Shows
This One Time in Kankakee"I planned a flash mob on the courthouse lawn."Jeff Cross isn’t usually a planner. But for his 30th wedding anniversary, he decided to go big. In this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, we hear the incredible true story of how a 1990s meet-cute at a Bourbonnais Blockbuster led to a secret flash mob in downtown Kankakee.Hear how Jeff organized 50 friends and family members, dodged suspicious bailiffs while sneaking around the Courthouse bushes, and used a "fake cake" to keep his wife from ruining her own surprise. It’s a story about love, logistics, and the community coming together on Court Street.
2025-12-1512 min
WVLI News UpdateFriday, December 12, 2025Emil Jones evades prosecutionState Senator Emil Jones the Third is striking a deal with prosecutors. The Chicago Democrat agreed to a deferred prosecution deal that will leave him with no conviction. As part of the agreement, he must admit to certain illegal conduct and pay a fine. Jones was set for retrial next month on bribery charges. His first trial in April ended in a mistrial after the jury couldn't reach a verdict on three criminal counts. Jones was accused of taking money from a red-light camera company executive to kill legislation requiring traffic studies for autom...
2025-12-1208 min
WVLI News UpdateSPECIAL REPORT: Village of Bradley Signs Deal for Mattel Water Park on I-57It is official: The Village of Bradley is partnering with global toy giant Mattel to bring iconic brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price to a new water park development along I-57.In this WVLI New Update Special Report, we sit down with Bradley Mayor Mike Watson to break down the massive sub-license agreement with Project Play Holdings LLC. Mayor Watson reveals how this partnership transforms the project from a local facility into a regional "Mattel Wonder" destination intended to compete with major hubs like...
2025-12-0906 min
This One Time in Kankakee"I covered my car completely in duct tape."It was the winter of 2001. The muffler had just fallen off, and the rust was setting in. But Nick Stalnos wasn't ready to give up on his 1993 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera. Instead, he grabbed his friends, bought every roll of silver tape he could find, and created a local legend.In this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, we sit down with Nick to hear the true story behind "The Silver Bullet." From delivering pizzas on Kennedy Drive to a hilarious run-in with Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White on I-57, Nick takes us back to a...
2025-12-0112 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, November 19, 2025Senator fires staffer who posed as lawyerA staffer of U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth is out of the job after being accused of posing as a lawyer for a man detained at an ICE facility. Capitol News Illinois obtained a letter Duckworth sent to the acting director of ICE on Monday, notifying him that Edward York had been fired. York was a constituent outreach coordinator in Duckworth's Belleville office. He was accused of misrepresenting himself as an attorney and falsifying an official form to visit and secure the release of a Southern Illinois restaurant owner detained by...
2025-11-1908 min
This One Time in Kankakee"My son, Mads Pomranky, was diagnosed with a rare form of Leukemia."What began as a routine trip to the pediatrician at Riverside Hospital quickly turned into a life-altering journey for the Pomranky family. In this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, host Jake LaMore sits down with local mom Jennifer Pomranky to share the powerful story of her son, Mads.Diagnosed with a rare form of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) at just five months old, Mads faced an uphill battle that required aggressive chemotherapy and a life-saving stem cell transplant. But just as a perfect donor match was found, the world shut down due to the COVID-19...
2025-11-1717 min
WVLI News UpdateSpecial Report: Talking Turkey with Sue Smith of ButterballIn this WVLI News Update Special Report, Rob West gets expert advice from Sue Smith, a 26-year veteran of the official Butterball Turkey Talk Line.Get ready to master your holiday meal as Sue, a registered dietitian and "Butterball University" graduate, shares invaluable tips to help you spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the day.In this episode, you'll get answers to all your biggest Thanksgiving questions, including:How to Host a Stress-Free Meal: The #1 tip for delegating tasks and letting family contribute.What Size...
2025-11-1305 min
This One Time in Kankakee"The Village of Bonfield Banned Rhummy."In the dead of winter 1938, the tiny village of Bonfield, Illinois, made national news for a bizarre reason: it banned the card game Rhummy. On this episode of "This One Time in Kankakee," discover the strange and true story of the "Rhummy Rebellion."Amid the Great Depression, Bonfield was known as a "sinless village" in Kankakee County, thanks to strict Blue Laws that forbade everything from liquor to dancing to playing baseball on Sundays. But when a group of housewives, calling themselves "rhummy widows," lodged a formal complaint, the town board added one more harmless pastime to...
2025-11-0313 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, October 29, 2025Legislators propose new taxesIllinois lawmakers are considering ways to fund Chicago-area mass transit agencies. State Democrats proposed several taxes to generate one-point-five billion dollars to help the CTA, Metra and Pace avoid a more than 200-million-dollar fiscal cliff next year. The bill includes an amusement tax on streaming services like Netflix, a surcharge on tickets for large concerts and other performances, and a so-called "billionaire tax." State lawmakers are wrapping up their fall veto session this week in Springfield.Crime Stoppers Tip of the WeekKankakee County Sheriff's Police are...
2025-10-2907 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, October 27, 2025Notable Night Sky NewsTime to find out what's going on overhead this week, with our Notable Night Sky News, here's Madeline Shepley, astronomy professor and director of the Strickler Planetarium at Olivet.Manteno Field FireManteno Fire Protection District Firefighters report a field fire in Rockville Township Friday afternoon. In a press release, firefighters say the fire involved a field of standing corn and nearby farms were called to help cut fire breaks into the fields to help with putting out the blaze. In all, a total of about 10...
2025-10-2707 min
WVLI News UpdateSpecial Report: Illinois State Rep. Jackie Haas on Fall Veto SessionIn this special report from the WVLI News Update, host Rob West sits down with 79th District State Representative Jackie Haas for an in-depth discussion on the key issues facing Kankakee County and the state of Illinois.Rep. Haas provides her perspective on the recent fall veto session in Springfield, explaining why a lack of action on certain bills—like those proposing new taxes to fund Chicago—can be a positive sign of ongoing negotiations.A major focus of the conversation is the dangerous intersection at Route 50 and County Line Road. Following more tragic fatalities, Rep...
