WYCE's Community Closeup (*conversations concerning issues of importance in West Michigan)
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© WYCE Independent Community Radio
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WYCE's Community Closeup is a weekly public affairs program featuring community leaders and nonprofit organizations.
WYCE is West Michigan's only independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the greater Grand Rapids metro. WYCE programs an eclectic blend of folk, rhythm & blues, hip-hop, rock, jazz, and world music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered.
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. We exist because of listener support. Please support us to keep the music playing: http://www.wyce.org
WYCE is West Michigan's only independent, commercial-free, community radio station serving the greater Grand Rapids metro. WYCE programs an eclectic blend of folk, rhythm & blues, hip-hop, rock, jazz, and world music to the West Michigan community and beyond. Listener-sponsored, volunteer-powered.
WYCE is a proud service of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. We exist because of listener support. Please support us to keep the music playing: http://www.wyce.org
192 Episodes
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In this episode of Community Closeup, we sit down with Ted Diedrich, station manager of GRTV, to discuss what a vital community resource GRTV is and why public access television remains an important civic institution, even in the digital age. Ted shares about how you can become an All-Access member of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center, and he also talks about the wide variety of classes offered through GRTV and professional, audio, and video equipment available for you to check out as a member.By creating the media and your own video programming, GRTV offers numerous opportunities for community involvement for anyone who is interested.Episode NotesWhat is GRTV? An overview of the GRTV's mission and history.Membership & Access: How Grand Rapids Community Media Center members can unlock classes, equipment access, and media literacy training.Hands-On Learning: Details on GRTV’s hands-on classes in video production, podcasting, editing, and video production for all skill levels.Volunteer Opportunities: Discover how to support live events covered by GRTV, and how you can be part of the production team that shoots all five hours of The WYCE Jammie Awards.Learn More Online: GRTV
On this episode, we welcome Brian Elve, Executive Director of Guiding Light, and David Madiol, Director of Development & Communications. Guiding Light specializes in innovative Recovery for Men & Women.Guiding Light’s four-month residential experience creates a culture of community, peer support, and accountability.Their faith-based long-term rehab provides a structured environment, dedicated staff, and comprehensive programming with life-coaching, spiritual direction, therapy, support groups, psycho-social education, and exercise. We spoke with Brian and Dave about Guiding Light Live! A Benefit Concert to Fight Addiction: Saturday, February 21, 4-6:30 PM at St. Cecilia Music CenterThe concert is presented by Eastern Avenue Church, and all proceeds benefit Guiding Light’s addiction recovery programs.Learn more and get tickets here: Guiding Light Live!
In this episode, we welcome Carol Moore, a historical preservationist and the founder of Hermitage at Diamond. Mary Reagan -Shapton, Hermitage at Diamond Board Chair.Hermitage at Diamond is a space that blends historic preservation with contemporary art.Built in 1875 as the Third Reformed Church, since 2017, it has been home to Hermitage at Diamond, a 150+-year-old former church in Grand Rapids' East Hills neighborhood. Hermitage at Diamond has launched a $150,000 fundraiser to complete the exterior restoration and install the final rose windows before winter. The estimated cost for these improvements is $5 million. Carol told us that donors are needed and donations are always encouraged. To learn more about this special space ,visit: Hermitage at Diamond
In this episode, we have a conversation with Sister Gabriella Pettirossi, the Executive Director for the Franciscan Life Process Center in Lowell, MI. In May 2025, Sister Gabriella Pettirossi was appointed to serve as the executive Director for the Franciscan Life Process Center. Sister Gabriella succeeded Sister Colleen Ann Nagle, the foundress and executive director of the Franciscan Life Process Center. • The Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist serve West Michigan through programs offered at their campus near Lowell and the city campus in Grand Rapids. Sister Gabriella spoke with us about the many programs and opportunities offered through the Franciscan Life Process Center, including counseling services, music therapy, cooking classes, land experiences, nature trails, and much more.Their mission, based in Franciscan spirituality, is to promote a relationship with God that brings dignity and hope to the sacred process of all life through programs that assist, educate, enrich, and inform. They have carried out this mission since 1974.Online: The Franciscan Life Process Center
