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WVLI News Update

WVLI News Update

Written by: WVLI Podcast Network
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About this listen

Stay informed with "WVLI News Update", the podcast that reports on local news stories with expert analysis and engaging commentary. Join Rob West, as he explores the political, economic, and social factors shaping the Kankakee area. Listen everyday, at your convenience, for all your local news.


Subscribe to WVLI News Update podcast, or listen at wvli927.com and click On-Air. New episodes drop every morning! It’s all part of the new WVLI Podcast Network.

© 2026 WVLI News Update
Politics & Government
Episodes
  • 7-Brew Coffee Confirmed for Bradley, Kankakee Gun Arrest, and Manhattan Wine Bar Fire - Tuesday, February 10th, 2026
    Feb 10 2026

    In this edition of the WVLI News Update, Rob West covers a series of developing stories affecting Kankakee, Bradley, and the surrounding Will County area. The update begins with details regarding a weekend arrest in Kankakee following a dispute between neighbors involving a firearm and an early morning fire that caused damage to a local wine bar in Manhattan.

    Local development takes center stage as official plans are shared for a new 7-Brew drive-thru coffee stand in Bradley. Listeners will hear the specific location and the projected opening date for the franchise. Additionally, the episode provides a breakdown of the Village of Bradley’s 2025 financial audit, highlighting the current state of the general fund and local pensions.

    The report also includes:

    • Details on a drug-related arrest involving a delivery service incident from late last year.
    • A summary of a fatal two-vehicle collision in Jasper County, Indiana.
    • Updates on the appointment of a new Village Administrator in Elwood.
    • Governor J.B. Pritzker’s latest comments on state incentives for a potential Chicago Bears stadium.
    • A look at the Route 66 Centennial celebrations and grant funding for Illinois tourism.

    The update concludes with the latest in regional sports, including the Bulls' recent performance and the start of spring training for Chicago baseball. Listen to the full episode for the complete details on these stories and more.

    Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

    Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

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    8 mins
  • Plea Deal in GCMS Case, Jail Smuggling Plot, and Local Development Grants - Monday, February 9th, 2026
    Feb 9 2026

    In today’s WVLI News Update with Rob West, we cover several developing legal stories and significant local infrastructure advancements across the region.

    The program begins with an update on a high-profile case involving a former Gibson City Melvin Sibley educator. Court records indicate a major shift in the legal proceedings following an investigation that originated last March. Meanwhile, in Jasper County, authorities have detailed a sophisticated attempt to smuggle contraband into the county jail and the subsequent recovery of evidence related to a separate burglary.

    In Kankakee County, a jury has reached a verdict in a weapons case involving a local resident, while city officials move forward with two major community enhancements. Learn about the latest funding milestones for the Riverfront Trail project near Fisherman’s Park and the upcoming bidding process for the Harbor House Emergency Homeless Shelter expansion.

    Finally, the report addresses a specific "illness" impacting national productivity today and provides a comprehensive look at the Seahawks’ latest victory and the upcoming schedule for the Bulls, Blackhawks, and Fighting Illini.

    Listen to the full episode for in-depth reporting and specific details on these stories.

    Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

    Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

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    6 mins
  • Man Walks Into Bar with Crossbow and Other Local Stories - Friday, February 6th, 2026
    Feb 6 2026

    In this episode of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West provides essential updates on local legal proceedings, community safety, and upcoming weekend events across Kankakee County.

    The episode begins with the details of a major conviction following a 2022 shooting incident in Kankakee. Listen to find out the specific charges filed by the State’s Attorney and the significant prison sentence the defendant now faces. In a separate law enforcement update, several juveniles were recently apprehended during an early morning traffic stop—find out what authorities discovered in the vehicle that led to multiple arrests.

    As we head into Super Bowl 60 weekend, the Kankakee County Sheriff's Department joins the episode to share a vital message regarding road safety and responsible celebration. Plus, get the latest information on early voting for the upcoming March primary, including where to find specimen ballots and what documentation you might need before heading to the polls.

    Other highlights from this episode include:

    • The status of a controversial education bill in the Indiana legislature.
    • An unusual incident involving a crossbow on North Hobbie Avenue.
    • Reports of a physical altercation in Pembroke Township.
    • A guide to family-friendly weekend activities, from planetarium shows to local community celebrations.
    • A full sports update featuring the Bulls, Blackhawks, and the start of the Winter Olympics in Italy.

    Hear the full stories and stay informed on everything happening in your community by listening to the complete episode.

    Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

    Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

    Show More Show Less
    8 mins
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