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Springfield native Eric Fotre Leach works for the Broadway show "Come From Away." His husband Justin Mendoza also works on Broadway as the music director for "The Book of Mormon." They spoke with Community Voices about their paths that led them to working in New York, and their plans to start a family. To learn more about Eric and Justin's adoption story visit https://www.ericandjustinadopt.com/.

A new vaccine requirement for teachers and health care workers, as well as university employees and students, is now in effect. For those who choose to avoid getting the shots, they will need to be tested weekly. But the testing rollout has been bumpy. Also, some are pushing back on the mandate, with some even going to court.

Chris Nickell is the COO of Highlander Renewables, a company in the renewable energy industry. Nickell also competes in highland games and owns several buildings in downtown Springfield. He spoke with Community Voices about his career and traveling to Scotland to participate in highland games.

Larry gets the chance to sit down with (and gush about) comedian, author, podcaster and father Nathan Timmel. They discuss comedy (a little), Nathan’s three books, his difficulty not critiquing media and his love of the band Fishbone. Check Nathan out at https://nathantimmel.com/

The Springfield Ballet Company will present their annual fall show "Rock Ballet" on Oct. 2 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Artistic Director Julie Ratz spoke with Community Voices about the the show's theme "emerge" and the ballet's return to live performances. Ratz also shared the history of the show and how it provides an opportunity for dancers to perform other genres of dance.

The NFL's Chicago Bears have called Soldier Field home since 1971. But the team is apparently eyeing a suburban site. Can Chicago keep the Bears in the city? And what would the club gain by moving?That story and more on this week's Statewide.

Dan Frachey is the owner of Legacy Weavers Video. During the pandemic Frachey was forced to pivot his career and opened a business to help others tell their stories through video. He spoke with Community Voices about his new career and the services his company offers.Originally aired September 22, 2021.

Sangamon County State's Attorney Dan Wright discusses a career path in Public Interest Law

The Illinois Senate this week approved the state's new energy package and the governor quickly signed it into law. It saves a pair of nuclear plants, and the jobs and tax base they provide, along with placing Illinois on a path to a renewable energy future. It also shined light on how the leaders of the state can work through complicated issues to reach a deal. Our panel also discusses the current situation with COVID-19, as a vaccine mandate is set to take effect.

Fun DMC is a local band known for mashing crowd-favorite songs together. Band members Robert Reynolds and Katey Kamerad spoke with Community Voices about how the band got its start. They also explained how they choose songs to mash together and some of their fun antics to hype up crowds.