Podcasts about Kankakee

Looking for a local church or biblical counseling in the Kankakee area? Contact us at www.discipleshipctr.org

Looking for a local church or biblical counseling in the Kankakee area? Contact us at www.discipleshipctr.org

Looking for a local church or biblical counseling in the Kankakee area? Contact us at ⁠www.discipleshipctr.org

Guest host Jake “Jacques” LaMore, formerly of Pop-Punk & Pizza, now the voice behind new narrative storytelling podcast, “This One Time in Kankakee”, sits down for a conversation with Kevin Andrew, the lead vocalist of Chicago’s diet punk band, Guardrail. The two discuss: -Kevin’s recent wedding -How their bands used to play shows together -The meaning behind the group’s new single, “Heroes”, now streaming everywhere -The upcoming ten anniversary of their yearly benefit show, Snuzfest ### Jake did an incredible job - and his mic/audio quality are tops (I notice this stuff). I’m incredibly grateful that he was willing to jump behind the mic to talk punk rock on behalf of CCC. And thanks of course to Kevin for again agreeing to have the world’s premiere diet punk band featured on the podcast. -JVO ### Car Con Carne is nominated for “Best Music Podcast” in the Chicago Reader’s “Best of Chicago” survey (https://chicagoreader.com/best-of-chicago-music-nightlife-2025/). Please consider voting for the podcast - recognition like this can go a long way for a DIY, one-person operation! ### Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Bands, brands, listeners who want to get the word out: Exploding House Printing can help with your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. Exploding House delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or just email info@explodinghouseprinting.com to get a quote!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keagen Trost, a 2019 Kankakee graduate, was named a first-team All-SEC offensive lineman earlier this week after a standout season as Missouri's right tackle. His former Kays teammate Jyaire Hill and Manteno native Josh Gesky received All-Big Ten recognition.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers the key stories from around the county. First Community Insurance & Annuity Center has officially moved its headquarters to a new location on Armour Road in Bourbonnais, continuing its more than 30-year commitment to serving local residents and businesses. The city of Kankakee has extended its leaf-pickup service after November snowstorms disrupted collection, asking residents to keep leaf piles visible and accessible. School districts across the region are reviewing their latest Illinois State Report Card designations, with several schools earning commendable or exemplary ratings while others receive targeted support. Finally, starting after January 1, Kankakee will begin towing vehicles parked along designated snow-route streets during snow events, warning residents of potential $200–$300 recovery costs and urging attention to posted signage.Send us a textSupport the show

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor delivers the top headlines from around the county. Kankakee officials announced stricter enforcement of snow-route parking regulations this winter, emphasizing towing for vehicles blocking priority streets once snowfall reaches two inches. Illinois residents will see lower Thanksgiving costs this year as turkey prices fall more than 16 percent, bringing the average cost of a classic dinner for 10 down to $49.20 statewide. Manteno approved a new short-term rental ordinance for Airbnb and VRBO hosts, removing several proposed requirements and omitting a 5% hotel tax while strengthening tools to address problem properties. The Relay for Life of Kankakee County fundraiser exceeded expectations, raising more than $255,000 for cancer research and patient support programs. Finally, the Illinois Commerce Commission reduced Nicor Gas's proposed rate hike by nearly half, lowering its profit rate and expanding protections for low-income customers.Send us a textSupport the show

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Andrew McBurnie welcomes members of the Kankakee Valley Theatre Association to talk about their upcoming production of My Son Pinocchio Jr., a heartwarming and family-friendly twist on the classic Disney tale. Director Pat Ward and cast member Ella Nitschke, who stars as the Blue Fairy, share what audiences can expect from this magical musical — from its playful humor and tap-dancing fairies to the deeper themes of family, forgiveness, and what it means to be “perfect.”Pat reflects on her decades-long journey in community theater, while Ella brings insight into the fun and challenges of bringing a timeless story to life on stage. Together, they talk about the show's beautiful message, its connection to the Kankakee community, and why live theater continues to be such an important part of local culture. Performances take place November 22–23 at the Lincoln Cultural Center, with tickets available at kvta.org.Send us a textSupport the show

