Author

Sarah Spohn

Sarah Spohn's Latest Articles

The company's research and development lab was originally housed in the gym.
Entrepreneur transforms his former school into company headquarters and manufacturing operations

Advanced Blending Solutions in Wallace has a unique ‘true north’ origin story. In a serendipitous move back to his hometown, Mike Rasner purchased his former elementary school and transformed the building into his company’s official headquarters and manufacturing operations.

Austin Gongos and Nathan Ackerman, co-founders of Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear in Hancock.
FHLBank grants help elevate local small businesses to next level

FHLBank Indianapolis believes in the power of lifting up small businesses, and the big impact it has on their communities. Four businesses in the U.P. were awarded $74,326 in Elevate grant funding. We speak with two of them, and how the funds are allowing them to level up their businesses.   

The sauce for the coney dogs is made from scratch at U.S. Coney and Cone.
New restaurant in Midland features coney dogs and ice cream

Andy & Nathan’s U.S.Coney & Cone has become a hot spot for Midland diners since it opened in early January. The brick and mortar restaurant serves coney dogs, sandwiches, burgers, ice cream, shakes, malts, and more. 

Community mental health offers BIPOC youth hope through mental health supports

MI Mental Health spoke with Genesee Health System Director of Strategic Initiatives Angela Tyler on the importance of providing resources and services to BIPOC youth in Flint and throughout Genesee County.   

Big O Burgers and Barbecue now open in Midland
Big O Burgers and Barbecue expands with Midland location

Big O Burgers and Barbecue has expanded to include a third location, which opened in early February in Midland. The brick and mortar has roots in Saginaw, and will serve burgers, wings, brisket, rib tips, tacos, and more to the Midland community. 

New potash mining facility: Creating an economic impact on Evart and surrounding region

What could be the first potash mine in the state of Michigan, and one of the largest union-supported economic development projects in the country, Evart Township is one step closer to being home to a brand-new potash (potassium chloride) and salt production plant and processing facility – creating well over one thousand jobs in the area, along with local, statewide, and international impact.

The ownership of Birchwood Mall changed in February 2021, when Kohan Retail Investment Group purchased the mall. Since then there's been significant expansion with 13 new businesses at the mall and 4-5 more about to enter into a contract.
Shopping small gets big push in retail world in Fort Gratiot Township

As more shoppers aren’t spending as much time or money in traditional big chain retailers, the future of shopping malls is in question. Locally, Birchwood Mall has found a way to give small businesses a big focus.

There are some free-play games, as well as quarter machines which range from 25 cents to $1.
New beercade levels up downtown entertainment scene

Brinstar, a new beercade, is now open in downtown Midland. The restaurant, located on Main St., features vintage and new arcade games, a full menu, beer on tap, and mixed drinks.

Crazy Vines Winery is located at 37 East Saginaw Road in Sanford.
Crazy Vines Winery to open in Sanford, May 19

A new winery, Crazy Vines, is slated to open May 19 in Sanford. The business will serve wine, charcuterie boards, breads and oils, and cheesecakes.

"It’s filled with natural light, color, angles, and perspectives."
Alden B. Dow Home and Studio Tours Open to Public

Alden B. Dow Home and Studio public tours are now available for reservations. The historic architectural standout opens its doors for 1.5-hour long tours through colorful and naturally-lit space.

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