Stories

Development News DNost1

Open Systems Technologies aims to redefine digital with launch of new brand

"The word digital is being redefined," says Michael Lomanaco of Open Systems Technologies, who recently launched Open Digital, an evolution of VisualHero, to form a new digital consultancy.

Innovation News work

Where to work it in a West Michigan Winter


Feature Story colletto

RapidChat: Heather Colletto

Over the years we've been conditioned to only share the highlight reels of our life on social media; We don’t show each other the framework behind the success. "But each of those stories is a series of months—even years—of self doubt, anger, and so on." reflects Heather Colletto, Founder of ServeGR, who recently shared her very own story of Context with CreativeMornings GR.

Feature Story Berkey and Gay Factory

Building Grand Rapids: Part I, from Furniture City to urban renewal

From establishing itself as the Furniture City to urban renewal to renovations of historic buildings, GR has witnessed much transformation in its buildings. Read the first in a two-part piece on the last 100 years of construction in GR.

Feature Story FTtriangle

One of GR's oldest construction companies celebrates 100 years

“The joys of construction are the tangible products you realize from your efforts." Craig Datema celebrates his father, his grandfather, and his great-grandfather, remembering the past 100 years of Triangle Associates.

Feature Story DonRhoades

Making it in GR: Lessons in crowdfunding

Self-proclaimed entrepreneur and Grand Rapids transplant, Don Rhoads, invented the BedBud Alarm out of a personal need. Through community involvement, market research and continuous revisions, he was able to develop his product. Though his journey is not over yet, he has already learned a lot along the way.

Feature Story MNLShayla

Helping to write beautiful stories: Leaders under 30 empower youth in Grand Rapids

Impassioned to guide first generation students toward a college degree; to provide quality mental health care to all people, regardless of their background; and to create intimate relationships free of violence, these leaders under 30 are making a difference for youth in GR.

Feature Story DACA

DACA: A personal view from here to Washington

Rapid Growth's Publisher Tommy Allen sat down to speak with two Dreamers whose lives will be upended along with the estimated 800,000 other Dreamers if DACA is not renewed. 

Construction on new Michigan Mile 44-unit Midtown CityZen


culturedGR: Closing the gap in arts coverage


Feature Story UIX

UIX: Preventative medicine begins with access to exercise in Grand Rapids

Access to adequate nutrition, shelter and education are basic rights of those living in West Michigan, and access to physical fitness is no different. More so now than ever before, individuals of differing ability and resources are able to access opportunities for physical fitness.

Feature Story Reviews

Single Girls Guide promotes safety and respect for women while dining

Are you a single lady? Or just a woman who wants to visit an establishment alone, knowing she is safe and in good company? Enter Single Girls Guide, the site we've all been waiting for.

Development News Boop

Boop de Boom brings back bohemian funk with new Plainfield coffee shop

Creston Brewery owners open new, funky coffee shop Boop de Boom in the neighborhood they've grown to love.

Innovation News Angela Nelson

Working in the City: Angela Nelson

RG chats with Experience GR and 616 Grand Production’s Angela Nelson about how she spends her days, what she is working on, and get serious with career talk.

Feature Story Molly Singleterry

RapidChat: Molly Singleterry

"I am a writer—not a speaker," admits Molly Singleterry, host and organizer of CreativeMornings GR. But modesty must be one of this woman's strong suit—because it is clear that Molly is nothing short of wonderful at capturing everyone's attention within the (very crowded) room of this monthly speaker series.

Feature Story RG staff

Looking forward in 2018: Rapid Growth staff spells out their new year's hopes and dreams

For our first edition of 2018, the Rapid Growth staff divulges their hopes, their trepidations, and their goals for the new year. Here's what Rapid Growth is looking forward to in 2018.

Feature Story OTG Muskegon Love Muskegon sign

VIDEO: Celebrating the strength and spirit of a rising Muskegon

To mark the end of our On The Ground Muskegon Lakeshore series, we present this video as a celebration of the spirit of Muskegon, of the amazing people and incredible work we’ve seen throughout the area.

Feature Story FTadoption138

Inside transracial adoption: Stories of adversity, acceptance, and intentional love

Transracial and international adoption can be as daunting as they are inspiring, and transracial and transcultural families face a unique set of challenges even after the children settle in at home. Michigan Nightlight explores three of these family's stories.

Feature Story alger heights

Neighborhoods of GR: Alger Heights, a community of little intentional actions

Alger Heights is the only area of Grand Rapids that experienced growth during the Great Depression and WWII. Take a closer look at this vibrant, tight-knit community.

Local First announces inaugural 2018 Good for Grand Rapids awards