Connecting Communities: Kalamazoo Earth Day

Battle Creek Unlimited is an economic development non-profit that has aquired 10 acres along the Kalamazoo River that runs through downtown. For decades, this area has been a highly industrial one, with the banks of the river reflecting that. A cement channel was created in 1962 to prevent flooding. The buildings along the channel have been removed, and now the property sits behind a chain link fence. What is the plan for this area? Kris Martin, Urban Planner with Battle Creek Unlimited, sits down with us to explain the plans for the property - including how the river can be naturalized and contribute to habitat and recreational opportunities along the Kalamazoo River.Complete the survey to provide feedback on the future design of the downtown Battle Creek naturalization project: www.battlecreekmichigan.gov (Will be open through Fall 2025)

Monoform Cinema is a group that is bringing a curated, non-commercial film experience to Kalamazoo. The team (Gabe Ybarra, Jaycie McGruder, Steve Remenapp, and Carman Goodrich) remember the days when the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema was operating and people could go to see movies for more than just the day's big blockbusters. From the serious to the humorous, Monoform brings people together and shows films that spark movement, a juxtaposition to the imagery of a couch potato who turns their mind off to consume movies. It is entirely accessible - tickets are a mere $5 - and it is building community in a fantastically surprising way.Attend a Monoform Cinema showing on the second Thursday of each month. For more information visit www.monoformcinema.comUnfortunately there is some static from a faulty microphone cord featured in this episode. Static is present at 11-15 min and 30-34 min.

Residents who follow the page Yes, There Really Is A Kalamazoo Meme Page on Facebook and Instagram frequently comment on the page's original memes saying "This is so true." The page nods to neighborhood inside jokes, winks about local heroes, and waves a big red flag toward nefarious characters. So who are these meme makers? Their names are Joel Crookston and Tyler Dancer - but what is their motivation and inspiration? Joel and Tyler get vulnerable while using humor to keep things light, and explain why it is so important to use that mindset while creating content for the meme page.From the episode:Toxic Action LabTry Googling: "Otsego Story Project"TDancerMusicJoel Oliver CrookstonJoel Oliver Crookston FacebookPure Memeigan

Discover how Kalamazoo Youth Development Network is changing the landscape of youth services in our community. Unlike distant foundations, KYD Net provides hands-on support, valuable assessment tools, and actionable improvement strategies—all at no cost to local programs. What makes their approach so effective? Why do community leaders consider their expertise "priceless"? Join us as three team members from KYD Net reveal their collaborative method for strengthening youth programs and the real-world impact of their work. Learn how this accessible resource is elevating youth development across Kalamazoo and Battle Creek, one program at a time.

Reforest Vine can install a curb garden in one day. Mitch Lettow fills us in on the process and how these tiny gardens impact biodiversity and habitat availability for the smallest creatures.

Stop by the Kalamazoo Valley Museum for an early season tour of their rain gardens. These gardens help keep storm water drains clean, as well as help to keep flood-prone spaces from getting soggy.

Every year, Charlie's P.L.A.C.E. and the Rotary conduct big clean ups in Kalamazoo's Douglass neighborhood and on the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail.

The Edison neighborhood got together for Earth Day to tackle a large dumping site and to plant trees in the space.

Audubon Society of Kalamazoo, Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy, and Wild Ones lead us on a Signs of Spring tour for Earth Day in Upjohn Park. Connecting Communities presents a pod short showcasing the presenters as they discussed the natural habitat of the park with participants of the walk.

Connecting Communities pod short with Mike List, a representative of the Edison Resident Scholars group discussing the cleanup on Earth Day at the Literacy Lane and Albert White Literacy Trail.

The first Fun Run hosted by the Winchell and Oakwood neighborhoods to celebrate Earth Day, and Connecting Communities was there to find out all about it!

Edison neighborhood had a seed planting event and Vine did their annual clean up and celebration in the park.

Children's Nature Playscape has a really fun and engaging Family Fun Day each year to celebrate Earth Day! Meet Nature Nate and Daphne Len Ben (author of Queenie Saves the World).

Ian Stewart joins us on the pod to talk about his trash picking project. This guy went from zero experience to being "passionate about picking up trash." He has accomplished some amazing projects and is definitely shaking things up in Kalamazoo's waste world.

