Up North Lowdown

A mass shooting on Friday claimed the lives of six people and left a 16 year-old girl severely injured in Missaukee County. We'll have an update on what we know so far. Also, FEMA money is making its way to northern Michigan after April flooding. Vivian La tells us where those funds are headed. And a second petition to recall Antrim County Clerk Victoria Bishop will be in front of the Board of State Canvassers this morning. Austin Rowlader tells us what to expect.

Puzzle master Jonathan Baude tries to stump this week's IPR Puzzle winner Marilyn Kaczanowski from Mancelona. She plays a puzzle on-air that highlights some familiar places around the region (and the world). Also, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians wrote checks totaling $1.66 million dollars this year through their 2% allocations. We'll hear about a township on Beaver Island that received some of the funding.

For many seniors, food assistance from the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) is a lifeline to afford their monthly groceries. Drastic cuts this month caught some Traverse City seniors off guard. We'll hear from people who were affected. Also, a Line 5 permit approval and piping plover protections (and pronunciation).

An 87-year-old village president. Another village almost voting itself out of existence. And a model of government that predates the Civil War. These are some of the problems facing Michigan's rural townships and villages. We talk with Ron French at Bridge Michigan about what that means for how we pay taxes, vote and even live in our communities.

Patrick Preusser left a job as the COO of public transit in Denver, Colorado. Now he's the new CEO of BATA. He jumped on board the #2 line with IPR's Austin Rowlader. Also, an update on Camp Grayling's drone testing facility, and a possible expansion of uses for opioid settlement funds in Grand Traverse County.

The Traverse City Food and Wine Festival is coming up August 19 - 23. Whitney Waara from Traverse City Tourism fills us in on the more than 80 events happening around Traverse City. Also, what do The Accidentals think about roundabouts? Find out in today's episode.

What do pickles and jazz music have in common? Austin Rowlader finds the answer from a couple of musicians hanging out in their mom's garage. Also, the people own the lakes — not the government. Vivian La's got the scoop on how the recent MI Supreme Court decision on Line 5 strengthens the public trust doctrine, with far-reaching implications for other big projects in the future.

Bart Stupak was the last Democrat to represent northern Michigan in the U.S. House. He weighs in on the road ahead for Callie Barr, running in the 1st District. And a new study shows a whole world of rock-eating fungi on the Antrim Shale.

An unknown Senate outcome (as of recording), decisive gubernatorial decisions, and a rematch in the 1st District: We'll take a look at election results for the 2026 midterm primaries with Votebeat Michigan reporter Hayley Harding. We'll also hear from voters, poll workers, and a township clerk in an audio postcard from Antrim County.

On this Primary Election Day, we take you to Antrim County, where the county clerk is under investigation for sowing doubt about voter registrations. IPR's Austin Rowlader talks to us from a polling place and updates us on an effort to recall Victoria Bishop. Plus, the two candidates in a hotly contested Democratic U.S. Senate primary say no matter who wins, the party plans to come together tomorrow.

Tribes in Michigan and other Line 5 opponents celebrated a major victory over the weekend. A near unanimous decision by the Michigan Supreme Court throws the future of the Line 5 tunnel project into uncertainty. Vivian La joins us to discuss what might be next for the project. Also, iconic printmaker Gwen Frostic's 21,000 sq. ft. studio gets new owners.

"Everyone up here loves it," say Tim Mulherin, "but everyone loves it in a different way." His book, 'This Magnetic North,' explores the tension between people who live here full time, and those who come here for just part of the year. He sat down with Ed Ronco to talk about his experience as a part-time resident. Also, an update from the district attorney's office on the Interlochen report.

Grape growers and experts in northern Michigan say “smoke taint” from this month’s hazy skies isn’t an immediate threat, but is likely a new impact of volatile weather that the industry might need to adapt to. We take a look at how the state's valuable wine industry is preparing for a future that could very well bring more smoke — and greater threat to their crop.

In this extended episode, we present the full audio of our conversation with Interlochen Center for the Arts President Trey Devey, about the findings of an independent investigation into sexual abuse at the institution from the 1950s through the 2010s.

Interlochen Center for the Arts released the findings of an independent investigation that showed decades of sexual abuse committed by adults against students. On today's episode, we talk to Interlochen President Trey Devey. The report spells out 70 separate instances of sexual abuse against students committed by faculty, staff and other adults, from the 1950s through the 2010s.

The Wexford Joint Planning Commission voted against recommending a proposed solar project in Wexford County. IPR's Vivian La tells us about this project and a surprising detail on who actually owns the land meant to hold it.

The Michigan Board of State Canvassers has rejected a petition to recall Antrim County Clerk Victoria Bishop. IPR's Austin Rowlader breaks down why the petition was rejected.

Flock cameras in Grand Traverse County have taken photographs of almost 450,000 vehicles in the last 30 days. But who is searching through the data? And what are they searching for? Locally, the only check on searches comes from the policing authorities themselves. We'll also hear about the effort to recall the Antrim County clerk, a possible data center moratorium in Garfield Township and an Elk Rapids man's high-flying world record.

