WYCE: Recent Episodes
WYCE Radio
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. A proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.wyce.org
In this episode, we speak with Patrick Placzkowski, Chief Executive Officer, Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids, and Daryl Reece, Community leader, founder of the Piecing Together Unity Foundation, and also a board member with the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids.
Daryl shared his story with us regarding the powerful impact that was made on him as a young man while attending programming at the Boys and Girls Clubs in both Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor.
The mission of the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids is to enable all young people to reach their full potential as responsible citizens through education, recreation, and positive community experiences in partnership with the Grand Rapids Police Department.
The Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids offers youth a safe, caring environment and equips them with practical tools to help them prepare for a solid future.
They offer very affordable memberships for only $5 per year!
ONLINE-Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids
In this week's episode, WYCE's John Rummery welcomes Pablo Garcia, the Executive Director of SECOM Resource Center.
The mission at SECOM Resource Center is to give help and hope to their neighbors by empowering families to achieve their full potential through healthy living, education, and economic opportunities.
SECOM began in 1971 as an outreach ministry of four area churches to meet the needs of the surrounding neighborhood, particularly in hunger and food insecurity.
In 1993, SECOM became an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
Today, SECOM is a key resource center that gives help today and builds hope for tomorrow through providing equitable access to resources that promote healthy living, education, and economic opportunities for low-income children and families.
Online SECOM
In this episode, we welcome Jess Young, Executive Director with East Hills Council of Neighbors.
Through regular meetings and continuous outreach, East Hills is reaching beyond the status quo to address the needs of its community.
With the collaboration of passionate neighbors, they have worked to build and maintain a beautiful, diverse, friendly, and safe place to live, work, and play.
The East Hills Council holds monthly meetings on the third Monday of Every Month at 6:30 PM in Cherry Park
All are welcome!
MORE INFO: East Hills Council of Neighbors
East Hills Council of Neighbors on Facebook
In this episode, we speak with Jason Wheeler and Bruce Ling, cofounders and instructors for the annual Great Lakes Music Camp.
This year's Great Lakes Music Camp is October 2-5.
Once again, this year's session is sold out, but there are opportunities to be added to a waiting list for next year's session.
Great Lakes Music Camp is an inspiring and community-building musical experience held on the shores of Lake Michigan at Camp Blodgett Loeks Retreat Center.
The camp creates a unique opportunity for equitable access to traditional music education and offers attendees the opportunity to engage with world-class instructors, staff, and musicians while being immersed in the beauty of Michigan’s lakeshore.
GLMC’s team has long-standing partnerships with several community partners, organizations, businesses, and individuals who provide varying levels of support.
Funds are raised through a fiduciary partnership with Grand River Watershed Arts & Music Council (GRWAMC), a registered 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.
This support allows camp leaders to offer a Youth Scholarship Program and to provide additional financial assistance to students throughout the year for a continued traditional arts education.
Learn more about Great Lakes Music Camp HERE.
In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Stefanie Pohl, Senior Content Specialist · Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
In July, a unique Crowdfunding Campaign called "Northeast Grand Rapids: A City of Healing" was launched with a $50,000 goal to win a matching grant through MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places initiative.
This project was powered by donations through the success of a crowdfunding campaign led by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the nonprofit Lions and Rabbits Center for the Arts (LRCFA), which was powered by donations through the Michigan-based crowdfunding platform Patronicity.
We're pleased to add that after this program was recorded, the Grand Rapids City of Healing project met its required match of $50,000 on August 23, 2025, triggering the MEDC match of $50,000 to complete the project.
Because of the successful funding and the match from the MEDC, a new series of public art installations and murals will be completed throughout Northeast Grand Rapids to improve public health and community connection.
Public Spaces Community Places is a collaborative effort of the MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity, in which residents can use crowdfunding to be part of the development of strategic projects in their communities and be backed with a matching grant from MEDC.
The Public Spaces Community Places initiative started in 2014 with MEDC providing matched funding of up to $50,000 for community improvement projects throughout Michigan.
As of July 7, 2025, MEDC has provided more than $14.3 million in matching grants.
On this week's episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Allison Donahue, Program Manager, The Rapidian.
Allison joined us on this program to provide us with an update about everything happening with The Rapidian.
In 2023, the Rapidian introduced the Grand Rapids Documenters program, part of the nationwide Documenters Network, to create a new public record in Grand Rapids.
Since then, The Rapidian has been training and paying community members to record notes and audio for a diverse range of local public meetings, with a goal of boosting transparency and making what goes on at City Hall (and in boardrooms and auditoriums across the city) more accessible to our neighbors.
Allison also reminded us that The Rapidian upholds the highest standards of editorial independence.
The staff has a strong commitment to full transparency in how they fund their work.
The Rapidian accepts gifts, grants, and sponsorships from individuals, organizations, and foundations to support its operations, special projects, and coverage of specific topics.
However, editorial decisions remain entirely independent—donors have no role in assigning, reviewing, or editing content.
The Rapidian is holding a fund drive September 15-19.
ONLINE: The Rapidian
In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Cindy Meyers-Foley, the Director and CEO ofThe Grand Rapids Art Museum.
Cindy spoke with us about several programs and happenings at the GRAM, including their new "Thursdays on the Terrace" programming, the GRAM on The Green Concert Series, a partnership with WYCE Community Radio.
Cindy also spoke about the changing role of museums, especially how places like the Grand Rapids Art Museum are becoming positive spaces for health and wellbeing, third spaces, and spaces for community and social connection.
Much of their new initiatives are centered on community outreach, including an exciting new program we spoke about at GRAM...their Teen Identity program.
We also briefly discussed the must-see exhibition: David Hockney: Perspective Should Be Reversed, Prints from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation. The exhibit continues through November 2 at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
Online: The Grand Rapids Art Museum
Cindy Meyers-Foley, Director and CEO ofthe Grand Rapids Art Museum.(Late August)
Online:artmuseumgr.org
CLOSE: You’ve been listening toWYCE’s Community Closeup…a weekly public affairs program produced inpartnership with The Rapidian, a hyper-local news service of the Grand RapidsCommunity Media Center. This is WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower…thank you forjoining us!
Cindy Meyers-Foley, Director and CEO ofthe Grand Rapids Art Museum.(Late August)
Online:artmuseumgr.org
CLOSE: You’ve been listening toWYCE’s Community Closeup…a weekly public affairs program produced inpartnership with The Rapidian, a hyper-local news service of the Grand RapidsCommunity Media Center. This is WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower…thank you forjoining us!
On this week's program, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Jamon Alexander, President + CEO, WMCAT (West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology)
Jamon joined WMCAT in 2015 and now leads the organization’s work to provide access to opportunity as president & CEO. Previously, he was the director of workforce development at WMCAT, where he spent several years growing WMCAT’s Adult Career Training Program.
Jamon shared with us how WMCAT provides a culture of opportunity for people to make social and economic progress in their lives and community. They fulfill the mission through visual arts and tech engagement, workforce development, and social enterprise.
For years, WMCAT has created access to opportunity for teens, adults, and families through their Arts + Tech programs, through their workforce development programs and career training, and leadership development.
Jamon also spoke about WMCAT’s unique Step Year programming, which is a unique mix of college and career exploration, self-discovery, and connections to employment pathways in a variety of sectors.
Step Year is tuition-free and is open to Kent County adults 18-24 with a high school diploma or GED.
Learn more: WMCAT ONLINE
On this week's episode, we welcome Hal Phillips, board chair of the Eastown Community Association.
The Eastown Community Association is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit Neighborhood Association that was formed through the joint efforts of Aquinas College and Eastown residents in 1973. The ECA works with City officials, the Grand Rapids Police Department, other nonprofit organizations, and area businesses.
The Eastown Community Association also works closely with the Eastown Business Association on improvement projects within the business district.
Some of the many signature events sponsored by The Eastown Community Association are Community Bike Rides, Bizarre Bazaar, held in mid-June each year, and the fast-approaching Eastown Street Fair, on Saturday, September 6.
The mission of The Eastown Community Association is to foster a safe, diverse, and walkable Eastown neighborhood by creating opportunities for neighbors and friends to engage and connect.
ONLINE: Eastown Community Association
In this episode, we welcome Joel Westphal, Deputy Director, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum
Joel spoke with us about the upcoming multi-day event: The Greatest Generation Celebration: Honoring the 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II.
The events will be spread across several days from September 1-7, 2025.
This Historic Celebration in Grand Rapids offers a full week of remembrance and tribute to America's Greatest Generation.
The events also offer an opportunity to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, honoring the millions of American and Allied forces, patriots, and citizens who made immense sacrifices to ensure a world free of tyranny.
Greatest Generation Events:
Honor Parade & Wings of Honor
📅 Monday, September 1 (Labor Day) | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM. 📍 Downtown Grand Rapids
Bell Ringing Ceremony
📅 Monday, September 1 | 8:08 PM-📍 Throughout Grand Rapids.
Celebration at the Air Zoo. 📅 Saturday, September 6 | time TBA
📍 Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Center, Kalamazoo, MI
Perspectives on the Greatest Generation – Lecture Series
📅 Tuesday, September 2 – Thursday, September 4
📍 Various Venues
🎟 Free Admission (Registration Required for Some Events)
Renowned WWII historians and authors present insightful lectures on the impact and legacy of the Greatest Generation.
Convocation of Remembrance (Prayer Service)
📅 Tuesday, September 2 | 6:00 PM at Saint Andrew’s Cathedral.
Greatest Generation Night at the Whitecaps
📅 Tuesday, September 2 | 6:35 PM--📍 LMCU Ballpark
Cinematic Salute Film Festival
📅 Friday, September 5 – Sunday, September 7
📍 Studio Park, Downtown Grand Rapids
🎟 Outdoor Screenings (BYO Chairs)
Enjoy classic films that highlight the sacrifices and struggles of the Greatest Generation.
Online: The Greatest Generation Celebration: Honoring the 80th Anniversary of the End of World War II.
In this episode, WYCE's John Rumery welcomes
Guest: : Guest: Fridah Kanini, the Founder and CEO of A Glimpse of Africa.
A Glimpse of Africa is a West-Michigan-based non-profit that brings people together by showcasing, educating, celebrating, and sharing diverse African cultures while fostering community through programs that voice, advocate for, and address African refugees and immigrants’ needs and disparities.
Fridah also gave us a preview of their annual, A Glimpse of Africa Festival, happening August 9th -August 10th, at Calder Plaza. Saturday hours -10:30 am - 11:00 pm. Sunday Festival hours | 10:30 am - 5:30 pm.
The festival is a beautiful and richly diverse showcase of the many African cultures in West Michigan.
LEARN MORE AT: A Glimpse of Africa
On this episode, we welcome Gaby Cordova, Director of Engagement with the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan.
Founded in 1978, the goal of the Hispanic Center is to provide unmet social services to the Hispanic Community in Greater West Michigan.
The Hispanic Center of West Michigan is located on Cesar Chavez Ave. in Roosevelt Park, the largest Latino neighborhood in Grand Rapids.
The Center serves more than 30,000 individuals annually.
The staff is largely bilingual and multicultural.
Hispanic Festival 2025 is the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan's annual celebration of our West Michigan’s rich Latino heritage.
The dates are August 1-3 on Calder Plaza
Learn More: Hispanic Center of Western Michigan
On this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes Daryl Reece, Executive Director and co-founder of the Pieces of Reeces Foundation.
The Pieces of Reeces Foundation will once again bring the community together on Saturday, August 9, from 1-8 pm, for their third annual Piecing Together Unity Festival at Rosa Parks Circle.
The festival is hosted by the Pieces of Reece's Foundation.
The foundation provides essential resources such as food, clothing, and shelter to ensure that every child's basic needs are met, allowing them to focus on their education and personal growth.
Executive Director Daryl Reece began the foundation with his wife, Debra, in 2019.
Daryl credits his time at the Boys and Girls Clubs in Benton Harbor and Kalamazoo as being strong positive influences on his life, and he is very involved with the organization today, including the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids.
More online: Pieces of Reece's Foundation.
In this week's episode, WYCE station manager Phil Tower welcomes Dana Eardley, executive director of Fulton Street Market, and Anissa Mathiasz, assistant market manager at the Fulton Street Market.
Fulton Street Market celebrates the power of community and grassroots activism.
Established in 1922, Fulton Street Market has been a staple of Grand Rapids and beyond, evolving to meet the changing needs of our diverse population.
Dana Eardley talked about how Fulton Street Market has been working hard to create a vibrant marketplace experience that connects communities, supports local farmers and artisans, celebrates diverse cultures, and ensures sustainable food access for all.
We also learned that their mission is to inspire agricultural participation in Grand Rapids by tending to meaningful connections and experiences at the Market.
Other topics that Dana and Anissa touched on in this episode included:
- How the Fulton Street Market is working to achieve its mission of increasing food access in our community.
- Workshops and other learning opportunities that happen at the market.
- How the market is evolving to meet the needs of our growing and diverse West Michigan community.
Learn more online: Fulton Street Market
In this episode, WYCE station manager Phil Tower speaks with Wardell Frazier, Jr., Executive Director of The Diatribe, and J-Lin Tamminga, Director of Education at The Diatribe.
Both Wardell and J-Lin spoke about the Diatribe Vision: Creating art that is informative because we know that some of the most complex topics can be digested easier through an artistic lens, and that some of the most complex verbiage can be redivided through the creative gaze; words like racism, justice, and even liberation.
A critical and exciting piece of the future for The Diatribe is The Emory Arts & Culture Hub. In a real sense, it is “a dream home” for the Diatribe leadership.
With the Emory Arts & Culture Hub, the Diatribe plans a new model for redevelopment that they hope will serve as an example for inclusive community and economic growth, potentially influencing more of this type of work in communities across the country.
ONLINE: The Diatribe
In this episode, host Janet Zahn speaks with Sasha Wolff, founder and executive director of Still I Run, as well as Brendan Kelly, licensed therapist and owner and CEO of The Well Being.
Both West Michigan organizations have partnered to offer the Starting Line Scholarship, a program designed to remove any barriers that may be blocking individuals from taking up running for mental health.
The scholarship seeks to provide recipients with the motivation and accountability to keep running.
