In this heartwarming and adventurous episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore opens the floor to a cast of storytellers at the event known as Yarn Factory Listeners, recorded live at Flanagan's Irish Pub. Join Jake and a group of spirited locals recounting their personal tales, each filled with humor, honesty, and unexpected twists. First,…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Jack Klasey and Jory Walters from the Kankakee County Museum to unravel the fascinating history of the once-iconic Hotel Kankakee, which stood tall in Downtown Kankakee from its groundbreaking in the mid-1920s until its demolition in 1991. They delve into the hotel's golden ye…

Join Jake LaMore in this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, brought to you by the Alkebulan History Center, Meineke Car Care, and King Music. Discover the latest updates, including the new ownership of Ascension Saint Mary's Hospital, Kankakee County's property tax collection progress, and the historic restoration project by Bradley's Restoration Wo…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Jake sits down with music enthusiasts Brian Prairie and Drew Raisor for a lively preview of the Merchant Street Music Fest in Downtown Kankakee. They dive into the festival's rich history, its eclectic lineup, and the vibrant community atmosphere that makes it an annual highlight. Together they share their e…

In this week's episode, we cover the tragic drowning of a young boy in the Kankakee River and the community's response, including a petition for a local river patrol. We also report on the recent Derecho storm that caused significant damage in Kankakee County and a delayed court decision in the Gotion case. Additionally, we discuss Bradley-Bourbonn…

In this bonus episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Sharla Ranchetto to discuss the Kankakee Valley Theater Association's upcoming musical, "The Hello Girls." Set against the backdrop of World War I, this production sheds light on the unsung female telephone operators who played a crucial role in military communications y…

Join host Jake LaMore as he brings you the latest headlines from Kankakee County. This week’s top stories include a tragic crash on I-80 claiming the life of a Momence woman, a fatal accident in Limestone Township, a gunshot victim leading police to an arrest in Kankakee, and a significant drug bust resulting in multiple charges. We also cover the …

Join Jake LaMore, along with guests James and Mary, as they dive into an enlightening conversation with guest James about the vibrant and ever-evolving local music scene in Kankakee. From attending shows in banana costumes to reminiscing about '90s bands, this episode is a nostalgic journey through sound and community. Mary shares a heartwarming st…

This Kankakee Podcast News Extra is brought to you by Kankakee Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Adam Elroy. In This Episode: Kankakee Mayor Chris Curtis announced his intentions to run for a second term on Tuesday, July 2nd. Curtis held his re-election campaign kickoff in the evening around 7pm at the corner of East Court Street and Saint Joseph Ave…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Jake LaMore brings you the latest updates from the Kankakee area for Friday, July 5th, 2024. Highlights include the safe resolution of a police standoff involving a suicidal individual, developments in the high-profile Sullivan trial, and the creation of a new City Manager position in Kankakee. We also cove…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Neil Piggush, the owner and president of Piggush Engineering, Inc., to delve into the world of civil engineering and its impact on the Kankakee community. Neil shares his journey from an aspiring engineer to a successful business owner, highlighting the challenges and rewards …

Welcome back to Kankakee Podcast News, where we bring you the latest updates and stories shaping our community. Hosted by Jake LaMore, this week’s episode is packed with everything you need to know about what’s happening in and around Kankakee. Highlights from This Episode: - Education Concerns: A recent report reveals third grade students in some …

In this enriching episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore delves into the personal and profound narratives of five remarkable storytellers at the Yarn Factory Listeners' event, recorded live at Flanagan's Irish Pub in downtown Kankakee. From transformative advice received in unexpected places to life-altering decisions made under pressure…

Welcome to another episode of Kankakee Podcast News with Jake LaMore! This week, we cover the latest headlines from around the county, including a tragic shooting in Pembroke Township and a dramatic SUV crash in Kankakee. Kankakee Mayor Chris Curtis and Police Chief Christopher Kidwell address the recent spike in gun violence, while the Village of …

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore delves into the rich tapestry of our local history with Jory Walters and Jack Clacy from the Kankakee County Museum. They explore the fascinating story of the French Heritage Museum, reflecting on its grand opening just twelve years ago and the impressive efforts that have kept it a communit…

