Podcasts about community voices

Disclaimer: The term woman is frequently used in this episode and Kanwal's book Taking Care of You, to refer to the target audience, although the material discussed applies to anyone with a uterus, cervix, or vagina. We recognize that not all people with these body parts identify as a woman and that not all people who identify as a woman have these body partsKanwal Haq is dedicated to improving health and care for women across the world. With 17+ years of experience working in various healthcare roles and spaces, Kanwal brings dedication, creativity, and humility to keep learning and moving forward. Kanwal founded TCY Women to build better tools, resources, and systems of care to support women's health, across the lifespan. Kanwal completed her B.S. in biology from the University of Missouri, her M.S. in medical anthropology from Boston University, and is working on her PhD in public health at UTHealth. Kanwal is the co-author of “Taking Care of You: The Empowered Woman's Guide to Better Health (Mayo Clinic Press 2022). Kanwal's rural midwestern roots cultivated her passion to make health education and care both accessible and appropriate for every woman.When we look at the research, a clear pattern emerges — women and gender diverse people are too often dismissed, undertreated, and left behind by our healthcare system. The 2024 KFF Women's Health Survey found that one in three women reported being ignored or disbelieved by a healthcare provider, and data from the PNAS (2024) study showed that clinicians consistently rated women's pain as less severe than men's for the same symptoms. Together, these studies tell a sobering truth — gender bias is not anecdotal, it's structural. 

Two-time Olympic gold medalist Ryan Held announced his retirement from professional swimming in August. The Springfield native earned both of his gold medals as part of the U.S. Men's 4×100 Freestyle Relay teams in 2016 and 2024.Held joins Community Voices to reflect on his swimming career, share his ongoing ties to his hometown of Springfield, and talk about the importance of supporting young athletes. He also discusses his career transition to a role at Goldman Sachs, and how swimming will continue to play a role in his life beyond competition.

Nathan Peak, chef at The Foundry Kitchen inside of Anvil and Forge Brewing and Distilling, talks to Community Voices about his passion for making memorable food. He discusses what brought about his passion for cooking, and how his creativity has evolved over his years in the kitchen. Nathan also speaks about what is next on his culinary journey.

In this enlightening episode of the Book Faire Podcast, we dive into the world of children's literature with author and illustrator Christy Mandin. Host Anthony explores the creation of 'Millie Fleur Saves the Night,' a unique YA literature work that embraces themes of darkness and ecological awareness, particularly addressing the issue of light pollution. Christy discusses the challenges of illustrating such themes and the critical role her protagonist, Millie Fleur, plays as a disruptor in modern children's literature. They also delve into pressing topics such as recent book bans in libraries, highlighting the importance of literature in fostering knowledge empowerment and community change among young readers. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how children's and YA literature are evolving to tackle complex social and environmental issues.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:23 Exploring the Moon Garden04:12 Artistic Challenges in Nighttime Illustration10:22 Navigating Editorial Feedback14:14 Personifying the Dark19:14 Millie Fleur's Mission to Save the Night21:58 The Ecological Message Behind the Story24:25 Connecting with the Inner Child36:26 Texas School Libraries Under Scrutiny39:57 Controversies Surrounding Mobile Library Services42:42 Community Voices on Children's LiteratureKeywordsChristy Mandin, Millie Fleur, children's literature, book bans, library policies, ecological themes, storytelling, darkness, light, disruption

In this enlightening episode of the Book Faire Podcast, we dive into the world of children's literature with author and illustrator Christy Mandin. Host Anthony explores the creation of 'Millie Fleur Saves the Night,' a unique YA literature work that embraces themes of darkness and ecological awareness, particularly addressing the issue of light pollution. Christy discusses the challenges of illustrating such themes and the critical role her protagonist, Millie Fleur, plays as a disruptor in modern children's literature. They also delve into pressing topics such as recent book bans in libraries, highlighting the importance of literature in fostering knowledge empowerment and community change among young readers. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how children's and YA literature are evolving to tackle complex social and environmental issues.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:23 Exploring the Moon Garden04:12 Artistic Challenges in Nighttime Illustration10:22 Navigating Editorial Feedback14:14 Personifying the Dark19:14 Millie Fleur's Mission to Save the Night21:58 The Ecological Message Behind the Story24:25 Connecting with the Inner Child36:26 Texas School Libraries Under Scrutiny39:57 Controversies Surrounding Mobile Library Services42:42 Community Voices on Children's LiteratureKeywordsChristy Mandin, Millie Fleur, children's literature, book bans, library policies, ecological themes, storytelling, darkness, light, disruption

ArRell Bradly is the CEO of ArRell Accessories and is 10 years old. Her mom joins Community Voices for a discussion of business and why it's never too soon to start learning.