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers the top headlines from across Kankakee County. Hundreds gathered at the Kankakee County Museum for the annual Veterans Day ceremony, celebrating service members of every background and their lasting contributions to the community. Otis Story Sr. has resigned as CEO of St. Mary's Hospital, with Luis Leon stepping in as interim leader as Prime Healthcare continues facility upgrades. The Village of Bradley approved a $1.07 million project to expand the 315 Sports Park maintenance facility, addressing space needs for its growing operations. State Representative Jackie Haas announced she is undergoing cancer treatment, assuring supporters her outlook remains positive and her work will continue. And finally, firefighters in Kankakee Township battled a large early-morning structure fire, rescuing a cat and preventing further damage.Send us a textSupport the show

Despite a few dazzling plays from Cedric Terrell III to pull the Kays to within a field goal, Providence did enough down the stretch to earn a road win at Kankakee in the second round of the IHSA Class 5A playoffs Saturday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor recaps the top local headlines from around Kankakee County. The popular New York City Deli is expanding to a second location in downtown Kankakee, with plans to open in spring 2026 following a $345,000 renovation supported by a city TIF incentive. Kankakee Community College announced its upcoming “Explore KCC Day,” inviting prospective students to learn about academic programs, financial aid, and campus life. In Bourbonnais, village trustees approved the purchase of a 2.19-acre parcel from Olivet Nazarene University to further development plans near The Grove. Manteno officials are weighing a proposal to apply the village's 5% hotel tax to short-term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo, potentially generating new tourism revenue. And finally, the March 2026 primary ballot is taking shape, with multiple contested county board races and a challenge to County Clerk Dan Hendrickson for the first time since 2018.Send us a textSupport the show

Kankakee, Bradley-Bourbonnais and Bishop McNamara all clash with CCL/ESCC powers, Wilmington and Coal City face familiar postseason faces and more in the Daily Journal's second-round playoff previews.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

The Kays got timely plays on both sides of the ball, including fourth-quarter touchdowns from Kymani Billings and Ezekiel Sherrod, to get past Lemont in a physical, defensive-minded Class 5A playoff game at Kankakee Saturday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

It's Halloween night in Kankakee County, and the Kankakee Podcast News team is wishing everyone a safe and spooky evening filled with costumes, candy, and community fun. This week's episode covers the official trick-or-treat times across the county, along with the latest local headlines. The Illinois State Police have turned over the results of their investigation into several Watseka Police Department officers to a special prosecutor. In Oswego, a 19-year-old Kankakee man faces multiple felony charges following a fatal stabbing at a Chick-fil-A. The Bourbonnais Township Park District celebrates the retirement of longtime IT administrator Frank Cianci after 12 years of service, and the Village of Bradley prepares for its 40th annual Lighted Christmas Parade, themed “A Christmas Jubilee on Gingerbread Lane.” Finally, Manteno police arrest a man accused of driving his vehicle toward two local teens.Send us a textSupport the show

Kankakee two-way senior standout Cedric Terrell III is proud to represent not just himself, but a large, well-respected family in the Kankakee community with his name. And while he may be the third, he's made a name for himself on the gridiron.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Simon Kodosky, York brace for playoff rematch with Lyons, Nazareth not getting caught up in talk of four-peat ahead of playoff opener and Lemont set for huge challenge of Kankakee in Bob Narang's Suburban Life football notebook.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

After he was one of the final preseason cuts by the New York Giants last month, Kankakee native and 2016 Bishop McNamara graduate Jonathan Ward joined the New England Patriots practice squad on Tuesday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Bishop McNamara and Herscher meet for the second time this season, Bradley-Bourbonnais and Kankakee also host first-round playoff games, and more in the Daily Journal's first-round playoff previews.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Crete-Monee scored the game's first four touchdowns, enough of a lead to withstand a late Kankakee push to emerge in the de facto Southland Athletic Conference championship game at Kankakee on FridayBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

