The director of the Illinois Community College Board discusses how community colleges are rebounding after the pandemic, why they make so much sense for both traditional and non-traditional students, and a pending piece of legislation that could make it easier for students to move themselves and their credit hours from community colleges to four-year institutions.

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State Sen. Doris Turner checks in with WMAY's Jim Leach to talk about the legislative session, the status of some of her key bills, and how she thinks she'll be able to work with incoming Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher.

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Comedian Jeremy Nunes performs this weekend at Mason City Limits. But before he goes on stage there, he sat down with WMAY's Jim Leach to talk about his comedy career, what it's like to be a "clean" comedian in 2023, and how his book about his stint as the mayor of Dawson could someday become a sitcom or motion picture.

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Legendary rock band Foreigner is bringing its "Farewell Tour" to the BOS Center on Tuesday, May 16th, with special guest Head East. WMAY's Jim Leach talked with Foreigner keyboardist Michael Bluestein about what it's like to perform with this iconic band, why Foreigner is calling it quits after nearly 50 years of success, and what song is his favorite to play live on stage.

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With transgender issues making waves from Congress to athletic teams to public restrooms, Jonna Cooley of the Phoenix Center says it's time to separate truth from fiction. WMAY's Jim Leach sat down with Jonna to talk about myths and reality regarding gender identity issues.

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Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church has become the first Methodist congregation in Springfield to declare itself a "reconciling congregation" -- with open arms for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or other issues. The pastor, Rev. Meredith Manning Brown, talks about how the designation came about and how it aligns with Biblical teaching.

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It's one of the most enjoyable and entertaining events in Springfield this year. WMAY's Jim Leach talks with Chrissy Maher of the Fat Ass 5K and Street Party for Charity about this year's event, as well as how you can save on your registration (hint: use promo code WMAY when you sign up at FatAss5K.com).

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Illinois is only 205 years old -- but our National Guard is celebrating its 300th anniversary. WMAY's Jim Leach talks with Lt. Col. Brad Leighton of the Guard about its long, rich history; the Illinois Guard's role in a World War II drama that would make an amazing screenplay; and the events coming up in Springfield on May 6th to commemorate the anniversary.

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Springfield tourism officials are promoting Mr. Lincoln's Hometown as a tourist destination -- by taking Mr. Lincoln to the NFL Draft in Kansas City, Mo. WMAY's Jim Leach spoke with Amy Beadle of the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, along with Lincoln interpreter Fritz Klein, live from KC about their visit and how it ties into the broader marketing strategy of SCVB.

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Patrick Pfingsten of the Illinoize political newsletter talks with WMAY's Jim Leach about the latest moves at the Statehouse and what the final weeks of the legislative session may hold.

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