Bourbonnais, Illinois, is a charming town with a vibrant community spirit that warmly welcomes newcomers and visitors alike. Its dynamic mix of tradition and modernity makes it a fantastic place to call home. Situated in the heart of Kankakee County, Bourbonnais beautifully balances the quaintness of small-town life with the conveniences of urban living.
The town is rich in greenery and outdoor activities, with Perry Farm Park taking center stage. This
delightful park offers scenic trails for walking, jogging, and cycling, and its open spaces are perfect for family picnics and community gatherings. Residents take immense pride in their local events, and the annual Friendship Festival is a testament to the town's lively social calendar, featuring parades, live music, and an array of activities that foster a sense of unity.
For education and knowledge seekers, the presence of Olivet Nazarene University adds an enriching
Bourbonnais, Illinois
4 | HelloBourbonnais, Illinois • Fall Issue
Hello Bourbonnais, Illinois • Fall Issue |5
academic dimension to the town, drawing youthful energy and cultural diversity. The university hosts a variety of events open to the public, integrating its students with the broader community. The warmth of the people here is matched only by the warm summer days, making Bourbonnais a place where neighbors become friends and every day feels just a bit brighter.
Bourbonnais, Illinois
Bourbonnais, Illinois: Where Community Spirit Thrives
Bourbonnais, Illinois, is a charming town with a vibrant community spirit that warmly welcomes newcomers and visitors alike. Its dynamic mix of tradition and modernity makes it a fantastic place to call home. Situated in the heart of Kankakee County, Bourbonnais beautifully balances the quaintness of small-town life with the conveniences of urban living.
The town is rich in greenery and outdoor activities, with Perry Farm Park taking center stage. This delightful park offers scenic trails for walking, jogging, and cycling, and its open spaces are perfect for family picnics and community gatherings. Residents take immense pride in their local events, and the annual Friendship Festival is a testament to the town's lively social calendar, featuring parades, live music, and an array of activities that foster a sense of unity.
For education and knowledge seekers, the presence of Olivet Nazarene University adds an enriching academic dimension to the town, drawing youthful energy and cultural diversity. The university hosts a variety of events open to the public, integrating its students with the broader community. The warmth of the people here is matched only by the warm summer days, making Bourbonnais a place where neighbors become friends and every day feels just a bit brighter.
Why Every Foundation Needs a Radon Test
Radon gas is one of the most underestimated health hazards in residential settings. Naturally produced from the breakdown of uranium in soil, it seeps into homes through cracks in the foundation, construction joints, and even through gaps around pipes. While radon is commonly associated with basements,
that’s a dangerous misconception. Homes with slab foundations or crawlspaces are not immune to radon exposure.Colorless, odorless, and tasteless, radon poses no immediate symptoms, which makes it easy to ignore. But long-term exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. In fact, it’s
6 | HelloBourbonnais, Illinois • Fall Issue
Why Every Foundation Needs a Radon Test
Radon gas is one of the most underestimated health hazards in residential settings. Naturally produced from the breakdown of uranium in soil, it seeps into homes through cracks in the foundation, construction joints, and even through gaps around pipes. While radon is commonly associated with basements, that’s a dangerous misconception. Homes with slab foundations or crawlspaces are not immune to radon exposure.
Colorless, odorless, and tasteless, radon poses no immediate symptoms, which makes it easy to ignore. But long-term exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. In fact, it’s the second leading cause after smoking. The only way to detect radon is through testing—something that’s simple, inexpensive, and widely available.
A radon test is one of the most cost-effective and overlooked ways to ensure long-term health in the home environment. Whether buying, selling, or maintaining a home, screening should be part of routine safety measures.
Short-term test kits are available over the counter, but professional testing provides more immediate and reliable results. If high radon levels are detected, mitigation systems can be installed to vent the gas safely out of the home. These systems are non-intrusive and highly effective.
Many regions require radon disclosure during home sales, but testing isn’t always mandatory. As a result, some buyers skip it. Even if the home is located in an area not typically associated with high radon levels, individual soil conditions and building characteristics can still allow for dangerous concentrations.
