Features

Feature Story Kids in the MFAK program learn instruments

U.P. program brings music to underserved youth

Music for All Kids founder Shane Murray operates under the belief that all young people deserve to have music in their lives, and offers up free instruments and music training to make that happen.

Feature Story U.P. author John Smolens

Writers find inspiration, stories in the U.P.

Some do it for love, some for money. These five U.P. authors write for the love of telling a story and try to make a buck from it in the process.

Feature Story Detroit urban farming

Small-scale, big deal: UIX invites innovators to exchange ideas in Detroit

In September, Detroit will host a gathering of innovators, community activists and entrepreneurs working to help their cities grow. It's not your typical economic development conference, though; UIX will focus on small-scale projects like pop-up stores and urban farms.

Feature Story The future of Michigan energy

Powering the Mitten: Where will Michigan's energy come from in 20 years?

This fall, legislators in Lansing will take up the question of where Michigan should get its energy in the future. Nina Ignaczak spoke to experts across the sector to find out what they think Michigan's energy landscape will look like in 20 years.

Feature Story 906 Technology's Lee Francisco.

906 Technologies taking the mobile app world by storm

906 Technologies in Marquette is a small company that has achieved large success in a relatively short time--and one you'll definitely want to keep your eye on.

Feature Story Tasty bite to eat at Andrew Sear's Paladino's Cafe.

New cafe owner has big ideas for U.P. culinary scene

More than a decade in the restaurant business has taught Andrew Sear a few things, and his first solo venture--Paladino's, in the basement of Peter White Public Library in Marquette--gives him a platform to share them with U.P. foodies.

Feature Story Michigan's Children

Long-time children's advocate embraces new role

As Matt Gillard takes the helm of Michigan’s Children, a statewide, nonpartisan advocacy group, he plans to move children’s issues up the priority list for elected officials. 

Feature Story Michigan DEQ director Dan Wyant.

Q&A with Dan Wyant, Director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality

Dan Wyant, director of the MDEQ, sat down and had a chat about the Clean Air Act and carbon emissions. See what he had to say. 

Feature Story A sauna under construction in Engadine.

U.P. company perfects the portable sauna

Many times we can retool an existing product and generate a profit from it. Read how the Upper Peninsula Sauna Company has just done that with a product that is unique to the U.P.

Feature Story Marvel Comic's character Iron Fist by Jay De Foy.

Cool jobs: I make comics

The comics scene is one that's growing and becoming a bigger part of mainstream culture in recent years. Several comics creators and artists are building careers with Michigan as their home base, including our managing editor.

Feature Story sustainable fishing

The future of sustainable fishing in the U.P.

The future of commercial fishing in the Upper Peninsula depends on lake ecology and the willingness of a new generation to learn the skills and way of life of those who fish the Great Lakes. 

Feature Story Spring, Miners Falls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Photo of the Week: Spring and falls

Shawn Malone captured this tranquil photo of Miners Falls while out and about recently.

Feature Story Andrea Aho of Lake Superior Chocolate Company

Cool jobs: I make chocolate

Three Michigan chocolatiers discuss how they got started, what goes into their delicious creations, and what it's like to be the best-loved business owner in town. 

Feature Story it is morel season in the UP

Photo of the Week: The morel of the story

Don't ask Shawn Malone where her secret spots are for finding these tasty treats, but feel free to drool all you'd like.

Feature Story Sault St. Marie

Small grant could have big impact on eastern U.P.

A new governor's grant focusing on prosperity will help regional economic development entities improve efficiency, spur economic development and purchase needed video conferencing equipment.

Feature Story MTU's Charles Wallace of Breaking Digital Barriers project

Universities get a little help from their friends with crowdfunding

Universities in Michigan are getting into the act of seeking funds via crowdfunding for research projects and entrepreneurial ideas. Read how two universities are using crowdfunding to support projects that will impact our lives.

Feature Story last of the ice? Lake Superior gold reflections at sunset | Shawn Malone

Photo of the Week: The last ice of Lake Superior

Shawn Malone snapped a photo of one of the last pieces of ice --with the beauty of a gem -- on the beach of Lake Superior. 

Feature Story Iron Mountain's Rebecca Grider.

Iron Mountain Main Street learns from Detroit

Iron Mountain Main Street is among the Michigan Main Street organizations learning from the revitalization of Detroit this week.

Feature Story Shaylyn Eggleston grabs a bite to eat at Dia De Los Tacos.

Marquette's treasure trove of tacos

Our editor Sam Eggleston takes a look at the wide variety of taco options available to Marquette foodies with a love for the humble taco. 

Feature Story Cold Lake Superior Temps clash with warm air creating a massive fogbank I Shawn Malone

Photo of the Week: Fog Rolls In

The ice is still holding on in Lake Superior, but the warm air is bringing is some spectacular views -- and fog.