The new Mid-Illinois Communications Association is hosting the Mid-Illinois AI for Communicators Workshop Oct. 23 at the UIS Student Union. MICA joined Community Voices to preview the conference and explain how AI is a tool if you learn it.

Jessica Baumberger and Dr. Neetu Singh joins Community Voices to update the use of AI in higher education and why learning it is advantageous.

Bea Bonner does her exit interview on Community Voices with Sean Crawford and Randy Eccles after eight years at NPR Illinois.

Ross returns to Community Voices to discuss the lessons he's learned three years into his Beardstown based floral show, Rosebud and Co. He also discusses the impact of recent economic tariffs have had on his business and why it is important to use small floral shops for your special occasions.

 Industrial Water Week 2025: Careers Friday brings the celebration back to first principles—mentors, disciplined training, and field diagnostics that go beyond the screen. Trace reflects on the people who invested in his craft, recognizes guest contributors across the week, and issues a practical challenge to invest in one new professional before the day ends.   Foundations that Compound A candid mentorship story anchors today's episode. Trace recalls how early-career intimidation turned into decades of teaching fundamentals and math at AWT—proof that asking better questions grows better practitioners. Careers Friday becomes a prompt to text the person who built your foundation—and to be that person for someone else.  Fieldcraft Over Flash: A Detective H2O Lesson  The Detective H2O case distills high-value diagnostics for cooling systems: TTPC biocide can mask PTSA and fool controllers into overfeeding inhibitor; missing blowdown lockout during biocide feed wastes product; and stabilized bromine can become over-stabilized in long-HTI systems—driving ORP spikes, corrosion risk, and poor microbial control. Technology is essential, but interpretation is the craft.  Community Voices and a Career Pledge  Careers Friday features greetings from industry professionals and closes with Water You Know, a reminder that water often carries purchased energy (heat, cooling, pressure, flow, pre-treatment) that leaders must account for. The day ends with a clear ask: celebrate your mentors, share your origin story with #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O, and pledge to help one newcomer discover industrial water treatment.  Durable careers are built on shared knowledge, thoughtful diagnostics, and intentional mentorship. Use today to do all three.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:20 — Opening: Industrial Water Week recap (Pretreatment, Boiler, Cooling, Wastewater) leading into Careers Friday. 03:15 — Community recognition: Scaling Up Nation “20,000+ members” and daily celebration via #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O. 05:20 — Careers Friday actions: take photos with equipment, mentors, or customers; share to celebrate the craft. 05:29 — Team traditions: the Industrial Water Week cake (including the infamous “water cake” anecdote). 09:16 — Mentorship story: meeting Bruce Ketrick Sr. and Jay Farmery; intimidation becomes investment. 13:12 — Writing the Fundamentals program with Mark Lewis to build durable entry-level foundations. 14:18 — Personal note: when Trace's father passed, how Bruce showed up—mentorship beyond the classroom. 16:15 — Careers greetings begin (Lee Bainbrigge, SMS Environmental): be open-minded, keep learning, focus on customer assurance. 18:07 — Episode reference: Lee's prior appearance (Ep. 370) for Legionella perspectives. 18:21 — Careers greeting (Kalpna Solanki): environmental operator roles as purposeful, global, and essential. 21:39 — Detective H2O — The Case of Knowing It All begins. 38:21 — CWT pathway: free prep resource and 100-question practice exam walkthrough . 42:46 — Water You Know with James McDonald 44:38 — Gratitude for James McDonald's ongoing community impact. 45:04 — Careers Friday challenge: thank your mentors; post your origin story with #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O. 46:15 — Final pledge: help one person discover industrial water treatment this week.    Connect with Mike Taraszki  Phone: 510.368.4549  Email: michael.taraszki@wsp.com  Website: www.wsp.com  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaeltaraszki/  linkedin.com/company/wsp/    Connect with Kalpna Solanki  Phone: 778.688.9196  Email: kalpnasolanki1980@gmail.com Water Environment Federation (WEF)  LinkedIn: in/kalpnasolanki    Connect with Lee Bainbrigge  Email: l.bainbrigge@sms-environmental.co.uk  Website: https://sms-environmental.co.uk/  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lbainbrigge/  linkedin.com/company/sms-environmental-ltd/    Connect with James Courtney Phone: +1 443 878 2407 Email: james@csctech2o.com Website: https://www.csctech2o.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-courtney-cwt-leed-ap-379a6877/    Connect with Laith Charles   Phone: 941-301-1309   Email: laith@ewatermark.net   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMuigehZdcquaY14QtGm    Connect with Mark Lewis  Phone: 704.322.5406 Email: MLewis@SELaboratories.com Website: https://www.selaboratories.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-lewis-01a3b56    Connect with James McDonald   Email: james51471@gmail.com Website: chemaqua.com Industrialwaterweek.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mcdonald-pe/     Links Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  Industrial Water Week  Water Cake Recipe  031 The One with Mark Lewis  034 The Other One With Mark Lewis, CWT  062 The One with the Pulsafeeder Guy  112 The One Where Trace Is Interviewed By Mark Lewis  141 The One About Neglected Accounts  149 The One About Some of the Lesser-Used Technologies  224 The One About The Internet Of Things (IoT) Augmented Industrial Water Treatment  355 Backflow Prevention: Safeguarding Water Quality  362 Navigating 97-005: Insights and Impacts on Potable Water  370 Unlocking Legionella Solutions: Perspectives on Regulations and Best Practices  394 Visibility and Value: Enhancing Sustainability in Water Treatment  404 Eight Tips for Business Management: Part 1 – Essential Strategies  406 Eight Tips for Business Management: Part 2 – Essential Strategies    Water You Know with James McDonald   Question: What forms of purchased energy may be present in water?       

