Join us for our online Leader Exchange: Where AI Readiness is Won or Lost | Friday, May 8th 11am EST
AI is becoming part of how organizations operate, the same way the internet did. Not every organization will use it the same way, but every organization will be affected. Some are already in the middle of it, managing uneven adoption, unclear expectations, and teams at different stages. Others are still figuring out where to start. Wherever you are, readiness isn't optional. And what determines whether adoption takes hold is the leadership and culture conditions inside the organization. Building those
Fruit Tree Giveaway for Earth Day
What: The Aspire North Real Estate office will be giving away 4-foot-tall peach and plum trees (limit one tree per person). These trees are self-fertile/self-pollinating, so you can enjoy fruit with just one tree—and they’ll likely start producing by the second season after planting!When: April 22nd, starting at 8:00 AM until the last tree goes home.Why: To give back to the community and do good things for our beautiful earth
TBA Credit Union Turns New Memberships into Support for the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – Through a new membership initiative, You Join. We Give., TBA Credit Union (TBACU) donated $4,220 to the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA), supporting the organization’s work across northern Michigan. Launched in January 2026, the You Join. We Give. membership initiative turns the credit union’s $10 lifetime membership fee into a $10 donation to a local nonprofit, voted on by the TBACU team each quarter. NMCAA was selected as the credit union’s first-quarter partner,
Munson Healthcare Gift Strengthens Youth Mental Health Support Across Northern Michigan
Munson Healthcare Gift Strengthens Youth Mental Health Support Across Northern MichiganTRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Munson Healthcare today announced a gift of $10,000 to the Behavioral Health Initiative (BHI) to strengthen youth mental health services in the area. The gift will bolster two community-based solutions within the Northern Michigan Community Health Innovation Region (CHIR): MIFamily Resources Network and Therapy Corps.“As a nonprofit healthcare system, Munson is committed to reinvesting in our
.jpg){kind=logo}
Northwest Michigan Works! Hosts Registered Apprenticeship Lunch & Learn Race to Talent Celebration
NORTHWEST LOWER, MI—In honor of National Apprenticeship Week, Northwest Michigan Works is hosting a free Registered Apprenticeship Lunch and Learn Workshop & Race to Talent Celebration Thursday, April 23 from 11:30am to 1:30pm. Businesses, workforce partners and apprentices are invited to attend the interactive registered apprenticeship workshop at the Networks Northwest Conference Center, 1209 S Gar?eld Road, Traverse City, Michigan. The session will also include A Race to Talent Champion employer
Christy Nelson Honored with MACAE Lifetime Achievement Award for Leadership in Adult Education
NORTHWEST MICHIGAN— Northwest Michigan Works!, a program of Networks Northwest, proudly announces that Regional Director of Adult Education, Christy Nelson, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Michigan Adult, Community & Alternative Education Association (MACAE), recognizing more than 25 years of exceptional service and leadership in adult education. Nelson has dedicated her career to advancing opportunities for adult learners across Northwest Michigan, serving as a
TBA Credit Union Announces Chris Givens as Loan Operations Leader
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – TBA Credit Union (TBACU) announces the promotion of Chris Givens to Loan Operations Leader. In this role, Givens will oversee consumer loan processing and underwriting, supporting consistent lending decisions and strong service for both members and team members. His work directly supports TBACU’s mission to serve the community and build trusted relationships. Givens has held several lending roles at TBA Credit Union, including Senior Underwriter and Loan Officer, and brings proven
One-Day Workshop: Sharpen & Shine - Building as Leaders, to the Next Level
Being a leader isn’t something we “arrive at.” It’s something we continue to develop.That’s why I’m excited to be teaching a one-day workshop through Northwestern Michigan College Extended Education on May 21, 2026, in Traverse City: Sharpen & Shine: Building as Leaders, to the Next LevelThis session is designed for leaders who want practical tools they can use right away. We’ll focus on strengthening how you lead your team, communicate expectations, and navigate the real challenges that show up in
Northwest Michigan Works! partners with Walstrom Marine to Register first Marine Services Technician Apprenticeship in the Region
