Entrepreneurship

50 years of paddling experiences on the Chippewa River

Nestled along Mt. Pleasant's Chippewa River, Buckley's Mountainside Canoes has been a hub for outdoor enthusiasts for decades. Founded by John and Donna Buckley, their passion for paddling and community engagement has shaped a legacy now carried forward by current owner Liz Busch. Their 50th season celebration highlights a journey of adventure, environmental stewardship, and community bonding that defines Buckley's as more than just a canoe livery.

Latest in Entrepreneurship
Elevate your June with community events in Mt. Pleasant

Explore many Mt. Pleasant June events, from paint-filled pavements to wine-paired dinners. Don't miss out on the vibrant community celebrations and exciting new experiences!

Multigenerational family farms in mid Michigan create a special legacy for everyone involved

Multigenerational family farms across central Michigan embody a tradition of hard work and familial bonds—with stories ranging from Bryant Family Farm's diverse agricultural endeavors to Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm's festive reindeer herding, and Doodles Sugarbush's sweet maple syrup goods. Despite their differing specialties, these families share a deep-rooted commitment to their businesses and the joy of working together, creating enduring legacies and cherished memories.

Elevate grants help small Michigan businesses level up

Although headquartered in Indiana, the FHLBank of Indianapolis provides access to grant programs and resources for small businesses throughout Michigan. The Elevate Grant aims to generate more economic opportunity for all, and helps small businesses like Mushroom House Tours in Charlevoix and The Poke Bowl in Flint to level up.  

Summit Smokehouse & Tap Room raises the bar for crafting connections in Mt. Pleasant

Summit Smokehouse & Tap Room opened a new Shifties Mug Club Taproom, released a revamped menu, and has spruced up their outdoor patio seating. We talked with Summit’s Kash Meisheri about the changes to the Mt. Pleasant restaurant… And what’s next.

A party 90 years in the making: The Bird Bar and Grill celebrates anniversary

The Bird Bar and Grill hosted a party 90 years in the making Saturday, July 29, 2023. Epicenter photojournalist Dan Gaken was there to capture it all. Learn more about the history of downtown Mt. Pleasant’s beloved bar and recap the celebration in this photo essay.

Nostalgia meets modern at renovated movie theater in Clare

Aiming to amplify the Ideal Theater’s authentic architecture with accessibility and modernization—paired with passion to keep movie-going traditions alive—three sisters turned their renovation ideas into reality. Discover more about the history, renovations, and charm of Clare’s Ideal Theater in this Q&A with Lisa Benic.

Local culinary legends create a “stir” at Mt. Pleasant restaurant

International Nights from the Yin Yang Chefs at STIR Craft Cocktails & Modern Kitchen have returned! Hear from Chef Cindy Walz about their tradition that brings tastes from around the world to Mt. Pleasant, featuring local produce and meats. Plus, discover her advice on healthy meal planning.

Indoor axe throwing and corn hole entertainment venue coming this fall to Mt. Pleasant

Get ready to unleash your inner Viking! Valhalla Indoor Axe Throwing is coming this fall to Mt. Pleasant, offering axe-throwing adrenaline activities as well as corn hole and arcade games.

Wood Shop Social is awarded 2023 Best Small Business at MCSB Gala

As Wood Shop Social approaches their one-year anniversary in Mt. Pleasant, the restaurant is awarded as a 2023 Best Small Business at the annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business Gala.

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