Community Voices contributor Craig McFarland talks with cast members Olivia Garrett and Jackson Thornton along with directors Nicole and John Sivak about the musical created from the film coming to the Hoogland Center for the Arts.

At the Sea World Diwali event, community leaders from across Queensland shared their reflections on the significance of celebrating Diwali in Australia, how it compares to traditions in India, and what the festival means in the context of current national debate on migration. Rav Kaur, Pushpinder Oberoi and Seema Chauhan's insights offer a glimpse into the evolving cultural landscape and the role of festivals in fostering inclusion and understanding.

Elnora Brooks and Calia Cole join Community Voices to share the work of R&B Live Ladies Edition and to elevate R&B in the central Illinois music scene.

This week at The Collective Church, Hamish, Sean and Christos each shared powerful testimonies of God's goodness and guidance. From prophetic words, miraculous protection and discipleship in everyday life, to freedom, authentic community and generational impact, to trusting God through major life transitions and hidden seasons, their stories echo one invitation: surrender the reins, walk with the Spirit, and discover the adventure of God-led lives in community. Follow The Collective Church on Facebook

In Episode 7 of Voices of Sevathon, we speak with Pramod Karuthedathumana from Pallium India-USA. What started as a personal journey of discovery turned into a mission to support palliative care through awareness and fundraising. In this conversation, Pramod shares how Pallium India is building bridges of compassion and why the ICC Sevathon has become a powerful platform to amplify their cause.Join host Fiza Najeeb as we explore how community, purpose, and collective action come together at Sevathon to create lasting impact.Host: Fiza NajeebGuest: Pramod K, Representative - pallium India USA#TALRadioenglish #VoicesOfSevathon #Sevathon2025 #PalliumIndia #CommunityOfCare #ICCSanFrancisco #SevathonStories #BuildingCommunity #NonprofitVoices #FundraisingForGood #PalliativeCareAwareness

