Muskegon Rising had the pleasure of sitting down with a beloved figure, Dr. Rem Sprague, whose dedication to healthcare has touched countless lives in Muskegon County. Join us as we uncover the wisdom and experiences of this esteemed doctor and explore the impact of the important work happening at Trinity Health. Dr. Sprague explains the logistics behind the Trinity Health merger and how it systematically and systemically changes the healthcare provided in Muskegon County. We also discuss the need and resource efforts for serving our Mental Health Community further in the coming years, as well as how we as individuals can start to impact our overall community health. Dr. Sprague, now retired, enjoys spending time with his wife Ginny, hiking, and interacting with his grandkids, and he is pursuing his acting career. 

In today’s episode, Rotarian Lisa Stafford is joined by Stacey Kennedy, the Mission Advancement Lead of Youth for Christ, a global movement dedicated to reaching young people with the transformative message of Jesus Christ.

Kendrah Robinson, local attorney and public defender, talks with DJ Hilson, Muskegon County Prosecutor, about her dynamic initiative for students. Aspiring Ladies of Law is a Muskegon County high school mentorship program empowering young high school ladies to become the future of our Legal careers. These ladies volunteer themselves to receive legal knowledge, jumpstarting them in admission to Law School, advancing past the bar, and ultimately, the practice of law. 

The Deck restaurant, located on Pere Marquette beach, has grown from a small deck to a sprawling establishment that draws patrons from long distances for food, beverages, music, and a fun atmosphere that includes swings, games, live music, and, of course, sand and amazing views of Lake Michigan.

Kendrah Robinson explores hope and new attitudes with Tatum Hawkins, Director of Development and Communications of the Women's Resource Center. This innovative organization offers hope and new perspectives to women where it was once lacking or void. Women in Muskegon who are justice-involved now have a resource to assist them while they’re incarcerated, and upon release—our community benefits from the resulting growth and improved outlooks. The methods may surprise you, but they won't disappoint.

With beautiful views of Muskegon Lake, Adelaide Point is a $250 million development providing the community with many opportunities. We discuss the history of the property and the development of condos, a marina, boat storage, and a public access pier, while also supporting the local waterfront bike path and a partnership with Pigeon Hill Brewing that rebirths Muskegon Brewing Company in our discussion. Dr. Emily Leestma and her husband, Ryan’s, passion for the environment is also a wonderful aspect of this development.

Jon Rooks owns and runs Parkland Properties, a major developer in the Muskegon area. At a very early age, he began to develop his talents as a visionary and developer. Muskegon was a diamond in the rough as it relates to development and growth. Jon Rooks tested the waters of what development could do in Muskegon and has never looked back. Mr. Rook's philosophy and the mission of Parkland Properties are alive and well in the Muskegon area. Now, you, as listeners, get to hear and feel the changing tide. This is an episode you do not want to miss.

Navarro’s Mexican Takeout has been a staple in Muskegon Heights for nearly 45 years. Marisela Sierra is a third generation owner and continues her family’s legacy, while also introducing the family business to a whole new generation.

Welcome to our podcast introducing Goodwill Industries of West Michigan. We delve into the heart of giving, community, and the transformative power of generosity. We explore the profound impact of the Goodwill organization here in our community and around the world.

Muskegon has a rich history starting with the lumber industry, transitioning to manufacturing and now supports a robust and diverse economy. Downtown Muskegon has seen tremendous growth since the early 2000’s because of the dedication and forward-thinking of many individuals. The new economy began with the redevelopment of the Muskegon Mall property. Muskegon leaders are planning for the next 100 years of success in the region. Local, national, and international firms continue to invest in Muskegon County because of the amazing quality of life and strong skilled workforce present in the area. Muskegon County has Great Downtowns and Great Outdoors. 

The Muskegon Area Promise offers the financial assistance required to obtain a two-year degree at either Muskegon Community College or Baker College. Learn how students can take advantage of this wonderful assistance to improve their lives through this award they must earn. The Muskegon Intermediate School District manages this community asset which has been funded by local donors interested in keeping our talented students here, in Muskegon County, to develop their families and careers. 

The Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park offers year-round opportunities to enjoy outdoor recreation and excitement. Decades of planning and growth have forged a recreational asset that is increasingly valued by travelers and locals alike. Here is what you need to know on how to best enjoy this amazing park for enjoyment and exercise all year long. Luge for beginners, ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are winter favorites. Or just enjoy a fireside get-together with friends. In summer, the park offers luge-ing without ice, a rock-climbing wall, a zip line and free use of all the wooded trails in the park for hiking.  

Muskegon, Michigan is a jewel of excitement as well as relaxation, beaches, parks, festivals, rivers, lakes and culture too. Bob Lukens, Community Development Director for Muskegon County, shares his experiences in helping to make this West Michigan community a tourism destination that is luring visitors from around the nation. 

The Nelson Neighborhood Association in Muskegon, Michigan is a model mid-western, non-profit organization, grounded in history and service. Their neighborhood improvements are driven with enthusiasm and insight. Learn how they do it in this interview with their current President, Paula Kendra. 

You might be tempted to think that positive, lasting change has little or nothing to do with criminal justice, but you’d be wrong. Fred Johnson, Chief Public Defender for Muskegon County, and fellow Public Defender, Kendrah Robinson reveal the effort and insight required to apply justice in all its meanings. They are two of the twenty public defenders applying competence and compassion to the work of making our community a better and safer place to be. This is their story. 

Monica Turnbull, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore, discusses the new facility and wonderful benefits for local youth in greater Muskegon. Host DJ Hilson provides context to this community treasure as not only the program's moderator, but active in the fundraising and board leadership since the club's founding in 2014. 

Illiteracy is a major social and economic problem in our community, affecting more people and situations than you might think. READ Muskegon is doing something about it. Melissa Moore, CEO of READ Muskegon, continues to develop an important asset in our community; a cooperative effort to bring improved literacy to the large number of adults in our community who cannot read. Nick Green, a Muskegon Rotarian, is surprised, as you will be, to learn of how significant this problem is and how it is being addressed so capably by Melissa and her staff. 

DJ Hilson, Muskegon County Prosecutor, and Michael Poulin, Muskegon County Sheriff, discuss the improved relationships with the community that law enforcement pursues in our county. The Sheriff has applied new ideas to create confidence in policing with positive interaction. One project centered on youth deploys an ice cream truck and officers giving "Drumsticks" away.