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"Preparation meets opportunity."Ashley Brown is a Broadway superstar. She stepped into the lead role of Belle in Beauty and the Beast before originating the titular role of Mary Poppins. We had a chance to speak with her just as she’s heading to Walt Disney World to perform in the Disney on Broadway series as part of the Epcot Festival of the Arts. In addition to her love for all things Disney, we spoke to her about how she prepared for the opportunities that lead her to Broadway. This is a great conversation for anyone considering a future in musical theatre or just wanting to follow their own dreams. We are so grateful that she shared her time and talents with us, she really is "practically perfect" in every way.

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker will deliver a combined budget and state of the state address on Wednesday. Pritzker will likely tout his accomplishments during his first term as prepares to seek re-election. Meanwhile, Republicans are focused on crime as a key issue in the race to unseat Pritzker. Some have already hit the airwaves with their message.

Chuck Davis, managing partner at Brown, Hay + Stephens law firm. The business is nearly 200 years old and includes Abraham Lincoln as one of the attorneys who practiced there. Davis discusses the history of the firm and the career of law today.

The Citizen’s Club of Springfield held a forum via Zoom in January 2022 titled “Confronting Inequities in the Criminal Justice System.” The discussion featured panelists UIS assistant professor Dr. Sean McCandless; DeAndre Neal, a prisoner reentry and prevention program manager; and State’s Attorney Dan Wright, as well as Alderwoman LaKeisha Purchase.

It had been rumored for weeks. Aurora's mayor Richard Irvin announced this week he is entering the race for governor. In launching his bid, he attacked Gov. J.B. Pritzker. But before he could face off against the first term Democrat, Irvin will need to win a crowded Republican primary. Our panel discusses his chances.

Brandon Davis and Eric Flick co-host the Front Row Network Classics podcast, which focuses on classic movies. They spoke to Community Voices about how they found their love of older films, and they share their thoughts on film remakes. They also share their favorite film genres and their favorite celebrity interviews.

Paul Layton, owner and Brandon Rice, manager share how Underdog Sports works to recycle lightly used sports equipment so others can afford to participate on teams and individual activities. They also carry fan fare or souvenirs of professional and college teams.

Horace Mann is a national insurance company with roots in Springfield, Ill. Ryan Greenier, the Principal Officer of the Horace Mann Educators Foundation, spoke to Community Voices about the history of the company and its interest in educators. He also shared the programs and ways Horace Mann helps teachers invest in themselves, as well as ways educators can reach out to the community to invest in their classrooms.

A Department of Children and Family Services caseworker was attacked and killed while on a welfare check this month. It's happened before and that's making state lawmakers take notice of the dangers with the job. We talk with a former investigator who now trains those entering a career in child protection.And a pastor who lost his wife to COVID-19 tells his story. He had decided against being vaccinated, but has since teamed up with the state to spread the message that the shots save lives.Those stories and more on Statewide.

Front Row Classics is celebrating 100 episodes! We're incredibly grateful to our listeners for embracing us and supporting our efforts in keeping classic film alive.Brandon and Eric are also celebrating the 60th anniversary of To Kill a Mockingbird. This legendary film is beloved by multiple generations thanks to its lessons of love and empathy. We're thrilled to be joined by Scout herself, Mary Badham. Mary graciously recounts her memories of filming as well as her co-stars, including Gregory Peck who she still refers to as "Atticus." We also discuss her feelings on the film's lasting legacy.