NORTHWEST LOWER, MI– Northwest Michigan Works!, in partnership with Walstrom Marine, has officially launched the region’s first-ever U.S. Department of Labor Registered Marine Services Technician Apprenticeship. The new apprenticeship marks a major milestone for professional trades training and workforce development in Northwest Lower Michigan. This innovative program will provide apprentices with a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience designed to meet industry needs and strengthen the skilled
Headshots and Handshakes Event on April 24th
? Headshots & Handshakes | April 24 ? ?? 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM I’m so excited to host another Headshots & Handshakes event—where professional headshots meet genuine connection—and I’m honored to have Kellie Van Antwerp and Furnish by KV Studio as the food and drink sponsor. A special thank-you to Furnish by KV Studio for supporting this event. Their passion for creative design and home staging helps local homes and businesses shine, making spaces more welcoming, beautiful, and functional throughout our
GTSB Financial, Inc. Announces Opening of Grand Traverse State Bank in Traverse City
GTSB Financial, Inc., the holding company of First State Bank of Michigan, announced the opening of Grand Traverse State Bank at 232 E. State Street, officially bringing its community-focused banking services to Traverse City this March.The new full-service branch marks a strategic expansion into one of Michigan’s fastest-growing regions and reflects GTSB Financials’ long-term commitment to investing in and supporting Northern Michigan communities.“This is a proud and exciting milestone for our
Food Access Through Art, Awards Donations to Local Food Pantries
Munson Healthcare Voices Program Celebrates Food Access Through Art, Awards Donations to Local Food Pantries TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Now in its fourth year, the Munson Healthcare Voices for Community Health program invited community members to share artwork inspired by Food Access, highlighting the vital role nutritious food plays in health and wellbeing. This year’s program introduced a new opportunity: winning artists were able to direct a $1,000 Munson Healthcare donation to a local food pantry of their
Miller Canfield to Present Branding Seminar in Traverse City
Miller Canfield will present Brand Smarter, a workshop and happy hour on branding, marketing and advertising, on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at The Workshop Brewing Company, 221 Garland St., Traverse City. The seminar will run from 4 to 5 p.m., with networking to follow from 5 to 7 p.m. Attorneys Kimberly Berger and Anita Marinelli will discuss trademark strategy, brand protection, website and social media compliance, licensing, and false and deceptive advertising issues. For more information, please
TBA Credit Union Welcomes Chris Dickens as Chief Credit Officer
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – TBA Credit Union welcomes Chris Dickens to their Executive Leadership Team as Chief Credit Officer, bringing more than 30 years of financial services leadership experience to the organization. In his role as Chief Credit Officer, Dickens will oversee the credit and risk strategy of the credit union’s commercial lending portfolio, ensuring safe and sound growth aligned with the credit union’s risk appetite, regulatory expectations, and member service goals. Dickens brings
Comfort Keepers of NWMI recognized as a top franchisee
Traverse City, Michigan (March 30, 2026)—Russ and Leslie Knopp were recently honored as part of the Comfort Keepers®’ Diamond Club during Comfort Keepers’ annual national conference in Dallas, Texas. The Diamond Club award is presented to the top 25 of more than 600 Comfort Keepers franchisees who have generated the highest revenue in the previous year within a single territory. “To be recognized at the national level is a special achievement,” notes Russ Knopp, “We are proud to accept this award, and
The Michigan Lupus Foundation Appoints Joni Krolczyk of Northern MI to its Board of Directors
THE MICHIGAN LUPUS FOUNDATION APPOINTS JONI KROLCZYK OF NORTHERN MI TO ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS(Michigan – March 26, 2026) – The Michigan Lupus Foundation is pleased to announce Joni Krolczyk of Eastlake, MI has been appointed to the Board of Directors. Krolczyk will help the foundation serve its mission to improve the quality of life for those living with lupus through support, education and research with the goal of finding a cure. “We are proud to welcome a new member to our Board of Directors, bringing
Munson’s Cowell Family Cancer Center Announces Achievement of Accreditation for Rectal Cancer, 1 of 8 Hospitals in Michigan
