In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore is honored to feature Dr. Leonard Porter, an illuminating figure in the community, who shares his deeply personal and historical insights into the Black experience. From opening recovery homes to preserving the legacies within the Alkebulan History Center in Kankakee, Dr. Porter’s narrative traverses the painful memories of slavery, his family's experiences, and the transformative power of education and healing.Listeners will be riveted by stories of resilience, from Dr. Porter's grandmother's struggles with slavery to his establishment of a veteran's recovery home that has touched thousands of lives. The episode also sheds light on Dr. Porter's commitment to teaching, his immense contributions to mental health, and the pioneering work that led to ground-breaking community initiatives.Dr. Porter and Jake delve into the Alkebulan History Center’s captivating exhibits, like the Stereotype Room, and discuss the powerful artifacts that tell the untold stories of Black heroes. No stone is left unturned in this rich dialogue that explores the breadth of Black history, from tragedy to triumph.Tune in for an unforgettable journey through time with the Kankakee Podcast, where history is not just recounted but palpably felt through Dr. Porter’s vivid storytelling and Jake's engaging conversation. This episode is a profound celebration of Black heritage and the relentless spirit of discovery and education.Join us for a thought-provoking session that honors the past, informs the present, and inspires a united path forward. Get ready for an educational odyssey with Dr. Porter that promises to enlighten and affect hearts and minds.---- Support the show

In this heartwarming episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore sits down with Marci Sadler, one of the owners of the historic Majestic theater in Downtown Kankakee. The duo discusses the upcoming Majestic Wedding Expo, an event that offers a one-stop shop for all your wedding needs. Marci shares insights on the event, the vendors, and the free giveaways, and even details a bingo game with a grand prize of a free wedding at the Majestic.The captivating conversation delves into the changing trends in weddings, emphasizing the importance of making your special day unique and stress-free. Marci provides invaluable tips for couples just starting to plan their weddings and stresses the significance of clear communication.Tune in to get a sneak peek of what to expect at the Majestic Wedding Expo, discover the latest wedding trends, and gain valuable insights on planning a stress-free and memorable wedding. Plus, find out how the Majestic continues to be a cornerstone of the local community, with additional businesses in the building opening their doors for this special event.Join Jake and Marci as they showcase the magic of the Majestic and the fantastic opportunities that the Wedding Expo promises, making this a must-listen for anyone planning a wedding or looking for a delightful local event in Kankakee!Support the show

In this industrious installment of the Kankakee Podcast, our very own Jake LaMore dives into the mechanics of Crown Holdings’ impressive operation with esteemed guests Juan Guzman and Ray Garcia. As we peel back the aluminum curtain of the Bradley plant, we uncover the riveting journey of 12-ounce cans that quench the thirst of millions. This episode celebrates the mastery of manufacturing that takes place right in our backyard.From the clanking symphony of machinery that might be mistaken for disco beats to the delicate dance of printing and varnishing, Juan and Ray guide us through the plant's relentless pursuit to churn out 6 million cans daily. As Crown's human resources manager, Juan brings nearly a decade of expertise to the table, explaining how a focus on employee engagement and reducing equipment speeds has led to an astounding 2 billion cans produced annually. Ray, with his diverse background, shares insights into the plant's complex processes, from trimming to testing.This episode is a testament to Kankakee's industrious heart, as Crown Holdings artfully combines efficiency with environmental stewardship. We gain a renewed appreciation for the ubiquitous aluminum can as our guests highlight community efforts in recycling education – from school programs to reducing landfill waste, the commitment to sustainability is clear.Plus, there’s something quite personal for Juan – the pride in spotting and purchasing cans his plant produced, identifiable by their unique codes, right from the grocery shelf.So, pop a tab and settle in for an episode that delves deep into the elegant engineering and community spirit that keep our favorite beverages just a can away. Tune in for a glimpse into the ingenuity that powers Kankakee’s Crown Holdings and the daily lives of those who craft these containers with care. And remember, the next time you recycle that aluminum can, you’re part of a much larger story of sustainability and community pride. Support the show

