With Pal Tom Skilling
Chief Meteorologist
WGN TV CW Chicago - Noon and 9pm Weather Anchor
News!! -
Welcome To The Official Website For The Mike Kara Radio Show - Eye On The Community. My hope with this program, is to bring You revelant, heartfelt interviews from Community Leaders, Leaders of Organizations in The Community and Members of Our Beloved Community truly making a difference. I have the honor of speaking with some really great Human Beings. People who love Our Community and are fighting for it. Whether it be a Mayor, Councilman, a President of a Lions Club or President of a Jaycee Chapter, I want to get the scoop on all the good going on. I am thrilled to be able to promote as many Community Organizations and their awesome events as I can.
You will be able to listen to My Radio Program, right from this website. Each program is divided roughly into 3 nine minute parts. Within this time, I will try to bring You as much content as I can.
If You are interested in advertising on this radio program, please e-mail Me at mikekara@comcast.net
I strongly encourage Community Business, big or small, to consider purchasing ad space on this Radio Program.
Special Ad Package -
Mike Kara Media Group
Sponsorship/Underwriting Opportunities
Mike Kara Radio Show - "Eye on The Community"
Internet Radio Program
The Mike Kara Radio Program - "The Celebrity Eye"
Internet Radio Program
$400 Sponsorship Package
Package Includes -
*Fully Produced 30 to 60 second radio ad.
*Includes Sponsorship (Your 30 or 60 second ad) of Your Choice of six Segments.
*For each segment sponsored, Your radio ad will run at both the beginning and end of the segment.
*Each Show is divided into nine minute segments, so You can mix and match. So You can sponsor two whole shows, which contains 3 segments per show or sponsor six different shows, by sponsoring six different segments for six different shows.
*Ads run for a full year.
*Each additional sponsorship of a single segment is just $25 each, again for a full Year.
*Package also includes a 5 minute one on one interview with Mike Kara to talk and promote Your Business or Product(s)
Contact - Mike Kara
(630) 910-3481
http://mikekara.com
mikekara@comcast.net
Please Call Mike Kara at (630) 910-3481 to see the power of what The Mike Kara Radio Show can and will do for You.
Meet Our Sponsors
Rich Moore - Shanahan's Irish Food and Spirits of Downers Grove and Woodridge
Please Click Here
Help Wanted -
Sales Opportunity
Commission Only
But earn $100 per $400 ad package
You get 25% of Whatever You Sell
I am currently looking for people interested in selling sponsorship packages for Mike Kara Radio Show - "Eye on The Community" and The Mike Kara Radio Program - "The Celebrity Eye".
I am looking for sales people that can sell a $400 ad package to various businesses in The Chicagoland Area.
When You sell a package You will receive $100 per package sold. You can work when You want and as often as You want. You can decide how much time You want to put into this. If You want to sell one package a week, one a month or even one year, that is ok with Me. Obviously, the more time and effort and the more You sell, the more money You will make. If You have alot of contacts or know alot of business people then this is for You. You get to choose the leads and are free to work any contact or lead You want. I do not have cold call list or anything like that. If You know alot of people and do good networking with people, then this is for You. When You sell a package, then You will receive $100. You set the hours, and the time and effort You want to put into this. When a package is sold, then You are paid. So there is no pressure to sell. This is a great part-time opprortunity or something in addition to a part-time job or even full-time job. This a great way to make some extra money.
So if You are interested in this sales opportunity and would like to sell these ad packages please let Me know. Please call Mike Kara at (630) 910-3481 to discuss this opportunity. Again if You can sell these packages then You right for this. No sales experience is needed. It is all about if You can sell these packages, not a long resume. Actions speak louder and words, and I am looking for some that can deliver results.
Now Playing -
5/01/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
The Class of '68
http://www.theclassof68.com
Interview Featuring Band Members -
Jim Bartholomew - Frontman/Lead Vocals
Steve Wild - Bass Guitar/Founding Member of The Band
The Class of '68 began in 2002 as the Bob Ross Tribute Band to celebrate a birthday for one of Steve Wild's closest friends. In the process, Steve met Woody Johnson, who volunteered to sing with a guy who hadn't played in thirty years! The event re-kindled a love affair with 1960's music in both and gave birth to the Class of '68, a band dedicated to the "Golden Age of Top 40" With the addition of others who share the passion, the band is one of the few whose members actually played 1960's rock and roll in the 1960's at some of the Chicago areas most popular venues including the Cellar, the Green Gorilla and the Pink Panther.
Check Out The Class of '68's totally awesome kick butt website at http://www.theclassof68.com
Part One
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Part Two
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Part Three
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4/20/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Room 19
http://www.enterroom19.com
Interview Featuring Band Members -
CJ - Lead Vocals
Samantha - Bass/Backing Vocals
Alex - Guitar
James - Drums
ROOM 19 consists of CJ/Lead Vocals, Samantha/Bass, James/Drums and Alex/Guitar. Not only are they awesome musicians, but they are great friends and not bad to look at either! They have over 30 years combined experience recording/live which includes T.V. and radio appearances, publication write ups and performances with national acts. They have played venues such as The Original Mothers, Central Park Bandshell and Double Door. Their EP, ROOM 19 - Enter Room 19 will be coming out soon. So, keep an eye out for Chicago's hottest new Alternative Rock Band!
I must say that this band really kicks some serious butt. The new evolution of Rock N Roll is right in front of Our face - Room 19. Rock N Roll needs a good punch to the head and Room 19 is that punch. As many of You know, I, Mike Kara, do not really believe We still have Rock N Roll in this Country. Too much pop, sappy wishy washy glop. Rock N Roll is drifting right into the grave yard. Resurrection Mary is going to have a friend to walk up and down Archer Avenue with, his name - Rock N Roll. Rock N Roll is pretty much dead in this Country. However, do not fret, kiddies, because Room 19 is preserving the natural progression of Rock N Roll. Room 19 brings that edge, that alternative flavor to Rock N Roll. Rock N Roll has come a long way since the 1950's. There needs to be a natural flow, a time line for Rock N Roll, which I am not seeing currently.
So let's all get out their see a Room 19 Show.
Please visit Room 19's website at http://www.enterroom19.com
Part One
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Part Two
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Part Three
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4/19/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Tanya Lee
77th State President
Illinois Jaycees
From Springfield to Deerfield, from Mount Vernon to Mount Prospect, from Cairo to Chicago, for over eighty years, Jaycees has been providing leadership opportunities to empower young adults to achieve more. Many business leaders, community leaders and several U.S. Presidents have all been touched by Jaycees.
