Spring is trying to show up, and Big Rapids is right there with it.

This week on What’s Up Big Rapids, we celebrate some big wins — Taste of Mecosta was a hit, March Madness is heating up (with Chris somehow in the lead), and most importantly… the Big Rapids Movie Theater is officially reopening next week 🎬

We’re also joined by returning guest Mayor Dr. Fred Guenther, who brings a full slate of updates on what’s happening around town — from new businesses and infrastructure improvements to long-term possibilities like housing, grocery options, and even a sports complex.

There’s a lot happening right now in Big Rapids, and this episode is packed with updates, ideas, and a look at where things might be headed.

0:00 – Intro & welcome
1:20 – Theater reopens next week! 🎬
2:00 – Taste of Mecosta recap 🍽️
4:35 – March Madness update (Chris leads, Dom trails 😄)
7:30 – Spring Break countdown — where is everyone going?
8:00 – Thanks to last week’s guest, Jordan Stancil
9:12 – Featured Creature: Watermelon Pleco 🐟
11:10 – Guest intro: Mayor Dr. Fred Guenther
14:30 – What’s new around town?
15:30 – Possible senior living development at Hanchett property
17:30 – Five Below & Burlington Coat Factory updates 🛍️
20:00 – National Championship Parade (April 25, noon) 🎉
22:20 – Mayor’s second term reflections
25:35 – Could Big Rapids get a sports complex?
28:52 – Chipotle update 🌯
30:30 – Upscale men’s barber shop coming 💈
31:30 – Potential low-cost grocery store
33:45 – East side streetlights & infrastructure improvements
38:30 – Birdwatching talk takes over 🐦
40:15 – Spring Craft Fair + Banded Raccoon vendor market
42:05 – Chamber After Hours success
43:00 – Chamber Kickoff Breakfast (April 9)
44:58 – The Big Event returns
46:40 – St. Mary/St. Paul Gala (April 18)
49:00 – Karaoke for a Cause 🎤
52:56 – Summerfest (June 6) ☀️
55:09 – Dom’s Corrections: signs of spring, MLB Opening Day & internet chaos
1:01:14 – Outro & goodbyes

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