This week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News highlights some of the biggest stories around the county as of Friday, October 24, 2025. With Halloween right around the corner, Kankakee County is offering a range of festive activities, from the thrills of Rietveld's Haunted Corn Maze in Bourbonnais to the family-friendly fun of Halloween Downtown Kankakee. Local officials are also investigating an early morning fire at an abandoned building on South Greenwood Avenue, which is believed to have been deliberately set. In other news, the Kankakee River Metropolitan Agency and the City of Kankakee have finalized a $100,000 settlement with former KRMA Executive Director Richard Simms and his daughter, closing a years-long fraud case. Meanwhile, Kankakee School District 111 celebrated the opening of its new outdoor fitness court behind Kankakee High School, promoting health, wellness, and free public access for the community.Send us a textSupport the show

Kankakee and Crete-Monee clash for the Southland Athletic Conference, Wilmington and Coal City square off for the Illinois Central Eight championship and more in the Daily Journal's Week 9 football previews.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Bill Yohnka welcomes a heartfelt lineup of storytellers for a special evening at the historic B. Harley Bradley House, Frank Lloyd Wright's first Prairie-style home. With “home” as the night's theme, each storyteller takes the audience on a powerful journey of what that word truly means—from rediscovering roots after years away, to finding faith and hope in unexpected places, to breaking family cycles and building safer, stronger homes for the next generation.The night also explores the deeper emotional layers of home—how it can be a physical space, a memory, or even a person. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of Kankakee's most iconic landmarks, this Yarn Factory Live captures stories of healing, belonging, and transformation that remind us that home is not always where we start, but where we finally find peace.Send us a text Support the show

With one regular season remaining, eight Daily Journal area schools have clinched playoff berths, two more have qualified with five wins and three more are hoping to win in Week 9 and miraculously find a way in at 4-5.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Bishop McNamara dispatched with Hope Academy in a battle of unbeaten Chicagoland Christian Conference teams on Friday to get in strong position for conference title, Kankakee picked up its sixth straight win and more football results in Friday's Daily Journal roundup.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor recaps the top local stories from around Kankakee County. A grain bin collapse in Martinton spilled tons of corn and caused power outages for more than 160 Ameren customers, though no injuries were reported. The Kankakee County Board recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month alongside Harbor House leaders, highlighting over 45 years of service to local survivors. Kankakee police recovered multiple firearms and arrested three suspects during a search on South Greenwood Avenue. In Bradley, a high school student was taken into custody after allegedly threatening to bring a weapon to school, prompting a strong police response. And finally, reports of ICE operations in Kankakee sparked fear and confusion among residents, leading some families and businesses to temporarily close as officials reiterated local law enforcement's limited involvement.Send us a textSupport the show

The Kankakee mallow is one of the rarest plants on the continent, according to the Smithsonian Garden in Washington D.C. It's a pink flower that grows on tall stalks and is native to just one small island in the middle of the Kankakee River, about an hour south of Chicago. But when botanist Rachel Goad paddled over to take a look back in 2014 with a group of native plant enthusiasts, instead they found an island overgrown with invasive honeysuckle. Was this special native plant gone for good? Perhaps, if not for the efforts of a small group of volunteers, initially led by conservationist Trevor Edmonson. “Hearing the phrase that the Kankakee mallow only grows on this island — anywhere in the world, like that is the extent of its remaining natural habitat — is such a draw for anybody, especially someone early on in their career,” Edmonson said. Today, reporter Claire Keenan-Kurgan from the Points North podcast at Interlochen Public Radio guides us on this floral rescue mission. Points North is a podcast that tells great stories from the Great Lakes. For more stories like this one, go to pointsnorthpodcast.org.