Since the 1920's, Illinois Jaycee Chapters have led the way to change the face of our state, one community at a time, making a positive and lasting difference like no other organization has ever done; like no organization will ever do. Local Jaycee chapters across the State of Illinois provide emphasis in the following areas: Community Outreach, Individual Development, International Involvement and Economic & Business Expansion.
While They have supporters of all ages, Jaycees is an organization which was created to provide younger adults, age 18-41, opportunities which they might not otherwise have. Once members pass forty years of age, they are asked to stay on in a support role to mentor others as needed. They know to respect younger adults' need for their own space to grow, to learn cause and effect in the "real world" and to take risks and to have the chance to succeed or fail by making decisions independently. That's leadership in action. That's Jaycees.
Jaycees offers ways to improve professional and life skills, while making a difference in local communities. As a Jaycee, not only do members instantly share a common bond with thousands of folks in the local area who have been touched by Jaycees, they also share a common bond with millions of people world-wide. It's truly an eye-opening experience like no other.
Those who join Jaycees do so on a local level by joining a Local Chapter. They automatically become members of the State, National and International organizations, literally providing a world of opportunity to challenge themselves to lead the way in the business, politics, community and personal affairs.
Perhaps you've never heard of Jaycees. That's OK. Now you're getting to know what They're about. There are no secret handshakes nor hidden agendas; at a local meeting you'll find members who come from all walks of life. If you're looking for real, down-to-earth, positive people, look no further.
Members join for many of their own personal reasons - for friendship, a sense of community, to enhance their business network, or just to get out of the house and have some fun. One common bond among Jaycees is the belief that is written in the Jaycee Creed, written in 1947 by William Brownfield, stating: "Service to humanity is the best work of life."
Sounds simple, doesn't it? Well, the good news is, for many members, explaining Jaycees is no more complicated than that. We lead to serve; we serve to lead.
Another way to explain Jaycees is by the projects they run. At any given time in Illinois, there are over a thousand projects going on - all led by Jaycee Chairmen and Chairwomen. From operating a community festival or a haunted house project to raising money for charities, or running local seminars on business or personal improvement topics, Jaycees are always challenging themselves to identify needs and fulfill them in their local communities.
Jaycees is often confused with being a charity. Jaycees is not a charity; however, Jaycees runs charitable projects. Think of Jaycees as a "leadership organization with a heart." Unlike undergraduate or Master's programs in leadership and business, Jaycees learn their leadership skills in the real world. We use them every day. Jaycees identify real problems in our communities; then, we go out and solve them. That's leadership in action.
Young people can, and do change the world every day. Thye can't do it all alone though. The Jaycees need others to join together to achieve amazing results. Jaycees provides an incredibly dynamic platform to get organized, get energized and motivate others to follow. As a member, you can call upon people in your home chapter and beyond to help you make positive changes in your home town, your state, your country and yes even to change your world.
Notice, how that works? Changing the world starts at the local level with you.
So, if you, or someone you know would like to get involved in Jaycees, feel free to use visit their website as a resource to contact a Local Chapter in your community to find out how you can get involved in your home town. Browse the site and learn more. You may call Their State Headquarters in Springfield at (217) 529-5379.
Illinois Jaycees Website - http://www.illinoisjaycees.com
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Part Two
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Part Three
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4/12/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Roger Hopkins
President & CEO
Choose DuPage
DuPage Regional Development Alliance
Choose DuPage is a groundbreaking concept in economic development for DuPage County. Never before has one organization solely dedicated itself to advancing DuPage County as a premier business location.
Choose DuPage's core activities focus on business retention and expansion, business attraction, and supporting local economic development initiatives.
Staff of Choose DuPage are available to assist you in every facet of your business or career development. Staff communicates regularly with local economic development professionals including municipal and state economic development directors, utility companies, workforce development professionals, and educational institutions throughout the County. This coordination ensures that business development resources are readily available.
Choose DuPage Website - http://www.choosedupage.com
Part One
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Part Two
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Part Three
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4/11/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
The 45's
http://www.seethe45s.com
Interview Featuring Band Members -
Al Dolatowski - Bass Guitar, Vocals
Al Parquett - Guitar, Vocals
Jerry Lieberthal - Keyboards
Frank Stauffer - Drums, Percussion
The 45's play the music We all know and love. This five piece powerhouse puts out great Oldies/Classic Rock/Feel Good Music. They put out so much sound they actually sound like a seven piece band, rather than a five piece band. The 45's pays tribute to all that simply awesome Rock N Roll of the 60's and 70's. The energy the band puts out into the crowd, gets everyone a dancing. Whether it be Elvis, The Beatles, The Ides of March, The Buckinghams, The Grass Roots, even Johnny Cash, The 45's aim to please. The 45's love the music they are playing and really appreciate their fans and their audience. They live for the crowd. They like to interact with the crowd and even welcome audience members coming up on stage and singing a tune.
Check Out The 45's Website -
http://www.seethe45s.com
or
http://www.myspace.com/45band
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Part Two
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Part Three
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4/10/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
F. Timothy Muri
President & CEO
Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago
Rotary District 6450 is teaming up with Easter Seals of Metropolitan Chicago to build a very special Autism School and Research Facility. District 6450 will be donating over 2 million dollars to this very special cause.
Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago (ESMC) is building a new $32,000,000 Therapeutic School and Center for Autism Research in the Illinois Medical District (IMD) that will help meet the needs created by the explosive growth in autism.
This unique facility will be the only one of its kind to combine on a single campus educational, research, training, early intervention, school-to-work transition and independent living capabilities. Nowhere else in the country will this “continuum” of services for children with autism be so well integrated at a single campus facility.
The new center will allow Easter Seals to expand its landmark autism program and custom design a facility to meet the special needs of students with autism, emotional behavior disorders and severe learning disabilities. Interior plans and features from special acoustic finishes and lighting fixtures to therapy and gross motor skills rooms will help reduce distractions and promote more effective learning.
Phase I of the project is expected to be completed in Fall, 2008. The new state-of-the-art 87,000 square foot Therapeutic School and Center for Autism Research will incorporate a therapeutic school, specially-designed research capabilities, ESMC administrative offices as well as independent living facilities in Phase IV of the project.
The importance of this project is evident in that the State of Illinois, the City of Chicago, the Illinois Medical District (IMD) and the University of Illinois communities will all be involved with Easter Seals' project along with private partnerships.
Plus The Chicago White Sox has donated over 2 million dollrs to this cause as well.
The location of the new school in the Illinois Medical District facilitates a natural synergy with world-class autism researchers. Working in concert with the researchers from the University of Illinois and others will lead to the development of breakthrough interventions and successful strategies for working with individuals with autism.