Still, I Run is a West Michigan-based nonprofit that promotes the benefits of running for improved mental health. They seek to support, inspire, and unite individuals of all backgrounds and experiences in their journey to better mental health.
The Well Being uses physical exercise & outpatient counseling to improve mental health for its clients.
Online: The Well Being
Still I Run
In this episode, WYCE. Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Sharon Caldwell-Newton, Executive Director with CSNIP.
CSNIP positively impacts thousands of families each year in our mission to reduce the gap in veterinary care by providing affordable vet care for pet families in our 10-county community.
They're here to help---If you have a pet, you already know how powerful the human animal bond is and how it can change lives. CSNIP promises no judgment, no attitude... just kindness and support.
Sharon told us that CSNIP provides between 10,000 to 12,000 spay/neuter surgeries per year, vaccinating between 15,000 to 17,000 pets annually, helping with dental care, and performing other soft tissue surgeries.
CSNIP can help with:
- Spay/neuter
- Wellness/Prevention
- Dental c/p
- Dental Extractions
- Other Surgical Treatments/Procedures
- Online Pharmacy
CSNIP holds its 8th annual Wags & Whiskers auction on October 29th, 2025.
More online: CSNIP
On this week's episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Jazz McKinney, executive director of The Grand Rapids Pride Center.
The mission of The Grand Rapids Pride Center is to create positive change for the 2-SLGBTQ+ community by breaking down barriers, creating awareness, providing inclusive services, and bridging relationships.
Jazz spoke about the history of the Pride Center and also discussed the upcoming PrideFest 2025, happening on Calder Plaza on Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, full of activities for all kinds of people and family-friendly as well.
The first Pride Celebration was held at the Monroe Amphitheater in downtown Grand Rapids on June 19, 1988.
Today, it has grown to be one of the largest one-day events in Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Pride Festival is an event that brings 2-SLGBTQ+ community members, 2-SLGBTQ+ businesses, allies, and organizations together to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the beautiful, vast 2-SLGBTQ+ community!
Going into its 37th year in 2025, Grand Rapids Pride Festival is working to create a safe, open, and inclusive environment for Grand Rapids community members to celebrate who they are.
On this episode, host Janet Zahn welcomes Lakiya Jenkins, executive director of LINC UP, and Donald Thompson, events coordinator with LINC UP.
They joined Janet to discuss their upcoming Rock the Block Festival on June 14th in Grand Rapids
LINC UP’s Rock the Block brings neighbors, local businesses, and community partners together for a vibrant day of connection, celebration, and culture. It features live music and food trucks, local vendors, and many family activities.
Rock the Block transforms their neighborhood into a block party with purpose—celebrating the people who make our community strong.
About LINC UP: With 20 years of experience building affordable housing and community power, LINC UP is working to achieve racial equity in Grand Rapids.
The LINC UP mission is to advance a racial equity agenda in Grand Rapids by Expanding Affordable Housing and Increasing Community Power. They strive to change policies that limit advancement opportunities in under-resourced communities and neighborhoods.
Online: LINC UP
On this episode, we welcome back Dana Romero-, BSCD.
They are the Development Coordinator for Donor Communications at YWCA West Central Michigan.
YWCA West Central Michigan is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and girls, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
The YWCA West Central Michigan seeks to inspire hope and healing.
Where racism and sexism give rise to domestic and sexual violence, the YWCA works to transform lives with expert services for victims, and education programs to end those things that fuel abuse.
The YWCA also works to urge public policy that translates its mission into law.
Dana reminded us that one of the biggest fundraisers of the year is coming up on June 7, 2025.
The 41st annual Women Lawyers Versus Judges, Charity Softball game, and fundraiser for the YWCA.
The game is held at LMCU Ballpark.
Learn more about YWCA West Central Michigan.
On this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Adrienne Goodstal, the Executive Director of North Kent Connect.
North Kent Connect is a Christian service organization committed to improving the lives of all people in northern Kent County by providing access to basic needs and promoting economic independence.
They provide a wide variety of services for the clients/individuals they serve.
North Kent Connect serves a very broad geographic area in northern Kent County. You can see that the area served by NKC here.
The NKC Thrift Store and Farm Stand offer high-quality clothing, housewares, locally-sourced produce, and almost something for everyone.
Learn how to get involved as a volunteer with North Kent Connect here.
Online: North Kent Connect
On this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with David Bult, executive director of Next Step of West Michigan, and Darion Boyd, Carpentry-Community Builder with Next Step of West Michigan.
Next Step of West Michigan is a faith-based, social enterprise non-profit that provides job skills training, as well as employment opportunities in construction, manufacturing, and municipal clean-up.
The organization works to stabilize and empower its teammates to create high-quality products and services for its customers.
They serve people who have barriers to employment—broken relationships, lack of resources, insecure housing, previous incarceration, or addiction—but are determined to build a better future.
Next Step of West Michigan does this work in the 49507 neighborhood and greater Grand Rapids communities. Their goal is to cultivate a sustainable place in our city where people can heal and grow through work and relationships, where all can thrive.
Online: Next Step of West Michigan
On this week's episode, host , John Rumery from WYCE speaks with Lindsay Ellis, a member of the Grand Rapids Women's Chorus.
The Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus is dedicated to singing music that celebrates and honors the diversity of women’s lives. Drawing on music from many cultures, the Chorus strives to educate and inspire its community to promote justice, peace, and equality.
The chorus is a diverse, volunteer group of women who are devoted to musical excellence and using the power of music to delight, to uplift, and to advance the cause of social justice.
The Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus presents two major concerts annually in addition to appearances in a variety of community events and venues.
Learn More: The Grand Rapids Women’s Chorus
On this episode, WYCE's Janet Zahn speaks with Nicole Rapacki, the Recycling Coordinator for the Grand Rapids Department of Public Works.
Nicole and Janet spoke about the efforts by the city of Grand Rapids to consider becoming the sole trash hauler for residential properties, according to city officials.
The Grand Rapids Department of Public Works leadership has conducted two separate studies that have each recommended that the city become the single hauler for residential services.
Currently, the city handles about 90% of residential trash collection, with private companies serving the remainder.
ONLINE: City of Grand Rapids Department of Public Works
On this week's episode, host Phil Tower speaks with Noddea Skidmore, the Director of Marketing and Communications with Grand Rapids Civic Theatre.
Noddea gave us a preview of the upcoming 20 25–20 26 season at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, and talked as well about ticket packages that patrons can take advantage of.
We also discussed the upcoming "Ten For All" finals and accessibility at the theatre.
Established in 1926, Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and School of Theatre Arts is one of the oldest and largest community theatres in the country.
Today, the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre & School of Theatre Arts is the 5th largest community theatre in the country.
GRCT produces 9 mainstage productions each year with the help of over 800 volunteers.
The Civic is a true gem on the West Michigan arts and culture scene, and a proud community partner of WYCE.
You can learn more at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
Upcoming Performances:
Ten for All 2025 Finals
Fri May 16, 2025 - Sat May 17, 2025
Waitress
Fri June 06, 2025 - Sun June 29, 2025
Brought to life on Broadway by a groundbreaking all-female creative team.
More InfoBook Now
ROCK OF AGES
Fri September 12, 2025 - Sun October 05, 2025
Rock Musical Comedy
More InfoBook Now
PETE THE CAT
Thu October 16, 2025 - Sun October 19, 2025
Theatre for Young Audiences Musical
More InfoBook Now
FROZEN
Fri November 14, 2025 - Sun December 14, 2025
Holiday Show Musical
More InfoBook Now
AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’
Fri January 16, 2026 - Sun February 01, 2026
Jazzy Musical Revue
More InfoBook Now
THE LIGHTNING THIEF
Fri February 27, 2026 - Sun March 15, 2026
Adventurous Musical
More InfoBook Now
DIAL M FOR MURDER
Fri April 17, 2026 - Sun May 03, 2026
Thriller Play
More InfoBook Now
LEGALLY BLONDE
Fri June 05, 2026 - Sun June 28, 2026
Empowering, Glittering Musical
On this week's episode, host John Rumery welcomes Lydia Kauffman, a Project Manager at Carnevale and COO at The Tech-Collaborative
The Tech Collaborative empowers non-profits with innovative tech solutions, enabling them to maximize their impact.
They are committed to nurturing the next generation of tech by providing opportunities for non-traditional talent to thrive in the industry.
The Tech Collaborative exists to bridge the gap between technology and social good while fostering diverse and inclusive career pathways.
Online: The Tech Collaborative
On this week's program, Station manager, Phil Tower welcomes Whitney Valentine, Director of Education + Exhibitions, with the Saugatuck Center for The Arts, and New York Times best-selling author in speaker Brad Montague.
Brad Montague is the keynote speaker for the Curiosity In Action Conference on April 26 at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts.
We Hope You Fail Better, is currently on exhibit through May 16 at SC4A.
It’s an exhibit where playful and thoughtful pieces are brought together by New York Times bestselling duo, Brad and Kristi Montague, for their debut exhibition, We Hope You Fail Better., just in time for the release of their new book “Fail-A-Bration.”
Brad is the creator of the hit web series Kid President, and Kid Congress, and author of Becoming Better Grownups, and the New York Times best sellers Kid President's Guide to Being Awesome and The Circles All Around Us. As an illustrator, his work is regularly featured in Joanna Gaines's The Magnolia Journal.
You're invited to join others at the Curiousity In Action: A Conference In Doing, for a full day of unique and immersive experiences highlighting the intersection of wellness and creativity.
Conference participants will use curiosity to discover how creation is a form of self-care and how art-making is inherently therapeutic and spend the day with us making, thinking, connecting, creating, and just… being. We invite you to the first biannual Curiosity in Action: a conference for doing.
What’s a “Conference for Doing?” Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like: taking the conference framework and making it actionable.
Part of the aim in building a “conference for doing” is to offer all participants the opportunity to “try on” the ideas that are being shared by our presenters, so the day will follow an adult learning model that incorporates three elements: information, practice, and reflection. Each session will include all three pieces and they will repeat in this pattern:
- INFORMATION – Encouraging, thoughtful, and creative ideas will be shared by dynamic presenters during the large group sessions
- PRACTICE – Immediately following each presentation, attendees will be invited to engage a personal practice that allows them to work with the content offered in the presentation. Prompts will be provided and attendees may engage them in any way that is most helpful to them – maybe you take a quick walk outdoors and think about the prompt, maybe you’d prefer to find a quiet place to be still, or maybe you borrow a friend for a brief chat.
- REFLECTION – All conference attendees will be divided into Reflection Groups that will gather after the brief “practice” time to continue their learning in community. Each reflection group will be facilitated by trained hosts who guide conversations and activities to help the group dig deeper into the “information” offered by the presenter(s).
CURIOSITY IN ACTION- A CONFERENCE IN DOING
Overview, April 26, 2025, 9:00 am - 5:00 p @ Saugatuck Center for the Arts
Cost | $125. INFO + REGISTRATION: https://sc4a.org/
SC4A Mission-the SC4A is an arts center with a difference. They aim high and wide with a core mission of transforming lives by creating community, connecting people and spreading joy. They focus on three areas: entertainment, education and engagement.
Online: SC4A
On this week's episode, we welcome John VanderHaagen - Director of Communications, with Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
John provided us with a timely update on some important and newsworthy happenings at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
As the curtain falls on another long West Michigan winter, it's that time of year again when the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory comes alive with the return of Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming!
The annual Butterflies are Blooming exhibit continues through April 30, 2025.
John reminded us that the butterfly exhibit is the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the United States.
Meijer Gardens is also offering three after-hours events for our community members with disabilities.
John told us that the gardens will be offering complimentary after-hours access for visitors with autism or other sensory processing needs, visitors who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH), and visitors who are blind or have low vision.
We also previewed the dates for the upcoming Fifth Third Bank summer concert series, as well as the free Tuesday night concerts as a part of the Tuesday Evening Music Club.
Finally, John reminded us of the opening of a new exhibit, BUSTED: Contemporary Sculpture Busts.
BUSTED opened in early April and runs through September 20, 2025.
It showcases the ancient sculpture genre as radically transformed by 21st-century artists. Throughout history, sculpted busts have served to commemorate and preserve the likeness of distinguished individuals, and to celebrate divinity or nobility.
Online: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
In this episode, WYCE Station manager, Phil Tower speaks with Nik Thomasma, the Executive Director of The Michigan Music Alliance.
The Michigan Music Alliance is presenting the Music Econ Summit at the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation in partnership with Monk Recordings LLC., Push the City Cipher and Triumph Music Academy.
The Music Econ Summit was founded in 2024 by Monk Mattheus, founder of Monk Recordings LLC., and is happening again this year, April 11-13 at The Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation.
The Music Econ Summit brings together music industry experts and professionals for 3 days of educational workshops, panel discussions, networking and showcase opportunities all focused on sustainable income strategies and upward economic mobility for the Michigan music community.
Scholarships are available.
Registration and details are at The Michigan Music Alliance.
In this episode, host, Phil Tower speaks with David Bulkowski, executive director, Disability Advocates of Kent County.
Disability Advocates’ mission is “to work alongside persons with disabilities as they seek to lead self-directed lives.”
They provide a wide array of services throughout Kent, Mecosta, Ionia, Montcalm, and Osceola counties to individuals with physical, cognitive, mental, and sensory disabilities and their families.
Dave spoke with us about their upcoming Disability Awareness Day on Saturday, March 28, at The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 2500 Division Ave in Grand Rapids.
The event runs from 9 AM to 2 PM.
Disability Awareness Day is designed for connection, empowerment, and action.
Dave encouraged, “Whether you're an advocate, an organization, or someone navigating life with a disability, this event offers resources, strategies, and community support to help you thrive.
The event will feature a Keynote Speaker: Dr. Melba Velez-Ortiz.
Registration for Disability Awareness Day
Online: DAKC online
In this episode, we welcome Darius Colquitt, Founder, President, Producing & Artistic Director, of BAM Talent.
BAM (or Black Art Matters) Talent, was created & founded in 2021 as a forward-thinking organization, located in Grand Rapids, MI., dedicated to celebrating, promoting, and advocating for Black and underrepresented artists.
