George Rishel is the owner of the Sly Fox Bookstore in Virden, Ill. He spoke to Community Voices about the history of the building, which has been in his family for nearly a century. Originally, Rishel planned to sell children’s and mystery books in the store but has since expanded to offer many genres, including books by local authors.

Troxell president Michael Aiello discusses how Springfield has the attributes to grow and how its training capacity fosters the thriving medical community.

Tony Libri is refurbishing the property that previously housed Benedictine University and Ursuline Academy. He spoke to Community Voices about the lessons he’s learned in refurbishing properties and his volunteer activities with the Matthew Project, a program which was started by his wife and helps children experiencing homelessness.

Dr. Leigh Steiner has worked in the mental health industry for more than 30 years. She is also well known for her contributions to the performing arts community, having directed several successful musical productions including “Cats” and “Sunday in the Park with George.” She spoke to Community Voices about how the human experience influences art, and how art helps us communicate our human experiences.

Frank Trompeter is a local musician and saxophone player, who performs jazz and classical music. He spoke to Community Voices about how his family developed his love of music. He also shared his interests in jazz, classical and punk music.

John Love is a music director at Chicago's The Second City. He spoke to Community Voices about his come up in the world of music and the challenges as a musician in an improv group, in which he never knows what he is going to play next.

Dr. Peterson is the owner and a veterinarian at Laketown Animal Hospital. He spoke to Community Voices about changing careers as a teacher into the veterinarian profession. He also gave tips for how to best take care of your dog or cat and shared several of the services Laketown Animal Hospital provides.

Dr. Matthew Vala is the Education Director of the Hoogland Performing Arts Education program at the Hoogland Center for the Arts. He recently received his doctorate in voice performance. He spoke to Community Voices about how he created the education program, which teaches students performing arts skills as well as confidence. He announced on the show that he will soon complete his last season at the Hoogland Center and shared what he hopes to do next.

Scott Dahl is the director of the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau. He spoke to Community Voices about the tourism industry in Sangamon County, which includes two million annual visitors. He also shared how the Convention and Visitors Bureau plans to entice future visitors by pairing Route 66 and Lincoln.

Chris Speyrer is the owner of the Mason City Limits Comedy Club. He spoke to Community Voices about touring the U.S. as a comedian and eventually settling in Mason City. He also shared some behind-the-scenes stories of life on the road and how he enjoys running a comedy club where he can be surrounded by funny people.