Dr. Stephen Porges, Director of the Brain-Body Center, Department of Psychiatry at the University of Illinois at Chicago and other researchers will be working on the causes of and determining successful interventions for autism. Researchers will be able to unobtrusively observe students at the school in order to assess problems and create successful interventions and research conducted at the school will be available to other research sites around the entire world via the internet.
And since April is Autism Awareness Month, this is a great time to talk about all of this.
Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago provides comprehensive services for individuals with disabilities or other special needs and their families to improve quality of life and maximize independence.
Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago Website - http://www.eastersealschicago.org
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Part Two
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Part Three
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4/03/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Smokin' Gunz
http://www.smokingunz.net
http://www.myspace.com/smokingunzlive
Interview Featuring Band Members -
Jim Banke - Lead Vocals
Artie Specht - Bass/Vocals
Smokin's Gunz is The Midwest's premiere Top 40 Country/Tribute Band. Currently, the group consists of 4 full-time members, including; Jim Banke (guitar/lead vocals), David (lead guitar/vocals), Artie Specht (Bass guitar) and Mr Robert Broz (drums/vocals), with over-whelming professionalism and dedication to the music produced by the band. The group has played many venues in the Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin region and has acquired a strong fan base.
Smokin' Gunz musical style and background is derived from straight forward rock-n-roll, combined with hard driving, country music styles, backed by heart felt harmony vocal arrangements, with some real foot tapping dance tunes to provide musical entertainment for all types of audiences regardless of their musical preferences.
Smokin' Gunz is comprised of talented musicians that become one with their instruments. Showmanship is first class and stage presence is fine tuned to a highly professional caliber not often found in the local venue circuits of the Chicagoland and surrounding areas. Smokin' Gunz is a sure bet to produce a fun and entertaining atmosphere that will be remembered for many years to come and keep the fan-base growing to unimaginable heights. This is definitely not your average local bar band, but, much more.
Please!!!, Check Out Smokin' Gunz Websites
http://www.smokingunz.net
http://www.myspace.com/smokingunzlive
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3/30/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Dave & Donna Duo
http://www.davericeproductions.com
Interview and Music Featuring
Dave Rice - Keyboards and Vocals
Donna Lori - Vocals
Well, We have a very special treat for everyone. I had the pleasure of interviewing Dave Rice and Donna Lori of The Dave and Donna Duo. An interview similiar to what I do with most bands. But besides an awesome interview with two great performers, We also have the pleasure of enjoying one of their concerts, featuring nearly 60 minutes of their concert at Shanahan's Irish Food and Spirits of Woodridge, Illinois. We got a mini-concert for Mike Kara Radio Show - Eye on The Community. As You may or may not know, this was the first time I tried anything like this, and I must say, it turned out great. Plain awesome!! With the great cooperation of Dave and Donna, I was able to feed their audio signal right into My mixer. So We have a little mini concert with Dave and Donna.
Dave and Donna really put on a show. They perform a variety of songs, several featuring the like of Nora Jones, Roy Obison, Neil Diamond, "The Chairman of The Board" "Old Blue Eyes" Frank Sinatra, Elton John and many many more.
This concert which We took audio from, took place on Sunday March 30, 2008 at Shanahan's Irish Food and Spirits of Woodridge. Dave and Donna play Shanahan's quite a bit, including a special Valentine's Day Concert earlier this year as well. Dave and Donna really packs 'em in and they know how to work the crowd and how to provide quality entertainment to their audience. Audience participation is key for them, as We were able to pick up some of the crowd singing Sweet Caroline.
Dave and Donna's website can be found at http://www.davericeproductions.com
Part One
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Part Two
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Part Three
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Part Four
Special Dave and Donna Concert Audio
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Part Five
Special Dave and Donna Concert Audio
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3/19/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Sherri Lloyd
Volunteer
Humanitarian Service Project
http://www.humanitarianservice.org
It is the mission of the Humanitarian Service Project to alleviate the pain and suffering that poverty brings to needy seniors and children living in DuPage and Kane Counties, IL without distinction of gender, race, creed, caste, or color.
The Humanitarian Service Project (HSP) started in Karole Kettering's back bedroom in 1979 with the purpose of helping needy families during the Christmas season in the DuPage County area by providing them with an abundance of groceries and gifts. The Christmas Offering still continues today providing 100 impoverished families with 4 weeks of groceries, frozen meats, fresh produce and gifts for all the children. In 2006, we distributed 23 tons of food and 12 tons of Christmas gifts.
The Senior Citizen Project grew out of that initial effort in 1982 as a commitment was made to help those in need all year long. This project focuses on helping the many needy senior citizens living in DuPage and Kane Counties, IL. The Senior Citizen Project delivers over 80 pounds of nutritious food, which includes: fresh produce, frozen meat, fresh bread, and five bags of non-perishable food. They also receive household products, personal care items, and special gifts from their Secret Pal. All of these items are delivered right to the homes of needy seniors each month at no cost to them.
The Children's Birthday Project was started in 1992 to reach the youngest poor in the surrounding communities to help make a needy child's birthday a truly memorable occasion. Each child receives a package sent to their home in time for their birthday, which includes: four new toys, four new books, one new game, party supplies, school supplies, stuffed animals, and other filler gifts such as yo-yo's, playing cards, matchbox cars, and bubble solution. At Christmas, these children also receive gifts from their very own wish-list sent to them.
Feed the Kids started in Summer 2004 to provide impoverished families in the area with a grocery delivery during the months of June, July & August. Each family receives at least 250 pounds of food each month. Included in the deliveries are non-perishable food, fresh produce, fresh bread, meat, and dairy products.
All of our programs are fueled by the love and generosity of local clubs, schools, businesses, churches and individuals who contribute both financially and through volunteering. We are committed to having the support we receive at HSP be meaningful and empowering by creating a wonderful environment for volunteers of all ages, as well as by effectively using financial contributions that we receive to impact DuPage and Kane's poor in the most significant manner possible.
Humanitarian Service Project Website - http://www.humanitarianservice.org
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3/10/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Ken Gross
President-Elect
Bloomingdale-Roselle Rotary Club
Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Rotary is the world's first and largest service club.
The Bloomingdale-Roselle Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at noon for lunch at Spavone's Restaurant. Come have lunch with them! They have about twenty six members. In the recent past, they have provided support for the following organizations, charities, and activities: KIDs CARE Photo ID, Polio Plus, CHARACTER COUNTS!, MYMs (Melding Young Moms), Rotary Youth Leader Award Camp (RYLA), Toy Distribution to Needy, Lake Park HS - Helena Lange Gymnasium German-American Student Exchange, Humanitarian Service Project, Educational/Vocational Scholarships, Children's Opportunity Grants, DuPage Positive Recreation Opportunity League (WDSRA), Bloomingdale Village Directory.
