Kankakee Valley Community Happenings

WVLI Podcast Network

WVLI Podcast Network presents conversations highlighting what’s happening across local businesses and organizations in the Kankakee and surrounding areas.

  1. How to Stand Out to Kankakee County Employers with Angela Morrey

    2d ago

    How to Stand Out to Kankakee County Employers with Angela Morrey

    In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano welcomes Angela Morrey from the Kankakee County Economic Alliance to discuss the transition from graduation to the local workforce. As hundreds of area students finish their degrees and certificates, the landscape for job seekers continues to evolve. Angela shares critical insights into what local employers are currently prioritizing during the hiring process, emphasizing specific interpersonal attributes that can make a lasting first impression. The conversation highlights valuable free resources available to the community, including an interactive online career assessment and resume-building platform offered in partnership with Kankakee Community College. Angela also provides practical strategies on how job seekers can effectively translate everyday experiences into marketable resume assets and leverage informational interviews with local professionals. Listen to the full episode to learn how to access these free career tools and hear essential advice for navigating your professional journey. 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.

    9 min
  2. Brandy Buchmeier Talks Heroes, Hogs & Hot Rods and Project Headspace & Timing

    4d ago

    Brandy Buchmeier Talks Heroes, Hogs & Hot Rods and Project Headspace & Timing

    Denny Case sits down with Brandy Buchmeier of Project Headspace & Timing to discuss the 7th Annual Heroes, Hogs & Hot Rods Festival in downtown Manteno. During the conversation, Brandy shares how the event has grown over the years, what attendees can expect this year, and how the festival continues to support veterans and strengthen community connections. From live entertainment and family-friendly activities to new additions and volunteer opportunities, there is plenty happening throughout the weekend. The discussion also highlights the mission of Project Headspace & Timing and the organization's ongoing efforts to support veterans in the region. Whether you're interested in classic cars, live music, community events, veteran support initiatives, or simply looking for a fun day out, this episode offers a preview of one of the area's most anticipated annual gatherings. Listen to the full episode to hear all the details about this year's festival, special activities, entertainment lineup, volunteer opportunities, and how you can get involved. 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.

    9 min
  3. Bringing Dreamgirls to the Kankakee Stage: Audition and Production Insights with Tyler McMahon

    Jun 2

    Bringing Dreamgirls to the Kankakee Stage: Audition and Production Insights with Tyler McMahon

    In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with local director Tyler McMahon to discuss the Kankakee Valley Theatre Association's upcoming and highly ambitious production of the hit musical Dreamgirls. McMahon shares his personal history with KVTA and highlights how this specific production represents a monumental and concerted effort by the organization to foster greater diversity and inclusion within the local theatre community. The conversation delves into the timeless appeal of the storyline—drawing parallels to iconic real-world musical groups—and explores what audiences can expect from the show's dramatic character arcs. McMahon also provides a preview of the staging challenges, from era-defining costume transitions to iconic choreography that spans the 1960s through the rise of disco. Additionally, vital information is shared for local performers looking to audition, including how the creative team is approaching the casting process and what materials hopeful actors should prepare. Hear the full episode to discover the creative vision behind this massive local production, specific audition tips, and how KVTA is preparing to bring this legendary musical to life. 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.

    12 min
  4. Summer in the City: Kankakee's 2026 Event Lineup with Mayor Chris Curtis

    Jun 1

    Summer in the City: Kankakee's 2026 Event Lineup with Mayor Chris Curtis

    In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with Kankakee Mayor Chris Curtis to discuss the city's highly anticipated summer event lineup for 2026. From the seasonal return of the Kankakee Farmers' Market to local music festivals, classic car shows, and community evening strolls, the city has a packed calendar designed for residents and families. Mayor Curtis shares insights into what makes this summer season unique, updates on classic community traditions, and how downtown Kankakee is preparing for a vibrant few months. There are plenty of surprises and specific date turnouts you will want to mark on your calendar. Tune in to the full episode to discover all the dates, locations, and key highlights of what is happening in Kankakee this summer. 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.