Join hosts Mason Schweizer and Steve Soucie as they preview Week 8 in Kankakee County high school football.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Kankakee's looking more like a state contender each week, seven area teams have officially punched their playoff tickets and more in this week's Daily Journal 2-Minute Drill.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

With just two weeks of the regular season remaining, seven of the Daily Journal area's football teams have clinched postseason opportunities. Here is where teams stand heading into Week 8.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Playing at home for the first time since Week 1, Kankakee came out red hot and never looked back, shutting out Bloom for a homecoming victory.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor covers the top local stories from around Kankakee County. Baker & Taylor has closed its Momence distribution center, leaving hundreds unemployed as officials work to assist displaced workers. Consumer advocates are challenging Nicor Gas' proposed rate hike, calling for reductions to protect customers. The Kankakee Police Department promoted Jose Diaz to sergeant, marking an important career milestone and increasing local representation. Sunrise Center Animal Rescue is gearing up for its Trunk-or-Treat event to raise awareness and support for pet adoptions. Meanwhile, Bourbonnais continues to refine its Riverfront Park master plan following strong community input and a major land donation.Send us a textSupport the show

Yorkville closed out Tuesday's IHSA Kankakee Regional semifinal game on a 20-0 run to beat the host Kays 26-13 and advance to Thursday's regional title game.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Bishop McNamara visits Wheaton Academy for a primetime matchup, Kankakee returns home for the first time since Week 1, and more in the Daily Journal's Week 7 football previews.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

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Kankakee scored 20 unanswered points to close out Monday's 40-26 win over Plainfield South in the first round of the IHSA Kankakee Regional.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Tristan Randall's 32-yard boot at the buzzer gave Reed-Custer a thrilling win, Kankakee continued to roll and more in Friday's Daily Journal football roundup.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In this week's episode of Kankakee Podcast News, Drew Raisor shares the top stories from around the county. Bourbonnais driver Austin McCarty captured his second straight Pro Late Model championship at Kankakee County Speedway in a season marked by family tragedy. Fortitude Community Outreach announced a new “hotel shelter model” for the winter after the city denied its request to operate an overnight shelter on East Court. The annual St. Anne Pumpkin Festival returns with dozens of local vendors and fall favorites. Animal shelters in both Kankakee and Iroquois counties are struggling with urgent volunteer and donation needs. Finally, the Citizens Utility Board is warning ComEd customers of winter electricity rate hikes averaging 10–15 percent.Send us a textSupport the show

Join hosts Mason Schweizer and Steve Soucie as they preview Week 6 in high school football in Kankakee County.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Balancing Family, Community, and Business with Syhemia Gray-Cruz of Honeybeez SnowballzIn this episode of Small Town Big Business, co-hosts Deb Barnett and Russ Williams explore the journey of Syhemia Gray-Cruz, the founder of Honeybee Snowballz. Originating from Kankakee, Illinois, Syhemia pivoted from a career in education to starting her own business during the COVID-19 pandemic to engage her children. Syhemia shares how she integrates math and science into the business, ensuring her children's involvement. The episode delves into the origins of the business name, inspired by her grandfather, and the unique New Orleans-style snowballs they serve. Syhemia also highlights the challenges she faced, the community involvement, and the importance of balancing family and business. The conversation emphasizes the significance of giving back to the community and finding one's passion. Finally, Syhemia encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to take action on their ideas and pursue their dreams.00:00 Welcome and Introductions01:01 Meet Syhemia Gray: The Inspiration Behind Honeybeez Snowballz01:35 From Education to Entrepreneurship02:26 The Birth of Honeybeez Snowballs04:41 Innovative Snow Cones: A Family Affair12:51 Community Engagement and Business Growth15:07 Lessons Learned and Teaching Moments15:25 Challenges of Registering an Old Camper17:11 Preparing for Events and Managing Stress18:27 Expanding the Business and New Opportunities21:09 Community Engagement and Healing Illinois Grant25:16 Funny Stories and Memorable Moments26:52 Balancing Business and Family28:59 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs30:30 Conclusion and AcknowledgementsRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.facebook.com/honeybeez.snowballz

In the second-ever All-City girls flag football game in the longstanding rivalry between Kankakee and Bradley-Bourbonnais, London Stroud sparked the host Kays offense while the defense held a high-octane Boilermaker offense at bay Wednesday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In the second-ever All-City girls flag football game in the longstanding rivalry between Kankakee and Bradley-Bourbonnais, London Stroud sparked the host Kays offense while the defense held a high-octane Boilermaker offense at bay Wednesday.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