BAM works as a national nonprofit, providing both training & platforming opportunities for incredible talent, fostering inclusion in the art world, and driving positive social change through the transformative power of art.
BAM Talent’s mission is to enrich, inspire & enable black & underrepresented voices through professional-level theatrical training & production works."
BAM Talent also presents a summer concert series which we will be hearing more about in the upcoming months on WYCE.
Online: BAM Talent Online
On this week's program, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower
speaks with comedian Brian Atkinson, plus therapist Matt Sharpe and radio & podcast host Rick Vuyst.
All three are set to appear with Kyle Underwood, and special guest Terri DeBoer in a Clean Comedy Show at the Wealthy Theatre, Wednesday, March 26.
The event is billed as "Live From Wealthy Street: A night of clean comedy with Kyle Underwood, Terri DeBoer, Rick Vuyst, Matt Sharpe, and Brian Atkinson."
It is a fundraiser for the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, Be Nice, and is produced in partnership with Hope & Wholeness, and Northtown 794.
The guests shared with us that Live from Wealthy Street will be a night of clean comedy and features some of West Michigan’s top comedians while raising funds for mental health.
It's appropriate for ages 13+.
Event Details plus tickets can be found at Brian's website:
Brianacomedian.com
On this week's episode, host Phil Tower welcome Bing Goei, cofounder of the West Michigan, Asian American Association.
Founded roughly 16 years ago, the West Michigan Asian American Association, Inc. is a Michigan nonprofit corporation that seeks to build a collaborative, active, and committed Asian American community in West Michigan with a focus on healthcare, education, and civic engagement.
In pursuit of its mission and vision, the WMAAA’s current programs and activities include a scholarship program, networking events, presentations and performances that promote appreciation for Asian culture, speaking engagements that promote greater awareness of healthcare issues affecting the Asian American community, a patient navigation system, and other programs and activities that further its strategic objectives.
Bing spoke with us about the organization and also spoke with us about their upcoming “Building Bridges to the Future” Asian American Leadership Summiton March 28 at the Goei Center.
Online: The West Michigan Asian American Association
On this episode, host & WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Sophia Ward Brewer, Serials and Collection Development Librarian at GRCC and Vice President of the Greater GR Women's History Council.
Sophia recently gave a presentation at Grand Rapids Public Library titled Tracing the Steps | African American Women During the Progressive Era in Grand Rapids
Sophia’s done a significant amount of research on early African American women’s clubs and the remarkable women who led these organizations here in Grand Rapids.
She spoke with us about the progressive era and what it was like for women living in Grand Rapids during that period.
Online: The Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council
On this week's episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Thelma Ensink, executive director of Dégagé Ministries.
Dégagé Ministries, established in 1967, offers hope and opportunity to those facing homelessness and poverty in our community.
Dégagé Ministries was started in the basement of the Salvation Army at 160 Fountain Street NE in 1967 as a coffee house for college students and a few people from the neighborhood who came for music, poetry, coffee, and to discuss issues.
They wanted to create a place for people to come together and feel at ease (“dégagé” is a French word meaning “to be at ease”).
Today, Dégagé serves over 1000 unique individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty in Grand Rapids by providing over 20 emergency, empowerment, and engagement programs.
The mission of Dégagé is to reflect the love of Christ to all who come through our doors by building relationships and offering programs that foster dignity and respect.
Online: Dégagé Ministries
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue, program manager atThe Rapidian, speaks with Pablo Garcia, Executive Director, SECOM.
SECOM is a key Resource Center that gives help and hope to their neighbors by empowering families to achieve their full potential through healthy living, education, and economic opportunities.
SECOM offers a wide range of services, including a healthy food pantry and farm fresh market, a community garden, education, services, volunteering, and groups.
Pablo noted that addressing issues of inequity in their community has always been and will remain a focus of SECOM’s work.
As SECOM Executive Director, Pablo and his staff are compelled to challenge themselves to better understand, uplift, and serve neighbors with the goal of equity and equality for all.
SECOM especially welcomes donations and volunteer support.
Learn more about how you can support this vital community service atSECOM.
In this week's episode, WYCE station manager, Phil Tower welcomesLynne Brown Tepper, Executive and Artistic Director Circle Theatre.
Lynne joined us for a preview of the upcoming exciting2025 Season at Circle Theatre.
Circle Theatre is the only community theatre in the West Michigan area that specializes in summer theatre. The Theatre was founded in order to allow community performers of all ages to continue honing their craft and to provide another opportunity for directors, choreographers, musicians, designers and technicians to gain employment. Circle Theatre has over 300 volunteers and employs approximately 127 independent contractors from the West Michigan community on an annual basis. Now that's a positive impact!
Lynne also shared with us news of an exciting fundraiser that circle theater is hosting on May 3rd, their "A Night Under the Stars, Adult Prom."
Online:Circle Theatre
On this episode, we welcome Enid Gaddis, MA, - Director of Equity & Inclusion at Arbor Circle.
Arbor Circle is one of West Michigan’s most comprehensive providers of mental health counseling, substance use treatment, and family services.
Arbor Circle Staff collaborates with local resources to address the needs of our community, promote new ways of assistance, and find better strategies to help the people we serve.
In this episode, Enid gave us an overview of the broad range of support and services offered by Arbor Circle.
We also discussed some of their helpful upcoming community events which are open to the public, including a class on “Adult Mental Health First Aid” as well as a class in March, providing valuable insight through Arbor Circle’s “QPR Suicide Prevention Training.”
Learn more: Arbor Circle
On this week's episode, WYCE station manager, Phil Tower speaks with Marie Orttenburger, Advancement Manager with Land Conservancy of West Michigan.
In 1976, four volunteers met to lay out a plan that would identify, protect, and care for West Michigan’s natural areas.
They created an organization called the Natural Areas Conservancy of West Michigan (NACOWMI), and they immediately set out with lofty goals. Early projects included several conservation easements, Saul Lake Bog, Lake Breeze natural area and an addition to the Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Today, that organization is known as the Land Conservancy of West Michigan.
Marie Orttenburger is the advancement manager for Land Conservancy of West Michigan.
She joined us on the program for an update on what’s happening at LCWM.
We talked about some interesting upcoming events that the general public can take part in including a “Nighttime Hoot & Hike” on January 21, and there Second Saturday Workday at Lamberton Lake Nature Preserve on Saturday, February 8.
Land Conservancy of West Michigan we’ll celebrate Earth Day on April 22 with a benefit screening of the climate conscious film, “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.”
The screening happens Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at 7:30 pm at The Wealthy Theatre.
Online: Land Conservancy of West Michigan
In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Brian Elve, Executive Director Guiding Light, David Madiol, Director of development and communications with Guiding Light; and Michael Crittenden, Musician and President Mackinaw Harvest Music Group.
Brian provided us with an overview of the recovery services offered through Guiding Light. The program offers no charge substance abuse, addiction, recovery for men and women.
Guiding Light is hosting its first-ever, live benefit concert, “Guiding Light Live” on Saturday, February 15 at St Cecilia Music Center, 4-6:30pm. (*Note the time).
Guiding Light Live features an all-star lineup of Michigan acoustic legends, playing songs and sharing stories in the intimate setting of St. Cecilia Music Center’s Royce concert hall, featuring a performance in the round with these artists:
Poet, producer, singer-songwriter, and local music institution, Ralston Bowles*
*Michael Crittenden…Award-winning producer, singer-songwriter and founder of Troll for Trout.
*Kate Pillsbury, Songwriter, singer and guitarist for The Crane Wives.
*Joshua Davis, Singer-songwriter and finalist on NBC’s “The Voice."
The concert is from 4 – 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, and the show will open with a performance by three-part harmony female supergroup, The Rebel Eves.
Doors for the event open at 3 PM with a special silent auction for Guiding Light sponsored by The Gilmore Collection. Preshow Mocktails are provided by MeXo GR.
Tickets and More Info: Guiding Light Live
On this week's program, WYCE's Phil Tower speaks with Ron Yob, chairman of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians.
The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians is a native sovereign nation with agreements with the federal government dating back to 1795. The Grand River Bands originally included 19 bands of Ottawa people who lived along the Grand River and other waterways in southwest Michigan. Most of the Grand River Bands’ current membership resides in Kent, Muskegon and Oceana counties.
Their mission is to provide for the preservation of our way of life and the welfare of their people and to promote and restore the harmony and cooperation between the Grand River Bands, and other Michigan Ottawa and Chippewa bands, and the general public.
Since 1994 the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians’ have worked to petition the government for federal recognition of their tribe.
Yob told us that once they receive federal recognition the tribe can access useful, supportive resources such as tuition, healthcare, and housing assistance.
These opportunities are granted to tribes that are federally recognized, and the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians should be able to access these benefits with no further delay.
The Grand River Bands tribe has long been a vital part of Kent County and the community of western Michigan, and they have agreements with the federal government dating to 1795.
On this week's program, WYCE station manager Phil Tower speaks with Bill Kirk, Communications Director with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.
Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) is the organization responsible for city building and place management in the urban core of the City of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Established in 2013, DGRI serves as the singular management entity for the combined operations of the Downtown Development Authority, the Downtown Improvement District , and the Monroe North Tax Increment Finance Authority.
Bill spoke with us about the World of Winter Festival is a free, outdoor celebration in Downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, celebrating winter through art, events, and activities for all ages.
The festival is from January 10 - March 2, 2025, and is presented by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.
World of Winter transforms the city into a winter wonderland each year.
Now in its 6th year, World of Winter features stunning art installations, interactive exhibits, and live performances, offering a unique way to embrace the season and enjoy the beauty of winter.
Online: The World of Winter Festival
Online: Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.
On this week's program, WYCE station manager Phil Tower speaks with Emilio Zamarippa, Executive Director of Steepletown Neighborhood Services.
Emilio started at Steepletown 11 years ago as a GVSU undergraduate intern, was hired as a youth case manager, and is now the Workforce Development Director.
Emilio's personal mission is to empower youth and young adults to pursue their academic and professional goals.
Steepletown strives to promote the idea of neighbors helping neighbors live with dignity and hope.
In the 25 years since, Steepletown has grown from modest beginnings with a part-time director, to sixteen full-time and ten part-time staff members.
Steepletown also welcomes donations and volunteer help through its website.
Learn More Online: Steepletown Neighborhood Services
On this week's program, host Phil Tower ( sitting in for Allison Donahue) speaks with Andy McIntyre, chief operating officer at John Ball Zoo.*
Andy gave us an overview of the recently approved 10-year master plan for John Ball Zoo.
The plan which was passed in early December after a 16 to 3 vote before the Kent County Commission, includes additional language that protects green space and trees.
Andy discussed some of the particular elements of the recently approved 10-year master plan, including expanding the Africa exhibit at the zoo to include a giraffe habitat, reviving a sea lion habitat, and adding a large South American forest habitat featuring native animals, free-flying birds and a waterfall that reaches 30 feet.
He also discussed the care and maintenance of the zoo and its animals during the winter season, the upcoming third year of the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival, and the benefits of John Ball Zoo memberships for individuals and families.
Online resources: PDF: See the master plan
John Ball Zoo
On this week's episode, we welcome Keith Elder, President & CEO of the Grand Rapids Symphony.
Keith Elder joined the Grand Rapids Symphony as its President & CEO on July 1, 2023. Before that, he served as president of the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
He’s also had roles with the Aspen Music Festival and School, Eastman School of Music, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Pops, and Tanglewood Music Center.
On this episode, Keith Elder joined us to discuss his background and the significant cultural impact that the Grand Rapids Symphony has on the West Michigan region and he highlighted the numerous partnerships the symphony has developed to strengthen its ties to the community.
He also discussed some of the highlights of the remaining symphony season, including the annual Symphony Holiday Pops concerts, membership opportunities with the Grand Rapids Symphony, and a major event to be revealed in February 2025.
Since its founding in 1930, the Grand Rapids Symphony has been nationally recognized for the quality of its concerts, the breadth of its educational programs, and the innovation of its initiatives to support diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as to serve the wider community in non-traditional settings.
Online: The Grand Rapids Symphony
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue, program manager at The Rapidian, speaks with Stephanie Sheler, Executive Director of CASA of Kent County
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Kent County organizes and empowers community members to provide best-interest advocacy for children in Kent County’s child welfare system.
Their program connects concerned citizens with the family court to make a lasting impact on the lives of children who have experienced abuse and neglect.
Stephanie also spoke about CASA volunteer opportunities.
She noted that CASA volunteers come from different backgrounds and experiences. Some are students, some are working, some are retired, and some are stay-at-home parents.
CASA volunteers are essential advocates in the family court system, they do not need any special legal or social work training. They also do not need to be licensed foster parents because they do not provide care or housing for children. Instead, CASA volunteers come as they are, with open minds and open hearts.
Online: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Kent County
This week's episode welcomes Brooke Clement, director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
Brooke Clement began her career with the National Archives as an archives technician at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She then held archival and supervisory positions with the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, and the Barack Obama Presidential Library.
Brooke joined us to discuss their current major exhibit, “Ford at 50,”… Decisions That Defined a Presidency. The exhibit features artifacts, documents, photographs, and much more to help tell the story of the Ford Presidency.
We also discussed the Betty Ford “mini-exhibit” profiling the “Betty Blip.” The exhibit gives visitors a chance to learn about Betty Ford’s breast cancer diagnosis just six weeks into her husband’s presidency.
Finally, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Express display returns for the holiday season. It's a model train exhibit with Ford-related pieces built by talented volunteers. The train is in the museum lobby and free to check out!
Learn more: Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
On this week's episode, Phil Tower speaks with Carol Kendra, COO of Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
Carol shares how she became Frederik Meijer Garden & Sculpture Park's first Chief Operating Officer.
Before joining Frederik Meijer Gardens, Kendra was Vice President of Business Development, Strategic Growth, and Engagement at The Henry Ford in Dearborn, Michigan.
Carole also gave us a preview of the upcoming ENLIGHTEN Experience at Meijer Gardens – a new epic winter light spectacle happening November 27 through January 4th.
Carol also told us that Meijer Gardens achieved a new record attendance of over 780,000 visitors in the most recent fiscal year, and she expects that to be a calendar-year record as well.