    5 min
  5. Relay for Life Kankakee County: An Interview with Honorary Chair Matt McBurnie

    May 28

    Relay for Life Kankakee County: An Interview with Honorary Chair Matt McBurnie

    In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Rob West sits down with Matt McBurnie, the Vice President of Public Relations and Communications at Riverside Medical Center. This year, Matt takes on a special role as the Honorary Chair for the local Relay for Life, an event celebrating its 31st year of bringing the community together to support the American Cancer Society. During their conversation, Matt discusses the profound personal and community motivations behind the event, highlighting how it honors cancer survivors, remembers loved ones, and recognizes the vital work of caregivers and medical professionals. The episode also explores the ongoing growth of the Riverside Cancer Institute and its commitment to deploying expert cancer care services closer to home across a broader geography. While Kankakee County has a legendary track record for its fundraising leadership in the state of Illinois, hitting this year's ambitious goals requires community-wide participation. Listen to the full episode to get the complete details on the upcoming event date, its family-friendly location, the schedule of activities for kids, and how you can register an individual or team to join the cause. 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.

    6 min
  6. Bourbonnais Township Park District: Family Night Out, Summer Camps, and New Park Updates

    May 27

    Bourbonnais Township Park District: Family Night Out, Summer Camps, and New Park Updates

    In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with Cherie Smolkovich and Lindsey Patterson from the Bourbonnais Township Park District to discuss the upcoming kickoff to the summer season. The conversation highlights the upcoming Family Night Out event at Perry Farm Park, detailing a variety of family-friendly activities, what attendees should bring, and tips for navigating the event. Cherie and Lindsey also share a preview of the park district's extensive seasonal lineup, including the return of popular summer concert series, local markets, and various youth camp programs. Additionally, listeners will get an update on the newest animal additions to the Perry Farm family and learn how community members can get involved through local volunteer opportunities. Tune in to the full episode to get all the specific details on event times, registration information, and how to plan your family's summer activities with the Bourbonnais Township Park District. 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.

    6 min
  7. Bourbonnais Summer Events & Park Updates with Mayor Jeff Keast

    May 27

    Bourbonnais Summer Events & Park Updates with Mayor Jeff Keast

    In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with Village of Bourbonnais Mayor Jeff Keast to discuss the highly anticipated lineup of summer activities, community initiatives, and park updates. From seasonal event series at The Grove to updates on local recreational facilities, this conversation highlights how the village is preparing for a vibrant, engaging, and safe summer season for residents of all ages. Topics covered in this episode: The official kickoff dates for popular community events and food-focused summer series at The Grove.An operational update on the Bourbonnais Splash Pad opening timeline.A brand-new creative partnership with the Bourbonnais Public Library and Little Me Studio designed specifically for children and teenagers.Information on how residents can join the Weed Warriors volunteer initiative to help maintain local park beauty on their own schedule.An update on park etiquette, community safety measures, and the positive impact of local resident cooperation.To get the specific dates, times, and details on how you can participate in these upcoming village initiatives, listen to the complete episode. 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.

    6 min
  8. Kankakee County Economic Update: Housing Market Trends and Small Business Support

    May 26

    Kankakee County Economic Update: Housing Market Trends and Small Business Support

    In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings, host Mike Tomano sits down with Angela Morrey from the Economic Alliance to discuss the latest economic updates impacting Kankakee County. This conversation highlights major shifts in the local real estate landscape and the vital resources driving community growth. Addressing the Housing Market The discussion opens with an analysis of the current real estate market, addressing the high demand and limited housing options experienced locally and nationwide. Morrey shares insights from a recent housing study and outlines strategic plans to introduce diverse residential developments to the area over the coming months. Listeners will also learn about the state's upcoming housing blueprint initiative and how local residents can make their voices heard at an upcoming community listening session at Kankakee Community College. Supporting Local Small Businesses The episode also highlights the critical role small businesses play as the cornerstone of the local economy. The conversation details how business owners can leverage networking opportunities through regional organizations, including the Kankakee County, Manteno, and Momence Chambers of Commerce. Additionally, the episode covers state-level support systems available through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) designed to help new and existing businesses scale. Listen to the full episode to discover the specific timelines for new developments, find out how to participate in state housing surveys, and learn how to access exclusive tools for local business growth. Resources & Contact Information Economic Alliance Website: kankakeecountyed.orgPhone: 815-935-1177Get 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.

    6 min
See All (39)

About

WVLI Podcast Network presents conversations highlighting what’s happening across local businesses and organizations in the Kankakee and surrounding areas.

Information

  • Channel
    WVLI Podcast Network
  • Creator
    Milner Media
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kankakee Valley Community Happenings

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