Plunge, sweat, connect: House of Plunge brings contrast therapy to Benton Harbor
House of Plunge in Benton Harbor’s Arts District combines cold plunges, saunas, and recovery therapies as a one-stop shop for “feeling darn good.”
Battle Creek turns housing into a benefit for early childhood educators
A new initiative in Battle Creek will provide rent-free housing and a pathway to homeownership for early childhood educators, aiming to boost compensation, stabilize the workforce, and address the financial challenges facing one of the lowest-paid professions.
Planet Z: Climate anxiety meets Gen Z resolve
Born into a planet in crisis, Gen Z carries the weight of climate anxiety. Planet Z, our yearlong series created by Gen Z writers, explores what it means to come of age in the climate crisis — and how they’re meeting it with collective resolve.
March for Meals Month celebrates 63 Years of delivering more than food in Southwest Michigan
During March for Meals Month, Milestone Senior Services is hosting a baking-themed fundraiser while highlighting how its volunteer-driven Meals on Wheels program delivers nutritious meals and vital wellness checks to hundreds of senior residents each day.
Collaborative collisions: Entrepreneurs ‘Reach Forward’ to find new opportunities and connections in Kalamazoo
The Reach Forward Conversations Event brought local entrepreneurs, product sellers, and buyers together to spark connections that could lead to contracts, growth opportunities, and stronger small-business networks in the Kalamazoo area.
A sweet solution to a serious employment gap: DelectAble Treats and Sweets emphasizes Able
In Battle Creek, Felicia Jaramillo opened DelectAble Treats and Sweets to create jobs for people with disabilities, inspired by her sons and her own recovery journey.
Day-to-day interactions with happy customers keeps Pastrami Joe’s owner going
In 2022, Andrew Scibbe’ purchased Pastrami Joe’s Deli in Marshall. Two years later, he reopened a second location in downtown Battle Creek.
Battle Creek unites to build 1,000 homes and power economic growth
Battle Creek leaders launched a new Housing Fund to address a 3,000-unit shortage, aiming to build and rehabilitate 1,000 homes by 2035 to boost workforce growth and community stability.
Lighting the Northside: How one church is helping to transform Kalamazoo
From mentoring students and supporting seniors to launching literacy programs and expanding neighborhood resources, Bishop Michael Scott I and Galilee Baptist Church are redefining what it means to be the hands and feet of faith in Kalamazoo’s Northside.
Four griddles and a dream: Full of Crepe finds its sweet spot in St. Joe
A family-owned creperie, Full of Crepe, has brought sweet and savory crepes — and a touch of Italian espresso — to downtown St. Joseph, quickly becoming a local favorite.
