Join hosts Mike Tomano and Rob West on this special edition of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings as they welcome a gridiron legend to the WVLI studio. In this episode, the team sits down with John Damore, the oldest living Chicago Bear.

Drafted in the 1950s, John offers a unique perspective on how the NFL has evolved over the last 70 years. From the brutal physical nature of the historic Bears-Packers rivalry to the modern-day emphasis on the passing game, John breaks down the differences between the golden era of football and today's league.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Living History: John recounts his playing days (1957–1959) and sharing the roster with legends like Ed Brown and Rick Casares.
• The Rivalry: Firsthand stories about the intensity of playing against the Green Bay Packers and taking the train to away games.
• The Draft Story: How the New York Giants tried to sign John with a $500 cash bonus right before he left for the Marine Corps.
• Current Season Analysis: John shares his thoughts on the current Bears roster, the nail-biting 4th quarter comebacks, and the team's Super Bowl potential.
• Halas & McCaskey: A touching story about Virginia McCaskey and why John believes George Halas was the true MVP of the franchise.

Whether you are a die-hard Chicago sports fan, a Northwestern Wildcats alum, or a lover of NFL history, this interview is packed with nostalgia, insight, and local pride.

Listen now to hear the incredible journey of a local hero and NFL veteran.

Want more from the WVLI Podcast Network? Listen to the WVLI News Update with Rob West every weekday morning! Get the days local news from the greater Kankakee County, IL area in 10 minutes or less. 

Subscribe now on your preferred podcast platform: https://wvlinewsupdate.buzzsprout.com

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