Smile and say “CHEESE!” Today we connect with Michael Ventura of Mars Cheese Castle. Michael, who runs this iconic Kenosha business with his family, is the grandson of the late Mario Ventura Sr, who along with his wife Martha, started up a little cheese shop over 75 years ago!

In this episode we get into all the details about the history of Mars Cheese Castle – going back to their Uptown Kenosha roots back in 1946! Along with how Michael grew up in “the Castle” and how he eventually got involved in the family business.

If you are unfamiliar with Mars Cheese Castle, you really need to get out of the house more often. They are located under their iconic sign near the intersection of I-94 and Highway 142, check out their website here!

This episode was recorded on March 10, 2025 at the Better Call Parise Recording Studio in Downtown Kenosha – call on the Law Offices of Frank J. Parise when your bad day gets even worse!

The Ktown Connects hotline is open! Visit us at ktownconnects.com, click on the phone and leave us a message telling us about the last great meal you had in Kenosha!

Theme song performed by Dropping Daisies, written by James “Red” McLeod.

Your hosts are Donny Stancato and Jason Hedman

Get your Ktown Connects merchandise at The Lettering Machine, 725 50th St.

Drop us an email at ktownconnects@yahoo.com

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Franks Diner, 508 58th St

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About Time Moving Systems

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Dickow Czak Tile Carpet One, 6403 75th St

Carbox, 1750 22nd Ave

Public Brewing Company 628 58th St

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A+ Mobility, 2324 18th St

The Port of Kenosha Beverage House, 705 50th St

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Lucci’s Grandview 6929 39th Ave

Lakeshore Pedal Tours, 5001 Simmons Island Dr

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Sallese & Co, 709 56th St