Stories

Feature Story Sheri Faust, Executive Director of Friends of the St. Clair River.

Health of the St. Clair River: Conversation with Sheri Faust

The St. Clair River is vital to the communities bordering it and the commerce flowing through the Great Lakes Seaway. Keeping the river healthy and monitoring development along its shorelines is critical. The Keel talked with Sheri Faust to get an inside look at the health of the St. Clair River.

Feature Story Shannon and Todd Postill are the new owners of Family Tradition Tree Farm located in Kimball, Michigan.

Tree Farm in Kimball springs back to life with new owners

Formerly known as Tollander Tree Farm, Family Tradition Tree Farm in Kimball is taking root under new ownership, blending a long-held family business with new traditions.

Longform Napkin Lady

The Napkin Lady: 50,000 and counting for a Calhoun County collector

Her first napkin was collected at a birthday party when she was 5. Now the Smithsonian reaches out to her with requests to include her rare and one-of-a-kind pieces in their collections.

Feature Story New Vicksburg Arts logo

New logo and 'arts for all' focus unveiled at Vicksburg Arts Gala

The Vicksburg Arts Gala in November unveiled a new name, logo, and expanded commitment to increasing accessibility to the arts by adding programs that serve those who are neurodivergent or have special needs.

Longform Staci Stuart

A book-related accident didn't stop Albion woman from running two businesses

An unfortunate accident didn't stop bookstore co-owner Staci Stuart from also running a construction business, a field typically not well-represented by women. From her wheelchair, "She's the spider in the web, controlling the web."

Feature Story christmasimage

Alma author’s life-on-the-farm lessons find way into debut children's Christmas book

Life on the farm wasn’t always easy, but it certainly was memorable for Janet Defever, who grew up on the family dairy farm in Alma. The experience brought life lessons about gifts, second chances, and forgiveness she will never forget. Today, she shares these lessons in her debut children’s book, “Second Chance Christmas.”  

Feature Story hypecompetition

New pitch competition fuels dreams for young entrepreneurs in Southwest Michigan

The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber debuted a new pitch competition -- HYPE -- aimed at bolstering the dreams of young aspiring entrepreneurs. Thousands of dollars were awarded to help new businesses grow.

Feature Story Signs galore at the Kalamazoo Women's March

Voices of Youth: ACLU, YWCA Kalamazoo sue Michigan over Medicaid's abortion coverage ban

ACLU Kalamazoo and YWCA Kalamazoo are bringing a suit against the State of Michigan because of a ban on funding abortion care for Medicaid recipients.

Innovation News View of the Tittabawassee River below Sanford Dam

Midland, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers launch 3-year study to mitigate Tittabawassee River flooding

Midland's three-day charrette with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers launched a General Investigation study to address flooding risks, safety, and project viability.

Innovation News Patrick Whittaker

Meet Patrick Whittaker, owner of Sushi Remix

Patrick Whittaker’s Sushi Remix merges culinary innovation, community engagement, and local partnerships, enhancing Midland’s dining scene while celebrating its family-oriented culture.

Longform Tech Savvy Seniors

Albion elders becoming Tech Savvy thanks to Albion College students

 “I feel like us just being present in areas that seniors utilize a lot is making them feel more comfortable. They may be a little wary and feel like we’re going to rush through it. Being empathetic and understanding of their experiences is how we get around this,” 

Longform Small-team-smile

New series explores efforts to address oral health inequities

A new State of Health series highlights innovative approaches and partnerships tackling systemic barriers to oral health care for underserved populations.

Development News “The Recreation Passport is a tremendous value providing annual access to state parks, boating access sites, state forest campgrounds and more, all for $14,” says DNR Director Scott Bowen. Pictured here is the beach at Hoeft State Park on Lake Huron.

Recreation Passport grants to support park and trail improvements in these 13 Michigan counties

“The Recreation Passport is a tremendous value providing annual access to state parks, boating access sites, state forest campgrounds and more, all for $14,” says DNR Director Scott Bowen.

Development News “Our investment in Michigan marks the company’s first major investment to the U.S. market," says Christophe Lavigne, President of Highfield USA.

New jobs for Northwest Michigan as businesses expand operations in Cadillac and Traverse City

“Our investment in Michigan marks the company’s first major investment to the U.S. market and we chose Cadillac for its rich legacy in recreational boat building and the unwavering support of both the local and statewide communities,” says Christophe Lavigne, President of Highfield USA.

Development News View of the Tittabawassee River below Sanford Dam

Midland, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers launch 3-year study to mitigate Tittabawassee River flooding

Midland's three-day charrette with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers launched a General Investigation study to address flooding risks, safety, and project viability.

Development News Darth Blader submitted by: Danny Darzok, Jamie Beehr, John Bublitz, Nick Stine, Stephanie Daris

Darth Blader and others to join Midland's Snow Watch crew this season

Midland unveils newly named snowplows, boosts winter road services, and encourages residents to help maintain clear, safe streets this season.

Development News There's plenty to do outside this winter.

Winter happenings and holiday highlights this month

Midland offers festive events and winter programs this December, including the Snow Fest Market, It’s a Wonderful Life radio broadcast, birding at CNC, and more.

Development News A shot of Dow Gardens by Charles Bonham,

Explore winter beauty and traditions past at Dow Gardens

Dow Gardens welcomes visitors with festive lights, carolers, and educational tours, creating a joyful, nature-inspired holiday experience this December.