We joined Michigan Waterway Stewards to tackle invasive brush and cleanup trash at two of Kalamazoo's parks along the river, Mayor Riverfront and Verburg Parks. Volunteers were lead by team leads to identify and remove invasive species. The Michigan Waterway Stewards will lead a fall event to continue the project at both parks for further restoration.

The Connecting Communities pod spoke with Building Blocks representatives and neighbors as they worked together on neighborhood cleanups across the city.

Kicking off the Earth Day festivities was a clean up at a lot behind Aldi, on Gull Road. The lot had been used by individuals who were living behind the building. When they left, they were unable to clean the space. TrashLoveKzoo took on the challenge and invited the community to join them!

Jerico is more than just a collection of buildings or businesses in the Edison neighborhood. Jerico is an idea and a way of being. Jerico is an invitation for innovators to create together. When an entrepreneur is looking for something that sounds like office space, but feels like community, they are probably looking for Jerico. If you think that this sounds like I am making silly platitudes to sound deep, I think you will understand better by listening to this conversation with one of Jerico's founders, Krystal Gast. The thing is, after talking to Krystal, you feel inspired. The space that her and Jeb have built (with a little help from their friends) is funky and warm and old. It was built with intention, and their intention mixed with hard work has made something really magical.

With dozens of programs, there is something for everyone at the Portage District Library! Three librarians join us to share a FEW of the ways you can get involved. It's hard to even write a synopsis at this moment because a list of the programs discussed would be too much. Just do yourself a favor and listen to the show! You will feel inspired and motivated to go see what's happening at Portage District Library.

How can changing the way we pay for healthcare improve our communities? Bill Farmer is a longtime organizer and activist for workers's rights. In this episode, he speaks to the overwhelming burden that our current healthcare (or sick-care) system puts on everyone involved. The proposed plan would do more to support health, and spread wealth to all of Michigan's residents. Do you know about the benefits and objections to healthcare reform? Get a crash course in this podcast, then go check out the resources Bill talks about to dig deeper.www.Michigan4singlepayer.orghttps://swmidsa.comwww.Pnhp.org

The rain gardens in the middle of downtown Kalamazoo provide an important service to residents in Kalamazoo County. Tyler Sweet and Megan Osetek, staff at the museum, have joined us to talk about the process of building the gardens, as well share the why behind them. They offer a compelling argument for listeners about why we should be installing more of these low maintenance water filtration systems in our communities and neighborhoods.

Hristina Petrovska and Rachel Bair explain the community classes offered at the VallyHUB, including the esteemed Honorable Harvest Lecture Series. This education center is accessible for lifelong learning, without the need to work towards a degree.https://valleyhub.kvcc.edu/events

Some of the members of the Connecting Communities podcast get together to reflect on their favorite guests and conversations from the first 50 episodes of the show.

Kalamazoo River Watershed Council joins us to reflect on their Kalamazoo River Youth Experience Program that took place over the summer. Representatives from two participating organizations - El Concilio and Kalamazoo Youth Development Network - are also present for the conversation. Doug and Bela share why taking young people on kayaking trips can change the way they look at the river and the environment, and their partners share about how the experience affected and empowered the children and their families. KRWC@kalamazooriver.org https://kalamazooriver.org https://kydnet.org https://www.facebook.com/KYDNetwork/ https://elconciliokzoo.org https://www.facebook.com/ConcilioKzoo/  Ja'Nequa Walker Out Of School Time Program Development Coach Kalamazoo Youth Development Network or KYD Net Jessica Cortes Director of Programs El Concilio Bela Ballez, Outreach Coordinator & Event Planner, Kalamazoo River Watershed Council Doug McLaughlen, Executive Director, Kalamazoo River Watershed Council

Tyler Walker, Outreach and Engagement Specialist for Big Brother Big Sister of Southwest Michigan, joins us to discuss the impact of intergenerational relationships in our community. With Big Brother Big Sister, community members have resources to foster positive relationships that help youth expand their support network. Tyler discusses the positive outcomes for youth and the community overall.

