In this episode of Recreation Rendezvous, we sit down with Marissa Calabrese, Natural Resource Education Specialist. Marissa works closely with young people to spark curiosity about the outdoors, teaching them how nature, parks, and community connect.

She shares what it’s like to introduce kids to new experiences in local parks, why hands-on learning matters, and how these moments shape future stewards of our natural resources.

In this episode of Recreation Rendezvous, we sit down with Dr. Julie Knapp, Clinical Assistant Professor at Indiana University’s School of Public Health. Dr. Knapp shares her journey into the field and offers insight into how students and young professionals can build a meaningful career in parks and recreation.

See our open positions here: https://bloomington.in.gov/parks/employment

In this week’s Recreation Rendezvous, we talk with City Council At-Large Representative Isak Asare. He dives into what makes Bloomington’s parks special and shares the most common feedback he hears from residents about them.

In this week’s Recreation Rendezvous, we talk with Tracy Bruce of Scholars Inn Bakehouse, a longtime Bloomington Farmers’ Market vendor. Tracy shares the story behind the bakery, what inspires their fresh-baked breads, and how they’ve become a staple for market visitors.

Amber Racoma of Mama Duke’s Hawaiian BBQ shares how her family's recipes, heritage, and heart made their way to the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market.

Join us as we follow Haskell Smith, our Urban Forester through a typical day managing tree health, responding to community concerns, and helping shape the city’s natural landscape. Discover what it takes to care for the urban forest.

Invasive species threaten the health of our community. In this episode of Recreation Rendezvous, Urban Forester Haskell Smith explains what’s at stake, how to spot the warning signs, and what you can do to help protect our urban forest.

We sat down with Banneker Camp campers Aella, Tanae, and Tiona to talk about their favorite parts of camp, what they love about our parks, and, of course, their favorite desserts. A fun, lighthearted conversation straight from the voices of our community’s youth.

In this Recreation Rendezvous episode, Caleb Poer leads a gentle breathing meditation designed to help you reset and recenter. You’ll be guided through a few simple but powerful techniques. Whether you’re in motion or at rest, this is your reminder to come back to your breath.

In this episode of Recreation Rendezvous, our Director of Operations , Rebecca Swift, joins us for an in-depth conversation about the ongoing transformation at Building Trades Park in Bloomington.

Learn more about the Building Trades Park Masterplan visit our website: https://bloomington.in.gov/news/2024/05/22/5947