Glen Ellyn native Jason Bitner is the co-creator of Found Magazine, which uncovers the hidden aspects of everyday life. Abandoned love notes, homework assignments, doodles and to-do lists make up the pages of 6 zines and a handful of books.

One of those books is filled with anonymous faces. Chicago Public Radio’s Steve Edwards spoke with Bitner in 2006 when the book LaPorte, Indiana came out. It features nearly 200 portraits spanning two decades – all from the small town of LaPorte, current population about 21,000.

It all started when Bitner and some friends were in town one weekend to catch LaPorte’s demolition derby. The gang stopped for a bite to eat at B&J’s American Café, and over his cinnamon roll and coffee, Bitner spotted some interesting-looking vintage portraits on the wall behind the counter.

Originally aired April 4, 2006