Join host Jake LaMore as he delivers the latest headlines from Kankakee and its surrounding areas on this debut episode of Kankakee Podcast News. From a devastating fire at a Bradley tobacco shop to a tragic fatal collision in Grant Park, Jake covers the week's most significant events impacting the local community. Discover updates on law enforcement efforts, community initiatives, and political forums, including the latest on former President Trump's presence on the Republican Party Primary Ballots in Kankakee County. Stay informed about upcoming events, such as the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge, while also learning about new developments in local businesses and cultural institutions. Plus, get a sneak peek into Monday's episode featuring guest host Derek Grant and special guest JaHana Holloway. Don't miss out on this comprehensive recap of the week's news in Kankakee. Tune in now to stay connected with your community!

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When I started Kankakee Podcast, my goal was to create a platform for the people and places right here at home in Kankakee County. 

I am excited to share that the podcast will soon be expanding into news coverage. Every Friday starting March 1st, we will be releasing short episodes covering the top local stories from the past week. This will allow us to focus on the things happening here and now, in a shorter and more concentrated format. 

Thank you for listening and supporting the podcast, and make sure to catch the first episode of Kankakee Podcast News this Friday, March 1st.

Sincerely,
Jake LaMore

P.S. Have local news to share? Email it to me for possible news coverage: [email protected]

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In this captivating episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore, alongside guests Jory Walters and Jack Klasey, journey through the fascinating history of Pembroke Township, unveiling the stories of its earliest African American settlers and their enduring legacy. We delve into the past, exploring how families like the Tedders set down roots and contributed to the fabric of the Kankakee community, touching on the possibility of Pembroke Township's role in the Underground Railroad.

We highlight key figures like Virginia Porter, Kankakee County's first African American reporter, whose work illumines the genealogical threads of local Black families. Listen in on the engrossing tale of the Slowtracks’ arrival in Kankakee and the surprising role figures like Al Capone played in the African American music scene during Prohibition.

As the episode unfolds, we confront the present-day realities of Pembroke Township—a region grappling with economic challenges yet rich with history and potential, underscored by poignant narratives within the Kankakee County Museum’s exhibit. We examine how past and present intersect, creating a story of resilience, cultural accomplishment, and community spirit.

Tune in to discover the depth of Kankakee's African American heritage, the societal impacts over the years, and the inspiring individuals who have made Kankakee what it is today. Join us on the Kankakee Podcast for an episode that promises to both educate and inspire, shedding light on significant chapters in our shared history.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore is honored to feature Dr. Leonard Porter, an illuminating figure in the community, who shares his deeply personal and historical insights into the Black experience. From opening recovery homes to preserving the legacies within the Alkebulan History Center in Kankakee, Dr. Porter’s narrative traverses the painful memories of slavery, his family's experiences, and the transformative power of education and healing.

Listeners will be riveted by stories of resilience, from Dr. Porter's grandmother's struggles with slavery to his establishment of a veteran's recovery home that has touched thousands of lives. The episode also sheds light on Dr. Porter's commitment to teaching, his immense contributions to mental health, and the pioneering work that led to ground-breaking community initiatives.

Dr. Porter and Jake delve into the Alkebulan History Center’s captivating exhibits, like the Stereotype Room, and discuss the powerful artifacts that tell the untold stories of Black heroes. No stone is left unturned in this rich dialogue that explores the breadth of Black history, from tragedy to triumph.

Tune in for an unforgettable journey through time with the Kankakee Podcast, where history is not just recounted but palpably felt through Dr. Porter’s vivid storytelling and Jake's engaging conversation. This episode is a profound celebration of Black heritage and the relentless spirit of discovery and education.

Join us for a thought-provoking session that honors the past, informs the present, and inspires a united path forward. Get ready for an educational odyssey with Dr. Porter that promises to enlighten and affect hearts and minds.

