Kankakee County Museum Executive Director Veronica Featherson holds her 9-month-old daughter, Evelynn, at the museum as they prepare decorations for the 47th annual Gallery of Trees. Pg. 10
Kankakee’s Frank Lloyd Wright home celebrates 125th anniversary
What does the “Season of Giving” mean to you?
As we arrived to the months of November and December this year, the season took on a new meaning for me - I became an aunt on October 27.
Upon hearing that my sister-in-law, Amanda, and our newest addition to the family, Levon Patrick, were healthy and happy, a wave of gratefulness - a kind I’ve not quite felt before - washed over me. It was a gratefulness for life and safety, for a little divine timing, and ultimately for family.
While I am 100% already thinking of the cute (tiny socks!) and meaningful gifts my husband, Chris, and I get to shower our new nephew with - the best gift we’ve already received is the chance to spend time appreciating this new life, and each other.
This time we are getting to spend watching Levon grow in his fir st few weeks of life, as well as supporting Amanda and her husband, Davey, is something we didn’t expect to get this soon as they live several hours away in northeast Michigan, and we had plans to go meet him next month.
But since little Levon decided to join the party during their visit to Davey’s hometown on the South Side of Chicago, coming into the world at the very same hospital as his dad and grandma, we have been gifted this precious extra time together. It is something I will cherish forever.
I am still very much looking forward to the gift-giving part of the season - it’s such a joy to find or make that perfect gift for someone, or to volunteer or donate to a great local nonprofit.
But this year, I’m finding myself the most grateful for the gifts of family and timethe most valuable gifts of all. Tiffany
Tiffany Blanchette, Magazine Editor
LIFESTYLES OF KANKAKEE COUNTY
Published by ShawMedia Phone: 815-936-NEWS
PUBLISHER
Steve Vanisko
svanisko@shawmedia.com
EDITOR
Tiffany Blanchette 815-937-3380
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ADVERTISING
Lyle Turro 815-937-3376
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Lauren Powell 224-595-3569
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Design Kristin McKenrick
Contributors: Taylor Leddin-McMaster, Paul Fruhwirth and Jeff Bonty
Photographers: Tiffany Blanchette and Bill Jurevich
Photos by Tiffany Blanchette
Northfield Square’s Christmas Tree Wonderland
On display Nov. 28 through Dec. 25 is the seventh annual Northfield Square Mall Christmas Tree Wonderland at 1600 Route 50, Bourbonnais. All trees will be placed in the mall’s center court near the Santa setup. The event transforms the mall into a festive forest with trees beautifully decorated by businesses, churches and community members, bringing holiday cheer each year.
From Dec. 4 through Dec. 28, take a stroll through the Kankakee County Museum’s 47th Annual Gallery of Trees! View over 35 trees beautifully decorated by participating nonprofits to the theme “Blast from the Past.” Don’t forget to vote for your favorite one. Hours are Thursday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Kankakee’s annual Lion Wreathing & City Tree Lighting Head to the Kankakee Public Library on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 5:30 p.m. to see two lucky children help Kankakee Mayor Chris Curtis place the ceremonial wreaths on the library’s iconic lions, Readmore and Seemore, before joining a parade to the Kankakee Train Depot for the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree. The Kankakee FIre Department escorts Santa Claus to the celebration, which continues indoors at the depot with cookies and hot chocolate. Enjoy live music and a new light show in the park.
On Dec. 4 at 6 p.m., the Village of Bourbonnais will host its annual Rockin’ Around the Tree Lighting at The Grove, 700 Main St. NW, Bourbonnais. The free event features holiday carols performed by area students, ice skating at the mobile synthetic rink with skate rentals available, food from vendors and a special appearance by Santa Claus.
Bradley’s 40th annual Lighted Christmas Parade
On Friday, Dec. 5, the Village of Bradley’s 40th annual Lighted Christmas Parade, themed “A Christmas Jubilee on Gingerbread Lane,” steps off down Broadway Street at 6:30 p.m. Festivities begin before then with special Christmas character appearances. Parade line up begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends with a visit with Santa at Village Hall. The kickoff, red carpet activities will take place at the corner of Cleveland and Broadway.
The Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society will host its annual holiday market, Les Artisans Arts & Crafts Fair, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Kankakee County Fairgrounds Expo, 213 W. 4000 S. Road, Kankakee. Les Artisans is one of the finest and longest-running handmade markets in Kankakee County. The fair will host dozens of artists and fine crafters, offering a variety of handmade items and original art at all price points. Shop from dozens of makers, bakers, artists, growers and enjoy specialty foods, coffee, brunch & lunch items and more. There is plenty of parking. A suggested donation of $1 from each visitor will help BGHS continue its mission of historical preservation.
Opposite Page: Santa Claus lets out a jolly “Ho, ho ho” as the city of Kankakee’s Christmas tree lights up in 2023 at the Harold & Jean Miner Festival Square during the annual Lion Wreathing and City Tree Lighting in downtown Kankakee. The event returns Dec 4.
Above: A giant gingerbread man walks in the Bradley Christmas Parade in 2022 as dozens of entries travel along Broadway Street. The 40th parade steps off on Dec. 5.
Christmas on the Farm
Get ready for a jolly good time at Christmas on the Farm, held on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Perry Farm Park. The Bourbonnais Township Park District is bringing the holiday magic to the farm with activities, treats and plenty of merry moments. For more information and tickets, visit www.btpd.org/park-district-events. »
Christmas in Manteno
From 3-8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 in downtown Manteno is the annual Christmas in Manteno celebration. The village transforms into a winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer. Enjoy visits with Santa, Christmas Tree Lane, Jingle Bell Business Stroll, sleigh rides, the Downtown Christmas Lighting Ceremony, Frosty’s Fun Zone and the Holiday Market alongside entertainment.
Riverview Historic District Holiday House Walk Kankakee’s Riverview Historic District will once again feature five homes as well as Frank Lloyd Wright’s first prairie-style house, the B. Harley Bradley House, during its annual Holiday House Walk, running 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7. Funds raised will continue to support neighborhood events, promotion and improvements. Tickets are $20 in advance online at www. riverviewhistoricdistrict.org. Day-of-the-event tickets will be $25. The tour begins at the Railroad Depot in Downtown Kankakee, 197 S. East Ave.
Advance tickets are also on sale at the following merchants: Busse & Rieck and The Flower Shoppe (both in Kankakee); and Tholens’ Garden Center and Ba Da Bloom Flower Shop (both in Bourbonnais).
KVSO holiday concert/Symphony of Sweets
At 4 p.m. Dec. 7, the Kankakee Valley Symphony Orchestra will host its annual holiday concert at Asbury United Methodist Church, 196 S. Harrison Ave., Kankakee. This year’s theme is “A Baroque Christmas” and will feature Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Greensleeves, pieces by Bach and Mozart, as well as selections from Handel’s The Messiah. The KVSO chorus will join the performance as well.
Following the concert, the annual Symphony of Sweets will be held by the KVSO Women’s Guild at the Kankakee Country Club where the group auctions items, experiences and baked goods. Tickets for the concert and the dinner can be purchased at kvso.org.
Kankakee Christmas Parade & Mistletoe Market
The fourth annual Kankakee Christmas Parade kicks off at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13 in downtown Kankakee. Hundreds line Schuyler Avenue for this longstanding Kankakee tradition, which returned in 2022 after a hiatus since1993.
Preceding the parade will be a Mistletoe Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Harold and Jean Miner Festival Square located at 199 S. East Ave. in Kankakee.
Hundreds line the sidewalks of Schuyler Avenue in December 2022 for the return of the Kankakee Christmas Parade, the first since 1993. The fourth annual parade is set for Saturday, Dec. 13.
Miracle at the Grove
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14, bundle up and join the Village of Bourbonnais and Community Arts Council of Kankakee County for the Miracle at The Grove, 700 Main St. NW, in Bourbonnais. Walk into a winter wonderland and enjoy an outdoor holiday market with magical surprises along the way. For more information on the free event, visit communityartscouncil.org.