Crawlspaces in particular can collect radon if they’re unventilated or poorly sealed. The gas can then move up into living spaces. That’s why it’s important not to assume a slab or crawlspace eliminates risk.
Taking this simple preventive measure offers peace of mind and long-term health protection. When it comes to indoor air quality, what can’t be seen often matters most.
Luke Anglea
screening should be part of routine safety measures.Short-term test kits are available over the counter, but professional testing provides more immediate and reliable results. If high radon levels are detected, mitigation systems can be installed to vent the gas safely out of the home. These systems are non-intrusive and highly effective.Many regions require radon disclosure during home sales, but testing isn’t always mandatory. As a result, some buyers skip it. Even if the home is located in an area not typically associated with high radon levels, individual soil conditions and building characteristics can still allow for...
the second leading cause after smoking. The only way to detect radon is through testing—something that’s simple, inexpensive, and widely available.A radon test is one of the most cost-effective and overlooked ways to ensure long-term health in the home environment. Whether buying, selling, or maintaining a home,
A radon test is one of the most cost-effective and overlooked ways to ensure long-term health in the home environment.
About the Author
Luke Anglea is SLS Home Inspections’ owner and lead inspector. Luke brings his naturally analytical mindset to home inspections along with great attention to detail. When he is not inspecting houses he enjoys hiking, reading and traveling with his family. Luke lives in Bourbonnais, IL with his wife Jessica and their four sons.
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Bourbonnais, Illinois
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A Beacon of Economic Growth
In the heart of Kankakee County, Bourbonnais, Illinois, is charting a dynamic path in economic development. This charming village,
known for its blend of historic character and modern ventures, has emerged as a hotspot for economic growth and innovation, making waves across the region. Thanks to its strategic initiatives, businesses thrive and community spirit blossoms.
Bourbonnais is buzzing with opportunities, driven by a robust focus on infrastructure improvements and strategic partnerships. The local government and civic leaders have collaboratively fostered a business-friendly environment, attracting both startups and established enterprises. This commitment has resulted in a diverse marketplace, where new ideas can flourish alongside traditional businesses. The rich educational environment nurtured by Olivet Nazarene University adds an intellectual edge, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to meet modern challenges.
The revitalized downtown area embodies the spirit of renewal, with thriving local shops and eateries providing vibrant spots for community engagement while supporting local entrepreneurs. Investment in technology and sustainable practices emphasizes Bourbonnais's forward-thinking philosophy, ensuring that the village remains a beacon for future generations.
In Bourbonnais, economic development is not just about numbers; it's about creating a sustainable and inclusive future. The excitement in this village is palpable, making...
Bourbonnais, Illinois
Bourbonnais, Illinois: A Beacon of Economic Growth
In the heart of Kankakee County, Bourbonnais, Illinois, is charting a dynamic path in economic development. This charming village, known for its blend of historic character and modern ventures, has emerged as a hotspot for economic growth and innovation, making waves across the region. Thanks to its strategic initiatives, businesses thrive and community spirit blossoms.
Bourbonnais is buzzing with opportunities, driven by a robust focus on infrastructure improvements and strategic partnerships. The local government and civic leaders have collaboratively fostered a business-friendly environment, attracting both startups and established enterprises. This commitment has resulted in a diverse marketplace, where new ideas can flourish alongside traditional businesses. The rich educational environment nurtured by Olivet Nazarene University adds an intellectual edge, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to meet modern challenges.
The revitalized downtown area embodies the spirit of renewal, with thriving local shops and eateries providing vibrant spots for community engagement while supporting local entrepreneurs. Investment in technology and sustainable practices emphasizes Bourbonnais's forward-thinking philosophy, ensuring that the village remains a beacon for future generations.
In Bourbonnais, economic development is not just about numbers; it's about creating a sustainable and inclusive future. The excitement in this village is palpable, making it a shining example of how proactive planning and community involvement can lead to a prosperous and promising tomorrow.