(L – R) Deidre Fields, community partner, James Gunter, community advocate, and Ashley Hines, executive director of Benton Harbor Community Development Corporation, in front of the African American History Gallery on Broadway Avenue in Benton Harbor.

Bold revitalization plan for Benton Harbor’s Empire Corridor

Community-driven revitalization plan for Benton Harbor Empire Corridor envisions a neighborhood transformed into a vibrant haven for all.

Menominee’s Wind Rose North outfits outdoor enthusiasts

Family trips out West inspired a Menominee couple to open an outdoor equipment store more than two decades ago. Today, their son owns Wind Rose North Outfitters, successfully navigating an ever-changing economic river to provide quality gear and equipment to outdoor enthusiasts. 

Farm to School: Lessons in fresh, local food

A new project by the Western Upper Peninsula Planning and Development aims to bring fresh produce to school children in two intermediate school districts. Farm to School will also expand understanding of and access to fresh, local food through a variety of activities. 

Grant helps fix homes in Marquette County

“Low-income homeowners in our area struggle to afford to hire contractors due to labor shortages and increasing prices,” said Henry Sale, a repairs coordinator for Marquette County Habitat for Humanity. “Marquette County Habitat for Humanity’s repair program exists to help these homeowners be safe in their homes.”

Grant program will help improve crucial roads

“These grants will help communities across Michigan fix local roads faster to get people to work, allow businesses to expand, and move goods all year round,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

STEM tour kicks off in Houghton on Dec. 12

Guided by students from Michigan Technological University, middle school participants from across the U.P. will discover firsthand the awe and power of science through a STEM road show by the Mind Trekkers.

James Ribbron reads to Dwayne Sharpe and Elizabeth Brooks.
Detroit Champions for HOPE empowers parents as their children’s first teachers

Through a focus on advocacy, community leadership, and parent engagement, Detroit Champions for HOPE works to better the lives of Detroit’s children by empowering parents and caregivers to be their child’s first champions.

Suicide is also the second-leading cause of death for Michigan residents ages 15 to 34
Suicide prevention coalitions address a leading cause of death in Michigan

Across the state, more than 40 suicide prevention coalitions work to help Michiganders who are thinking about ending their lives.

Gladstone: A hub for outdoor innovation

What is about Gladstone that inspires outdoor innovators? Walleye fishing? Hunting? Wherever that inspiration comes from, this outdoor community in Delta County is home to a multitude of outdoor manufacturers, creating everything from knives to fishing lures. 

Many floats in the Starry Starry Night parade were sponsored by local businesses in the small Grand Marais community.
Starry Starry Night boosts economy, culture in Grand Marais

“It's one of the big events for us throughout the year,” said Toni Whaley, who owns Grand Marais Mercantile and helps organize Starry Starry Night. “We want to make sure that our retailers, our crafters, our artists — as well as our wonderful restaurants — have plenty of people that come and enjoy what we have to offer.”  

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