Nannette Miller, library director at Elk Rapids District Library, plans to retire in April.

Elk Rapids library tackles the digital divide

This small rural library in northern Michigan has managed to stay on top of the digital needs of its residents, offering WiFi HotSpots, internet access and more. 

Demiree Fultz, owner of Ruboo Boutique and organizer of the empowHER Conference.
Local entrepreneur to launch women’s empowerment conference in downtown Port Huron this April

“The goal of the event is to bring women together and make them feel empowered and encouraged, because I feel it’s really lacking in today's community,” says Demiree Fultz, owner of Ruboo Boutique and organizer of the empowHER Conference. “Hopefully this can become an annual event and change the lives of those who attend.”

Shelby Township resident Nicholas Tabarias has rediscovered his love of writing and performing music since recovering from gambling addiction.
Michigan tackles dramatic rise in problem gambling

Numerous Michiganders have struggled with problem gambling since online gambling was legalized in the state, but help is available.

Frank's is Zeeland's oldest restaurant. A partnership with Frank's owner Shane Hammer has created the city's newest eatery.
Partnership with Zeeland’s oldest restaurant brings new eatery

The COVID-19 pandemic has done a great many things. But one of the good ones is to show how much people are willing to help each other. From a partnership with Zeeland's oldest restaurant and one of its most popular ones, a new venture was formed.

A craft beer enthusiast, Jeremy Grossenbacher grew up in Coopersville.
Coopersville brewery creates sense of community

A Coopersville native returned to his hometown and opened a craft brewery. Coopersville Brewing Co. is helping put the farming community on the map and creating a sense of community for newcomers and old-timers alike. 

The Inn on Water Street in downtown Marine City.
How these two local businesses have formed a mutually beneficial partnership in downtown Marine City

“We grew out of our Broadway location so quickly and have been looking to expand for some time,” Steve Neiman says. “We really love the community and when the offer from the Inn came up — it was a beautiful view, great people, room for parking, and indoor and outdoor seating — it was a no-brainer for us.”

Signage promoting physical activity in Baldwin.
District Health Department #10 builds healthier communities in 10 Michigan counties

DHD#10 uses a variety of evidence-based programs and approaches to create a broader culture of health through their policies, systems, and environmental change work. 

Frank Kraai, of Holland, poses along the Window on The Waterfront park in Holland, Michigan where a new ice rink will be built after he donated $1 million toward the effort.
Retired teacher donates $1M to bring “pure joy” to Michigan community

Retired teacher Frank Kraai is giving his life savings of $1 million to bring an ice skating rink to downtown Holland that he hopes will bring “pure joy” to the residents.

"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.

Alpena hospital receives $500,000 grant for new tower project

The Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan donated $500,000 to new tower under construction at MyMichigan Medical Center in Alpena.

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