Mandi Young, a science teacher at The Pathfinder School, spent the week on Lake Superior aboard the federal research vessel "Lake Guardian," taking water samples, working with EPA scientists, and thinking of ways to bring the experience to her students this school year. We'll also hear about Traverse City’s Resilience Program, which offers many people living through homelessness a place to talk about their experience.

An acting troupe will tell the Bard's tales out in the woods, not all that differently from how Shakespeare would have done it — out in the elements. Also, an interesting discovery at a local archaeological dig site.

In the spring of 1536, in the Tower of London, Anne Boleyn awaits execution. That actually happened. But in Henry Tudor Must Die, a previous wife of Henry VIII appears to Anne on the eve of her death, and offers to help her escape. Ed Ronco talks with Traverse City author Jillian Laine about her debut novel. Also, an update on an incident last weekend at Blissfest and other northern Michigan news.

Haven't had time to look into the candidates for Michigan's 1st Congressional District yet? Don't worry. The Leelanau Enterprise did. We talk with editor Brian Freiberger. We'll also hear about a big land deal that puts hundreds of acres along Torch Lake into permanent protection. And we can't smell the smoke anymore but that doesn't mean it's gone.

Today, we get an update on the cherry harvest in northern Michigan. Tart cherry growers are expecting a smaller harvest than usual. Janelle D. James from Bridge Michigan tells us more about what she learned. We'll also reveal the winner to our first-ever Up North Lowdown Puzzle, and play a cherry-themed game with her. Can you get to the answer before she does? Listen to find out.

A new local newsroom appeared in Grand Traverse County seemingly overnight. Prism News publishes under the bylines of nearly 40 journalists.But here’s the catch: None of those reporters are human.

Dylan Kulik, assistant director of sustainability at Interlochen Center for the Arts walks us through how to start an herb garden. Also, wildfires burning in Minnesota are leading to poor air quality here in northern Michigan. And we take a look at cyclosporiasis cases here in northern Michigan. The parasite infects fresh greens, herbs and produce. So, how can you protect yourself?

Early plans from a renewable energy developer Ranger Power could line the land around Jake Kerby’s home with solar arrays, as county officials consider a zoning amendment that could push the project forward. Some see the project as inevitable because of a state law that limits local governments’ ability to say no to large-scale renewable energy development like solar, wind or battery storage — Public Act 233. Communities are still figuring out how to deal with it.

"Here All Along: Finding My Way to Cherry Republic" is the title of Bob Sutherland's new memoir. Ed Ronco met with him at his Traverse City location to talk about the book and his life leading up to Cherry Republic. Also, a traffic update — construction on Beitner Rd. likely to begin in the next few weeks. But a sewer main break on South Airport is going to cause some backups this week. Reporting for this episode by Austin Rowlader and Ed Ronco.

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians organized the Kchi Wiikwedong Anishinaabek PowWow at the National Cherry Festival. IPR's Maxwell Howard brings us there. Also, an update on Beitner Rd. a main Traverse City thoroughfare that has been closed since it washed out in April. Reporting for this episode by Maxwell Howard and Austin Rowlader. Producer: Austin Rowlader Editor: Steve Junker Music: Blue Dot Sessions

Despite having no proposals on the table, over 100 people packed into a Garfield Township Planning Commission to voice their opposition to data centers.

Major highways in Antrim County were washed out after last week's rain storm. One local farm is seeing a flood of support. Also, singer/songwriter Mason Via, Old Crow Medicine Show, is launching a new solo career. We caught up with him while he was making his car and heading north for a show in Frankfort this Friday. Reporting for this episode by Austin Rowlader.

Abigail McKiernan was having a rough time in life — behind on bills, struggling with a domestic violence situation — when she started "Spark in the Dark," a Facebook group that began with about 50 members in Traverse City. Now it has tens of thousands of followers and has grown into the platform HelpLink. We talk about hope, dignity and the willingness of people to help each other.

Yeah, probably. Jonathan Baude is a local puzzle master whose crosswords have been published in The New York Times. Today he delivers a puzzle too tough for IPR's Ed Ronco.

We're talking tourism, tradition, farming and aerial stunts on this special edition of the Up North Lowdown. This episode was broadcast live from the Traverse City Visitor Center on the day before the festival opens.

License plate reading cameras are catching on in northern Michigan. Grand Traverse County has 28. Antrim County has eight, with the possibility of three more on the way. Also: Youth homelessness numbers are down in northwest lower Michigan, despite adult stats holding steady. We'll hear from a local group working to end the crisis. And how about those storms last night?

For decades, people in Frankfort and Elberta have spent the Fourth of July week looking for a little medal. We talk to an organizer of the annual tradition and an enthusiast. But that's not all in this episode! Hear about our biggest picture yet on how PFAS chemicals are impacting the Great Lakes. And listen to an excerpt of "Pink Pony Club" by the OUT Ensemble!