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Jake LaMore chats with local plumber Kevin "Mitch" Mitchell about his viral meme from five years ago, which humorously mimicked Maroon 5 lead singer Adam Levine's "California" tattoo by writing "Illinois" on his stomach during the Super Bowl halftime show. They discuss the meme's explosive online spread, the unexpected media attention, and how Mitch handled the fame. The episode also touches on Mitch's background, his work, and his connection to Kankakee. Mitch reflects on the experience, noting the community's support and how he has embraced Kankakee as his home.Mitch's meme was an instant hit. Within an hour, it garnered a thousand shares, and by the next morning, it had reached 20,000. The Kankakee local had become an internet sensation, and his life was about to change. As we discussed the whirlwind of attention, Mitch recounted waking up to messages from old friends and seeing his face on WGN news. The meme's reach was undeniable, and it was reshaping his everyday life.How did he handle the spotlight? What was his response to the accidental hit sensation? You'll just have to tune in!As we look forward to another Super Bowl weekend, Mitch and I want to remind everyone to celebrate responsibly. If you're enjoying some drinks, do it safely at home or arrange a ride. Let's make this weekend memorable for all the right reasons!---- Support the show

Kankakee Valley Theatre Association presents...THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD ~ Based on Charles Dickens’ final unfinished novel, this hilarious whodunit invites the audience to solve its mystery by choosing the identity of the murderer. The tale is presented as a show-within-a-show, as the Music Hall Royale - a delightfully loony Victorian theatre company - presents Dickens’ brooding mystery. Musical numbers include “Perfect Strangers,” “Don’t Quit While You’re Ahead,” “Off To The Races” and “Moonfall.”In this podcast episode, host Jake Elmore talks with Tyler McMahon, director of "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" at the Kankakee Valley Theater Association. They reminisce about past theater experiences and delve into the intricacies of the current production. Tyler discusses the challenges actors face when playing characters within characters and the unique audience participation element where the show's ending is determined by audience vote, with 44 possible outcomes. The conversation highlights the show's blend of humor, mystery, and the immersive experience it provides, as well as the dedication of the cast and crew in bringing this complex and interactive musical to life.GET YOUR TICKETSSHOWTIMESSaturday, February 3 ~ 7:00 PMSunday, February 4 ~ 2:00 PMFriday, February 9 ~ 7:00 PMSaturday, February 10 ~ 7:00 PM---- Support the show

Join Jake LaMore on a journey through the immigrant history of Kankakee County with Jack Klasey and Jorie Walters from the Kankakee County Museum. In this episode, the trio unravels the unique and vibrant stories of various ethnic groups that have shaped the rich tapestry of Kankakee's cultural landscape.Together we navigate through the early waves of immigration during the county's formation, where settlers moved westward in pursuit of land and community. Discover the pivotal role played by churches in uniting diverse ethnic communities, each with its distinct place of worship, creating a mosaic of cultural expression.The hosts share insights into specific settlements like French Heritage, Pembroke, and the post-World War I African American settlers in Pembroke. Uncover the economic motivations that influenced immigration patterns, from working in tree nurseries to the coal mining business.Explore the impactful stories of historical figures, such as an escaped slave celebrating freedom in the 1900s and Governor Shapiro's crucial role in supporting the Jewish community. As we trace the immigration timeline, we witness the transformation of Kankakee County from a collection of ethnic churches to the diverse and interconnected community it is today.As we end our time together we reflect on the modern influx of Hispanic immigrants in the last few decades, reshaping the demographic landscape of Kankakee County. Join the hosts as they weave together intimate stories of migration, settlement, and the evolving cultural heritage of this extraordinary region.This episode is a journey through time, celebrating the people and places that make Kankakee County what it is today. So, if you're as curious as I am about the stories that have shaped our community, tune in to the Kankakee Podcast. Let's uncover the past together and maybe, just maybe, we'll find a piece of ourselves along the way.Remember, history isn't just about dates and documents; it's about the human experience. And I love getting to share these experiences with you!--- Support the show

Jake warmly welcomes the incredibly knowledgeable realtor Lisa Sanford to the studio. Lisa is here to spill the beans on all things related to the Kankakee County real estate market. She dives deep into the intricate details of real estate transactions, shining a light on key aspects like the significance of getting to grips with closing costs and the ins and outs of title insurance rates.Lisa doesn't just stop there; she's full of savvy advice on how to make your offer stand out from the crowd in those nail-biting multiple offer scenarios. And guess what? It's not always about flashing the cash with the highest bid. She talks about the power of solid financing and the impact of earnest money. Plus, Lisa highlights the crucial role of attorneys in smoothing out the transaction process and the absolute necessity of due diligence, such as conducting thorough home inspections.Throughout the conversation, it's impossible to miss Lisa's deep-seated love for Kankakee County. She paints a picture of a region rich in diversity and brimming with community spirit—a place she clearly holds dear to her heart.As we bring the curtains down on this episode, Jake takes a moment to extend a heartfelt thank you to Lisa for her invaluable insights. He also gives a shout-out to the folks at Pathfinder for their stellar production work and to Lupe Carol for providing that catchy theme tune that we just can't get enough of. Thanks for tuning in, and we can't wait to share more enlightening conversations with you in the episodes to come!---- Support the show

