Vanessa Ferguson

Sangamon County Animal Control is the temporary homes of many animals including dogs and cats. Director Jeanne Keenan and volunteer Mike Krcil spoke to Community Voices about the need for volunteers to help provide enrichment to the pets waiting their forever homes. They also spoke about the need for pet adoptions and how all members in the home should be on board with adding a four-legged friend to the family.To view adoptable pets visit Petfinder.com.

The Kidzeum has increased its STEAM education offerings since the COVID-19 pandemic. Executive Director Leah Wilson spoke to Community Voices about how the museum is helping educators. Wilson also shared plans for renovations and a new pollinator mural.For more information about the Kidzeum visit: https://kidzeum.org/

This week on Beyond the Mouse we learn about Disney100: The Exhibition in an interview with Director of the Walt Disney Archives Becky Cline. We hear about the featured artifacts that provide insight into Walt's life. We also learn how the exhibition was curated and how some artifacts will come to life.Disney100: The Exhibition opens in Chicago on Nov. 18 and runs through Spring 2024. For more information visit: ⁠https://disney100exhibit.com/chicago/⁠

Christian Nix is the new Community Voices contributor for Community Voices. Christian sat down with Co-host Vanessa Ferguson to discuss his passion for sports journalism and why he chose UIS.

Toni Lowenthal is the owner and curator of Perspectives Art Gallery in Petersburg. She spoke to Community Voices about the local artists as well as the artists from outside the region that are featured in the gallery. She also spoke about the charm of Petersburg, and how she hopes to add to the town’s culture through her gallery. An opening reception is planned for Nov. 11. For more information visit https://perspectivesartgallery.com/

Charles Ray retired from the US Foreign Service in 2012 after a 30-year career in which he served as ambassador to both Cambodia and Zimbabwe. He spoke to Community Voices about Blueprints for a More Modern US Diplomatic Service which makes recommendations on how to improve weaknesses in US diplomacy. He also explained what American diplomats do in the day-to-day and his insight into leadership and life-long education.

“A Man of No Importance” will make its regional premiere on Nov. 3-5 and 10-12. The show takes place in 1960s Ireland and follows the story of Alfie, who struggles to come to terms with who he is. Director Laurie Barnes and Assistant Director Betsy O’Brien spoke to Community Voices about the show, its Irish music, and the feeling of community in the performing arts.For ticket information: https://www.hcfta.org/tickets

“ENOUGH: Plays to End Gun Violence” is a nationwide effort to bring awareness to the issue of gun violence through theater. The event takes places on Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. in the UIS Studio Theatre. Springfield Moms Demand Action founder Tara McClellan McAndrew and UIS Students Demand Action founder Jessica Green spoke to Community Voices about the issue of gun violence and what to expect at the Nov. 6 event.For ticket information: https://uispac.com/enough-plays-to-end-gun-violence/

Jim Yale and Keith Bradbury are actors in the upcoming production of “From the Writer’s Desk, (and the Director’s Chair).” They spoke to Community Voices about the play and how its gives insight into the creative process of the late playwright Ken Bradbury and his relationship to the actors in his shows. The performance takes place on Nov. 11 at the Broadgauge in Petersburg, Ill. For more information visit: https://www.broadgauge.com/events