Alexis Hansen brings a wealth of experience to the mid-Michigan area from varied recreation roles—including her most recent position as Director of Isabella County Parks & Recreation. The county boasts diverse parks, trails, and plans for upgrades. Explore the exciting enhancements Hansen anticipates in 2024, from trail expansions to facility improvements, aligning with a new five-year recreation master plan.

Michigan now offers more track chairs for public use than any other state parks and recreation system.

Important Finnish American cultural institutions in Hancock have been preserved on the former campus of Finlandia University, thanks to the purchase by a national nonprofit organization. 

On a farm in Ingham County, Bridget Kavanagh raises sheep and goats for eco-friendly fiber for her many home-grown products. The wool is used for spinners, handspun yarns, hats, headbands, cowls and socks, dryer balls and more.

The Soup Project delivers freshly made soup and muffins to the elderly and others in the Ionia County community of Portland each week. 

Larry J. Wagenaar has lived in West Michigan for more than 30 years. He’s the CEO of the Historical Society of Michigan, which has released an updated version of the Historic Michigan Travel Guide.

Mont Ripley Ski Area, unique among Michigan alpine destinations, has launched a fund-raising campaign to expand its long-standing chalet and make other improvements.

The Michigan Military Heritage Museum in Jackson shares the often-overlooked stories of the men and women who have served in our nation's wars. The museum has its own story, beginning with one veteran's humble decision to preserve artifacts and the stories of these men and women. 

Hilltop View Apartments received an award from the national Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition. Staff say the complex is "a place to land" for people healing from traumatic experiences.