Muskegon Rising

Muskegon Rotary Club
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Society & Culture
  • Weekly

We discover and share positive change in Greater Muskegon. A public service of the Muskegon Rotary Club.

  1. Oct 22

    Veronica Campbell - USS Silversides Museum

    When the USS Silversides left Muskegon for major preservation work, no one expected the refit to uncover a remarkable connection to another World War II submarine. During the war, the Silversides and USS Trigger were once docked side by side for repairs. When the Silversides needed a flood valve to get back into action, one was taken from the Trigger and installed aboard her. The Trigger was later lost in the war. More than 80 years later, that borrowed piece of equipment remains part of the Silversides—and its story is being rediscovered as the submarine undergoes extensive preservation work. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike talks with USS Silversides Museum Executive Director Veronica Campbell about what crews are finding during the submarine's refit, why decades in the fresh water of Lake Michigan helped preserve this national treasure, and what visitors can expect when she returns to Muskegon. But this story is about more than preserving a submarine. The museum is looking toward the future—expanding educational opportunities, connecting young people with engineering, advanced manufacturing and skilled trades, developing more immersive exhibits, and finding new ways for Muskegon families to experience history firsthand. The Silversides represents an extraordinary piece of American history. Its next chapter may be just as important: using that history to educate, inspire and connect another generation. Discover why preserving the Silversides matters to Muskegon—and why some of its most fascinating stories are still being uncovered.

  2. Oct 15

    Kirk Hallman - Muskegon Arts and Culture Coalition

    Muskegon has something communities many times its size would envy: an extraordinary concentration of arts and cultural institutions—and their impact reaches far beyond the stage, gallery or museum. Muskegon Rising host Aaron Maike talks with Kirk Hallman about how the Muskegon Arts and Culture Coalition is helping turn these remarkable assets into an economic engine—attracting talent, strengthening businesses, welcoming visitors and creating a community where everyone can belong. Discover why investing in arts and culture is really an investment in Muskegon’s future.

  3. Oct 8

    Bernard Brown - Muskegon ISD Career and Technical Center

    For parents wondering what opportunities will be waiting for their children after high school, some of the most encouraging answers are being built right here in Muskegon County. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, Bernard Brown, Director of the Muskegon ISD Career and Technical Center, explains how career education is expanding to give students meaningful exposure to growing fields—including HVAC, community health, aviation and advanced manufacturing. These programs are being developed in direct conversation with local employers, helping students connect what they learn in school with genuine career opportunities in the community. The larger message for parents is especially important: there is more than one pathway to a successful future. Muskegon County students can explore careers, develop practical skills and make better-informed decisions about what comes after graduation—whether that means employment, certification, community college or further education. This conversation offers parents a valuable look at resources they may not realize are available to their children—and at a community working deliberately to make education more relevant to the opportunities of tomorrow.

  4. Sep 24

    James Perry - Denver Air Connection

    Discover how reliable air service is helping fuel Muskegon's economic future. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike sits down with James Perry, Regional Manager for Denver Air Connection, to discuss the remarkable transformation of Muskegon County Airport. From record passenger growth and dependable service to the addition of a regional aircraft maintenance hub creating skilled local jobs, James explains how the airport is becoming a vital asset for business, workforce development, and community growth. Learn why more travelers are choosing to fly from Muskegon, how local aviation partnerships are creating career pathways for students, and why a thriving airport is essential to attracting new investment throughout West Michigan.

  5. Sep 10

    Melissa Horton - Lakeshore Museum Center

    Discover why the Lakeshore Museum Center is one of Muskegon County's greatest educational resources. In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host DJ Hilson talks with Executive Director Melissa Horton about the museums that preserve and celebrate our community's remarkable history. Learn about free educational programs for local students, interactive exhibits for families, the famous Hackley and Hume Historic Site, the Heritage Museum of Business & Industry, the Muskegon Museum of History & Science, and the stories behind the industries, innovators, and philanthropists who helped shape Muskegon. Whether you're a lifelong resident, a newcomer, educator, parent, or history enthusiast, this conversation highlights why preserving local history inspires future generations and strengthens our community.

  6. Aug 27

    Jerry Farley - Oakmont Education

    Muskegon Rising host DJ Hilson talks with Jerry Farley of Oakmont Education about a new chapter for Muskegon Covenant Academy—one built around meeting students where they are and connecting education directly to meaningful careers. Farley explains how career-tech training, work-based learning, strong business partnerships, and continued support after graduation can give youth the skills, confidence, and pathway to lasting economic mobility while strengthening Muskegon’s future workforce.

  7. Aug 13

    Emily Morgenstern - Silent Observer

    In this episode of Muskegon Rising, host DJ Hilson sits down with Emily Morgenstern to explore how Silent Observer is strengthening public safety and supporting economic development across Muskegon County. Learn how this anonymous crime tip program empowers residents to share critical information without fear, helps law enforcement solve serious crimes, and builds a safer, more attractive environment for businesses and investors. From real-world success stories to how you can submit tips or support the program, this conversation highlights why community-driven safety initiatives are essential to Muskegon’s continued growth.

  8. Jul 30

    Scott Wilbur - MOTIV Bowling

    On this episode of Muskegon Rising, host Aaron Maike sits down with Scott Wilbur of MOTIV Bowling to explore the company’s major expansion in Roosevelt Park, its advanced manufacturing edge, and why a global competitor chooses to stay rooted in Muskegon County. From precision engineering and patented processes to workforce development partnerships with local colleges, Scott shares how innovation, integrity, and community collaboration are fueling rapid growth. This is a story about manufacturing excellence, local leadership, and building world-class products right here in West Michigan.

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

We discover and share positive change in Greater Muskegon. A public service of the Muskegon Rotary Club.

Information

  • Creator
    Muskegon Rotary Club
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    124
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Muskegon Rising
  • Show Website
    Muskegon Rising

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