Greg & Dan Show Interviews

Dan talks with director Kevin Wickhart and actress Megan Blardo about Eastlight Theatre’s upcoming production of Hands on a Hardbody, a musical inspired by the true events captured in the 1997 documentary of the same name. They discuss the unusual true story behind the show, how it was transformed into a stage musical, the cast bringing these characters to life, and what drew Kevin to directing the production. They also preview what audiences can expect from Eastlight’s production and why the show offers much more than its unusual premise. Showtimes: Hands on a Hardbody is performed at 7:30 p.m. at Eastlight Theatre-Auditorium in East Peoria, with tickets available through Eastlight Theatre. Explore Peoria For more information and tickets, visit Eastlight Theatre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan talks with Jason and Matt Lowe of the Lowe Brothers about their musical journey, which dates back to 1996, and how they have rediscovered their sense of purpose and passion for performing over the years. The brothers share how they got their start, the opportunities they’ve explored throughout their careers, and why they believe it’s never too late to pursue a dream. They also discuss their “Nashville Connection,” which evolved during the pandemic and ultimately connected them with The 615 Collective, a group of Nashville singer-songwriters who come together to showcase the songwriting and storytelling at the heart of the Nashville sound. Jason and Matt preview their special homecoming performance in Peoria on Friday, September 25 at the 3300 Event Center, where the Lowe Brothers will open for The 615 Collective. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show beginning at 7 p.m. The brothers reflect on what it means to return home for the performance and share an encouraging message about continuing to chase your passions and never giving up on your dreams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan talks with Ken Zurski, announcer for the Morton Marching Invitational, and Andy Empey, Co-Director of Bands at Morton High School, about the 20th Annual Morton Marching Invitational, happening Saturday, September 26 at Morton High School, with performances beginning at 2:30 p.m. The annual competition welcomes marching bands from across Illinois and beyond to showcase their field shows before a professional judging panel, with awards recognizing outstanding winds, percussion, color guard and overall performances. They discuss what the Invitational has meant to Morton over the past 20 years, the excitement and passion surrounding marching band, and the tremendous amount of time, preparation and dedication students put into their performances. They also highlight why the event is important to the community and the special atmosphere created when students, families, schools and marching band fans all come together. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors, and children 3 and under are free.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan talks with Steve Holihan of Benjamin F. Edwards about the recent surge in long-term interest rates, with the 30-year U.S. Treasury yield reaching its highest level since 2004. Steve explains what Treasury yields are, why they’re rising, and what higher long-term rates can mean for consumers, businesses, borrowing costs, and the overall economy. They discuss the combination of persistent inflation and strong economic and corporate growth, along with a market that remains diversified despite uncertainty. Steve also breaks down why the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates to slow economic activity and help control inflation, while explaining the balancing act of cooling demand without weakening an otherwise resilient economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan talks with Dr. Angie Cooksy, Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing & Communications at Bradley University, about the excitement surrounding the new academic year and welcoming Bradley’s largest incoming undergraduate class in four years to campus. She discusses the renewed energy and buzz among students, new features and improvements around campus, and the university’s continued efforts to evolve with what students are looking for in their college experience. She also highlights Bradley’s new Artificial Intelligence major, which gives students hands-on experience in areas including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing and computer vision. She also looks ahead to Homecoming Weekend, October 2–4, including the annual Lighting of the B, one of Bradley’s signature Homecoming traditions, as students, alumni and the community come together to celebrate Bradley.