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Evan Sumrell focuses on making beautiful, high-quality food with none of the pretentiousness. This salad is made with certified organic produce from Good Stead Farm.

Farm-to-table restaurant hits the streets of downtown Midland

“We wanted it to be a farm-to-table restaurant that is focused on food, sustainability, and community,” says Evan Sumrell, chef-owner of Aster. “That’s a huge thing for us.” Aster is now open for takeout.

Latest in General
After minimal renovations like paint, lighting and furniture, the duo plans to officially open shortly after the Thanksgiving holiday.
Cloud-based realty and coworking take shape in Midland’s Center City

After a switch to a cloud-based realty in late 2019, Bricks Real Estate has found they need a bit more space. The husband and wife duo are making over a midcentury modern gem in Center City to function as a place for new agents and other coworking potentials. 

Ice cream is a unique industry, Andrew says. It can thrive in challenging times. It's a little treat.
This Midland ice cream company wants you to have the perfect bite every time

Andrew and Halee Pirie stay busy at Great Lakes Ice Cream Co., serving up smiles and new holiday flavors.

Memento Leather Co. launched in February 2020.
Hand-stitched hobby turned genuine: The making of Memento Leather Co.

How Tyler Dietlein turned a growing hobby into a business of handcrafted leather goods with a little inspiration and a dose of good quality technique.  

The Creek Grill now has several "igloos" placed throughout their outdoor seating area. The round, enclosed plastic spaces provide seating for groups up to eight.
Destination dining: These two Midland restaurants on opposite sides of town are worth the trek

We sat down with the owners of Beer & Brats and The Creek Grill to talk food, the pandemic, the spring floods, and adaptation.

COVID conversions: Novel ways we used our outdoor and public spaces in Midland this year

2020 threw us some curveballs. Here are three instances where Midland adapted to the needs of 2020 by using our outdoor and public spaces.

Rise, roast and reuse: Couple kicks off a business trifecta in Midland

A husband and wife duo with a chemistry and art background kick off a new chapter with bread, beer and coffee, opening Mi Element Grains and Grounds this summer.

Q&A with Dr. Angela Phillips, ND on the benefits of naturopathic medicine

After a career change to pursue her passion, Angela (Ange) Phillips left her job in the chemical industry to pursue her doctoral degree in naturopathic medicine. We caught up with her on what are the benefits of working with a naturopathic doctor and some of her most impactful work.

Winona Bynum at Old City Acres farm in Belleville.
Michigan’s local food economy rises to meet COVID-19’s challenges

Small Michigan farms have already adapted rapidly to address some of the challenges the pandemic has presented, and local food advocates see many opportunities ahead to continue strengthening local food systems.

Three entrepreneurs on pivoting in the time of quarantine

Three local entrepreneurs share the different ways they have been able to adjust for COVID-19 and plan for the future.

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