Greg & Dan Show Interviews

Greg talks to Ayana Thompson, actress with Peoria Players, about their upcoming production “A Toast to Q: Celebrating the Music of Quincy Jones,” happening January 3rd and 4th. Ayana shares how the idea for the show came together, what brought it to life, and how past performances have been received with overwhelming enthusiasm.

She also previews the incredible range of artists and musical eras featured in the show, highlighting what audiences can expect from this high-energy tribute celebrating the legendary impact of Quincy Jones.

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Greg and Dan talk to Jon Rocke, Executive Director of Pathway Ministries, about their impactful “Reclaimed” program—a hands-on initiative that restores lives, renews hope, and repurposes pallets while teaching real-world job readiness skills and encouraging participants every step of the way. Jon shares how this program is changing lives and strengthening the community by giving people purpose, dignity, and a fresh start.

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Greg and Dan talk to Ellen Enright and Katie Fitch of the Picket Fence Foundation in Chillicothe about their nonprofit mission to create meaningful employment and opportunities for adults with disabilities, and how the organization got its start.

They share how the foundation has grown into a supportive community featuring a garden center, gift shop, and daily acts of kindness, fueled by enthusiasm, teamwork, and a genuine love for giving back. They also highlight their upcoming Christmas Light Event on Sunday, December 21st from 4–7 PM, and tease exciting plans for when they reopen in May 2026 with brand-new inventory throughout the shop.

For more information, visit www.picketfencefoundation.org

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Greg and Dan talk to Dr. Chris Reynolds, Director of Bradley University Athletics, about a special reunion happening on January 24th celebrating the 20th, 30th, and 40th anniversaries of iconic Bradley Athletics teams.

Dr. Reynolds shares who may be returning for the celebration, reflects on the history of each team, and explains why honoring tradition and legacy is so important. He also highlights how today’s Bradley students are the leaders of tomorrow and how confidence, growth, and mentorship play a major role in future success.

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Greg and Dan talk to performers Barry Cloyd and Brian “Fox” Ellis about why the winter solstice is meaningful to them and their upcoming Celtic Winter Solstice Celebration at The Fox Pub on Monday, December 22nd. Doors open at 6:00 PM with the show starting at 7:00 PM, featuring music, storytelling, humor, and a warm Celtic spirit to welcome the season.

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Greg and Dan talk to Kitty Yanko of the Peoria Humane Society about the Art of Animal Adoption Exhibit and the vision of bringing animals and art together in one meaningful space. Local artist and veteran Jacob Hornback is featured with six original paintings on display throughout December, highlighting the healing power of pets while encouraging animal adoption and supporting suicide prevention awareness through art. Kitty also shares details about the Peoria Humane Society’s holiday gift-wrapping fundraiser happening December 20th and 21st from 12-3 PM at Northwoods Mall, where donations directly support animals in need.

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Greg talks to Dobie Maxwell, comedian and performer, about his upcoming stand-up show on Friday, December 19th at Third Chance at 3300 Event Center. Doors open at 7:00 PM with the show starting at 8:00 PM, hosted by comedian Matt Blindstein.

Dobie shares what he loves about performing live, how different venues and cities shape his comedy, and what keeps him energized after years on stage. He also talks about his time in Chicago and Milwaukee radio, his wide-ranging career, and why connecting with audiences everywhere still means so much to him.

For more information, email [email protected] and for tickets and show information, visit www.blindstein.com! 

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Greg and Dan talk to Brian Ray of PNC about several impactful initiatives happening right now across the community. He shares details on the Food Boxes program, a partnership with the Salvation Army and Midwest Food Bank, where boxes filled with food, books, gift certificates, and holiday gifts are being packed and distributed to families in need at Northwoods Mall from 8:00 AM–6:00 PM today and tomorrow.

Brian also highlights PNC’s fun and festive Christmas Price Index, which breaks down how much the items from “The 12 Days of Christmas” would cost today. He talks about the upcoming PNC New Year’s Eve Kids Countdown at the Peoria Civic Center from 3:00-5:45 PM, giving families a safe, exciting way for kids to celebrate with food, vendors, and activities. He wraps up by sharing PNC’s partnerships with the Chicago Bears and Peoria Rivermen, supporting literacy and early childhood education across Central Illinois.

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Greg talks to Rik Edgar, General Manager of the Peoria Civic Center, about exciting national recognition for Peoria’s entertainment venues. Pollstar recently ranked the Prairie Home Alliance Theater at #50 nationally, with the Peoria Civic Center Arena landing in the top 100 which is huge news for the community. He explains what Pollstar is and why these rankings matter not just locally, but on a national scale.

He also shares what set this year apart, how the Civic Center is always looking ahead, and highlights several holiday events still to come this season. He credits the dedication of the staff for the continued success and says their passion and care truly show in everything happening at the Civic Center as they look forward to the new year!

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Greg talks to Brian Barron, firefighter, about WHIP (Washington Helps Its People) and its collaboration with the annual Washington Fire Department Santa Parade happening Thursday, December 18th from 5:30-7:30 PM. The parade will travel more than 12 miles through Washington, spreading holiday cheer with festive decorations and entertainment, all while collecting non-perishable food items to support WHIP and local families in need.

Brian also shares that donations can be dropped off outside of the parade during WHIP’s regular donation hours on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month from 8:30–11:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM.

For more information, visit www.whipfoodpantry.org and the Washington Chamber event page.

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