The HEART of South Haven

Kanokla has been part of South Haven since 1954, and through the years, we’ve become more than just the local telecommunications provider. We love showing up for community events, lending a hand, and finding ways to give back. The new mural is just another way we’re celebrating our pride in South Haven and the people who make it home.

Just west of Highway 81, a bright mural now covers the east side of the Kanokla Central Offices building, greeting everyone who passes through town. It’s more than paint on a wall; it’s a celebration of South Haven’s history, creativity, and community pride. The artwork was completed just in time for the 109th South Haven Fair, giving fairgoers the first chance to see what has quickly become a new town favorite.

The idea for the mural took shape early in 2025 when we met with the founders of the Heart of South Haven Community Foundation, Sadie Dugan, Kayla Betzen, and Jordan Baylock, to discuss transforming Kanokla's central office buildings at the Highway 81 intersection into a community art piece. The idea quickly caught on, and soon after, Kanokla employees rolled up their sleeves to clean, repair, and prime the facade in preparation for the artists.

The mural was truly a community effort. Guided by local artist Arlene Wilson, South Haven’s longtime art teacher, the design came together through a shared vision that blended creativity, teamwork, and hometown spirit. The Heart of South Haven Community Foundation founders and their families devoted their time and talents to bringing the project to life. With paintbrushes in hand, they transformed a blank wall into a vibrant story of South Haven’s history, people, and pride. Inspired by the generational buffalo farm south of town, the mural also captures the rolling hills and valleys that surround our community, and the heart in the sky symbolizes the beauty, strength, and shared values that unite South Haven. The result is a stunning work of art that truly reflects the heart of the community and the many hands that helped create it.

The founders of The Heart of South Haven Community Foundation, shared how meaningful the project has been for everyone involved. Sadie Dugan said “All the community involvement and collaboration on making the vision of the mural a reality is something really magical. It feels really good to have the support of businesses like Kanokla in helping our foundation fulfill our mission statement.”

When the fair arrived, the mural was ready to meet its audience. Families stopped to take photos, children pointed out their favorite details, and longtime residents smiled, remembering how much South Haven has grown and changed while still keeping its small-town heart. Many shared their admiration for the design and the way it perfectly captured the spirit of the town.

We invite everyone to follow The Heart of South Haven Community Foundation on Facebook, where we share updates on ongoing projects, upcoming events, and ways to get involved. General donations are always appreciated, and each project or event often has specific needs, from materials to volunteer time, that community members can help fulfill.

Most recently, The Heart of South Haven Community Foundation has been hard at work designing, fabricating, and installing two “Welcome to South Haven” signs. In early October, they surrounded the signs with planter bricks and colorful mums, which have already received wonderful feedback from community members. They have one final sign left to install on the west side of town, and are excited to continue building projects that beautify and strengthen our community.

At Kanokla, we show up and take pride in partnering with the communities we serve. Projects like this remind us that when neighbors come together, great things happen. Whether it’s through art, connectivity, or collaboration, we’re here to play a small part in helping our local communities grow and thrive.