The mailing address for their club is
Bloomingdale-Roselle Rotary Club
P.O. Box 596
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
Websites for Bloomingdale-Roselle Rotary Club
http://www.geocities.com/brrotaryclub1/rotaryinfo.htm
or
http://www.clubrunner.ca/CPrg/Home/homeS.asp?cid=2360
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3/04/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Michael Ericksen
Rotary International
District 6440
District Governor |
Rotary International is an organization of service clubs known as Rotary Clubs located all over the world. There are more than 32,000 clubs in more than 200 countries, and there are over 1.2 million members world-wide. The members of Rotary Clubs are known as Rotarians. The stated purpose of the organization is to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Members usually meet weekly for breakfast, lunch or dinner, which is a social event as well as an opportunity to organize work on their service goals.
Rotary's best-known motto is "Service above Self", and its secondary motto is "They profit most who serve best".
Rotary District 6440 is one of two Rotary Club Districts covering The General Chicagoland Area and one of three Rotary Club Districts covering Northern Illinois.
Rotary District 6440 includes 70 individual clubs. Rotary District 6440 does a variety of projects including a run-walk event as well as many projects helping the entire world. Rotay District 6440 does it's fair share of both worldwide projects as well as Community Projects. District 6440's scope is very broad, helping just about anyone They can, truly making a difference in Our own backyard as well as the world. Rotary's focus is on helping everyone, whether that's Paris, Texas or Paris France. Most of the work Rotary does aboard is helping third-world Countries, providing them with both funds and manpower. Rotary is known for people and caring and loving people, people who actually go to these Countries and give their time and talent. These Rotarians could and probably should be compared to peple in The Peace Corps and GreenPeace. Rotary does not just throw a big crate of supplies and money with a parachute attached. Rotary is people, people leading a hand.
Rotary has just about completed their task of eliminating Polio from this Planet. Rotary had decided they wanted to rid the world of Polio and for the most part that task is completed. They are so close. In a year or two Polio will be wiped out, mainly thanks to Rotary.
For more info on Rotary Club District 6440, please visit Their awesome website at http://www.rotary6440.org
Rotary International Website - http://www.rotary.org
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3/01/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Pastor Randy White
Candidate For Lt. Governor For Illinois 2010
http://www.randy4ltgov.com
Randy White is a candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Illinois in 2010. His wife Vicki is the assistant nurse manager at Keokuk Area Hospital and Randy has two grown children Lisa and Randy Jr. They live in Hancock County, rural Hamilton, Illinois. Randy grew up in Liberty, Illinois (near Quincy) and has a Bachelor's of Science degree from St. Louis Christian College. Randy has dedicated His life to assisting others and has served in many capacities during His life. Randy is proud and privileged to serve as a chaplain for several police agencies, including the Illinois State Police. He has performed as a Crisis Counselor locally, nationally, and internationally. Randy went to assist in New York City after the awful tragedy of September 11th and in Sri Lanka after the tsunami. He continues to support our troops and am actively involved in the National Guard Enduring Families program in Iowa. Randy has served on the Hancock County Board and made a late bid (Late September of 2006) for the Lieutenant Governor position as a write-in candidate in 2006. Randy believed as a Christian He had no other choice but to run. Neither the Democratic nor Republican parties fielded a candidate which was in alignment with Biblical principles. While unsuccessful in 2006, He believed it was important to offer the citizens of Illinois a choice for their Lieutenant Governor. To that end Randy has decided to run again in 2010. Randy's goals are the following:
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End Corruption in Illinois.
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Keep taxes down while paying Illinois obligations and reduce the deficit.
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Support our 2nd Amendment rights.
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Address and settle the illegal immigrant issue, while dealing fairly with legal immigrants.
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Defend the family (i.e. marriage = 1 man and 1 woman)
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Protect innocent life.
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Bring jobs and businesses back to Illinois
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Reform our education system to ensure school choice; fair and adequate funding.
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Take care of our veterans and continue to support our troops.
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Adhere to our state and federal constitutions |
|
Randy appreciates your time and support for His candidacy. If anyone is interested in making a donation towards Randy's campaign, please visit the "Support" section of His website. If you have a suggestion, or an issue you would like Randy to address, please visit the "Feedback" link to enter your comment's. Thank you. |
Randy White's website - http://www.randy4ltgov.com
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2/29/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Michael Hutchins
http://www.michaelhutchins.com
Chad Rager
http://www.chadragergroove.com
Michael Hutchins and Chad Rager are both seasoned musical performers with both having much experience in the music biz. Michael and Chad are skilled performers Individually and are now going to team up to form a new band. Michael has been sitting in with The Chad Rager Trio and now the two are looking to develop a "Big Band" Style Band. Michael is an awesome kick-butt singer and Chad is just a wonderful Drummer and Band Leader. The two are now joining forces to create new, excting and bigger projects.
Michael Hutchins -
Having been raised on an apple and cherry orchard in Michigan the family farm is a part of Michael's history, his present, and his future. The people he proudly calls his family are truly extraordinary.
Some call him Michael and some call him Mike. Fans in St. Louis know him as Hutch but most recently he�s been addressed a few times as "Hey, Frank"; a compliment which he holds in the highest regard.
As a singer Mike has a passion not only for jazz but Prince as well; don�t tell him I told you. That�s our little secret. As a person Mike is one of the most genuine and caring people I know. He loves people and he loves life. As you can tell by his photos he's a bit of a ham as well.
Mike moved from St. Louis to Chicago in March to be closer to family and to pursue his love of singing. With his natural talent and love of performing he has a bright future here in Chicago.
Chad Rager (ray-gr) -
is a entertainer that just happens to be a drummer.
When you hear him play, he immediately evokes memories of two of the greatest. . .
Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich.
Chad and his band the Chad Rager Groove are currently touring in support of his first CD "21st Century Groove" with Strokeland Records .
The band is performing in large and small concert venues, corporate events,
and playing in high schools and colleges all across America
as a fundraiser for their music departments.
"Chad Rager demonstrates solid skills and the ability to weave an interesting percussive display."
The band mixes a variety of moods while introducing the whole band along the way: soloists, sections, and of course Chad Rager's driving drums, as everybody gets a chance to shine.
"The horn section often uses lines that are richer and more jazzy versions of Tower of Power horns."
Naming the band the "Chad Rager Groove" reflects the fact that this band is not confined to traditional big band selections, but that it is confident enough to venture out into rock and funk selections as well.
The guiding principal of the band is the "groove", smooth tasteful sounds that appeals to listeners ears.
Rager's arrangements have reintroduced me to an old friend, only all spruced-up. Familiar, but new.
Loved for its familiarity but appreciated in its new incarnation.
