Greg and Dan welcome Matt and Sara Ruder of Gone Social for a conversation on their recent announcement of a location change from Peoria’s Warehouse District to the Landmark Recreation Center.  The Ruder’s discuss the reasons behind the move, the business’s opportunities for expansion, and the exciting future of Gone Social. Gone Social, previously known as Gone Axe Throwing among other names, has been in operation in the Warehouse District since 2017. Visit gonesocialpeoria.com for more information.

The Greg and Dan Show welcomes Kevin Miller and Tate Hohulin ahead of the Tri-County Team Cup presented by Tennis Genius on Saturday, June 1st at Bradley University’s David Markin Tennis Courts. The Tri-County Team Cup is a spectator event played for bragging rights around the Tri-County area featuring ten of the best tennis players from Peoria County facing off against ten of the best in Tazewell and Woodford Counties, in a format of 6 singles matches and two doubles matches.

The Peoria Municipal Band prepares for its 87th season with an exciting schedule of 24 concerts starting with a Memorial Day performance on Monday morning at the Gateway Building.  Dr. David Vroman, former Director of Band Activities and the Department Chairperson for Music at Bradley University, has directed the Peoria Municipal Band since 1991. Greg and Dan talk to Dr. Vroman for a preview of the Band’s upcoming performances this summer and the history of the Band.  Visit peoriamunicipalband.com for more information.

Cicada-geddon has commenced! Greg and Dan talk to Dr. Katie Dana of the University of Illinois about the arrival of cicadas throughout parts of the state and country. Dr. Dana dissects the unique qualities of cicadas and their mating cycles, her excitement for their long-awaited arrival, and when the Peoria area may experience the large swarms of cicadas.  Visit WMBD Radio or The Greg and Dan Show on Facebook and share your cicada pictures!

Tazewell County Clerk John Ackerman joins Greg and Dan to preview the Tazewell County World War II Veterans Event honoring the County’s remaining 16 WWII Veterans on Memorial Day, May 27th, at 3:00 PM in Morton High School’s Bertha Frank Theater. This event is an opportunity for Veterans to share their experiences with the community.

25 News First Alert Chief Meteorologist Chuck Collins updates Greg and Dan on tonight’s severe weather and what to expect.  Collins notes the likelihood of straight line winds along with the possibility for tornadoes and large hail. Tonight’s weather is expected between 6:00 - 8:00 along the Illinois River, and will likely start around 4:00 in parts of western Illinois.

Greg and Dan welcome Attorneys Kayla Hickey and Kelly Giraudo as well as Speak Out Illinois CEO Jake Partee for a preview of Lawyers in the Library on Friday, June 14th from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM in the Pekin Public Library.  This session of Lawyers in the Library will cover Family & Criminal law along with consultations for Medical Malpractice, Car Accidents, Personal Injury Claims and Workers Compensation Matters.  Speak Out Illinois LLC has partnered with Butler, Giraudo & Meister, P.C, Giraudo Law Inc and Cusack & Gilfillan, Attorneys at Law for this session.

Greater Peoria Economic Development Council’s Chris Setti stops by The Greg and Dan Show to talk about the exciting weekend in the Peoria area ranging from sporting to art events.  Setti talks about his attendance of the Peoria City Soccer home opener and his overall enjoyment, as well as the massive crowd and popularity of the openings of the Peoria Riverfront Market and Peoria Art Guild’s Sculpture Walk.  The trio discuss the reasonings behind individuals who believe there’s nothing to do in the Peoria area or claim that it is simply boring.

25 News First Alert Chief Meteorologist Chuck Collins issues concern over today’s potential isolated severe weather events starting mid-afternoon until sunset that may include large hail and damaging winds.  Collins warns that tomorrow’s severe weather is currently categorized as a Level 3 as all hazards are in play Tuesday evening including a few tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds.

Retired Brigadier General Robbie Robertson and Dr. John Ruff join The Greg and Dan Show to talk about the Peoria High Alumni Association's Golf Outing at Weaver Ridge on May 31st.  Brigadier General Robertson and Dr. Ruff discuss the impact that the Alumni Association has on the students of Peoria High, the organization's mission, and the details of the event.  All proceeds will benefit the Peoria High Alumni Association and their efforts.  Visit peoriahighalumni.org to register and for more information.