Welcome to this week's Blonde Intelligence, I am your host Ms. Roni and I always seek to give you exquisite cranial repertoire. What happens when commercial interests collide with cultural authenticity? The recent Drake-Kendrick Lamar rap beef and Young Thug's leaked jail calls have sparked crucial conversations about hip-hop's soul as the genre marks its 50th anniversary.Diving deep into this cultural moment, we explore how Kendrick's pointed lyrics in "The Heart Part 4" serve as a critical response to perceived inauthenticity in contemporary hip-hop. When Mos Def famously dismissed Drake's music as "Target shopping music," he highlighted the growing tension between commercial success and cultural integrity. Meanwhile, Young Thug's controversial jail call comments reveal troubling dynamics where personal conflicts overshadow the artistry hip-hop was built upon.Hip-hop emerged from 1970s Bronx as more than music—it was a powerful voice for marginalized communities facing social injustice and economic disparity. True hip-hop carries profound responsibilities: community upliftment, youth engagement, authentic representation, and social activism. As the genre evolves, with hip-hop elements likely appearing in virtually all music by 2025, artists must navigate their responsibilities carefully, balancing innovation with respect for the culture's foundational values.This episode challenges both artists and listeners to consider what it means to honor hip-hop's legacy while embracing its evolution. Are we preserving the authentic voice that made hip-hop revolutionary, or sacrificing cultural integrity for commercial appeal? The conversation isn't just about music—it's about cultural preservation, community responsibility, and the power of authentic expression.Subscribe on YouTube, follow on social media, or listen on all major podcast platforms to join the conversation about hip-hop's past, present, and future. The show is returning to its original name, "Blonde Intelligence"—same insightful content with the original branding you've come to know.Support the show

We speak with actor and activist Casey Adler, John Parker, co-founder of the Harriet Tubman Center, and Lulu Hammond, co-founder of SoCal Uprising. Together, they are organizing Labor 4 Palestine: An Arms Embargo Rally and Teach-In Series, happening Saturday, September 6 at 11:00 a.m. at Downtown Los Angeles City Hall. The event will bring together workers, activists, and community members to demand an end to U.S. support for the war on Gaza. Featured speakers include Chris Smalls, the Amazon Labor Union president and nationally recognized organizer, and Lily Greenberg Call, the first Jewish Biden administration official to resign in protest over Gaza — along with many more voices for justice. Find more information here https://www.mobilize.us/mobilize/event/836392/ — Subscribe to this podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1637968343?to=page Get in touch: lawanddisorder@kpfa.org Follow us on socials @LawAndDis: https://twitter.com/LawAndDis; https://www.instagram.com/lawanddis/ The post Labor 4 Palestine Rally & Teach-In: Activists, Union Leaders, and Community Voices Gather in Los Angeles, Sept. 6 appeared first on KPFA.

Drs. Teena and Ashish John are pediatricians based in Springfield. They spoke with Community Voices about how they met, what inspired them to pursue careers in pediatrics, and how Disney influences the compassionate care they provide to their patients. The conversation also offers a glimpse into Dr. Ashish John's musical side, including his involvement in a band.

Allison Lacher is the Director of the UIS Visual Arts Gallery and a practicing visual artist whose work blends metallic surfaces, vibrant colors and domestic objects to create emotionally charged spaces. She spoke to Community Voices about her journey to Springfield, her recent curator-in-residence position in Pittsburgh and what's in store for the UIS Visual Arts Gallery this fall. Lacher also discussed her current exhibition at the Illinois State Museum, her work with STNDRD Exhibitions and her hopes for the future of Springfield's arts community.

Community Voices talks with former NPR Illinois reporter Hannah Meisel.

From heartfelt reflections to hilarious heat-induced moments, Vanessa's send-off was equal parts emotional and entertaining.

Prairie Insulation is celebrating 20 years of operation. Fiore Belmonte and Jeremy Nihiser spoke to Community Voices about the business's growth. They shared how Prairie Insulation got its start in Springfield, how insulation technology has evolved and what it means to take a people-first approach in the trades.

Greg Peterson is a local public defender with a knack for trivia. He has been a contestant on "Teen Jeopardy," "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," and "The Chase." Greg spoke with Community Voices about the behind-the-scenes world of game shows, the strategies he used to compete, and why he encourages everyone to apply. He also shared his thoughts on former "Jeopardy!" host Alex Trebek and legendary game show contestant James Holzhauer.

Sangamon County ROSC is a group that connects people with the resources they need to address substance use challenges and build a foundation for lasting recovery. They work to identify and reduce barriers and gaps for individuals and families, ensuring they have the support and resources necessary for success. Whitney Devine, Sangamon County ROSC Program Manager, and Austin Dambacher, Sangamon ROSC Coordinator, spoke with Community Voices about community support, the stigma people in recovery face, and their 2025 Community Survey Findings & Strategic Plan. Find more about Sangamon County ROSC here.

Jean Follin is a licensed clinical professional counselor and a long-time volunteer at the Hoogland Center for the Arts. In fact, the volunteer award at the Hoogland Center is named in her honor. She spoke to Community Voices about her love of music and theatre, and her inspiration to help others through counseling. She also reflected on her time with the Sound Celebration Chorus, a women's acapella chorus, and gave a preview of what to expect at the chorus' upcoming concert on Sept. 13.