Opportunities are plentiful to give back during the holiday season:
The Salvation Army of Kankakee County:
Throughout the holiday season, the Salvation Army will have red kettles outside of various locations in the county to collect money for those in need. For more information, go to centralusa.salvationarmy. org/kankakee. Additionally, the Salvation Army will have Angel Trees that provide gifts to local children in need. Angel Trees are on-site in shopping malls, churches, organizations and corporations. For more information, go to www.tsamm.org/angeltree.
United Way of Kankakee & Iroquois Counties:
This organization fights for the education, financial stability and health of everyone in the community through initiatives that aim to empower individuals and families. Resources such as the 2-1-1 help line and the www.kanihelp.org website are crucial assets to the residents of the counties the United Way serves. Should you need help, or would like to give back, visit www.myunitedway.org for more information.
Caesar’s Palace - Resale for Rescue benefitting River Valley Animal Rescue:
This charity shop in downtown Momence transforms into a winter wonderland of gifts and decor for a good cause during the holiday season. The thrift store, at 110 East Washington St. in Momence and operated by River Valley Animal Rescue, swaps out its usual selections of household goods and clothing for an entire inventory of Christmas-themed items. For more information, visit www.rivervalleyanimalrescue.org or search for the nonprofit under “Ceazars Palace Resale for Rescue” on Facebook.
Right: Christmas decor lines the shelves at Caesar’s Palace Resale for Rescue, the thrift store operated by River Valley Animal Rescue in Momence, in Dec. 2024.Proceeds from the sales of donated items directly benefit the homeless animals in RVAR’s care.
areOpportunities plentiful to give back during the holiday season ”
County Museum welcomes visitors to reminisce this holiday season
Story and photos by Tiffany Blanchette
The Kankakee County Museum will soon be aglow with the twinkle of Christmas lights for the 47th annual Gallery of Trees.
Starting Thursday, Dec. 4, more than 35 trees decorated by area non-profit organizations will fill the museum with notions of nostalgia as the museum’s theme this year is Blast from the Past.
“We have seen so many changes in the county, even just within our organization over the past few years, that we find ourselves reminiscing and talking about the “good ole days” regularly,” said Veronica Featherston, executive director of the Kankakee County Museum.
“We thought it would be a fitting theme to celebrate how the people and events from the past have paved the way to get us to where we are now,” she said. “I hope [visitors] can enjoy a sense of nostalgia.”
More than 4,000 visitors are expected to come out for the local favorite holiday tradition.
Anytime someone visits the museum, located at 801 S. 8th Ave. in Kankakee, through Dec. 28 they can vote for their favorite tree with winners earning 1st, 2nd and 3rd in adult and children’s voting categories.
Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, with the museum closing on Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Years Eve. A suggested donation is $3 per person. While there, the museum’s store will be open to shop for gifts.
All December long visitors can also tour the museum grounds and check out the Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School Annual Art Show.
Featherston said it’s a wonderful time to visit the museum and admire the hard work many organizations, and museum staff, put in to make it a special experience.
“I love that I get to welcome a constant string of visiting families into the museum to enjoy the magic created by community organizations all December long,” Featherston added.
Visit kankakeecountymuseum.com for more information.
The B. Harley Bradley House glows in the twilight in the Riverview Historic District of Kankakee.
‘This American treasure would not now stand’ Kankakee’s Frank Lloyd Wright home honors its history in celebration of 125th anniversary
By Taylor Leddin-McMaster | Photos by Bill Jurevich
“But for the beginning there can be no end; But for the start no one can finish; But for this man’s appreciation of art, beauty and history, this American treasure would not now stand.”
These words are etched onto a plaque honoring Kankakee’s Stephen Small. The plaque, which was the star of a rededication on Sunday, Oct. 12, is affixed near the entrance of the B. Harley Bradley House, Kankakee’s very own Frank Lloyd Wright home.
The words were penned by L. Lee Thacker, who – along with fellow area attorneys Robert LaBeau and Michael Dietchwiler, and architect Ron Moline – purchased the Bradley house in 1990 to convert to offices.
Wright in Kankakee, the nonprofit dedicated to the preservation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s first-ever prairiestyle home, hosted the event Plaques & Perspectives to remember Small, who was working on converting the home to a bed and breakfast when he passed away in 1987.