Greg and Dan speak with Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce President Joshua Gunn as he says goodbye to the Peoria area after arriving in 2020.  Gunn notes his affection and gratitude for the Peoria area, the excitement of moving to Glendale, Arizona where he will assume a similar role, and reflecting on the impact he created in Peoria. 

Traffic One's Ken Zurski joins The Greg and Dan Show to preview the upcoming Preakness Stakes on Saturday, May 18th.  Zurski gives his predictions on who might win, the possibility of a Triple Crown winner, and breaking down the field of contenders. 

The Greg and Dan Show and the Peoria area says goodbye to a Peoria radio legend today. After 40 years on the airwaves throughout the city, Rick Hirschmann is leaving and moving to South Carolina where he doesn't quite know what's next...

Greg and Dan welcome Peoria Vegan Chef Challenge Organizer Amy Raher and Chef Cody Scogin of Ardor Breads and Provisions for a reflection on the Vegan Chef Challenge that took place throughout the month of April and featured 18 local restaurants.  Every participant received an award including: 1st Place & Best Breakfast awarded to Intuition Coffee + Juice, 2nd Place & Best Main Course to The Queen of Squash, and 3rd Place & Best Treat given to Tadoughs.  Chef Cody describes the inspiration behind his team’s award-winning dessert and how Ardor became a reality in downtown Peoria.  Raher notes the incredible success of the Peoria Vegan Chef Challenge, the retaining of vegan dishes at many of the participating restaurants, and what’s next.

Sharon Gramm joins The Greg and Dan Show to preview the Opening Day of the Peoria Riverfront Market on Saturday, May 18th from 8:00 AM - Noon.  Starting on May 18th and continuing every Saturday until September 28th, the Peoria Riverfront Market features local produce, food and beverage, activities for kids, entertainment, and much more.

Greg and Dan talk to Bruce Huber of the BMW Car Club of America Foundation - Illini Chapter about the Tire Rack Street Survival Safe Driving School on Saturday, July 27th and Sunday, July 28th from 8am - 4pm.  Huber notes that car crashes are still the leading killer of teens in America, and most of them are caused by simple, avoidable errors.  Tire Rack Street Survival consists of two classes for drivers, ideally, ages 15-21 and is located in Caterpillar’s Building AC parking lot in Mossville. The program improves driver competence through hands-on experiences in real-world unexpected situations. Visit streetsurvival.org to register and for more information.

The St. Jude Corvette Drive is a two-day event benefiting St. Jude Children's Hospital.  Washington Police Chief and St. Jude Runs Founder Mike McCoy tells Greg and Dan about the preparation leading into today's drive, and the excitement of heading to the St. Jude campus.

Greg and Dan talk to Shannon Cox of the Peoria Art Guild about the 2024 Sculpture Walk and its Opening Day Event on Saturday, May 18th from 9:00 AM - Noon.  This free outdoor public art exhibit features 8 new sculptures along both sides of Washington Street from the Peoria Riverfront Museum to the Bob Michel Bridge. The 2024 Sculpture Walk of Peoria exhibit will remain in place until spring 2026. Enjoy live music, food and beverage, meet the artists, and more at the Peoria Art Guild’s location on Harrison St. Visit peoriaartguild.org for more information on the Sculpture Walk and more Art Guild related events.

Lee Wenger stops by The Greg and Dan Show to preview the Morton Civic Chorus’ musical revue, Encore, held at the Bertha Frank Performing Arts Center in Morton from May 23-26.  Encore 2024 marks the 53rd year of raising money for patients of Chronic Kidney disease. The Morton Civic Chorus is the largest fundraising arm for the Central Illinois Memorial Kidney Fund (CIMKF). This year’s Honorary Chairman to assist with their fundraising efforts is Wayne Menold, Senior Vice President of Hometown Banks in Morton.  Visit cimkf.org for tickets and more information.

