Awisi Bustos is the Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director at Illinois Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. She spoke to Community Voices about the Boys & Girls Clubs in Illinois and how they provide opportunities that have lasting effects on youth. She also shared her experience growing up in other countries and how it formed her perspective on helping others.

Watch the candidates for Springfield mayor answer questions residents submitted for the event.

Springfield may not have the hustle and bustle of Chicago, but communal bonds are everything for our local businesses. Tate Cronin, manager and apprentice at Good Heart Tattoos, explains the origins of the business, the relationships between local businesses, and how tattoos capture the raw emotions people cannot seem to get enough of.

The Looking for Lincoln Stories podcast shares stories about the people and places of Abraham Lincoln’s time. It also highlights lesser known stories about African Americans who lived in the area. Heather Feezor is the director and David Blanchette writes for the podcast. They spoke to Community Voices about slavery and indentured servitude in Illinois and how African Americans at the time were affected by Illinois law.

Amy Battles, Karen Rhodes, and Jamie Merideth make up the Rhodes and Battles Trio. One of the many bright lights of the central Illinois music scene.

Kevin Lust is the director of the Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois hosted by Growth Corp and president of Lust Development Group Inc. He spoke to Community Voices about resources for small businesses and shared guidance he gives to entrepneurs. He also explained why communities should shop local when possible.

Angel Morgan is the owner of Anjewls Cosmetics LLC. She spoke to Community Voices about overcoming hardship, her love for business and makeup tips. Angel also talks about the importance of a good skincare routine.

Randy Erwin is a musician and artist at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum who has performed across the U.S. and internationally. He spoke to Community Voices about performing at Carnegie Hall and yodeling for the Walt Disney Pictures film “Home on the Range.”

Jodi and Ally Perko are working to resettle a Ukrainian refugee family, the Agaievs, to Springfield through the Wecome.US organization.

Mark Schiff is a comedian and author of the book “Why Not?: Lessons on Comedy, Courage, and Chutzpah.” The book includes several life lessons, stories about Schiff’s famous friends and a healthy dose of humor. Schiff spoke to Community Voices on NPR Illinois about the book and the behind-the-scenes stories of life as a standup comedian.Schiff will open for Jerry Seinfeld at his Feb. 17 performance in Springfield, Ill. For more information about Schiff’s book visit www.markschiff.com.