A Small Town in Michigan

Jim Lawson has created parody lyrics for almost one hundred songs in 2020 including a stretch of 60 straight days of one per day between April and June.  We talk to Jim to find out why and how he did this and listen to him sing a few of the songs.

They're all here for different reasons. Some made a concerted choice to follow a different path. Some had dreams of what life could be, and traditional school got in the way. Still others needed a second chance, or an opportunity to move at their own pace. For most Renaissance High School students, a combination of these things is true. Our students are driving an educational revolution. They learn at the time, place, path, and pace that enable them to be successful. They've discovered their potential and built their dreams. Now they've also found the way to get there.  (Originally published August 2019)

Tracy Bedford and Evan Smale from the Clarkston-Independence District Library have a short discussion of the controversy over the book "American Dirt"  and how children's literature is actually leading the way in increasing opportunities for writers from underrepresented groups.

Executive Director, Amy Baker and Program Director, Hank Passmore tell us about the five week summer day camp in the Clarkston area designed for kids and adults with special needs.

This is the second half of our discussion with Dr. Bruce Mercado and Kathy Novak.

This time we talk to local dentist, Dr. Bruce Mercado and his Business Manager, Kathy Novak.  Dr. Mercado has been a dentist in Clarkston for 35 years and has been involved with the beginnings of many Clarkston organizations like Chamber of Commerce, Optimist Club, Soccer league, Community Awards, and the successful hand-off of the Clarkston July 4th Parade to new sponsoring organizations.  When there is a need in the community both Bruce and Kathy are there to say, "I'll do it". 

While shooting video and volunteering where I live, I realized there are many great people working hard at their jobs or volunteering  that are making their community a better place everyday.   I'm sure this is true is communities all over the country.  We will be presenting a few of these people in the Clarkston, Michigan area.  Hopefully, their stories and experiences will inspire listeners to do the same where they live.