Stories

Feature Story  Zena Patillo

Embracing diversity of thought, culture, and experience: One business owner's perspective

Detroit-native and small business owner Zena Patillo shares her story of overcoming obstacles, building social capital, and pushing for continued growth. She shares insights on the changes she’s seen over the past 30 years, as well as opportunities for further advancement when it comes to intentional inclusion within the community.

Feature Story  Zena Patillo

Abrazando la diversidad de pensamiento, la cultura, y las experiencias: Una perspectiva

Zena Patillo, dueña de una pequeña empresa y nativa de Detroit, comparte su historia de cómo ha podido superar obstáculos, construir capital social e impulsar el crecimiento continuo de su negocio. Ella nos comparte información sobre los cambios que ha visto en los últimos 30 años, así como las oportunidades que existen para un mayor avance cuando se trata con real intención la inclusión dentro de la comunidad.

Development News TaterTats

Temporary tattoos making long-lasting investments in the sustainable foods movement

Jenna Weiler's entrepreneurial business, Tater Tats, has given 48 good food grants —more than $20,000 — to farms and innovative projects all over the country. This year, the local temporary vegetable tattoo producer gave 15 good food grants, a total of $8,500, to farms and food projects in Michigan and across the country.


Innovation News LittleSpace

Little Space Studio changing their approach to creative co-working


Feature Story Ray Kisor

Rapid Blog: Ray Kisor on the past, present, and future of real estate in Grand Rapids

How did Grand Rapids reach this stage of rapid construction and real estate development? Ray Kisor, Principal Partner with PURE Real Estate Brokerage, discusses the recent history of GR real estate in this Rapid Blog.

Feature Story OKT08.jpg

Across Michigan, neighbors build nutrition literacy and food security

A battery of initiatives across Michigan are working to reverse food insecurity. We share stories of how neighbors in Grand Rapids, Detroit, and across the state are learning about the sustainable value of healthy, locally grown foods.

Feature Story Annie Paul

Rapid Chat: Annie Paul on bakeries, competition, and better baked goods

From bakeries specializing in distinct diets, to shops mastering the art of the perfect croissant; there seems to be a rising trend of sweets and savory specialty bakeries within Grand Rapids, MI. It's a niche market that takes not only passion — but patience — which can be learned through the lens of pastry chef Annie Paul.

Feature Story Composting saves on food waste and creates value in quality soil.

UIX: The regional business forum driving sustainability on a national scale

About 132,000 tons of food waste winds up in West Michigan landfills every year. The number is even higher for plastics and inorganic waste. Members of the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum are working together to drive that number down to zero.

Feature Story FT Tania Willoughby

Local Rosa Parks Essay Winner explores stopping bullying and championing others

The City of Grand Rapids Community Relations Commission’s Rosa Parks Education Committee encourages students in grades 7 to 12 to write an essay about how to live out Mrs. Parks’ legacy by stepping outside of the bounds of their reality, taking risks, and shaping lives to make a difference.

Feature Story Koss_IMG_20190211_Winona_Bynum_Supplemental-8.jpg

Food policy councils drive change in Michigan communities

From establishing equitable policies to planning farmers market events, the food policy council is a support system for the local food economy. Detroit and Washtenaw councils work locally and collaborate to address statewide issues, too.

Feature Story FT Amanda Seales

Laughter is the best medicine: LaughFest offers wide array of performances, venues in 9th year

Designed by a nonprofit that provides cancer and grief support programs for adults and children, LaughFest, containing over 100 events each year and attracting talent from across the country, has been a mainstay in comedy and comical performances for almost a decade.

Feature Story Sacred Springs Kombucha.

When it comes to self-care in Grand Rapids, you finally have plenty of options

In a city centered around food, beverage, art, and entertainment, there are more and more businesses emerging that are encouraging GR residents to slow down.

Development News DNriversidelaunch.jpg

New watercraft launch at Riverside Park confirms City's commitment to equity and access

In summer 2020, paddling Riverside Park’s lagoon will be an all-abilities activity thanks to a new accessible kayak-canoe launch.

Innovation News Brian Anderson

LOFT fulfills niche for tech software aftercare


Feature Story Koss_IMG_FarmtoFreezer_Portraits_20180117-22.jpg

Year-round produce cultivates employment, food access, and economy in Michigan

Innovative methods in growing and preserving Michigan food boost the local food economy — and not just during traditional growing seasons. See how Michigan businesses capitalize on farm-quality produce year-round.

Feature Story Michigan Health Council's Mini Medical School.

Health literacy initiatives help Michiganders and their doctors speak each other's language

Although almost everyone has experienced not understanding their doctor, health literacy issues may be especially pronounced for refugees, youth, and disadvantaged communities.

Feature Story RB Cindy Brown

Rapid Blog: Cindy Brown on how talent attraction is more than billboards

In this Rapid Blog, Cindy Brown, Vice President of Talent Initiatives at The Right Place, explores the complexity of talent attraction in West Michigan.

Feature Story LaKesha Clay

Local Rosa Parks Essay Contest winner explores bullying and police brutality

The City of Grand Rapids Community Relations Commission’s Rosa Parks Education Committee encourages students in grades 7 to 12 to write an essay about how to live out Mrs. Parks’ legacy by stepping outside of the bounds of their reality, taking risks, and shaping lives to make a difference.

Feature Story Baxter

Neighborhoods of GR: Baxter Community Center celebrates 50 years

Baxter’s roots run deep, evidenced by the Baxter Community Center, a 50-year-old nonprofit that is more committed than ever to serving, living, and growing with its neighbors.

Feature Story KevCouture

G-Sync: Kev Couture adventures in style

This month we continue G-Sync's series devoted to having insightful conversations with community members, like Kev Couture, who are making an impact upon our culture through their contributions.