At the same time as the Enlighten winter light spec spectacle, Meijer Gardens will also have its annual University of Michigan Health-West Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition… a top-rated attraction during the holiday season.
Online: Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes Sister Colleen Ann Nagle, Executive Director and Counselor at The Franciscan Life Process Center in Lowell, MI.
The mission of The Franciscan Life Process Center is topromote relationships with God that bring dignity and hope to the sacred process of all life through programs that assist, educate, enrich and inform, especiallyutilizing Music therapy, visual arts workshops, classes, galleries, counseling services, spiritual integration, and other opportunities.
Online:The Franciscan Life Process Center
On this week's program, host Allison Donahue speaks with Veronica Horsley-Pettigrew, Community Outreach/Marketing Supervisor · Care Resources (PACE). Veronica joined Allison to discuss the community open house for Care Resources’ new location in Lowell, Michigan.
Care Resources is a community-based program for people 55 or older that promotes healthy, independent living and helps prevent nursing home placement. Our team of healthcare professionals works with you and your family to develop a comprehensive care plan — helping you make medical decisions every step of the way.
Online: Care Resources
In the second half of our program this week, WYCE station manager spoke with Tiffany Carr, the Community Engagement Coordinator for Michigan Veteran Homes and The Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, and Kristen Aidif, Director for the Veterans Day Five benefit run for The Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.
The fifth annual Veterans Day 5 starts and finishes at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids on Saturday, November 9!
The event features a timed 5 mile and 5K runs, along with a no charge, untimed .5 mile Remembrance Walk; the Veterans Day 5 will benefit the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids.
The SpartanNash Community Pancake Breakfast will occur in the Michigan Veteran Homes and runs from 8:30a-11:30a.
Veterans Day 5
On this week's program, host Allison Donahue speaks with Becky Mercier, Trinity Health Breast Imaging Supervisor on the importance of mobile mammography in the battle against breast cancer.
In just one year, the mobile mammography unit at Trinity Health Grand Rapids has completed over 2,000 breast screenings and diagnosed 13 patients. The 40-foot bus, equipped with top-quality 3-D imaging capability, provides increased access to care in our community by visiting neighborhoods, partnering with organizations, and making breast care convenient.
In 2020, nearly half of eligible women in Grand Rapids’ racial and ethnically diverse neighborhoods didn’t have access to mammograms. The unit is committed to combatting this lack of reach, and they’ve begun to work towards it in the first year.
More info: Trinity Health Mobile Mammography
On this week's episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Allison Donahue, program manager at The Rapidian about the Rapidian's Mayoral Debate on Monday, October 21 at Wealthy Theatre.
Allison previews the debate featuring Grand Rapids mayoral candidates former state representative David LaGrand and former Grand Rapids commissioner Senita Lenear.
More Online atThe Rapidian
On this week's episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Ryan Waalkes, the founder and executive director of Bridge Street Ministries
Ryan joined us to discuss the origins of Bridge Street Ministries' program and its focus on discipleship and youth development, especially for middle schoolers with “high potential.”
The mission statement of Bridge Street Ministries states, “We believe young people are image bearers of God with inherent value and the capacity to cultivate thriving within their communities. Our programs reflect this, focusing on equipping and empowering youth throughout their middle school, high school, and post-high school years."
You can make a donation to support the efforts of their programming or learn more about how you can get involved via the link below.
Online: Bridge Street Ministries
On the program this week, we welcome Gaby Cordova, Director of Engagement, to the Hispanic Center of West Michigan.
Gaby joined us for an update on some important events that the Hispanic Center will be sponsoring later this year, especially in early 2025, when they will host a large Latinx Youth Conference at GRCC.
Gaby also informed us that the Hispanic Center is collecting winter coats for both children and adults for a distribution event on Saturday, November 16.
Coats can be dropped off at the Hispanic Center through Friday, November 15.
Founded in 1978, the Hispanic Center aims to provide unmet social services to the Hispanic Community in Greater West Michigan.
Located in the heart of Roosevelt Park, the largest Latino neighborhood in Grand Rapids, the Hispanic Center serves over 30,000 individuals annually.
They seek to address the needs of Latinos in West Michigan.
The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan is a non-profit 501(c) (3) community-based organization.
Online: Hispanic Center of West Michigan
On the program this week, host Allison Donahue welcomes Katy Hoffman, the Executive Director of Garfield Park Neighborhoods Association.
Their mission is to preserve and improve their neighborhood's unique human and physical characteristics through resident involvement.
Members are committed to equitable and inclusive programming, ensuring that everyone feels like a supportive community member regardless of where in the neighborhood they live or what language they speak.
Online:
Garfield Park Neighborhoods Association
This week on the program, Phil Tower talks with Josh Mosey, KDL's Digital Marketing Strategist and leader of the Write Michigan team. Kent District Library recently announced its thirteenth annual Write Michigan Short Story Contest, which drew over 1,150 entries last year.
Michigan writers of all ages are invited to enter, with separate categories for youth, teens, and adults. Winning entries will be published, and the top writers will receive cash prizes.
Stories can be submitted at writemichigan.org through Saturday, November 30
Online: Kent District Library
On the program this week, Phil Tower speaks with Paul Soltysiak - Vice-President and Co-Founder of Fans Of Valley Field, and Steve Tibbe - Chief Officer of Fans Of Valley Field.
Fans of Valley Field is a grassroots effort to restore and revitalize Sullivan Field (originally named Valley Field), a historic baseball field located on the West Side of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The field opened in 1937 on Grand Rapids’ west side.
The organization's long-term plan is to restore, revive, and give the historic ballpark a new sense of purpose through a coordinated effort between private and public partnerships.
Online: Fans of Valley Field
On this episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes Lisa Knight, board chair for the Grand Rapids African American Arts and Music Festival and a city commissioner for Grand Rapids’ 2nd Ward.
The festival will be held on Saturday, September 14, from noon to 10 p.m. at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids.
The Grand Rapids African American Arts and Music Festival is an annual festival celebrating African-American art, live music, dance, culture, and people.
More information can be found online:
The Grand Rapids African American Arts and Music Festival
On the program this week, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Julie Brunson, executive director of HOPE Gardens, a local nonprofit based in Wyoming, MI.
HOPE Gardens was established nine years ago with the mission of teaching nature-based gardening, a sustainable, cost-effective, and organic method.
Their main focus is establishing educational gardens in schools, which not only teach about nature-based gardening but also provide engaging and interactive learning experiences for students from kindergarten through high school.
Their staff spends significant time in schools, fostering in students a passion for growing their own food.
To date, they have 13 gardens in the Wyoming area and hope to add more in the future.
Online: HOPE Gardens
On the program this week, host Allison Donahue spoke with Ruben Ramos, president of the Mexican Heritage Association.
The Mexican Heritage Association exists to promote and educate the public about Mexican culture, customs, history, traditions, and the contributions of Americans with Mexican Heritage through promoting and participating in community events and services.
Ruben joined Allison to preview Fiesta Mexicana, happening September 13-15th on Calder Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids.
Fiesta Mexicana is the annual, vibrant celebration of Mexican culture in West Michigan.
Festivities include the popular "Grito de Independencia" ceremony, where the festival leaders honor the heroes of the Mexican community.
Online:
Fiesta Mexicana
Mexican Heritage Association of West Michigan
On this week's episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower spoke with Jason Wheeler, co-founder of The Great Lakes Music Camp, a talented musician and founder of The Round Creek String Band.
Jason told us that the 7th year of The Great Lakes Music Camp is honored to return to the beautiful shoreline of Lake Michigan at Camp Blodgett, October 3-6, 2024
GLMC features some of the finest music and vocal instructors in the nation.
Jason stressed that The Great Lakes Music Camp is meant for all skill levels and all walks of life and offers a wide curriculum, several hosted jams, small group picking sessions, Q&A time with instructors, and live performances.
For campers who attend, it is created to be a one-of-a-kind experience for all. By design, classes are small so all campers have personal time with the instructors.
Jason urged that the camp has very limited availability.
More info online: The Great Lakes Music Camp
On this week's episode episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Janet Zahn, co-chair, of Grand Rapids Climate Coalition.
The Grand Rapids Climate Coalition is a growing alliance of individuals, community groups, neighborhood associations, nonprofits, faith groups, businesses, and educational institutions.
The Grand Rapids Climate Coalition's focus is mobilizing collective power to ensure equitable access to a clean, healthy, just, and livable community and climate.
Janet reminded us that climate change impacts everyone and almost everything: food, health care, air and water quality, transportation, housing, jobs, and the economy.
Climate change can make groceries, utilities, and housing cost more and force out our lower-income neighbors as rich folks flee here from climate disaster locations.
Much of this is already happening in the United States. It will happen more and more in Michigan. All of us will be affected; many of us already are.
GR Climate Coalition's Top 5 Priorities
Right now, our work is centered on these priorities:
1) Implement a Climate Voter Campaign.
2) Advocate for increased recycling and municipal composting.
3) Mobilize around Community Solar Legislation.
4) Promote electrification of homes through IRA funding.
5) Support efforts to influence food policy and improve green transportation.
Online: Grand Rapids Climate Coalition
On this week's program, WYCE station manager Phil Tower welcomes Daryl Reece, co-founder, along with his wife, Debra Reece, of the Pieces of Reeces Foundation.
Pieces of Reeces Foundation is again presenting the annual Piecing Together Unity Festival on Saturday, August 17, at Rosa Parks Circle and downtown Grand Rapids.
The festival runs from 1 to 8 p.m. It will feature several vendors and community organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids. There will also be kids' and family activities, live music, several food trucks, and much more.
Pieces of Reeces Foundation has three basic tenets:
Providing Basic Support through essential resources such as food, clothing, and shelter to ensure that every child's basic needs are met, allowing them to focus on their education and personal growth.
Pieces of Reeces also enhances community engagement. By fostering a sense of community and belonging, we help youth build meaningful relationships and social connections that can positively impact their lives.
Daryl said the foundation also believes in supporting young people on their entrepreneurial journey, especially in the skilled trades, whether it's being a cosmetologist, a welder, a plumber, an electrician, a building contractor, or many other skilled trades.
The Pieces of Reeces Foundation strongly believes in supporting these efforts. Daryl transitioned from a factory job to owning a successful barber shop. He later launched the craft spirit brand Stock Da Bar vodka, emphasizing community support and philanthropy.
More info: Piecing Together Unity Festival
On this week's program, host Phil Tower speaks with Noemi Gonzalez, Community Engagement Coordinator with Grandville Avenue for Arts and Humanities(GAAH).
Grandville Avenue for Arts and Humanities is once again sponsoring Girls Rock! Grand Rapids.
2024 marks the 11th year of Girls Rock! Grand Rapids camp and the staff at GAAH are excited to continue the joy of creating music and empowering young musicians!
Noemi Gonzalez told us there are still some critical volunteer needs and opportunities to meet amazing people and youth.
Girls Rock! Grand Rapids is also looking for a business or individual to underwrite the cost of lunch for all 50 campers and staff on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.
If you know of someone or a business interested in helping to cover the cost of lunch on Tuesday during camp or by volunteering, visit https://pointapp.org/orgs/2332 to sign up, or contact Noemi at ngonzalez@gaah.org for more information.
Online: Girls Rock Grand Rapids
In this week's program, Phil Tower speaks with Jennifer Kasper, assistant director with MobileGR.
We covered a number of issues in our conversation, including some soon to happen. Parking increases at meters and city own parking ramps for the city of grand Rapids, we also discussed the use of bikes and electric scooters, as well as DAH Routes, riding the Rapid and the cities effort at creating calmer neighborhoods, using transportation solutions.
Mobile GR is a City of Grand Rapids department that works to provide safe, reliable, affordable, and diverse transportation options.
Mobile GR operates city-owned parking systems and maintains many aspects of transportation and safety infrastructure within the City of Grand Rapids and Kent County.
Online: Mobile GR
On this weeks episode, we speak with John Gorney, Director of Public Works for the City of Grand Rapids
The City of Grand Rapids has partnered with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), The Recycling Partnership, and Prairie Robotics to launch a six-month pilot project. This innovative initiative utilizes high-tech cameras, global positioning systems, and computers on city recycling trucks. The aim is to revolutionize our recycling process, making it more efficient and effective.
In this project, Grand Rapids will utilize the technology provided by Prairie Robotics to retrofit the city’s recycling collection trucks with camera technology, global positioning systems, and computers to scan material as it is mechanically dumped from each recycling cart into the truck. The technology recognizes unacceptable items, such as plastic bags, polystyrene foam, yard waste, and trash. The truck flags such items in real-time, allowing the City of Grand Rapids to send customized feedback via a postcard or digital notification to individual households with information about how they can recycle properly.
Recycling Fun Facts: The national average recycling rate is 32%. Michigan's current recycling rate is at 21% and the City of Grand Rapids recycling rate is at 30%.
Residents can learn more about the program here
On this week's episode, host Phil Tower(in for Allison Donahue) speaks with Bruce Doll, Vice President of the Fallasburg Historical Society, and Bruce Ling, Musician/Band Leader, a long-time supporter of the Fallasburg Historical Society.
The third annual Fallasburg Village Celebration will be held on Saturday from 11 AM to 8 PM in the historic Fallasburg Village. The festival will offer live music from 12 bands, a large artisan village, family fun and games, food vendors, educational opportunities, a tractor show, a classic car show, and more! Santa Claus will also visit on July 27.
Online: Fallasburg Village Celebration
On this week's program, Phil Tower speaks with Veronica Horsley-Pettigrew, the Community Outreach and Marketing Supervisor at Care Resources, and Karen Altom, the office manager with Care Resources Christmas, about their Christmas in July effort for older persons served by their programs.
Care Resources is a West Michigan-based program for people 55 years of age or older that promotes healthy, independent living and helps keep people who wish to live independently out of nursing homes.
Care Resources is a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (aka, PACE).
PACE is a federal- and state-funded program throughout the country. The PACE model is centered on the belief that it is better for you and your family to be served in your own community whenever possible. PACE uses Medicare and Medicaid funds to cover all of your medically necessary care and services.
