In this special election episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore engages in a conversation with David Zinnani, a candidate in the upcoming 2025 mayoral election for the Village of Bourbonnais. David, recognized for his multifaceted career within Kankakee County—ranging from roles in the sheriff’s department to his current position as pres…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: Prime Healthcare completes its acquisition of St. Mary’s, while Manteno residents weigh in on the possibility of a new police gun range. Plus, the Kankakee Regatta lands a national powerboat event, bringing a big boost to the community. Tune in for these updates and more! Brought to you by Meineke Car Care in Bou…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: Prime Healthcare completes its acquisition of St. Mary’s, while Manteno residents weigh in on the possibility of a new police gun range. Plus, the Kankakee Regatta lands a national powerboat event, bringing a big boost to the community. Tune in for these updates and more! Send us a text Support the show…

On this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Jake LaMore is joined by history buffs Jack Klasey and Jorie Walters from the Kankakee County Museum to delve into the rich tapestry of Kankakee County’s industrial past, focusing on the legendary Roper Corporation. This episode unpacks the intricate history of the Roper Corporation, tracing its roots back t…

A fatal crash in Bradley leaves one dead and a juvenile injured, while Kankakee Police investigate a shooting on Rosewood Avenue. Plus, Jeff Keast wins the Bourbonnais mayoral primary, and Bradley moves forward with its massive indoor water park project. Tune in for these stories and more on this week’s Kankakee Podcast News. Brought to you by Mein…

A fatal crash in Bradley leaves one dead and a juvenile injured, while Kankakee Police investigate a shooting on Rosewood Avenue. Plus, Jeff Keast wins the Bourbonnais mayoral primary, and Bradley moves forward with its massive indoor water park project. Tune in for these stories and more on this week’s Kankakee Podcast News. Send us a text Support…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore dives into the world of classical music with the talented Sean Paul Mills, Artistic Director and Conductor of the Kankakee Valley Symphony Orchestra. With a rich background as a cellist and conductor across the US and Europe, as well as a martial artist, Sean Paul brings an intriguing perspe…

In this week's Kankakee Podcast News, we cover a second arrest in the Limestone shooting case, the upcoming Bourbonnais mayoral primary, and a debate over Manteno’s PR spending on the Gotion plant. Plus, updates on Bradley Village Hall renovations, Bradley East Elementary’s expansion, and more local stories you need to know! Brought to you by Meine…

In this week's Kankakee Podcast News, we cover a second arrest in the Limestone shooting case, the upcoming Bourbonnais mayoral primary, and a debate over Manteno’s PR spending on the Gotion plant. Plus, updates on Bradley Village Hall renovations, Bradley East Elementary’s expansion, and more local stories you need to know! Send us a text Support …

In this election special episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore welcomes Bourbonnais mayoral candidate Jeff Keast to discuss his candidacy and vision for the village. Drawing from his extensive experience as a trustee and local business owner, Jeff shares his plans to enhance growth and development in Bourbonnais, highlighting initiative…

In this special election episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore interviews Bourbonnais Mayor Paul Schore, who is seeking a fifth term in office. With Bourbonnais conducting its first-ever primary election for the mayoral candidate of the Bourbonnais Citizens Party, Mayor Schore outlines the projects and developments during his tenure. Fr…

In this special live episode of the Kankakee Podcast's "Yarn Factory Listeners," host Jake LaMore is joined by his co-host Bill Yohnka and an eclectic mix of local storytellers at the Venue Lounge in downtown Kankakee. The night brims with heartfelt and humorous tales, each uniquely showcasing the vibrant tapestry of community life. Listeners first…

Netflix is in Momence filming season 3 of Monster, and we talk with local high school senior Colby Ogibovic, who landed a role as an extra! Plus, Bradley moves forward with its mall-to-water-park transformation, and we cover the latest headlines from around Kankakee County. Brought to you by Meineke Car Care in Bourbonnais, King Music in Bradley an…

Netflix is in Momence filming season 3 of Monster, and we talk with local high school senior Colby Ogibovic, who landed a role as an extra! Plus, Bradley moves forward with its mall-to-water-park transformation, and we cover the latest headlines from around Kankakee County. Send us a text Support the show…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Melvina Calvin Edwards, a trailblazer in Kankakee County's law enforcement community. Melvina shares her incredible journey, breaking barriers as the first black woman hired by the Kankakee Police Department in 2005, and now making history again as she rises to the rank of ser…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we cover the indictment of a suspect in a January shooting in Limestone, along with other important local updates. We’ll talk about the latest on Hobbie Avenue’s reconstruction, the restoration of traffic lights at West Court & Kennedy, and the exciting recognition for Rubber Rose Books in the 2025 Midwest Indie …

