What's the Story Pekin?
Episodes
177 episodes
“Interview with an Author-Illustrator”
Gary interviews Charnelle Pinkney Barlow- a recognized Central Illinois author and illustrator of children’s books.
Interview with our City Manager and City Attorney
Interview with our City Manager and City Attorney” Gary sits down with City Attorney Jim Vasselli and City Manager John Dossey
Interview with a Reporter
Gary visits with area reporter Steve Stein about media coverage and reporting in today’s challenging environment.
First United Methodist Church Celebrates 200 Years
Gary sits down with Pastor Sean Peters and Josh Hafliger and talk about the church’s plan to celebrate this milestone.
The Arlington Story
Gary hosts Terri Gambetti, Jared Olar, and Carter Owens regarding the renovation, history, and plans for this treasured, iconic downtown building.
A Tribute to Tom Elliott
A Tribute to Tom Elliott: Gary is joined by close associates who knew Tom and observed the impact he had on the Pekin Park District over his 43 year tenure there.
Let's all Go to the Zoo
“Let’s all Go to the Zoo” Gary talks with Max Lakes-Director of the Peoria Zoo and the Luthy Botanical Garden
The Excalibur Seasonings Story
The Excalibur Seasonings Story: a visit with Mike Shrier about how this highly successful local company got started and its plans to celebrate its 40 years in business.
City of Pekin’s Strategic Plan Update
Gary sits down with Mayor Mary Burress to talk about the city’s plans going forward.
"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.