Arts & Culture

Michigan's only venomous snake: The eastern massasauga rattlesnake.

Conservation projects at Camp Grayling to focus on this endangered Michigan rattlesnake

“Camp Grayling has a rich history of taking a proactive approach to ecosystem management," says Matt Kleitch, natural resource specialist for Camp Grayling.

Latest in Arts & Culture
Alma author’s life-on-the-farm lessons find way into debut children’s Christmas book

Life on the farm wasn’t always easy, but it certainly was memorable for Janet Defever, who grew up on the family dairy farm in Alma. The experience brought life lessons about gifts, second chances, and forgiveness she will never forget. Today, she shares these lessons in her debut children’s book, “Second Chance Christmas.”  

New pitch competition fuels dreams for young entrepreneurs in Southwest Michigan

The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber debuted a new pitch competition -- HYPE -- aimed at bolstering the dreams of young aspiring entrepreneurs. Thousands of dollars were awarded to help new businesses grow.

“The Recreation Passport is a tremendous value providing annual access to state parks, boating access sites, state forest campgrounds and more, all for $14,” says DNR Director Scott Bowen. Pictured here is the beach at Hoeft State Park on Lake Huron.
Recreation Passport grants to support park and trail improvements in these 13 Michigan counties

“The Recreation Passport is a tremendous value providing annual access to state parks, boating access sites, state forest campgrounds and more, all for $14,” says DNR Director Scott Bowen.

“Our investment in Michigan marks the company’s first major investment to the U.S. market," says Christophe Lavigne, President of Highfield USA.
New jobs for Northwest Michigan as businesses expand operations in Cadillac and Traverse City

“Our investment in Michigan marks the company’s first major investment to the U.S. market and we chose Cadillac for its rich legacy in recreational boat building and the unwavering support of both the local and statewide communities,” says Christophe Lavigne, President of Highfield USA.

Artwork from children in Taiwan.
4-H art exchange program connects rural Michigan students with their peers in China and beyond

For more than three decades, school children across Michigan have been exchanging their artwork with students in China and elsewhere. Thanks to the Michigan 4-H China Project, students don't have to travel across the globe to gain cultural awareness.

“This is great news that will help spur growth in Northern Michigan. Housing has been a major issue in our region and across the state,” says Sen. John Damoose.
Developers win grant to activate vacant space into workforce housing in downtown Petoskey

“This is great news that will help spur growth in Northern Michigan. Housing has been a major issue in our region and across the state,” says Sen. John Damoose.

“The applications we received this year were impressive in both number and quality, which speaks to the need for continued investment across the state,” says MaryBeth Wott, SVP Community Investment and Strategic Planning Officer.
Michigan projects receive $17.7M in grants in record-setting year for affordable housing program

“The applications we received this year were impressive in both number and quality, which speaks to the need for continued investment across the state,” says MaryBeth Wott, SVP Community Investment and Strategic Planning Officer.

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.

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."

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