During "Christmas In July," Care Resources is asking people to donate personal hygiene products, activity books and household essentials so they can support the seniors they serve.
You can check out their Amazon wish list and make donations that way online.
Their Christmas in July gift drive will help them stock their Bingo Store and provide other essentials to seniors who rely on Medicaid or Medicare.
Items can be dropped off in person at Care Resources, 4150 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, or at Sabo PR, at 44 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW Suite. 300, Grand Rapids.
Online: Care Resources
This week, host Allison Donahue, program manager at The Rapidian, speaks with Maris Brummel, a Public Health Epidemiologist at the Kent County Health Department.
The Kent County Health Department (KCHD) recently completed its latest Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), highlighting the most pressing health concerns as identified by county residents. The 2023 CHNA revealed four top areas of concern:
•Housing
•Health Insurance
•Access to Medical Care
•Access to Healthy Food
The Community Health Needs Assessment is conducted every three years, and is a collaborative effort supported by the KCHD and local health care system partners, including Corewell Health, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, Pine Rest, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, and University of Michigan Health West.
The 2020 CHNA identified mental health, access to health care, racial inequality, and economic security as the primary issues. This year’s assessment involved a broader and more diverse group of participants, thanks to the engagement efforts of nearly 80 partner organizations and community leaders. Over 5,000 Kent County residents contributed their insights through surveys and focus groups.
Online: The Kent County Health Department's Community Health Needs Assessment
On this week's episode, host Phil Tower welcomes Bob Bernhardt, Pops Conductor, Grand Rapids Symphony and John VanderHaagen, Director of Communications for Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
Once again the Grand Rapids Symphony Will be appearing on three different evenings at the 5/3 Bank Summer Concert Series at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
We spoke with our guests about this unique partnership.
Online: Grand Rapids Symphony
Online: 5/3 Bank Summer Concerts at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Time: 15:58.
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes Jazz McKinney, MA, LLP. Jazz is the executive director of the Grand Rapids Pride Center.
On June 21, 1988, the first Pride Celebration was held at the Monroe Amphitheater in downtown Grand Rapids. Over the last 35+ years, it has now grown into one of the largest one-day events in Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Pride Festival is an event that brings 2-SLGBTQ+ community members, 2-SLGBTQ+ businesses, allies, and organizations together to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the 2-SLGBTQ+ community!
This year's Grand Rapids Pride Festival is Saturday, June 22? Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids. The event is free and open to the public and will run from noon to 10 PM.
Jazz stressed that PrideFest is all about creating a safe, open, and inclusive environment for Grand Rapids community members to celebrate who they are.
More online: Grand Rapids Pride Center.
On this week's program, host Phil Tower welcomes Missy Summers, Executive Director, Festival of the Arts, Grand Rapids.
Mark your calendars! The Festival of the Arts is back, and it's happening from June 7th to 9th in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, MI. Don't miss out on this exciting event that brings together art, music, and food in one vibrant celebration!
This year's Festival is a melting pot of activities, offering something for everyone: live music performances to art exhibitions, from culinary delights to creative workshops!
Festival of the Arts 2024 will showcase Western Michigan artists, live performers, food vendors, sponsors, and Festival goers will see their favorite traditional activities as well as new surprises. There will also be four live performance stages with all types of music and comedy, over 20 cultural food booths, visual art exhibits and activities, and 50+ artisan craftsmen at Artisan Village.
Missy told us it takes literally hundreds of volunteers to make festival happen and volunteers are welcome and needed all the way up to the start of festival. Information on volunteering is on the Festival Website.
Don't miss West Michigan’s unofficial start of summer...Festival of the Arts Grand Rapids!
More Online: Festival of the Arts
On this wee'ks episode, host Allison Donahue speaks with Amy Acton, CEO of The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors and Buses By The Beach Presiden, Beth Smit,h about the upcoming bus benefit May 24-27 (Memorial Day Weekend)
Bus Benefit is presented by: Buses by the Beach at Smiling Acres in Trufant, MI. It is a fundraiser for the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.
Members of Buses By The Beach are a group of VW van lovers. Their events draw VW bus owners and their families from all over the USA and Canada. Since 2002, Buses By The Beach has combined a love of Volkswagen-style camping with raising money for the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. The Phoenix Society is the world’s largest burn support organization based in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Phoenix Society serves burn survivors, loved ones, burn care professionals, researchers, and anyone else committed to empowering the burn community and building a safer world. Phoenix Society is now the leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people affected by a burn injury.
Online: Buses By The Beach
Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors
On this week's program, host Allison Donahue welcomes Dana Romero-Vogg, development coordinator for donor communications with YWCA West Central Michigan.
The YWCA West Central Michigan exists to inspire hope and healing.
Where racism and sexism give rise to domestic and sexual violence, staff at the YWCA West Central Michigan transform lives with expert services for victims, education to end those things that fuel abuse, and advocating for public policy that translates the YWCA's mission into law.
Respecting the fullness of each person’s identity and the multiple facets that make up the whole of one’s experience, the YWCA’s staff work together to seamlessly connect those who come to us to the range of services they need.
All YWCA services are available in person. Some are available by phone and video as well.
The YWCA 24-Hour, Confidential Helpline is 616-454-9922. (454-YWCA)
Online: YWCA West Central Michigan
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue speaks with Sasha Wolff, the founder and Executive Director of "Still I Run."
Still I Run is a community of runners and mental health warriors determined to take control of our physical and mental health while also breaking the stigma surrounding people who live with a mental illness.
Still I Run is the country’s only non-profit running community that works to promote the benefits of running for mental health while also defeating the stigma, raising awareness around the topic, and help others get started running for their mental health.
Sasha also shared that Still I Run operates solely on proceeds from merch sales and donations. All programs and outreach are donor supported.
Online-Still I Run
On this week's program, host Alison Donahue welcomes Thomas Gottschalk, food truck owner-operator and CEO of Collar Brass Solutions, and Lauren D’Angelo, also a food truck owner and operator as well as secretary of the Grand Rapids Food Truck Association.
The Grand Rapids Food Truck Association is dedicated to the promotion and education of food truck culture in and around Grand Rapids and the West Michigan region.
Online: The Grand Rapids Food Truck Association
On this wee's episode, host Allison Donahue speaks with Cole Williams, Executive Director of The Delta Project, and Joel Van Kuiken, cofounder of the Delta Project.
The Delta Project began in 2017 with a desire to use simple human storytelling to help people see their circumstances from a different perspective.
The Delta Project is committed to amplifying the stories of students caught in the cycle of incarceration.
On May 11th, The Delta Project sponsors a night of rhythmic gratitude at Wealthy Theatre in Grand Rapids with legendary reggae artist Mykal Rose on May 11th. Mykal Rose will perform. hits from Black Uhuru, energized by special guests Loftside Stories and Isobel. The gratitude concert is more than a concert.
The event was organized as a vibrant tribute to community and charity, supporting The Delta Project. Doors open at 6:00 pm, with tickets available for $35 in advance or $40 at the door.
Online: The Delta Project
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower for a conversation on why community radio is unique and the importance of listener donations during WYCE's spring on-air fund drive.
As the region's only volunteer-run, listener-supported community radio station, fundraising is a critically important part of keeping the station on the air to support its mission of enhancing and enriching the local music scene and supporting underserved and overlooked nonprofit organizations in the West Michigan area.
Online: WYCE Radio
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes Austin McWilliams, Choir Director at Fountain Street Church in Grand Rapids. Austin also serves as the Director of Choral Activities at Aquinas College and is the conductor of an upcoming performance at Fountain Street Church: The Bernstein Mass: A Theatre Piece for Singers, Players, and Dancers. The Bernstein Mass is being presented by the Fountain St. Church Oratorio Choir on April 27, 2024.
Online: The Bernstein Mass: A Theatre Piece for Singers, Players, and Dancers.
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue speaks with Monk Mattheus, culture and training coordinator with The Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation and organizer with the 1st annual Music Econ Summit takes place on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation to support entrepreneurship and wealth generation for hard-working music creatives.
The Music Econ Summit brings together music industry experts, copyright lawyers, successful independent artists, entrepreneurs, and other professionals for a day of education, discussion, and networking focused on sustainable income strategies and upward economic mobility.
The Music Econ Summit is all about guiding Michigan's local independent musicians and producers into a sustainable career or side hustle that provides economic freedom and autonomy. The summit is organized to help aspiring musicians and creatives gain valuable knowledge to move their careers forward.
The Music Econ Summit is organized and hosted by the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation, Push the City Cypher, the Michigan Music Alliance, and Triumph Music Academy.
Music Econ Summit
Sponsorship Opportunities:
monk@grcct.com
On this week's episode, host Phil Tower welcomes Mariah Malone, events coordinator with John Ball Zoo.
The Grand Rapids Lantern Festival returns to John Ball Zoo on April 10 and is expected to be another record-setting event for the zoo.
John Ball Zoo is the first and only place in Michigan where you can see these incredible works of art. The lantern festival features handcrafted Asian lantern displays that will illuminate the Zoo and tell the intersecting story of wildlife and Asian culture.
Mariah also spoke with us about Party for the Planet on April 20th, an event that celebrates Earth Day at John Ball Zoo. The event welcomes community partners to engage with guests and encourage them to learn how to take positive action to help save native habitats for wildlife.
Online: John Ball Zoo
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue speaks with Gairen Tembreull, Director of Albatross Aviary in Grand Rapids.
Albatross Aviary is a unique avian rescue and sanctuary dedicated to providing permanent care, shelter, and rehabilitation for companion parrots and other exotic birds when rehoming options are scarce.
Albatross Aviary is a bird refuge mainly focusing on exotic companion birds like parrots, including parakeets, cockatoos, macaws, and other Psittacine species. They typically accept most companion or exotic birds and other captive avian species.
Online: Albatross Aviary
On this week's episode, host Allison Donahue, program manager at The Rapidian, speaks with Guest Amy Thomas-Mellema, Executive Director of Revive & Thrive Project.
Revive & Thrive Project was founded by nutritionist and cancer survivor Wendy Borden. After learning about the Ceres Community Project, Wendy made a heartfelt commitment to model the program in Grand Rapids.
Revive & Thrive’s first nutritious meals were home-delivered to 12 individuals with cancer on May 15, 2015.
Key elements of Revive & Thrive Project programs include:
- Supporting individuals and families dealing with a health crisis with low-cost, home- delivered meals, nutrition education, and nurturing support
- Involving young people as teen chefs and providing hands-on training to learn healthy eating, build confidence, job skills through experiential education
- Supporting and promoting local food systems
- Educating the broader community about healthy eating and living.
- Providing a multi-generational and multi-cultural program to connect people of all ages and from all walks of life to one another and to their value as an integral part of the communit
Online: Revive & Thrive Project
On this week's show, host Allison Donahue welcomes Guests: Meghan Distel, Broadway GR President and CEO, and Jennifer Pascua, Broadway GR Marketing Director.
Broadway Grand Rapids was established in September of 1988 and opened the first season with South Pacific
The mission of Broadway Grand Rapids is to bring the very best of national touring Broadway productions to Grand Rapids.
The audiences attracted by this top-notch programming become an economic catalyst for the community, not just at the theater but at area restaurants, hotels, and other cultural venues. BGR leverages access to performances and performers to create educational opportunities for students at schools and colleges and unique backstage opportunities for service clubs and other area organizations.
All Broadway Grand Rapids presentations take place in DeVos Performance Hall in downtown Grand Rapids.
Online: Broadway Grand Rapids
On this week's program, host. Allison Donahue welcomes John Vanderhaagen, communications director at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
John spoke with Allison about the featured art exhibit at the gardens, as well as the always popular upcoming butterflies exhibition, the summer concert series, and the number of volunteer opportunities at Frederik Meijer Gardens
Online: Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
On this week's program, host. Allison Donahue speaks with Zack Berends, the festival and events manager for Laughfest and Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids sponsors the 14th annual LaughFest from March 6 to 10.
This year's event features comedians such as Tammy Pescatelli, Josh Johnson, Piff the Magic Dragon, and Demetri Martin. Comedian, actor, and author Tom Papa is set to headline the Gilda’s Club annual Red Door Gala on March 14 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Other Laughfest events include LaughFest: Night at the Museum, LaughFest Trivia Night of Stars, KaraJOKEe, Pop Scholars, River City Improv, and The Dirty Show. Proceeds from LaughFest, presented by Gun Lake Casino, and LaughFest’s High Five Campaign benefit the free cancer and grief emotional health support program offered through Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids.
Online: LaughFest
In this week's program, host Allison Donahue (Program Manager for The Rapidian) continues her conversation with Rodney Brown, the founder of GRMIFI. (The Grand Rapids Media Initiative & Film Incubator). During the program, Allison and Rodney discussed the utilization of film and media as a means to tell the untold stories of Grand Rapids and GRMIFI's role in cultivating the next generation of local filmmakers. They explored the themes in Todd E. Robinson's book "A City within a City" and the concept of narrative justice that helps guide GRMIFI's work.
The work of the GRMIFI (The Grand Rapids Media Initiative & Film Incubator) supports dynamic storytellers, capturing diverse Grand Rapids narratives from past and present about strategizing, organizing and building to thrive amidst the zero-sum mentalities, misdirections and/or niceties about issues of race and power in this region.
*This is part two of a two-part conversation.
Online: GRMIFI
In this week's program, host Allison Donahue (Program Manager for The Rapidian) welcomes Rodney Brown, the founder of GRMIFI. (The Grand Rapids Media Initiative & Film Incubator)
During the program, Allison and Rodney discussed the utilization of film and media as a means to tell the untold stories of Grand Rapids, GRMIFI's role in cultivating the next generation of local filmmakers, and they explored the themes in Todd E. Robinson's book "A City within a City" and the concept of narrative justice that helps guide GRMIFI's work.
The work of the GRMIFI (The Grand Rapids Media Initiative & Film Incubator) supports dynamic storytellers, capturing diverse Grand Rapids narratives from past and present about strategizing, organizing and building to thrive amidst the zero-sum mentalities, misdirections and/or niceties about issues of race and power in this region.
*This is part one of a two-part conversation.