2025-10-2307 min
This One Time in Kankakee"Jennifer Hudson came to see our musical."What happens when an EGOT winner and Chicago legend unexpectedly shows up to your community theater rehearsal? On this episode of This One Time in Kankakee, we hear the incredible true story from director Andrew McBurnie about the night Jennifer Hudson visited Bourbonnais to see Acting Out Theatre Company's production of Godspell.Andrew shares a behind-the-scenes account of how a passing joke among the cast turned into a secretive, last-minute confirmation during the most stressful week of the show. Hear about the moment the cast realized an A-list celebrity was in their small audience, the invaluable advice...
2025-10-2015 min
2025-10-0803 min2025-10-0702 min2025-10-0602 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, October 6, 2025Missing Will Co child found, safeWill County Sheriff's Police report a child reported abducted Sunday morning has been found safe. In a press release, Wil County Sheriff' Mike Kelley says it was just before 10:30 yesterday morning when deputies were called to the 19-thousand-500 block of West Goodwin Road for a report of domestic battery and child abduction. When they got there they were told 32-year-old Carl E. Ellis had allegedly battered a woman and took off with their child. An AMBER alert was issued and Ellis car was spotted in Kankakee County, where local authorities pulled...
2025-10-0607 minThis One Time in Kankakee"I was run over with a tractor."Welcome to the premiere episode of This One Time in Kankakee, the podcast that uncovers the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Host Jake LaMore kicks off the series with a deeply personal family legend that has been told for nearly 90 years.Travel back to a hot summer day in 1936 Manteno, Illinois. At just three years old, Jake's grandfather, Franklin Weber, was accidentally run over by his father's tractor. What follows is a miraculous story of survival, featuring an incredible feat of paternal strength, a look at 1930s medicine at the St. M...
2025-10-0609 minThis One Time in Kankakee"A bank robber called me."What happens when the subject of your news report calls you directly? In this episode of "This One Time in Kankakee," host Jake LaMore sits down with veteran Kankakee radio news director Rob West (WVLI, WFAV, River Country) for a story that blurs the line between journalism and a real-life crisis negotiation.In 2008, after reporting on a bank robbery in Bourbonnais, IL, Rob received a shocking call on his personal cell phone. On the other end was the robber himself, who wanted to tell his side of the story because he trusted Rob from listening...
2025-10-0614 minThis One Time in Kankakee"I kidnapped a plaster cow from Perry Farm Park."Every town has landmarks, but what happens when a group of bored teenagers decides to relocate one? In this episode of "This One Time in Kankakee," we bring you the legendary story of a crime that wasn't the crime, and how a 500-pound plaster cow ended up in a suburban living room.In 2008, Shane Whitlock and his friends, armed with a "borrowed" shopping cart and a severe case of late-night boredom, set their sights on the iconic cow statue outside the Exploration Station Children's Museum at Perry Farm Park in Bradley, IL. What...
2025-10-0612 min
2025-10-0403 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, October 3, 2025Fire damages Kankakee HomeAn electrical issue is thought to have been the cause of a fire in the 700 block of Wildwood Avenue in Kankakee overnight. Kankakee Fire Chief Brian LaRoche says the call came in just before 12:30 this morning and when firefighters got to the scene they found a small fire in one of the bedrooms of the home. The fire was quickly put out and reports say it seemed to have started in an electrical outlet. Damage from the fire was put at about 10-thousand-dollars, no injuries were reported, two people were displaced by the...
2025-10-0309 min2025-10-0303 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, October 2, 202521st Judicial Circuit elects new Chief JudgeThe 21st Judicial Circuit, which includes Kankakee and Iroquois Counties, will have a new Chief Judge at the start of the new year. It was announced yesterday that Chief Judge Thomas Cunnington will step down from that position and Circuit Judge Bill Dickenson has been selected to take over January 1st. The Chief Judge is elected by the judges on the circuit and are elected for two year terms. Each chief judge can serve no more than two consecutive terms before stepping down.Child Network...
2025-10-0207 min2025-10-0202 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, October 1, 2025One injured in Tuesday crashOne person was sent to the hospital following a three-vehicle crash on nine-thousand north at Career Center Road Tuesday morning. Reports say it was just after eight yesterday morning when a westbound car slowed to turn south onto Career Center Road and was hit from behind by a motorcycle which continued on and hit another car that was traveling eastbound through the intersection. The motorcyclist was taken to the hospital to be treated for serious injuries. There's no word of his condition. There were no other injuries reported in the crash.
2025-10-0107 min2025-10-0102 minThis One Time in KankakeeThis One Time in Kankakee: Stories That Shaped Our CommunityDiscover the heart and humor of Kankakee County in This One Time in Kankakee, a narrative storytelling podcast hosted by Jake LaMore, featuring unforgettable true stories from local voices. From a childhood memory of surviving a tractor accident, to a phone call from a bank robber, to the Perry Farm cow statue ending up in a living room—these are the moments that bring our community to life.Real people. Real memories. Real Kankakee.Listen to the trailer now and subscribe for new episodes wherever you get your podcasts. First three episodes premiere on Monday, Oc...
2025-10-0101 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, September 30, 2025Parole check nets Iroquois County Deputies two arrestsIroquois County Sheriff's Police report a pair of arrests. According to reports, deputies, along with members of the Iroquois County Probation Office were conducting a probation check at a home in Milford when a search allegedly turned up some drug paraphernalia and a pair of brass knuckles. Iroquois County Deputies say they arrested 42-year-old Dustin Lundberg on possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a weapon by a felon charges. Deputies also charged 31-year-old Katelynn Frye with possession of drug paraphernalia. Kankakee woman struck, k...