Jaden Saunders is a local tap dancer who's been making a name for himself through his many performances in Springfield. His mother, Tiffani Saunders, is a sociologist and former professor at the University of Illinois Springfield. In this Community Voices interview we learn how Tiffani enrolled Jaden in tap at a young age as an outlet for his rambunctious energy. We also hear Jaden's plans for the future, and we discuss the roots of tap dancing and the barriers to entry for young people.

Park-N-Chill is a small snack and ice cream shop located in Washington Park, run by the Klyczek family. Steve Klyczek spoke with Community Voices about how they started the business, the variety of offerings they provide, and the most rewarding aspects of being part of the community. Click here to learn more.

Lauren Williams is a policy analyst, baker, and she recently appeared as Maria in Springfield Theatre Centre's production of “The Sound of Music.” She spoke to Community Voices about her passion for public service, and her adventures singing with the Springfield Choral Society, including a memorable Sound of Music tour in Austria.

Tóchar Community Voices is a storytelling initiative, part of Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration Project. The three-year project is dedicated to wetland restoration, research, and community engagement across Ireland's midlands.

Community Voices addresses the recent cuts to CPB funding.

The Pelvic Wellness Center opened in October 2024 to support both women and men's pelvic health. The center offers specialized treatment for pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. Mary Hitt, Director of the Pelvic Wellness Center at SIU Medicine, and Kaylie Caswell, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner and Sexuality Counselor at SIU Medicine, spoke with Community Voices about common reasons people visit the center, as well as topics related to pelvic health and sexual health counseling and education. They emphasized the importance of normalizing conversations around sexual health and discussed how social media has influenced public perceptions of traditionally "taboo" topics. For more information about the Pelvic Wellness Center, click here.Listener discretion is advised.

Zac Chase is an educator whose career spans from classrooms to the U.S. Department of Education. A Springfield native, Chase is also the co-host of Academic Distinctions, a podcast that brings insightful discussions on a wide range of topics in education. He spoke to Community Voices about his early experiences growing up in Springfield and writing for the State Journal-Register, and how those moments shaped his path into education. He also shared insights from his time at the U.S. Department of Education and explained challenges American schools face post-pandemic.

The Springfield Area Arts Council is hosting the second annual Shakespeare in the Park on July 25 and July 26. This free, family-friendly event brings live theatre to Enos Park in Springfield, featuring performances by the Starling Shakespeare Company, a migratory theatre company. Springfield Area Arts Council Executive Director Bella Szabo and Starling Shakespeare Company Producing Artistic Director and Cofounder Jessie Lillis spoke with Community Voices about the Starling Shakespeare Company and the two plays being performed this year: The Comedy of Errors and Hamlet. Click here to find more information.

In this multi-grantee episode, Hawaiʻi Rising speaks with three organizations uplifting their communities through filmmaking. First, we speak with Pua Case from Mauna Kea Education & Awareness and filmmaker Jalena Keane-Lee about their feature-length documentary Standing Above the Clouds, which premiered last year. Building on an earlier short film with the same name released in 2020, the feature-length documentary follows three families of Native Hawaiian mother-daughter activists standing to protect sacred Mauna Kea from the construction of the massive Thirty Meter Telescope. Next, we revisit our 2022 conversation with Vera Zambonelli, the founder of Hawaiʻi Women in Filmmaking. Hawaiʻi Women in Filmmaking is a longtime HPF grantee partner committed to advancing gender equity in filmmaking and advocating for women to tell their stories through film with an intersectional lens. HWF's Reel Camps are filmmaking camps for girls and femme-identifying youth. Finally, we turn to the important behind-the-scenes work of archiving film footage with the initiative Hoʻomau Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina. In this conversation recorded in 2023, we speak with Aunty Joan Lander of Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina and Emma Broderick from Puʻuhonua Society about this effort to catalog and archive over 6000 video tapes of footage shot by documentary organization Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina. To learn more about these hui, listen to our full episodes with them: 23. Mauna Kea Education and Awareness: Standing Every Day for the Mauna 32. Hawai‘i Women in Filmmaking: Getting Reel about Social Change 48. Mauna Kea Education and Awareness: A Pillar for the Lāhui 56. Puʻuhonua Society: Hoʻomau Nā Maka o ka ʻĀina   Tags: Hawaiʻi, Hawai'i, Hawaii

