Gary sits down with Christine Barr-Kemper of the Center for the Prevention of Abuse to update us on issues in front of them and fund raising efforts to meet them.”

There’s more to your local library than books! In this episode of What’s the Story, Pekin?, Gary sits down with Victoria and Katrina from the Pekin Public Library to explore the many programs, activities, and opportunities available for people of all ages. From engaging activities for children to educational programs and exciting opportunities for adults, the library offers something for everyone in our community.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity, hoping to learn something new, or searching for ways to connect with others, you might be surprised by everything happening right here in Pekin!

Tune in to hear what Victoria and Katrina have to share, discover your next favorite library program, and find out how the Pekin Public Library continues to bring our community together, one program at a time.

Pekin District 108 Update:

A visit with Pekin Grade School District 108 Superintendent Len Ealey

The Civic Chorus and Friends in Harmony Story: Gary sits down with Debbie Mahoney to share this long term local musical story.

What’s the story behind a book that brings one of Pekin’s most notable sons to life for a new generation? In this episode of What’s the Story, Pekin?, we sit down with local author Corrie Salmon and Tiffany White from the Dirksen Congressional Center to talk about Everett McKinley Dirksen: Gardener, Baker & National Lawmaker. Together, they share the inspiration behind the book, the story of Dirksen’s Pekin roots, and the process of telling the story of a man whose life reached from a local Pekin childhood to the halls of Congress. It’s a conversation about history, storytelling, and discovering the many layers of a remarkable Pekin story.

PCHS 303 Superintendent Danielle Owens discussed the opening of and the district's plans for the new school year.

Recap of the 2026 Jimmy Johns Medallion Hunt and The Entire PekinMarigold Festival

Gary is joined by Ryan and JoElle Master owners of this popular downtown bar and grill who share its storied history and operation.