Talking Princeton: Recent Episodes
Jim Gassen
Imagine standing at the threshold of a house that not only witnessed pivotal moments in the fight against slavery but also sheltered those on the perilous path to freedom. In this episode we'll visit the Owen Lovejoy House, a National Historic Landmark nestled in Princeton, Illinois.
Recently, I sat with Gary Bruce of Bruce Jewelers in Princeton and had a lovely discussion about three generations of Bruce's in the jewelry business. This is a great opportunity to glimpse into the history of Princeton, the history of a family business, and the life of an interesting man.
In this podcast you'll get to know one of your neighbors in Princeton, Kevin Shyne, who has recently published a book of poetry titled "The Faith of Fragile Things". Kevin will also be reading selected poems from his book on Thursday, February 23rd at the Princeton Public Library at 5:30PM.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jay Schneider of the Apollo Theater here in Princeton, IL. It was fun to learn about his growing up in Germany, his journey coming to Princeton, and chatting about running the Apollo Theater. He also spoke frankly about his accident, recovery, and his sincere thankfulness to our community for their support.
Here's a track from one of the albums from Ann Stewart and the Banjo Buddies Dixieland Jazz Band. Ann and the group will perform on Saturday evening, February 26th at Festival 56's Grace Theatre in downtown Princeton, IL.
I'll do periodic updates for Festival 56 and the Prairie Arts Council in Princeton, IL. In this episode, Brian Harper (Festival 56 box office manager) and I will speak with Ann Stewart of the Banjo Buddies Dixieland Jazz Band, and Laura Brigham creator of the MomSemble show about their upcoming performances in Princeton. We'll also look forward to what's on the calendar of events for the Festival 56's spring and summer season shows.
Relevant links:
Festival 56 Grace Theatre - www.festival56.com
Ann Stewart - Banjo Buddies Dixieland Jazz Band - https://banjobuddies.com
Laura Brigham - Michigan MomSemble - https://m.facebook.com/The-Michigan-Momsemble-1147198992086918/posts/
Meet Kelsey & Dane Stier, a lovely young couple who have taken on a huge project in restoring an 1850's era hotel. Their sincerity, passion, and honesty shines through in this enjoyable and informative interview.
In this episode I interview Terri and Sallee Zearing of Flour House Bakery and Coffee. It's a great opportunity to learn more about them, their business and their commitment to the community.
On Saturday evening the Maureen Christine Trio performed at the Festival 56 Grace Theatre in downtown Princeton. One of the highlights of the evening was jazz pianist Don Stille's rendition of Jingle Bells.
Dave's work has been described as eclectic, whimsical, one of a kind, FUNKY folk art. I've admired Dave's art for years. It was a treat to sit down and talk with him about what motivates him, where he's been, and where he's headed artistically.
Get caught up on what's happening at Festival 56 and get a peek at the upcoming shows planned. Also listen to an interview with Maureen Christine of the Maureen Christine Trio who will perform in Princeton, IL on Saturday, December 4th at Festival 56's Grace Theatre.