The Pines Are Gone. The Problem Isn't. | wsg Ed Ronco, IPR News | Week of January 16, 2026

On this week's episode of Currently, we take a deeper look at the local stories prompting some of the biggest conversations across Northern Michigan.

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.

IPR News Director Ed Ronco joins Christal and Traverse City Ticker's Beth Milligan to talk about a homelessness story that's resonated strongly with his listeners this week. After Traverse City cleared the Pines encampment, homelessness became less visible but no less dire. We unpack why the story was pursued, what it revealed and the question many listeners are asking: What am I supposed to do with this information?

We also touch on another story about the challenge, 10 months after 2025's big ice storm, that highlights the slow pace of federal response.

Then, Beth shares updates on sustainability efforts involving TCAPS and Traverse City Light & Power, along with the latest restaurant and retail news from around the region.

Plus, what everyone's looking forward to in the week ahead!

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