KANKAKEE – Small Business Saturday is this Saturday, Nov. 27, and State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is encouraging residents to patronize local businesses this holiday season.

“Our small businesses are the backbone of our local economy and deserve our support in these trying times,” Joyce said. “I encourage you to go out and support the small businesses in our area that are trying very hard to keep their doors open and our community vibrant for everyone.”

Joyce reminds residents that Small Business Saturday is a day to celebrate and support the small, family-run shops that do so much throughout the year for the community. Joyce added that supporting small does not just mean shopping at brick-and-mortar stores. Residents can show their support through online sales, ordering carryout from a locally owned restaurant or buying gift cards.

“Small Business Saturday is more vital than ever this year,” Joyce said. “Business owners are hoping to see you in line or online this Saturday, Nov. 27.” 

Additionally, if money is tight due to the financial concerns relating to the pandemic, people can follow their social media, recommend them to friends and leave positive reviews.

NEW LENOX – State Senators Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) and Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Leigh Park in New Lenox Thursday. 

“Leigh Park is a collaboration of grants, park district money and fundraising efforts over the past few years,” Joyce said. “This park will enable Will County residents to better enjoy time outside, providing a gathering place for people to come and talk, walk and let their kids play.” 

This park benefited from a grant through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development program, resulting in a state-of-the-art playground designed for maximum accessibility, in partnership with LWSRA park district partners from Frankfort, Frankfort Square, Manhattan, Mokena, New Lenox, Peotone, and Wilmington Island Park Districts and other local partners. 

State Senator Patrick Joyce joins the leadership of the Kankakee Valley Theatre Association for a small business tour on Monday, July 12. From left to right: Secretary Kayla James, Business Manager Paula Sutter, President Courtney Stephens, State Senator Patrick Joyce and former KTVA Vice President Rhonda Stenzinger.

KANKAKEE – As part of a district-wide tour of local businesses, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) visited the Kankakee Valley Theatre Association (KVTA) on Monday to tour the theater.

“The Kankakee Valley Theatre Association has a great impact on our community, and they are finally able to welcome people back,” Joyce said. “Without their performances, our community would have few opportunities to see these productions in our area. They have a fantastic list of shows coming up, and it’s a great excuse to get out and show our support.” 

During the tour, Joyce met with KTVA President Courtney Stephens, Business Manager Paula Sutter, Secretary Kayla James and former Vice President Rhonda Stenzinger. Stephens said they are excited to be able to return to the stage and entertain the community again after the theater sat empty for so many months, and they ask the community to consider supporting their work by attending one of their upcoming productions.

The following is a list of current and upcoming productions at the theater:

Youth Summer Theatre Camp - July 2021
10-Minute Play Festival - August 2021
The Music Man - October 2021
The Beast of Gevaudan - October 2021
Beauty and the Beast JR. - November 2021
Peter and the Starcatcher - February 2022
Mary Poppins JR. - April 2022
Guys and Dolls - May 2022

KANKAKEE -- State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) joins Dr. Michael Anderson, an Infectious Disease Physician serving the Kankakee region, to discuss the health care industry’s pandemic challenges, flu season, Thanksgiving guidance and ways communities can reduce the spread of COVID-19.