In honor of Rapid Growth’s 20th anniversary, Publisher Tommy Allen revisits stories from the archives, offering a fresh perspective through behind-the-scenes insights, analysis, and updates on how those topics have evolved.
In his 23rd #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits his 2014 story, "Let's Break Some Laws & Eggs Together," a cheeky look at two ordinances that no longer fit the Grand Rapids many envisioned.
In his 22nd #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits his 2025 story, "Beyond Compliance: Area nonprofit and corporation are redefining inclusive workplaces," showing how companies like Steelcase value the insights of people who navigate barriers every day.
In his 21st #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits Deborah Johnson Wood's 2009 story about efforts to restore rapids to the Grand River — a timely reflection following last week's groundbreaking of the Grand River Restoration's Lower Reach project.
In his 20th #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits the 2018 story, “The Rapid 25 years on: Looking back on the transit’s evolution as instrumental CEO retires,” by Paul R. Kopenkoskey, examining key periods in our local transit history and highlighting Peter Varga’s 25-year leadership.
In his 19th #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits the 2013 piece “RapidBlog: Reflections on the DAAC” by Emma Heemskerk, reflecting on one of Grand Rapids’ small but vital cultural spaces where culture was created through participation, not just consumption.
In his 18th #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits Ashley King’s 2023 story, reminding readers that starting a business here has never been only about individual drive. It also requires education, access, mentorship and the relationships that help turn ideas into sustainable ventures.
In his 17th #RG20LookBack, Rapid Growth Publisher Tommy Allen revisits Juliet Bennett Rylah’s 2010 story on the rise of community investment funding in the urban core.
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.
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