The event, spearheaded by Wright in Kankakee board members Bill Jurevich and Lynn Ahlden, gave both Wright and local history aficionados the opportunity to hear from three architects with ties to Wright.
Architect John Eifler was working with Small on the bed and breakfast project.
“Steve was very enthusiastic about the house,” Eifler said, noting Small would often pick his brain for both his architectural and Wright knowledge.
The goal of the project was to convert the second floor and the stable to guest rooms. The project was never completed due to Small’s untimely death.
Eifler used Wright’s words to sum up Small’s motto.
“You have to go wholeheartedly into anything in order to achieve anything worth having.”
This could also sum up the motto of the second speaker, architect Gaines Hall, who, along with his wife, Sharon, restored the home in 2005.
“We certainly didn’t start things; we were just one step along the way,” noted Hall, who credited Sharon for the implementation of the gift shop.
The nonprofit organization’s executive director, Bob Bohlmann, was the final architect to speak, sharing stories of working with Small in the 1970s.
“He was really into detail and really wanted to know what was happening,” Bohlmann said of Small. “I really enjoyed working with him. He knew what he was doing.”
Several years after the Hall’s restoration, the home was put in the hands of Wright in Kankakee, which is now celebrating the home’s 125th anniversary.
“Wright in Kankakee came along and made it a public [space],” Hall said, noting this was always the intention.
Built in 1900 and situated at 700 S. Harrison Ave. in Kankakee, the house is part of the Riverview Historic District. A variety of events have been hosted during the year-long celebration of its history and iconic architecture.
As the home’s milestone year comes to a close, its beauty can be experienced up close this holiday season during the Riverview Historic District Holiday House Walk on Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. as the Bradley House will be one of the featured decorated homes.
For tickets and information, visit riverviewhistoricdistrict. org/event/holiday-housewalk-returns.
For more information on Wright in Kankakee, go to wright1900.org.
Bohlmann, executive director of Wright in
talks about his favorite part of guiding tours - ending in the front living and dining area, which he calls the “dessert of the tour.”
By Jeff Bonty
Kankakee County has a new trail to travel. The county launched the interactive Kankakee County Mural Trail last month, and whether you’re a resident or a visitor to the county, this one proves to be artful.
Visit Kankakee County officials describe it as a self-guided, splashy new way to explore the area’s art, culture, and creativity. There are 17 outdoor murals across multiple communities. They bring to life the story of local pride and imagination. Of the 17 murals on the trail, 13 are located throughout Kankakee.
“Public art tells the story of who we are,” said Angelina Gear, sales and marketing manager of Visit Kankakee County. “The mural trail celebrates the creativity and pride of our community while giving people a reason to explore our neighborhoods and discover something beautiful right around the corner.”
It’s a way to view the county through a new lens while also offering viewers a chance to slow down life and take some photos. Participants can get started by downloading the free e-Atlas app and selecting the Kankakee County Mural Trail. The mobile-friendly tool offers step-by-step navigation, mural details and a tracker to follow your progress.
The eAtlas app will have the most up-to-date details as new pieces are added or updated. Visit www.playeatlas.com to download.
Highlights of the trail include:
• History and stories behind each work of art
• Interactive map with navigation and fun facts
• Photo ops and a chance to share your journey
Local artist Michael Costanza has a mural that is part of the trail. He collaborated with fellow artists Mary Bass and Fermin Barbosa. It is located in the 200 block of North Schuyler Avenue next to the iconic Paramount Theatre.
Costanza said it is an honor to be involved with the project. “Public art, especially in a place like Kankakee, is more than decorating a wall or street; it’s identity,” he said. “Being part of the mural trail means contributing to something that people experience in motion in rhythm with their daily lives. Whether someone’s taking their kids to a movie or just passing by, it’s meaningful knowing that this mural becomes part of their landscape, even if for just a moment.”
According to Costanza, beyond that, being part of a broader mural trail is about legacy. “It’s about leaving behind something that reflects the time we’re living through and the stories we’re still writing in Kankakee.”
Mural Trail (top left to right):
The mural at Piggush Engineering on North Schuyler Avenue is part of Visit Kankakee County’s new interactive Kankakee County Mural Trail.
