What's the Story Pekin?
Episodes
168 episodes
"So Long to a Friend"
Gary recognizes Mike Eeten for his four years of hard work as the sound engineer with "What's the Story Pekin" as he and his wide relocate permanently to Florida. And....the show will go on!!
Portrait of a Patriot
Gary discusses Veterans of the American Revolutionary War buried in our area with local Historian Jared Olar.
Kouri's Bar and Grill
This week Gary talks with Jim Kouri of Kouri's Pub. Jim talks about their Journey to Pekin and how the restaurant started so many years ago and is still going strong.
History, Dirksen, and America 250
Gary concludes his visits with Ray LaHood as they discuss the impact of Everett Dirksen and of the importance of observing "America 250".
"Bipartisanship"
Gary talks with Ray LaHood about his book and its focus on his efforts to foster discussion and healthy debate during his public life.
The Ray LaHood Story
Gary sits down with a local historic icon to tell his story and experiences.
Career Readiness
Gary visits with Joel Steger and Jennifer Anderson of Pekin Community High School discussing the school's focus on the future for all students.
Some Everett Dirksen Stories You May Not Know
Chris Kaergard of the Dirksen Center does some Dirksen Storytelling.
The Jeanette Rankin Story
Gary visits with Tiffany White about the first Woman to serve in Congress
Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society Update
Gary visits with Susan Rynerson about the many things happening at their Center.
The Pekin Park District's IRVSRA Story
Gary sits down with Shawna Burnice, Superintendent of the Illinois River Valley Special Recreation Association.
What's the Story with the New Solar Field on Broadway?
Gary talks with Keith Knox of Parkside Fitness about the Park District's new solar field in the area east of the old train depot.
Pekin Park Foundation's Learning Garden
Gary visits with Jason Vogel about the Pekin Park Foundation's new Learning Garden near the historic old train depot.
A Tribute to Gloria Ranney
A visit with Greg and Seth Ranney about the life, work and inspiration of a wonderful lady devoted to the betterment of others.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Gary talks with psychologist Dr. Regina Brian about depression driven by seasonally reduced sunlight.
What's Happening in Home Improvement?
A discussion with Austin Kleiber of Kleiber Construction & Improvement about what is proper in home improvement and remodeling projects.
Pekin's Phantom Suburb of Hong Kong
Gary sits down with regular guest Jared Olar about the legend of Pekin's name and a so-called suburb.
What Happens When a City Steps in - The Pekin Motel 6 Story
Gary visits with City Manager John Dossey and Byron Chapman, Senior Executive at Dean Commercial Inc. Hospitality Experts about their plans for the vacated Motel 6 property at Court and Valle Vista, and the City's role in it.
Bits of History and a Plea for Your Story
Gary visits with Mike as they close in on 4 years of podcasts talking about history and preserving your history.
The Pekin Agreement
A continued history lesson from Jared Olar about an important mid-19th century event that occurred here.
Pekin and the Spanish American War
Jared Olar talks about Pekin’s participation in the Spanish American War
The Shipman Family Story
John Ackerman shares an inspiring story of an emancipated slave family who settled in our area; were kidnapped by Slave Hunters; then rescued by their white neighbors.