"A truly impressive performance"
If you enjoy most of the styles that jazz can take, Rager offers several "flavors" to choose from, and you won't be disappointed.
"Every song we select has affected me in a musical and personal way. Ifeel blessed to be able to perform them!" Chad Rager
Chad Rager Trio-
The drumslinger Chad Rager has created lots of excitement when he stepped outside his national recording band the Chad Rager Groove and created the Chad Rager 3 .
The Chad Rager 3 is the classic trio concept performing innovative instrumental versions
of Jazz Standards, Classic Rock, Blues , R&B, and Originals featuring Chad's drumming,
Acoustic Piano and Acoustic Bass, all with that Chad Rager twist.
This is a refreshing, entertaining group that is at home providing music for your next corporate event or performing as a headliner in large or small concert venues.
Michael Hutchins Website - http://www.michaelhutchins.com
Chad Rager Website - http://www.chadragergroove.com
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2/13/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Mindy Hester
http://www.mindysmusic.com
Children's Music Performer
Rock is here to stay with Chicago children's performer Mindy Hester. With her unique brand of rock music for the little ones, Mindy's music features original parodies that the cool kids will be singing for years.
After graduating from Chicago's The Theatre School at DePaul University in 1992, Mindy moved out to L.A. and enjoyed a successful career in the entertainment industry with a variety of live theatre, television and film roles including The Drew Carey Show, Murphy Brown, Family Matters, Cupid and a role in the feature film Rudy. Her entire professional acting resume can be views online at www.imdb.com/mindyhester.
Returning home to Chicago in 1998, Mindy began teaching at the prestigious Old Town School of Folk Music as an instructor in the adult guitar and Wiggleworms children's music programs. As a single mom, Mindy soon discovered her passion for creating a unique brand of children's music that parents alike could enjoy. Joined by band members Scott Liebnow on drums and Errol Brown on bass, Mindy's energetic and hilarious live performances fuse traditional kid's music with originals and rock parodies to get kids of all ages on their feet and doing the tushy twist!
Mindy's recent area children's performances include:
*several appearances at The Kohl Children's Museum, Chicago
*WTTW Channel 11's Back To School Special
*The Chicago Symphony Orchestra's Family Day
*Starland Creativity Center, Deerfield IL
*Rockin Mom's Podcast- December 2006
*West Fest 2006
*Invited to perform in the Kids' Showcase at the International Folk Alliance Conference 2007 in Memphis, TN.
"My influences are as wide as my personal musical tastes. I dream to create music that blends real rock & roll and pop music with the salt and spirit of Jim Henson, the wild abandon of Iggy Pop, the playful spirit and integrity of "Jack's Big Music Show" on Noggin, and the pulse pounding excitment of a Super Monster Truck-Pull. My favorite children's musical acts include Peter Himmelman, The Dirty Sock Funtime Band, Ralph Covert, Milkshake, Justin Roberts, Laurie Berkner, Jeanie B!, TMBG."
One of Mindy's things is that She takes Rock songs and puts a kid twist on it. She takes a song like "Rockin In The Free World" by one Mr. Neil Young, then replaces His Lyrics with original lyrics She wrote. It is fun to see Mindy take a Devo, Flaming Lipps or even Bon Joni Song and mke it a fun song, kids can rock out to. It is great for The Parents as well, as many Parents know the original songs, so it is fun for them to listen to the new words. She does these Parody songs quite a bit. We all know "Weird Al" Yankovic and Cletus T. Judd (No Relation) and Their parody songs, but there is not alot of parody songs in The Children's Music Genre. Mindy of course writes original songs from scratch, both Lyrics and music, as well as traditional Children's Music.
This is the second female Children's performer I have interviewed. I am really starting to like this whole Children's Music genre. Not being a parent, I tended not to listen to alot of Children's Music, but it's a genre that really celebrates the art of music. Children's music performers are not just on stage, going through the motions, putting themselves to sleep, as well as everyone else. Mindy for example, sings original lyrics, as well as the Classics and interacts with the kids; the kids actively partipate in the show. The kids can feel they are part of the show, not just watching the show. One way kids show they are enjoying themselves and They are having a good time is jumping up and down and all around and just dancing to the music. Mindy respects Her Kid audience and really trys to get all these kids moving and grooving.
Mindy can be found performing all over the place. She plays quite often at Navy Pier and is one of Her big gigs. But Mindy can be found performing at many schools, as well as private parties. It would be quite a treat for a kid have Mindy perform at His or Her's Birthday Party.
Mindy tries to travel around the Midwest and perform Her songs and again get the kiddies on Their feet and get Them just wiggling around (We all remember and probably have done the wiggle dance sometime in Our lives, You know the dance). Mindy can have kids across the Midwest doing the wiggle dance.
For more info on Mindy Hester please visit Her website at http://www.mindysmusic.com
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1/31/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Grant Fitch
http://www.grantfitch.com
Storyteller
Grant's specialty is energetic and fast-paced storytelling, with vivid characterization and an engaging sense of humor. He's been storytelling in the Midwest & mostly northwest Indiana and the Chicago area for nearly a decade.
He likes to say that "we never outgrow our need for stories" - and that's why he offers tales for all ages: from piles of picture books for kids, to classic literature for adults.
Grant also works here and there in local theatres, starring in shows like Mary Poppins, Twelve Angry Men, My Fair Lady and Same Time, Next Year, as well as the occasional bit of directing or backstage work.
Please visit Grant's website at http://www.grantfitch.com
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1/30/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Phil Labek
Keep Green Space Green
Save Woodridge Open Space
Keep Green Space Green
What is it all about? Keep Green Space Green would like our Woodridge Village officials and the Dist. 99 school board to come together and settle their differences.
Negotiate not Litigate.
High School District 99 owns approximately 45 acres of open land at the corner of Woodridge Dr. and Center Dr. You know the place...it is the site that the Jubilee is held at and kids practice their sports.
The site was originally purchased by District 99 some 30 years ago to build a 3rd high school if and when it was needed. When the land was purchased there was an understanding that if the district was not going to build the 3rd school and decided to sell the land that they would sell it back to the Village of Woodridge.
The referendum to build the 3rd school never passed and now the district considering selling the land. Unfortunately the district, in it's efforts to determine market value and gather information about the revenue that the land sale could bring has many residents as well as the Village of
Woodridge concerned. The district hired an marketing firm which placed ads in the wall street journal seeking bids from developers to develop a "High Intensity Multi-Family" development on the site.
The district at a recent board meeting indicated that they have not decided to sell the property at this time and that they are only doing research. However, the methods used to do this research has left the residents very concerned. The Village of Woodridge felt that in order to protect the land and the wishes of the residents that they needed to begin an Eminent Domain/Condemnation law suit on the property.