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan talks with Cheryl Langley and local author Joe Chianakas about the upcoming Between the Lines Literary Expo, happening Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at the Peoria Civic Center. The event brings readers and writers together for a celebration of books and storytelling, giving attendees the chance to meet authors, discover new work, and learn more about the journey from an idea to a finished book. Cheryl and Joe discuss how many people dream of writing a book and the excitement that comes with helping new authors take that step. Joe shares more about his own work and experience as an author, while Cheryl reflects on what it’s like working with so many different writers and watching their ideas come to life. They also highlight the growing creative collaboration happening throughout Central Illinois, the supportive relationships that develop between writers, and why the local author community can truly begin to feel like family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan talks with Leslie Rothan, Governmental Affairs Director for the Peoria Area Association of REALTORS® (PAAR), about the organization’s efforts to help make downtown Peoria more inviting and community-focused through improvements to Fulton Plaza. They received a Placemaking Grant from the National Association of REALTORS® to support the project, part of a national program designed to help REALTOR® associations transform public spaces into vibrant community gathering places. She discusses how housing and creating desirable places to live go hand-in-hand, and why making downtown spaces more welcoming can help strengthen the community as a whole. She highlights PAAR’s partnership with Big Picture Peoria and the passion and creativity the organization has brought to the project, along with the practical, people-focused additions made to Fulton Plaza. She also discusses PAAR’s collaboration with Distillery Labs, the importance of investing in new ideas and partnerships, and why people should be excited about the continued growth and revitalization happening throughout downtown Peoria.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan talks with DeLoss Jahnke about the mounting economic pressures facing farmers and ranchers, from high beef prices and changing trade policy to the rising cost of simply operating a farm. They discuss the Trump administration’s recent move to temporarily expand lower-tariff beef imports, including beef from Argentina, as an effort to bring consumer prices down He explains why things feel particularly uncertain in agriculture right now, with farmers facing higher costs for fuel, equipment, fertilizer and transportation by truck and rail, while young farmers face an increasingly expensive path to getting started. He also discusses rising nitrogen, phosphate and sulfur-related fertilizer costs, how long those pressures could persist, and why careful risk management is especially important when farmers have little control over input costs, commodity prices, weather, government policy and global markets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Morgan DeGroot, Raynah Unes-Reid, and Lavender Critz about Morgan Needs an Organ, the community effort supporting Morgan as she searches for a kidney donor and navigates her transplant journey. Morgan shares her personal story, including the challenges she has faced and experiencing dissociation while dealing with everything surrounding her health and search for a donor. Lavender offers her perspective as Morgan’s sister and caregiver, while Raynah discusses why she became involved and how she helped create the Morgan Needs an Organ Benefit Series to support her best friend. They reflect on the different fundraising events the community has rallied around and preview their biggest upcoming event, Morgan’s Kidney Harvest Festival, happening Saturday, October 3 from noon–9 p.m. at Friendly Valley Tavern in Peoria. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Cody Birely, physical therapist and Founder and President of Prairieland Adaptive, about the organization’s mission to expand access to adaptive sports, recreation, and fitness for individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments throughout Central Illinois. He shares how his background in physical therapy and neurological rehabilitation, along with years of volunteering in adaptive sports, inspired him to create the organization and help people remain active and connected beyond traditional therapy. He also previews the second annual Adapt and Conquer Expo, happening Saturday, September 26 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at Bradley University’s Markin Family Student Recreation Center. He discusses why building community is at the heart of Prairieland Adaptive and the importance of creating opportunities for people of all abilities to discover new activities, make connections and see what is possible. For more information, visit Prairieland AdaptiveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Pete McMurray of the Brothers’ McMurray Family Charity about the McMurray family’s personal journey with cancer and how those experiences inspired them to turn their family’s strength into a mission to help others. He shares the story of growing up as one of 12 McMurray siblings and how cancer has directly affected their family, including four siblings who are cancer survivors. He also previews the 4th Annual McTOBERFEST, happening Saturday, September 26 from 3–6 p.m. at Jimmy’s Bar, 2801 W. Farmington Road in West Peoria. The annual fundraiser brings the community together to raise money for cancer research and patient care while enjoying an Oktoberfest-inspired afternoon for a cause. He also talks about his own career in broadcasting, his passion for connecting with listeners, and his Saturday shows on WMBD. For more information about the family’s mission and McTOBERFEST, visit Brothers’ McMurray Family Charity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Shawn Degenhart of GospelFest Ministries about the upcoming A Country Gospel Fest, happening Saturday, September 26. He shares the story behind how the show came together and what inspired the country-gospel theme, along with what audiences can expect from the performance. He highlights the choir and live band that help bring the music