A new Michigan law requires some local elected officials to wait a certain amount of time before assuming office. And so far this session, it's the only election measure to receive bipartisan support in Lansing. We hear why the new law went into effect, and what it means for those chosen to lead their communities.

Ownership over a Grand Traverse County park has local residents worried about its future. Also, Ludacris cancels his performance at the Cherry Festival sighting “an unforeseen scheduling conflict.”

Traverse City this week hosted a statewide competition for recycling initiatives. Competitors were awarded cash prizes. IPR's Vivian La takes us to the NextCycle Showcase, and introduces us to some of the ideas on display. Plus, we hear from IPR's Red Pine Radio. Producer Helen Raica-Klotz talks with Holly Polich about a pancake that brings back some great memories.

Leelanau County hired Jim Dyer in late 2024 to be county administrator, hoping to bring stability to a dysfunctional workplace. A year and half later, Dyer is the subject of multiple complaints, has been cited by several former employees as a reason for resigning. Even before Dyer was hired, showed up in a 2024 study of the county offices.

It’s summer, folks. There are a lot of people going swimming. There are a lot of people going out on their boats. Then, of course, there’s a lot of people walking on the shoreline with their heads down. Did they lose their keys? Are they checking out their new toenail polish? No. We'll tell you what they're doing in this episode. Also, a local composting company is making their pitch at the NextCycle pitch competition.

Get the latest on Randy and Victoria Bishop's defamation lawsuit. Also, large scale solar array plans in Wexford County.

During a 2024 broadcast of "Our Defending Fathers," Randy Bishop's conservative talk radio program, he told his listeners an Onaway businessman, Tom Moran "shipped in illegal immigrants" to work at his metal fabrication business. Moran sued Bishop and the radio station for defamation. The radio station airing the comments was owned by Antrim County Clerk Victoria Bishop, who has recently come under scrutiny from the Michigan Bureau of Elections for making illegal changes to the state's Qualified Voter File (QVF). Her access to the QVF was recently revoked by the bureau. The Bishops are also under investigation from the Michigan State Police for a February incident where a member of the Antrim County custodial staff saw Trucker Randy at Victoria's computer unsupervised. The Bishops have refused to cooperate with the courts in their defamation lawsuit and have spoiled evidence pertaining to the case. This prompted Judge Aaron Gauthier [gaw-THeer] of Cheboygan’s 53rd circuit court to enter a default judgment, holding Trucker Randy and Victoria Bishop’s radio station liable for defamation. This week, jurors will decide how much in damages will be awarded to Tom Moran and his business. Also in this episode, Kate Grumke from Harvest Public Media tells us about the re-emersion of the serviceberry or Juneberry.

Data centers are popping up around the country, including in Michigan. So far, the projects have been downstate. What's the likelihood they'd come Up North?

Some immigrants detained inside Michigan detention centers have been held for over six months. For some, it’s been closer to a year. Mental health experts say that takes a toll. We hear the voices of some who have been held for what feels like an indefinite amount of time. Reporting by Claire Keenan-Kurgan and Michigan Public's Michelle Jokisch Polo and Adam Yahya Rayes.

IPR has obtained the 10-page complaint made against Leelanau County Administrator Jim Dyer, who was placed on paid leave earlier this month. In today's episode, IPR's Maxwell Howard walks us through some of the specifics, and we hear voices from Leelanau County commenting on the turbulence in their government. Plus, our occasional gardening segment, "Grow & Tell," explores rhubarb.

The state Bureau of Elections has suspended Victoria Bishop's ability to see or modify the qualified voter file, or QVF. State officials wrote that she was told not to alter the file, but did anyway. We hear from two voters who went down to their township clerk's office to make sure they were still registered. Also, could the waves of Lake Michigan provide reliable power to Beaver Island? A test this weekend could help find out.

The proposal to bury oil and natural gas liquid pipelines beneath the Straits of Mackinac has been a lightning rod for years. A virtual hearing on a state permit is set for Thursday. But there are lots of moving parts: state permits, federal permits, legal challenges and more. We thought it would be useful to walk through some of the details.

The potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare settings was a big subject at the bargaining table for union nurses at northern Michigan's largest hospital. Now that they have a deal, what does it say? We have some details. Also, we have a look at IPR's Sound Garden Project and its residency in Glen Arbor.

The Grand Rapids-based Native News Online is doing a variety of things this year to bring Native voices to the forefront as the United States marks 250 years as a nation. Native News Online Editor and Publisher Levi Rickert talked to IPR about how the project got started and the complicated mix of feelings he and many others feel around occasions like the semiquincentennial of the United States.

It's never too late to learn something new. That's the idea behind Act 2, a program of the Traverse City Philharmonic that lets adults who are new to music learn how to play an instrument. Some, like Jennifer Wesling, participated in music in their youth and are learning a new musical instrument. Classical IPR has been checking in with members of the Act 2 band. On this episode, we get an update and, we should let you know: They sound terrific!