Interviews

“When people call or come through our doors, they are not only physically hurt but are also emotionally stressed…Their worlds are turned upside down, and it is rewarding to see and hear the relief they feel knowing that someone is finally on their side.”

“We have a community that cares about what the farming community provides. It’s a great place to be a farmer and a peacemaker.”

Matt talks with Leslie Cooperband of local farm Prairie Fruit Farms and Creamery about their award-winning cheeses, farm life, and baby goats.

Kingfisher Kayaking is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing affordable kayak rentals and conservation education to East Central Illinois. 

“Over the course of the last year, with the pandemic, one of the things that has become really clear is the extent to which racism impacts people's health and the public’s health.”

After forging a relatively clear path to a second term as Mayor of Urbana, Diane Marlin looks back at the accomplishments of the last four years and ahead to the future of Urbana.

Jaclyn asks three people from the C-U community about what has surprised them over the past year and where we go from here. 

“I knew they didn’t need to eat takeout everyday, but they wanted to show us that they support us.” San Maru's co-owners share the joys of growing up Korean, the unsavory reaction some had to kimchi, and the struggles of owning a restaurant in a pandemic.

Sandra Ahten is a progressive candidate challenging long time incumbent school board member John Dimit.

“I’ve been on both sides of the policy process: in the street with a megaphone and at the table poring over reports. I want to use my experience to improve my community.”