WVLI News Update

WVLI Podcast Network
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Daily News

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.

  1. Auto Theft Arrests, New Insurance Bills Move to the Governor's Desk, and Weekend Events in Kankakee County - Friday, May 29th, 2026

    20h ago

    Auto Theft Arrests, New Insurance Bills Move to the Governor's Desk, and Weekend Events in Kankakee County - Friday, May 29th, 2026

    In this episode of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West delivers the latest local and regional updates impacting Kankakee County and the surrounding areas. Key coverage includes recent law enforcement developments from the Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force and local police, alongside a major funding announcement from the Community Foundation of the Kankakee River Valley aimed at supporting local non-profits. The broadcast also highlights critical legislative bills moving to Governor JB Pritzker's desk that could alter how insurance rates are regulated for Illinois residents. Additionally, the episode covers state-level tourism grant opportunities, regional gas price fluctuations following the holiday weekend, and a record-breaking outdoor wildlife season. Wrapping up with a guide to upcoming community weekend events and a comprehensive sports recap, this update covers everything you need to know. Listen to the full episode for complete details on these developing stories. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

    10 min
  2. Kankakee Dog-Fighting Charges, Indiana's Record-Low Gas Prices, and Senator Durbin's Farewell Address - Thursday, May 28th, 2026

    1d ago

    Kankakee Dog-Fighting Charges, Indiana's Record-Low Gas Prices, and Senator Durbin's Farewell Address - Thursday, May 28th, 2026

    Welcome to the latest edition of the WVLI News Update with Rob West. In this episode, we cover significant regional developments, starting with major law enforcement updates in Kankakee County regarding official charges filed after a recent investigation into an alleged dog-fighting ring, alongside substantial drug charges stemming from an interstate traffic stop. We also bring you details on a recent arrest in Frankfort involving an area teenager facing serious charges. In state and economic news, fuel prices are shifting significantly across the Midwest, with one neighboring state currently boasting the lowest averages in the nation due to a temporary tax holiday. Meanwhile, in Springfield, a prominent Illinois lawmaker delivers a poignant farewell address to state legislators ahead of retirement, and new public health legislation moves to the governor's desk aimed at increasing crisis awareness. Additionally, this update highlights upcoming community events and weekend family activities in Kankakee and Bourbonnais, essential food safety tips for the summer grilling season from medical experts, and a comprehensive sports wrap-up covering the latest results and schedules for the Cubs, White Sox, Cardinals, Chicago Sky, and regional playoff action. To get the complete stories, facts, and interviews, listen to the full episode. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

    7 min
  3. Major I-57 Drug Bust, Bradley Property Evictions, and Illinois State Capital Complex Lockdown - Wednesday, May 27th, 2026

    2d ago

    Major I-57 Drug Bust, Bradley Property Evictions, and Illinois State Capital Complex Lockdown - Wednesday, May 27th, 2026

    Stay informed with the latest regional headlines on this episode of the WVLI News Update with Rob West. This update covers critical local developments, law enforcement actions, and community events across Bradley, Kankakee, and the surrounding areas. Key topics in this episode include: Bradley Village Board Updates: Insights into the recent resolution passed regarding properties near Northfield Square Mall and future redevelopment plans.Significant Highway Drug Arrest: Details from the Illinois State Police regarding a high-stakes traffic stop on I-57 that led to a major narcotics seizure.Local Safety and Investigations: Updates on a recent lockdown at the State Capital complex in Springfield and ongoing police investigations into reported threats in Kankakee.Community Events and Tax Deadlines: A look ahead at upcoming summer events in Bradley, including the Bradley 315 Fest, plus important property tax details for Iroquois County residents.Regional Sports Report: Recaps and upcoming schedules for local baseball, basketball, and hockey teams.For full details, context, and comprehensive reporting on each of these stories, listen to the complete episode. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

    9 min
  4. Corrections Officer Mourned, Pembroke Dog Fighting Ring Busted, and Kankakee County Memorial Day Honors - Tuesday, May 26th, 2026