In this heartfelt episode of Kankakee Podcast, Drew sits down with Brady and Joy, a couple who moved their family of nine to Kankakee just two years ago. What began as a season of new beginnings quickly turned into a life-altering journey when their youngest daughter, Eloise, was diagnosed with leukemia at just three years old.Brady and Joy open up about the shock of the diagnosis, the chaos of moving while balancing hospital visits, and the strength they found in their faith, community, and each other. From Eloise's battle through treatment to the powerful moment she rang the bell and became cancer-free, this is a story of resilience, hope, and the power of community love.Send us a text Support the show

Send us a textGrits is on the road.  We recorded this episode in Illinois with special co-hosts Paula and Darla.  Don't forget to subscribe to us on YouTubeSupport the show

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, host Drew Raisor covers the top headlines from around the area. In Herscher, a man faces multiple charges after crashing his pickup truck into a home while driving under the influence with a blood-alcohol level more than four times the legal limit. The Kankakee River Valley Regatta made its return over Labor Day weekend, bringing high-speed boat racing and family fun back to the community. A new $275,000 outdoor fitness court near Kankakee High School is set to open this fall, providing free exercise access for students and residents. Meanwhile, a February 23 trial date has been officially set for Xandria Harris in connection with the 2021 shooting that killed Bradley Police Sgt. Marlene Rittmanic and wounded retired Sgt. Tyler Bailey. And former Herscher mayor Ray Schneider has announced his run for the Kankakee County Board in District 11, earning the endorsement of outgoing member Carol Webber.Send us a textSupport the show

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Andrew McBurnie sits down with Sharla Ronchetto, director with the Kankakee Valley Theatre Association, to talk about their upcoming production of Urinetown the Musical. With a title that often raises eyebrows, Sharla explains why she championed the show, what makes it such a witty and unexpected gem, and how it balances satire, melodrama, and heartfelt storytelling.The conversation dives into the quirky world of Urinetown—a dystopian society where private toilets are outlawed, the poor are forced to “pay to pee,” and rebellion brews under the rule of a corrupt elite. Sharla shares how the show cleverly parodies Broadway classics like Les Misérables and West Side Story while still delivering laugh-out-loud moments, memorable music, and a surprisingly relevant message. Andrew and Sharla also discuss the fun challenge of staging a big musical in KVTA's intimate Black Box Theater and the unique energy that comes from working with a 15-member cast.Beyond Urinetown, Sharla gives listeners a preview of KVTA's upcoming season, which includes the holiday favorite The Christmas Schooner and the heartfelt family drama Big Fish. She reflects on her personal journey into theater and music, what inspires her to direct, and why certain shows—like Godspell and In the Heights—continue to hold a special place in her heart.Packed with humor, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of passion for community theater, this episode shines a spotlight on the creativity and dedication fueling Kankakee's performing arts scene.So what makes Urinetown more than just a funny name—and why is it the perfect show to kick off KVTA's season? Tune in to find out, and maybe even grab your tickets before the house fills up!As always, thanks for listening to the Kankakee Podcast. You're part of what makes this community's arts and stories come alive.Send us a textSupport the show

This week on Kankakee Podcast News, host Drew Raisor brings you the latest from around the region. River Valley Metro unveils a $9 million bus maintenance garage in Bourbonnais, funded through the Rebuild Illinois program and designed to expand capacity for its 26-bus fleet. Following the tragic school shooting in Minneapolis, Catholic leaders in northern Illinois are urging schools to strengthen security policies and develop long-term safety measures. Herscher prepares for its 104th annual Labor Day Celebration, a four-day event packed with music, sports, parades, and small-town tradition. At Mound Grove Cemetery, costumed performers brought history to life during the biennial “Voices of the Past” walk, highlighting notable figures who shaped Kankakee County. And police arrest two Kankakee women in connection with the Crestlane Drive shooting that left a mother and son injured earlier this month.Send us a textSupport the show