Online: GRMIFI
In this week's episode, host Alison Donohue speaks with Pattijean McCahill, director of marketing and development, at Feeding America West Michigan.
Feeding America West Michigan is at the center of a united community effort driven by the core belief that hunger is unacceptable and meals can change lives.
Feeding America West Michigan works to gather and distribute food to relieve hunger and increase food security in West Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.
Feeding America West Michigan serves people today through an expansive hunger-relief network of hundreds of food pantries and meal programs across 40 counties. They are one of 200 food banks in Feeding America’s nationwide network.
Online: Feeding America West Michigan
On the program this week, Allison Donahue speaks with Janay Brower, Founder and CEO of Public Thread
Public Thread is a West Michigan-based manufacturer and retailer that works with with upcycled textiles and materials.
Public Thread moved last week into a 10,000-square-foot space at 446 Cesar Chavez Ave. SW, the start of a new chapter for the fashion accessories company following an extensive search for a new facility.
Public Thread sources waste materials from other companies like billboard companies and transforms their discarded products into consumer goods
Online: Public Thread
Marcial Benavidez - Kent County Welcome Plan Collaborative Communications Specialist Podcast descriptions:English: In this week's episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes Marcial Benavidez, Kent County Welcome Plan Collaborative Communications Specialist.The Kent County Welcome Plan Collaborative is a multi-organizational group that represents over 50 organizations including local school districts, non-profits, government bodies, and businesses. The WPC is tasked with implementing and advancing Welcome Plan priority areas to help new Americans, immigrants, and refugees get acclimated in West Michigan.
Spanish: En el episodio de esta semana, la presentadora Allison Donahue da la bienvenida a Marcial Benavidez, especialista en comunicaciones del Kent County Welcome Plan Collaborative.
El Kent County Welcome Plan Collaborative es un grupo multiorganizacional que representa a más de 50 organizaciones, incluidos distritos escolares locales, organizaciones sin fines de lucro, organismos gubernamentales y negocios. El WPC tiene la tarea de implementar y promover las áreas prioritarias del Plan de Bienvenida para ayudar a los nuevos estadounidenses, inmigrantes y refugiados a aclimatarse en el oeste de Michigan.
Connect online: Kent County Welcome Plan Collaborative
In this week's episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes Kendsie Channing, Manager of Neighbor Experience for Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. and the Downtown Neighbor Network.
The Downtown Neighbor Network (DNN)'s purpose is to provide a forum to socialize, organize, and ultimately deepen citizen engagement in building/promoting a high-quality residential life in Downtown GR
Kendsie spoke about the importance of building community when living in urban areas, like the downtown neighborhood, Building community to combat isolation and loneliness post-pandemic, and ways to get involved with community events through the DNN.
Online: Downtown Neighbor Network.
In this week's episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes Roger Plaxton, treasurer of the Grand River Folk Arts Society & Roger Kohlenberger, president of the Grand River Folk Arts Society.
The Grand River Folk Arts Society is a nonprofit volunteer organization whose mission is to enrich people’s lives and foster community through traditional music, dance, and song. From folk concerts to contra dances, several options of musical entertainment are available through the organization.
Online: The Grand River Folk Arts Society
In this week's episode, host Allison Donahue welcomes Marie Orttenburger, Advancement Manager, with the Land Conservancy of West Michigan.
The organization's history began in 1976 when four volunteers met to lay out a plan to identify, protect, and care for West Michigan’s natural areas.
They created an organization called the Natural Areas Conservancy of West Michigan (NACOWMI). Early projects included several conservation easements, Saul Lake Bog, Lake Breeze natural area, and an addition to the Saugatuck Dunes State Park. In 1997, the organization’s name was changed to The Land Conservancy of West Michigan, and the projects have continued to grow.
Today, the Land Conservancy of West Michigan is an accredited land trust with an office in Grand Rapids, governed by a board of directors and operated by a professional staff. The mission of the Land Conservancy of West Michigan is to help people protect, enjoy, and care for natural land in West Michigan.
Online: The Land Conservancy of West Michigan
In this weeks program, host Allison Donahue welcomes Fridah Kanini, the founder and CEO of A Glimpse of Africa.
A Glimpse of Africa works in the West Michigan region to ensure that African immigrants and refugees are visible through advocacy, creating a sense of belonging, and breaking language, cultural, and systemic barriers.
A Glimpse of Africa seeks to bring people together for a stronger, united community with shared interests and showcase Africa and her people in a brighter, positive light to educate and change the negative media narratives and also to place African immigrants and Refugees on the map in West Michigan through promoting their culture, businesses, and talents.
You can learn more about their organization here:
A Glimpse of Africa
In this week's episode, host Phil Tower welcomes Monica Hall, the Executive Director, and crime Prevention Organizer with John Ball Area Neighbors in Grand Rapids.
John Ball Area Neighbors Seeks to spread a message of hope and compassion. They believe a single action can make a difference in the community and that collective action can significantly impact the world. Through advocacy and outreach activities, their team works tirelessly each day to contribute their part to the greater good.
Online: John Ball Area Neighbors
In this week's episode, host. Allison Donahue welcomes Gregg Hampshire, the executive director of The Creston Neighborhood Association.
The Creston Neighborhood Association serves the residents of Creston, the largest neighborhood in Grand Rapids.
Since the Creston Neighborhood Association was incorporated in 1979, neighbors have rallied to shape their home community by preserving what is good and changing what needs improvement.
Through CNA, Creston neighbors helped to keep a Grand Rapids Public Library branch in the heart of Creston, Supported strong neighborhood schools by organizing parents and safe routes to school, Collaborated with partners to create Catherine’s Health Center, Organized business owners to revive Creston’s business district, Collaborated with artists & students on public art projects, building bioretention islands along Plainfield Ave-– the first of their kind in Grand Rapids.
Online: Creston Neighborhood Association
In this week's episode, we welcome Jacqueline Scherer, founder and executive director, of The Playground GR.THE PLAYGROUNDgris a local nonprofit, that is committed to bridging the disparities of the racial, gender, cultural, and socioeconomic gaps often found in caregivers/educational institutions and community based programing around the world of play. Play-based support, therapy and awareness continues to be an evidenced tool that sharpens and supports, emotional health, mental health, trauma, grief, and attachment.
The mission of Playground GR is to raise awareness around the emotional and mental health benefits of play.
Online: THE PLAYGROUNDgr
In this week's episode, host, Allison Donahue speaks with Karen Carpenter, Manager of the first-ever Grand Rapids Christkindl Markt, happening at the Grand Rapids downtown market from November 17 through December 23.
The Christkindl Markt is a Christmas Village lined with artisan gift and food vendors, live holiday entertainment, and festive family fun. Inspired by traditional European Markets, Christkindl Markt is Best described as a winter wonderland filled with unique Christmas experiences with an international flair.
Online: Grand Rapids Christkindl Markt
In this week's program, host Allison Donahue welcomes Cindy Foley, Director and CEO of the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
The Grand Rapids Art Museum sees itself as a beacon of the arts in an art-loving city.
GRAM's exhibitions, events, and educational programming span topics, mediums, and genres to connect with and invite a wide variety of audiences. The Grand Rapids Art Museum is an arts venue, resource, and educational institution for the entire Grand Rapids community, the State of Michigan, and beyond.
he Grand Rapids Art Museum.
In this episode of WYCE's Community Connection, host Allison Donahue speaks with Hanna Moulds, a Bookmobile Operator with the Kent District Library.
About KDL:
Kent District Library seeks to challenge the traditional concept of a library. Beyond books to check out, KDL also offers board games, video game consoles, Wi-Fi hotspots, and GoPro cameras.
KDL cardholders have access to one of the largest digital collections in the country, featuring eBooks, eAudiobooks, streaming or downloadable movies, music, games, and even a digital comic book collection.
Online: Kent District Library
We spoke with Tracey McKnight, CEO of Care Resources, on independent living for older adults, In-home care, affordable health services, rehabilitation/therapy gym, and socialization support.
Care Resources is a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE®), a national healthcare program funded by Medicare/Medicaid. They are a community-based program for adults 55 years or older that promotes healthy, independent living and helps prevent nursing home placement.
Their program is all-inclusive concierge care led by skilled primary care providers and an interdisciplinary team with 11 specialties represented. Care Resources embraces physical, mental, and social health, making healthcare accessible and affordable.
Online: Care Resources
We spoke with Laurel Conrad, Program Director with Lowell Arts, about supporting the arts, community arts support, and support of grassroots artists and artisans.
LowellArts connects artists and audiences through the visual and performing arts. Their organization has been growing since its inception in 1977 and is made up of committed arts enthusiasts.
The Lowell Area Arts Council (DBA LowellArts) is a resource for the greater Lowell community, connecting artists and audiences through the visual and performing arts. For over 40 years, LowellArts has promoted and supported artists through exhibitions, performances, and events. LowellArts continues to be a welcoming, vibrant organization, and serves both as a catalyst for local economic development and a source of valuable art experiences for the community.
Online: LowellArts
We spoke with Cathy Holbrook, Executive and Artistic Director of St. Cecilia Music Center, about performing arts, music education, and music appreciation.
St. Cecilia Music Center was established in 1883 by nine Grand Rapids women, the organization was named for the legendary patron saint of music. During the earliest days, members met in each other’s homes and performed for one another. By 1890, the society was sponsoring performances by world-renowned musicians.
Online: SCMC
We spoke with Allison Donahue, Program Manager of The Rapidian, about media literacy, media ownership, citizen, journalism, hyper local news operations, and news deserts.
The Rapidian launched on Sept. 15, 2009 and is a department of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center with funding and support from local businesses and citizens. They are a community journalism news source intended to increase the flow of local news and information in the Grand Rapids community and its neighborhoods.
By providing tools, training, platforms and support, they empower neighborhood residents to report the news from the inside out. They are an outlet for Grand Rapidians to become more than just content consumers but also providers by becoming citizen journalists.
Online: The Rapidian
We spoke with Ben Swayze, Director at Kent County Parks and Recreation, about green spaces, trails and trail systems, development, community outreach, funding of county parks, and accessible recreation for all.
The Kent County Parks Department enriches lives in Kent County by providing outstanding parks, natural areas and trails that are accessible and inclusive for all County residents. The Department achieves this vision through efficient operations, sound stewardship of resources, active community partnerships, and by preparing for the needs of future generations.
Online: Kent County Parks
We spoke with Carla Ludwig, Founder and Executive Director of Hope For Single Moms Grand Rapids, and Taryn Taplin, Event Coordinator, about support systems for single mothers, education, aid for families in poverty, and the resources Hope For Single Moms provides mothers with.
Hope for Single Moms is on a mission to ensure children in single mom families thrive. Their program is for single parents who are full-time students in college or trade school. Their goal is to help parents and their young children develop the educational and family life skills needed to achieve self-sufficiency.
The Hope for Single Moms program uses a teach-a-woman-to-fish approach.It is modeled after what support services would have helped Carla Ludwigs daughter, who was the inspiration for Hope For Single Moms.
Online: Hope For Single Moms
We spoke with Olivia J. Bailey, Development Director at Hope Unexpected, about support for single mothers, unplanned pregnancy, affordable housing and rent, poverty, and access to child care.
Hope Unexpected's mission is achieved by showing mercy, love and grace through hospitality and support through multiple services offered to their clients. Their goal is to bridge the gap and offer support to make success and self-sufficiency possible.
Online: Hope Unexpected
We spoke with Jessica Young, Director of the East Hills Council of Neighbors, about neighborhood crime, LGBTQ+ engagement, affordable housing, and historical homes and preservation.
East Hills has always reached beyond the status quo to address the needs of their community. With the collaboration of passionate neighbors they have worked to build and maintain a beautiful, diverse, friendly and safe place to live, work and play.
Online: East Hills Council of Neighbors
We spoke with Jason Wheeler and Bruce Ling from Great Lakes music camp about performing arts, music, education, the history of stringed instruments, and bluegrass music, square dancing.
Great Lakes Music Camp provides a unique opportunity to study in intimate small groups under award winning musicians and spend the weekend on Michigan’s unbeatable shoreline.
Online: Great Lakes Music Camp
We spoke with Sara Simmonds, Director of Environmental Health, and Joann Hoganson, Director of Community Wellness, at Kent County Health Department on lead poisoning in children, lead abatement in homes in Kent County, safe drinking water, and providing clean water to at risk families.
The Kent County Health Department is responsible for continually assessing the health of the community and ensuring that certain services are available and accessible for its citizens. To this end, the Health Department investigates the causes of disease, epidemics, morbidity and mortality, and environmental health hazards using vital and health statistics for epidemiological studies. KCHD also plans and implements public education and enforces public health laws.
Online: Kent County Health Department
We spoke with Derek Reed, Co-Founder of Rockford’s Rotary Rocks for ShelterBox, about this years music festival that was held in downtown Rockford.
Rotary Rocks held their 2nd annual event on August 22, 2023 at Garden Club Park. The evening featured music from Jack Droppers and the Best Intentions, Low Phase, and Roosevelt Diggs. Fan favorite Roosevelt Diggs won the band competition by garnering the highest number of "votes" via donations for the night. But the big winner was ShelterBox, an international disaster-relief organization. The event raised over $3,100.
Online: Rotary Rocks
We spoke with Chana Edmond-Verley, Executive Director of Vibrant Futures MI, about how Vibrant Futures MI helps people in West Michigan gain access to childcare, affordable childcare, and funding for childcare.
Vibrant Futures creates cradle-to-career opportunities and experiences that hold sacred the vibrant promise and potential in every child, youth, family, and caregiver to ensure more vibrant futures for all. Vibrant Futures aims to ensure more children and families from all walks of life achieve their full potential.
Online: Vibrant Futures MI
We spoke with John McNaughton, Executive Director at Grand Rapids Public Library, about resources the library offers for residents of Grand Rapids, whether that be through checking out books and media or through the plethora of events they host.
The library is our community’s source of accessible information, resources, and programs. They offer a wide selection of books, movies, music, that can be checked out physically and/or downloaded digitally. The library also offers a wide range of programming for people of all ages and interests.
Online: Grand Rapids Public Library
We spoke with Evelyn-Esparza-Gonzalez, Executive Director, and Gabriella Cordova, Communications & Development Director, of the West Michigan Hispanic Center about their goals of empowering West Michigans Hispanic community.