In this episode, Jake LaMore brings you an exciting conversation with the legendary Mike Perrine, a man who has made a remarkable impact in the field of farm broadcasting.Recently inducted into the prestigious National Association of Farm Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Mike Perrine's contributions to the industry are truly exceptional. Join Jake as he sits down with Mike to explore his fascinating journey, from his humble beginnings to his current status as a revered figure in the field.With over five decades of experience in radio, Mike Perrine has witnessed the evolution of the industry firsthand. From his early days as a disc jockey to his role as a program director and local news anchor, Mike's career has been filled with memorable moments and invaluable insights.During their conversation, Jake and Mike discuss the challenges and triumphs of farm broadcasting, sharing stories that highlight the unique nature of the profession. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the dedication and passion required to succeed in this field, as Mike recounts his experiences behind the mic and the impact he has had on the community.As they delve into Mike's journey, Jake and Mike also touch upon the changes in technology and the broadcasting landscape over the years. From the days of AM radio to the emergence of FM stations, Mike's perspective on the industry's transformation provides a captivating glimpse into radio's rich history.Whether you're a radio enthusiast, a fan of farm broadcasting, or simply curious about the stories that shape Kankakee County, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire. Join us as we celebrate the remarkable career of Mike Perrine and gain a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling through the airwaves.---- Support the show

Welcome to another captivating episode of Kankakee Podcast! In this edition, we embark on a journey into the fascinating world of Spizzirri Reptile Rescue, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Momence. Join our host, Jake LaMore, as he unravels the tales of passion, dedication, and scaly wonders that define the essence of this extraordinary reptile sanctuary.How It All Began:At the core of Spizzirri Reptile Rescue is the story of Niko and Sharon, two individuals whose love for reptiles evolved into a full-fledged rescue mission. Learn about the origins of this unique haven and the challenges that fueled their unwavering commitment to providing a home for reptiles in need.Meet the Residents:In a delightful twist, Niko and Sharon brought some of their reptile companions into the studio for Jake to meet. From Talon, an impressive bearded dragon, to Chance, a captivating snake, each resident at Spizzirri has a story to tell. Dive into the enchanting world of these scaly friends and discover the unique personalities that make them a cherished part of the Spizzirri family.Scaling Up:With over a hundred reptiles under their care, Niko and Sharon provide insights into the daily routines, joys, and challenges of managing such a diverse array of creatures. Explore the variety of reptiles that call Spizzirri home and gain a deeper understanding of the meticulous care that goes into ensuring their well-being.Misconceptions Unveiled:Delve into the intricate world of reptile care as Niko and Sharon debunk common misconceptions. Gain valuable insights into the nuanced responsibilities involved and understand why reptile care is not as straightforward as it may seem. This segment is a must-listen for both seasoned reptile enthusiasts and those considering bringing a scaly friend into their lives.Location and Contact:Curious about Spizzirri Reptile Rescue and eager to get involved? Discover the exact location and find out how you can connect with Niko and Sharon. Whether you're interested in educational performances, volunteering opportunities, or simply want to support their noble cause, Spizzirri opens its doors to reptile lovers and those seeking to be part of a vibrant community.Conclusion:Join us on this reptilian adventure as we unveil the magic that resides within Spizzirri Reptile Rescue. The scaly wonders of Momence are waiting to be discovered, and this episode promises to be a delightful exploration into a world where passion and care converge in the most enchanting way. Tune in now and be part of the reptile magic!---- Support the show

Join hosts Jake LaMore, Brian Prairie, and special guest Lizzie LaMore (Jake’s wife) as they revisit the standout moments and captivating stories that made the Kankakee Podcast soar in 2023. In this special episode, the team counts down the 10 most listened-to episodes, unveiling behind-the-scenes anecdotes, unexpected highlights, and the community's favorite conversations.From exclusive interviews with local personalities to hilarious off-the-wall moments, this retrospective promises a rollercoaster of emotions. Discover why these episodes resonated with the audience and relive the magic that made Kankakee Podcast a must-listen throughout the year.🎉  Uncover the most beloved episodes.🤣  Laugh along with unforgettable podcasting moments.🎤  Get a sneak peek into the hosts' personal favorites.🎁  Celebrate the Kankakee community and its incredible stories.Tune in and reminisce with Kankakee Podcast — because the best moments deserve an encore!---- Support the show