to life and talks about the musicians, arrangements, and faith-centered message behind the show. He also discusses GospelFest Ministries and its continued mission of bringing people together through uplifting live music and community! For more information about the show and GospelFest Ministries, visit GospelFest MinistriesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with author and testicular cancer survivor Brian Sluga about his memoir, The Shriek I Do Remember: Winning the Race of Life and Other Stories, which tells the story of being diagnosed with testicular cancer at just 20 years old while he was a college athlete. He shares the background behind the book, what life was like when he received his diagnosis, and the fear, uncertainty, faith, and emotional challenges he experienced throughout his cancer journey and recovery. He also discusses his passion for writing and his other books and previews his upcoming appearance at the River City Reading Room on Saturday, September 26 from 2-4 p.m., where he’ll discuss his journey and sign copies of his book. For more information about Brian and his books, visit Brian Sluga’s official website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Megan Scott, Executive Director of the Peoria Art Guild, about the 64th Annual Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair, happening Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 at Riverfront Festival Park in Peoria. She previews a weekend that feels like a full arts festival, bringing together more than 100 artists, along with live music and performances, local food and drinks, a Kids Art Festival and other interactive experiences. She also highlights this year’s poster and community mural artist, Merrell Hickey, whose colorful beadwork inspired elements of the weekend. The Fine Art Fair is also the Art Guild’s major annual fundraiser, supporting its exhibitions, classes, community outreach and art programming throughout the year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Chris Setti, CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, about the many festivals and community events recently held throughout Central Illinois and why they can play an important role in local economic development. He discusses how festivals bring people into communities, support local businesses, and give the region an opportunity to showcase its personality, culture, and quality of life. He also talks about the importance of continuing to invest in new ideas, entrepreneurs, and businesses and how creating vibrant communities where people want to spend time can contribute to the region’s overall growth and success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about the growing role of artificial intelligence in technology people already use every day, including Ring cameras and Amazon Alexa. He explains how Ring uses AI for features such as Familiar Faces, which can recognize enrolled frequent visitors, as well as Search Party, which uses nearby Ring cameras and AI to look for possible matches when a dog is reported missing. He also discusses Ring’s previously announced connection with Flock Safety; the companies planned an integration in 2025 but canceled it in February 2026 before it ever launched, meaning Ring customer videos were never sent to Flock through that integration. He also explains how Alexa uses AI, including voice recognition and newer integrations with Ring, and uses these familiar technologies to illustrate just how embedded AI has become in everyday life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk to Bret Johnson & Art Karaganis about the Rock and Roll Reunion from this past weekend! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Kitty Yanko, Director of the Peoria Humane Society, about the 30th Annual Bark in the Park, happening Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at Tower Park in Peoria Heights. She previews what animal lovers can expect from one of the Humane Society’s largest annual fundraisers, including the Marvelous Mutt Show, dog games, a parade, cake walk, souvenir photos, pet-related exhibitors, rescue groups, raffle baskets, food vendors and more. She also discusses what makes the 30th anniversary special and how money raised through Bark in the Park supports animals throughout the Peoria area, helping provide medical and rehabilitation care, pet food assistance, spay and neuter programs, adoption efforts and humane education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chuck Levesque, River City Reading Room, stopped by to help us get back to reading for fun. He recommended two fiction works, one non-fiction and one children's book. Only 16% of Americans read for pleasure. Let's turn that around!