Amy Beadle is the marketing manager at the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau for the City of Springfield. She spoke to Community Voices about volunteering with local non-profit and career development organizations in Springfield. She also shared the plans for the Illinois Women in Leadership Symposium and what she is looking forward to at the event.

Angela Holland and Aubrey Johnson are the owners of Velvet & Rosemary. They spoke to Community Voices about how they started their business and gave details about their upcoming fashion show. They also shared the behind-the-scenes story of styling the country music group Chapel Hart.

William Wilkie and Elizabeth Buchta are the duo behind the musical group Peaches and Bacon. They spoke to Community Voices about the worldwide appeal of old-time music and performing folk music in Berlin, Germany.

Jeremy Nunes is a local comedian living in Riverton. He spoke to Community Voices about pursuing a career as a comedian, and how a joke led to his role as Mayor of Dawson, Ill.

Mark McDonald was the host of "Illinois Stories" on Public Television for 19 years. The show is no longer in production. McDonald shared his favorite memories from hosting the show and what he plans to do next.

Land of Lincoln Honor Flight is an organization that sends local veterans to Washington D.C. to view the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War memorials. President of the organization Joan Bortolon and Veteran Coordinator Steve Wheeler spoke to Community Voices about coordinating the visit and the experience veterans receive both in D.C. and upon their return to Springfield.

The Citizens Club of Springfield policy breakfast addressed how nonprofits managed through the pandemic and since.

Gordon Davis is the owner of Whimsy Tea. He spoke to Community Voices about moving the business to a larger brick and mortar location, as well as the expansion of offerings they have for customers. Davis also explained how he collaborates with area businesses and creates custom tea blends.

Kathyy Battee-Freeman is the Director of the Career Development Center on the UIS campus. She spoke to Community Voices about how she helps students assess their skills and pursue careers. She also talked about her hobbies and why every day she wears purple.

Mary Frances and Beverly Helm-Renfro are the authors of the book “African Americans in Springfield.” They spoke to Community Voices about the stories behind the photos featured in the book. Helm-Renfro also spoke about her father who captured many of the images showcased in the book.