Mike Pierce, retired Lt. Colonel of the Army shares his unique perspective on life and how serving in the armed forces have made a difference in the lives of veterans. Because serving in the military is not without risk, many veterans need supportive services to help them reintegrate from military to civilian life as well as give them purpose and community. Lt. Col. Pierce acquired the land and started an organization called New Horizons for Heroes for just that purpose. Though in its infancy, he discusses its goals, programs, and how it is geared to help veterans transition back to civilian life, with life-skills, additional training, and a support structure designed to facilitate successfully meeting those needs. Lt. Col. Pierce also explains how working with other military organizations such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, as well as civilian organizations, business, civic groups, and educators could work together to reinvigorate our citizens, and especially our youth, in the ways of community and patriotism. Additionally, by these groups working together, civic standards such as respect for the rule of law, community service, skills to recognize and question bad influences, and understanding the definition and value of good citizenship, could be firmly reestablished as mainstays of our society.

Gina Parrilli, candidate for Illinois House District 45, sits down with CTC to explain her candidacy and the issues she feels are being ignored by Springfield's one-party government. She discusses the apparent lack of fiscal responsibility and abuse of the Illinois taxpayer, by Springfields super-majority, resulting in an unfriendly environment for Illinois residents and business.

Lt. Col. Mike Pierce ret., candidate for Congress, District 11, shares details of his life that made him the man he is today. He also shares his perspective regarding what difficulties Illinoisan's face, that he believes his constituents would expect him to address on their behalf, as their congressman.

Theresa McClear joins us to discuss her campaign as she runs for DuPage County Board Member of District 2. She explains her personal and business background and why she is uniquely qualified to work for and successfully represent the residents of her district.

Niki Conforti, a life-long Illinoisan, is a Republican candidate running to represent the residents of Congressional District 6. She sits down with us and shares what motivated her to run for Congress, filling in the blanks and describing her transformative life experiences. She further discusses, as the candidate who feels the residents of district 6 should come first, what she issues she would address as Congresswoman, and how she sees herself fulfilling the needs of her district as its public servant.

Former Mayor Rich Irvin has a fascinating history to share, from his time in the military as a combat veteran serving his country, to his years in public service at the behest of his community. Join us as we visit with Rich as he shares his experiences and explains how they helped mold his character and shape his future.