What's the Story Pekin?

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. 

Gary visits with Amanda Waltmyer, owner of the new Gypsy Rising Yoga Studio in Pekin. 

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. 

This week Gary and Jared Olar talk about a visit to Pekin Schools by WWII POW's. 

This week Gary and Jared Olar talk about the history of Pekin's Business and Industry.