2025-09-3006 min2025-09-3002 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, September 29, 2025Iroquois/Ford Counties issue burn banThat burn ban is back in effect in Iroquois County. In a press release, the Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency, Easter Illinois Mutual Aid Fire Association and the Iroquois County Board last night, re-issued that burn ban effective at 12:01 this morning. The ban asks those living in Iroquois County to refrain from any type of open burning or use of fireworks. Those caught ignoring the ban could be issued a 100 dollar fine that would double with the second violation.Ford County issued a similar ban late last week. Both...
2025-09-2906 min2025-09-2902 min2025-09-2702 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, September 26, 2025Sprout baby food recall expandedSprout Foods is expanding its recall of baby food pouches due to lead concerns, It's recalling additional lots of Sprout Organics Sweet Potato Apple and Spinach pouches. The baby food comes in three-and-a-half ounce pouches. Sprout initiated the recall after it found elevated levels of lead during routine testing. The product was sold online or at Walgreens in 28 states including Illinois. The CDC says there are no safe levels of lead and that even low blood levels can cause developmental delays, difficulty learning and behavioral issues in children.Drought concerns on th...
2025-09-2609 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, September 25, 2025Jasper Co Deputies look for missing personThe Jasper County Indiana Sheriff's Police are asking for help to find 49-year-old Garry Noe the third. Noe is considered homeless and had been living out of his pick-up truck in Remington, Indiana. Family members who have regular contact with Noe say they've not heard from him since September 15th. The last information Jasper County Deputies have is that he may have gone downstate on the 19th. A photo of him can be found on the Sheriff's Department Facebook page. They ask anyone with information on Garry Noe's where abouts c...
2025-09-2505 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, September 24, 2025• Kankakee City Police report an arrest in connection to a burglary to a home over the weekend. • Services have been announced for the Momence Junior High school student who passed away Friday. • Watseka City Council discuss the demolition the old Opera House. • Winner's for the Bourbonnais Township Park District's Scarecrow Contest have been announced. These stories and more on today's WVLI News Update!Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://pod...
2025-09-2407 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, September 23, 2025State Police re-open Momence Burger King murders caseIllinois State Police is asking for the public's help in solving a nearly 20-year-old double homicide cold case at a Burger King in Momence. Pam Branka and Paul Jones were both employees of the fast-food restaurant attached to the Circle K gas station on Gladiolus Street. In January 2007, police received a 911 call from the eatery. A female was heard screaming but unable to speak to the dispatcher. Police arrived and found Branka and Jones dead at the restaurant. Anyone with information is asked to visit the Illinois State Police Inves...
2025-09-2307 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, September 22, 2025Momence Police report child's deathCounselors will be available today at Momence schools, that after a Momence Junior High Student died Friday night. In a Facebook post, Momence Police say the student passed away sometime Friday evening, but provide no other details about the death.Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://pod.link/1843321847
2025-09-2205 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, September 19, 2025Dr. Hamdan named Riverside Foundation Samaritan of the YearThe Riverside Healthcare Foundation awarded its Samaritan of the year award last night. This year's winner, Dr. Joehar Hamdan said he was humbled to win the award. Dr. Hamdan is an oncologist with the Riverside Cancer Institute. Drought concerns returnWith several days without significant rainfall, drought concerns are starting to return to the area. The map released Thursday by the US Drought Monitor places all of Kankakee, Will, Grundy and Livingston Counties in the "abnormally dry" category. 95 percent of Iroquois Co...
2025-09-1907 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, September 18, 2025Senator Joyce reminds drivers to be careful during farm safety weekIt's Farm Safety Week in the State of Illinois. 40th District State Senator Patrick Joyce reminds drivers to be on the lookout as harvest season starts to ramp. Senator Joyce adds farm safety extends to the farmer in the field as well. Farm Safety Week in the State of Illinois runs through Sunday. First West Nile Virus death of the year recorded in ILThe Cook County health department is confirming the first human West Nile virus-related death in Ill...
2025-09-1807 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, September 17, 2025Crime Stoppers Tip of the WeekTime now for our Crime Stoppers Tip of the Week. With that, here's Kankakee County Sheriff's Department Chief Deputy Trent Bukowski. Tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous and could result in a cash reward. Farm Safety week continuesThis if Farm Safety Week in the State of Illinois, and as farmers gear up for the harvest season, Illinois State Police Trooper Jayme Bufford reminds farmers to do their part to be safe while traveling on area roadways. The State Legislature has designated this week as Farm Safety wee...
2025-09-1706 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, September 16, 2025Bourbonnais passes ordinance outlawing sale of certain drugsDuring last night's Bourbonnais Village Board meeting, trustees passed an ordinance outlawing the sale of Cannabinoid and Kratom products inside village limits. Village Attorney Patrick Dunn. Dunn says the ordinance will become law once it's published, which will be in the next 10 days.Also at last night's meeting, trustees granted a height variance to Faith Baptist Church so they can erect an 80 foot radio tower on their property Help on the way at Route 50 and 12k North40th District State Re...
2025-09-1608 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, September 15, 2025Sept 15-21 is Farm Safety Week in ILThis has been designated “Farm Safety Week” in the State of Illinois. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting says the idea is to call attention to the dangers of agriculture and what can be done to prevent them. Representative Bunting “Farm Safety Week” includes highway safety. Bunting adds farmers also need to keep an eye on their mental health during the stressful harvest season Former Gov Edgar dead at 79Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar is dead at the age of 79. His family announced hi...
2025-09-1505 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, September 12, 2025Two Bradley homes damaged by fireFire damaged a pair of homes in Bradley Thursday afternoon. Acting Bradley Fire Chief Jim Spoon says it was about 2:30 yesterday afternoon when firefighters were called to the 100 block of Quincy where they found fire that it had started on the back deck of one home and had already spread to a neighboring home where it traveled up the outside wall and into the attic. Chief Spoon says both homes are uninhabitable with nearly 100-thousand dollars worth of damage to the first home and about 75-thousand dollars worth of damage to...
