Search results for

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.

We are so grateful this week to have a chance to speak with the filmmakers behind Disney's 60th animated feature, Encanto. Since arriving in theaters in November and on Disney+ in December, this movie has really struck a cord with audiences of all backgrounds. Directors Jared Bush and Bryon Howard bring us their second film together, having co-directed the Academy Award winning film Zootopia. They are joined on this film by Co-director Charise Castro Smith, who tells us a wonderful story about how she came to be involved with the film. In addition to directing the film, this team of three were also responsible for writing as well. We dive into the creative choices they were able to make throughout the five-year process of bringing Encanto to life.

After months of speculation about another candidate entering the race for governor, reports are that Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin will launch a bid. It has been rumored that he has support of billionaire Ken Griffin. We talk about the chances for Irvin and a slate of other Republicans on a statewide ticket.

Bells In Motion is a handbell choir with roots in Central Illinois. Artistic Director KC Congdon and Emcee David Congdon spoke to Community Voices about the musicianship needed to participate. They also shared how the group got its start and what it takes to set up bells and play them.

Kadejia Berkley is the co-owner of Jerk Shop Go, a restaurant in downtown Springfield and in the White Oaks Mall that features Caribbean cuisine. She spoke to Community Voices about how her family started their business in Chicago and has since opened locations in Springfield and Atlanta.

Kimberly Conner is a writer, producer, director and filmmaker. She spoke to Community Voices about the inspiration for her films and wanting to spread awareness for issues such as breast cancer, HIV and AIDS. She also shared from start to finish, how she creates a film.