Join Jake LaMore on this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, brought to you by the Alkebulan History Center, Meineke Car Care, and King Music. We cover the top stories from Kankakee, including an investigation into a fatal shooting, the surprising discovery in a local storage unit, and a shocking semi-truck crash in Momence. Plus, get the late…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Jake LaMore and Es:Dubble delve into the vibrant music scene of Kankakee, starting with a deep dive into the recent album by local artist Zach Tier. The album features the standout track "The Outlier," blending Sci-Fi vibes with rap roots, showcasing the dynamic creativity emerging from Kankakee. They also c…

Join Jake LaMore for the latest updates in Kankakee on this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News. Brought to you by the Alkebulan History Center, Meineke Care Care, and King Music, we cover top stories including a significant court sentencing and a dramatic police chase in Bourbonnais. Discover why a local teacher was fired, hear about the closu…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, guest host Matt Heading-Hess sits down with the fabulous Miss Champagne X to explore her journey as a genderfluid drag performer and the broader impact of drag on identity and community. Sharing the mic during Pride month, Miss Champagne X opens up about the transformative power of drag, from overcoming init…

Join Jake LaMore on Kankakee Podcast News for this week's essential local updates! We cover a major incident in Pembroke Township, new developments in Bradley and Manteno, and exciting business news in Bourbonnais. Celebrate a local chamber's milestone and hear about upcoming events you won't want to miss. Plus, learn about a beloved community memb…

In this special episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake delves into the fascinating history of the USS Kankakee with guest Jack Klacey (Kankakee County Museum). Together, they explore the remarkable journey of this fleet oiler, from its vital role in World War II to its involvement in significant historical events post-war. Jack takes us through…

Join Jake LaMore for this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, brought to you by the Alkebulan History Center in Kankakee and Meineke Car Care in Bourbonnais. In this episode, we cover the top headlines from Kankakee County: - Tragic accidents claim multiple lives. - A local director resigns to start a new business venture. - Exciting developme…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore guides us through a night brimming with poignant, raw, and deeply personal tales as we dive into the Yarn Factory Listeners event held on May 14, 2024, at Flanagan's Irish Pub. We have a diverse lineup of local storytellers, each sharing a unique piece of their life, colored with the triumph…

Join Jake LaMore on this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News as he brings you the latest headlines from the Kankakee area for Friday, May 17th, 2024. From a raging inferno in West Kankakee to updates on local businesses and community events, stay informed about what's happening in your neighborhood. Sponsored by the Alkebulan History Center, th…

In this melodious episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with budding singer-songwriter Mary Claire Dwyer to talk about her musical journey, her first EP "Miss You," and the inspirations behind her heartfelt songs. At just 16, Mary Claire astonishes with her voice, honed under the guidance of Luke Combs' vocal coach, and her de…

dIn this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Jake LaMore brings you the latest headlines from Kankakee County. Highlights include a drive-by shooting, a lithium battery fire, and a car break-in at Manteno Park. We also discuss a computer scam in Bradley, the induction of Bourbonnais' first K-9 officer, and a $2.9 million grant for road improvements i…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Nikki Moore, the creative force behind Little Me Studio. They explore the studio's unique approach to art and education for children, delving into its Montessori-inspired preschool transition program, parent-child classes, and community-focused events. Nikki shares her personal jo…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Jake LaMore covers the week's top stories, including a Kankakee home invasion, a high-speed police chase, and the passing of Riverside Healthcare's first CEO, Robert Miller. Get the latest on Kankakee's reduced property tax rate, the groundbreaking of Bradley's new youth sports complex, and the success of t…

In this special episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore dives deep into the vibrant tapestry of cultures at the Unity International Festival in Kankakee County. Event Details Genesis Community Ministries 2100 E. Maple St. | Kankakee, IL 60901 May 4th, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 815.295.0585 genesiscommunityministries@gmail.com ---- With special gues…

In this captivating episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore is joined by a dynamic group at the newly launched Yarn Factory Listeners event, which took place at Flanagan's Pub. Among the storytellers are Deb Terrill, who moved the audience with her recollections of growing up with her grandparents and the life lessons she learned from the…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Jake LaMore covers the latest headlines in the Kankakee area. Learn about the arrest following a threat at Olivet Nazarene University and a controversial decision by Wilmington police involving an immigrant. We also explore plans for an indoor water park in Bradley, a walk against gun violence, and Kankakee…

In this enthralling installment of the Kankakee Podcast, join host Jake LaMore as he delves into the artistic legacy of George Gray Barnard, whose boyhood in Kankakee helped shape a career that would leave an indelible mark on the world of sculpture. Together with guests Jory and Jack, we explore the fascinating exhibit at the Kankakee County Museu…