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cheryl Boswell and her volunteers bring healthy food to folks in our community by teaching how to grow and prepare food grown in the garden. Their garden. My Mother's Community Garden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Bradley University Baseball Head Coach Justin Dedman and pitchers Calen Scheider and Robert Sanford about GO Day, the annual community event in Downtown Peoria, and how Bradley Baseball gets involved and connects with the community. Dedman, who is entering his second season leading the Braves, also discusses the team’s fall season and upcoming home games on October 8 and 10. Scheider and Sanford share their perspectives as players, their baseball backgrounds, what fueled their passion for the game, and where they hope baseball takes them in the future. Scheider is a sophomore right-handed pitcher from Gilberts, Illinois, while Sanford is a senior right-hander from Carrollton, Texas. He also breaks down what each pitcher brings to the mound, highlighting their individual skills and development as Bradley looks ahead to the next season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Connie Davis, Founder and Executive Director of SAMS (Stray Animal Midway Shelter), about the organization’s history and mission of reducing the number of animals euthanized in Central Illinois by finding pets loving homes. She previews the annual Woofstock, happening Sunday, September 20 from noon–4 p.m. at the Kickapoo Sportsman’s Club. The dog-friendly outdoor event features live music from the West MacQueen Street Band, vendors, food trucks, activities, a silent auction, raffle and more. Connie also introduces listeners to Penelope, a special dog who is still looking for her forever home and has become the shelter’s longest resident. For tickets and more information, visit SAMS Rescue’s Woofstock pageSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about the growing amount of fear and misinformation surrounding artificial intelligence and why, despite everyone seeming to have an answer about AI, those answers are not always accurate. He addresses alarming claims that AI is “evil” or actively plotting to harm humans, explaining why attributing human characteristics such as morality, intent, or malice to today’s AI can create a misleading picture of the technology. He discusses where AI actually stands today, the concept of recursive self-improvement and what increasingly rapid advances could mean moving forward. He also talks about growing anxiety surrounding AI, concerns involving China and the global AI race, and the important distinction between AI and artificial general intelligence, or AGI. He also previews an upcoming AI-focused event at the Peoria Riverfront Museum on Monday, September 28 from noon–5 p.m., designed to bring people together to better understand the rapidly changing world of artificial intelligence and what its advancement could mean for the future. For more information on the upcoming event, visit Pearl Technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Ken Zurski, traffic reporter for WMBD, about the recent NBC4 news helicopter crash in Los Angeles, which killed aerial journalist Eliana Moreno, pilot George Marciniw, and a person on the ground. He explains how hearing about the tragedy immediately brought back memories of his own experience surviving a small plane crash many years ago after the aircraft’s engine quit. He recalls what happened in those frightening moments, what ultimately saved him, and how that experience shaped his perspective on aviation safety. Ken also discusses some of the differences between airplanes and helicopters during an emergency and why the recent tragedy brought those memories flooding back.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Clark Kellogg, longtime CBS Sports college basketball analyst and former NBA player, about coming to Peoria for “Hope Has An Army,” the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Annual Fundraiser, happening Thursday, October 1 at Venue Chisca. He also reflects on his own journey, the importance of his faith throughout his life and career, learning to see the bigger picture, and the message he hopes to share with those attending the event. The fundraiser supports the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary and its work serving people throughout the Peoria area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Marie Morris and Kisha Woods about the upcoming Pathways to Success Women’s Conference, happening Friday, September 18 from 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Par-A-Dice Hotel in East Peoria. The annual conference brings women from across Central Illinois together for a full day of leadership, professional development, networking, shopping with local vendors, and opportunities to connect. Marie and Kisha preview this year’s keynote speaker Brittany Richmond, along with breakout sessions featuring Cindy Byrd, Megan Couri, and Dr. Ashley Hammond, and an early-bird leadership panel featuring several local women leaders. They also discuss this year’s theme, “Let’s Get Real: Not Perfect, but Authentically You!”, and the importance of letting go of the pressure to be perfect, embracing who you truly are, and leading with authenticity and confidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Diana Klein of the Wheels O’ Time Museum about wrapping up another season, which runs May 1 through October 31, and the special events still ahead before the museum closes for the year. Diana highlights LEGO/Robotics Day on Saturday, September 19, featuring the museum’s “Bricks in Motion” LEGO display, local robotics and technical teams, demonstrations, and hands-on building opportunities. She also previews the museum’s annual garage sale and fundraiser on Saturday, September 26, along with the popular Fall Festival on Sunday, October 11 from noon–4 p.m., when the museum comes alive with blacksmithing, folk music, classic vehicles, fire equipment, demonstrations, trains, and more. For more information on the museum and upcoming events, visit Wheels O’ Time Museum.