Muskegon Rising

Kombucha is a 2000-year-old drink that is growing in popularity because of its potential health benefits. Made from tea, sugar, and yeast, it is a fermented beverage that often contains fruits, flowers, and/or spices to enhance the flavors and nutritional benefits. Muskegon is home to Lively Up Kombucha, one of the fastest-growing kombucha brewers in Michigan.

In this interview with Patsy Petty you’ll get a short glance into the history of Muskegon’s progression in local politics through her rare personal experiences over a span of 60 years. If you’ve ever had a question why getting involved in your local community was important you will certainly get your answer after listening to this wise woman’s unique experiences of racial, and sexual inequalities that have impacted her personal life which now fuel her resilient passion to continue to serve the youth and Muskegon community at large!

Muskegon County is growing rapidly and working with all its communities and governments is a challenging task. Mark Eisenbarth has been doing it well for 10 years. Mark is the Muskegon County Administrator. His leadership relies on personal relationships and trust. Learn how Muskegon County government is an example of positive change.

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.