Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary Receives National Recognition for the Third Grade Get Into Your Sanctuary Program
Alpena, MI (March 2025)— Friends of Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary
Headwaters Land Conservancy Preserves Presque Isle County’s Unique Wetlands
Ocqueoc, MI (December 2024)—It’s an uncommon experience to catch a glimpse of the endangered Emerald dragonfly — when you do, its vivid emerald eyes and intricate wings make for an unforgettable encounter with nature. Along the rare dune and swale ecosystems on the shores of Lake Huron, moments with species like these are still possible. And worth preserving. Headwaters Land Conservancy is on a mission to protect northern Michigan’s most vulnerable landscapes and the remarkable species that inhabit them. Without conservation, these sensitive ecosystems face the threat of development, which could alter the land and put its fragile biodiversity at risk.
Empowering Youth Through the Arts with Shakespeare in Detroit’s STEAM Program
Detroit, MI (October 2024)—During a recent production of Julius Caesar in Detroit, a familiar young face glided through the bustling set. She paused to adjust props, lend a hand with costumes and offer words of encouragement to the actors. Kennedy, a production assistant, felt at home with the Shakespeare in Detroit team. Once a participant in its student program, she returned not only for her love of theater, but also to mentor the next generation of aspiring artists.
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ISAIC Opens Career Pathways in Industrial Sewing and Manufacturing
Detroit, MI (October 2024) -When Jen Guarino wraps up her day at the Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC), she often encounters a familiar face still immersed in his work in the lab. “Okay, Emery, I’m closing up shop,” she says, spotting Emery Jones, a recent graduate of the Fundamentals of Industrial Sewing and Production (FISP) program. With a passion for transforming fabric scraps into innovative designs, Emery is working on what he hopes will be his own clothing line.
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Centrepolis Accelerator Brings Innovative Manufacturing Products to Life
Southfield, MI (August 2024) -Imagine how much easier snow removal would be if, say, a robot could do it for you. What if a smart AI cutting board could help you plan, prep and execute more nutritious meals? These are the kind of cutting-edge ideas that Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Technological University helps bring to life.
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Working to Protect Michigan Wetlands with Ducks Unlimited
Saginaw County, MI (August 2024)—Nestled in the heart of Michigan lies the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary teeming with wildlife, wetlands and birds galore – song birds, herons, wood ducks, egret, eagles, tundra swans and even pelicans. The refuge, sometimes referred to as the “Everglades of the North,” comprises 10,000 acres of natural habitat, a birder’s paradise that beckons nature enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
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Huron Pines Ensures Resiliency through River Restoration and Stormwater Management
Gaylord, MI (August 2024)—Michigan’s lakes and rivers hold a special significance for both Huron Pines and the Walters Family Foundation. This shared appreciation has forged a partnership spanning over seven years and multiple grants – all dedicated to restoring and revitalizing our region’s precious natural environments. One of the key benefits of this long-standing partnership is a shared understanding of the impact of this important environmental work and the ability to uncover new opportunities together.
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Three-Year Challenge Grant Catalyzes Racquet Up’s Impact
Detroit, MI (August 2024)—Forbes named it #1 of the top ten healthiest sports. It’s a calorie burner, a flexibility booster, a mental toughness builder, and so much more. It’s squash. At Racquet Up Detroit, squash isn't just a game – it's a catalyst for unleashing youth potential. Participants enjoy world-class coaching, robust academic support and character-building activities from the 5th grade all the way through graduation from high school and college.
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Lean Rocket Lab Expands Opportunities to Entrepreneurs in Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale Counties
Jackson, MI (August 2024) - What do a doula, a dog groomer and a coach for parents have in common? These are just a few of the small businesses that make up Lean Rocket Lab LOCAL’s 2024 Fellows Bootcamp. Supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and a three-year grant from Walters Family Foundation, the Bootcamp serves new entrepreneurs in Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale counties.
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TechTown’s Retail Boot Camp Ensures Excellence in Entrepreneurship
Detroit, MI (May 2024) - During his 50-plus-year career as a Detroit musician, Freddie Palmer noticed a common problem among on-stage keyboardists: their sustain pedal never stayed in one place. This often caused distractions and forced musicians to make adjustments that took them out of the moment. Palmer often wondered why no one had come up with a solution. So, he set out to invent one.
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