The mural on North Schuyler Avenue near the Paramount Theatre was created by local artist Michael Costanza.
This dahlia-mallow mural was created by local artist Katie Bretzlaff, of Hedgeapple Arts Art Studio at Martinez Tacos in downtown Kankakee.
A frog seems to peer toward the sky in the mural created by local artist Michael Costanza on North Schuyler Avenue near the Paramount Theatre.
This mural in downtown Kankakee pays tribute to the Kankakee Ramblers Cycling Club. Just beyond the mural are the bike lanes added to the streetscape.
Opposite page lower left: This mural, called the HUB, located near the historic Majestic building was designed by Dave Baron of Kankakee.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 ½ cups AP flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 2 sticks salted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• ¾ cup (light or dark) brown sugar
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups white chocolate chips/chunks
• ½ cup dried cranberries or Craisins
• 1 tsp vanilla paste or 1 tsp vanilla extract
DIRECTIONS:
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, and ½ tsp of salt, if desired)
3. In the bowl (ideally of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment) add the butter and the sugars. Cream together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, waiting about 30-60 seconds before adding the second one.
5. With the mixer on low, add the vanilla paste or vanilla extract. Mix for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Add the peanut butter and mix until combined.
7. With the mixer still on low, add the flour mixture in thirds, waiting for each addition to be well incorporated before adding the rest.
8. Turn the mixer off and gently fold in the white chocolate chips or chunks, and the dried cranberries.
9. Using a meatball or cookie scoop (about two TBLs), scoop dough onto a pre-greased sheet pan, making sure to space the dough about 2-3 inches apart.
10. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, rotating the sheet pan halfway.
11. Let cool on the sheet pan for 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS:
• 1lb ground pork
• 1lb ground beef (85%)
• 2 onions, diced
• 2 bell peppers (red, green, yellow or orange), diced
• 2 jalapenos, diced (leave the seeds for extra heat)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 TBL tomato paste
• 5 TBL chili powder
• 1 taco seasoning packet
• 1 tsp each of: paprika, thyme, cumin, garlic powder, Mexican or traditional oregano
• Pinch of cayenne
• 2 TBL all-purpose flour
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef stock/broth
• 1 beef bouillon cube
• 1 28-oz can of crushed tomatoes
• 2 TBL cilantro, chopped
• salt and pepper
DIRECTIONS:
1. Combine the pork and beef in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onions, peppers and jalapenos and cook until softened, about another 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the tomato paste and use it to scrape off the fond (brown bits) on the bottom of the pan.
5. Add the chili powder, taco seasoning and other spices.
6. Let the spices bloom for about 1-2 minutes then add the flour. Cook the flour until it is no longer visible, about 1 minute.
7. Add the beans, the stock, the tomatoes and bouillon cube and bring the chili to a boil.
8. Reduce to low heat and let simmer for 45-60 minutes.
9. Taste and add salt and pepper as desired.
10. Mix in chopped cilantro, if desired. Top with Fritos, grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, and additional cilantro.
Photos provided by Riverside Healthcare
On September 18, Riverside Healthcare and the Riverside Healthcare Foundation hosted the annual Samaritan of the Year reception at the Riverside Bourbonnais Campus. At the event, Dr. Joehar Hamdan, oncologist with Riverside Cancer Institute, was honored as the Samaritan of the Year. Additionally, the ribbon was cut on the campus’s new gazebo, which honors the memory of the late Harry Bond, longtime Riverside Healthcare board member and, most recently, chairman of the boards of both the Riverside Healthcare and Riverside Medical Center Boards of Directors.
Photos by Bill Jurevich
On Sunday, Oct. 12, a plaque rededication event at the B. Harley Bradley House was hosted by Wright in Kankakee, the nonprofit dedicated to the preservation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s first-ever prairie-style home in the Riverview Historic District.
The event, Plaques & Perspectives, honored the memory of Stephen Small, who was working on converting the home to a bed and breakfast at the time of his death, as well as the architects and community members who have had a hand in stewarding the historic property to its current glory in its 125th anniversary year.
Attendees gather for the plaque rededication ceremony at the B. Harley Bradley House.