2025-09-1206 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, September 11, 2025Representatives Haas and Bunting reflect on 9/11The Kankakee Area Chamber of Commerce held a legislative reception last night at the Kankakee Country Club. 79th District State Representative Jackie Haas and 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting were both on hand for the event. Today being the 24th anniversary of the 9-11 attacks in New York, we asked each of them for thoughts on the event. Statements from Representative Bunting and Haas. Some 90 or so people were on hand for last night's event. Haas attends legislative receptionThe Kankakee Area Chamber of...
2025-09-1108 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, September 10, 2025Bailey says he'll run againDarren Bailey is seeking a rematch with Governor Pritzker. The former Republic state senator is reportedly planning to run for governor of Illinois again next year. Cook County Republican Party Chairman Aaron Del Mar said he has agreed to be his running mate. A formal campaign announcement is expected later this month. Bailey lost to Pritzker in the governor's race in 2022.Search continues for Ford Co shooterA search continues for a man accused of shooting two officers in Ford County last month. State police say o...
2025-09-1007 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, September 9, 2025Judy Kilbride passesWord has reached the newsroom of the passing of Judy Kilbride. Kilbride, along with her late husband Gerry founded the Kilbride Family Foundation, a local not-for-profit. She was retired from the Bourbonnais Elementary School District where she had served as the Director of Student Services. Services have yet to be announced. She was 86 years oldRiver body identifiedThe body found in the Kankakee River back in June of this year has been identified. According to a press release from the Kankakee County Coroner's office, the man's...
2025-09-0907 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, September 8, 2025Notable Night Sky News for Sept 8thLet's find out now what's going on overhead this week. With our Notable Night Sky News, here's Madeline Shepley, Astronomy Professor and Director of the Strickler Planetarium at OlivetManteno Police investigate shots firedManteno Police are investigating after shots were fired in the Village Friday night. In a press release, Manteno Police say it was just before 11 Friday night when officers were called to the 100 block of East 2nd Street and spoke with a witness who said they'd heard multiple gunshots before...
2025-09-0806 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, September 5, 2025Fire destroys Bourbonnais eateryFire destroyed the Harolds Chicken location across from Olivet in Bourbonnais overnight. Bourbonnais Fire Protection Chief Jim Keener says firefighters were called to the scene just before two this morning when someone called in they'd seen smoke coming from the building. When they got there, firefighters found fire inside the building. Chief Keener says the building is a total loss. No one was injured battling the blaze, the cause of the fire is under investigation.Kankakee Police make arson arrestKankakee City Police have made a...
2025-09-0506 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, September 4, 2025Powerball jackpot rolls over....againThe Powerball jackpot is jumping to a staggering one-point-seven billion dollars. There wasn't a winner on Wednesday night of the one-point-four billion dollar jackpot, the fourth largest in game history. If you win, you can elect to receive annuity payments of over five-million annually for over 30 years, or take a one-time lump sum of 770-million-dollars before taxes. The next drawing is on Saturday.Will County Deputies investigate Crete Township shootingWill County Sheriff's Police are investigating after two people were found shot in a car in...
2025-09-0407 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, September 3, 2025Bourbonnais PD has new Patrol CommanderDuring last night's Bourbonnais Village Board meeting, Police Chief Dave Morefield swore in Brent Barrie as a new Patrol Commander in the Village. Also during last night's meeting, Chief Morefield noted the hire of a new patrolman, which brings the department up to full strength. Bourbonnais Village Board has first reading of Ordinance to outlaw certain drugs in the VillageThe Bourbonnais Village Board last night, heard the first reading of an ordinance that would outlaw Cannabinoid and Kratom drugs in the Village. County Co...
2025-09-0308 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, September 2, 2025Second property tax payment due this weekNow that Labor Day is passed, Kankakee County Treasurer Nick Africano wants to remind you that the second installment of your property tax bill is due this week. Africano says you can also pay your tax bill online if you like. He adds once this year’s taxes are paid and we hit the first of next year, you can register for another way to pay your property tax bill if you like. Africano points out that the only caveat is that there be enough money in the account to make...
2025-09-0205 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, August 29, 2025Tourism up in Kankakee CountyTourism in Kankakee County showed major returns in 2024. Nicole Gavin, Executive Director of Visit Kankakee County, breaks down the numbers for us. According to a press release sent by Gavin, visitor spending dipped slightly last year by one half of a percent but claims that's indicative of a strong and stable tourism sector. What to do around Kankakee County this weekendThere's plenty to do around Kankakee County this Labor Day holiday weekend. With a look at a few of the events, here's Nicole Gavin, Ex...
2025-08-2907 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, August 28, 2025Kankakee City Police make arrests in August 7th shootingKankakee City Police report a pair of arrests in connection with an incident earlier this month that sent two people to the hospital. According to reports, it was just after 11:30 in the evening on Thursday August 7th when officers were called to a report of gunfire at Crestlane Apartments. When they got there, officers say they found a large group of people outside the building and learned a woman and her nine-year-old sun had been taken to the hospital with gunshot wounds. On August 11th, City Police arrested...
2025-08-2807 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, August 27, 2025Crime Stoppers Tip of the WeekKankakee City Police are looking into a pair of robberies to pizza delivery people Saturday evening. With our Crime Stoppers Tip of the Week, withKankakee County Sheriff's Department Chief Deputy, Trent Bukowski. Tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous and could result in a cash reward. Tourism up in ILIllinois leaders are touting record-breaking tourism revenue last year. Governor Pritzker announced that Illinois welcomed 113-million domestic and international visitors who spent a record 48-point-five-billion-dollars in 2024. The tourism surge also led to a new all-time high in hotel tax...
2025-08-2705 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, August 26, 2025Powerball jackpot rolls over....again The Powerball jackpot rolled over again. With no grand prize winner on Monday night, the jackpot jumps to 815-million-dollars. The next drawing takes place Wednesday with the cash option just shy of 368-million-dollars.Kankakee house hit by gunfireJust after 1:30 Monday morning, Kankakee City Police were called to the 700 block of South Wall for a report of shots fired. When they got there, officers say they found gunfire damage to a house. Reports say nobody was injured by the gun fire and officers recovered a pai...
