This week on Currently, we're diving into how small-town governance shapes life across Northern Michigan, and what happens when communities rethink the rules altogether.

Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends.

First-time guest Austin Rowlader, a freelance journalist contributing to Bridge Michigan, Interlochen Public Radio, and The Antrim Review, joins Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) to explore a bold and controversial proposal in Banks Township in Antrim County: the potential removal of all zoning ordinances. What would that mean for residents, developers, and the future of land use in rural Michigan?

Then, the conversation widens to a broader challenge: how townships across the state are struggling to manage budgets and finances, especially in rural areas where resources and oversight can be limited. Christal, Beth, and Austin unpack the implications of these changes and what they reveal about the shifting landscape of local governance.

Plus, Beth brings her regular round-up of restaurant & retail updates and a look at upcoming road projects.

Currently is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.

Christal sits down with Taylor Moore, Director of Food Rescue of Northwest Michigan, for a timely and heartfelt discussion about the growing challenge of food insecurity across our region.

Every year, Food Rescue collects, re-packs, and distributes over 2.2 million pounds of food—enough to create 1.8 million meals across Northern Michigan. The program stands at the intersection of two urgent issues: food waste and hunger. But as Taylor explains, the need is accelerating—and a looming federal crisis could make it even worse.

With the ongoing government shutdown threatening to pause SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, thousands of local families, seniors, Veterans and working adults who rely on monthly SNAP support to afford groceries could soon find themselves without that lifeline. The ripple effects would hit food pantries and meal sites especially hard, as more people turn to community resources as federal support slows or stops.

Christal and Taylor discuss how Food Rescue and its partners across the Northwest Food Coalition are preparing to respond, what gaps they're already seeing, and how local collaboration, volunteers, and donors can help cushion the impact for neighbors in need. They also explore the logistics behind rescuing nearly 8,000 pounds of fresh food every day, the partnerships that make it possible, and the hope that keeps this mission moving forward.

Currently: The Conversation shares meaningful stories from the people shaping Northern Michigan's future, real conversations about community, compassion, and action. A Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.

This week on Currently, we’re taking you behind the scenes of a brand-new festival coming next spring: the Fresh Coast Film Festival: Traverse City.

Support for Currently comes from West Shore Bank, committed to the well-being of our community, along with Old Town Playhouse, where community comes together in downtown Traverse City. Support also comes from The Coin Slot Arcade Bar in Traverse City — a chill spot to unwind with pinball, drinks, and friends.

Arts and culture contributor Joe Beyer joins Christal and Beth Milligan (Traverse City Ticker) to share how this beloved Marquette-based festival is bringing its mix of outdoor adventure, environmental storytelling and community spirit to the Boardman Lake District.

Plus, Beth brings the latest local headlines on freshwater issues, updates on Leelanau County’s only marijuana dispensary and the future of the TAG program at TCAPS.

Currently with Christal Frost is a Compass Local podcast produced by Pancake Boy Productions.