Deb Polich

Ron Brooks is a jazz musician, a band leader and a mentor. He founded the legendary Bird of Paradise Jazz club, that, for more than 20 years, brought the greatest jazz musicians to Ann Arbor. Ron will receive Creative Washtenaw’s 2024 Lifetime Achievement medal at THE pARTy! on September 30. He joins Deb Polich to talk about his career and legacy on this edition of "creative:impact."

Oz’s Music is a well-known Ann Arbor music store, selling instruments and offering lessons and repairs. Behind that curtain, though, is a life-changing program called Know Obstacles, a musical project for people with disabilities. Steve Osburn joins Deb Polich, and they talk about the magic of music to include everyone on this edition of "creative:impact."

A lot has been happening at Ypsilanti’s Riverside Arts Center since Elizabeth Warren took her seat as the executive director two years ago – building expansion, new programs and community events to name a few. We find out what else Liz and her board have in store for the center in this conversation with Deb Polich.

Creative industries in Washtenaw County add hundreds of millions of dollars to the local economy.

Creative industries in Washtenaw County add hundreds of millions of dollars to the local economy.

An interdisciplinary artist, Claire Moore applies her belief as she leads art workshops at the Disability Network of Washtenaw, Monroe and Livingston. Claire joins Deb Polich on this edition of "creative impact" to talk about the impact of her work and an upcoming holiday market featuring the work of her clients.

Named an Arts Midwest 2024 Culture Bearer, Gean is a co-founder of the Philippine Arts & Culture Ensemble of Michigan (PACE-MI). They provide community programs and resources in Filipino arts and culture to inform, educate and entertain. Gean joins Deb Polich on this edition of "creative impact," and we hear about his passion for the art and culture of the Philippines.

Creative industries in Washtenaw County add hundreds of millions of dollars to the local economy.

Steve Ouellette is in the house…the front of the house, that is. Steve has managed theaters in New York City, Lansing and he’s now in the land of Ann Arbor. Following his “yellow brick road” brought him full circle from the opening of "Wicked" on Broadway to the opening of "Wicked" the film at the State Theatre. Meet Steve and hear some wickedly good stories when he joined Deb Polich on this edition of "creative:impact."

It’s been a blast to host this show and introduce you to hundreds of artists and creative business in our region. Together, we’ve explored how they have impacted our local quality of life, place and economy. Join Deb Polich on the last edition of "creative:impact" to look back and forward as she signs off for what she expects to be the last time.