2025-08-2609 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, August 25, 2025CSL's plasma donation cite on Rte 50 not on closure listCSL Behring says their plasma donation center on Route 50 is not one of those scheduled to be closed by the company. Late last week it was announced Behring plans to make a 15 percent cut to its workforce and close of 22 of it's plasma donation centers in the U.S. In an email, CSL Behring representatives say the 15 percent reduction in workforce will be across their global business and won't target any one facility. The also confirmed the CSL Plasma Donation Center on Route 50 would remain open.
2025-08-2506 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, August 22, 2025Governor signs "Missing Persons Identification Act"A new Illinois law will create new guidelines for missing persons investigations. Governor Pritzker signed the Missing Persons Identification Act last week. The bill requires law enforcement to immediately take a report when they are notified of a missing person and enter it into the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System. The law also eliminates the practice of observing a waiting period before taking a missing persons report. It goes into effect January 1st of next year.What to do around Kankakee County this weekendLet...
2025-08-2207 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, August 21, 2025Drought concerns lessenThe latest map just released today by the US Drought Monitor shows significant improvement in drought conditions across the area. Today's map puts just over two percent of Kankakee County in the "abnormally dry" category and the rest of the county without any drought concerns at all. Today's map places pretty much all of Iroquois, Livingston and Grundy Counties in the "no drought concern" category, while 14 percent of Ford County is listed as in "moderate drought". Another 25 percent of Ford County is listed as "abnormally dry" and the rest of the county without any...
2025-08-2108 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, August 20, 2025Former O'Bama administration staff members call for fairer legislative maps in ILTwo bipartisan former Obama administration officials are pushing for fairer maps in Illinois' state legislative districts. Former U.S. Commerce Secretary Bill Daley and ex-Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood are leading an effort to establish a ballot initiative in 2026 to reform the redistricting process for state legislative map-making. The proposed constitutional amendment would establish a citizen-led committee to redraw the maps after the 2030 census. The latest attempt to make legislative maps fairer in Illinois follows the departure of Texas Democrats who spent two weeks in suburban Chi...
2025-08-2006 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, August 19, 2025Powerball rolls over againThe Powerball jackpot has rolled over once again. There was no grand prize winner on Monday night, pushing the already-massive jackpot up to an estimated 643-million dollars. Taking the cash option on that would net you nearly 291-million bucks. Of course striking it rich is anything but easy. Odds of walking away with all that money are roughly one in 292-million. The next drawing takes place Wednesday.Back to school bus safety reminderIt’s back to school time, and Officer Megan Lanie with the Bradley Police...
2025-08-1908 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, August 18, 2025Notable Night Sky NewsTime now to take a look at what's going on overhead this week. With a look at our Notable Night Sky News.IDOT looks for "snowbirds"It may be August, but the folks at the Illinois Department of Transportation are already thinking about winter. IDOT is looking for what they call “snow birds”, the seasonal employees that will work for IDOT either by the month or by the hour to help out with snow and ice removal this winter. IDOT spokesperson Maria Castaneda says you can appl...
2025-08-1806 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, August 15, 2025Documentary planned for Lane Bryant murdersA documentary is in the works about the 2008 Lane Bryant murders in Tinley Park. Filmmaker Charlie Minn is putting together a documentary titled "Who Killed These Women: The Tinley Park 5." No arrests have been made after five women were shot and killed inside the Lane Bryant store inside the Brookside Marketplace Shopping Center during a robbery in February 2008. Minn hopes the film will help investigators find the killer. ISP gives update on Gibson City shooting Illinois State police are providing an update on the offic...
2025-08-1509 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, August 14, 2025ISP continues search for alleged Gibson City shooterAuthorities are still searching for a man accused of shooting two officers in Ford County over the weekend. State police say officers responded early Saturday to the 100 block of Ash Street in Gibson City on a report of a naked man, identified as David Jordan. While making contact with Jordan at his home, a Gibson City Police officer and Ford County Sheriff's officer were shot. Shortly after the shooting, the house caught fire. Police received a tip yesterday that a person had possibly spotted Jordan in Sibley. Howev...
2025-08-1405 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, August 13, 2025Crime Stoppers Tip of the WeekManteno Police are looking into a burglary that happened last Saturday. Tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous and could result in a cash reward.County Board sets officials salariesDuring Tuesday morning's Kankakee County Board meeting, the Board voted to set the State's Attorney's annual salary. The County Board also voted to set the Public Defenders annual salary. During Tuesday's meeting, the County Board voted to accept a 139-thousand dollar bid to sell the former animal control facility and voted to...
2025-08-1307 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, August 12, 2025Manhunt continues for Gibson City manIllinois State Police continue the search for the man believed to have been responsible for shooting two police officers and setting fire to a home in Gibson City early Saturday morning. Troopers say officers responded about 2:30 Saturday morning to the 100 block of Ash Street in Gibson City on a report of a naked man, identified as David Jordan, walking outside. While making contact with Jordan at his home, a Gibson City Police officer and Ford County Sheriff's officer were shot. Shortly after the shooting, the house caught fire. Jordan is...
2025-08-1208 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, August 11, 2025Man wanted in Gibson City shootingIllinois State Police are investigating after two police officers were shot in Gibson City early Saturday morning. Troopers say it was just after 2:30 Saturday morning when officers were called to a report of a naked man, identified as 70-year-old David D Jordan of Gibson City, walking in the 100 block of Ash Street. Reports say when officers tried to make contact with Jordan at his home, they were met with gunfire and a Gibson City Officer and Ford County Deputy were hit. Both officers suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were taken...
2025-08-1107 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, August 8, 2025One killed in Rte 50 crashIllinois State Police are investigating after another fatal crash this morning at Route 50 and County Line Road in far northern Kankakee County. Reports say the crash happened just after 7:30 this morning and involved three vehicles. Troopers say three people were taken to the hospital to be treated for injuries and one of the three died at the hospital. Route 50 had to be closed down for a time while the wreckage was cleared and the crash re-constructed. The name of the victim has not yet been released, pending notification of next...