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Rick Blanco, founder of Casoblanco Creative, about his extensive background in the entertainment and creative industries, including work connected to major brands such as Disney, Xbox, and Mattel. He shares how those experiences shaped his career and fueled his passion for creating immersive entertainment. He also talks about his longtime love of Halloween and how that passion inspired Casoblanco Creative, a business focused on bringing imaginative experiences and concepts to life. Rick previews plans for a Halloween takeover at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery and Eatery beginning October 15, explaining what a “takeover” involves and how he plans to transform the space and create a unique experience for visitors. He also shares why he chose to move to Peoria, what he enjoys about being part of the local community, and his hopes to bring more creative entertainment experiences to the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with local author Patricia Nimmo about her book Diary of a Mad White Woman, a humorous and sometimes sarcastic collection of observations about the ups, downs, and everyday experiences of life. Patricia shares what inspired her to write the book, highlights a couple of its chapters, and reflects on her outlook that there are eventually “more yesterdays than tomorrows” and why that perspective influences her writing. She also discusses where readers can find her books and previews her appearance at Between the Lines, Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at the Peoria Civic Center, an author event bringing readers and writers together to celebrate books, storytelling, and the creative process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Mridu Chandra, Director and Producer of the historical documentary Saund vs. Cochran, about the remarkable true story behind the film. She discusses what first drew her to this largely overlooked chapter of American political history, the extensive research behind bringing it to the screen, her background and experiences as a filmmaker, and what comes next for her. She also previews tonight’s 6:45 p.m. event at Bradley University, where audiences will get an early look at the documentary and learn more about the history behind it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Suzy Walker-Cortez and Bruce Moore of Bikers Against Street Hunger (B.A.S.H.) about the 35th Annual B.A.S.H. event, happening this Saturday September 19th. They look back at how the event got its start more than three decades ago and how its mission has continued to grow, bringing the motorcycle community together to help fight hunger throughout Central Illinois. They preview what attendees can expect from this year’s event, discuss the impact the money raised has on the community, and share the incredible passion and generosity of the local biker community when it comes to helping people in need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Chris Setti, CEO of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council, about the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and the work underway on the new 2026–2030 five-year plan. He explains how CEDS serves as an intentional roadmap for economic growth across Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Mason, and Logan counties, and how community input gathered through The Big Table helps shape priorities for the region’s future. He also reflects on the progress made under the previous five-year plan and discusses why the process continually begins and ends with input and collaboration from the people who live and work throughout Greater Peoria.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about the growing conversation surrounding artificial intelligence and whether it may be time to “put the brakes” on how quickly the technology is advancing. He separates some of the sensationalism surrounding AI from what the technology can and cannot actually do, while explaining the importance of understanding its limitations. He also discusses how developers work to keep AI systems contained and controlled, the concept of AI misalignment and what it means when an AI system’s behavior or goals don’t fully match what humans intended, and why safeguards are increasingly important as the technology becomes more powerful.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Gene Olson, Director of Airports for the Metropolitan Airport Authority of Peoria, about his firsthand experience working in airport operations on September 11, 2001. At the time, Olson was Director of Operations at Evansville Regional Airport, and he recalls the morning of the attacks, receiving calls from air traffic control, and the unprecedented decision to halt air traffic across the country. He walks through what it took to shut down airport operations, secure runways and terminals, sweep the building, and respond as the aviation industry faced a situation unlike anything it had experienced before. He also reflects on how airport security and procedures changed in the aftermath and how long it took for many of the new rules and systems travelers know today to take shape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Scott Corsaut, Chairman of the Greater Peoria Honor Flight Board, and Robbie Mathison, owner of Pour Bros. Craft Taproom, about the 10th Annual Armed Forces Celebration Day, happening Saturday, September 12 from 5–11 p.m. at Pour Bros. in Peoria Heights. The annual event brings the community together to celebrate and support veterans and active-duty military members while also raising awareness of resources and services available to veterans throughout Central Illinois. They preview what attendees can expect, discuss what reaching the event’s 10th year means to