Munson’s Cowell Family Cancer Center Announces Achievement of Accreditation for Rectal Cancer, 1 of 8 Hospitals in MichiganAmerican College of Surgeons Awards Accreditation Through National ProgramTraverse City, Mich. - Munson Medical Center’s Cowell Family Cancer Center (CFCC) recently achieved accreditation through the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC), a distinction awarded by the American College of Surgeons. Munson Medical Center is one of only 8 hospitals in Michigan with this
Join GVSU for Applied AI & Entrepreneurship: Building Connections for Innovation
Join Us for Applied AI & Entrepreneurship: Building Connections for Innovation Grand Valley State University's College of Computing is bringing an exciting (FREE) opportunity to Traverse City, and we encourage everyone interested to consider attending. On Monday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., GVSU will host Applied AI & Entrepreneurship: Building Connections for Innovation at The Hagerty Center as part of Northern Michigan Startup Week. This event is designed for entrepreneurs, business leaders,
Northwest Michigan Works! Releases Updated Hot Jobs Report Highlighting In-Demand Careers
Northwest Michigan Works! has released an updated Hot Jobs Report, a regional workforce resource that highlights occupations with strong demand across Northwest Lower Michigan. The report identifies careers with high numbers of annual openings and provides information on wages and education and training pathways, helping jobseekers, educators, and employers better understand opportunities in the regional labor market. The updated report is based on current labor market information and regional workforce
Interlochen presents 2026 Run for the Arts 5K race
Interlochen Local Press Contact: Maureen Oleson, maureen.oleson@interlochen.org, 231.645.5518 Interlochen presents 2026 Run for the Arts 5K race Open to all runners and featuring live music and art installations, this family-friendly event will take place on Interlochen’s scenic campus May 2, 2026. INTERLOCHEN, Mich.—Interlochen is once again hosting the Run for the Arts 5K, a family-friendly run/walk for runners of all ages in the greater Grand Traverse, surrounding communities, and beyond.
HOME Agency Wins Multiple Honors at the 2026 American Advertising Awards
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 13, 2026 HOME Agency Wins Multiple Honors at the 2026 American Advertising Awards People-first startup agency recognized in its first year for digital, brand, and storytelling work across multiple client projects TRAVERSE CITY, MI —HOME Agency has been recognized with multiple honors at the 2026 American Advertising Awards, marking a significant milestone in the agency’s first year. The agency received four awards across digital experience, brand identity, and
Mind-Body Cardio (intenSati) Class at Modus+ Studio
Modus+ Studio is introducing a Mind-Body Cardio (intenSati) class, a dynamic workout that strengthens both the body and the mind. The class blends aerobic movement with spoken affirmations and guided meditation to build endurance, focus, and resilience.Participants move through rhythmic, choreographed cardio sequences while speaking short, intentional affirmations out loud. The combination of movement and language turns a traditional workout into a full mind-body practice that develops stamina,
.png)
Your First 30 Days: Designing Onboarding Packets That Accelerate Confidence and Performance
Business owners set the tone for how new employees experience their first days on the job. A thoughtfully designed onboarding packet does more than share paperwork—it shapes clarity, confidence, and culture from day one.Quick Snapshot for Busy Owners Strong onboarding packets reduce ramp-up time and early turnover. Clear structure and pacing prevent overwhelm and build confidence. Culture, expectations, and role clarity should appear early and often. Delivery format matters just as much as
Springfield Commercial Roofing Earns Michigan Platinum Contractor of the Year for the Third Time, Specialty Membrane Project of the Year, Reinforcing Statewide Leadership in Commercial Roofing Excellence
KINGSLEY, Michigan – Springfield Commercial Roofing has been named Duro-Last Michigan Platinum Contractor of the Year for the third time, a distinction that recognizes contractors who consistently demonstrate exceptional installation, quality, system performance, and adherence to rigorous industry standards. The Michigan Platinum Contractor designation represents the highest tier of contractor recognition and reflects sustained excellence in workmanship and execution across commercial roofing
Building Lasting Loyalty in the Subscription Era
