What's the Story Pekin?: Recent Episodes
Gary Gillis - Host
What’s the Story, Pekin?-a podcast where we share stories of what’s happening in Pekin as told by their authors. We will discuss the community’s profile and personalities, attempting to be an objective source of information on topics of interest to many of us. In the process, we hope to discover the power of possibilities and find reasons for much needed optimism.
Gary sits down with Pastor Sean Peters and Josh Hafliger and talk about the church’s plan to celebrate this milestone.
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: 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” Gary talks with Max Lakes-Director of the Peoria Zoo and the Luthy Botanical Garden
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.
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!!
Gary discusses Veterans of the American Revolutionary War buried in our area with local Historian Jared Olar.
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.
Gary concludes his visits with Ray LaHood as they discuss the impact of Everett Dirksen and of the importance of observing "America 250".
Gary talks with Ray LaHood about his book and its focus on his efforts to foster discussion and healthy debate during his public life.
Gary visits with Joel Steger and Jennifer Anderson of Pekin Community High School discussing the school's focus on the future for all students.
Gary sits down with Shawna Burnice, Superintendent of the Illinois River Valley Special Recreation Association.
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.
Gary visits with Jason Vogel about the Pekin Park Foundation's new Learning Garden near the historic old train depot.
A visit with Greg and Seth Ranney about the life, work and inspiration of a wonderful lady devoted to the betterment of others.
Gary talks with psychologist Dr. Regina Brian about depression driven by seasonally reduced sunlight.
A discussion with Austin Kleiber of Kleiber Construction & Improvement about what is proper in home improvement and remodeling projects.
Gary sits down with regular guest Jared Olar about the legend of Pekin's name and a so-called suburb.
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.
Gary visits with Mike as they close in on 4 years of podcasts talking about history and preserving your history.
A continued history lesson from Jared Olar about an important mid-19th century event that occurred here.
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.
Gary visits with John Ackerman about their current focus on developing ways that we’ll celebrate the 250th birthday of the USA.
Gary visits with Keith McKeever, Executive Director of Pekin’s United Way about their current focus and new initiatives to better meet our area needs.
This week Gary talks with Terri Gambetti about her fond memories of the Christmas Celebrations and shopping downtown Pekin.
Gary visits with Brooklyn Ballard on her effort to establish a local chapter in our community.
Gary sits down with Dr. Regina Brian, owner of Be Integrative Psychology about her Practice.
Gary visits with Russ Hamm to look back at this downtown business as it celebrates 50 years of service in Pekin.
Pekin Park District Commissioner Gary Gillis sits down with IAPD's Director of Advocacy & Strategic Initiatives Maura Freeman to talk about how park districts can preserve historical locations.
Pekin Park District Commissioner Gary Gillis discusses his podcast "What's the Story Pekin?" with IAPD's Director of Communication and Digital Content Wayne Utterback.
Jared Olar is Gary's guest as he shares the story of the days before refrigeration when Pekin was home to a number of Ice Houses.
This week Gary talks with Dr. Danielle Owens, Superintendent of PCHS. Dr. Owens talks about all of the improvements to the school and grounds over the past 2 years.
This week Gary sits down with Mayor Mary Burress and City Manager John Dossey to talk about business development on the east side of the city, as well as "Home Rule" for the City of Pekin and what advantages it provides the city and its residents.
Gary visits with Rich Kriegsman, a leader in the creation of Pekin Park District's Performing Arts Venue sharing how it was named.
Gary visits with the owners of one of Pekin's newer stores dedicated to dog training, boarding and grooming. Dog lovers won't want to miss this episode!
Tiffany White talks about the Dirksen Centers 50th Birthday; its early years; its impact and its future.
This week, a visit about the City's largest undertaking in decades with Mayor Mary Burress, City Manager John Dossey, and Director of Economic Development Josh Wray.
Gary visits with Bruce Huber who is part of a service that has been training new drivers in defensive driving for many years. It's a great group with a proven track record of creating better, safer, and road conditions-aware young drivers.
This week, a visit with Val Springborn, Chairperson of this year's festival; and Maureen Naughtin, this year's Grand Marshal.
Gary visits with Sophia Vansaghi about her past year as Pekin Marigold Festival's 2024 Miss Marigold.
Keith Knox, Manager of Parkside Fitness talks about the start and history of this storied fitness facility.
Gary visits with Harland Shields, the husband of the late community leader and icon Carol Shields.
Pekin Resident Heather Fitzanko talks about RAGBRAI, the oldest, largest and longest bicycle touring event in America, and how she is preparing for it.
Gary visits with John Ackerman about the USS Tazewell, how Tazewell County got its name, and next year's "USA 250" Celebration.
