Overlooking downtown Buchanan.

Downtown Buchanan takes another step toward “living streets” with grant for placemaking project

“The new streetscape and public amenities will create space for community engagement with functional improvements that beautify the space and provide opportunities for flexibility of community and business use,” says Matt Weedon, Mayor of the City of Buchanan.

Heart, hospitality, and a side of nostalgia at Downtown Drugs Soda Shoppe

At Downtown Drugs in Mt. Pleasant, the charm of an old-fashioned soda counter meets the warmth of community connection. Guided by longtime local Agnes McDonald, the Soda Shoppe is more than a lunch spot—it’s a place filled with friendly faces, homemade comfort food, and small acts of kindness.

Community Impact Day expands, mobilizes volunteers across Michigan

The West Coast Chamber’s Community Impact Day grows statewide, rallying businesses, nonprofits, and individuals to create lasting community change.

Matt Acker, co-owner of Pavement Ends, is all smiles at the start of the race.
Gravel, growth, and the future of Barry-Roubaix in rural Michigan

In Hastings, the Barry-Roubaix gravel cycling race has become the largest event of its type in the world, driving economic revitalization, fostering community connections, and promoting an inclusive trail culture in a rural town that attracts thousands of visitors every spring.  

"Kohn Park will bring a much-needed gathering space to the heart of Sawyer—celebrating community, creativity and connection,” says David Bunte, Chikaming Township Supervisor.
New park planned to provide ‘much-needed gathering space in the heart of Sawyer’

"Kohn Park will bring a much-needed gathering space to the heart of Sawyer—celebrating community, creativity and connection,” says David Bunte, Chikaming Township Supervisor.

"Our goal is to receive submissions from every county in Michigan," said Lindsay Lights, chair of the Michigan Big Tree Hunt.
Statewide contest still seeks entries for Michigan’s largest trees in these 15 counties

"Our goal is to receive submissions from every county in Michigan," said Lindsay Lights, chair of the Michigan Big Tree Hunt.

The main floor of the trade show at the annual Making It In Michigan conference.
Coming up: Making It In Michigan Conference and Trade Show

“We look forward to hosting the Making It In Michigan Conference and Trade Show in May and are pleased to continue our partnership with MDARD for this year’s event,” said Mollie Woods, director of the MSU Product Center. “We welcome retail buyers as well as the public to this event, which always has a strong base of Michigan food and beverage manufacturers.” 

Produce and fish waste products on display at the tribe's farm in Leelanau County.
Grand Traverse Band’s fish waste recycling efforts lure national attention

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians began recycling fish waste in earnest a few years ago. Their environmental efforts have been attracting regional and national attention. 

A river runs through it: Gladwin County plans its first-ever canoe and kayak race

The first-ever canoe and kayak marathon on the Cedar River in Gladwin County takes place this month. Organizer aim to make the race and an annual event, with an eye on building community and attract outdoor enthusiast to the rural county.

Career tech program tackles skilled trades labor shortage

Allegan Tech Center equips students with real-world manufacturing skills, addressing industry gaps and opening career paths for hands-on learners.

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