Regardless of how this turns out, thousands of tax dollars are going to be lost determining the fate of this property. Keep Green Space Green is urging High School District #99 and the Village of Woodridge to sit down and work this out according to the original agreement. To see the original agreement Click Here.
Keep Green Space Green is fighting to keep our open space. Keep Green Space Green is fighting for our parks. Keep Green Space Green don't want higher traffic counts that could jeopardize our children's safety. Keep Green Space Green don't want our elementary schools and junior high school over crowded and over extended. Keep Green Space Green also don't want our tax dollars lost in needless litigation.
Keep Green Space Green would like to see Dist 99 and Woodridge officials go back to the negotiating table so that they can avoid long litigation.
Keep Green Space Green Website - http://www.keepgreenspacegreen.com
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1/23/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Mary Jo Parker O'Hearn
Artist
Mary Jo Parker O'Hearn's representational work presents Her view of the people and the world around Her and Her abstract work presents what She sees on the other side of Her eyes. Often Her family has given Her inspiration for the representational pieces. For these pieces She enjoys working from photographs, usually mixing recent events with events from long ago, combining them to create an interaction to which the viewer can relate or question. These pieces are usually acrylic and charcoal on canvas, sometimes incorporating collage. Her installation and sculpture pieces have all related to Her family.
Her abstract work is evolving as She explore the process. Sheis trying to reach out from the surface to involve the viewer and include them in Her vision. These pieces often incorporate collage and assemblage of found objects. Recently She has discovered the encaustic medium. The endless possibilities available with this medium are very exciting and She hopes to reach even farther out to the viewer as She becomes more skilled in its use.
Ms. O'Hearn's luminous works draw the view into places of beauty, intimacy, and mystery.
Some of Mary Jo's artwork can be viewed at http://opal-art.com
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1/22/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Bob Morris
Darien-Woodridge
Fire Protection Direct
Fire Prevention Bureau Director
The Darien- Woodridge Fire Protection District serves portions of Darien, Woodridge and unincorporated DuPage County. Approximate District borders: North - Maple Avenue, South - I 55, East - Cass Avenue, West - I 355
Personnel consists of 29 sworn, 25 part-time, 5 administrative, 5 elected trustees and 3 appointed commissioners. Three facilities manned 24 hours per day. Staffing is 13 personnel per shift maximum to a minimum of 11 personnel.
Approximately 2,800 annual emergency calls, 61% Emergency Medical Incidents, 39% Fire / Service Incidents. In-district average emergency incident response time is 4.49 minutes
Maintains 19 vehicless, 1 ladder truck with ALS equipment, 3 engines, 2 of which with ALS equipment for EMS calls, 1 rescue squad, 1 brush truck, 1 fire investigation unit, 1 Battalion Chief vehicle, 3 ALS ambulances, and 8 other support vehicles. One of the first in the region to provide advanced life support since 1979.
Insurance Service Office class 3 public grading
Received Residential Fire Institution Life Safety Achievement Awards for 6 years in recognition of no fire deaths and the Illinois Inspectors Awards every year for the past 10 years for fire prevention activity competition.
Nominated "Fire District of the Year" for two years by the Northern Illinois Alliance of Fire Protection Districts for its progressive and innovative approach to today's fire service.
The goal of Darien-Woodridge Fire Prevention is to prevent fires and accidents from happening, or if they should occur, to allow for the occupants to safely escape. There are approximately 1,000 inspectable occupancies within our district. This ranges from multi-family buildings to shopping centers to industrial and office buildings.
There are some key areas within fire prevention. The first is code enforcement. Fire inspectors make routine annual inspections of all public buildings to see that they are safe for the general public and the employees. The Fire Prevention Bureau also review the plans of any new public building, or building undergoing renovation, to make certain it will be constructed according to the fire codes. The codes currently used within the District are the 1999 editions of the BOCA Building and Fire Codes, and the 1997 Edition of the NFPA Life Safety Code.
Second is public education. This is where the public is taught various fire and life safety topics. Their public education officer makes presentations in all of Their schools, covering topics from calling 9-1-1 to cooking safety to first aid and CPR. Presentations are done on a request basis to other adult and children's groups in the community. In the summer months an on-duty fire engine and ambulance are sent to local block parties where the residents can get an up close look at our equipment, and have an opportunity to ask any questions about Their organization.
Finally, They have pre-fire planning. This entails using a computer to draw floor plans of the major buildings They respond to, so they can be distributed binders carried on all of Their vehicles. This is done so firefighters can "see" the inside of the building before they arrive. This allows firefighters to anticipate what actions they might have to take in an actual fire. This is an ongoing project as buildings are always being remodeled, and new buildings are being constructed.
If you have any questions about the Fire Prevention Bureau, or would like to schedule a public education event for your group, contact Their office at 630-910-2207.
Please Check Out The Darien-Woodridge Fire Protection District's website at http://www.dwfd.org
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1/17/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
"Miss Cathy" Glickman
http://www.misscathymusic.com
Cathy Glickman obtained her Bachelors of Science degree from Illinois State University in Medical Technology in 1985. She worked as a microbiology specialist for thirteen years in local Chicago area hospitals before she decided to follow her heart. She has now become a passionate advocate of children's music. She has been a successful Kindermusik instructor in Chicago's Northwest Suburbs for ten years. Miss Cathy is loved and adored by her students for her energetic style and passion for singing and celebrating the individual child. She has been a member and soloist of the Music Institute of Chicago's Chorale for over thirteen years and has recently explored singing lead vocals in a local Lake Forest band, "TAILFIN". In 1999, Cathy auditioned and was chosen to sing Handel's Messiah at Carnegie Hall , in New York City under the direction of conductor John Rutter.
Miss Cathy looks forward to being able to share her CD, Mornings with Miss Cathy, with the young and the young at heart. Miss Cathy enjoys spending time with her husband of ninteen years, Marty, her two musical children, Carly and Joel, and her beloved Westie puppy, Gershwin.
Miss Cathy's website can be found at http://www.misscathymusic.com
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1/15/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Tom & Tami Trisoliere
TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program
TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program Showcases talent from local festivals, variety talent and entertainment, demonstrations, informative topics, local and national musicians, music videos, hobbies, crafts, and more! Something for the whole family to enjoy.