The Greg and Dan Show welcomes Bradley University Women’s Basketball Coach Kate Popovec for a preview of Coach Pop’s Basketball Skill Academy throughout June.  Coach Pop discusses the impact of the NIL Transfer Portal on collegiate athletics, the growing popularity and demand for women’s basketball, and the importance of giving the youth an opportunity to learn about the game and to hone their skills.  Coach Pop’s Basketball Skill Academy at Bradley University consists of a Kids Camp from June 4th - 6th, an Elite Camp on June 8th, and a Team Camp on June 28th. Visit coachpopbasketballcamp.com for more information.

This year marks the 50th Steamboat Classic, known as the World’s fastest 4 mile and & Illinois’ Toughest 15K.  Race Director Philip Lockwood and RC Outfitters’ Adam White talk to Greg and Dan about the history of Central Illinois’ premier running experience, the changes made throughout the years, and the excitement behind this year’s race. Visit thesteamboatclassic.org to register and for more information.

Caterpillar kicks off the summer by welcoming 625 interns at the Edwards Demonstration & Learning Center on May 14th. Roshny Archer, Caterpillar’s Talent Management Vice President, and intern Walker Shaeido join The Greg and Dan Show for a conversation on the company’s internship program, breaking down its unique “in-the-dirt” orientation, and the program’s impact on the community.

Chris Setti of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council (GPEDC) and Peoria County Administrator Scott Sorrel stop by The Greg and Dan Show for a conversation on Peoria County’s recent decision to approve a $3 million dollar loan for Natural Fiber Welding.  Setti and Sorrel dissect the County’s decision to approve the loan, the County’s “Keystone Fund” and how it benefits the economic development in the area, 

Greg and Dan talk to Pearl Technology’s Dave Johnson about the online app Temu and the network called “Bogus Bazaar.”  Johnson notes that 850,000 people have been tricked by the “Bogus Bazaar,” where apps like Temu may be stemming from, and how easily your information can be accessed and stolen.

Dan's older brother Russ Diorio, an avid storm enthusiast, finished his second time on the Silver Lining Tours storm chasing tour.  Russ joins Greg and Dan to recap on an exciting week of severe weather. the many places he visited throughout the tour, and the variations of storm the group chased.

Pekin non-profit bookstore Tails of a Bookworm is celebrating five years with a big fest on Saturday, May 11th from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Sunset Plaza.  Tails of a Bookworm President Shannon Seiss joins The Greg and Dan Show for a preview of this weekend’s festival and the bookstore’s mission to help provide local rescue animals with medical bills, food, and supplies. The Five Year Fest will feature adoptable animals, vendors, local author signings, and a raffle for a bookstore shopping spree.  For more information, find Tails of a Bookworm on Facebook. 

The Greg and Dan Show welcomes David Poehls and John Meisinger for a conversation on the Regional Office of Education’s Adult Literacy program and the upcoming Volunteer Tutor Training sessions. Poehls and Meisinger discuss the program’s impact and the importance of volunteering. The Adult Basic Literacy and ELL Volunteer Tutor Training is on May 15th and 16th at the Peoria Public Library’s North Branch from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Advanced registration is required by emailing jmeisinger@peoriaroe.org or by calling 309-472-2468.

Greg and Dan talk to Ameren’s Brian Bretsch about the popularity of Mylar balloons around this time of year and why they may be dangerous. Bretsch notes the dangers that Mylar balloons can bring to power lines and  how to properly dispose of the balloons.

Greg and Dan talk to comedian Tim Cavanagh ahead of his show at The Waterhouse in the MAXAM Building in downtown Peoria on Friday, May 10th. Cavanagh’s hilariously comedic songs and inventive stand-up style features a mix of music, jokes, and audience interaction all while presenting a set full of clean and clever material. Presented by Funny Money Inc, the show will be hosted by Mason City Limits owner Chris Speyrer and opening act local comedian Michelle DeSutter. Visit wasterhousepeoria.com for tickets and more information.

Peoria Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Anthony Marotta joins The Greg and Dan Show to preview the finale of the 126th season, Spring Virtuosi, on Saturday, May 18th at 7:30pm in the Peoria Civic Center Theater.  Spring Virtuosi features pieces from Antonin Dvorak, Johannes Brahms and Edward Elgar to celebrate the season. Cellist Richard Hirschi is the guest artist for the PSO’s grand finale.  Visit peoriasymphony.org for tickets and more information.