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In this heartwarming episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Marci Sadler, one of the owners of the historic Majestic theater in Downtown Kankakee. The duo discusses the upcoming Majestic Wedding Expo, an event that offers a one-stop shop for all your wedding needs. Marci shares insights on the event, the vendors, and the free giveaways, and even details a bingo game with a grand prize of a free wedding at the Majestic.

The captivating conversation delves into the changing trends in weddings, emphasizing the importance of making your special day unique and stress-free. Marci provides invaluable tips for couples just starting to plan their weddings and stresses the significance of clear communication.

Tune in to get a sneak peek of what to expect at the Majestic Wedding Expo, discover the latest wedding trends, and gain valuable insights on planning a stress-free and memorable wedding. Plus, find out how the Majestic continues to be a cornerstone of the local community, with additional businesses in the building opening their doors for this special event.

Join Jake and Marci as they showcase the magic of the Majestic and the fantastic opportunities that the Wedding Expo promises, making this a must-listen for anyone planning a wedding or looking for a delightful local event in Kankakee!

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In this industrious installment of the Kankakee Podcast, our very own Jake LaMore dives into the mechanics of Crown Holdings’ impressive operation with esteemed guests Juan Guzman and Ray Garcia. As we peel back the aluminum curtain of the Bradley plant, we uncover the riveting journey of 12-ounce cans that quench the thirst of millions. This episode celebrates the mastery of manufacturing that takes place right in our backyard.

From the clanking symphony of machinery that might be mistaken for disco beats to the delicate dance of printing and varnishing, Juan and Ray guide us through the plant's relentless pursuit to churn out 6 million cans daily. As Crown's human resources manager, Juan brings nearly a decade of expertise to the table, explaining how a focus on employee engagement and reducing equipment speeds has led to an astounding 2 billion cans produced annually. Ray, with his diverse background, shares insights into the plant's complex processes, from trimming to testing.

This episode is a testament to Kankakee's industrious heart, as Crown Holdings artfully combines efficiency with environmental stewardship. We gain a renewed appreciation for the ubiquitous aluminum can as our guests highlight community efforts in recycling education – from school programs to reducing landfill waste, the commitment to sustainability is clear.

Plus, there’s something quite personal for Juan – the pride in spotting and purchasing cans his plant produced, identifiable by their unique codes, right from the grocery shelf.

So, pop a tab and settle in for an episode that delves deep into the elegant engineering and community spirit that keep our favorite beverages just a can away. Tune in for a glimpse into the ingenuity that powers Kankakee’s Crown Holdings and the daily lives of those who craft these containers with care.

And remember, the next time you recycle that aluminum can, you’re part of a much larger story of sustainability and community pride.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore chats with local plumber Kevin "Mitch" Mitchell about his viral meme from five years ago, which humorously mimicked Maroon 5 lead singer Adam Levine's "California" tattoo by writing "Illinois" on his stomach during the Super Bowl halftime show. They discuss the meme's explosive online spread, the unexpected media attention, and how Mitch handled the fame. The episode also touches on Mitch's background, his work, and his connection to Kankakee. Mitch reflects on the experience, noting the community's support and how he has embraced Kankakee as his home.

Mitch's meme was an instant hit. Within an hour, it garnered a thousand shares, and by the next morning, it had reached 20,000. The Kankakee local had become an internet sensation, and his life was about to change. As we discussed the whirlwind of attention, Mitch recounted waking up to messages from old friends and seeing his face on WGN news. The meme's reach was undeniable, and it was reshaping his everyday life.

How did he handle the spotlight? What was his response to the accidental hit sensation? You'll just have to tune in!

As we look forward to another Super Bowl weekend, Mitch and I want to remind everyone to celebrate responsibly. If you're enjoying some drinks, do it safely at home or arrange a ride. Let's make this weekend memorable for all the right reasons!

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Kankakee Valley Theatre Association presents...

THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD ~ Based on Charles Dickens’ final unfinished novel, this hilarious whodunit invites the audience to solve its mystery by choosing the identity of the murderer. The tale is presented as a show-within-a-show, as the Music Hall Royale - a delightfully loony Victorian theatre company - presents Dickens’ brooding mystery. Musical numbers include “Perfect Strangers,” “Don’t Quit While You’re Ahead,” “Off To The Races” and “Moonfall.”

In this podcast episode, host Jake Elmore talks with Tyler McMahon, director of "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" at the Kankakee Valley Theater Association. They reminisce about past theater experiences and delve into the intricacies of the current production. Tyler discusses the challenges actors face when playing characters within characters and the unique audience participation element where the show's ending is determined by audience vote, with 44 possible outcomes. The conversation highlights the show's blend of humor, mystery, and the immersive experience it provides, as well as the dedication of the cast and crew in bringing this complex and interactive musical to life.

GET YOUR TICKETS

SHOWTIMES

Saturday, February 3 ~ 7:00 PM
Sunday, February 4 ~ 2:00 PM
Friday, February 9 ~ 7:00 PM
Saturday, February 10 ~ 7:00 PM

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Join Jake LaMore on a journey through the immigrant history of Kankakee County with Jack Klasey and Jorie Walters from the Kankakee County Museum. In this episode, the trio unravels the unique and vibrant stories of various ethnic groups that have shaped the rich tapestry of Kankakee's cultural landscape.

Together we navigate through the early waves of immigration during the county's formation, where settlers moved westward in pursuit of land and community. Discover the pivotal role played by churches in uniting diverse ethnic communities, each with its distinct place of worship, creating a mosaic of cultural expression.

The hosts share insights into specific settlements like French Heritage, Pembroke, and the post-World War I African American settlers in Pembroke. Uncover the economic motivations that influenced immigration patterns, from working in tree nurseries to the coal mining business.

Explore the impactful stories of historical figures, such as an escaped slave celebrating freedom in the 1900s and Governor Shapiro's crucial role in supporting the Jewish community. As we trace the immigration timeline, we witness the transformation of Kankakee County from a collection of ethnic churches to the diverse and interconnected community it is today.

As we end our time together we reflect on the modern influx of Hispanic immigrants in the last few decades, reshaping the demographic landscape of Kankakee County. Join the hosts as they weave together intimate stories of migration, settlement, and the evolving cultural heritage of this extraordinary region.

This episode is a journey through time, celebrating the people and places that make Kankakee County what it is today. So, if you're as curious as I am about the stories that have shaped our community, tune in to the Kankakee Podcast. Let's uncover the past together and maybe, just maybe, we'll find a piece of ourselves along the way.

Remember, history isn't just about dates and documents; it's about the human experience. And I love getting to share these experiences with you!

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Jake warmly welcomes the incredibly knowledgeable realtor Lisa Sanford to the studio. Lisa is here to spill the beans on all things related to the Kankakee County real estate market. She dives deep into the intricate details of real estate transactions, shining a light on key aspects like the significance of getting to grips with closing costs and the ins and outs of title insurance rates.

Lisa doesn't just stop there; she's full of savvy advice on how to make your offer stand out from the crowd in those nail-biting multiple offer scenarios. And guess what? It's not always about flashing the cash with the highest bid. She talks about the power of solid financing and the impact of earnest money. Plus, Lisa highlights the crucial role of attorneys in smoothing out the transaction process and the absolute necessity of due diligence, such as conducting thorough home inspections.

Throughout the conversation, it's impossible to miss Lisa's deep-seated love for Kankakee County. She paints a picture of a region rich in diversity and brimming with community spirit—a place she clearly holds dear to her heart.

As we bring the curtains down on this episode, Jake takes a moment to extend a heartfelt thank you to Lisa for her invaluable insights. He also gives a shout-out to the folks at Pathfinder for their stellar production work and to Lupe Carol for providing that catchy theme tune that we just can't get enough of. Thanks for tuning in, and we can't wait to share more enlightening conversations with you in the episodes to come!

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