Stories

Innovation News Brandon Morey

Meet Brandon Morey, owner of Iron Dame Baked Goods and Crêpes Et Amis

Entrepreneur Brandon Morey builds community in Midland through Iron Dame and Crêpes Et Amis, offering unique, high-quality foods and aiming to expand.

Development News Delaney Keating, Director of Entrepreneurship at 20Fathoms, provides startup coaching to the founder of Sand Baggage.

Business incubator to offer free startup coaching help in these 3 northwestern Michigan communities

“When entrepreneurs meet with us, they can expect honest feedback and suggestions for steps to help meet their next milestone whether that is establishing priorities, finding the right customers, or troubleshooting their biggest challenges of today,” says David Kronberg, Director of Regional Ecosystem at 20Fathoms.

Development News The Right Place, Inc. helped the Middleville DDA secure a $21,250 RAP grant for a downtown art walk installation in 2022.

Placemaking projects sought in these 13 West Michigan counties in grant funding push

"By working together as partners, we amplify our impact in West Michigan," says Marla Schneider, President and CEO, Greater Muskegon Economic Development. "This collaboration creates a powerful regional force, ensuring West Michigan is a magnet for talent and a hub for opportunity through placemaking."

Longform A gathering for Michigan State University's Generations Connect program, which matches MSU undergraduate students with elders in the community, at the East Lansing Public Library.

Michigan universities join global "age-friendly" movement, making campuses more welcoming to elders

As Michigan prepares for rapid growth in its population of older adults, three Michigan universities have joined a global movement to make higher education institutions more "age-friendly."

Development News ShelterHouse

Midland thrift stores offer holiday savings and community support

Make your holiday shopping meaningful this year by visiting Midland’s thrift stores. You’ll find gifts with heart while making an impact that lasts beyond the season.

Feature Story Valhalla List Image

One year strong: Valhalla Indoor Axe Throwing celebrates growth and new entertainment offerings

This week marks the first anniversary of Valhalla Indoor Axe Throwing in Mt. Pleasant, and Epicenter caught up with owner Julia Becker to discuss the business's impressive growth. Becker shares the new activities and offerings available, showing how Valhalla has quickly become a staple for entertainment in the community.

Feature Story Young girl meets Santa at the Mt. Pleasant Christmas Celebration

December 2024 in Mt. Pleasant: Holiday magic, festive fun, and year-end celebrations

Get ready for a December to remember in Mt. Pleasant! From crafting wreaths and bouquets to visits with Santa, the Mt. Pleasant Christmas Celebration, and thrilling New Year’s Eve parties, there’s something for everyone this season. Whether you’re shopping, crafting, enjoying live performances, or celebrating with friends, these events promise to make your holidays bright.

Feature Story 90khomeimpList

Shopping small in downtown Mt. Pleasant this holiday season

This holiday shopping season, Mt. Pleasant's small businesses invite you to make a big impact by shopping local. With special discounts, events, and unique holiday offerings during Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, local shops are ready to help you find thoughtful gifts while supporting the local economy. Discover why shopping small is a big deal for Mt. Pleasant’s community this holiday season.

Feature Story MMC List

Explore non-credit and non-traditional classes with Mid Michigan College’s Lifelong Learning series

Mid Michigan College’s Lifelong Learning series invites residents to learn new skills with their nontraditional, non-credit class lineup. Attendees can learn cookie decorating, soapmaking, cooking skills, dog training tips, yoga, and more within the series.

Feature Story There are 200 students in South Sudan who are learning literacy skills, provided by five volunteer teachers. 

Grassroots Initiative Network provides literacy education; a life of opportunity to refugees

South Sudan native, Rieek Nyoach and current Midland resident has expanded Grassroots Initiative Network to Midland. The organization works with volunteer teachers to provide basic education to rural areas and vulnerable populations who have no access to education.

Feature Story Giving back

Giving back in a big way this holiday season

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, now is the time to think about giving. Learn what you can do to help support your community during this time of the year. 

Feature Story Pinconning Area School District list image

Pinconning superintendent says the district stands ready to equip students for the future

As 2024 winds down, Route Bay City asked leaders from our schools to answer questions about recent progress and what's next. This week, we feature Andy Kowalczyk, Superintendent of the Pinconning Area School District.  

Feature Story Eastern High School list image

Eastern High School challenges the alternative school stereotypes

Eastern High School, an alternative high school within Bay City Public Schools, offers a unique educational experience for students who have fallen behind academically.

Feature Story DFC

Detroit Future City’s report highlights how to build a thriving, sustainable middle-class city

Detroit is trending. It’s growing. But can it sustain? The latest report from Detroit Future City provides a roadmap on how to build a sustainable future, looking to build its middle-class population up. 

Feature Story The Sterling Heights Community Center is located at 40250 Dodge Park Rd.

Local makers are ready to share the spotlight while hoping to inspire others at inaugural art fair

"Events like this show the community who is local and what services they provide while also providing a sense of security because the community can meet the businesses in person," says Julie Nicholls of Nicholls Knits.

Development News "These Alebrijes are made from different car parts tying up our relationship with Detroit and our long-time contributions as a Latino community to the Motor City,” says artist Elton Monroy Durán.

New sculptures unveiled in Mexicantown draw inspiration from Mexican folk art and Aztec folklore

"These Alebrijes are made from different car parts tying up our relationship with Detroit and our long-time contributions as a Latino community to the Motor City,” says artist Elton Monroy Durán.

Development News The award-winning Jason Hargrove Transit Center was first built in 1924 as the Dairy Cattle Building.

From Corktown to 8 Mile: Two major Detroit redevelopment projects receive design awards

“The awards are a wonderful recognition of our hard work and what we see every day at the park; people that are engaged and enjoying the beautiful gardens and settings of this unique, historic park and neighborhood asset,” says Jeff Klein, Deputy Chief of Landscape Architecture City of Detroit General Services Dept.