Kankakee Podcast

This week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News highlights some of the biggest stories around the county as of Friday, October 24, 2025. With Halloween right around the corner, Kankakee County is offering a range of festive activities, from the thrills of Rietveld’s Haunted Corn Maze in Bourbonnais to the family-friendly fun of Halloween Downtown Kankakee. Local officials are also investigating an early morning fire at an abandoned building on South Greenwood Avenue, which is believed to have been deliberately set. In other news, the Kankakee River Metropolitan Agency and the City of Kankakee have finalized a $100,000 settlement with former KRMA Executive Director Richard Simms and his daughter, closing a years-long fraud case. Meanwhile, Kankakee School District 111 celebrated the opening of its new outdoor fitness court behind Kankakee High School, promoting health, wellness, and free public access for the community.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Bill Yohnka welcomes a heartfelt lineup of storytellers for a special evening at the historic B. Harley Bradley House, Frank Lloyd Wright’s first Prairie-style home. With “home” as the night’s theme, each storyteller takes the audience on a powerful journey of what that word truly means—from rediscovering roots after years away, to finding faith and hope in unexpected places, to breaking family cycles and building safer, stronger homes for the next generation.

The night also explores the deeper emotional layers of home—how it can be a physical space, a memory, or even a person. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of Kankakee’s most iconic landmarks, this Yarn Factory Live captures stories of healing, belonging, and transformation that remind us that home is not always where we start, but where we finally find peace.

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In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor recaps the top local stories from around Kankakee County. A grain bin collapse in Martinton spilled tons of corn and caused power outages for more than 160 Ameren customers, though no injuries were reported. The Kankakee County Board recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month alongside Harbor House leaders, highlighting over 45 years of service to local survivors. Kankakee police recovered multiple firearms and arrested three suspects during a search on South Greenwood Avenue. In Bradley, a high school student was taken into custody after allegedly threatening to bring a weapon to school, prompting a strong police response. And finally, reports of ICE operations in Kankakee sparked fear and confusion among residents, leading some families and businesses to temporarily close as officials reiterated local law enforcement’s limited involvement.

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In this episode of Kankakee Podcast, Drew Raisor sits down with Jen Norton, owner of All You Need Cleaning Services, to talk about her inspiring journey from 22 years as a 911 dispatcher to running her own thriving cleaning business in Kankakee County. Jen shares how a difficult season in her life became the push she needed to pursue her passion, turning a side job into a full-time business that now supports a growing team and dozens of local clients.

She opens up about the challenges of leadership, learning to delegate, and finding balance between work and life while staying true to her values. From supporting families through tough times to helping homes feel whole again, Jen’s story is one of perseverance, heart, and community impact.

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In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers the top local stories from around Kankakee County. Baker & Taylor has closed its Momence distribution center, leaving hundreds unemployed as officials work to assist displaced workers. Consumer advocates are challenging Nicor Gas’ proposed rate hike, calling for reductions to protect customers. The Kankakee Police Department promoted Jose Diaz to sergeant, marking an important career milestone and increasing local representation. Sunrise Center Animal Rescue is gearing up for its Trunk-or-Treat event to raise awareness and support for pet adoptions. Meanwhile, Bourbonnais continues to refine its Riverfront Park master plan following strong community input and a major land donation.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Drew Raisor sits down with Leslee Schafer and Megan Turner, the compassionate founders of Our Aging Services. Together, they’re on a mission to guide both seniors and families of individuals with special needs through some of life’s most challenging transitions. Drawing from their own personal experiences—a daughter on the autism spectrum and a son with complex medical needs—Leslee and Megan have built an organization that helps others navigate the overwhelming systems of Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, long-term care, and disability resources.

Throughout the conversation, they share heartfelt insights about advocating with kindness, why early planning is crucial, and how small acts of compassion can make a life-changing difference. They also discuss their innovative community project, the Café of Mistaken Orders, which creates a space for understanding and empathy toward those living with dementia. From helping families “age out” of school services to helping older adults “age on” with dignity, this episode shines a light on the power of connection, advocacy, and care across generations

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In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor shares the top stories from around the county. Bourbonnais driver Austin McCarty captured his second straight Pro Late Model championship at Kankakee County Speedway in a season marked by family tragedy. Fortitude Community Outreach announced a new “hotel shelter model” for the winter after the city denied its request to operate an overnight shelter on East Court. The annual St. Anne Pumpkin Festival returns with dozens of local vendors and fall favorites. Animal shelters in both Kankakee and Iroquois counties are struggling with urgent volunteer and donation needs. Finally, the Citizens Utility Board is warning ComEd customers of winter electricity rate hikes averaging 10–15 percent.

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In this episode of Kankakee Podcast, Drew sits down with Hollie to talk about her inspiring journey of resilience, faith, and transformation. From facing unexpected challenges in life to discovering strength through fitness and her relationship with God, Hollie opens up about what it means to keep moving forward even when the road gets tough.

She shares how working out became more than just exercise — it became a lifeline for mental clarity, emotional healing, and building confidence. Hollie also talks about the importance of surrounding yourself with the right community, setting goals, and keeping faith at the center of it all.

This heartfelt conversation is a reminder that no matter where you’re at, it’s never too late to choose joy, embrace growth, and keep pressing on.

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In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers the latest stories from around the county. Manteno’s 27th annual Oktoberfest kicked off at Heritage Park, bringing live music, food, and family fun through the weekend. In Bradley, Village Clerk Kelli Brza resigned as she prepares to relocate to California, with Deputy Clerk Kym Nelson filling in until a replacement is named. The Kankakee School District 111 board voted 5–2 to officially appoint James Henderson as Assistant Superintendent of People Services after serving in the interim role for nearly a year. The Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School District 307 board passed its Fiscal Year 2026 budget, projecting a surplus while allocating funds for the $70 million “Building Better” project. Finally, Illinois State Police are renewing calls for information in the unsolved 2007 double homicide of Pamela Branka and Paul Jones at the Momence Burger King, urging anyone with knowledge to come forward.

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In this episode of Kankakee Podcast, Drew sits down with Adelynn McBurnie — one of Kankakee County’s most sought-after hairstylists. From her early start in cosmetology school at just 16, to building a loyal clientele and finding her home at Polaris Salon, Adelynn shares her story of passion, perseverance, and personal growth.

She opens up about what drew her to the beauty industry, the lessons learned along the way, and why building genuine relationships with her clients matters just as much as great hair. Adelynn also talks about balancing creativity, confidence, and the business side of being her own boss — all while creating a space where clients feel seen and cared for.

Whether you’re chasing a dream, building a business, or just love a good transformation story, this conversation will leave you inspired.

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