2025-08-0811 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, August 7, 2025Kankakee Municipal Band summer concert series wraps up tonightThe Kankakee Municipal Band summer concert series wraps up tonight at the Palzer Band Shell in Bird Park. The concert starts at seven o'clock tonight. Kankakee City Police report fight over a parking spaceKankakee City Police report a fight Tuesday afternoon. According to reports, it was just before 12:30 Tuesday afternoon when officer were called to the 200 block of Crestlane for a fight in progress. When they got there, officers reportedly found about a dozen people arguing a...
2025-08-0708 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, August 5, 2025New subdivision planned for BourbonnaisPlans for a new subdivision are underway in the Village of Bourbonnais. During last night's Village Board meeting, trustees passed an ordinance approving a general development and phasing plan for the Pony Farm Subdivision, planned for the area across from Turnberry Subdivision west of town. Plans call for Pony Farm to be 120 lots with 24 platted in the first phase of construction, which VanMill says should start sometime in the spring of 2026.Iroquois County Deputies make Aggravated Battery arrestIroquois County Sheriff's P...
2025-08-0610 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, August 6, 2025Riverside Foundation names Samaritan of the YearThe Riverside Healthcare Foundation's President's Circle dinner was held last night. The highlight of the night was the awarding of the 2025 Samaritan of the Year award. Last night's dinner was held at Riverside's Atrium Building on Kennedy Drive in Bradley. Gladiolus Fest begins today in MomenceThe 87th annual Momence Gladiolus Festival kicks off tonight. This year's festival theme is "Game Night". The Fest runs through Sunday.Crime Stoppers Tip of the Week
2025-08-0606 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, August 4, 2025Petition period starts tomorrow for March electionsNominating packets will be available starting tomorrow for anyone interested in running for an elected county position in the March primary. Hendrickson added that if you have any questions about the packets you can call the Kankakee County Clerk’s office. Lake Co IN Fair continuesThe Lake County Fair in Crown Point, Indiana continues today. The Lake County Fair runs through Sunday in Crown Point. Visit lake dash county dash fair dot com for more details. Hoop...
2025-08-0405 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, August 1, 2025What's going on around Kankakee County this weekendThere's plenty to do in Kankakee County this weekend. With a look at a few of the events.Kankakee County Fair ContinuesThe Kankakee County Fair continues today at the fairgrounds just south of Kankakee. Health Fair tomorrow in KankakeeHippocrates Medical Clinic in downtown Kankakee will host a “Back to School Health Fair” Saturday at their location on East Court. Dondi Maricle is the President of Hippocrates Board of Direct...
2025-08-0110 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, July 31, 2025No injuries reported when semis collide just outside Manteno5000 East Road and 9000 North Road east of Manteno were closed for about three hours yesterday after two semi trucks collided. According to the Kankakee County Sheriff's Office, the accident happened around 1 yesterday afternoon when the semi traveling south on 5000 east road turned on 9000 north road in front of the other semi. No one was injured in the crash. Secret Food Pantry today in BourbonnaisAnother of those Secret Food Pantry mobile pop-up events is scheduled for the V...
2025-07-3108 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, July 30, 2025Kankakee County Fair opens todayThe Kankakee County Fair opens today at the fairgrounds just south of Kankakee.Crime Stoppers Tip of the WeekKankakee County Sheriff's Police are looking for information about an attempted burglary that happened July 21st at a shed in rural Reddick. Tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous and could result in a cash reward. Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://po...
2025-07-3007 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, July 29, 2025Livingston County Task Force arrests Kankakee manA Kankakee man has been arrested by Fairbury Police following an investigation into alleged sex crimes against a child. According to a press release from the Crimes Happening Against Our Students Task Force, 42 year old Jacob D. McCorkle of Kankakee was taken into custody by Fairbury Police early Monday morning in Forrest for allegedly attempting to meet a child for sexual purposes. McCorkle has been charged with indecent solicitation of a child, traveling to meet a child, among other charges. Alabama man arrested a...
2025-07-2907 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, July 28, 2025Notable Night Sky NewsTime now to find out what's happening overhead this week. MSMF Scholarship WinnersThe Merchant Street Music Fest Music Education Scholarship Winners were announced Saturday at the fest in Kankakee. King said they received over 30 applicants for the music education scholarship this year and plan to offer the scholarships again next year. Heat Advisory again todayA heat advisory goes into effect for us at noon today and runs through eight tonight. The Nat...
2025-07-2805 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, July 25, 2025Drought concerns deepenDespite recent rains, drought concerns continue to worsen across the county. The latest map released Thursday by the US Drought Monitor now puts 10 percent of Kankakee County in the "severe drought" category, with just over 70 percent of the county in "moderate drought" and the remaining 20 percent listed as "abnormally dry". That's a significant change from last week when about 50 percent of the county was considered in "moderate drought" and none of the county was listed as in "severer drought". Today's map lists 80 percent of Iroquois County as "abnormally dry" with the other 20...
2025-07-2508 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, July 24, 2025Jasper County Fair continues today in Rensselaer The Jasper County fair is running all this week in Rensselaer Indiana. With a look at today's events. The fair runs through Saturday at the fairgrounds in Rensselaer.Kankakee Municipal Band summer concert series continues tonightThe Kankakee Municipal Band Summer Concert Series continues tonight at the Palzer Band Shell in Bird Park. The free concert starts at seven tonight at the Palzer Band Shell in Bird Park. The Municipal Band's summer concert series runs through August 7th.
2025-07-2407 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, July 23, 2025Heat and HealthWith temperatures in the 90's and a heat index over 100 for the next few days, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid illnesses such as heat exhaustion. Chapman added you should avoid sun exposure for long periods of time when extreme heat watches and warnings are in place. If you do need to be out in the sun, Chapman says you should wear a hat, along with sun screen, and drink plenty of water. Jasper County Fair continuesThe Jasper County fair...
