COMMUNITY NEWS & VIEWS - Personal Opinion & View Points

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded May 17, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guest Kim Norton of Confections by Kim.

First aired on 5/17/2013 by Reynolds, A.

First aired on 5/13/2013 by Poinsett, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded May 10, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guests: Russ Knopp to promote the Traverse City Senior Expo. Les Dalgliesh musician and author of Fallen Idyll.

First aired on 5/10/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by Jacob Wheeler, founding editor of the Glen Arbor Sun, Pat Sullivan, investigative reporter of the Northern Express and Dennis Mansfield, editor of the Kalkaska Leader. The four regional journalists report on a wide range of topics- an unidentified body discovered in Grand Traverse County, follow-up on the Grayling high school golf team fatal crash, sequester effects at Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore and more. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 5/9/2013 by Froehlich, B.

Missy Carson Smith talks with Kimberli about being a Gun Safe Mom. With gun safety at the forefront of national politics, and stories of gun tragedies appearing almost daily in the news, Missy advocates common sense communication and action in households that have guns. It's a mission with a very personal meaning for her. Find out more in this edition of IN FOCUS.

First aired on 5/6/2013 by Poinsett, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded May 3, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guests: Jan Dalton, director and David Dennison, cast member in the Old Town Playhouse production: An Ideal Husband. Also, Amy Lynn Spitzley, author of Scrapbook of my Revolution.

First aired on 5/3/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by Mike Misico, Sports Editor of the Kalkaska Leader and James Cook, Sports Writer for the Traverse City Record Eagle. The trio discuss the impact on Grayling and high school sports communities of the tragic traffic accident which involved the Grayling High School golf team among others. In the second part of the program the guys let loose with rapid fire - NFL draft reactions, Red Wings NHL playoff predictions and the Detroit Tigers spring start. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 5/2/2013 by Froehlich, B.

I. National Speaker: Linda Harvey (President of www.MissionAmerica.com ). This starts with a challenging short introduction by Peter LaBarbera, President of Americans for Truth about Homosexuality. Then Linda shares about GLSEN’s assault on our children in the Public Schools, and how she said: … I finally opened my narrow rigid little liberal mind, and got more information, not less, I changed my mind about this. And when I started looking about what’s happening in the schools … I GOT REALLY MAD! And I decided that I was going to do something. It began to occur to me this was CHILD MANIPULATION and CHILD ABUSE. II. Local Northwest Michigan Speaker: Bill Wiesner (TCFamily.org), during the first 2 and last 13 minutes, shares: (1) Concerns at the March 19th TCAPS Bond Proposal Review Public Comment Meeting about the promotion of homosexuality to the children causing great concern to many parents – he was asked to stop speaking before finishing. (2) Pastor Peter Moon from Harbor Light Christian Center shared his concerns at the March 20th meeting. (3) Concerns over the Friday April 19th GLSEN sponsored “Day of Silence”. (4) My long response to Dr. David Pilgrim’s (from our Wk 10 Show) concerns over my YouTube informal debate with him. (5) Dr. Scott Lively shows how Sexual Orientation Regulations (SORs) act like festering and open SORES, and like SWORDS used against us. (6) Shine your light in the darkness by watching: (A) FBI: Homosexuality, and (B) The Best of the Truth Academy about Homosexuality – and sharing this with teachers and school board members. (7) We will be at the entrance to Northwestern Michigan College on May 19th with our large Truth Academy about Homosexuality sign to display to the 10,000 attendees to the NMC Barbecue picnic.

First aired on 4/30/2013 by Wiesner, B.

This conversation begins a series of discussions with Bob Russell Executive Producer of iCR and leader in our regions resilience work. Bob and Dave focus on the single biggest breakdown in our community that is impeding other critical resilience developments: the breakdown in the governance process. Compromise is essential to a democratic and effective outcome of decision making.

First aired on 4/29/2013 by Barrons, D.

Karen Schmidt joins Kimberli to talk about progress on an exciting botanic garden planned for the historic State Hospital parkland. Now in a unique partnership with the Traverse City / Garfield Township Recreational Authority, the nonprofit Botanic Garden of NW Michigan has worked for 13 years toward creating a magnificent and inspiring natural park in our community.

First aired on 4/29/2013 by Poinsett, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded April 26, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guests: Author Bill O. Smith and personal trainer Beyleon Alejandro.

