THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE RELEASE
ABOVE: Lara Conklin is joined by longtime Vermilion County radio news reporter Bill Pickett.
DANVILLE, Ill. — Danville Area Community College is proud to announce the launch of Vermilion County History with Lara Conklin, a new podcast series created in celebration of the 200th Anniversary of Vermilion County.
Produced by Danville Area Community College, the podcast offers listeners an engaging and accessible way to explore the rich history, remarkable people, and unique stories that have shaped Vermilion County over the past two centuries. Through conversations with historians, community leaders, and local experts, the series brings history to life in a format that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.
Sue Richter, co-chair of the Vermilion County 200th Anniversary Committee, said the podcast was started to help residents connect with local history in a more personal and convenient way.
VC History host Lara Conklin—a member of the Vermilion County 200th Anniversary Celebration Committee and DACC retiree added that she was inspired to create this podcast through committee conversations about how to tell the stories that often go untold. Conklin encourages people to listen and, “explore the fascinating people, forgotten places, and hidden history that have shaped Vermilion County, Illinois.”
Richter adds, “this is a new and interesting way to get audiences interested in Vermilion County history through knowledgeable presenters who share stories and insights that might otherwise be overlooked”. Many people don’t have the time to sit down and read books or research historical facts. This podcast allows them to learn about our county’s history in a mobile format that they can enjoy whenever their schedule allows.”
As co-chair of the bicentennial committee, Richer is helping plan events commemorating the county’s 200th anniversary while coordinating with communities throughout Vermilion County to promote local celebrations.
The podcast also serves as a resource for residents interested in participating in bicentennial activities across the county.
“I want people to take advantage of all that is happening throughout the year in our towns and villages,” Richter said. “We have a remarkable past, present, and future that everyone can share. This bicentennial is an opportunity to celebrate our heritage while also looking ahead and planning for our future.”
Seven episodes are currently available and new episodes of Vermilion County History with Lara Conklin will be released throughout the bicentennial year and will highlight historical events, community traditions, local landmarks, and the people who have contributed to the county’s legacy.
The podcast is available on all major podcast platforms, including these:
https://open.spotify.com/show/3eSVbqwFyurtmLvlbxgpau
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592672
The video format can be found on the DACC YouTube page.
For more information about the Vermilion County Bicentennial celebration and upcoming events, visit the Vermilion County 200th Anniversary social media pages.