Tom and Tami are good friends of mine and They produce I show similiar to mine. A Show celebrating all the good things happening in Our Beloved Community. Their show is an inspiration to Myself and other Public Access Televsion Producers. As with My My Television Show - "Mike Kara Presents...", Tom and Tami produces a serious show. A show celebrating the good in people and the good in The Community. Much of what Public Access is, is not what TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program is all about. All too often We get a wrong idea of what Public Access is. We do not tend to think of Public Access Television in terms of a professinally produced program, such as TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program. Many people when they here Public Access, They think of Wayne's World, something produced in someone's Parent's basement. But, Tom and Tami produce a quality product, using professional video and sound equipment. A show like Theirs is of such high quality, it could be on TLN (Total Living Network) and probably should be.
Speaking of TLN. Tom and Tami brings out the Christian element to Their Show. They as well as Myself are practicing Christians and followers of Jesus Christ. It is so refreshing to find TV Producers who did afraid to use the J word and incorpate Their faith into Their program. The blend of Christian is wonderful, the perfect amount. They often have Christian Music Videos and they feature a place for all of us Christian Music fans to get Our daily dose of Christian Music Videos. There is not alot of places to see these videos , so I personally thank Tom and Tami on behalf of all Christian Music fans for providing these videos.
Tom and Tami, who are Husband and Wife work on the show together. Tami serves as Hostess and Tom as camera man and producers.
TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program features such a wide variety of subjects. Car Shows are a big feature on TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program. Tami also had had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. Richard Daley, Mayor of Chicago, several times. Mayor Daley has His Kite Festival and Holiday Sports Festival and Tom and Tami have had the pleasure of featuring those events on Their Show.
Special Thanks To Tom and Tami for putting Me in touch with Donny Richmond, who I had the pleasure and honor of featuring for - The Mike Kara Radio Program - "The Celebrity Eye". Tom and Tami have interviewed so many great people, including Christian performers. Tom and Tami had featured Donny Richmond, the current Country Gospel Music Association ARTIST OF THE DECADE and the International Country Gospel Music Association ENTERTAINER OF THE DECADE, on TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program.
TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program is produced by The Non-For-Profit Organization - Worldwin Media. Worldwin Media's main production is TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program. Worldwin Media also produces another special productions as well. Worldwin Media uses TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program as a vehicle to showcase Worldwin Media Productions.
So if You have the chance to catch TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program, please do. Since TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program can be seen all around the entire Chicagoland, not to mention, literally, The entire globe, I will not list all the showtimes for The Program. I would be writing until next Tuesday if that's the case. So the best way to see how to watch the show, is to visit The TnT's Arts & Entertainment Television Program website. At this website You will be able to check out showtimes, as well as show descriptions. So You know what show is airing when, so forth and so forth. They, like Me, has every show description for every single show they have produced. They have produced something like, 130 some shows, My Goodness!!.
So here are the websites to check for showtimes, as well as more info about -
http://www.tntprogram.com
http://www.worldwinmedia.com
http://www.worldwinmedia.org
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1/13/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Matthew Blacconiere
Artist
Who is Matthew K. Blacconiere? He is a young man who has a lot of talent and has lived in the Chicagoland area his whole life. When he was young he was watching television and saw a mural that was done in spray paint. Immediately, he picked up a notebook and started drawing. Unbeknownst to him, that moment would manifest into many great achievements.
During his educational years, he would meet other artists that enjoyed listening to music and spending time drawing with him. When he attended West Leyden High School his electives were Art classes and he stayed very active by joining the cross country and gymnastics teams. His mother noticed he had "extraordinary talent" when she saw his artwork that won an award displayed at the Northlake Public Library. From there she suggested that he go to college for a degree in art. Together they found a wonderful art school located in Chicago's Loop called the American Academy of Art. At the Academy he learned sculpting, oil painting, life drawing and many other skills that would be useful in his life.
Matthew has showed is work at the Academy and also in many galleries and conferences. He continues to show his work at many locations. Matthew's present goal is to make a living through his commissioned art. His future plans include traveling and living a victorious life. He hopes to also have his pieces put on permanent display in museums all over the world.
To check out Matthew's work and so much more info about Him, please check out His awesome website at http://www.mattblacconiere.com
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1/07/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Steve Justman
Vintage Folk & Classic Country
Steve Justman has been performing Americana music in the Chicago area for many years. Whether it be folk, country, country rock, or bluegrass, you will hear a taste of all of it in Steve's music.
Known to many musicians in the area for his guitar, banjo, bass, and vocal abilities, Steve was a founding member of the Pony Express Band, a popular country-rock band on Chicago's north side and northwest suburbs.
Steve has performed and entertained in many of the best folk and acoustic venues in the Chicago area such as Charlie's Coffee House, Bill's Blues, Uncommon Ground, The Stage Left Cafe, and the Heartland Cafe, as well as concerts in many public libraries and special events for appreciating people of all ages.
Steve has performed and appeared live on WGN radio on Rick Kogan's Sunday Papers show.
Some say he has found a perfect blend of Americana: Vintage Folk & Classic Country, and he is always known to work hard to entertain his audience.
Steve is a great guy and was kind enough to actually perform three songs live, right then and there in the library for this interview.
For more information about Steve, please visit his very special website at http://www.stevejustman.com or at http://www.myspace.com/stevejustman
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1/03/08 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Court Jester
Interview Featuring Band Members -
James Azrael - Guitar/Songwriter
Gibby - Bass
Court Jester is a National Touring Act, as well as National Recording Artists based in The Chicagoland Area. This hard rock band tours all over The United States of America, but doing alot of shows in Chicago, Illinois. For over a decade Court Jester has been providing us all with some Kick-Butt Hard Rock N Roll. Though several band member changes, Court Jester remain strong and still with the mission as when they started; to rock down the house. Court Jester is just as much of a live band as a recording band. James Azrael told Me that they most likely will always tour and always perform live. With that said, I encourage everyone to check out a Court Jester Show. This is Hard Rock at it's finest.
Check Out these great Court Jester related websites -
http://www.courtjestermusic.com
http://www.myspace.com/courtjester
http://www.jamesazrael.com
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12/11/07 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Charles Brooks
Toastmaster International
District 30
Chicagoland Toastmasters
Past District Governor 2003-2004
The state of Illinois was the place where the Toastmaster concept originated. Not only was it the
home of our founder, Ralph Smedley, it was also the home of the very first Toastmaster Clubs.
As Educational Director of the Bloomington YMCA, Ralph Smedley recognized that the young men in his community needed to learn how to talk, to conduct meetings, to plan programs, and how to work on committees. To meet this need he devised the idea of a social club, meeting weekly, with programs devoted to practice short speeches, debates, and some work in chairmanship. Thus was born the very first Toastmaster Club in Bloomington, Illinois, on March 24, 1905.
In 1906, Dr. Smedley was transferred to the Freeport YMCA. At the time, the idea of adult education was beginning to gain recognition, and it was just one year later in 1907 that he organized the first Toastmaster Club for adult men in the city of Freeport. Shortly thereafter he was transferred to Rock Island and a third club was organized there.