First aired on 4/26/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by Vanessa Fayz from 9&10 News, and Jeremy McBain from Petoskey News-Review. The group discuss the media's coverage of the Boston Marathon bombings. Where does the blame lie when bad information gets reported. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 4/25/2013 by Froehlich, B.

Covering an amazing 1000 square miles of northwest Lower Michigan, the Watershed Center manages a wide range of projects to protect, preserve, and restore the vast Grand Traverse Bay watershed. Executive Director Andy Knott joins Kimberli to explain the value of this extraordinary natural resource, and some of the projects they manage to make sure it will remain pristine for generations to come. Very interesting!

First aired on 4/22/2013 by Poinsett, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded April 19, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI.

First aired on 4/19/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by Peter Payette-Interlochen Public Radio, Sara Simnitch-TV9&10 News and Pat Sullivan-Northern Express. The group discuss regional news coverage including the challenge of localizing breaking national news, the Traverse City Mental Health Court, regional flooding alerts and the health of fish populations in Lake Huron. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 4/18/2013 by Froehlich, B.

Kimberli welcomes Hans Voss, Executive Director of Michigan Land Use Institute, a nonprofit organization with a mission to build vibrant local communities by advocating smart food, energy, and transportation planning. MLUI has been instrumental in jump-starting programs that bring locally produced foods into schools, assist with home energy efficiency, Grand Vision transportation planning, and more. Join Kimberli and Hans in this informative episode of IN FOCUS!

First aired on 4/15/2013 by Poinsett, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded April 12, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guest(s): Cari Noga, Author of Sparrow Migration. Lois Orth in honor of National Poetry Month.

First aired on 4/12/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by sports writers Mike Misico, Sports Editor-Kalkaska Leader and Jame Cooke of the Traverse City Record Eagle. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 4/11/2013 by Froehlich, B.

Kimberli welcomes Chef Fred Laughlin, Director of Northwest Michigan College's Great Lakes Culinary Institute. Fred talks about the scope, history, and growth of this remarkable program being offered in Traverse City, a town that has been recognized as one of the top food destinations in country. If you love food, you will be excited to hear amazing culinary education resource. Fred also tells Kimberli about a few of his personal favorite things he likes to cook at home! Watch it now!

First aired on 4/8/2013 by Poinsett, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded April 5, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guest(s): Brian Lewis from Paperworks Studio of Goodwill Industries. Ann Bardens-McClellan, local poet & Former CMU professor in honor of National Poetry Month.

First aired on 4/5/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by regional news professionals Peter Payette of Interlochen Public Radio and John Flesher of the Associated Press. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 4/4/2013 by Froehlich, B.

Join host Kimberli Bindschatel and guest Karen Fulkerson for a chat about the Fresh Food Partnership, an organization which provides locally grown, fresh food to people in need through regional food pantries, shelters, and community meals programs. Karen shares many interesting details about this valuable community resource including their annual Empty Bowls fundraiser event. Watch now!

First aired on 4/1/2013 by Poinsett, D.

This edition's discussion sifts to transportation. More specifically, placemaking around design for more than just one transportation mode. Gary Howe has joined the iCR discussion before. He has taken his voice for Complete Streets design from his own blog site, mywheelsareturning, to a governmental space with his appointment to the Traverse City Planning Commission, last fall. Gary talks about the concept of 'intentional design' and what it means to the places we live.

First aired on 4/1/2013 by Barrons, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded March 29, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guest(s): Brandy Gallagher - Toxic Cherries Roller Derby Girl and Dave Dennison, chef at Amical.

First aired on 3/29/2013 by Reynolds, A.

Join IN FOCUS host Kimberli Bindschatel and her guest, Tom Ulrich, Deputy Superintendent of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Tom talks about the history and future of this magnificent natural resource. With over a million visitors in 2012, the park has a significant cultural and economic impact in Northwestern Lower Michigan. Tom and staff have been scrambling to deal with the consequences of the federal budget sequester and its effect on park services. Find out more in this informative episode!

First aired on 3/25/2013 by Poinsett, D.

Celebrate the one year anniversary of Up Front Fridays! Join Amy and Tina as they talk to past hosts and reminisce about some of their favorite moments over the past year. Plus, hear special musical guest Matt Mansfield at the end of the program.

First aired on 3/22/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by regional news professionals Sara Simnitch of TV 9&10 News and Mike Misico, Sports Editor of the Kalakasa Leader. Sara talks change both in her on-air role and in the studio - a new news set is on the way. Mike does his best March Madness bracketology and talks local high school hoops. Bill gets Mike to assess the Detroit Lions future with Reggie Bush as running back. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 3/21/2013 by Froehlich, B.