John Ackerman talks about the underground Railroad in Tazewell County and this year's Juneteenth Celebration.
This week Gary talks with Co-owner Shaun Schlosser of the Pekin Country Club. They talk about the transition as well as plans for the Country Club.
This week Gary talks to the newest Executive Director of Taps, Tori Menke. They discuss exciting changes and an upcoming project at their facility.
This week, Gary talks with Dale and Lela Sandrock about their vison and execution of the new Outdoor Sports Complex that was built and donated to the Village of North Pekin.
Gary visits with Chief Ranney about the May 14th events and the local homeless situation.
Gary visits with local fitness guru Kelly Fults who shares the story of her quest for the "Six Star Medal" signifying her competing the world's six original major marathons.
Pekin's Speech Team Phenom Alina Vang. Gary sits down with the PCHS Senior as she tells the story of her recent accomplishments in competitive extemporaneous public speaking.
What's the Story celebrates its 100th Episode. Gary sits down with Mark Luft who conceived of our Podcast and Mike Eeten who is on the other side of the mic as all of them take a look back.
This week Gary talks with Kristen Walraven and Kyle Cain about all the Pekin High School does for students with special needs.
This week Gary talks with Mary Haynes about her journey from the Country Nook, to Maddie Mae's and now Mauries.
This week Gary welcomes Carol Merna, CEO of the Center for Prevention of Abuse. Carol talks about the many programs and services they have to offer, and a new building that will be constructed in Pekin.
This week Gary talks with the Mayor about several new exciting projects in the city including some new businesses coming to the City.
This week Gary talks with retired City Engineer and City Manager, Denny Kief. Denny talks about the history of the project, how it started, and the plans for the future.
The owner of Bears Bites, Samm Hutchinson, talks about her business that has recently moved into 282 Derby St. Samm's company makes and sells Dog Food, Dog & Cat treats, and other items for your four-legged family member.
Today, Gary has guest Mary Ann Ladendorf behind the mic to talk about all that the City of Pekin has to offer her clients as they move into the city.
This week, Gary talks with Shayla Ewing and Ashley Neal from Pekin Community High School about a clever program to encourage kids to have more regular attendance.
This week Gary and Terri Gambetti talk about the successful Pekin Bicentennial Celebration and all of the events that were planned monthly.
This week Gary talks with Tazewell County Clerk John Ackerman about how things went locally in the past historic election. The upcoming local election on April 1st was also discussed.
Gary talks with John Ackerman who gives some perspective on Pekin's supposedly past racist reputation.
This week Gary interviews Carolyn Cracraft-Coordinator for this free, grant supported I.T. training program.
Gary talks with Pekin City Engineer, Josie Esker about the next phase of the Court Street Project.
This week Gary discusses with Gary Cassidy about a place he grew up at, the Pekin Mall.
Greg Batton is a familiar voice in the Peoria area and has been co-hosting The Greg and Dan Show on WMBD Radio since 2005 with partner Dan Diorio. This week, Gary sits down and talks with Gary about his upbringing in Pekin.
This week Gary talks with Larry Kenney who is a graduate of Pekin Hight School and has been in radio broadcasting in several markets including Peoria, and a famous voice in many Cartoons, and other shows. Don't miss this fascinating podcast.
Gary talks with Ray and Joyce about what Pekin looked like when they were younger. Ray & Joyce talk about the popular places in town they would visit that are no longer there.
This week Gary and Jared go way back and discuss the history of Pekin Schools including the very first school house in Pekin.
This week Gary talks with Superintendent of District 108 about the new Pekin Alliance for Literacy Success program.
This week Bailey Gambetti and Amy McCoy join Gary to talk about new additions to the Festival this year and more!
This week is a visit with the curator of Pekin's great museum facility in the old Franklin School, Roger Brotherton.
This week Gary talks with Dave Molleck, the Editor of Pekin's new "Hometown Voice" monthly newpaper.
This week Gary is joined by Dick Schermer - member of the PCHS Class of 1962 who looks back at the City from years ago.
This week Gary talks again with Shawn Powers about the History and interesting facts about the Veterans Memorial Arena.
Tiffany White of the Dirksen Center and Gary visit on the importance and challenges surrounding the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
This week Gary talks with Shawn Powers, Superintendent of Recreation for the Pekin Park District. They discuss the upcoming July 6th Bicentennial Bash held at the Pekin Park.
Gary talks with Josh Wray, Director of Economic Development for the City of Pekin. Gary and Josh talk about what it takes to bring new business to the City as well as some current projects in the works.
Gary talks with Jarod Olar about names of Iconic places around Pekin to find out who they were named after and why.
Gary talks with Keith McKeever about efforts to honor Veterans at the June 15th Bicentennial Street Fair and Pekin's United Way.
