UIS computer science professor and director of the new Orion Lab Joshua Smith sat down with Community Voices to explain its creation, its current status, and how it is designed to allow accessibility to those who may not have access to the tools to help make their dreams a reality.

Tim Flinn is the owner of "The Haberdash" men's clothing store and "bro-tique," as he likes to put it. He seeks to create a relaxing environment for men to come in and find help curating their new, dashing look. From clothes, tailors and accessories to hair care, beard styling products and the rare whiskey tasting, the Haberdash has it all to make you the best man you can be.

The Springfield Theatre Centre will present "The Color Purple" on May 12-14 and 19-21. Director Nicole Pittman and cast member Brianna Gude-Price spoke to Community Voices about the show and its significance in Black communities. Gude-Price also shared what it is like to portray the character Shug Avery.

Jeff Jarrett has done it all in the world of professional wrestling for almost four decades. He is a WWE Hall of Famer, a world champion and third generation event promoter. He still competes for All Elite Wrestling, worldwide, and is seen twice weekly on cable television. He’s also active in Springfield, as part-owner of the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes baseball team. Cory Pitt spoke to “Double J” on Community Voices about the wacky world of pro wrestling and the 2023 Shoes season at Robin Roberts Stadium.

Brandon Davis is the host of the Front Row Network Classics podcast. He recently attended the TCM Classic Film Festival. NPR News Director Sean Crawford was also in attendance and sat down with Brandon to talk about the festival highlights.

The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur, Illinois.

The Washington Park Botanical Garden plans to replace its conservatory dome, which was constructed in the 1970s. Botanical Garden General Manager Alexa Bryan Potts spoke to Community Voices about the need for the dome and how she hopes it will attract future visitors. She also shared the garden’s need for volunteers and what’s blooming at Washington Park.

Tracey Meares is a Yale Law professor and a founding director of the Justice Collaboratory at Yale Law School. She is also the subject of the documentary "No Title for Tracey," which explains the racism Meares faced as a Springfield High School student.

The Illinois Symphony Orchestra is wrapping up its season with its final concert titled “Epic Ending.” Conductor Andrew Joon Choi and soloist Joshua Roman spoke to Community Voices about the pieces that the orchestra will perform which include music by composers Michael Torke, Antonín Dvořák and Béla Bartók.

Ersen and Tuba Yildirim expand their Springfield business ventures from Ugly Nail and Spa into Turkish dining with Ugly Restaurant and Bar