More Talk About Hands On Education. This discussion follows the previous one with Education as our chosen theme of focus. Pat Lamb, Principal of the Traverse Area Intermediate School District, Career Tech Center joins in with response to challenges raised by in the first discussion with Annette Norris. Lamb reviews the many programs the CTC provides, many of which are right in line with Norris's thinking. Lamb acknowledges there is plenty of room to grow the CTC programs with better understanding, especially amongst parents who may not see the opportunities offered their student children. A resilient community needs a wide range of hands-on educational opportunities.

First aired on 3/18/2013 by Barrons, D.

Join IN FOCUS host Kimberli Bindschatel and her guest Steve Largent from the Grand Traverse Conservation District as he talks about his role as River Steward and recent events with the Boardman River dam. Steve describes his history with the Boardman River watershed, details regarding why dam removal was the only practical option, and the events of the day that the dam removal failed. Watch and find out what the future holds for this legendary local natural resource.

First aired on 3/18/2013 by Poinsett, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded March 15, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guest(s): Brandy Wheeler from the Scavenger Hunt for Autism. Jamie Roster, owner of Old Mission Traders, formerly Cherry Spot.

First aired on 3/15/2013 by Reynolds, A.

Legislative update from Lansing.

First aired on 3/13/2013 by Schmidt, W.

IN FOCUS host Kimberli Bindschatel talks with her guest Judy Harrison, the energetic performer and founder of the fundraising mega-event Swingshift which has raised over $687,000 for local nonprofit organizations! Judy talks with Kimberli about the history of the event, her own experience as a performer and instructor, and what Swingshift and the Stars means to our community. Don't miss it!

First aired on 3/11/2013 by Poinsett, D.

National Speaker: Arthur Goldberg (JONAH – Jews Offering Healthy Alternatives to Homosexuality) gives great information on Transgenderism that passes the common sense Parent Test: as opposed to the current social abuse against (1) a six year old Colorado boy with sexual identity disorder; or (2) the disregarding of Massachusetts parents by allowing their school-aged children to self-diagnose their gender identity – without parent involvement. Local Northwest Michigan Speaker: Bill Wiesner (TCFamily.org) (during the first 4 and last 15 minutes) shares: (1) a 12 minute conversation about homosexuality with Dr. David Pilgrim, Diversity head and Sociology Professor at Ferris State University, and Keynote Speaker at our local Them: Images of Separation at the Dennos Museum; (2) Introduction to the wonderful 95 minute documentary entitled Homosexuality by the Catholic organization Church Militant; (3) Includes 20 TCFamily.org Street Sign photos.

First aired on 3/11/2013 by Wiesner, B.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded March 8, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guest(s): Abbey Kaufman and Riley Phoenix from Legally Blonde the Musical. Kate Daggett from Kidz Art.

First aired on 3/8/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In Focus host Kimberli Bindschatel talks with Sustainable TC founder Maura Brennan to find out more about her project to raise awareness about living a sustainable life in Traverse City. Maura shows how thinking globally and acting locally can have an impact on individuals, communities, and our world. She shows how living an environmentally friendly life that is also sensitive to social and economic justice is possible here and everywhere. Join her and Kimberli for this fascinating conversation.

First aired on 3/4/2013 by Poinsett, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded March 1, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guest(s):

First aired on 3/1/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by regional news professionals Patrick Sullivan of the Northern Express and Peter Payette of Interlochen Public Radio. The trio discuss a law enforcement sting operation related to the Michigan medical marijuana law, capture of a dangerous assailant and the Benzie Conservation District hydraulic fracturing forum held Wednesday 2/27/13. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 2/28/2013 by Froehlich, B.

Host Kimberli Bindschatel joins local parent Heather Campbell and TCAPS Board of Education President Kelly Hall to discuss Campbell's challenge to the school board regarding what she considered an inappropriate summer reading assignment for high school AP Literature students. The panel is also joined by Steve Ruble, a local adult professional who talks about the impact of being home-schooled in a household where exposure to many books and movies was strictly limited.

First aired on 2/25/2013 by Poinsett, D.

