Features

Feature Story Bonny's Clean Up Crew List Image

Mt. Pleasant July Events: Summer thrills and community highlights

July in Mt. Pleasant and Isabella County is packed with summer events for all ages. Whether you’re looking to celebrate Independence Day, explore local markets, the County Fair, or join unique experiences like the Rubber Duck Derby and Messy Art Night, there’s something happening every week to make the most of summer in central Michigan.

Feature Story Lauren Cahill List Image

Empowering Educators: Lauren Cahill’s lasting influence on future teachers

Lauren Cahill, an academic advisor at CMU, helps future teachers find confidence and purpose through mentorship and connection. By guiding students and giving back to her community, see how this 40 Under 40 Award recipient shows how lifting others can make a lasting impact.

Feature Story Roots n Roost

From Chickens to Commerce: How Renaissance students hatched a business plan

What began as a hands-on classroom experiment at Renaissance Public School Academy quickly evolved into a thriving student-led venture. Blending agricultural learning with entrepreneurship, students are hatching chickens, harvesting produce, and managing retail sales at the Mt. Pleasant Farmers’ Market. But the most remarkable growth may be what’s happening behind the scenes. With community partners stepping in to support and guide them, these young innovators are proving that with the right environment, big ideas can grow from humble beginnings.

Feature Story Guys & Dolls 50 Years

Fifty years in focus capturing generations and preserving memories

For 50 years, Guys & Dolls Photography has been capturing the milestones, memories, and moments that define life in Mt. Pleasant. From high school seniors and family portraits to weddings and school picture days, the studio is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Feature Story The Gaming Cantina

Mt. Pleasant’s The Gaming Cantina brings back the art of face-to-face fun

The Gaming Cantina is bringing people together in Mt. Pleasant through tabletop games, tournaments, and a welcoming space to connect over cards and board games. Celebrating six months of being open downtown, the store’s owner hopes to foster both gaming skills and social confidence while building a growing community around face-to-face play.

Feature Story Stock List Image Camera

Mt. Pleasant Police launches new security camera database to speed investigations

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department’s new voluntary security camera database has already attracted 45 participants in its first month. By allowing investigators to quickly identify available footage when incidents occur, the program aims to save critical time during active investigations. Residents and businesses can opt in at any time and retain full control over their footage.

Feature Story  Olver Lavender

Four Suns Farm opens for its first full summer season in Mt. Pleasant

Created with intention and rooted in family values, Four Suns Farm opens to the Mt. Pleasant community this summer. Offering yoga, workshops, lavender products, and peaceful experiences in nature, Tom and Stephanie Olver have cultivated more than just crops—they’ve created a space for connection. Learn about the family’s inspiration, upcoming events, and how this new local destination is growing something meaningful for all.

In The News Wheatland List Image

Wheatland’s upcoming adult summer camp strikes a chord with musicians

The Wheatland Music Organization’s Summer Wheat Music Camp returns in June for six days of hands-on instruction in traditional music. Open to adult learners of all skill levels, the camp blends intimate workshops, jam sessions, and community-building experiences, all led by nationally recognized instructors. Participants can learn everything from dulcimer to banjo while enjoying tai chi, group meals, and nightly performances in an immersive folk music environment.

Feature Story MPCBF List

Summer in Mt. Pleasant kicks off with community, culture, and celebratory events

Music and markets; workshops and wellness; dining and drinking; cars and challenges. Here are just a few Mt. Pleasant June 2025 events that’ll keep the community busy as the summer season kicks off.

Longform PreK for All ensures that every 4-year-old in Michigan has access to a high-quality preschool experience, regardless of income.

“A lifeline for families,” PreK for All expands access and raises expectations

Enrollment in PreK for All is now open for all families, no matter their income. The program operates across a mixed delivery system, including local school districts, public charter schools, private child care providers, Head Start programs, and community-based organizations.    

Partner Content Event helps autistic children and adults get used to the airport environment and boarding experience.

On Board for Autism: Airport simulation helps autistic kids take flight

To help autistic people and their families manage  these challenges, Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM), Delta Airlines, and the Detroit Metropolitan Airport partner to host On Board for Autism events that prepare them to successfully take a flight.

Feature Story Arnekrans List Image

From the classroom to the community, Allison Arnekrans finds purpose in building a culture of care

Allison Arnekrans believes in showing up—for students, for neighbors, and for the profession of counseling. Amid uncertainty in higher education, this 40 Under 40 awardee continues to lead with intentionality and compassion, shaping the next generation of counselors while strengthening the sense of belonging that’s part of living in Mt. Pleasant.

Longform small-judy-logan

Dental aid helps cancer patients regain health and dignity

HNC Living Foundation provides dental care, nutrition, and support to head and neck cancer patients facing financial and treatment challenges.

Partner Content Boy in classroom

Blueprint for school funding would ensure equitable resources in special education

The MI Special Education Finance Reform Blueprint would ensure that Michigan adequately and equitably funds public special education in Michigan. 

Feature Story All Gods Children teacher

No-cost pre-K for all Michigan 4-year-olds enrolling for 2025-26 school year

QA with Jeffrey Capizzano, Policy Equity Group, on the implementation of Pre-K for All no-cost preschool for Michigan 4-year-olds.

Feature Story Deerfield List Image

Blossoms, Bridges, and River Views: Where to hit the trails this spring in Mt. Pleasant

Mt. Pleasant is home to some of mid Michigan’s most scenic trail systems, perfect for spring recreation. This seasonal roundup features top picks from staff at the City of Mt. Pleasant and Isabella County Parks & Recreation—including routes with wildflower views, river crossings, and family-friendly amenities.

Feature Story Lions Club

Serving with Purpose: Lions Club continues its legacy in Mt. Pleasant

For over 75 years, the Mt. Pleasant Lions Club has been a steady force in the community, supporting more than 25 local organizations. From hosting its recent 70th annual Chicken BBQ to providing meals at the homeless shelter and funding youth athletics, the Lions Club remains committed to its mission of service—locally and beyond.

Longform Lauren LaPine

Medicaid cuts would destabilize mental health care: How Michigan is responding

Proposed Medicaid funding cuts would dismantle critical services, especially for residents facing poverty, mental illness, or substance use disorders — and reduce access to mental health services for all.

In The News MPCAF Give Local 2025

Give Local Isabella 2025: Matching funds and new prizes build momentum for May 6

Give Local Isabella returns on May 6, inviting the Mt. Pleasant community to rally for 24 hours of giving in support of local nonprofits and initiatives. With $45,000 in matching funds, new prizes, and in-person celebrations at Max & Emily’s and Pleasant City Coffee, the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation aims to spark generosity and deepen community connections during this annual fundraising event.

Feature Story Beth Binder List Image

Emerging leader Beth Binder helps shape mid Michigan’s future workforce through accessible education

Beth Binder, a CMU alumni and 40 Under 40 awardee, is helping shape the future of mid Michigan through her work as Director of Admissions at Mid Michigan College. Focused on breaking down barriers to education, Binder’s efforts are making it easier for local students to pursue degrees, build career pathways, and stay rooted in the community they call home.