Located in the heart of the Roosevelt Park, the largest Latino neighborhood in Grand Rapids, the Hispanic Center directly serves more than 30,000 individuals annually. Not limited to Grand Rapids, they seek to address the needs of Latinos in West Michigan. The staff is largely bilingual and multi-cultural. Their staff understands the needs of their Latino neighbors, working to connect with them, and to achieve self-sufficiency together.
The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan is a non-profit 501(c) (3) community-based organization.
Online: Hispanic Center of West Michigan
We spoke with professor and author Dr. Randal Jelks about institutional racism, impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., race, relations, black owned businesses, black history and more.
Randal Maurice Jelks is an award-winning author, documentary film producer, and professor. He is the author of four books. His writings have appeared in the Boston Review, the Los Angeles Review of Books, blogs, journals, and periodicals.Randal Maurice Jelks is represented by Crichton & Associates Inc.
Online: Randal Maurice Jelks
We spoke with professor and author Dr. Randal Jelks about institutional racism, impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., race, relations, black owned businesses, black history and more.
Randal Maurice Jelks is an award-winning author, documentary film producer, and professor. He is the author of four books. His writings have appeared in the Boston Review, the Los Angeles Review of Books, blogs, journals, and periodicals.Randal Maurice Jelks is represented by Crichton & Associates Inc.
Online: Randal Maurice Jelks
We spoke with Dave Bulkowski, Executive Director of Disability Advocates of Kent County, about serving people of West Michigan who live with disabilities, the history of Disability Advocates and more.
Disability Advocates strives to eliminate systemic barriers and enhance programs so that people with disabilities can live the self-directed life they choose. They look to aid in community benefits by becoming more accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for all. They have become recognized locally and across the state, specifically for their transit advocacy, education, technical assistance on accessibility, and Universal Design through our Absolutely Accessible Kent program.
Online: Disability Advocates of Kent County
We spoke with Noemi Gonzalez, Girls Rock GR's Community Engagement Coordinator at the Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities about opportunities for girls in the music scene in Grand Rapids.
Girls Rock! Grand Rapids (GR!GR) is a week long summer camp that exists to empower girls and gender-expansive youth through music. Each year, kids and teens at camp get to participate in instrument exploration, workshops, band forming, song writing, and logo and album art creation. They also get to record their new songs in a professional recording studio and then perform them live in front of an audience.
Online: GR!GR
We spoke with the League of Women Voters Greater Grand Rapids Chapter President Courtney Winell and Board Secretary Kristin Brace about voter rights, voting rules, and regulations, election safety, voting laws in Michigan, and their get out the vote efforts.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization working to protect andexpand voting rights and ensure everyone is represented in our democracy. They empower voters and defend democracy through advocacy, education, and litigation, at the local, state, and national levels.
Online: League of Women Voters
We spoke with Paul Soltysiak, Vice President and Co-Founder, and Steve Tibbe, Chief Officer, about historical preservation, arts funding, neighborhood improvement, baseball funding at Valley Field.
Fans of Valley Field exists to preserve the heritage and promote the usage of Sullivan (Valley) Field. They intend to create a year-round community space for the surrounding neighborhoods and all of Grand Rapids. They seek to expand their offerings to include numerous events. Fans of Valley Field works closely with the City of Grand Rapids to rebuild, expand and maintain this community gem. They seek to restore the park to its former grandeur while making it the premier community gathering space in our city.
Online: Fans of Valley Field
We spoke with Jazz McKinney, Executive Director of the Grand Rapids Pride Center, about pride month, LGBTQ+ equality, gender, equity, transgender education, housing challenges and equal employment opportunities.
The Grand Rapids Pride Center works to create positive change for the 2-SLGBTQ+ community by breaking down barriers, creating awareness, providing inclusive services, and bridging relationships.
Online: Grand Rapids Pride Center
We spoke with Steve Salter, President of The Killer Blues Headstone Project, about blues music, blues culture and musicians, and headstones for blues musicians in unmarked graves.
The Killer Blues Headstone Project exists to provide headstones
for blues musicians lying in unmarked graves. They have placed over 150 headstones in 14 years.
In 2009, The Killer Blues Headstone Project became a non-profit 501(c)(3).
Online: Killer Blues Headstone Project
We spoke with Missy Summers, Executive Director of Festival Grand Rapids, about the arts and culture appreciation, performing arts and music appreciation, community outreach, and food and beverage culture.
Festival began in 1970 – as a celebration of the arts in West Michigan, inspired by the 1969 installation of Alexander Calder’s “La Grande Vitesse” (“The Great Swiftness”). From the beginning, the vibrant red stabile served as the backdrop to Festival, as well as a symbol of the City of Grand Rapids.
Festival looks to offer West Michigan an opportunity to experience the best local performers, artists and craftspeople in an environment that is free, accessible and welcoming to all.
Online: Festival GR
We spoke with Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss about city funding, affordable housing funding, public safety, Homelessness, Mental health co- response in policing.
Mayor Rosalynn Bliss became the City of Grand Rapids’ first female Mayor when she took office on January 1, 2016. She was re-elected for a second term in November 2019. She previously served as a Second Ward City Commissioner for 10 years.
As Mayor, she is committed to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, working to create a cleaner, healthier and safer community and has a commitment to addressing disparities in our community to make sure that Grand Rapids is a great place for everyone.
Online: City of Grand Rapids
In this episode we welcome Brianna Shahly, Communications and Marketing Coordinator of the Humane Society of West Michigan.
Brianna touches on animal welfare, pet adoption, spaying and neutering of pets, pet rescue, and feral cats.
The Humane Society of West Michigans mission is to promote the humane treatment and responsible care of animals in West Michigan through education, example, placement & protection. Humane Society of West Michigan serves Kent County, other counties in Michigan, and other states overpopulated with companion animals in need of homes. They are the area’s leading animal welfare organization, with a vision to build a healthy, safe, and compassionate community where all animals receive the care they deserve.
Online: The Humane Society of West Michigan
In this episode, we welcome Mariah Malone, Communication Specialist with John Ball Zoo.
Mariah spoke with us about the Zoo's Lantern Festival is a one-mile light tour through John Ball Zoo. The festival features handcrafted Asian lantern displays that will illuminate the Zoo and tell the intersecting story of wildlife and Asian culture.
John Ball Zoo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation committed to the advancement of public education on the need for wildlife conservation and preservation. On January 1, 2014, Kent County, the owner of the Zoo, and the John Ball Zoo Society unified their respective operations at the Zoo to create John Ball Zoo.
Online: John Ball Zoo
In this week's program, we welcome two members of the Grand Rapids Prime Time Brewers Association: Jeremy Gavin and Mies Martin, President of the GR Prime Time Brewers.
According to the team of club historians, GR PrimeTime Brewers goes back to the late 70's. Originally, this loosely associated group of homebrewers would sporadically meet to share beers and generally try to get others to drink their garbage.
By 1994 the club registered with the AHA(American Home Brewers Association) as an official club. This was the first officially registered club in the greater Grand Rapids, Michigan area.
Today, GR PrimeTime Brewers maintains more connections and alumni in the Michigan professional beer scene than any other club.
The group meets at 7 p.m. every 3rd Wednesday at a rotating location throughout the year, and you do not need to be a member to attend any of our meetings or outings.
Online: Grand Rapids Prime Time Brewers
In this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes GRPD's newly named Deputy Chief, Joseph Trigg.
Incoming Deputy Chief Trigg has held additional duty assignments as a Field Training Officer, a member of the department’s Board of Awards, and an advisor to Grand Rapids Police Explorer Post 1871, working with young people who are interested in learning more about policing as a profession; he is a member of the department’s Peer Support Team.
Online: Grand Rapids Police Department
This week's program welcomes Sara Olson, marketing and communications manager with the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
We spoke with Sara about their Sensory-Friendly Museum Night at the GRPM.
During a Sensory-Friendly Museum Night, the Museum adapts sounds, lighting, and activities within the current exhibits to create a low-sensory experience for the evening.
One in every sixty-eight children is on the autism spectrum, with another diagnosed every 20 minutes.
Online: Grand Rapids Public Museum
In this week's program, we welcome Broadway Grand Rapids and Meghan Distel, their executive director.
Broadway GR celebrates its 35th year with a stellar lineup of performances, including the Michigan premieres of “MJ” the musical, a revival of “Funny Girl.” Plus “Tina,” the Tina Turner musical, and Disney’s “Aladdin.”
“To Kill a Mockingbird," a new critically acclaimed play will debut next year as well. "Les Misérables” and “Wicked,” are also a part of the series.
Broadway Grand Rapids was established in September of 1988 and opened its first season with South Pacific.
Broadway Grand Rapids' mission is to bring the very best of national touring Broadway productions to Grand Rapids. The Broadway series has included nearly every major title to hit the stage from Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera to Wicked and Hamilton.
Online: Broadway Grand Rapids
In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Guillermo Cisneros, President & CEO of the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Founded in 2003, The West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to working with all members
of the community to increase the economic advancement of Hispanic-owned businesses and to assist the
professional growth of Hispanics in West Michigan.
Online: West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
In this episode we welcome Liz Nienhuis, executive director of Gracious Grounds located in Grand Haven, MI.
Gracious Grounds is a nonprofit housing community that supports successful independent living for adults with intellectual disabilities.
Gracious Grounds was established in 2013 and has been serving adults with disabilities for over 10 years.
Gracious Grounds has 3 housing locations with a total capacity of 50 residents, plus 6 Resident Assistants who live on campus.
Online: Gracious Grounds
On this week's program, we spoke with Lisa Hegenbart, the Executive Director of Girls On The Run West Michigan.
Girls on the Run® exists to enhance participants' social, emotional, and physical skills to navigate life experiences successfully.
Girls On The Run seeks to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running and interactive lessons to meet the unique needs of participants of all abilities and backgrounds.
Online: Girls On The Run West Michigan
In this week's program, we speak with Sydney Baxter, marketing and communications manager at Blandford Nature Center.
Sugarbush allows visitors to experience the science of maple syrup production in the heart of Blandford’s Sugarbush! The educational program helps visitors identify maple trees and learn the history of maple syrup production through the centuries.
The mission of Blandford is to engage and empower the community through enriching experiences in nature. Their vision is a thriving, diverse community that supports a healthy, natural world.
Online: Blandford Nature Center
This episode features a conversation between WYCE Station Manager PhilTower and Lynne Brown Tepper, Executive and Artistic Director at Circle Theatre Grand Rapids.
Lynne spoke about the rich history of Circle Theatre here in Grand Rapids and profiled their upcoming season.
Circle Theatre is the only community theatre in the West Michigan area that specializes in summer theatre. The Theatre was founded in order to allow community performers of all ages to continue honing their craft and to provide another opportunity for directors, choreographers, musicians, designers, and technicians to gain employment.
Online: Circle Theatre Grand Rapids
In this week's episode, we spoke with Melissa Perrin, Program Director with The Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan (
Melissa told us that the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan (DSAWM) was formed in 1985 by six couples who had children with Down syndrome. Their original aim was to provide support and share knowledge with other families. Through the years, the goals of the Association have broadened to encompass advocacy, public awareness, and the distribution of information relevant to Down syndrome.
We also spoke about some of the celebrations associated with World Down Syndrome Day.
Online: Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan
In this episode, station manager Phil Tower speaks with Dave Ringler, recently elected president of the Michigan Brewers Guild.
The Michigan Brewers Guild exists to promote and protect the craft beer industry in Michigan. While most of the Guild’s activities are focused on the promotion of the industry, they also exist to protect the interests of Michigan’s brewers.
Online: The Michigan Brewers Guild
In this episode, we speak with Zack Berends, events and festival manager for Gilda’s LaughFest presented by Gildas Club Grand Rapids.
Gilda’s LaughFest, is the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter. Over the years, it has earned a reputation for being one of the nation’s marquee events for both participants and artists.
This major Midwest festival is based in Grand Rapids and includes events throughout West Michigan. Gilda’s LaughFest was created by Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids and launched in March 2011 to celebrate laughter for the health of it, the festival features stand-up, improv, showcases, and a variety of seriously funny stuff.
Online: Gilda’s LaughFest
In this episode, we speak with John Vanderhagen, vice president of communications with Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
John told us that at the gardens they are constantly seeking to bring new experiences, and joy for each visitor.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park exists to promote the enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of gardens, sculpture, the natural environment, and the arts.
Online: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
In this episode, we speak with Josh Narramore, executive director of Mobile GR. Mobile GR is a City of Grand Rapids department that works to provide safe, reliable, affordable, and diverse transportation options to support the City's economic and quality of life goals. Mobile GR operates city-owned parking systems and maintains many aspects of transportation and safety infrastructure within the City of Grand Rapids and Kent County.
Mobile GR exists to expand mobility choices for city residents and visitors by making it easier to take transit, walk, bike, carpool, or drive alone.
Online: Mobile GR
In this episode, we spend time Mary K. Hoodhood. Mary recently released her first book, a memoir titled, "What I Can Do."
The title of the book refers to, "What I can do" ...the question that Mary repeated to herself following a 1980 automobile crash.
Despite that setback, Mary was determined to live a life of service. Building on her parents’ lessons about service and leadership, she started a nonprofit organization to feed 125 kids. Today, Kids’ Food Basket feeds 1.6 million Sack Dinners annually to kids who otherwise might not have nourishment once they leave school.
Online: Mary K. Hoodhood
On this week's episode, we welcomed Laurel Conrad, program coordinator with LowellArts.
LowellArts exists to Connect artists and audiences through the visual and performing arts.
Online: LowellArts
In this episode, we speak with Spencer Everhart, the board president of The Chiaroscuro International Film Series.
The Chiaroscuro International Film Series is a non-profit cultural and educational organization that seeks to foster a deeper understanding of world cultures through the medium of film. Chiaroscuro enriches the West Michigan cultural landscape by presenting thought-provoking films in a setting that encourages discussion and social engagement.
More: The Chiaroscuro International Film Series
In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Marcel “Fable” Price, the executive director of The Diatribe, a Grand Rapids Black and LGBTQ+-run art and creative center for youth.