2025-07-2306 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, July 22, 2025Bourbonnais hires news Police ChiefThe Village of Bourbonnais has a new Police Chief. During last night's Village Board meeting, Mayor Jeff Keast announced his pick for law enforcement's top spot in the Village. That vote was not without its controversy as the majority of the trustees stated while giving their vote they had concerns about the way the search was conducted. Many feeling the Village Trustees had been left out of the decision making process, taking away the "advise and consent" guaranteed them by Village Ordinance. For his part, Chief Morefield said with h...
2025-07-2207 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, July 21, 2025Friday night crash kills oneIllinois State Police report a two-car crash on Route 45/52 near Manteno Friday evening killed a Minooka man. According to reports, it was just after 8:30 Friday night when the car driven by 54-year-old Marc Eyman of Minooka was westbound on 10-thousand North Road, failed to stop at 45/52 and was hit broadside by a northbound car. Reports say both cars ended up in a field northwest of the intersection. Eyman was taken to the hospital where he died of his injuries. County Coroner Bob Gessner says a preliminary autopsy shows Eyman died...
2025-07-2105 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, July 18, 2025Iroquois County Fair FridayThe Iroquois County Fair continues today. The Iroquois County Fair runs through Sunday at the fairgrounds just outside Crescent City.What to do this weekend around Kankakee County It's another weekend and time to find out about some of the activities going on around the area with Nicole Gavin, Executive Director of Visit Kankakee CountyDrought concerns deepenDespite recent rainfall, drought concerns continue to grow around the area. The latest map just rele...
2025-07-1806 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, July 17, 2025Milner Media Farm Services Director Mike Perrine passes at 83Word reached us Wednesday afternoon of the passing of Milner Media Farm Services Director Mike Perrine. Mike's radio career spanned some six decades, including a stint with Tribune Radio Networks, where he worked alongside industry giants Max Armstrong and Orion Samuelson. In 1995 Mike came to the Kankakee area to begin his time as farm director for another local radio station, before moving to Milner Media in 2013. In November 2023, he was inducted into the National Association of Farm Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Mike was 83 years old.
2025-07-1707 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, July 16, 2025Crime Stoppers Tip of the WeekLocal law enforcement agencies are investigating two burglaries that happened early Sunday morning. Tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous and could result in a cash reward.Iroquois County Fair continuesIt’s day two of the Iroquois County Fair in Crescent City. The Iroquois County Fair runs through Sunday at the fairgrounds just outside Crescent City. Herscher residents still need to conserve The water crisis is over in the Village of Hersch...
2025-07-1607 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, July 15, 2025Iroquois County Deputies announce weekend arrestsIroquois County Sheriff's Police report a pair of weekend arrests. Friday night deputies were called to Loda for a disturbance. While investigating the disturbance, Iroquois County Sheriff's Police made contact with 33-year-old Skylar Cannon of Hoopeston. Cannon was found to be driving an allegedly stolen car. Cannon was arrested by deputies for possession of a stolen motor vehicle.Iroquois County Deputies were also called to Onarga Friday night by paramedics who said they'd been attacked while working on a patient. 19-year-old Joseph Burke of...
2025-07-1507 minWVLI News UpdateMonday, July 14, 2025Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://pod.link/1843321847
2025-07-1405 minWVLI News UpdateFriday, July 11, 2025: Drought updates, river dredging progress, weekend events, a burglary report, and the Newton County Fair.Drought concerns grow across the region Drought concerns are growing again across the area. The latest map just released today by the US Drought monitor puts about 19 percent of the county in "moderate drought". That number is unchanged from last week, but the other 81 percent of the county is now considered "abnormally dry", up from 64 percent last week. The latest map has six percent of Iroquois County rates as in "moderate drought" with the other 94 percent rated "abnormally dry". Today's map puts 34 percent of Ford County and 48 percent of Grundy County in the "moderate drought" c...
2025-07-1108 minWVLI News UpdateThursday, July 10, 2025: Busy weekend at "The Grove" in Bourbonnais, Bomb squad called in after grenade found in Wilmington home, Newton County Punkin' Vine Fair continues, Kankakee Municipal Band summer concert series continues tonight,Busy weekend at "The Grove" in BourbonnaisThings are going to be busy at the Grover behind Village hall in Bourbonnais this weekend. Village of Bourbonnais Marketing and Community Engagement Director Lindy Casey says it all starts tonight with "Dinner and Movie on the Green". Casey says food and desert trucks will be available from five til eight tomorrow night as well. Then Sunday the Grove hosts "unplug and play" from one til four in the afternoon. Oversized lawn games and activities while you put the electronic devices down for a few hours. ...
2025-07-1009 minWVLI News UpdateWednesday, June 9, 2025: Crime Stoppers tip of the Week, Newton County Punkin' Vine Fair continues today, Kankakee County Board makes plans to buy hovercraftCrime Stoppers tip of the WeekLocal law enforcement continues to look for clues about who was involved in a fatal shooting the first of the year. Kankakee County Sheriff's Department Chief Deputy Trent Bukowski has our Crime Stoppers Tip of the WeekNewton County Punkin' Vine Fair continues todayThe Newton County Punkin Vine Fair continues today. Fair Publicity Director The fair runs through Saturday at the fairgrounds just outside Kentland. Kankakee County Board makes plans to buy ho...
2025-07-0909 minWVLI News UpdateTuesday, June 8, 2025: Bourbonnais Trustees hear appropriations ordinance, Career Center Road study coming, Newton County Punkin' Vine Fair continues todayBourbonnais Trustees hear appropriations ordinanceDuring Monday night's Bourbonnais Village Board meeting, trustees heard the first reading of an ordinance that would set the legal spending limits on all funds in the village for the next fiscal year. Latz said the main reason for the about 300-thousand dollar drop in the budget was the completion of the Grove project behind Village Hall. A public hearing on the ordinance will be held before the next Board meeting on July 21st. Career Center Road study comingDuring last ni...