the community, and share why supporting those who have served continues to be personally meaningful to them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, one of the featured speakers at today’s 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. He reflects on his own memories and experiences surrounding September 11, 2001, and how the attacks changed the country. He also shares his thoughts on America’s role in leading through diplomacy, the importance of unity and public service, and why the lives lost and sacrifices made that day must continue to be remembered by future generations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Eddie and Tracy Sutter about their deeply personal connection to September 11, 2001—the day their twin babies were born. They recall the events of that morning, what they remember seeing and hearing as the attacks unfolded, and the emotions of welcoming two new lives into the world on a day marked by unimaginable tragedy. Now, 25 years later, they reflect on that unique mixture of joy and heartbreak and the reminder that even during the darkest moments, life goes on.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Peoria Fire Chief Shawn Sollberger about today’s 25th Anniversary 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, happening at 10 a.m. at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Chief Sollberger, who is serving as honorary chair of the ceremony, reflects on the emotions he experienced on September 11, 2001, when he was just three years into his career as a firefighter, and what was happening within his own fire department as news of the attacks unfolded. He discusses the instincts firefighters develop through their training, the desire to step forward and serve when others are in danger, and what draws people to the profession in the first place. He also addresses criticism firefighters sometimes face and shares his perspective on the commitment, sacrifice, and responsibility that come with the job, while honoring the first responders and nearly 3,000 people whose lives were lost 25 years ago.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Dr. Brinda Mehta, Director of the Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute at OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois, and Amanda Marcanio, Program Manager with OSF HealthCare, about Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of helping children not only get through treatment, but thrive during and after it. They discuss what children and families experience, advancements in treatments and support services, and the difference between cancer and non-cancerous blood disorders. They also preview the inaugural Dinking for a Cure Pickleball Tournament, happening Saturday, September 19 from 7 a.m.--2 p.m. at Glen Oak Park in Peoria. The tournament features men’s, women’s and mixed doubles divisions for adults and youth, with registration at $40 per team. Beneficiary: OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute and Paint the Town Gold. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Major Anita Sells and Tami Shawgo about “Hope Has An Army,” the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Annual Fundraiser, happening Thursday, October 1 at Venue Chisca in Peoria. The evening begins with doors opening and a silent auction at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:15 p.m. and the evening program. They discuss what guests can expect from the evening and how attendees often leave feeling inspired by the stories and mission behind the Salvation Army’s work. Most importantly, funds raised by the Women’s Auxiliary stay local and support Salvation Army programs serving people throughout the Tri-County area. For more information, visit www.sapeoria.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Brian Carroll, the 2026 Pekin Marigold Festival, about Roots & Boots Dragon Jam, kicking off the Pekin Marigold Festival weekend on Friday, September 11 from 5-11 p.m. at the Avanti’s Event Center Fields in Pekin. He discusses how Dragon Jam celebrates Pekin’s musical past while embracing this year’s “Marigold Roots & Country Boots” country-western theme. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Eureka College Head Football Coach Dion Jordan about the inaugural Berlin Wall Bowl, happening Saturday, September 12 at McKinzie Field at Eureka College. The day begins with a tailgate at 11 a.m., followed by a special pregame ceremony at 4:30 p.m. and kickoff at 5 p.m. between the Eureka College Red Devils and Westminster College Blue Jays. He discusses the opportunity to use football as a way to help players and fans learn about and understand history, while also sharing how his own life experiences influence the way he coaches. He reflects on his personal journey through football, lessons he’s learned along the way, and how those experiences have shaped the coach and mentor he is today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Brian Alwan of Alwan & Sons Meat Company about the 20th Anniversary St. Jude Peoria to Memphis Ride, which takes off this morning from Walters Brothers Harley-Davidson. This year, 145 riders are making the 465-mile journey from Peoria toward Memphis, traveling first to Dyersburg, Tennessee, before joining other St. Jude riders and continuing to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital campus, where they’ll celebrate their fundraising efforts and present a check to St. Jude. Brian discusses the incredible support behind the ride, the number of people participating this year, and the commitment to making sure the money raised benefits the kids and families of St. Jude. Since the ride began in 2007, St. Jude Rides has raised more than $13.2 million, with last year alone bringing in approximately $1.4 million.