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How Downtown Preservation Drives Economic Growth with Chad Banks

Release Date: 09/28/2023

The Women Who Propelled Theodore Roosevelt to the White House: Edward O’Keefe

Winds Of Change

I wanted to tell a story that I felt had been forgotten by time, that these women in Theodore Roosevelt's life were consequential in our American history. - Edward O'Keefe In this episode of the Winds of Change podcast, author Edward O'Keefe takes you on a journey through the life of Theodore Roosevelt, offering a fresh perspective on the influential women who shaped the former president's journey. O'Keefe shares the extensive research process behind his book, "The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt: The Women Who Created a President," providing captivating stories and historical insights that shed...

Uncovering Hidden Outlaw Histories with Jackie Dorothy

Winds Of Change

"Our history is for our future." - Jackie Dorothy "Everyone has a story. You just sometimes have to dig to find the interesting nuggets." - Jackie Dorothy Hey there, history enthusiasts! Get ready to enjoy the unexpected twists and turns of outlaw history and family legends. Join me as we discover the world of outlaws, hidden histories and legends. We're not just talking about the notorious outlaws you've heard of; we're learning about surprising stories and historical figures. There were many opportunities for the daring and enterprising businessmen – the cattlemen,...

Embracing Identity: Aiden Thomas on Writing Trans and Latinx Characters

Winds Of Change

My focus is always on my readers and the people who are impacted by not having those stories. So it's young folks and it's folks who are trans and queer and who are, you know, marginalized or brown, black, Bipoc. - Aiden Thomas My special guest is Aiden Thomas Aiden Thomas is a New York Times bestselling author and a prominent figure in young adult literature. Their expertise lies in crafting narratives that authentically represent the intersection of gender identity and cultural diversity. Aiden's notable work, particularly the acclaimed novel "Cemetery Boys," has garnered widespread acclaim...

Exploring the Allure of Cowboy Culture and Identity In Wyoming

Winds Of Change

I really long to, through my work, develop the sense that culture is everywhere. And you get to celebrate yourself through art and your people through art and your place through art. And that is what it's all about. You don't have to go somewhere else for that. It's already here. It's already with us. - Grace Cannon Are you intrigued by the impact of cowboy culture and the Wyoming identity? Do you embrace a certain cowboy lifestyle to connect with your roots, or feel disconnected and unsure of its authenticity? If you've grappled with the stereotypes and myths surrounding the cowboy identity?...

Rural Wyoming Museums: Preserving Heritage & History

Winds Of Change

Our mission is to cultivate a rich educational space for the diverse international community served by and rooted in the American western legacy of Cheyenne Frontier Days. - Morgan Marks Just because you aren't the president of the United States or not someone important in the state doesn't mean your history isn't important. It built this state, it built this community, and it's a legacy for the rest of the people who come after us. - Karina Ike It's really helpful for us in our research and in figuring out different histories. And then it's also an important thing to be able to hear the...

Rod Miller: The Constant Force of Change in the Cowboy State

Winds Of Change

The Constant Force of Change in the Cowboy State “The economic profile of Wyoming will change like everything else in the state has changed, and it will not be because of things we have done as Wyomingites. The economic life of Wyoming will change because of the marketplace, because of risk cap being put to work in Wyoming and returning a reward.” - Rod Miller Hey, Wyoming residents! Ever wondered what a columnist born into a ranching family since 1867 has to say about change and identity in Wyoming? We unravel some informative insights of columnist Rod Miller. Listen to his...

Golden Eagles in the Changing American West with filmmaker David Rohm

Winds Of Change

When species are in decline, there's a reason they're in decline. And sometimes it's not human cause, sometimes it's another cause. And through our films, if we can inspire people to care or maybe take a look at this a little different, we can save many species, even our own. - David Rohm In this episode of Winds of Change, filmmaker David Rohm provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by golden eagles in the changing American West. As one of the founders of Wild Excellence Films, specializing in bird behavior and conservation, Rohm's expertise and dedication to wildlife...