Join Jake LaMore on this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News as he brings you the latest headlines from around the area. From incidents like shots fired in Kankakee to heartwarming stories like a Bourbonnais resident making waves on America’s Funniest Home Videos, this episode covers the full spectrum of community news. Get updates on local eve…

In the latest rollicking installment of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore welcomes the vibrant trio from the Kankakee Valley Theater Association (KVTA) - the insightful director Paula Sutter, the versatile actor Tyler McMahon, and the charismatic newcomer Jared Nordin. Together, they dive into the technicolor world of "Seussical," a musical ex…

In this heartfelt episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with the inspiring Alexis McCullough, who is channeling her energy and passion into a noble cause. As an Eagle Scout candidate, Alexis is dedicating her service project to creating a Gold Star Memorial in her hometown park, honoring families like her own who have lost lov…

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, host Jake LaMore brings you the latest headlines from the Kankakee area, covering a range of events and developments. From a dramatic high-speed pursuit resulting in arrests to drug and weapons seizures, the episode delves into the efforts of law enforcement to maintain safety in the community. Meanw…

In this stirring episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Jake and Aaron Clark take us on a profound journey through the heart of community healing with a pivotal discussion on the transformative power of forgiveness. They sit down with the very founder of the "Kankakee Forgives" movement, Aaron Clark, who details his deeply personal and impassioned quest …

Join Jake LaMore as he delivers the latest local news headlines from Kankakee County in this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News. In this edition, Jake covers a range of stories from tragic events like the loss of a young life to business developments such as advancements in renewable energy initiatives. From the unfortunate loss of a teenager …

In this martial arts-focused edition of the Kankakee Podcast, your guide through all things Kankakee, host Jake LaMore sits down with the esteemed Bernie Gorak II, a man who wears multiple hats as a martial arts instructor, pest control expert, and former truck driver. Hailing from a family with deep roots in the local area, Bernie shares his journ…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, host Jake LaMore delivers a concise overview of the week's local headlines. From tragic accidents to exciting development projects, listeners will get a snapshot of the community's pulse. Learn about recent incidents like a fatal car crash in Manteno and efforts to curb gun violence in Kankakee. Explore the…

In this heartening installment of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore engages in a poignant discussion with Amy Kemp, a guiding light for women navigating the balance between their careers and the unpaid labor of managing a household. In this episode, Amy not only delves into the inspirations behind her compelling book "I See You", she also anno…

Welcome to Kankakee Podcast News, your source for the latest happenings in our community, brought to you by Nana’s Bakery and Cakes. I’m Jake LaMore, and in this week's episode, we’ll catch you up on what’s been going on around town as of Friday, March 22nd, 2024. We’ll start with some local news highlights, including incidents like the Manteno sta…

On this heartening installment of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore welcomes none other than the formidable Nina Epstein, a woman who's left an indelible mark on the city's political landscape. Known for her tenure as the first female mayor of Kankakee, Nina shares a candid recollection of her unexpected dive into politics and her transformati…

Welcome to another exciting episode of Kankakee Podcast News! Hosted by Jake LaMore, this week's edition brings you a dynamic blend of local news, community updates, and a brand new segment featuring live music events brought to you by, King Music. Tune in as we delve into the heart of our vibrant community on this Friday, March 15th, 2024. Headlin…

In this heartwarming episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore dives into the whimsical underwater world of "Finding Nemo Jr." with luminous local stars Lupe, Courtney Stevens, and Holden. The trio, playing key characters from the beloved Disney and Pixar tale, reveal their captivating experiences of bringing the animated classic to life on…

In this riveting episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake buzzes in with home inspector Scott Seaton for an insightful conversation that's much more than skin deep. From his unexpected entrepreneurial leap to harrowing tales on the job, Scott divulges the rollercoaster ride of crafting a successful home inspection empire in Kankakee County, start…

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Jake LaMore delivers the latest updates from Kankakee County. Tragically, the county saw three fatal vehicle accidents. Investigations into these incidents are ongoing. Additionally, two house fires struck the City of Kankakee, one resulting in a fatality. On a brighter note, we celebrate the grand o…

Join host Jake LaMore on this episode as we welcome the remarkable JaHana Holloway and guest host Derek Grant. In a heartfelt conversation, JoHanna delves into her personal journey, revealing the resilience behind her mission to empower the youth and the community with her innovative workshops and programs. Through "Empowered to Enlighten," she tur…

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 enforceme…

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 u…