Author

Crystal Gwizdala

Crystal Gwizdala is a freelance writer with a focus on health and science. As a lifelong resident of the Tri-Cities, she loves sharing how our communities are overcoming challenges. Crystal is also a serial hobbyist — her interests range from hiking or drawing to figuring out how to do a handstand. Her work can be seen in Wide Open Eats, The Xylom, Woman & Home, and The Detroit Free Press. To see what Crystal’s up to, you can follow her on Twitter @CrystalGwizdala.

Crystal Gwizdala's Latest Articles

Costco opened on Nov. 12, 2020 at 4816 Bay City Road in Midland.
The Bay City Road Corridor: Looking back and thinking ahead

Bay City Road has evolved over the decades on Midland’s east side. With the retail giant Costco moving in one year ago, we examine how this corridor may spur additional development and continue to change over the next decade. The Midland Business Alliance also speaks to how they attract and support business growth.

Starting Nov. 20,  people are welcome to drive by Porte Park in Sanford to see the lights.
‘Sanford Shines’ bright for another Christmas season

Sanford Shines returns for its second year. Starting Nov. 20, lit Christmas trees and exhibits will line Porte Park. On Dec. 3, games, food, live music, and a nighttime parade with lights will take over downtown Sanford.

On Saturday, Anti-Racist Midland (ARM) launched the most comprehensive collection of Black Midland’s history.
Anti-Racist Midland launches most comprehensive collection of Black Midland’s history

Voices of Black Midland can now be heard online. The digital exhibit features 23 hours of compiled interviews, and they’re still open to more. This community collaborative was spearheaded by Anti-Racist Midland.

H.H. Dow's band plays on Oct. 8. (Crystal Gwizdala)
What does teen spirit sound like?

High school bands are the heart of school pride. Midland High and H.H. Dow High both have robust music programs, and the band is no exception. While band is a challenging subject, it’s arguably one of the most rewarding.

The Action in Motion (AIM) for Recovery & Wellness is full service, meaning they provide individual counseling, drug screenings, medication treatment, case management, recovery coaching, and addiction physicians.
AIM for Recovery & Wellness bus brings life-saving services to the GLBR’s rural communities

The Action in Motion (AIM) for Recovery & Wellness mobile health unit, a substance use treatment bus, has been making its rounds around the region. Earlier this year, it expanded into Midland County.

In 1987, Madonna appeared on "The Today Show," where she referred to Bay City as a "little smelly town." (Photo courtesy of Zach Neumeyer)
Q&A with Zach Neumeyer, filmmaker of “Smelly Little Town”

Zach Neumeyer, filmmaker of “Smelly Little Town,” gives Route a behind-the-scenes peek at the process and inspiration behind the film chronicling Bay City’s relationship with its most famous native, Madonna.

It's pumpkin season.
“Fall” in love with Midland County: A guide to living this fall to the fullest

Yes, we have a pumpkin patch and orchards, and they’re wonderful! But we have so much more. See our roundup of fall activities and events. You name it, we’ve got it: nature walks, trick-or-treating, treasure hunts; painting, poetry, shopping, and more.

Films may take center stage during the Hell's Half Mile Film and Music Festival, but live bands are an important part of the annual event.
Meet the Hellions who go the extra half mile to bring an iconic film and music festival to Bay City

For 15 years, the Hell’s Half Mile Film and Music Festival has run exclusively on volunteers. Route talks to a father-daughter duo who have been with the festival since its fourth year and the volunteer manager behind it all.

By 2030, global water requirements are projected to be 40% greater than the current supply.
Midland startup to commercialize industrial water filtration technology

Accelerated Filtration, an industrial water filtration startup, will be making its home in Midland. They’re working to commercialize their AFX filter, which removes fine particles from water without chemicals.

Habitat for Humanity provides affordable mortgages, financial education, and home repairs — like the roof on this home.
Charity begins at home: Assistance for renters and homeowners is available

In the final part of our housing series, we learn how two organizations, Home To Stay and Habitat for Humanity, are addressing the issue of affordable housing.

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