In this week’s episode of Currently with Christal Frost, we dive into the biggest local stories shaping northern Michigan with our esteemed guest journalists, Beth Milligan of the Traverse City Ticker and Jacob Wheeler of the Glen Arbor Sun.

First, we explore the evolving challenges facing local schools and communities following the Executive Order that revokes safe haven protections for schools and churches. Jacob breaks down the implications, including statements from Leelanau County Sheriff Mike Borkovich and how local officials are responding to the concerns of migrant and immigrant families.

Next, Beth gives us a rundown of major developments in Traverse City, from a new workforce housing project to the ongoing two-way street debate and necessary—but expensive—sewer system upgrades.

Later, we discuss the remarkable story of The Lost History of Black Homesteaders in Leelanau County, an upcoming documentary that traces the rediscovery of the Johnson family’s untold legacy. What started as a simple Facebook message has turned into a powerful reclamation of local Black history.

Plus, what’s the one thing our guests are looking forward to next week? (Spoiler: Traverse City Restaurant Week makes an appearance!)

Tune in for all this and more on Currently with Christal Frost!

This show is brought to you by:

• Golden Fowler Home Furnishings – Home Fashion Elevated, located on S. Garfield Avenue in Traverse City.

• West Shore Bank – Committed to the well-being of the community. Visit them on 8th Street or at westshorebank.com.

• The Coin Slot Arcade Bar – A chill hangout in Traverse City featuring a full bar, pinball machines, and a great selection of drinks.

In this week’s episode of Currently with Christal Frost, we’re joined by our Journalist in Residence, Traverse City Ticker’s Head Writer Beth Milligan, and special guest Ed Ronco, News Director for Interlochen Public Radio.

We kick off with a major discussion on press freedom and public broadcasting funding and the First Amendment’s role in journalism.

Later in the episode:

• Education Upgrades: TCAPS unveils district-wide improvements, while Kingsley Schools proposes a $32 million bond for upgrades. What’s included, and how do voters feel about it?
• DNR Budget Crisis: Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources is running out of money. With a declining number of hunting and fishing licenses—its primary funding source—how will conservation efforts survive? We explore alternative funding models other states are using.
• Concert Season Kicks Off: Big names are coming to Interlochen and Cherry Festival—Beth has the details. Plus, Christal might have a personal stake in an upcoming St. Ignace show.

Listen to Currently with Christal Frost on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full episode on YouTube and Facebook.

This show is made possible by:

• Golden Fowler Home Furnishings – Home Fashion Elevated, located on S. Garfield Avenue in Traverse City.
• West Shore Bank – Committed to the well-being of the community. Visit them on 8th Street or at westshorebank.com.
• The Coin Slot Arcade Bar – A chill hangout in Traverse City featuring a full bar, pinball machines, and a great selection of drinks.

In this debut episode of Currently, host Christal Frost is joined by Beth Milligan, Head Writer for The Traverse City Ticker, for an in-depth discussion on the biggest local stories of the week.

The conversation begins with a major development in Traverse City's ongoing homelessness crisis—county commissioners have approved funding to make Safe Harbor a year-round shelter. Beth unpacks the details of this decision, the funding stipulations, and the broader efforts to combat homelessness in the region.

Next, the two discuss Traverse City Area Public Schools' evolving approach to AI in education. With both excitement and concern surrounding the technology, Beth breaks down the district's plans and the reactions from educators and community members.

The episode also covers proposed improvements to the Traverse City State Park and the local impact of recent federal mandates, with Beth providing key insights into how these changes could affect residents and organizations.

Catch Currently with Christal Frost every Friday for your weekly Northern Michigan news roundup. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, watch on YouTube and Facebook, and stay connected at ChristalFrost.com.

This episode is made possible by:

• Golden Fowler Home Furnishings – Home Fashion Elevated, located on S. Garfield Avenue in Traverse City.
• West Shore Bank – Committed to the well-being of the community. Visit them on 8th Street or at westshorebank.com.
• The Coin Slot Arcade Bar – A chill hangout in Traverse City featuring a full bar, pinball machines, and a great selection of drinks.