News

The vaccine rollout has been a difficult and confusing experience for many elderly residents.  But a 13-year old from Evanston has found a way to help people learn where to sign up.  He created a website.

Also, while restaurants are reopening, many employees remain unvaccinated and worried. 

Those stories and more on this episode of Statewide. 

The Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln produced this Next 10 Extra panel to discuss investing in the arts to develop Springfield's economy.

Originally aired February 26, 2021.

The Chatham Area Public Library eliminated all fines on overdue materials for its library cardholders and registered reciprocal borrowers. Along with going fine free, the library has taken other steps to continue their service through the pandemic. Library Director Amy Byers and Community Engagement Librarian Megan Freeman discuss this and more with Community Voices' Bea Bonner. 

Originally aired February 24, 2021.

Dr. Robert Smith is the Dean of the College of Public Affairs and Administration at the University of Illinois Springfield.  

Originally aired January 15, 2021.

Gemma Long is the CEO of Gem PR & Media. This company specializes in public relations, digital, and social media consultancy. The company is based in Springfield but has clients across the United States and Europe. Gemma and husband Chris Long credit "community over competition" as a mantra they live by. A large part of their business is to foster relationships and collaboration with local business owners. Gemma talks about small businesses in Springfield, embarking on a new venture, and more with Community Voices' Bea Bonner.

Originally aired February 23, 2021.

José Gobbo, Jr. is a UIS music professor and a jazz guitarist. 

Orignally aired January 21, 2021.

Lynn Saputo is Director of Recreation & Marketing and Interim Zoo Director  for the Springfield Park District. Lynn came on as Interim Director of the zoo in February 2020. The Henson Robinson Zoo has over 80 different species of native and exotic animals. They plan to open to the public in March along with some new experiences for guests. Lynn talks about this and more with Community Voices' Bea Bonner. 

Originally aired October 7, 2020.

Cherell Wilson is a recent University of Illinois Springfield gradaute. During the pandemic she was inspired to create her own business Soaps by Rell.

Originally aired January 21, 2021.

Patricia Dulin is a conference speaker, licensed minster, and author. She is a member of Abundant Faith Christian Center. Patricia also co-founded Just As You Are Ministries with her husband Shawn Dulin. Her book 'Crickets... and Then She Cried' is now available. She talks about this and more with Community Voices' Bea Bonner.

Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's legislative district seat saw not just one, but two replacements within a week.  And Governor J.B. Pritzker signed into law a large reform package dealing with crime and policing.

The Chicago Sun-Times' Rachel Hinton joins the panel.

On this episode, when it comes to getting the COVID-19 vaccine, Black residents are less likely to get the shots than whites. We'll look at some of the reasons why and some possible solutions.

And Congressman Adam Kinzinger has become a regular on national talk shows for speaking out against his own party.  Kinzinger grew up in central Illinois and we'll hear what those who've known him the longest have to say about the Republican.      

I believe in car stereos. The stereo may be seen as a flashy accessory for an otherwise necessary means of transportation. But I believe a car stereo is the most important feature of the car. It is the heart of all socialization. Whether a touch-screen or good old-fashioned buttons, this modern music box is something of a magic trick. 

As part of Black History Month, this UIS ECCE panel discussion encourages learning about the societal issues that inform and led to the formation and evolution of the Black Lives Matter Movement. 

Former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan’s vacated 22nd District House seat has a new occupant — the second replacement in four days — after Madigan asked his first choice to step down this week in an embarrassment to the normally fastidious Democratic boss.

Chocolate chip. Pizzelle. Oatmeal raisin. Jan hagel. Shortbread. Camachile. Gingerbread. Stroopwafel. Coconut. Peanut butter. Nearly everyone likes a cookie, regardless of background, identity, or politics; thus, cookies can help bridge the gaps we’ve created in our communities. I believe cookies can bring us together.

Originally aired February 5, 2021.

Chad Graue is a virtual consultant and online trainer who works with farms and other businesses sell food online and grow their customer base. His first book Five Star Follow-up is coming out soon. Chad talks about this and more with Community Voices' Bea Bonner.