Lauren F. Carlson

Lauren F. Carlson's Latest Articles

What is a rail trail?: A peek into Michigan’s unique trail system

By Lauren F. Carlson

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General

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February 19, 2015

As a West Michigander, you may have donned running shoes for a quick jog down White Pine Trail, mounted your road or mountain bike for a weekend trip to Cadillac or even laced up rollerblades for a visit to West Michigan's smooth, lakeshore trails. With thousands of miles of trails throughout the Mitten state, an exploration of Michigan's unique "rail trails" reveals a rich history of advantageous pathways, state and local partnerships and the dedicated people working behind the scenes to make them possible.

Keeping it in the family: Local orchards thrive in West Michigan

By Lauren F. Carlson

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Small Business

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October 16, 2014

It's fall in West Michigan, and local orchards are packed. Find out who's growing that apple you're eating, and how they're innovating into the next generation. In a region where agriculture is big business, Lauren Carlson reports on how a few family-owned operations are weathering the seasons.

Home, heart, and history: How immigration is changing West Michigan

By Lauren F. Carlson

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General

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September 18, 2014

With immigration policy in the national spotlight, it's a good time to take a look at the way West Michigan's stance on the issue has shaped our region over the years. Lauren F. Carlson digs into the details of refugee resettlement and employment immigration by talking with a few very smart women who advocate for a very diverse population.

Food truck mania!

By Lauren F. Carlson

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General

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June 5, 2014

It's been two years since Grand Rapids passed an ordinance allowing food trucks to set up shop on private property, and it's the start of the first summer vending season since the GRAM opened up Wege Plaza for the trucks. Lauren Carlson checks in with the growing food truck scene downtown and gives you all the delicious details.

To Market: New Muskegon farmers’ market enhances downtown

By Lauren F. Carlson

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General

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May 1, 2014

The newly renovated and relocated Muskegon Farmers' Market is set to open this weekend, with potential to increase foot traffic and add vibrancy in an already-growing downtown. Grab your reusable shopping bags and get a peek inside the market before it's filled with fresh produce.

Dessert mafia takes over Grand Rapids

By Lauren F. Carlson

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General

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March 6, 2014

New purveyors of hand-crafted ice cream, doughnuts, and cupcakes are invading Grand Rapids, delighting residents with unique treats that are worth every calorie. Lauren F. Carlson gives us the scoop on the sweetly subversive shops.

WMCAT app design class proves mutually beneficial for students and city

By Lauren F. Carlson

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General

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February 6, 2014

Students on WMCAT's app design team are discovering their city while learning about design thinking in a unique partnership with Mutually Human and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. Lauren F. Carlson peeks into the process as the team takes the leap from concept to reality.

Coffee and culture: Artisan cafes pour over Grand Rapids

By Lauren F. Carlson

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General

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January 9, 2014

Whether you're looking for a basic espresso or a hand-crafted pour over, your hyper-local options are perking up. Thanks to a growing artisan coffee culture in Grand Rapids, it's getting easier to find a high-quality, locally roasted cup of joe in West Michigan.