This edition of iCR focuses on education in a discussion with Annette Norris. Norris is Director of Education at the Academy of Manufacturing Careers in Jackson, Michigan. Highly skilled manufacturing jobs, like highly technical welding jobs are going unfilled in our state due to a lack of a trained workforce. Norris has done such things as creating Welding Camp and a series of supportive programs which begin to get Jackson area school children into directed, hands-on, technical education experience as early as fourth grade. Norris challenges the current system in many schools of delaying any hands-on technical ed. until junior year in high school. She also offers challenges to the Michigan graduation requirements in math and to the single minded idea that college is the only path to future success.

First aired on 2/25/2013 by Barrons, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded February 22, 2013 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guest(s): Dayna Ryan from A.C.T. Grand Traverse and Chef Eric Patterson from the Cooks House restaurant to talk about TC Restaurant Week.

First aired on 2/22/2013 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by Jeremy McBain, Editor Petoskey News Review and Sara Simnitch of TV9&10 News. The journalists discuss stories they are reporting on in the region including winter weather, sensitivity covering tragic stories, the proposed State of Michigan wolf hunting reugulations and the world's record Muskie catch in Lake Bellaire. Find out more on the Briefing Room blog!

First aired on 2/21/2013 by Froehlich, B.

Host Kimberli Bindschatel interviews Gun Safe mom, Missy Smith on how we can keep our community safe, and prevent a gun tragedy from happening here. Produced by David Poinsett and Debbie Rough.

First aired on 2/21/2013 by Poinsett, D.

With this edition ICR visits the Orchard & Vineyard Show in Traverse City. This is the annual winter gathering for fruit growers from across the state of Michigan. With two years of nearly totally destructive of weather in one decade, the fruit industry is facing challenges that go beyond marketing. iCR visits with Dr. Julie Winkler from MSU reporting on climate change threats to cherry production, and with a selection of producers, both experienced and new, on the adaptations they foresee making to continue raising fruit in the face of more frequently occurring weather threats and long term changes in climate.

First aired on 2/4/2013 by Barrons, D.

National Speaker: Peter LaBarbera’s (President of AmericansForTruth.com), speaking on From Gay Pride to Gay Tyranny, shares Opening and Closing Remarks to the 1st Annual Truth Academy about Homosexuality, which was held in Chicago on August 5-7, 2010. Local Northwest Michigan Speaker: Bill Wiesner shares (during the last 20 minutes) showing (1) how the Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) is promoting homosexual behavior to the TCAPS students via both the Be Yourself Always Everywhere campaign and the Building Bridges with Music program to the K – 12 children and young adults; and (2) about ten more items of interest on the topic of homosexuality in our community.

First aired on 1/22/2013 by Wiesner, B.

This edition of iCR focuses on social capital. Dave is joined by representatives from three different different organizations providing services to those in need in the Bay area and across Northern Michigan. Barb Lemcool outlines the 'one stop shopping', navigator services that Help Link provides. Sue Onan, director of Brick Ways, details the various levels of independent living her organization provides for the developmentally disabled, and Jim Moore director of the Disability Network of Northern Michigan tells us his organization provides a large range of services to the disabled across 17 counties. The talk turns to the premise that how well a community takes care of its residents and neighbors who are in need, is a large measure of the social capital, or social strength, of a community and therefore its long term resilience.

First aired on 1/7/2013 by Barrons, D.

Energy Efficiency First. This iCR focusses on energy in this show. We hear from Peter Garforth, noted international consultant on community energy planning. Garforth argues that efficient use of energy is the first step towards securing energy security and resilience in the future. Green energy generation, whether from solar panels or wind generators or hydro-electric or any other source can only work if we address the wasteful use our buildings make of current energy supply. Forty percent of our energy use in this country is in our buildings' electricity and heat demand. We must use it better. The iCR camera then returns to a private residence to see how well an energy audit we showed months ago has been used to improve energy conservation.

First aired on 12/19/2012 by Barrons, D.

First aired on 12/3/2012 by Barrons, D.

A conversation focused on local events in the Grand Traverse region. Recorded September 7th, 2012 on Front St. in Traverse City, MI. Guests: Dennis Kent and Maddie Buteyn from the History Center of Traverse City. Author Richard Fidler.

First aired on 9/7/2012 by Reynolds, A.

In this program host Bill Froehlich, WTCM news radio is joined by newspaper editors Dave Miller and Jeremy McBain from the Traverse City Record Eagle and the Petoskey News Review. Together they discuss how the public can contribute to the process and what types of stories are considered relevant to their publications.

First aired on 9/6/2012 by UpNorth Media Center

Welcoming and closing remarks by Peter Labarbera, President of Americans for Truth.

First aired on 8/7/2012 by Wiesner, B.