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

Fatal ATV Rollover in Bonfield, Bourbonnais Fire Displaces Family, Plus Bradley’s Bid for a Massive $75M Entertainment District - Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

This episode of the WVLI News Update with Rob West covers critical public safety developments and a major economic proposal shaping the future of Kankakee County. The report begins with updates on two major local emergencies: a tragic weekend ATV rollover in Bonfield that resulted in a fatality, and an early morning residential fire on Dale Lane in Bourbonnais that left a family displaced and caused significant property damage. In contrast to these public safety updates, the episode explores a massive new economic development initiative out of Bradley. The Bradley Village Board has taken its first legislative steps toward a STAR bond district, aiming to secure a multi-million dollar state match for a proposed $75 million entertainment, hospitality, and sports complex. The update also features reports on a regional summer event delay, public infrastructure adjustments, and the daily sports roundup. Listen to the full episode for the complete reporting, detailed project specifications, and official statements from local authorities. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2512429/fan_mail/new] Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee [https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com]  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings [https://pod.link/1805226181]  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

Fatal Father's Day Shooting in Kankakee, Rabid Bat Found Locally, and Record-Breaking Weather - Monday, June 22nd, 2026

The latest WVLI News Update with Rob West covers critical developments affecting the local community, from a fatal crime investigation to historic weather milestones. This episode features details on an active investigation by the Kankakee City Police regarding a recent fatal shooting, alongside newly released data from the National Weather Service that marks a historic shift in Illinois weather patterns. The briefing also examines an alarming nationwide health advisory impacting teenagers, a wildlife safety warning issued by Kankakee County Animal Control, and a recent narcotics arrest by the Iroquois County Sheriff's Police. Furthermore, the update highlights new compliance rules and potential fines for short-term rental property owners in Manteno, followed by a complete breakdown of regional sports scores and upcoming games. Hear the complete reports, law enforcement requests, and full details by listening to the entire episode. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2512429/fan_mail/new] Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee [https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com]  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings [https://pod.link/1805226181]  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

Juneteenth Celebrations, Dropping Gas Prices, and Kankakee County Weekend Events - Friday, June 19th, 2026

In this edition of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West delivers a comprehensive look at the key national and local developments affecting the Kankakee County region. The episode begins with an exploration of the historical significance of the Juneteenth federal holiday, featuring insights from the Kankakee County branch of the NAACP, alongside a practical breakdown of government, banking, and postal closures. Listeners will also get an update on the continuous shift in regional gas prices across Illinois and Indiana as the summer holiday season approaches. Local governance and community infrastructure take center stage with updates from the County Board's Finance Committee meeting regarding current property tax collections, major local taxpayers, and pending infrastructure bids following recent spring weather. Additionally, the episode previews upcoming regional events, including street closures for a major local festival, community safety initiatives, regional employment statistics, and a psychological look at transitioning into the summer season. The update concludes with a full breakdown of local and national sports, covering baseball, basketball, and racing. Listen to the full episode to get all the specific details, figures, and complete local reporting. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2512429/fan_mail/new] Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee [https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com]  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings [https://pod.link/1805226181]  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

Regional Tornado Updates, Surge in Kankakee Building Permits, and A $30,000 Surprise for Veterans - Thursday, June 18th, 2026

In this edition of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West delivers a comprehensive look at the key headlines impacting the Kankakee region and broader Illinois community. The episode opens with an update on recent severe weather across the Midwest, detailing recovery efforts and structural damage assessments in hard-hit areas like Charleston and Effingham County. The broadcast also highlights several upcoming community events, including a highly anticipated holiday weekend concert in downtown Kankakee and the launch of a popular seasonal market. Listeners will hear an inspiring story regarding a major fundraising milestone achieved by a local youth to support veterans housing at Liberty Lodge, alongside important administrative updates from Mayor Chris Curtis regarding a significant surge in city building permit applications. Finally, the update provides details on a modified local musical performance and a complete roundup of regional and international sports. To get the full context, specific event times, and complete details on these stories, listen to the full episode. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2512429/fan_mail/new] Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee [https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com]  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings [https://pod.link/1805226181]  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.

Severe Storm Warnings, Bradley Officer Trial Updates, and Illinois' New $56B Budget - Wednesday, June 17th, 2026

Stay informed with the latest edition of the WVLI News Update with Rob West. This episode delivers critical coverage on an active severe weather system moving through Kankakee County, including a designated flood watch, flash flood potential, and afternoon tornado risks. Our reporting team also brings you the latest developments from the Kankakee County Court regarding the upcoming trial of Xandria Harris. Additionally, we highlight vital community events, including State's Attorney Jim Rowe’s youth initiatives and the upcoming Senior Safety Fair in Bradley. You will also hear updates on regional workforce data regarding elder care, a recent local narcotics arrest, application details for the Bourbonnais Friendship Festival, and a breakdown of Governor J.B. Pritzker's newly signed state budget. Finally, we wrap up with a comprehensive look at local, regional, and international sports. Listen to the full episode to get all the specific timelines, location details, and comprehensive journalistic reports on these stories. Have a news tip to share? Send us a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2512429/fan_mail/new] Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network: This One Time in Kankakee [https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com]  (Narrative Storytelling) Kankakee Valley Community Happenings [https://pod.link/1805226181]  (Businesses & Non-Profits) The voices you trust, beyond the dial.