The Kankakee Area YMCA has hired a new executive director. David Parker, a lifelong Portland-area resident and University of Oregon graduate, will be departing the Pacific Northwest region and will soon call the nation’s Midwest home.

Discount Planet, which only recently opened at 206 N. Kinzie Ave. and 265 N. Industrial Dr., both in Bradley, will soon be the occupant at the former Big Lots, 185 S. Kennedy Drive.

As a result of a mid-February fire which heavily damaged its Momence production site, Gilster-Mary Lee Corp. has announced it will not rebuilt and is leaving the area.

Restoration Works massive project to restore the windows and doors and the historic Ellis Island has begun in Bradley.

Cordes Brothers Towing at 151 Linden will offer services like U-Haul trucks, trailers, towing equipment and moving supplies.

Nelsons Home Furnishings and Outlet Center in Wilmington keeps rolling with the changes – through four generations for the longtime business.

Kankakee-based beer brewer, Knack Brewery crafts a Kankakee River Walk brew and a speakeasy location opens Kankakee's downtown.

Mistie Hill Vineyard ready to serve as owners expand Custer Park-based business.

Wine lovers now can stop at the Mistie Hill Vineyard in Custer Park to try the wines made in the Kankakee River Valley.