Today's episode we're back to Northampton County, North Carolina, where a quiet but critical debate is heating up over the future of farmland and solar energy.On April 7, 2025, community advocates Sylvia Vincent, Debbie Davis, and Alfred Kwasikpui presented a powerful case to the Northampton County Commissioners. Their message? That insufficient limits on solar farm expansion are threatening the county's agricultural heritage, local economy, and environmental health, contradicting the very goals laid out in the Northampton County 2040 Comprehensive Plan.Northampton County leads the state in peanut production and is second in cotton. Agriculture isn't just a way of life here, it's the backbone of the economy. But with over a dozen large-scale solar farms already operating or approved and more on the way, residents are sounding the alarm about lost farmland, pressured landowners, and long-term environmental concerns. Not to mention, most of these solar farms are going to power large scale data centers like Facebook, not even benefiting the local community.In today's episode, we'll unpack:The clash between renewable energy development and farmland preservationConcerns over land use, decommissioning, and soil restorationThe role of industry influence and the need for independent oversightAnd, most importantly, what this means for rural communities across the U.S.This is a conversation about balance, how we embrace clean energy without sacrificing the communities and landscapes that feed us. So, let's explore the voices, facts, and stakes behind the push for responsible solar farm limits in Northampton County.I split this episode into two parts, since it was so long. So make sure to come back in two weeks for part two. Contact and connect: vincentsy@northampton.k12.nc.us, chemdeb@embarqmail.com, aw6kwas@gmail.com Northampton County Against Solar Farms: https://abc11.com/sun-solar-panels-energy/1122081/ https://www.personalized.energy/blog/northampton-implements-temporary-ban-on-solar-farms/#:~:text=In%20response%20to%20the%20public,the%20scope%20of%20their%20authority.

The 1908 Race Riot is a dark moment in Springfield's history, yet many grew up not knowing about the tragedy that set back Black businesses and families for many years to come. President of the Springfield Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Ken Page spoke to Community Voices about the riot and how its legacy continues today. He also shared his experience growing up in Selma, Ala. during the civil rights movement and how it led him to the ACLU.

Family, this is your favorite queer radio personality Anna DeShawn, and this is Queer News — your favorite weekly news pod where race & sexuality meet politics, culture, and entertainment. This week, we're wrapping up Pride month with headlines you need to know: the Supreme Court keeps lifesaving HIV prevention free under the Affordable Care Act, Chicago is officially named the #1 safest travel destination for LGBTQ folks, and Netflix drops a powerful new documentary honoring ballroom legend Venus Xtravaganza. From legal wins to cultural milestones, let's get into it. Want to support this podcast?

Today's episode takes us to Northampton County, North Carolina, where a quiet but critical debate is heating up over the future of farmland and solar energy.On April 7, 2025, community advocates Sylvia Vincent, Debbie Davis, and Alfred Kwasikpui presented a powerful case to the Northampton County Commissioners. Their message? That insufficient limits on solar farm expansion are threatening the county's agricultural heritage, local economy, and environmental health, contradicting the very goals laid out in the Northampton County 2040 Comprehensive Plan.Northampton County leads the state in peanut production and is second in cotton. Agriculture isn't just a way of life here, it's the backbone of the economy. But with over a dozen large-scale solar farms already operating or approved and more on the way, residents are sounding the alarm about lost farmland, pressured landowners, and long-term environmental concerns. Not to mention, most of these solar farms are going to power large scale data centers like Facebook, not even benefiting the local community.In today's episode, we'll unpack:The clash between renewable energy development and farmland preservationConcerns over land use, decommissioning, and soil restorationThe role of industry influence and the need for independent oversightAnd, most importantly, what this means for rural communities across the U.S.This is a conversation about balance, how we embrace clean energy without sacrificing the communities and landscapes that feed us. So, let's explore the voices, facts, and stakes behind the push for responsible solar farm limits in Northampton County.I split this episode into two parts, since it was so long. So make sure to come back in two weeks for part two. Contact and connect: vincentsy@northampton.k12.nc.us, chemdeb@embarqmail.com, aw6kwas@gmail.com Northampton County Against Solar Farms: https://abc11.com/sun-solar-panels-energy/1122081/ https://www.personalized.energy/blog/northampton-implements-temporary-ban-on-solar-farms/#:~:text=In%20response%20to%20the%20public,the%20scope%20of%20their%20authority.