This week Gary talks with Bailey and Jarod about an exciting new idea that is taking shape downtown.
This week Gary speaks with Joanna Carrol, Facilitator of Media Services for Pekin School Dist. 108, and Laura Bieller, Classroom Tech at Edison Jr. High about upcoming "Bicentennial Bytes".
This week Gary talks with Terri Gambetti about some of the exciting events happening with the Downtown Development.
This week Gary talks with the City of Pekin Engineer Josie Esker. Josie gives updates on the Court Street Project as well as the Derby Street Projects.
Gary has a fascinating conversation with Susan Rynearson from the Pekin Genealogical Society about all that is available and the family history that can be found.
This week Gary sits down with Rich Hawkins to talk about some of the most exciting times in Pekin High School Basketball.
This week Gary talks with Jarod Olar about some fascinating history on how Pekin was developed and got its name.
This week Gary its down with Shannon Sandoval and Tiffany White who share stories about their father who served as the City's Mayor.
This week Gary checks in with Burt Dancy to talk about the Union Mission and the Construction projects going on.
This week, Gary sits down with Burt Dancey to talk about the incredible story and life of his Father, Chuck Dancy.
This week Gary talks with Leonard Ealey, Superintendent of Pekin School District 108. Mr. Ealey talks about a big improvement project taking place at Broadmoor Jr. High School.
This week, Gary sits down with the 93rd District State Rep, Travis Weaver. Travis gives some insight on some inner working of Politics in Springfield that you may not know, as well as shares more about his background and how he got involved in Public Service.
This week Gary talks with Heather Robertson who is on the Pekin Bi-Centennial Celebration Committee. Gary and Heather talk about upcoming events and special things plans to celebrate.
Gary talks about the upcoming State of the City address coming up with Amy McCoy, Director of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce. Mayor Burress and John Dossey will be presenting information at the event.
This week, Gary shares some very interesting facts about JFK, to wrap up the last miniseries where he spoke with Jim Deverman. Join us for some facts that you may not have known!
Gary continues his conversation with Jim Deverman. On this Podcast, Jim talks about his family's history of coming to town and how it began.
Gary sits down with Pekin's own Jim Deverman to talk about the JFK assassination. Gary and Jim talk about the video that was captured, and how that video was obtained by a local Pekin man.
A fascinating interview with Jim Deverman as he tells the story of being a part of the Funeral Detail while in the Coast Guard.
This week Gary talks with Cole about his role as the Athletic Director, exciting sports opportunities, and his vision for the sports program at Pekin High School.
This week Gart sits down with the Mayor to talk about Good News in Pekin. Mayor Burress talks about some exciting victories for the City, some new businesses coming to town, and some changes at City Hall.
This week Gary talks with Dr. Phillis Dewitt about some life stories, the book she wrote about those experiences, and the Journey she has been on over the years. You will not want to miss this uplifting interview.
Miss Marigold 2023, Zoe Nizzia sits down with Gary this week to talk about her experience with the Miss Marigold Pageant and some of her ideas and goals for the future.
This week Gary talks with the Chairman of this years Festival, Charles Robertson. Gary and Charles talk about the theme and some exciting additions to the Festival this year!
This week Gary talks with Executive Director of the Park District, Cameron Bettin about updates to the Park roads and their Stategic Plan moving forward.
This week, Gary talks with Alisha Dault who is the Administrator of the Miller Center in Pekin. Alisha talks about many of the programs and opportunities at the Cetner as well as the Farmer's Market
Join Gary and Amy McCoy as they talk about the St Jude Runs, the history as well as some fun "inside" stories!
CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. This week Gary has a fascinating conversation with the Director of Recruitment, Marketing, and Compliance, Ryan Lacerna. Gary and Ryan talk about the purpose and history of CASA.
This week Gary sits down with Jared Olar to talk about the history of the Lakeside Cemetery and also talks about tours that Jared hosts at the location.
Gary talks with Audio Engineer Mike Eeten about documenting lessons learned in life along with some favorite life quotes.
Gary talks with John Ackerman about the upcoming 2023 Juneteenth Observation honoring Nance Legins Costley and William Costley, June 17th.
Our guest this week is Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey, the President of Illinois Central College. This is an interested conversation you will not want to miss as Gary and Sheila talk about the Pekin Campus and some exciting changes coming!
This week Gary sits down with Pekin High School Girls Soccer Coach, Edgar Sandoval to talk about the success of the sport in Pekin.
Gary talks with the Superintendentof Recreation about some new and exciting things happening in the park this summer.
Gary sits down with County Board Chairman David Zimmerman for a talk about a new proposed Justice Center Downtown Pekin.
This week Gary talks with Cory Proehl who is the Director of Golf with the Pekin Park District. Cory shares some exciting news about Lick Creek Golf Course and some other interesting facts about the two courses.