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we cover the indictment of a suspect in a January shooting in Limestone, along with other important local updates. We’ll talk about the latest on Hobbie Avenue’s reconstruction, the restoration of traffic lights at West Court & Kennedy, and the exciting recognition for Rubber Rose Books in the 2025 Midwest Indie …

In this bonus episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore teams up with Felicity from the Majestic to bring you a special feature on the upcoming annual Wedding Expo. With excitement bubbling for Sunday, February 16th, Jake and Felicity dive into what attendees can expect from this year's event—from traditional vendors to some surprising new …

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore dials up the fun as he sits down with the dynamic crew from Breakroom Sessions. Will, Shauna, Country Cuz, and Reek join Jake for an electrifying conversation that offers a sneak peek into their unique YouTube show and podcast. Breakroom Sessions started in 2022 when the group took Jake up o…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: Downtown Kankakee welcomes a new leader, a longtime local music store closes its doors, and a BBCHS junior is honored for an incredible Eagle Scout project. Plus, we cover local crime updates, a community mentorship program, and upcoming events you won’t want to miss. Tune in for the latest! Send us a text Suppor…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: Downtown Kankakee welcomes a new leader, a longtime local music store closes its doors, and a BBCHS junior is honored for an incredible Eagle Scout project. Plus, we cover local crime updates, a community mentorship program, and upcoming events you won’t want to miss. Tune in for the latest! Brought to you by Mei…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore dives deep into the historical fabric of Kankakee County with esteemed guests Jack Klasey and Jorie Walters from the Kankakee County Museum. Together, they unravel the fascinating story of Bear Brand, a prominent hosiery manufacturer that once stood as a cornerstone of the local economy. Fro…

From a generous land donation expanding Riverfront Park to a groundbreaking ceremony for the East Riverwalk, this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News highlights progress in our community. We also cover Darius Sullivan’s sentencing, Jess Gathing’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and Pembroke Schools' new mobile health care partnership. Plus, Kankake…

From a generous land donation expanding Riverfront Park to a groundbreaking ceremony for the East Riverwalk, this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News highlights progress in our community. We also cover Darius Sullivan’s sentencing, Jess Gathing’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and Pembroke Schools' new mobile health care partnership. Plus, Kankake…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, guest host Andrew McBurnie steps in for a homesick Jake LaMore and dives into the world of community theater with Tyler McMahon and Bonnie Brewer. They discuss their involvement in the Kankakee Valley Theater Association’s upcoming production of "Steel Magnolias," detailing the unique aspects of the show tha…

This 11th volume of Yarn Factory Listeners brings together a collection of heartfelt and riveting stories themed around the Kankakee River. As Bill embarks on a new journey working on the riverfront project, this episode pays homage to the river's significance in the community. We begin with our event host, Bill Yohnka, sharing his personal and dee…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we cover the firing of Kankakee School District 111's assistant superintendent, updates on the Gotion lithium battery plant expansion in Manteno, and a key ruling in the Harris murder trial. Plus, Bradley 315 Fest announces its star-studded lineup, and Stefari Coffee House makes its return to Downtown Kankakee. T…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we cover the firing of Kankakee School District 111's assistant superintendent, updates on the Gotion lithium battery plant expansion in Manteno, and a key ruling in the Harris murder trial. Plus, Bradley 315 Fest announces its star-studded lineup, and Stefari Coffee House makes its return to Downtown Kankakee. T…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore dives into the soulful acoustic realm, highlighting some of Kankakee’s finest singer-songwriters in a special solo episode. Jake celebrates the intimacy and authenticity of acoustic performances, unearthing the rich emotional connections between local artists and their audiences. First up, w…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: A $30,000 reward is offered to solve a tragic New Year’s Day shooting, a high-speed chase ends in Kankakee, and international teachers join District 111 to address staffing shortages. Plus, updates on local infrastructure, new businesses, and upcoming events. Stay informed with the latest stories from around Kank…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: A $30,000 reward is offered to solve a tragic New Year’s Day shooting, a high-speed chase ends in Kankakee, and international teachers join District 111 to address staffing shortages. Plus, updates on local infrastructure, new businesses, and upcoming events. Stay informed with the latest stories from around Kank…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Alicia Kleinert, the extraordinary founder behind Kankakee County's first independent senior adult day center, known as MCA Senior Adult Day Center. Alicia shares the inspiring journey of transforming a furniture showroom into a thriving community hub for seniors, complete wit…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: A mass shooting on New Year’s Day leaves two dead and five injured, BBCHS works on a discipline improvement plan, and Wintersong returns with an exciting lineup. Plus, updates on local businesses, village projects, and more. Tune in for the latest! Brought to you by Meineke Car Care in Bourbonnais, King Music in …

This week on Kankakee Podcast News: A mass shooting on New Year’s Day leaves two dead and five injured, BBCHS works on a discipline improvement plan, and Wintersong returns with an exciting lineup. Plus, updates on local businesses, village projects, and more. Tune in for the latest! Send us a text Support the show…

