Flight Path: Cherryland, Consumers use drones in hard-to-access areas

The use of drones by northern Michigan public utilities is taking off.

“We have two now and would like to add one or two more over the next year,” said Frank Siepker, engineering and operations manager at Cherryland Electric Cooperative. “They're especially useful in the difficult-to-access areas.”

And the co-op, …

#MeToo: A new perspective on harassment investigations

In the wake of the #MeToo movement, there has been a surge in the number of sexual harassment charges filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

In October 2019, the EEOC reported its fiscal year 2018 statistics showing that sexual harassment charge filings increased by 13.6% over the previous …

Meet the President: New Munson Medical Center leader on what drew him to the job and what he brings to the table

Matt Wille was named the new president and CEO of Munson Medical Center in September, replacing the role held by Al Pilong, who left for a position at a Virginia health system. It's a big job by any measure – but one Wille says he’s qualified and prepared to handle. …

Oil Change: Paul Schmuckal reflects on recent sale of his family's 64-year-old company

When Schmuckal Oil Company was sold in August to Ohio-based True North Energy LLC, it marked the end of a well-known Traverse City business that Art Schmuckal and George Slane started 64 years ago with little more than a contract to sell home heating oil.

“They had no customers, just …

Let’s Put Tourism Dollars to Work for the Long Term

Tourism is here to stay, and the yearly number of visitors to our area continues to climb. It’s no wonder. Those of us who live here year round know the value of what tourists come for: thriving towns, culture and recreation, beautiful land and fresh water. But with greater numbers …

Crisis Intervention: Grants fund new opioid treatment options at Munson Healthcare

Thanks to a series of grants received by Munson Healthcare over the past year, northern Michigan will soon have a new set of options available for individuals struggling with opioid abuse and addiction.

The first grant comes from the Michigan Opioid Partnership, a new public-private collaborative whose members include …

Defending Our Unique Business Environment: Legislative advocacy is key to future growth

Leadership takes many forms. When strife and lack of cooperation are present at the local, state and national government levels, public policy leadership is crucial.

The Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce has served as the voice and public sector advocate for the business community and institutional employers for more …