2025-07-0807 minWVLI News UpdateNewton County Fair starts today, Haas holds school supply drive, Haas holds school supply driveNewton County Fair starts todayThe Newton County Punkin Vine Fair starts today. The fair runs through Saturday at the fairgrounds just outside Kentland. Haas holds school supply drive79th District Illinois State Representative Jackie Haas starts her 2nd Annual School Supply Drive today. School supply items can be dropped off at Representative Haas’s new office inside the first floor of the Clock Tower Centre building on South Schuyler in Kankakee from now until July 21st. The collected supplies will be passed out at National Night...
2025-07-0707 minWVLI News UpdateSheriffs department reminds you "don't drink and drive", City of Kankakee to celebrate the 4th,Sheriffs department reminds you "don't drink and drive"You should think twice before getting behind the wheel after you’ve had a few drinks this 4th of July weekend. Kankakee County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Trent Bukowski says they will have extra patrols out on the roadways looking for impaired drivers.City of Kankakee to celebrate the 4thIt’s the 4th of July holiday weekend, and that means plenty of activities on the river in Kankakee. It all starts at 4:30 tomorrow afternoon on the KCC side of the Kankake...
2025-07-0308 minWVLI News UpdateAuthorities release names in murder/suicide, IL counties to move?, State to require lead testing of infants and toddlers, Crime Stoppers Tip of the WeekAuthorities release names in murder/suicideBradley Police have released the names of the three people found dead in a home early Monday morning. According to the press release, all three victims were related. 89 year old Wayne McCarty, 88 year old Patricia McCarty, and 61 year old Michael McCarty. All three victims were pronounced dead at the scene of what police say appears to be a murder suicide. An autopsy determined the cause of death was by a firearm.IL counties to move?A commission with six Hoosiers...
2025-07-0206 minWVLI News UpdateBusy travel season underway, Feds want jail time for one of ComEd four, Indiana tax increases, New laws start today in IL 200% on cigarettesBusy travel season underwayMore than 72-million Americans are expected to travel for the Fourth of July holiday. Triple-A says most will travel by car with the busiest travel days being tomorrow and Sunday, July 6th. The TSA expects to screen more than 18-million air travelers between today and next Monday.Feds want jail time for one of ComEd fourFederal prosecutors are calling for one of the so-called "ComEd Four" to be sentenced to more than four and a half years in prison. The recommendation for...
2025-07-0108 minWVLI News UpdateDHS chases suspect through St. Anne, Weekend crash in Wilmington, Notable Night Sky News June 30, 2025DHS chases suspect through St. AnneSt. Anne Police report an attempted traffic stop by the Feds early Sunday morning ended up in a chase. In a Facebook post, St. Anne Police say it was early Sunday morning when agents from the Department of Homeland Security tried to stop a car. Instead of stopping, the suspect allegedly backed into the officers car and sped away. While there's no word of where the chase began, DHS agents chased the car through St. Anne where the suspect allegedly stopped in the backyard of a house and took...
2025-06-3007 minWVLI News UpdateFriendship Festival Friday activities, Fishing Derby starts today, What to do this weekend around Kankakee CountyFriendship Festival Friday activitiesThe 50th Annual Bourbonnais Friendship Festival continues today and runs through Sunday at The Grove in Bourbonnais. Fishing Derby starts todayThe 42 Annual Kankakee River Fishing Derby kicks off today and runs through next Sunday. President of the Northern Illinois Anglers Association, Ken Munjoy, says the derby is very family oriented.To find out how to register and for more details, visit kankakee fishing derby dot com. The Milner Media Fish this year are Morgan Walleye, Billie Eyefish, and Hooked O...
2025-06-2707 minWVLI News UpdateFriendship Festival, Bill to Ban AI Therapists, Kankakee Municipal Band Concert SeriesFriendship Festival continues today in BourbonnaisThe 50th Annual Bourbonnais Friendship Festival continues today and runs through Sunday at The Grove in Bourbonnais. Justin Munson with today’s lineup of events.Thursday gas pricesGas prices continue to climb as the summer travel season approaches. Triple-A says the average cost for a gallon of regular no-lead gas is running three-dollars-49 cents on average across the Land of Lincoln. That's up three cents overnight. Locally the cost for a gallon of gas jumped by another nickle overnight to th...
2025-06-2608 minWVLI News UpdateFirework Safety, West Nile Virus, Crash kills 3 peopleIL Fire Marshal urges firework safetyThe Illinois State Fire Marshal is urging fireworks safety over the July 4th holiday. The National Fire Protection Association says fireworks started more than 31-thousand fires in 2022. These fires caused an estimated six deaths, dozens of injuries and 109-million-dollars in direct property damage. These fires aren't only caused by commercial fireworks, but also by novelty fireworks that are sometimes purchased at local supermarkets.IL officials announce first human West Nile Virus case of the yearThe CDC is confirming the first human case of...
2025-06-2508 minWVLI News UpdateFormer GCMS teacher ordered held until trial/Route 49 closed for repairFormer GCMS teacher ordered held until trialA former Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley teacher charged with sexually abusing a student will remain in custody. Robert Dinkins was denied pre-trial released while appearing in Ford County court yesterday. He was arrested earlier this month in Macon, Georgia on charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. An investigation was launched in March after the parents of a GCMS student said their child had received concerning texts from Dinkins. The investigation found that Dinkins had participated in sexual activities with a high-school age student.Route 49 clos...
2025-06-2407 minWVLI News UpdateRecord Breaking Weather for July 4th/IL Unemployment Remains UnchangedNotable Night Sky News w/Madeline ShepleyLet's find out now what's going on in the sky this week. With our Notable Night Sky News, here's Madeline Shepley, Astronomy Professor and Director of the Strickler Planetarium at OlivetIL unemployment unchangedIllinois' unemployment rate remains the same. The Illinois Department of Employment Security says the state's jobless rate was unchanged at four-point-eight percent last month. Non-farm payroll jobs were up slightly to over six-point-one-million in May.July 4th travel expected to...
2025-06-2305 min