Tazewell County GOP Chairman Jim Rule stops by The Greg and Dan Show to talk about the recent announcement of this year’s Tazewell County and Peoria County Republicans’ Lincoln Day Dinner Keynote Speaker.  The 2024 Lincoln Day Dinner is on Saturday, June 1st from 6:00pm - 8:30pm at Four Points by Sheraton. This year’s Keynote Speaker is Speaker of the House Mike Johnson.  Visit tazewellgop.org or peoriagop.com for tickets and more information on the annual Lincoln Day Dinner event.

Greg and Dan welcome Brian Ray, PNC Regional President for Central Illinois, for a conversation on the Midwest Food Bank, PNC Bank, and Peoria Chiefs teaming up to “Strike Out Hunger.” The “Strike Out Hunger” campaign helps fight hunger in Central Illinois with every strikeout at Dozer Park. PNC Bank will donate $10 to Midwest Food Bank for each strikeout during the 2024 season.  Ray notes PNC’s commitment to the community as well as its mission to ensure and contribute to the health and economic vitality of the region. The current strikeout total at Dozer Park is 97.

Russ Diorio, brother of Dan, provides a storm chasing update after an eventful day throughout the Midwest including in Tennessee, south of Nashville.  Greg and Dan talk to Russ about the tour’s approach to viewing yesterday’s storm, where the tour is heading next, and his fascination with weather.

Greg and Dan talk to Pam Perrilles for a preview of the Cocktails for CASA event on Tuesday, May 21st from 5:30 - 7:30 PM at Clink Bar and Events in Peoria Heights.  This is the 3rd installment of this event. The Clink team will show attendees how to craft two cocktails: Wakey Wakey and House Margarita. Attendees will then get to craft the drink themselves. Food will be provided as well. The event is limited to 50 people. CASA of the Tenth Judicial Circuit stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates and is a volunteer organization that advocates for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.  Visit casaofthetenth.org to register for this event and for more information.

The Greg and Dan Show welcomes OSF Cancer Institute's first-ever Proton Beam patient Tim Scott for a conversation on his diagnosis of cancer, going through Proton Beam treatment, and his gratitude to be the first patient at the new facility in Peoria. 

Rik Edgar of the Peoria Civic Center joins Greg and Dan for a conversation on the month’s upcoming events, updated ticket systems, and the latest renovations at the PCC.  Visit peoriaciviccenter.com for more information.

Greg and Dan talk to Marylee Nunley about the 20th anniversary of the Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp. Nunley recalls how the idea for the Stroke Camp began, her husband’s progress since suffering a stroke in the early 2000s, and the rapid expansion of a Stroke Camp to states across the country. Visit strokecamp.org for more information and stay tuned for a big celebration in November. More details to come. 

Russ Diorio, Dan’s older brother, joins The Greg and Dan Show to discuss his ongoing experience on a storm chasing tour with Silver Lining Tours.  This is Russ’ second time participating in a storm chasing tour. He discusses his passion for weather, the pros and cons of storm chasing, and what the next few days may look like. Greg and Dan will keep in touch with Russ over the next few days regarding potential severe weather conditions.

Greg and Dan speak with Chris Setti of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council about the impact of Morton Industries on the Greater Peoria community and throughout the country.  Setti notes the region’s ability to both design and create products not just one or the other, how companies like Morton Industries can impact the country, and the excitement for the future of the Greater Peoria area.

Pearl Technology’s Dave Johnson joins The Greg and Dan Show to discuss more in-depth details on how the hacking group Blackcat breached United Healthcare. Johnson explains how easily Blackcat accessed information from United Healthcare and the lack of action from United Healthcare after the breach.

With storm season upon us, Greg and Dan talk to Roger Hill of Silver Lining Tours, a collective of tornado and storm chasers that offer storm chasing tours across the country.  Hill discusses his passion for storm chasing, the outlook of this week’s projected severe weather, and how the shifting of the seasons have affected storm season.  Dan's brother, Russ, is currently on one of the Silver Lining Tours in Oklahoma City. Greg and Dan will speak with him later this week. Visit silverliningtours.com for more information.