The Diatribe uses restorative art to disrupt historical systems of oppression by reimagining education, holistically honoring the community through our approach to our work, and creating an unapologetic vision for liberation that is accessible to all.
More: The Diatribe
In this episode we we learn everything about the start-up and wonderful mission of Beer City Dog Biscuits from Jennifer Romain. Operations Manager with Beer City Dog Biscuits.
In 2018, Tad and Suzanne Wilcox and David and Leslie Hooker formed a nonprofit 501(c)3, HW Living Ventures dba Beer City Dog Biscuits, on behalf of their adult sons, both of whom have disabilities.
Jennifer told us that a vibrant living community for those with developmental disabilities is the long-term vision of this nonprofit. The immediate need is to provide them with an opportunity to be productive every day.
The Beer City Dog Biscuits business is tailored to meet the unique abilities of each volunteer and employee to enable them to participate in all aspects of the business. They are assembling, baking, labeling, and weighing bags, packing, and delivering orders.
Leadership volunteers assist and guide in the process; each stage is intentionally created to support project-based learning and work skill development that enables "Brew Bakers" to learn valuable life skills.
More: Beer City Dog Biscuits
On this week's program, we get an update on everything happening with LGROW, from Wendy Ogilvie, Director of environmental programs for LGROW
Wendy joined the Grand Valley Metro Council in 2013 as the Director of Environmental Programs, bringing her expertise of over 25 years in watershed and stormwater management.
The Lower Grand River Watershed covers the lower portion of the Grand River that drains into Lake Michigan from Ionia County. There are many subwatersheds within the Lower Grand River Watershed. You can find your watershed using the Find My Watershed tool. The Grand River is the longest river in Michigan, spanning 252 miles, and was named O-wash-ta-nong, meaning Far-Away-Water, by Native Americans who lived there prior to settlement.
A “watershed” is an area of land, defined by hills and ridges that drain to a common body of water. Groundwater and surface water are connected within a watershed, and both supply our drinking water, agricultural irrigation, and manufacturing processes. The Lower Grand River watershed offers opportunities for recreation, like fishing and paddling, and provides vital habitat for plants and animals.
More: LGROW
On this episode, station manager, Phil Tower speaks with Kate O'Keefe, Vice President of Advancement, for Family Promise Grand Rapids.
Family Promise exists to end homelessness, one family at a time, by engaging faith-based and community organizations to provide emergency shelter and basic needs to families with children who are homeless and to provide additional programs to assist them in finding housing and sustaining their independence.
Family Promise seeks to provide hospitality, compassion, and hope to families experiencing a housing crisis.
Online: Family Promise Grand Rapids.
On this week's program, we connected with David Marquardt, the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City Of Grand Rapids.
The GR Parks and Recreation Department exists to preserve and enhance a well-connected and healthy community. With 75+ parks and year-round recreation programs across the City of Grand Rapids, there are numerous options for city residents and visitors within the region and beyond.
Online: GR Parks and Recreation
Ken Wylupski from the West Michigan Blues Society talks about all things blues happening with his organization in West Michigan.
The purpose of the West Michigan Blues Society is to promote and preserve the appreciation of blues music.
The West Michigan Blues Society (WMBS) was established in 1990 to promote and preserve the rich history of blues music as it concerns West Michigan, its impact on American culture, and commerce in musical arts and industry. The WMBS is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit all-volunteer membership organization, including the Board of Directors.
Online: West Michigan Blues Society
On this week's program, WYCE Station Manager, Phil Tower welcomes Elle Lively, Executive Director of the Michigan Music Alliance. The Michigan Music Alliance was created in 2019 as a direct response to the needs expressed by West Michigan artists. In addition to free educational music business sessions and DIY resources, Michigan Music Alliance works to create opportunities to help artists connect on a personal level, with an end goal of facilitating lasting collaborations and support systems leading to a sustainable music community that focuses on what we all have in common: the love of music.
Michigan Music Alliance is a fully volunteer-powered organization.
More info at info@michiganmusicalliance.org.
On this week's, Community Connection station manager, Phil Tower, welcomes Regenail Thomas, CEO of Seeds Of Promise, Grand Rapids. Seeds of Promise is a place-based urban community improvement initiative located in the Southeast community of Grand Rapids. Seeds of Promise empower those who live in this urban neighborhood to direct their own strategy. Seeds of Promise describes itself as a “Bottom-Up” rather than “Top Down.” Our future is not about reducing poverty, it is about empowering urban residents to build personal and neighborhood prosperity through producing measurable impacts.
More online: Seeds Of Promise
On this week's episode of Community Connection, WYCE Station Manager welcomes Stephanie Sheler, Executive Director, CASA of Kent County as Executive Director. Stephanie oversees the staff, volunteers, donors, and family court personnel as they work for the best interest of children who are in foster care.
Stephanie encourages you to reach out if you want to know anything about CASA, or if you are interested in volunteering or supporting us in any way.
Visit CASA of Kent County
In this week's program, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Randall Goble, Director of Engagement: Marketing, programming, and communications at Kent District Library. Kent District Library operates 20 branch libraries that serve nearly 440,000 residents of 27 different municipalities throughout Kent County. KDL enriches lives by providing information, ideas, and excitement.
Learn More at Kent District Library
On this week's episode of community connection, station manager, Phil Tower speaks with Michael Van Denend, M.A., Executive Director
Michael has always been interested in world events and issues—and is a strong advocate of non-partisan grace-filled discourse. He’s fond of Richard Mouw’s description of “convicted civility”—which is “combining a civil outlook with a passionate intensity about our convictions.”
Michael came to the World Affairs Council after 33 years as the executive director of the Calvin College Alumni Association, where he interviewed and wrote stories about alumni all over the globe.
In addition to his leadership role with the World Affairs Council, he’s also an on-air radio programmer at WYCE 88.1 FM (Saturdays from 8-10 a.m.) where he presents folk, blues, jazz, rock, and a lot of WORLD music!
More online:
World Affairs Council
Station manager, Phil Tower, welcomes, Cathy Holbrook, Executive Director of Saint Cecilia Music Society to talk about the history of the organization and the quality programming and shows coming up in the 2023 season.
Jose Gonzalez joins WYCE Music Director Shane German to discuss fatherhood, existentialism & information theory, musical inspirations, and his gorgeous new album "Local Valley"' - which is out now on Mute Records.
https://jose-gonzalez.com/
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered.
http://www.wyce.org WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Jess Sylvester of Marinero joins WYCE Music Director Shane German to discuss his new album "Hella Love" - which is out now via Hardly Art Records.
https://maringuero.bandcamp.com/album/hella-love
https://www.hardlyart.com
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Shannon McNally joins WYCE Music Director Shane German to talk about her career in the music industry and her new album "The Waylon Sessions." https://www.shannonmcnally.com/
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
On this super-sized edition of Songs from the Second Floor, Amythyst Kiah joins WYCE Music Director Shane German to discuss her brand new album WARY + STRANGE, which is out now on Rounder Records. Amythyst and band also perform the songs "Black Myself", "Firewater", and "Hangover Blues."
Special thanks to Rounder Records, Concord, and GRTV.
https://www.amythystkiah.com/
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. A world of music all in one place. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center - building community through media. http://www.grcmc.org
Joff Oddie of Wolf Alice joins us to discuss the making of their brand new album BLUE WEEKEND. The band also performs the songs "No Hard Feelings" and "Safe From Heartbreak."
https://wolfalice.co.uk
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. A world of music all in one place. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center - building community through media. http://www.grcmc.org
Morgan Wade joins us to discuss her new album RECKLESS and performs the songs 'Matches and Metaphors' and 'Other Side.'
https://www.morganwademusic.com
Special thanks to Thirty Tigers
https://www.thirtytigers.com
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Mike Calabrese & Mike "McDuck" Olson of Lake Street Dive join us to discuss their new album 'Obviously' and the organization they founded - Virtual Lessons for Actual Change. The band also perform the songs 'Hypotheticals' and 'Same Old News' - Recorded on 2/25 at Bunker Studios in Brooklyn NY. Special thanks to Nonesuch Records.
http://www.lakestreetdive.com
http://www.virtuallessonsforactualchange.com
http://www.nonesuch.com
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Valerie June performs 'Call Me A Fool' and joins us by phone to discuss her new album 'The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers.' Special thanks to Fantasy Recordings and Concord Music Group.
www.valeriejune.com
www.fantasyrecordings.com
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Joachim Cooder joins us to discuss his new album Over That Road I'm Bound - The Songs of Uncle Dave Macon. He also performs the songs ‘All In Down & Out' and ‘Come Along Buddy’ exclusively for WYCE.
Special thanks to Nonesuch Records and Leslie Rouffe at Songlines Music. www.joachimcooder.com www.nonesuch.com
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids, West Michigan, & beyond. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Enjoy a special Songs From The Second Floor conversation & session with George Thorogood about his latest release "Live In Boston, 1982: The Complete Concert." You’ll also hear a few stripped down duo performances of songs that appear in full band glory on the concert album.
Special thanks to Concord // Craft Recordings // Rounder Records
https://www.georgethorogood.com/
https://craftrecordings.com/
https://rounder.com/
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Lael Neale joins us from her Virginia farm to discuss how the vintage Omnichord and 4-track cassette home recording shaped her new album "Acquainted with Night." Lael also performs the songs 'Every Star Shivers in the Dark' and 'How far is it to the Grave.' The new album is out now via Sub Pop Records. https://laelneale.com/
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Nashville Singer/Songwriter Stephanie Lambring joins us on Songs from the Second Floor to discuss her new album AUTONOMY. She also performs the songs "Mr. Wonderful" and "Somebody Else's Dress" www.stephanielambring.com CONTENT WARNING: This interview & music performance contains subject matter regarding suicide in the LGBTQ community. If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. There are resources available like The Trevor Project. To learn more, visit their website at: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now/ Or call their 24/7 phone line at: 1-866-488-7386
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1 fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Gracie & Rachel join WYCE Music Director Shane German to discuss their new album 'Hello Weakness, You Make Me Strong' which is out now via Righteous Babe Records. Gracie & Rachel also perform the songs "Ideas" and "Sidelines" exclusively for WYCE. www.gracieandrachel.com
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air FM programming at 88.1 Mhz, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
WYCE Music Programmer Randall Stewart speaks with Jim & Susie Malcolm from their home in Scotland about experiences making music together and around the world. Their new album is called "The Berries" and you can learn more at: https://www.jimmalcolm.com/
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1 fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. Building community through media. http://www.grcmc.org
Ruston Kelly chats with WYCE Music Director Shane German just prior to the release of his new album 'Shape & Destroy.' Ruston also performs 'Radio Cloud' and 'Alive.'
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air FM programming at 88.1 Mhz, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
On this episode of Songs from the Second Floor, WYCE Music Director Shane German sits down with Raye Zaragoza to discuss her life, her music, and the importance of representation in media for women of color. Raye also performs "Fight Like A Girl" and "The It Girl" from her upcoming album "Woman In Color" - out October 23rd.
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air FM programming at 88.1 Mhz, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
Interview recorded on August 26, 2020
On this special Bonus Episode, Hozier joins WYCE Music Director Shane German for an intimate conversation about his life and influences, the album "Wasteland, Baby!", and working with Mavis Staples on the song "Nina Cried Power."
(Recorded backstage at 20 Monroe Live in Grand Rapids, Michigan on 05-29-2019.)
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air FM programming at 88.1 Mhz, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. www.grcmc.org
Award Winning Choctaw singer, songwriter, artist, producer, and poet Samantha Crain joins WYCE Music Director Shane German for an intimate conversation about her life and overcoming the physical, emotional, and mental health issues that nearly sidelined her music career forever. Samantha also performs two songs from her gorgeous new album "A Small Death" which is out now via Ramseur Records. samanthacrain.com/
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air FM programming at 88.1 Mhz, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered. www.wyce.org/
Video Production by GRTV, Grand Rapids Public Access. Also a service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. www.grtv.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. www.grcmc.org
Recorded August 18, 2020
Outlaw Country artist Jaime Wyatt joins WYCE Music Director Shane German for an intimate conversation on overcoming addiction, accepting her gay identity, and working with Shooter Jennings. Jaime also performs two songs from her new album "Neon Cross" which is out now via New West Records.
Recorded August 12th, 2020. Special thanks Joel Habbeshaw.
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air FM programming at 88.1 Mhz, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org
John Craigie joins WYCE Music Director Shane German to discuss his new album "Asterisk The Universe." A virtual edition of Songs from the Second Floor. Recorded August 5th, 2020.
Renowned for his eloquent Americana style, engaging live shows, and off-the-cuff clever observations, John Craigie carries on the legacy of classic singer-songwriters, while blazing a trail of his own. http://www.johncraigiemusic.com
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. A proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.wyce.org
"We need truth, man. We just need honesty. You know? Honesty is the simplest thing, but it can be the hardest thing for a human being to look in the mirror and be truthful. And I think that’s what’s going on in 2020. "
Charley Crockett joins WYCE Music Director Shane German from Austin, TX for an intimate conversation and to perform a couple of songs from his new album "Welcome To Hard Times." A virtual edition of Songs from the Second Floor. Recorded July 22nd, 2020.
WYCE is an independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the communities of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Broadcasting on-air programming at 88.1fm, and reaching out to the world through online streaming. Dedicated to providing an eclectic blend of under-represented music to the West Michigan community and beyond. WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.wyce.org
The new album from Charley Crockett is perhaps even more potent proof of his literal heartbreak than the scar on his chest. After undergoing open heart surgery that saved his life, Charley says he considered calming down for “just a minute” but once he recovered he did just the opposite. He states boldly with one eyebrow raised, “I wanted to make an album that would change the entire conversation about country music.” http://www.charleycrockett.com
S.G. Goodman joins WYCE Music Director Shane German from Murray, Kentucky to discuss the new album "Old Time Feeling."
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed during WYCE interviews & streaming live sessions are those of the artists and guests and not those of WYCE or Grand Rapids Community Media Center, which operates to remain neutral and provide a free-speech platform. To learn more about GRCMC, you can visit: http://www.grcmc.org/