Gary sits down with all three Mayor Candidates to learn more about them and their goals for Office as the Mayor of Pekin.
Gary sits down with all three Mayor Candidates to learn more about them and their goals for Office as the Mayor of Pekin.
Gary sits down with all three Mayor Candidates to learn more about them and their goals for Office as the Mayor of Pekin.
This week Gary is joined by Realtor Bailey Gambetti who talks about the Real Estate market in Pekin.
This week Gary sits down with the 2022 Best Business Honorees Terri Gambetti of Leo's Art Studio, and Jack Steger of Steger's Furniture.
This week Gary's guest is Rich Kriegsman. They talk about the exciting fundraising project underway to build a new Performance stage in Mineral Springs Park.
Tiffany White, Executive Director of the Dirksen Center, and Gary Gillis discuss some exciting news with the Center as well as some interesting facts about how the material is obtained.
This week Gary sits down with Amy McCoy, the Director of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce. Amy and Gary talk about Celebrating Pekin's 2024 Bicentennial, as well as the Annual Leadership academy which is underway.
We all LOVE animals! You will enjoy this conversation with Gary Gillis and Holly Crotty with TAPS. Holly talks about pet adoptions and the organization.
Holly also talks about the process of adoption and why there is a screening process in place to adopt an animal from TAPS.
Gary sits down with Pastor Jim McMlarey with First United Methodist Church in Pekin for a fascinating conversation about Christmas and several facinating facts we bet you did not know! Don't miss this one!
This week Gary speaks with Brandy Wright, the Social Ministries Manager for the Salvation Army. Gary also welcomes Greg Ranney with the Pekin Outreach Initiative.
Both Brandy and Greg talk about their organizations and how they are making a difference in Pekin.
Gary invites the Director of the Pekin United Way to the podcast this week to talk about the Organization. Heather Robertson talks about fundraising for United Way, and all of the Organizations they help.
Gary talks with Erik Reader this week about Pekin Downtown Development and Pekin Main Street.
This week Gary welcomes the City of Pekin Engineer, Josie Esker. Josie sits down to discuss the new snow ordinance which requires homeowners to remove the snow from the sidewalks in front of their homes.
This week, Gary talks with Mike Eeten with CME Business Solutions.
Gary and Mike share ways and ideas of how you can gather and write your family history, leaving future generations "Your Story".
This week, Gary sits down with the Chief Operating Officer of Pekin Insurance, Joel Jackson. Gary and Joel talk about the history of the company and some exciting news about company growth! Tune in to hear this fascinating interview.
This week Gary talks with Mayor Mark Luft as he returns to the Podcast to talk about Development in Pekin, as well as a new Ordinance in Pekin and what that looks like for the citizens of Pekin.
This week, Gary talks with the on-site Administrator Tony Howard, who is the Director of Emergency Support Services for Unity Point Health Pekin. Gary and Tony talk about some upcoming changes as well as some exciting new technology at the Hospital.
This week join Gary Gillis as he gets the story behind Pekin's oldest Service Clubs. Gary is joined by Sheila Coussens-Martin of Pekin Kiwanis, and Greg Cassidy of Pekin Rotary.
Join Gary this week as he sits down with Executive Director of the Pekin Chamber of Commerce, Amy McCoy to talk about the upcoming Marigold Festival.
Join Gary as he speaks with this year's Chairman of the Pekin Marigold Festival Brandon Burling. Brandon talks about the upcoming festival as we celebrate 50 years!
This week Gary sits down with Pekin Police Chief John Dossey to talk about the Department, goals, and accomplishments.
Join Gary this week as he speaks with Tiffany White, Executive Director of the Dirksen Congressional Center. Tiffany talks about the Center and also the legacy of Mr. Dirksen.
Join Gary this week as he speaks with Jared Olar, the Local History Specialist at the Pekin Public Library. Join Gary and Jared as they discuss some of President Abraham Lincoln's days in Pekin Illinois.
Join Gary this week as he sits down with Jeff Brooks, Director of the Pekin Public Library. The Pekin Library hours are:
Monday - Thursday
9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
This week Gary welcomes Cameron Bettin who is the Executive Director of the Pekin Park District. Gary and Cameron talk about new exciting additions to the parks, as well as things to come!
Join Gary as he sits down with Asst. Superintendent Leonard Ealey to talk about Pekin Public Schools Dist. 108.
Programming note: This podcast was recorded before the tragic events in Uvalde Texas.
Join us this week as Gary speaks with Superintendent of District 303 High School, Dr. Danielle Owens.
This week your host Gary Gillis talks about Pekin Illinois with Mayor Mark Luft and the Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce Amy McCoy.