CoHosts David Beans & Joe Byars Guest: Ryan Smith Power to the People! Worker's rights! Is that too idealistic? Does it sound too good to be true? The Southwest Michigan Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) are an organization that works toward a more democratic and equal world. For anyone who is frustrated by the economic, or political status quo, the DSA provides a space to unite and work together.  Ryan Smith, chair of the Southwest Michigan Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), explains what the local chapter of the DSA is accomplishing and how local people can get involved. The SWMI DSA meets at 1pm on the last Sunday of the month at the Edison Neighborhood Association. Volunteer at the Mutual Aid events on Friday evenings, behind Shakespear's Pub https://swmidsa.com https://www.facebook.com/SWMIDSA/

Dr. Turnera Croom is a mobile veterinarian with a heart as big as her medical bag. She goes where her patients need her most, breaking down barriers between pet care and community healing. From providing tender, dignified support during a pet's final moments to offering holistic, chemical-free healthcare solutions, Dr. Croom represents a new breed of veterinary professional who sees each animal as a cherished family member. Her practice is more than a service—it's a calling. By bringing vaccines to local neighborhood centers and mentoring the next generation of compassionate veterinarians, she's creating a ripple effect of care that extends far beyond traditional medical boundaries. Whether comforting a grieving family or helping pets thrive through natural wellness approaches, Dr. Croom is redefining what it means to be a veterinarian in the modern world. Dr. Croom's website: https://drcroom.com Link for the application  for college age and above students who are majoring in Pre-Veterinary, animal science, and agriculture to join Dr. Croom's Telemedicine internship program: Https://bit.ly/4aPoHqb Free Skool community for holistic pet care: https://www.skool.com/holistic-pet-care-future-vet-2292 Information about Not One More Vet: https://nomv.org Join the Thursday Livestream on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrCroomArmyVet

Students combining research and service KAMSC Earthlings - Kate Risley and Sophia Barnard Hosts: Patrick Hershberger and Joe Byars When Kate Risley and Sophia Barnard were juniors at the Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center (KAMSC), they had ambition to expand their environmental club (Earthlings). They join us to discuss their work in community organizing for service, as well as environmental research in conjunction with their studies. https://www.instagram.com/kamscearthlings

Chris Broadbent and Justin Gish spend most of their days considering the potential treasure to be unlocked from people's trash. During this episode they will explain the process of waste when it is reborn - through compost and recycling. Kalamazoo is lucky to have a structure for recycling and compost that is supported by the city government. Justin and Chris are passionate about waste and have visions for the future, to make waste less... well, wasteful. Contact Chris through local 311 gishj@kalamazoocity.org Visit www.kalamazoocity.org for more information about community composting and recycling.

During this episode we will hear from some small businesses who have been impacted by heavy construction in Kalamazoo. They offer their perspectives for you to consider the importance of small businesses and the role of the community and government to keep Kalamazoo a place where small businesses can survive and contribute. Guests: Erin Schultz, Schultz's Treat Street Eileen Pawlicki, Love Muffins Maria Brennan, Victorian Bakery Hosts: Dee Chauvin & Joe Byars

Dive into this riveting episode where we recorded on-site with Maya James, a Kalamazoo artist who has been designing and leading the installation of a literacy lane in downtown Kalamazoo's Edison Neighborhood. Maya discusses how this mural, although it is still actively being installed, has already discouraged dumping and crime, and has encouraged community engagement and restoration of nature in the area. Kalamazoo Literary Council https://kalamazooliteracy.org Maya James' Art www.mayamjjames.weebly.com

Christina Dorett joins Connecting Communities to discuss the work of the service group KUDOS. They are seeking volunteers to join them to bridge the gap between neighborhoods that have been impacted by systemic racism. Their group seeks to connect communities in a literal sense, by bringing people together who might never meet otherwise. Christina is very frank about the goal of finding a way to do anti-racism work (as opposed to only reading or discussing it), as well as the challenges and benefits of coordinating a volunteer day of service. October 4 - this year's date Link to Kalamazoo racism doc, Ryan smith redlining - how fdr segregated Kalamazoo  Kudoskzoo@gmail.com