The Legacy Theatre's production of Grease runs June 27–29, July 9–13, July 16–20, and July 23–27. The musical, with music, lyrics, and book by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, follows the summer romance of Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski as they unexpectedly reunite at Rydell High. Alongside their friends, they navigate teenage love, peer pressure, and identity in 1950s America. The story takes place at the fictional Rydell High School in northwest Chicago. Director Scott Richardson and Colum Goebelbecker, who portrays Kenickie, spoke with Community Voices about the show's iconic characters, timeless music, and how the production addresses some of the criticism the musical has faced in modern times. Find tickets and details here.

Curtis Sanders is a children's book author and the new Financial Literacy Program Coordinator at the UIS Career Center. He spoke with Community Voices about his passion for teaching financial literacy and how he's helping students at UIS navigate budgeting, debt, and saving. Curtis also writes children's books based on his family. His latest, Spring City Stories: Oliver's Emotional Odyssey, helps kids understand and express their feelings through colorful illustrations and storytelling.

The Springfield Muni's production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame runs June 20–22 and June 25–28. The musical features music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. It is adapted from Walt Disney Animation Studios' 1996 film, which was itself based on Victor Hugo's 1831 novel. The story follows Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer of Notre Dame, as he struggles for acceptance and love while protecting the kind-hearted Romani woman Esmeralda from the cruelty of Judge Claude Frollo. Director Kevin Kulavic and Liyah Orielle, who plays Esmeralda, spoke to Community Voices about why the show was chosen, its characters, and the relatable themes it explores. Find tickets and details here.

Mike Griffin and Bob Cox are members of the Capital Area Woodworkers Guild, an organization that provides camaraderie and tricks of the trade for local woodworkers. They spoke to Community Voices about the organization, which recently began a new project of building urns for the cremains of unclaimed veterans at Camp Butler National Cemetery.For more information visit: www.cawspi.org

Camp Butler National Cemetery is a place to remembers soldiers of more than a century ago and honor the veterans of today. Christopher Webster is the assistant director at Camp Butler National Cemetery, and Commander Gael Kent is with the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County. They spoke to Community Voices about the rich history of Camp Butler – from its origins as a Civil War prisoner of war camp to its present-day role as a solemn resting place for thousands of veterans.

Mark Reinhart is an author, musician, and film historian from Columbus, Ohio. He spoke with Community Voices about his lifelong interest in Abraham Lincoln and how Lincoln has been portrayed in over 250 film and television productions.

Desiree Logsdon is the Senior Vice President of Corporate Citizenship at Bunn-O-Matic. Logsdon spoke to Community Voices about how her early days in Bunn's test kitchen led her to a career traveling the world. She also shared Bunn family history and explained the many types of products offered at Bunn-O-Matic. She also spoke about her work with the International Women's Coffee Alliance and gave wisdom for others wanting a career in leadership and service.

Plastics are everywhere and the concerns for how they affect our environment and our health are leading scientists to explore new ways to contend with plastic waste. Dr. Damien Guironnet, an associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, and Dr. Alexa Kuenstler, an assistant professor specializing in catalysis and polymer upcycling, spoke to Community Voices about their research.

NOTE: An early version of this audio has an error around 4:50. If you hear that error, it's likely because your podcast player downloaded the first version. Please re-download the episode to hear the correct version! And forgive us, as we're merely human beans

Nate Widelitz is a singer, conductor, and educator. He is also the Founding Director of the Five Cities Baroque Foundation & Festival. He spoke with Community Voices about his music career, passion for teaching, and shares the story behind the foundation, which brings access to high-quality Baroque music to Central Illinois. Nate also previews what audiences can expect from the upcoming concerts, including featured pieces and performances. Learn more about the festival, including dates and locations here.

Prepare to engage in a powerful discussion as former FBI agent Dr. Tyrone Powers returns to our classroom this Thursday morning. Dr. Powers will delve into the pressing issue of the security leak involving members of the Trump National Security team, drawing crucial comparisons to Hillary Clinton’s alleged email controversy. Before Dr. Powers takes the mic, activist Jasmine Pate will share her mother’s poignant story of living with HIV/AIDS. This reality disproportionately affects Black women more than any other group. Joining us will be the esteemed international journalist Brother Obie, adding further depth to our conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.