Connections Radio

Laurie talks with Fulbright Fellow recipient Laura Migliorino today about how art can make a difference in life.

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit Rick’s former Pacific School of Religion colleague, Reverend Steve Garnaas-Holmes—who, among other United Methodist ministry pursuits, performed all over the country with The Montana Logging and Ballet Company. It’s just one extension of his longtime experience as a composer, musician, actor, comedian, and poet. Last year April 27, 2024, our discussion about art and spirituality benefited from his years of performances zany and beautiful—often at the same time—with his years of perspective both circumspect and deep. This time we go deeper, including what we might do to survive trying times. – www.U...

Continuing our series on “Library Connections,” Laurie Fitz joins co-hosts Sally and Susan from the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA)—the largest of MN’s regional library systems with more than 100 library locations across the greater Twin Cities area. We include previews on their holiday programming, their highly-used Libby app (www.Libbyapp.com), recommended recent books, and their metro-wide “Winter Reads” adult reading program—coming January and February. We also feature library staff, with: Paula LaFrenierre, Adult Services Coordinator from Scott County Library / Kelsey Johnson-Kaiser, Youth and Families Services Manager from Saint Paul Library / Jessica Schenk, Program Coordinator from Carver County Librar...

Co-hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo join climate scientist, author, artist, and mother, Anna Farro Henderson, PhD, to discuss her recently launched book, “Core Samples: A Climate Scientist’s Experiments in Politics and Motherhood” (2024, University of Minnesota Press). After our 10/5/24 broadcast, hear this part 2 of our wide-ranging, fun discussions on the fascinating yet essential intersections of science, politics, parenting, and art: “Using Our Stories to Support Action on Climate Change.” – www.AnnaFarroHenderson.com • www.upress.umn.edu/9781517

Laurie Fitz is joined by co-hosts Sally and Susan from the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA)—the largest of MN’s regional library systems with more than 100 library locations across the greater Twin Cities area. Hear about their great “smARTpass” program—its origins and regional arts partners with guests from Walking Shadow Theatre Company, American Swedish Institute, University of MN Dept. of Theatre Arts & Dance, and First Avenue & 7th St. Entry club properties—often including free tickets! – This 5-part MELSA series is 2nd Saturdays of the remaining months this year. – smARTpass.melsa.org •

Hosts Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with musician Libby McLaren—singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, performer, and music teacher (Rick met her long ago as they each performed at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park Bandshell). We hear some of her most recent album with partner Robin Flower, “One Plus One”—and discuss her deep and wide history and future of musical connections. – www.LibbyMclaren.com • www.FlowerandMclaren.com • 

Laurie Fitz interviews Jeffrey Morris, a black director based here the Twin Cities. Jeffrey will be part of or the Twin Cities Film Festival discussion on two documentaries in production. Laurie and Jeffrey explore his take on the future and our collective opportunity to choose hope and face challenges with respect, dignity and strong moral fiber. By looking back at the science fiction of the 60’s – 70’s there are lessons to be learned in moving forward. Jeffry was inspired by Star Trek, Space: 1999 and others, and he is touching a nerve with his thoughts on space exploration in the future...

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo sit with Joan Deming and Jes Ahlemeier, who reflect on their time volunteering in Palestine—working with Tent of Nations—contributing toward peace and healing in a war-torn region. Hear more about their experiences of sacred grounds, including foundations of justice and peace. – www.TentofNations.com • https://fotonna.org

Laurie Fitz is joined by co-hosts Sally and Susan from the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA)—the largest of MN’s regional library systems with more than 100 library locations across the greater Twin Cities area. Hear about this month’s “Teentober,” including Alyssa Stevenski from Ramsey County Library Youth Services. Then hear about MELSA’s table at the Twin Cities Book Festival, 10/19, including guest authors Andrea Christenson and Joe Field. – This 5-part MELSA series is 2nd Saturdays of the remaining months this year. – www.MELSA.org •