Author Robert Fromberg stops by The Greg and Dan Show to discuss his newest book, Gee, That Was Fun: 7 Days of Mayhem, 1983. Fromberg’s history-based novel was inspired by his own sickness which led him to researching Peoria’s botulism outbreak in 1983 and left him imagining what the victims went through during that period of time.  Throughout the novel, Fromberg researched other events, coincidences, bad ideas, and more that occurred during those 7 days (October 14 - 20) in New York City, Washington DC, and Peoria. Gee, That Was Fun will be available on Tuesday, May 7th wherever you get books.

Greg and Dan talk to Mary Ann Liner and Marita Hart of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nursing (AWHONN) for the North Central Illinois Chapter ahead of the 2024 Nurses Week.from May 6th - May 12th. Liner and Hart discuss the impact that Nurses provide, how nursing shortages have affected the industry, and the need to appreciate what Nurses do more. Celebrate National Nurses Week 2024 with a Virtual Happy Hour on May 6th. Email maliner@sbcglobal.net for the information.

Greg and Dan speak with Dr. Alexander Ikejiaku and BreAija Bryant of Peoria Public Schools about the first annual Multicultural Fair on Saturday, May 4 at the Peoria Riverfront Museum from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Dr. Ikejiaku and Ms. Bryant discuss the Peoria Public Schools Teacher Exchange Program and how the fair celebrates diversity and unity with the community.  Live performances, giveaways, food, and more showcasing the talents and traditions of international teachers will be featured throughout the fair. This event is free and open to the public.

Derby enthusiast and Traffic One’s Ken Zurski joins The Greg and Dan Show for a preview of this year’s Kentucky Derby and his predictions on who may take the crown.

Peoria City Soccer made a huge announcement yesterday ahead of its 2024 season.  COO Bobby Parker stops by The Greg and Dan Show to talk about the team’s expansion into international territory when the squad welcomes the U23 team for Chivas de Guadalajara for the inaugural Copa Peoria Series, a 4-day series of friendly competition from June 9-12 at Shea Stadium. Parker also highlights the exciting things coming to Peoria City games this summer such as a Kids Club, tailgating, and more.

The Greg and Dan Show welcomes Holocaust Survivor Ida Paluch Kersz, the guest speaker for the Jewish Federation of Peoria’s Yom Hashoah (Day of Holocaust Remembrance) event on Tuesday, May 7th at 7:00 PM at the Peoria Riverfront Museum.  Kersz shares her story of surviving the Holocaust, reuniting with her twin brother, and how she started volunteering for the Illinois Holocaust Museum. Visit jewishpeoria.org for more information.

Greg and Dan talk to Dr. Joseph Henry ahead of the Peoria Area Civic Chorale’s 41st Season finale concert from May 3-5 at Five Points Washington and First United Methodist.  The conclusion of the PACC’s season includes three performances of Gabriel Faure’s Requiem at 7:30 pm on Friday and Saturday at Five Points and on Sunday at 3:00 pm at First United. The first half of the concert will feature songs of hope and inspiration such as “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” “God Bless the USA,” and more. The Requiem will be accompanied by the Central Illinois Chamber Orchestra featuring guest soloists soprano Dr. Miracle Amah and baritone Mr. Andrew Sanchez. Visit peoriacivicchorale.org for tickets and more information.

Illinois Central College Music Department Chair and Professor Dr. Julie Clemens and students Abby Lowe and Mackenzie Santana join The Greg and Dan Show for a conversation on the community college’s music and arts programs.  Dr. Clemens notes the wide range of events and exciting programs happening throughout the month of May and the ICC campus. The ICC Concert Choir Spring Performance is on Sunday, May 5 at 7:00 PM featuring a variety of music from composers such as Leonard Bernstein and Moses Hogan. Admission is free and open to the public. 

Peoria Players brings the acclaimed novel and film, Big Fish, to the stage from May 3-5 and May 9-12. Greg and Dan talk to Director Chip Joyce for a preview of the popular show and what to expect from the Peoria Players’ production. Big Fish tells the story of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman that lives life to the fullest, and his epic tales fascinate everyone. Over time, his son Will sets out to discover the truth of his father’s stories. Visit peoriaplayers.org for tickets and more information.