TL;DR In a world where memberships are one click away from cancellation, loyalty isn’t about gimmicks—it’s about delivering ongoing value, tailored experiences, and effortless renewals. Brands that treat their subscribers as evolving partners, not static accounts, create compounding satisfaction and advocacy.Why Subscription Loyalty Feels Different Now Membership models have replaced one-time transactions. Customers now expect not only what they paid for—but continuous evidence that they made the right
.png)
How Small Businesses Can Maintain Healthy Cash Flow for Long-Term Stability and Growth
Keeping your business’s cash flow steady is like keeping the heart of your company beating. When cash consistently flows in and out with control, owners can make decisions confidently, plan for expansion, and avoid unnecessary debt. TL;DR Cash flow management is about timing — ensuring your business always has enough on hand to cover expenses while funding future opportunities. Focus on forecasting income, tracking expenses, invoicing consistently, and reinvesting wisely. Why Cash Flow
Brand Like You Mean It: Foundational Moves for Small Business Owners
A logo won’t save you. Neither will a slick font. Branding is a decision—not a decoration. When you’re starting a business, everything feels like it needs to happen at once. But brand work? That’s not extra. It’s structural. Every conversation, every pitch, every page on your site builds from this foundation. Get your brand right, and things start sticking. Get it wrong—or ignore it—and every next step slips through your fingers.Define Who You Are Before Anyone Else Does You don’t start with colors—you
.png)
Scroll-Stopping Stories: Visual Marketing for a Generation Raised Online
In the loud, over-saturated amphitheater of social media, attention isn’t earned through logic—it’s sparked through feeling. For younger audiences who live and breathe in pixels and scrolls, what’s seen matters more than what’s said. They’ve grown up immersed in visual content, fluent in meme-speak and trained to detect inauthenticity faster than a banner ad loads. For brands, this doesn’t just require aesthetic savvy; it demands cultural fluency and a willingness to trade control for creativity. Emotion
Crystal Mountain welcomes two dynamic leaders to the Groups Sales team
THOMPSONVILLE, Mich. (April 24, 2025) – Crystal Mountain, northern Michigan’s premier four-season resort, is thrilled to announce the hiring of two accomplished individuals to its sales leadership team. Ashley Curd and Skye Lemmen have joined Crystal Mountain as Group Sales Managers, bringing a wealth of experience and a shared passion for the region to their new roles.Ashley Curd, a Northern Michigan native, returns to her roots with a strong background in client management and engagement. Most recently,
Steps to Build and Sustain a Profitable Home Services Business
Have you ever dreamed of turning your knack for fixing things or your passion for home improvement into a lucrative business? Launching a home services enterprise could be your gateway to financial independence and professional fulfillment. However, the journey from concept to thriving business involves more than just good intentions – it requires strategic planning, insightful market analysis, and meticulous execution. Whether you’re aiming to become the go-to handyman in your neighborhood or the
The Innovator’s Mindset: Cultivating Creativity in Your Business
In today's fast-paced and increasingly digital world, small and mid-sized business owners are presented with unique opportunities to drive growth and enhance efficiency through digital innovation. The dynamic landscape of digital technology offers various tools and strategies to revolutionize the way businesses operate and interact with their customers. By embracing these technological advancements, you can not only streamline operations but also stay competitive in a rapidly-evolving
Taking the Reins: How to Direct Your Own Marketing Campaigns
In the fast-paced world of business, having a direct hand in your marketing efforts is not just an advantage; it's a necessity for growth and sustainability. Whether you are spearheading a startup, managing a small business, or forging ahead as a solo entrepreneur, understanding and executing effective marketing strategies internally can significantly impact your success. This comprehensive guide provides you with the steps to take charge of your marketing, allowing you to craft a message that resonates
Adobe Acrobat AI Assistant: All You Have to Do Is Ask Acrobat’s Generative AI Document & PDF Tool
Adobe Acrobat has long been an invaluable tool for business owners, entrepreneurs, and employees all over the world thanks to its wide array of PDF generation and editing tools. Now, Acrobat AI Assistant offers new benefits for businesses of all sizes. Acrobat AI Assistant’s revolutionary software can transform your business with its incredible features: Intelligent Search and Retrieval: Entrepreneurs frequently need to access specific information buried within a vast collection of documents. The
