Briefs

Sept. 22, 2004

TUNE IN: To progressive commentator and funnyman Al Franken on WJML AM-1110 and AM-750 for a new twist on talk radio. Until now, conservatives on the right side of the political spectrum have dominated talk radio in Northern Michigan, but two co-owned stations have decided to present both sides of the political debates simultaneously.
Ranging from Grayling to the Soo, WJML AM-1110 is noted for its conservative views. WJML’s sister station AM-750, however, has gradually added programming with a more liberal slant. That transition has been completed with the addition of several new programs from the Air America Radio Network, most notably The Al Franken Show. Al Franken can be heard from noon to 2 p.m. daily. He is joined in his strong liberal views by Tony Trupiano broadcasting from Detroit 4 to 6 p.m., and Mike Malloy 10 p.m. to midnight. A more moderate slant on issues comes from Dave Scott, 6 to 10 a.m., and Shawn Peterson, 10 a.m. to noon, both from the Charlevoix studios of Michigan Talk Radio Network. A complete program schedule for the two stations can be found at the their website, www.WJML.com.

FARMLAND PRESERVATION: This Wednesday, Sept. 22, area residents will hear from one of the country‘s leading experts on land preservation. Ralph Grossi, president of American Farmland Trust will speak on, “Why We Need To Protect Farmland and Open Space.”
Grossi, a cattle rancher from Marin County, California has been involved in the farmland preservation movement since the late 1970s when he and neighboring farmers organized a local land trust to begin preserving farmland.
The program is at 7 p.m. at the new Elk Rapids Community Governmental Center, 315 Bridges Street, with the public invited.

THE NEXT GENERATIONS GALA: You can make life a little easier for folks in need of nursing home care by attending the Generations Gala this Friday, Sept. 24, at the newly-constructed Great Lakes Campus at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City..
The fundraiser begins at 6 p.m., featuring a reception underwritten by High Pointe Golf Club, silent and live auctions, dinner and dancing to the music of the Bill Sears Quartet, the 20-piece Northwestern Michigan College Big Band led by Mike Hunter, and regional favorite Luther Gravey & The Soul Biscuits. Radio personality Jack O’Malley of WTCM-FM will serve as master of ceremonies and Ray Pleva as auctioneer.
Grand Traverse Pavilions offers care for those ranging from eight weeks old to 100 years of age. Its offerings include adult day and overnight respite, Alzheimer and related dementia care, aquatic/therapy services, long-term skilled nursing care, child care services, independent and assisted living.
“Each year, Grand Traverse Pavilions provide approximately $1 million in benevolent care to members of our community,” says Richard E. Marion, Jr., CEO and administrator of the Pavilions. “This year, we anticipate that number will double.”
Gala reserve tickets are $75 each. Tables of eight are available at $500. Tickets are available by calling (231) 932-3027.