#52. Alex Stillman's Community Chronicles: From San Francisco's Streets to Arcata's Historic Heartbeat

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Prepare to be captivated by the inspiring journey of Alex Stillman as she transitions from the bustling streets of San Francisco to the serene charm of Arcata, California. In this episode, Alex recounts her early days in retail and the pivotal decision to pursue higher education, driven by her family's academic legacy. From her initial impression of the peaceful Arcata Plaza in the 1970s to her passionate entry into local politics, you'll learn how a suggestion from a professor sparked a lifelong commitment to community involvement. Discover the story behind the "Stop at Four" campaign and the community's fight against freeway expansion, which marked the beginning of Alex's influential role in shaping Arcata.
Dive into the heart of historic preservation with Alex as she shares the transformative projects that have preserved Arcata's unique charm. Hear about the adaptation of Celebration Hall, the evolution of Redwood Park, and community-driven initiatives like the Marsh Project and the Phillips House Museum restoration. Through Alex's eyes, we see the delicate balance between maintaining historical authenticity and meeting modern standards, showcasing her dedication to protecting Arcata's heritage. The contributions of individuals like Frank Klopp and the impact of programs like CETA underscore the collaborative efforts that have defined the town's development.
Finally, explore the vibrant community life in Arcata and the significant role of Cal Poly Humboldt in its evolution. Alex reflects on her extensive involvement with the Arcata City Council and various local organizations, providing insights into recent developments like the Main Street Program and the Gateway project. Imagine a perfect day in Arcata, from tranquil trail walks to city planning discussions, and gain a glimpse of the town's future growth. This episode offers a rich tapestry of stories, achievements, and visions, making it essential listening for anyone interested in small-town dynamics and community development.

Ever wonder how a high school dropout becomes a leading voice in local journalism? Meet Hank Sims, the editor of the Lost Coast Outpost, who takes us through his transformative journey from the alternative print scene of Mendocino County to shaping the media landscape in Humboldt County. We kick things off with lighthearted dad jokes and musings about the unpredictable weather before diving into Hank’s fascinating backstory, including his diverse educational path through Humboldt State, San Francisco State, and UC Berkeley. Along the way, Hank shares personal stories about raising a family in Humboldt and why this vibrant region captured his heart.
As the conversation unfolds, Hank provides an insider's look at the Lost Coast Outpost, a digital newspaper that's become indispensable to the community. He reveals how it all started with just a computer and a server and evolved into a media powerhouse integrated with local radio stations. Tackling the challenges and opportunities of digital journalism, Hank emphasizes the Outpost’s mission to document the daily life of Humboldt County and maintain journalistic integrity in an era dominated by social media giants. With tales of internet trolls and the struggle for meaningful engagement, Hank underscores the crucial role of local journalism in preserving community narratives.
From dining gems and local culture to the broader challenges of promoting Humboldt amidst a changing economic landscape, our discu...

فصول

1. Small Town Arcata (00:00:00)

2. Preserving Arcata's Historic Buildings (00:11:36)

3. Arcata's Evolution and Community Involvement (00:19:13)

4. Revitalizing Downtown Arcata's Main Street (00:32:42)

5. A Day in Arcata (00:43:37)