Kankakee Podcast

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Andrew McBurney sits down with Sharla Ronchetto of the Kankakee Valley Theatre Association to talk about their upcoming holiday production, The Christmas Schooner. Based on true Great Lakes history, the musical follows a fictional family inspired by the real “Christmas tree ships” that carried evergreens from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to German immigrants in Chicago during the late 1800s. Sharla shares the richness of the show’s music — beautiful four-part harmonies, choral storytelling, and even a live harp in the pit — along with the emotional heart of the story, which centers on nostalgia, family traditions, and the joy of giving.

She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at directing inside KVTA’s Black Box Theatre, navigating a 16-member cast in an intimate space, and balancing dramatic storytelling with light comedic moments. With one weekend of performances — December 5th–7th — this warm, heartfelt musical is designed for families, holiday lovers, and anyone looking for a meaningful start to the Christmas season. Tickets and details are available at kvta.org.

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On this episode of Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raisor sits down once again with Jeff Cross to talk about Ordinary Dads, a local group of about 15 fathers who come together each holiday season to sing Christmas music and raise money for families in need.

Jeff shares the humble beginnings of the group, why “ordinary” is the point, and how a handful of dads with varying levels of musical ability create something meaningful through just eight practices a year. Drew and Jeff discuss the group’s upcoming 2025 performances, the family-friendly atmosphere, and the joy — and humor — that comes from watching everyday dads step onstage in ugly sweaters to sing their hearts out.

This year, Ordinary Dads is supporting two local families:
• The Ericksons, whose young son Bedford has a rare neurological condition and needs accessible playground accommodations
• The Dalton family, as their daughter Megan finishes treatment for non-Hodgkin’s leukemia

Jeff also talks about group growth, the challenges of scheduling dads, the thought behind not overcommitting the group, and how the community’s support has led to standing-room-only shows.

If you’ve ever wondered what can happen when everyday people come together with simple intentions and big hearts, this episode is for you

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In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor delivers the top headlines from around the county. Kankakee officials announced stricter enforcement of snow-route parking regulations this winter, emphasizing towing for vehicles blocking priority streets once snowfall reaches two inches. Illinois residents will see lower Thanksgiving costs this year as turkey prices fall more than 16 percent, bringing the average cost of a classic dinner for 10 down to $49.20 statewide. Manteno approved a new short-term rental ordinance for Airbnb and VRBO hosts, removing several proposed requirements and omitting a 5% hotel tax while strengthening tools to address problem properties. The Relay for Life of Kankakee County fundraiser exceeded expectations, raising more than $255,000 for cancer research and patient support programs. Finally, the Illinois Commerce Commission reduced Nicor Gas’s proposed rate hike by nearly half, lowering its profit rate and expanding protections for low-income customers.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Andrew McBurnie welcomes members of the Kankakee Valley Theatre Association to talk about their upcoming production of My Son Pinocchio Jr., a heartwarming and family-friendly twist on the classic Disney tale. Director Pat Ward and cast member Ella Nitschke, who stars as the Blue Fairy, share what audiences can expect from this magical musical — from its playful humor and tap-dancing fairies to the deeper themes of family, forgiveness, and what it means to be “perfect.”

Pat reflects on her decades-long journey in community theater, while Ella brings insight into the fun and challenges of bringing a timeless story to life on stage. Together, they talk about the show’s beautiful message, its connection to the Kankakee community, and why live theater continues to be such an important part of local culture. Performances take place November 22–23 at the Lincoln Cultural Center, with tickets available at kvta.org.

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In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers the top headlines from across Kankakee County. Hundreds gathered at the Kankakee County Museum for the annual Veterans Day ceremony, celebrating service members of every background and their lasting contributions to the community. Otis Story Sr. has resigned as CEO of St. Mary’s Hospital, with Luis Leon stepping in as interim leader as Prime Healthcare continues facility upgrades. The Village of Bradley approved a $1.07 million project to expand the 315 Sports Park maintenance facility, addressing space needs for its growing operations. State Representative Jackie Haas announced she is undergoing cancer treatment, assuring supporters her outlook remains positive and her work will continue. And finally, firefighters in Kankakee Township battled a large early-morning structure fire, rescuing a cat and preventing further damage.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raisor sits down with Ebenezer “EB” Gideon of Fitness Premier talk about the balance between training hard and recovering smart. EB shares how his background in sports led him to study the mechanics of the human body — and how understanding movement, injury, and stability can completely change the way people train.

From fixing pain that’s been around for years to helping clients prepare for their first powerlifting competitions, EB’s approach goes beyond workouts — it’s about healing, confidence, and longevity. The conversation covers everything from the science of recovery and the importance of stability to fitness myths, the benefits of saunas, and why mindset matters more than motivation. It’s an inspiring and practical look at how the right training philosophy can change more than just your body — it can change your life.

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In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor recaps the top local headlines from around Kankakee County. The popular New York City Deli is expanding to a second location in downtown Kankakee, with plans to open in spring 2026 following a $345,000 renovation supported by a city TIF incentive. Kankakee Community College announced its upcoming “Explore KCC Day,” inviting prospective students to learn about academic programs, financial aid, and campus life. In Bourbonnais, village trustees approved the purchase of a 2.19-acre parcel from Olivet Nazarene University to further development plans near The Grove. Manteno officials are weighing a proposal to apply the village’s 5% hotel tax to short-term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo, potentially generating new tourism revenue. And finally, the March 2026 primary ballot is taking shape, with multiple contested county board races and a challenge to County Clerk Dan Hendrickson for the first time since 2018.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raisor sits down with Erica Billingsley, owner of Polaris Salon in Bourbonnais and a certified trichologist—a specialist in scalp health and hair loss. With over 25 years in the industry, Erica shares how her passion for beauty and science led her from cosmetology school to becoming one of the few trichologists in the region. She opens up about the emotional side of hair loss, how water and lifestyle affect our hair and scalp, and the therapies that can help restore both confidence and health.

From her start as a colorist to opening Polaris, Erica’s story is one of growth, education, and purpose. She discusses her commitment to creating a welcoming, educational space for clients and stylists alike—where science meets self-care and everyone can feel confident in their own skin.

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It’s Halloween night in Kankakee County, and the Kankakee Podcast News team is wishing everyone a safe and spooky evening filled with costumes, candy, and community fun. This week’s episode covers the official trick-or-treat times across the county, along with the latest local headlines. The Illinois State Police have turned over the results of their investigation into several Watseka Police Department officers to a special prosecutor. In Oswego, a 19-year-old Kankakee man faces multiple felony charges following a fatal stabbing at a Chick-fil-A. The Bourbonnais Township Park District celebrates the retirement of longtime IT administrator Frank Cianci after 12 years of service, and the Village of Bradley prepares for its 40th annual Lighted Christmas Parade, themed “A Christmas Jubilee on Gingerbread Lane.” Finally, Manteno police arrest a man accused of driving his vehicle toward two local teens.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Drew Raisor sits down with Keegan Mraz, co-owner of four Fitness Premier locations, to talk about the mindset, discipline, and hard work behind building both muscle and a business. From his start as an electrician fresh out of high school to becoming a multi-club owner, Keegan shares how fitness transformed his confidence, energy, and purpose — and why he’s passionate about helping others experience the same change.

He opens up about the lessons learned from long hours, tough setbacks, and leading a team built on care, honesty, and consistency. The conversation dives deep into what it really takes to create a lasting fitness journey, from nutrition and mindset to the power of simply showing up. It’s an inspiring look at how self-improvement inside the gym can build strength in every area of life.

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