Mike Murphy, President and CEO of the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce and former owner of Charlie Parker's diner, recently spoke at the Citizens Club of Springfield forum. He provided an update on the business community and shared how state and local politicians are addressing business people's needs.Update: In a previous version of this forum Springfield's "second lake project" was discussed. The deadline to submit public comments ended on Sept. 25, 2023.

Word Up of Central Illinois is an organization that provides tools and board books to low-income families in the community to encourage language and brain development. Founder and Director of Word Up, Linda Johnson, spoke to Community Voices about why the organization started, speech development in children between the ages of 0-3 and the importance of board books. She also discusses how people can donate books.

Yaniv Dinur, conductor, talks with Community Voices about the Nov. 4-5 Illinois Symphony Orchestra concerts in central Illinois. He is one of the candidates auditioning this season for the full-season position. The Israeli native migrated to Michigan for university and has continued to grow through Milwaukee and New Bedford activities.

“A Man of No Importance” will make its regional premiere on Nov. 3-5 and 10-12. The show takes place in 1960s Ireland and follows the story of Alfie, who struggles to come to terms with who he is. Director Laurie Barnes and Assistant Director Betsy O’Brien spoke to Community Voices about the show, its Irish music, and the feeling of community in the performing arts.For ticket information: https://www.hcfta.org/tickets

“ENOUGH: Plays to End Gun Violence” is a nationwide effort to bring awareness to the issue of gun violence through theater. The event takes places on Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. in the UIS Studio Theatre. Springfield Moms Demand Action founder Tara McClellan McAndrew and UIS Students Demand Action founder Jessica Green spoke to Community Voices about the issue of gun violence and what to expect at the Nov. 6 event.For ticket information: https://uispac.com/enough-plays-to-end-gun-violence/

Jim Yale and Keith Bradbury are actors in the upcoming production of “From the Writer’s Desk, (and the Director’s Chair).” They spoke to Community Voices about the play and how its gives insight into the creative process of the late playwright Ken Bradbury and his relationship to the actors in his shows. The performance takes place on Nov. 11 at the Broadgauge in Petersburg, Ill. For more information visit: https://www.broadgauge.com/events

John Stremsterfer, President & CEO of the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln shares the continued execution and growth of the Next 10 project along with events Nov. 6-7.

Dr. Luke Fairless and Sgt. Joe Valentin co-host the video podcast, The 4th Shift: Mind, Body, Badge. It addresses the emotional wellness needed for corrections staff at Illinois prisons.

Lee Malany is a person to know in Springfield, Ill. In his early years, he studied physics, engineering, and law. This led him to his many years working in government. He is also a world traveler as he has visited several countries to help displaced people by building temporary abodes. He spoke to Community Voices about his life and his philosophies that have helped guide him to where he is today.

The zoo is always a staple for fond childhood memories, and the Henson Robinson Zoo is keeping that tradition alive with their upcoming trick-or-treat event for all ages, Zoolie Ghoulie. Kirst Montgomery, the zoo's education coordinator, sat down with co-host Logan Bricker to talk not only about the fun to be had but also the opportunities for learning about the animals themselves, conservation efforts, and new ways to respect the nature we inhabit.