Tune in to discover the top 10 Kankakee Podcast episodes of 2024, featuring unforgettable local stories, inspiring guests, and special moments from our vibrant community! 👇👇👇 152: USS Kankakee: https://www.kankakeepodcast.com/episodes/uss-kankakee-veteran-stories-and-naval-history-at-kankakee-museum/ 132: Spizzirri Reptile Rescue: https://www.kanka…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover a Bradley man charged in a shocking crossbow killing, updates on a fatal semi crash near Grant Park, and a look at local business closures and reopenings, including Crazy Joe’s Diner and Bradley Big Lots. Brought to you by Meineke Car Care in Bourbonnais, King Music in Bradley and the Alkebulan His…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover a Bradley man charged in a shocking crossbow killing, updates on a fatal semi crash near Grant Park, and a look at local business closures and reopenings, including Crazy Joe’s Diner and Bradley Big Lots. Send us a text Support the show由Pathfinder

Tune in to our live recording of December's Yarn Factory Listeners at Flanagan's Irish Pub! Our focus turns to four captivating storytellers—Kevin "Mitch" Mitchell, Bri Haug, Broke Dusty, and Andy Stephens—each sharing unique narratives that paint a vivid picture of community life in Kankakee. First, Kevin "Mitch" Mitchell recounts his unexpected d…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover Chef Vaughn’s new riverside kitchen at On The Rox, Bourbonnais’ interim police chief announcement, and updates on Kankakee’s tax levy drop for 2024. Plus, hear about Manteno’s new Domino’s Pizza plans, a proposed roundabout to fix a hazardous intersection, and a farewell to Bishop McNamara’s histor…

In this episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover Chef Vaughn’s new riverside kitchen at On The Rox, Bourbonnais’ interim police chief announcement, and updates on Kankakee’s tax levy drop for 2024. Plus, hear about Manteno’s new Domino’s Pizza plans, a proposed roundabout to fix a hazardous intersection, and a farewell to Bishop McNamara’s histor…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Michael Murphy, the charismatic founder of Let's Ketchup, to discuss his transformative personal journey and his tireless effort to combat food scarcity in Kankakee County. Michael shares a heartfelt story from his youth about a rebellious interview at a military school and th…

From major developments in Bradley to festive holiday events, this week’s Kankakee Podcast News covers everything you need to know, including updates on the indoor water park project, the Christmas Parade, and a powerful story of justice served. Tune in for the latest local highlights! Send us a text Support the show…

In this lively episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with the dynamic band Katzpa Jammas and event organizers Marci and Felicity (The Majestic) to talk about the upcoming Winter Wonderland Pub Crawl scheduled for December 14th in Downtown Kankakee. The episode kicks off with an exploration of the landmark status of Junior's Ch…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we’re covering major community updates, including the impact of Lion Electric layoffs on Herscher schools, new leadership on the Kankakee County Board, and upcoming public safety plans for Illinois Route 1. Plus, dive into the holiday spirit with details on the Bradley Christmas Parade, Manteno’s festive events, …

Jake LaMore sits down with inspiring young leaders from the Pledge for Life Partnership Youth Advisory Council: Maya Crawford, Maya Anderson, and Regan Kaner. They delve into the crucial topic of youth mental health education in Kankakee County, discussing the current resources available in schools and how effective they are. Maya Anderson highligh…

Big news in Bradley as the village moves forward with a $6.5 million purchase of Northfield Square Mall, with plans for an exciting redevelopment. This week’s Kankakee Podcast News also covers the latest on Bourbonnais tax updates, a new trial for a 2007 case, and holiday events across the county. Plus, we remember Coach Deb Johnston’s lasting impa…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, hosts Jake LaMore and Bill Yohnka welcome a diverse mix of storytellers for a special "Yarn Factory Listeners" event recorded live at Flanagan's Irish Pub. First up, Mike Leddin takes us on a wild ride as he recounts the nerve-wracking experience of getting his car stuck on train tracks. From initial panic t…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we dive into the stories shaping our community. Learn about Kankakee’s renewed investment in public safety with ShotSpotter, the latest updates on the tragic sentencing in Sgt. Marlene Rittmanic’s case, and a major tax proposal for Bradley schools. Plus, Chef Vaughn’s Kitchen is making a comeback, Bourbonnais pla…

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Jake sits down with local historian and guest Jack Klasey to explore the captivating history of Kankakee's newspapers. From the rise and fall of several local papers to the deeply rooted legacy of the Small family, whose involvement spanned four generations, they delve into what made these publications the h…

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we remember the legacy of James Taylor, highlight Liberty Lodge’s mission to support homeless veterans, and reflect on the final service at First Presbyterian Church after 170 years. Plus, updates on local elections, the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign, and more. Tune in for all the latest news shaping Kanka…