In this week's episode, we welcome Bill Kirk, the Director ofCommunications at Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI)Bill joined us for a preview of the 7th annual World of Winter Festival, happening January 9 through March 1, 2026. World of Winter is a celebration of art and community designed to remind us that there is fun to be had and connections to be made in the wintertime in Michigan!World of Winter At A Glance:o Downtown Grand Rapids becomes partoutdoor art gallery, part all-ages playground, part outdoor theater, etc., etc.o Enjoy incredible interactive works of art, electricity, and sound as the foundation of the festivalo World of Winter is complemented with two months of free events, activations, walking tours, storefront window displays, etc.o World of Winter 2026 includes crowd favorite events like Ice Breaker (a giant, live-carved ice sculpture chosen by public vote, Paint the Park, Human Hungry Hippo Tournament, Snowga, Silent Disco, Love on Ice, Circus Wonderland, the Great Lakes Snow Snake Competition, Ice Piano performances, Winter’s a DRAG, and Noodle Fest.Bill encourages folks to follow DGRI and @WorldofWinterGR on social media.Learn more here: World of Winter
In this episode, host Phil Tower welcomes Bill Kirk, Director of Communications, DGRI.Bill joins us in this episode to give us a preview of the 7th annual World of Winter Festival.World of Winter dates are January 9 - March 1, 2026.World of Winter is a celebration of art and community designed to remind us that there is fun to be had and connections to be made in the wintertime in Michigan.In essence, Downtown Grand Rapids becomes part outdoor art gallery, part all-ages playground, part outdoor theater, and much more.New this year for World of Winter: Food trucks every Friday night at 555 MonroeA walking tour of 40+ Downtown window displaysInteractive artist talks with the creators behind EmergenceA recurring projection show on the Civic Auditorium façadeA Luminary Bike RideAn incredible projection drumming performance on the side of the arena featuring Brett Bolten.Live DJ sets And of course, numerous Art Installations.Online: World Of Winter
In this episode, host Janet Zahn welcomes Veronica Horsley-Pettigrew, Community Outreach and Marketing Supervisor with Care Resources PACE.Care Resources is a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). ‘PACE ‘is a Medicare and Medicaid-funded option that gives community-based care and services to people 55 years or older, helping to prevent nursing home placement. PACE provides coverage for prescription drugs, doctor visits, transportation, home care, checkups, hospital visits, and nursing home stays when necessary. PACE has been around for over 50 years, but unfortunately remains a well-kept secret.ONLINE: Care Resources PACE
In this episode, we welcome Steff Rosalez, CEO, Grandville Avenue for the Arts and Humanities.Steff is an artist and musician who started working at GAAH in 2011 because of her passion for the arts and community. In her spare time, Steff fronts the band, How to Live Together.What we learned in this episode:Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities operates two main facilities on the southwest side of Grand Rapids: The Cook Arts Center and the Cook Library Center.They offer several programs, including various opportunities for all ages. At GAAH, they use three main strategies to bring your mission to life: Care & Belonging, Discovery & Advocacy. Discuss.GAAH seeks to build environments of curiosity and creativity with its neighbors (especially youth) to cultivate inclusion, justice, care, and belonging.GAAH is concluding its FALL 2025 Session.All GAAH programming, from hip-hop classes to algebra tutoring, is provided free of charge to their neighbors. Donations support thousands of visits to the Cook Library Center, hundreds of students taking classes at Cook Arts Center, and dozens of teens gaining leadership experience. Online: Grandville Avenue for the Arts and Humanities
In this episode, we are happy to welcome Michele Suchovsky, Chief Executive Officer of Paws With a Cause (PAWS).Michelle’s been leading PAWS since 2018. Under her leadership, PAWS completed a $10 million capital campaign to renovate its campus, expanding its ability to serve clients and communities. She also launched the Animal Assisted Services department, formerly known as Purposeful Placements, developing PAWS facility dog and visiting PAWS programs. PAWS Mission is to transform lives and strengthen communities through partnerships with custom-trained working dogs. More Online: Paws With A Cause (PAWS)
In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Dana Kroll, Uptown Marketing and Communications Specialist, and Mitch Ermatinger, President of the Wealthy Street Business Alliance, owner of Speciation Cellars.Uptown GR brings people, partnerships, and possibilities together to sustain a strong and vibrant urban district.Both Mitch and Dana reminded us that Uptown GR’s 28th annual Shop Hop is Thursday, December 4! Uptown Shop Hop is one evening only; Uptown businesses offer an extra festive holiday shopping experience starting at 3 pm. Uptown GR’s 28th annual Shop Hop includes free trolley rides between districts, streetside entertainment, and much more. Learn more: Uptown Grand Rapids:
In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower welcomes Elizabeth Bovard Strong, the Founder and President of Construction Allies in Action (CAIA).Elizabeth was the first female Executive Vice President of the Builders Exchange of Michigan.Construction Allies in Action is a local nonprofit organization committed to building a more inclusive, transparent, and equitable construction industry. Through strategic partnerships, they empower underrepresented contractors by providing business education, project opportunities, and direct access to critical resources.Construction Allies in Action empowers industry leaders to drive generational change by fostering transparency, accountability, and real opportunity in the construction field.With the support of our Construction Allies, Community Partners, and many volunteers and supporters, we create free and low-cost programming that equips underrepresented contractors with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to build sustainable, thriving businesses.Become a Construction Ally--Become a Community Partner--Share a Project Opportunity--Find Your Next Go-To Contractor.More: Construction Allies in Action
In this episode, host Janet Zahn welcomes Dr. Wendy Falb, Ph.D., the Executive Director of the Literacy Center of West Michigan.The Literacy Center of West Michigan was founded in 1986 by educators and librarians, and today is the largest community-based organization in Michigan… and one of the largest in the country dedicated solely to adult literacy and learning.The Literacy Center works locally to remove literacy as a barrier to employment, healthcare, housing, and parent engagement. Its mission is to bring about a just and vibrant West Michigan through the power of literacy.Literacy by the numbers:--The Literacy Center serves nearly 1,300 learners annually.--85,000 adults read below the 4th grade level in Kent County.--7,500 classroom instructional hours taught by certified staff.--More than 8,000 hours contributed by volunteer literacy coaches in 1-on-1 tutoring. Online: Literacy of West Michigan
In this episode, we speak with Hannah Berry, Executive Director of Lions and Rabbits Center for the Arts.Lions & Rabbits fosters creative community development through strategy, transformative placemaking, and workforce development.Much of their work in the West Michigan area is focused on Public Health…using art as a powerful tool for promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Their initiatives aim to create environments that inspire healthy behaviors and foster a sense of belonging.Lions & Rabbits environmental health projects celebrate the interconnectedness of human and ecological health. Through creative interventions, we raise awareness about environmental challenges and inspire stewardship of our shared spaces.Their goal is to create opportunities for all residents to thrive, and by fostering collaborations and systems thinking to address the root causes of complex community challenges. Learn more about Lions and Rabbits Center for the Arts.
In this week's episode, we welcome George Bayard, Executive Director of The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives.The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives’ mission is to collect and retell the rich, colorful stories that compose the historic African American tapestry of living in Grand Rapids.George Bayard joined us on the program to speak about the big move for GRAAMA to a new location full of immense potential for the organization.The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives (GRAAMA)is moving to 41 Sheldon Avenue SE in downtown Grand Rapids, which will serve as the organization's permanent home. Their new 30,000-square-foot space will be a major upgrade from the museum's former 2,000-square-foot building on Monroe Center.Bayard encouraged community members to get involved by contributing to the project or serving as a volunteer. ONLINE: Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives
In this episode, we speak with Katie Zychowski, Director of Marketing & Communications with the Grand Rapids Public Library.Katie joined us to speak on a variety of topics, including how easy it is to sign up and get a Grand Rapids Public Library card. This can be done year-round at any branch in the city.On an ongoing basis, your Grand Rapids Public Library is a wonderful resource for people who need help with their computer, laptop, or smartphone. Even general questions about email, the Internet, or the library's digital resources are available during drop-in sessions at your public library branch.Upcoming GRPL events include:Saturday, November 01, 10:00 am–12:00 pm-- Kids can build and code their own robots using LEGO’s Spike Prime sets. Monday, November 10: An Indigenous Fashion Presentation with Bead and Powwow Supply, 6:00 pm–7:00 pm at the Yankee Clipper Branch on Leonard NE.Tuesday, November 11: A Beadwork Workshop with Bead and Powwow Supply, 6:00 pm–7:00 pm, at the Yankee Clipper Branch.Thursday, December 18: Tails & Tales | Read to Therapy Dogs, 6 pm-Madison Square Branch. Kids are invited to practice reading to a licensed therapy dog from West Michigan Therapy Dogs Ruff Readers! Online: Grand Rapids Public Library
In this episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Mary Jennings, Executive Director with The Grand Rapids Ballet, and James Sofranko, the Artistic Director with the Grand Rapids Ballet.Mary and James joined us on the program for a preview of the 2025–2026 season.The season kicks off with the world premiere production of “Sherlock"--October 24-26, 2025, at Peter Martin Wege Theatre. Next up is the timeless holiday classic, “The Nutcracker", December 12-14 & 19-21 at DeVos Performance Hall, and three other dynamic productions throughout the remainder of the Ballet’s 2025-2026 season. Tickets for all shows, as well as more information, are available at grballet.comOnline: The Grand Rapids Ballet
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 ParkAll 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.
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