Community mental health and child welfare collaborate to care for Michigan’s vulnerable children
Michigan’s community mental health (CMH) agencies are the lead in providing mental health care for children in the child welfare system.
Promoting Mt. Pleasant: How Jordan Ensing Is championing community connection through tourism
A CMU alum, 40 Under 40 awardee, and passionate advocate for the area, Jordan Ensing is using her role at the CVB to foster connections, empower frontline workers, and ensure Mt. Pleasant’s welcoming spirit reaches both residents and visitors alike.
Michigan’s hospitals and improved pediatric behavioral health care
The Michigan Health and Hospital Association addresses pediatric behavioral health care with data, advocacy, and grant funding of member hospital programs.
Cheers to Change: Inside the “shift” at Shifties Taproom for National Beer Day
In honor of National Beer Day, Epicenter catches up with Erich Focht, general manager at Summit Smokehouse, to learn about the evolution of Shifties Taproom. Once an exclusive space for Mug Club members, Shifties is now open to the public and aims to recreate the welcoming community vibe of the original Mountain Town Tap Room—with craft beer, laid-back lounge vibes, and plans for future distilling and new summer brews on the way.
Mt. Pleasant April 2025 Events Guide: Festivals, food, fundraisers & spring fun
From film festivals and cookie decorating classes to bourbon fundraisers, brunches, and maple syrup celebrations, April 2025 is blooming with local Mt. Pleasant events. Whether you're into arts and culture, supporting community causes, or just looking for a reason to get out and enjoy the season, this event roundup has something for everyone.
Breaking Barriers: Dr. Jessica Rickert inspires native dentists
Jessica Rickert, DDS, the first American Indian female dentist, advocates for oral health equity and inspires Native youth through mentorship and representation.
Countywide mental health millages have remarkable results
Jackson, Hillsdale, Ottawa, and Washtenaw counties passed mental health millages and seen positive impacts such as expanded access to care to their residents, increased service capacity, improved crisis response, and more.
Inside Soolicious Cake Art Studio: Passion, precision, and the perfect buttercream
At Soolicious Cake Art Studio, pastry chef Soo Bradley combines skill, passion, and high-quality ingredients to create custom cakes and baked goods that elevate special occasions. After training at Le Cordon Bleu Australia and spending over a decade as a pastry chef, Bradley opened her own storefront in Mt. Pleasant in 2023—quickly becoming a beloved destination for handcrafted desserts.
From historic preservation to new comedy series, Mt. Pleasant’s Broadway Theatre continues to evolve
The Broadway Theatre has been a cultural staple in downtown Mt. Pleasant for over a century, offering live performances, films, and community-driven events. Led by the Friends of the Broadway nonprofit, efforts to restore and enhance the historic venue are underway, including accessibility improvements, stage renovations, and a newly launched "Comedy Slam!" series.
Finch Fieldhouse Turns 75: CMU honors a campus icon with history, memories, and innovation
For 75 years, Finch Fieldhouse has been a cornerstone of Central Michigan University, evolving from an athletic facility into a multi-purpose hub for academics, recreation, and community events. An upcoming free event invites alumni and the public to reflect on Finch’s impact and celebrate its future as a vital part of CMU’s campus.