    3d ago

    Corrections Officer Mourned, Pembroke Dog Fighting Ring Busted, and Kankakee County Memorial Day Honors - Tuesday, May 26th, 2026

    In this edition of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West brings you the latest local news, community developments, and sports updates impacting Kankakee County and the surrounding regions. The episode opens with coverage of Memorial Day ceremonies observed throughout the county, featuring reflections on the significance of the day from local veterans. The update also details a tragic weekend car accident in Momence that resulted in the loss of a Kankakee County corrections officer, alongside reports on two separate residential fires in Grant Park and Crete that drew multi-agency emergency responses. Additional segments include: An overview of State Senator Patrick Joyce’s newly launched summer educational initiative for local students.A recent law enforcement operation by the Kankakee County Sheriff's Police addressing an illegal operation in Pembroke Township.The latest updates on a fatal hit-and-run investigation involving a motorcyclist in rural Jasper County.A look at the upcoming night sky events with Madeline Shepley from Olivet Nazarene University.A comprehensive roundup of recent scores and standings for the White Sox, Cubs, Cardinals, and regional post-season play.Hear the full stories, interviews, and official statements by listening to the complete episode. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

    8 min
  5. Verdict Delivered in 2021 Bradley Murder, Essex Hit-and-Run Investigation, and Memorial Day Weekend Events - Friday, May 22nd, 2026

    May 22

    Verdict Delivered in 2021 Bradley Murder, Essex Hit-and-Run Investigation, and Memorial Day Weekend Events - Friday, May 22nd, 2026

    In this edition of the WVLI News Update, guest host Jake LaMore steps in for Rob West to deliver the latest breaking news, community developments, and sports updates from across Kankakee County. This episode covers a major verdict handed down by a Kankakee County jury regarding a 2021 shooting, along with ongoing law enforcement investigations into a recent physical assault in Kankakee and a severe hit-and-run incident in Essex. Listeners will also get details on a newly launched digital resource from the County Treasurer’s Office designed to improve accessibility, as well as a legislative push by Illinois State Senator Patrick Joyce to modernize transit laws for local farmers. As the region prepares for the holiday weekend, this update features critical travel and safety reminders from local law enforcement and fire department officials, details on regional Memorial Day commemorative ceremonies, and a roundup of community events courtesy of Visit Kankakee County. Finally, wrap up with a comprehensive look at the sports landscape, including the latest updates for the Cubs, White Sox, and Cardinals, alongside post-season coverage for the NHL and NBA. Listen to the full episode to get the complete details on these stories and stay informed on what is happening in your community. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

    10 min
  6. Inside the Manteno Forensic Audit, FBI's Operation Viper, and Memorial Day Travel Updates - Thursday, May 21st, 2026

    May 21

    Inside the Manteno Forensic Audit, FBI's Operation Viper, and Memorial Day Travel Updates - Thursday, May 21st, 2026

    In this edition of the WVLI News Update with Rob West, we cover major local developments impacting Kankakee County and the surrounding areas. From highly anticipated financial investigations to federal crime crackdowns and holiday travel advisories, this episode breaks down the stories shaping our community this week. Key Topics Covered in This Update: The Manteno Forensic Audit: The long-awaited findings from Green Forensic Accounting Solutions have been presented to the Village of Manteno. Hear how village officials are responding to the findings regarding local spending patterns, wire transfers, and property sales, and why leadership remains divided on the conclusions.Local Fraud Sentencing: A Bourbonnais woman faces prison time following a federal investigation into a multi-person conspiracy targeting pandemic-era relief funds.Property Tax Sticker Shock: Kankakee County Assessor Erich Blair addresses the recent surge in property tax bills, explaining how local voter-approved referendums are impacting your wallet and what exemptions you need to verify.Statewide Legislation on Junk Fees: Illinois lawmakers have sent a new bill to Governor J.B. Pritzker’s desk aimed at eliminating hidden costs. Learn which everyday purchases and services will be impacted by this upcoming ban.Operation Viper Crackdown: The Kankakee County Sheriff's Office, alongside the FBI and regional law enforcement, details the results of a massive five-day multi-agency surge targeting high-impact fugitives.Holiday Travel & Health Advisories: Get the latest updates on regional gas price fluctuations ahead of Memorial Day weekend, crucial traffic safety reminders from the Illinois State Police, and a health report from the Kankakee County Health Department regarding regional virus tracking.Local and National Sports: A quick wrap-up of the latest performances from the Cubs, White Sox, Cardinals, and Chicago Sky, alongside critical updates from the NBA and NHL playoff brackets.Want the full story? This update contains critical details regarding local governance, community safety, and financial changes directly impacting you. Tune in to the full episode of the WVLI News Update with Rob West for the complete breakdown and expert commentary.Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