Join hosts Mason Schweizer and Steve Soucie as they preview Week 1 in Illinois high school football for Kankakee County on the Friday Night Drive podcast. More IHSA football news at Friday Night Drive: https://www.shawlocal.com/friday-night-drive/   Sign up for the free Friday Night Drive Newsletter: https://www.shawlocal.com/friday-night-drive/newsletter/#//   Subscribe and support local sports reporting: https://www.shawlocal.com/subscribe/ Merch! Visit our store https://fridaynightdrivestore.com/   Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fridaynightdrive Subscribe to our podcasts: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/friday-night-drive/id1464174968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0uUEnuTQgrgjj8XC0huuWuBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/friday-night-drive--3534096/support.

Angelina Gear, sales and marketing manager for Visit Kankakee County, joins Lisa Dent and Kankakee’s very own Steve Bertrand to talk about the Kankakee River Regatta, which is coming up on Labor Day Weekend. Gear highlights what people can expect form the regatta and all that Kankakee offers.

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, host Bill Yonka welcomes a lively cast of storytellers for a special night of community tales at The Venu Lounge in Kankakee. Yarn Factory ListenersKicking things off is “the library guy” Kent Wade, who shares an inspiring story of ambition, overcoming personal fears, and his journey from library kid to community leader—all built on the foundation of determination and hard work. Next up, Frank recalls a hilarious childhood mishap involving a disco light, Christmas curiosity, and learning the value of patience (and honesty) the hard way.Joining the lineup is Taylor Baker O'Brien, who takes listeners on a white-knuckle adventure as she faces her fears on a canyoning trip in Australia, learning that the magic often happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Otto Stuckmaier follows, weaving a warm and witty family tale set on a Martinton farm, complete with construction mishaps, colorful personalities, and the realization that family stories get even better with time.Rounding out the night is Angela Shea, who shines a spotlight on Merchant Street MusicFest - the heart and soul of summer in Kankakee. With excerpts from her “guest book” of festival-goers, Angela shares a mosaic of community voices, painting a vibrant picture of what makes Kankakee a true vibe and a place to call home.From heartfelt moments of reflection to laugh-out-loud misadventures, this episode celebrates the one-of-a-kind characters and cherished events that make Kankakee unforgettable. Tune in for stories of courage, connection, and community—you might just be inspired to get involved or, who knows, share a story of your own next time!Send us a text Support the show

In this episode of the Kankakee Podcast, Drew Raiser sits down with Jeff Cross—local caretaker, social media creator, referee, and member of the Ordinary Dads group—for a lively and wide-ranging conversation about life in and around Kankakee. Jeff shares what it's like to care for the Aroma Park Cemetery, his unexpected journey into cleaning gravestones, and how his TikTok videos spotlighting these quiet acts of care quickly gained a following of nearly 100,000. From viral flagpole videos to baseball field prep tips, Jeff reflects on his accidental social media fame and the heartfelt messages behind his online presence.The conversation delves deeper, exploring Jeff's two decades as a Big Ten and college basketball referee, the pressures and misconceptions officials face, and his unique approach to handling criticism from the stands. He and Drew swap stories about youth sports, the importance of sportsmanship, and the challenges—and rewards—of keeping your cool under fire.But Jeff's story doesn't stop at the sidelines. He opens up about the Ordinary Dads group, a singing ensemble of local fathers that raises thousands each year to help community families in need. Drew and Jeff bond over their own musical backgrounds, navigating work-life balance, leaving a positive legacy, and the value of trying new things even when failure seems likely.Throughout, the episode is packed with humor, personal moments, and real talk—from perfect days grilling burgers to the importance of supporting grandparents and embracing ordinary, everyday joys. Jeff's passion for his work, family, and the Kankakee community shines, making this a can't-miss conversation about embracing life's many roles and lifting up those around you.So what's it like to wear so many hats in Kankakee County—and what can a cemetery caretaker, college referee, and singing dad teach us about giving back and handling life's curveballs? Tune in for a generous helping of laughs, practical wisdom, and unexpected inspiration!As always, thanks for listening to the Kankakee Podcast - you're part of what makes this community special!Send us a text Support the show