Kankakee Podcast

In this special on-location bonus episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore visits the press box at Momence High School to sit down with Coach Cherry, the athletic director, and former track coach. They delve into the exciting return of track meets to Momence after a two-decade hiatus. Coach Cherry recounts the history of the track facility, the remarkable renovations that have taken place, and the significance of hosting meets at home turf, which rekindles local enthusiasm and participation.

Explore the journey from a deteriorated track that was virtually unusable for practices, to a state-of-the-art facility with a synthetic turf, rubberized track, and advanced timing systems. Cherry shares insights into the mental fortitude required in track sports, and how he cultivated that spirit in his athletes. The upgrades have led to record participant numbers, echoing the sentiment "build it, and they will come."

Listen to hear about the challenges and excitement of hosting the first track meet in 20 years, the role of community support, and even unique concession plans featuring Rosa Carroll's authentic tacos! Tune in to learn how a community investment in athletics can transform the experience for both athletes and the local community. Don't miss the chance to witness this historic revival and support the Momence athletes.

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In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore is joined by Kankakee County Museum's Jack Klasey and Jory Walters. Together, they dive deep into the rich history of Bourbonnais as it celebrates its 150th anniversary. The episode takes listeners on a journey through time, from the early beginnings of Bourbonnais with figures like Noel Levasseur and Francois Bourbonnet Sr. to the arrival of the French Canadians and the establishment of key institutions such as Maternity BVM Church and St. Viator College.

The conversation sheds light on the story behind significant historical landmarks, like the log cabin schoolhouse and the church's stonework that echoes Quebec's architectural style. Jack and Jory also discuss the role of influential personalities, including Father Charles Chiniquy and how his ambitions led to the founding of the St. Anne Colony.

Listeners will discover how Bourbonnais evolved over the years, maintaining its agricultural roots while gradually expanding in population, thanks in part to industry and educational institutions like Olivet Nazarene University. The episode concludes with reflections on Bourbonnais's vibrant community spirit, acknowledging those who contributed to its storied past and its future.

Tune in to celebrate Bourbonnais' birthday and explore how a small settlement blossomed into one of Kankakee County's cherished towns!

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Big things are happening in Kankakee County! Bradley is moving forward with a massive indoor water park and preparing to open its long-awaited sports complex. Meanwhile, Bourbonnais kicks off a year-long celebration for its 150th anniversary. Plus, we highlight inspiring local success stories, including a Kankakee native earning a top military honor and Consciousness Magazine’s induction into the Kankakee County Museum. Tune in for all the latest updates!

Thank you to Kankakee Community College Continuing Education and Business Partnerships for being our Title Sponsor for the month of March! Learn more: http://www.kcc.edu/continuinged

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In this election special episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore welcomes Joel Gesky, a candidate running for the position of mayor in Manteno. With 18 years of experience as a trustee on the village board, Joel discusses his journey from a suburb south of Chicago to becoming a community leader in Manteno.

The conversation covers Manteno's historical growth challenges and significant achievements, such as the village's financial strategies and development plans. Joel shares his perspective on the $2 billion Gotion investment and its potential impact on local taxes, jobs, and infrastructure. Public concerns, including safety and environmental considerations, are also explored, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing developments in the community.

Joel outlines potential future initiatives if elected, emphasizing the balance between growth and maintaining Manteno's small-town character. This episode aims to inform listeners about the key issues and proposed plans affecting the community as the consolidated election approaches.

Tune in to gain insights into Manteno's future, and don't forget to participate in the upcoming election to have your say in shaping the community's direction.

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In this election special episode of Kankakee Podcast, Jake LaMore sits down with Annette LaMore, who is running for Mayor of Manteno in the upcoming April 1st consolidated election. Annette reflects on her decades of dedication to the Manteno Sportsman's Club and Manteno Golf Course, sharing insights into the challenges of maintaining the course and her community-focused vision. She discusses her candidacy, the issues facing Manteno, and how her experience will guide her leadership if elected. This episode offers a personal look at a local leader's journey and her plans for the future of Manteno.