    9 min
  7. Missing Bourbonnais Girl Found Safe, Herscher Home Invasion, and Kankakee County Property Taxes - Wednesday, May 20th, 2026

    May 20

    Missing Bourbonnais Girl Found Safe, Herscher Home Invasion, and Kankakee County Property Taxes - Wednesday, May 20th, 2026

    In this edition of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West delivers the latest local news, crime updates, and sports headlines impacting Kankakee County and the surrounding communities. This episode covers several major local developments, including a critical update on a missing youth investigation in Bourbonnais, the mailing of Kankakee County property tax bills alongside key deadline information, and the kickoff of a local community outreach initiative at Bird Park. In regional coverage, Rob breaks down the latest comments from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell regarding the ongoing Chicago Bears stadium search and the two specific locations still in play. Law enforcement updates include a federal firearms sentencing, an arrest following a home invasion in Herscher, and a state-wide alert from the Illinois State Police regarding an ongoing text message scam. As the holiday weekend approaches, the update also features crucial safety reminders for motorists and boaters, the regional Crime Stoppers Tip of the Week regarding a recent theft, and a breakdown of shifting area gas prices. Finally, Jake LaMore reports on leadership changes at the Bourbonnais Township Park District, followed by a full wrap-up of Chicago and national sports action. Listen to the full episode for complete details, official statements, and the comprehensive local sports report. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

    10 min
  8. Manteno Forensic Audit Delays, Bourbonnais Solar Farm Moratorium, and Kankakee Fire Department Promotions - Tuesday, May 19th, 2026

    May 19

    Manteno Forensic Audit Delays, Bourbonnais Solar Farm Moratorium, and Kankakee Fire Department Promotions - Tuesday, May 19th, 2026

    In this edition of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West delivers comprehensive coverage of the key legislative, financial, and community developments impacting Kankakee, Manteno, Bourbonnais, and the surrounding regions. This episode breaks down major local governance updates, including a sudden postponement and upcoming special session regarding Manteno's highly anticipated forensic audit. In Bourbonnais, trustees have enacted a new zoning moratorium regarding commercial developments in residential areas, alongside updates on municipal contract negotiations. Key Topics Covered in This Update: Local Governance & Audits: The latest timeline on the Manteno Village Board's forensic audit review and a newly passed ordinance regarding board member attendance.Zoning & Infrastructure: Details on Bourbonnais’ new commercial solar farm restrictions and Kankakee’s $860,000 infrastructure investment targeting sanitary sewer basins.Public Safety & Community Personnel: New safety ordinances for specialized commercial facilities, personnel shifts within the Kankakee Fire Department, and a multi-year contract agreement for local law enforcement.State Politics & Economy: State Representative Jason Bunting provides an update on the record-breaking $56 billion Illinois state budget negotiations, alongside a regional breakdown of shifting gas prices ahead of holiday travel.Holiday Traffic Enforcement: Illinois State Police issue a warning regarding high-visibility patrols and the "Fatal Four" violations to watch out for this Memorial Day weekend.Regional Sports: A complete recap of the latest outcomes for the Cubs, White Sox, and regional postseason hockey and basketball tracking.To get the full breakdown, statements from village officials, and the complete analysis of these developing stories, listen to the full episode. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

    10 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

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.

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