Greg & Dan Show Interviews

Greg and Dan talk to Kim Sanders, director of Peoria’s Fine Art Fair, and Megan Scott, new executive director of Peoria’s Art Guild, about the upcoming event on Saturday, September 27th from 10 AM-5 PM and Sunday, September 28th from 10 AM-4 PM. They discuss Megan’s background and journey to her current role, and share their excitement about the fair - especially how it inspires children to explore, engage, and spark a lifelong interest in art. With around 100 talented artists showcasing their work, it’s a competition to be part of this incredible event!

Attendees can also enjoy entertainment at the CEFCU stage both days, featuring live music, jazz, wine, and so much more. It’s a celebration of creativity for all ages!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk to Andy Empey, co-director of the Morton High School Marching Bands, about the “Morton High School Marching Invitational” happening Saturday, September 27th. Doors open at 3:00 PM with awards at 9:00 PM. The event will feature 14 incredible bands judged by 9 experts, including the renowned Bands of America. Andy also shares how proud he is of Morton’s students and their impressive dedication and hard work this season.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Peoria City Manager Patrick Urich about what a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district is and how it helps cities attract new investment. He explains how time, resources, and effort all play a role in making these projects successful. Patrick also shares updates on the Northwoods Mall property and surrounding commercial areas, the PNC Bank project, and the Expo Gardens project, along with his vision for the future and mission of the City of Peoria.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with special guest, Arturo Sierra aka "Wrench Guy", who surprises Dan with a delicious treat and shares his passion for cooking. Way to go, Art!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk to Pastor Randy of the Teen Challenge Greater Midwest Organization about their mission to provide hope, healing, and life transformation for those struggling with addiction. He shares their vision of expanding services to women and children, emphasizing their passion for helping everyone build a brighter future and become role models within the community.

Pastor Randy also highlights their upcoming event, “Celebrating 25 Years of Miracles,” happening Tuesday, October 7th at Embassy Suites. The evening will honor the success and legacy of Teen Challenge with family testimonies, alumni, graduates, and much more. Tickets are $60 and available at www.atcgm.org, but don’t wait! The reservation deadline is October 2nd!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk to Abby Brighton, Development Director at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois, about the House’s mission of providing comfort, care, and support to families with seriously ill children. She shares who helps fundraise to keep the program thriving and highlights their upcoming Red Shoe Gala on Friday, October 3rd at Embassy Suites from 5:30-10:00 PM. The evening will feature live music, culinary delights, and casino fun, all while making a powerful impact on families in our community. Tickets are $150 and available at www.RMHC/centralillinois.com.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk to Chris Setti of the Greater Peoria Economic Development Council as he expands on their discussion from last week about average weekly wages. Chris shares research on why Peoria’s wage numbers look so negative compared to other regions, pointing to factors like the overall economy and the manufacturing landscape. He also highlights a silver lining: the Peoria area benefits from lower housing costs and affordability compared to many other places. Plus, Chris explains how his team is studying future opportunities in energy, artificial intelligence, and other key areas that could shape the region’s growth.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk to Dave Johnson of Pearl Technology about the rise of bots on social media and why it’s such a major issue today. These bots can steal your profile picture, impersonate you, or even create fake posts that look like they came from you. Roughly 20-30% of online interactions are with bots, and that number can spike to 50% during elections, big weekends, or major trending events. Social media and technology have never been more complicated!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with agricultural expert DeLoss Jahnke to dive into the major concerns farmers are facing right now. From combine breakdowns and the rising risk of fires in these extremely dry conditions, to the lasting effects of tariffs, tough weather patterns, and challenges smaller farmers are up against - there’s a lot at stake. DeLoss stresses the urgent need for rain to help repair the damage after weeks of drought. He also shares insight on wild boars threatening crops in other areas, while locally, deer remain the bigger challenge.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Dan talk with Kaitlyn McVey from the American Heart Association about the upcoming Peoria Heart Ball on Friday, October 3rd from 6:00 - 10:00 PM at the Par-A-Dice Hotel in East Peoria!

The Peoria Heart Ball is more than just an elegant evening, it’s a powerful movement to unite the community in fighting heart disease and stroke. This event celebrates bold strides in funding science, improving health outcomes, and honoring the heroes and supporters who are making a lasting impact. Together, the Heart of Peoria campaign is all about saving lives, inspiring change, and fighting for every heart, every day.

For tickets and more information, visit www.ahaspringfieldil.ejoinme.org

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.