Unfortunately, however, his successors did not share his enthusiasm for the Toastmaster program and all three clubs died shortly after their founder had moved on. The idea, however, did not die but was put on the back burner for a short while. In 1922, Dr. Smedley was again transferred, this time to Santa Ana, California; and it was here in 1924 that what is now known as "Founder's Club" was organized the "official" beginning of this great organization.
Some 12 years after the founding of Toastmasters, the first Toastmasters Club in the state of Illinois received its charter in March 1936. That was the Lincoln-Douglas Club #51 in Springfield. At that time, the area comprising all of Illinois and the eastern half of the state of Missouri was known as District 8. Nearly two years later the first club located in what is now known as "Chicagoland District 30" received its charter as Central Club #96.
Central #96 enjoyed a long life for over 40 years before finally succumbing to membership problems. The second oldest club chartered in Chicagoland was Club #169. Chartered in June of 1940, the Wilson Ave. Club was the home club for many men whose names are well known as leaders among Toastmasters. Over the years its name and meeting location have changed a couple of times, but the same Club #169 is still going strong and is currently known as Kemper-Countryside Club #169, meeting in Long Grove.
For quite a few years, District 8 chose its officers alternately from the Chicago and St. Louis metropolitan areas. Then, in 1949, Russell V. Puzey of the Wilson Ave. Club was elected Governor of District 8. Russ was a man of great vision and plans. It was he who dared to initiate the expansion of the District hierarchy to include two Lieutenant Governors' which was hitherto unknown in Toastmasters International. Emmit Holmes of Chicago was one of the first Lt. Governors; Bill Buekema of St. Louis was the other.
Russ and Emmit worked on a plan for establishing a new District in Illinois, bounded on the south by an east-west line across the state just below Danville in Vermilion County and extending westward just north of Decatur, Springfield, and Quincy, but including Champaign and Urbana. In 1950 their efforts were rewarded and District 30 was born - not the District 30 that we know today, but one which covered the entire northern half of the state of Illinois. Emmit Holmes was elected as our first District Governor.
Both Russ Puzey and Emmit Holmes went on to serve on the International Board of Directors in later years. And Russ was elected International President at the Denver Convention in 1953.
The first District 30 Spring Conference was held just prior to our first birthday. At that time there were just 25 clubs in the district and two more were about to receive their charters. Both Russ and Emmit were true believers in Dr. Smedley's "movement", and it was no doubt the influence of their evangelistic philosophy that District 30 grew from 25 clubs in 1951 to 75 in 1956.
Almost two thirds of those 75 clubs were located in the four counties of Cook, Lake, McHenry, and DuPage. Members from Danville, Peoria, and Galesburg had long distances to travel in order to attend District 30 meetings; which almost always were held in Cook County. But, they came!
Conscious of the hardship, District Governor John Franczak and Lt. Governor Bob Foley decided in 1956 to do something to alleviate the problem. Lt. Governor Foley began a series of visits, over a period of seven months, to the outlying clubs of District 30; those clubs outside of the four county metropolitan area. Twenty-seven clubs were persuaded to petition for formation of a new district. And, at the 1956 International Convention in Detroit, the Board of Directors voted favorably and District 54 was formed.
District 30 retained the four county area of Cook, Lake, McHenry, and DuPage while the balance of what used to be District 30 (the northern half of Illinois) was transferred to the new District 54. Bob Foley was elected as the first District Governor of District 54 (and later became District Governor of D-30 in 1960-61). The first District Governor of the new Chicagoland District was George Van Zevern.
Toastmasters District 30 - Chicagoland Toastmasters Website - http://www.toastofchicago.org
Toastmasters International Website - http://www.toastmasters.org/
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12/10/07 - Edition of The Mike Kara Radio Show
Eye on The Community
Art Davis
Rotary International
District 6450
District Governor
Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations, and helps build goodwill and peace in the world. Approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 32,581 clubs in 532 Rotary Districts in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. There are 7,269 Rotaract Clubs, and 167,187 Rotaract Members. There are 10,955 Interact Clubs and 251,965 Interact members. There are 6,437 Rotary Community Corps, and 148,051 RCC members.
Rotary club membership represents a cross-section of the community`s business and professional men and women. The world`s Rotary clubs meet weekly and are nonpolitical, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races, and creeds.
The main objective of Rotary is service in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world. Rotarians develop community service projects that address many of today`s most critical issues, such as children at risk, poverty and hunger, the environment, illiteracy, and violence. They also support programs for youth, educational opportunities and international exchanges for students, teachers, and other professionals, and vocational and career development. The Rotary motto is Service Above Self.
Although Rotary clubs develop autonomous service programs, all Rotarians worldwide are united in a campaign for the global eradication of polio. In the 1980s, Rotarians raised US$240 million to immunize the children of the world; by 2005, Rotary`s centenary year and the target date for the certification of a polio-free world, the PolioPlus program will have contributed US$500 million to this cause. In addition, Rotary has provided an army of volunteers to promote and assist at national immunization days in polio-endemic countries around the world.
The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International is a not-for-profit corporation that promotes world understanding through international humanitarian service programs and educational and cultural exchanges. It is supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and others who share its vision of a better world. Since 1947, the Foundation has awarded more than US$1.1 billion in humanitarian and educational grants, which are initiated and administered by local Rotary clubs and districts.
Rotary District 6450 is one of 530 Rotary districts. Rotary District 6450 clubs include - Bensenville, Chicago O`Hare, Franklin Park, Norridge-Harwood Heights, Addison, Elmhurst Morning, Elmhurst Noon, Oak Brook, Broadview, Maywood, Melrose Park, Oak Park-River Forest, Chicago, Chicago Lakeview, Chicago Northwest, Chicaago Far North, Chicago Financial District, Chicago Near South, Chicago Southeast, Aurora, Aurora-Naperville, Aurora Sunrise, OswegoBolingbrook, Darien, Downers Grove, Westmont, Woodridge, Brookfield-Riverside, Countryside, Hinsdale-Oakbrook Blue Island-Crestwood, Evergreen Park, Moraine Valley, Oak Lawn, Joliet, Lockport, Plainfield, Romeoville, New Lenox, Oak Forest, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Frankfort, Chicago Heights, Homewood, Lansing, Matteson, Park Forest, Bradley-Bourbonnais, Kankakee, Manteno, Wilmington, Channahon-Minooka, Dwight, Morris, Shorewood, Berwyn, Cicero, La Grange, Western Springs, Lisle, Naperville, Naperville Sunrise, Naperville Evening.
Rotary International District 6450 Website - http://www.rotary6450.org<