Architect John Eifler reminisces about his involvement in the restoration of the B. Harley Bradley House for Mr. Stephen Small
Harley
Architect Gaines Hall speaks of his ownership, along with his wife, Sharon, and restoration of the B. Harley Bradley House.
member
reading of his words inscribed on the
Holiday Gift Guide
Find that perfect gift at one of these local businesses
Busse & Rieck Flowers, Gifts & Plants
2001 W. Court St., Kankakee, IL 60901
Phone: (815) 933-2295 • Toll Free: 800-831-2801
www.busseandrieckflorist.com
Tholens Landscape & Garden Center
31 E 2500 S Rd, Kankakee, IL 60901
Phone: (815) 939-9670
www.tholenshgs.com
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1. Infinity Lights
Back by popular demand, these unusual lighted pieces are sure to make a statement in your home. This year we have trees, snowflakes, snowmen, Santas, candy canes, gingerbread, and angels.
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2. Real Touch garlands, swags, picks and wreaths
It’s easy to mistake these items for fresh cut greens, and they are sure to make your doorway, mantle or tablescape look stunning.
3. Snow globes
are a great way to light up your holiday décor. They are battery operated or powered by a cord and most have a built-in timer. From snowmen to Santas and Nutcrackers to Cardinals, we are sure to have one that fits your style.
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4. Aromatique Scents
If you love “The Smell if Christmas,” we’ve got you covered! In candles, wax melts, room freshener and potpourri, this scent is the perfect way to awaken your senses for the holiday season. These items also make great gifts!
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5. Aspen Mulling Spices
If you’re looking for a tasty holiday treat, bring home a carton of Aspen Mulling Spices in Original or Cinnamon Orange Blends. These spices aren’t just for your cider, either. They can add a holiday zing to your cocktails, meat rubs, marinades, muffins and more!
Frank’s Appliance Center and SleepSource
1035 W Superior St., Bradley, IL 60915
131 N Main St., Manteno, IL 60950
franksappliancecenter.com 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
1. KitchenAid Standmixer – A timeless classic that stirs up joy and creativity. From holiday cookies to homemade bread, it’s the ultimate gift for the one who loves to bake their heart out.
2. LG Washer & Dryer – Gift the gift of fresh starts and cozy laundry days. A perfect pair that makes every load feel like a little luxury.
3. Frigidaire Chest Freezer – For the one who loves to plan (or stock up on leftovers and good deals!). A little extra freezer space means more room for homemade meals, sweet treats and peace of mind!
4. Maytag Dishwasher – Because the best part of dinner is the laughter – not the cleanup. A thoughtful gift for anyone who loves to host without the hassle.
5. KitchenAid Air Fry Oven – Crispy, golden, and quick! This multitasking kitchen must have makes weeknight dinners and holiday feasts a breeze!
6. Cariloha Bamboo Bath Towels – Wrap them in everyday luxury. Soft, plush towels make mornings feel like a spa day and holidays feel extra cozy
7. Cariloha Resort Sheets – Give the gift of sweet dreams with a premium sateen finish bamboo sheet set. Elegant, breathable, and silky smooth – because great sleep never goes out of style.
8. Simmons BeautyRest Black Pillows – Fluff up their holiday season with the comfort they didn’t know they needed. Perfect support, endless snuggles, and guaranteed “thank yous”
Our local United Way is supporting 26 nonprofit programs that reach a combined total of over 45,000 people in Kankakee and Iroquois Counties. These services include housing programs, food pantries, mental health services, youth programs, and support for seniors and persons with disabilities.
The Daily Journal is teaming up with the United Way of Kankakee and Iroquois Counties to raise as many funds as possible to help our neighbors this holiday season. Mail your donation along with the form below to our office: Attn: Emily Greene 1 Dearborn Square, Suite 200, Kankakee, IL 60901 NOTE: Make checks payable to the United Way This is your chance to help.
Photos by Tiffany Blanchette
The Kankakee County Convention & Visitors’ Bureau, now known as Visit Kankakee County, held its annual luncheon meeting at Deer Ridge Barn in Limestone on Oct. 8, 2025. Community leaders from various organizations, businesses and governmental offices were in attendance to learn about the county’s tourism numbers and current outreach campaigns.