Meet Issac, Ian, and Payton, team members at Open Roads in Kalamazoo (www.openroadsbike.org). At Open Roads we engage and empower youth through bicycles to learn practical life skills for their future. The bicycle is not just a thing: it is a symbol- a symbol of independence, of freedom, of autonomy, and of joy. Youth Bike Repair: Thursdays 2-6pm Adult Bike Repair: Fridays 2-6pm Co-Hosts: Patrick Hershberger & David Benac

Gwen and her grandson, Steph Moore, sit down to discuss the history and creation of the community organization, Mothers of Hope. Both Gwen and Steph have been supporting families in Kalamazoo who have been impacted by substance use. The myriad of programs and efforts they have coordinated through Mothers of Hope shows there is not just one way to support the recovery community. By connecting resources in Kalamazoo to their recovery community, Mothers of Hope are able to meet many more needs. Join the Mothers of Hope 5th Annual Recovery Walk! August 3, 2024 at 10am. Start at the Northside Association for Community Development parking lot, on Park street. www.mothers-of-hope.com mothersofhope1@gmail.com stephmoore@gmail.com Black Voters Matter on all social media.

Joy and Aerick opened a dance/yoga/art studio in Kalamazoo that would operate on the values they felt in their souls and practiced daily. Their philosophy has nurtured a diverse and welcoming space for people to experience dance and artistic movement, regardless of age, ability, class, or gender expression. Joy's experience with the healing power of movement has allowed her to teach that power to others, and in this conversation, Joy and Aerick describe the impact this work has had on the community and themselves. YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwBXJrNH7kFvezZAZMS6NWw Website https://joyloloxola.wixsite.com/movewithjoy

Meet Taylor Van Winkle! They are an addition to Kalamazoo County Government, in a brand new role: the Sustainability Coordinator for the County. As a transplant from Kansas, Taylor can speak about the allure that Michigan holds, and what makes it a special place.  Additionally, Taylor speaks to the status of the county sustainability plan, and how residents can have their concerns and priorities be a part of the plan. Host: Bionca Stewart

Host: Patrick Hershberger and David Benac Jackie Mitchell is someone who sees a problem and inserts herself because she knows that a situation can only get better when people are together trying to help. She invested in areas of Kalamazoo that are divested in and avoided, and she is making them a place of positivity, gathering, and health.  Facebook Uxi4u.com

If anyone knows about connecting people and communities, it is Pam Coffey. She runs a house for women who are starting their lives over. Healthy House currently houses 8 women, who could be coming from any walk of life, with any belief system. The women can stay as long as they need to, while they are resetting their lives and goals. Within this little community, there is a lot to learn about being there for each other and creating a place of peace for oneself.  Join Health House on June 14, from 5:30-7:30pm for Seeds of Joy! Amazon Wishlist and Donations: https://www.healthyhouseforwomen.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/healthyhouse4women

“Playgrounds are built but playscape are planted.” The Children's Nature Playscape is a place for all children and families to play, explore, grow, and restore in downtown Kalamazoo. Join this episode for stories about how this space give young and old a space to learn, connect, and center themselves, in the most natural way. https://www.kalamazooplayscape.org On Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @kalamazooplayscape

Members of the Asylum Lake Preserve Association join the podcast to discuss the history of the preserve, the nature found inside of it, and the significance this space has to the human and ecological community. Guests: John Kreuzer and Lauri Holmes Hosts: Sharon Dever and Patrick Hershberger

Kleinstuck Preserve is a large preserve that is centrally located in Kalamazoo with an incredibly diverse ecosystem of plants and animals. In 2019, a parcel adjacent to the preserve went on the market. The volunteer board members held a community meeting to see if residents of Kalamazoo found value in making this addition to Kleinstuck. Can these volunteers raise $700,000 in time to purchase the forest before a developer picks up the beautiful property? Our guests share an incredible story of community organizing, about a place that is cherished by all who visit. Learn more about the important ecosystem of Kleinstuck as well.