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Alex Chan, Director of Volunteer Outreach for the Peoria Area Young Adult Social Meetup (YASM), about the 4th Annual East Peoria Riverfront Clean-Up, happening Sunday, September 20 from noon–4 p.m., with volunteers meeting at the East Peoria Target parking lot near Panera Bread. He also explains the mission behind Peoria Area YASM and discusses how the cleanup works, what volunteers can bring, and why keeping local waterways clean is an important way for the group to make a positive impact on the community. For more information or to get involved, visit Peoria Area Young Adult Social Meetup.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with David Commanday, Artistic Director and Conductor of the Heartland Festival Orchestra, about kicking off the orchestra’s 2026–27 season with “Mozart & Bruch.” The concert takes place Friday, September 11 from 7:30–9:30 p.m. at Crossroads Global Methodist Church, 1420 N. Main St. in Washington. He dives into the backgrounds of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Max Bruch, their individual approaches to music, and the passion and personality that come through in their work. For more information and tickets, visit www.heartlandfestivalorchestra.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Jen Grogan of Rekindle Health about some of the biggest frustrations women face when it comes to understanding their health, emotions, and the changes their bodies experience throughout different seasons of life. She also previews “Rekindle the Shift: Understanding Your Emotions, Your Body, and Your Season,” happening Saturday, September 12 at 3:30 p.m. at Quail Meadows Banquet Center in Washington. She breaks down what the event’s title represents, what women can expect from the experience, and how gaining a better understanding of the connection between emotional and physical health can help women feel more informed and empowered in their own lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Brent Bixby, Vice President of the Greater Peoria Honor Flight, about the organization’s 40th Honor Flight taking place today, Tuesday, September 8. Veterans are returning to Peoria for a welcome home at approximately 9:30 p.m. He discusses the powerful opportunity Honor Flight gives veterans to share their stories, connect with one another, and receive recognition for their service. He also reflects on how every veteran responds to the experience differently, the special connections formed throughout the day, and why being involved with the Greater Peoria Honor Flight mission is so meaningful to him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with John Heller, founder of the Heller Center for Kids, about how the program began at OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois and how its mission has grown over the years. He explains how the program works, shares some of the experiences and challenges children and families have faced, and discusses why those needs led the Heller Center to evolve beyond traditional medical care. He also highlights how the Center is expanding its model of critical non-medical support to reach children and families across additional specialty areas at OSF Children’s Hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Steve Bortolotti about Peoria Players Theatre’s upcoming production of Come From Away, opening Friday, September 11—the 25th anniversary of 9/11—and running through September 20. He discusses the powerful true story behind the musical and shares what audiences can expect from Peoria Players’ production, highlights members of the cast, and talks about the significance of telling this story of compassion, humanity, and connection as the country marks 25 years since 9/11. For tickets and more information, visit Peoria Players Theatre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Tre Thompson, founder of Boys to Men Empowerment, about the organization’s mission to mentor young men in Peoria and provide them with positive role models, life skills, and opportunities that can help set them on a successful path. He also highlights Boys to Builders Academy, an initiative within Boys to Men Empowerment that teaches young men hands-on building and trade skills while also introducing entrepreneurship and the possibility of building careers or businesses of their own. He discusses the important role that men already working in the trades, construction, and other areas of the community can play by sharing their experience, skills, and guidance with the next generation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with David Houseworth, Northern Tazewell Fire Chief and co-chair of the September 11 Remembrance Ceremony Committee, about Washington’s annual September 11 Remembrance Ceremony, taking place Sunday, September 6 at 4 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Helicopter in Washington Park. He discusses what attendees can expect and why remembering the lives lost and sacrifices made on September 11 remains so important to the Washington community, especially as the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the attacks. He also highlights this year’s special guest speaker, U.S. Air Force Major Heather “Lucky” Penney, an F-16 pilot.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.