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In this special episode of the Kankakee Podcast, guest host JaHana Holloway sits down for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Teresa Lance, the new superintendent of Kankakee School District. Having previously been on the other side of the mic, Holloway brings a unique perspective to the interview. Together, they delve into Dr. Lance’s motivations for choosing Kankakee, the challenges and victories she has encountered in her first eight months, and her vision for making Kankakee a destination district.

Dr. Lance opens up about her journey, sharing personal stories from her childhood in Mount Vernon, New York, and how her experiences shaped her career in education. They discuss the importance of listening and learning sessions, the significance of a curriculum audit, and how these initiatives aim to enhance the academic environment for both students and teachers.

The episode also features a segment dedicated to questions from the community, addressing concerns about school safety, teacher burnout, and ways the public can support school administration. Dr. Lance’s unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of excellence at Kankakee shines through, offering listeners a hopeful glimpse into the district's future.

Tune in to hear Dr. Lance’s inspiring words on leadership, her plans to support students and teachers, and her determination to collaboratively elevate Kankakee School District to new heights. It's a conversation brimming with hope, accountability, and a shared commitment to the community’s educational success.

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This week on Kankakee Podcast News: We remember beloved local radio voice Ken Zyer, cover a police pursuit that ended in a crash and arrest, and discuss BBCHS expanding enrollment for staff kids. Plus, Bourbonnais approves a new public works contract, the BUGC gym gets a facelift, and Sonic the Hedgehog’s original voice visits Bradley for a unique fundraiser. Tune in for these stories and more!

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In this heartfelt episode of the Kankakee Podcast, join host Bill Yohnka as he introduces us to a captivating evening of storytelling from the Kankakee Yarn Factory Listeners event. 

Recorded live at the Venue Lounge in Downtown Kankakee, this session features a tapestry of compelling personal stories from local storytellers including Amanda Cuzzo, Darnell Davis Jr., Tina Hudson, and more. Dive into tales ranging from family legends and wartime memories to the humorous trials of modern dating and the powerful journey of overcoming addiction.

Kicking off the evening, Amanda Cuzzo delights the audience with a vivid recounting of her family's rich history and her grandfather's remarkable resilience during Pearl Harbor. Then, Alicia Kleinert and Ronald Matlock share the poignant story of survival and unexpected heroism from a fateful train collision in 1960, emphasizing bonds formed through time and gratitude.

Adding a twist of humor, Eric Peterson hilariously narrates his misadventures as a State Department contractor in Iraq, leading to an unexpected blacklist from the State Department. And who could forget Jackie's relatable yet wild dating escapades, culminating in an unforgettable encounter involving a wrestling lady and a shocking restroom mishap?

Rounding out the evening, Tina Hudson offers a moving testament of unwavering friendship and love through the lenses of addiction, while Darnell Davis Jr., aka "Keep It Smooth," takes us on an enlightening road trip to an American Idol audition that is fraught with cultural surprises and self-discovery.

Tune in to experience the richness of Kankakee's community spirit through laughter, tears, and the timeless power of sharing stories.

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In this episode of Kankakee Podcast, we bring you a special mayoral forum hosted by the NAACP at Kankakee Community College. Listen in as Mayor Chris Curtis and Dr. Genevra Walters discuss key issues impacting Kankakee, including public safety, community development, and their visions for the city’s future. Stay informed and engaged as the candidates share their perspectives ahead of the upcoming election on Tuesday, April 1st.

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In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover a tragic train accident in Kankakee, the BBCHS Scholastic Bowl team’s big regional win, and the recent visit from former Vice President Mike Pence at Olivet. Plus, updates on a gas leak evacuation in Bourbonnais, the latest on Bradley’s village expansion, and the reopening of Luconi’s Pizza. Tune in for these stories and more local news!

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