upcoming goals for the Miss Illinois Teen competition in Marion this June.

Beyond the crown, the interview highlights Alexis’s deep-rooted commitment to service in the Kankakee Valley. As an Eagle Scout responsible for the Gold Star Families Memorial in Bourbonnais, she is now embarking on a major philanthropic mission with the American Heart Association.

Listen to the full episode to learn about:

• The personal motivation behind her $50,000 fundraising goal for heart health.
• How she balances a rigorous schedule of jazz band, wrestling, and academics at BBCHS.
• The creative ways she is involving the local community and athletic teams to support the Teen of Impact campaign.
• Her future aspirations for college and the Miss America stage.

Tune in to hear the inspiring story of a local leader making a significant impact both on the stage and in the community.

Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.

In this edition of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with Bradley Mayor Mike Watson to discuss essential updates affecting residents of the Village of Bradley.

The conversation covers several time-sensitive topics, including critical deadlines for the property tax rebate program and how residents can ensure they receive their checks before the window closes. Mayor Watson also provides details on an upcoming collaborative St. Patrick’s Day celebration organized alongside the Village of Bourbonnais, Bourbonnais Township, and the Bourbonnais Township Park District, specifically designed for area seniors.

Listeners will also hear about the newest addition to the village leadership team and receive a brief update regarding future development plans for the local water park and potential partnerships that could expand the project's footprint.

Tune in to the full episode to hear the specific registration dates, application deadlines, and the Mayor’s perspective on the growth of the Bradley community.

Get more from the WVLI Podcast Network! Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning. Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less.

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

The Voices You Trust, Beyond The Dial.