Inviting You to Dig In: The Impact of Archaeology and Public Engagement

Winds Of Change

"Archaeology is just one avenue of trying to understand the human experience and finding out how we are alike, in what ways we are different. It's a real intellectual challenge, and that challenge is something I really enjoy engaging in." - Bruce Bradley Have you ever wondered about the hidden stories buried beneath the surface? The ancient mysteries waiting to be uncovered? Well, in our latest episode of Winds Of Change, we delved into the fascinating world of archaeology and the secrets it holds. We had the pleasure of speaking with archaeology experts George Zeimens and Dr. Bruce Bradley,...

The Power of Theater: Inspiring Civic Engagement with Anne Mason

Winds Of Change

"Theater is not just about making fun things with like-minded people; it's about challenging ourselves to witness other perspectives and celebrate the shared qualities of humanity." - Anne Mason Discover the power of theater to ignite dialogue and inspire change! In this episode of Winds of Change, hosted by Emy DiGrappa, you'll get to hear from Anne Mason, the producing artistic director of Relative Theatrics in Laramie, Wyoming. Anne and Emy dive into the power of theater as a platform for dialogue and civic engagement. They discuss how Relative Theatrics uses thought-provoking plays to...

Revolutionizing the Symphony: William Intriligator on Engaging New Audiences

Winds Of Change

“The whole idea of orchestral music being something that people come back to time and again to become enriched and inspired and entertained.” -William Intriligator In the world of music, a symphony orchestra holds the power to transport us to extraordinary realms of emotion and wonder. But what if I told you that behind the captivating melodies and harmonies lies an unexpected twist that forever changed the course of one man's life? Picture this: a young graduate student, eager to explore the depths of musical expression, crosses paths with a mentor who unknowingly ignites a flame within...

More Episodes

Have you heard these common myths about the importance of downtowns and cultural centers in community preservation? Myth #1: Downtown revitalization is only for big cities. Myth #2: Cultural centers are just for entertainment and not essential for the community. Myth #3: Investing in downtown revitalization is a waste of resources. In this episode, our guest Chad Banks sheds light on the significance of downtowns and cultural centers in community preservation.

Host Emy DiGrappa and co-host Lucas Fralick engage in conversation with Chad Banks, Director, Rock Springs Main Street/Urban Renewal Agency. They discuss the critical role of downtowns and cultural centers in community preservation and economic growth. The episode highlights the significance of historic preservation in Wyoming, where funds are limited. Chad Banks shares the inspiring story of the restoration of the Wyoming capital, which faced resistance but ultimately preserved the building's beauty and history. Chad emphasizes the need for community-driven initiatives and partnerships between local governments, Main Street programs, nonprofits, and various agencies.

Chad Banks, a dedicated Rock Springs resident, whose roots in the town trace back to five generations, vividly shared his journey of discovering the importance and need for preserving downtowns and cultural centers. It all began with a casual trip to a small town in Utah for his daughter's dance competition. What caught his attention was the town's blandness, its lack of unique identity, a stark contrast to the vibrant and historic downtowns he was familiar with. This experience sparked a realization in Chad. He saw how these downtowns, with their historic buildings and unique stories, were the pulse of the community, providing a sense of identity and continuity. Chad took this realization back to Rock Springs and into his role with the city's Main Street program, where he has since worked to reinvigorate the downtown area, preserve its rich history, and enhance its unique identity.

Links:

www.Thinkwy.org
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Resources:

Explore the Main Street program and its revitalization programs for locally owned, locally driven prosperity.
Learn about the Smithsonian Sparks exhibit, Spark Places of Innovation, which highlights innovation in rural America.
Stay tuned to learn more about the locations around Wyoming that will host the Sparks exhibit.
Explore the Main Street program and its revitalization programs for locally owned, locally driven prosperity.
Stay tuned to learn more about the locations around Wyoming that will host the Sparks exhibit.
Encourage children and adults to learn about and appreciate the history and heritage of their communities.
Contact the Main Street Urban Renewal Agency for information on downtown development and revitalization programs.
Support local businesses and entrepreneurs by shopping and dining in downtown districts.
Encourage children and adults to learn about and appreciate the history and heritage of their communities.

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