In his 16th #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits Nick Manes’ 2011 story on Tip Top, depicting the West Side bar as gritty, inviting and central to community life.
In his 15th #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits Nikos Monoyios's 2008 article, “Why Civic Centers Matter,” which frames green spaces as essential to a thriving civic environment.
In his 14th #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits his 2013 story on Herm Baker, whose journey from Vinyl Solution to Vertigo Music reflects resilient innovation shaping Grand Rapids’ music culture.
Curtis Chin’s memoir about growing up inside his family’s restaurant becomes something larger than nostalgia, offering a timely reminder that everyday places can help communities practice belonging across differences.
An after-hours trivia experience created in partnership with Betka-Pope Productions suggests another way a public museum can build belonging: by making room for play, conversation, and the awesome power of laughter.
In his 13th #RG20LookBack column, Rapid Growth publisher Tommy Allen reflects on the 2022 story by Enrique Olmos, which serves as a reminder that the region’s music economy is about more than entertainment.
In his 12th #RG20LookBack column, Rapid Growth publisher Tommy Allen revisits the 2008 story, “A River Runs Through Green Grand Rapids,” which now reads like an early spark for everything unfolding along the Grand River today.
GVSU’s Kutsche Office of Local History honors Gina Bivins with the Gordon Olson Award for a career that highlights how public history resonates more when diverse individuals see themselves reflected in it.
As youth mental health needs strain Michigan families, Pine Rest opens its new Pediatric Center of Behavioral Health. The center offers expanded inpatient treatment, the state’s first pediatric psychiatric urgent care center, and new services for children and adolescents.
In his eleventh #RG20LookBack column, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits his 2014 story, “The Vegan Kitchen Takeover: Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill,” reflecting on how local restaurants can be spaces for connection and community.
Our Partners
We want to know what's on your mind.
