Our final Ad Astra Radio of the school year presents stories of the changes a college community faces as it prepares for summertime. From graduation, to summer sports, to the buildings we inhabit.
When you think of the season that most represents change, chances are fall comes to mind first. The leaves turn, the weather gets cold, heck – the name is even an action verb. But in a place like Lawrence, summer is every bit as much a time of change. The town empties out as students head home for the summer, graduates head off to meet their futures, and those who stay enjoy some well-earned time off.
On our final episode of the year, we present stories about summer change – both real and symbolic.
Download the full episode, or scroll down for individual stories.
The Graduates
Reporter Beth Fentress just completed her freshman year at KU. But as she begins her college career, others are finishing theirs. She sat down with two friends – Yasi and Elise – to talk about their impending graduations and gain a little perspective on what awaits her in a few years.
Kickball in Kansas
The theme of this episode may be change, but nostalgia will always be a major aspect of summer. And every year the Kaw Valley Kickball League offers the people of Lawrence a way to relive those lost moments of childhood. Incoming News Director Brendan Dzwierzynski has the story.
Homogenization 101 – Development in College Communities
Outgoing News Director Scott Ross has lived in college communities for almost eleven years. In that time he’s gotten to see all the unique, charming and bizarre things that make these towns special – as well as the changes that threaten to make them just like anywhere else. In his final Ad Astra Story, he talks to three people involved in historic preservation and responsible development about the effort to keep college towns what they are. You can continue to follow Scott’s work, including the Dancing Bear Variety Hour, at his website: The Young Learners Guide to American Wildlife.
Written by Scott Ross. Tune into Ad Astra Radio the second and fourth Thursday of every month at 7pm on KJHK 90.7fm. Thanks for listening, Lawrence. It’s been a great year!