Chubby Goat Acres Why did the chicken cross the road? It was definitely to get to Chubby Goat Acres! Chubby Goat Acres is a farm animal sanctuary in southwestern Michigan. The founder, Chris Kreutz, believes that farm animals should be able to live long, happy lives, and are not to be valued by the services they provide to humans. Sounds different? Listen in to the episode to learn more about the ideas behind the sanctuary and how you can help their mission. Guests on this episode: Chris Kreutz, Founder and Executive Director, Chubby Goat Acres Jeanne Carter, Barn Manager, Chubby Goat Acres Iris Potter, Volunteer, Chubby Goat Acres

He's back! Stephen Dupuie, director of the Edison Neighborhood Association will update us on what has been going on with the urban gardening program, the community toolbox, and what new resident-led initiatives to look forward to in 2024! Be sure to listen, then join Edison neighborhood on April 20, 2024 for Earth Day Celebration and garden bed prep day! For more information, visit www.kalamazooearthday.com

They are ready to celebrate! From Pints and Plants meet ups, to garden tours they are making so many birthday plans where you can hang out with these folks this year. There is a reason why this group is so popular. Get a taste of the fun, humor, and generosity of the Kalamazoo Area Wild Ones in this conversation with members of their Executive Community, Noel Ocen, Jessica Hagen, Mike Weis, and Quyen Edwards. YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@kalamazooareawildones3344 Website: https://kalamazoo.wildones.org FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/KalamazooAreaWildOnes Dropseed Native Gardens FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089809113823

Hosts:  Joe Byars and David Benac Building Blocks is a neighborhood revitalization organization that uses resident energy, ideas and people-power to improve neighborhoods in Kalamazoo. From beautification to house safety projects, Building Blocks provides organizers and funding to these neighborhoods and the neighborhoods get back more than just the physical improvements, they have an improved environment where they are closer in relationship with their neighbors. Join David and Joe in conversation with Building Blocks Executive Director, Katie McPherson, and staffer Emily Brittain, to learn more about this community building organization. Bbkazoo.org

Remi Harrington and Katie Pearson are both urban farmers in Kalamazoo. In this episode they discuss the meaning and importance of food sovereignty and food justice. Learn more about the challenges that small farmers are faced with, and how those challenges are compounded when those farmers face racism, or sexism. The future of food can be bright! - Especially with farmers like Remi and Katie paving the way. Hosts: Patrick Hershberger and Bionca Stewart

It is COLD outside! Especially if you live in an older house, you can spend a frustrating amount of time, money, and resources on trying to address that. You may have even gotten to the point of considering major construction or a new build. But construction and demolition is one of the largest contributors to waste globally. Mark Lee brings another perspective to tackling that ongoing stressor, while being environmentally responsible. Mark's commitment to the environment is part of the business model of his company, Better World Builders. 

Audubon Society of Kalamazoo is one of the longest running naturalist groups in Kalamazoo. Gail Walter and Donna Keller are members of the Society and share information about the benefits and joys of engaging with birds in our communities. Also, hear about Kalamazoo's most special residents, the peregrine falcons.  Peregrine Falcon Cam Website Kalamazoo Audubon website Ebird app Merlin app

Daniel Smith and Said Abubakr stand in peaceful protest in downtown Kalamazoo every Sunday afternoon. They stand with a group of people called KNOW, Kalamazoo Nonviolent Opponents of War.  War has devastating impacts on our environments, as well as on our connection to other human beings. The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine is a book authored by New Historian Ilan Pappé https://youtu.be/Hd7bbdAoAUA?si=W0TeOEMcUybuttOJ Kzoo4peace.org

This episode had some sound interference from 18 min 30 seconds to 20 min 22 sec. The Kalamazoo River Watershed Council uses science and the wonder of nature to benefit the Kalamazoo River. Their work impacts residents, those who recreate, animals, and policy makers. Join Dr. Doug McLaughlin, Executive Director, and Kenneth Kornheiser, board member to discuss the work that the council does. https://kalamazooriver.org https://www.facebook.com/kalamazooriver/

Representatives from the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians (Gun Lake Tribe) join our hosts today talk about current work that is being done to connect communities in in the area with the land, the past, and each other. The work that the Gun Lake Tribe is doing to protect this land is something you will want to find out more about! Guests in this episode: Virginia Sprague-Vanderband, Tribal Council Member John Shagonaby, Government Affairs Officer Elizabeth Binoniemi-Smith, Environmental Director Correction: In the episode, it is said that half the Gun Lake Tribe Members are elders. It is actually that about half the tribe are youth; not elders. Learn more: https://gunlaketribe-nsn.gov/departments/administration/language-culture/food-sovereignty/