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#202: Celebrating 125 Years of the Frank Lloyd Wright Bradley House
Hello, Kankakee County and friends from afar! In this special episode of the Kankakee Podcast, we stepped inside one of our region’s greatest architectural treasures: the Frank Lloyd Wright Bradley House. As “Wright in Kankakee” celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, we took the opportunity to sit down with the passionate people behind the events,…
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#201: Building a Local Legacy: Inside Jimmy Holmes’ Life, Business, and Music
In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with one of the community’s most requested guests—Jimmy Holmes, owner of the iconic Jimmy Holmes Clothing. Known for his signature personality and legendary status around Kankakee, Jimmy shares the captivating story of his family’s journey from Texas and Elgin, Illinois, to Bourbonnais (and now…
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BONUS: Kankakee Community College Continuing Education
In this bonus episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Gina Greene, Director of Continuing Education and Business Partnerships at Kankakee Community College (KCC). Together, they shine a light on one of Kankakee County’s best-kept secrets: the diverse programs and training opportunities offered by KCC’s Continuing Education department. Gina shares her…
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#200: Building Community Through Local Media with Josh Carman
Hello Kankakee—and faithful listeners everywhere! This week, the Kankakee Podcast takes you behind the microphone into the heart of local radio and the spirit of community collaboration. For episode 200, I sat down with my good friend and local media mainstay, Josh Carman, to discuss his journey from Kankakee kid to morning radio voice, the…
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Three Lives Lost in Fiery Crash and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 04/25/25
In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we bring you important stories from around the county. A tragic crash on Cobb Blvd claimed the lives of three local men, while 170 volunteers stepped up for United Way’s Day of Action, tackling cleanup projects across Kankakee County. We also cover significant local leadership changes: Bourbonnais…
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#199: City of New Orleans: The Song That Put Kankakee on the Musical Map
Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today, we’re celebrating a story that runs on steel rails, bridges musical generations, and puts our hometown right at the heart of American song. On this week’s episode of the Kankakee Podcast, I, Jake LaMore, take you on a journey through the legacy of “City of New Orleans”—a song that…
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Kankakee River Dredging Project Kicks Off and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – Friday, April 18th, 2025
This week on Kankakee Podcast News, we dive into a variety of important and exciting updates in the Kankakee community! Here’s a quick recap of the top stories: Catch all the details and more in this week’s episode! Listen now and stay informed on the latest community happenings. Tune In + Subscribe
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Manteno Trustee Appointment Sparks Backlash and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 04/11/25
Manteno Shakeup: Trustee Appointment Sparks Backlash This week on Kankakee Podcast News, all eyes are on Manteno. A controversial trustee appointment just days before a new mayor takes office is stirring tension in the village. We also cover heated rezoning debates, a “Hands Off” rally at the courthouse, a major housing plan that could revive…
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BONUS: Behind the Scenes of KVTA’s Matilda: The Musical
Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today, we’re diving into the world of theater, storytelling, and community spirit—brought to you by the incredible talents of the Kankakee Valley Theater Association (KVTA). In this bonus episode of the Kankakee Podcast, we’re excited to give you an exclusive look at KVTA’s upcoming production of “Matilda: The Musical.” The…
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#197: Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Tracey Noe Slach and the Mission of Clove Alliance
Today, we’re diving into a conversation that touches on empowerment, support, and community resilience. As we mark April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we’re proud to feature an episode centered on the vital work of Clove Alliance in our tri-county area. Unifying for a Cause Our guest, Tracey Noe Slach, Executive Director of Clove Alliance,…
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BBCHS Robotics Eyes Global Title and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 04/04/25
In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we’re celebrating local achievement as the BBCHS Ironclad Robotics team qualifies for the 2025 World Championship in Houston! But their journey isn’t over—they need the community’s help to make it happen. We also break down the results of Tuesday’s consolidated election, explain major staffing and curriculum changes…
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BONUS: Momence Track Hosts Its First Meet in Two Decades
Step into the heart of Kankakee County with the latest episode of Kankakee Podcast as we delve into a tale of community spirit, dedication, and revitalization. On location at Momence High School, host Jake LaMore sits down with Coach Cherry, the dedicated athletic director spearheading the much-anticipated return of track meets to Momence after an…
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#196: Celebrating 150 Years of Bourbonnais with the Kankakee County Museum
Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today we take you on an enlightening journey through the rich history of Bourbonnais as it celebrates its 150th anniversary. Joined by esteemed guests Jack Klasey and Jory Walters, we delve into the fascinating tales that have shaped Bourbonnais into the vibrant village it is today. The Beginning of Bourbonnais…
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Bradley Moves Forward with Massive Indoor Water Park and More Stories – Kankakee Podcast News – 03/28/25
This episode of Kankakee Podcast News is proudly brought to you by our Title Sponsor for the month of March: Bradley’s Massive Indoor Water Park, Bourbonnais’ 150th, and Local Success Stories Big things are happening in Kankakee County! In this week’s episode of Kankakee Podcast News, we cover major developments in Bradley, including a massive indoor water park…
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Election Special: Trustee Joel Gesky, Manteno Mayoral Candidate
This episode of Kankakee Podcast is proudly brought to you by our Title Sponsor for the month of March: Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! On this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, we explore the political landscape of Manteno with mayoral candidate Joel Gesky. As the April 1st consolidated election approaches, Joel offers insights into his…