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 37th #RG20LookBack column, Publisher Tommy Allen reflects on the questions that shaped Rapid Growth’s earliest reporting, 20 years after it began documenting Grand Rapids’ transformation.
In his 36th #RG20LookBack column, Publisher Tommy Allen reflects on what West Michigan’s neighbors have taught us about belonging. The votes are in, but the work of welcoming is never finished.
In his 35th #RG20LookBack column, Publisher Tommy Allen revisits a question that still resonates: How welcoming is Grand Rapids to newcomers? Five transplants shared their experiences at our October 2013 Speaker Series.
In his 34th #RG20LookBack column marking Rapid Growth’s 20th anniversary, publisher Tommy Allen revisits 2011, when a Detroit design movement inspired Rapid Growth to explore and highlight design’s ability to transform West Michigan.
In his 33rd #RG20LookBack column marking Rapid Growth’s 20th anniversary, publisher Tommy Allen connects lessons from Standing Rock with a reopened Grand Rapids exhibition, reminding readers that Indigenous history remains in the present tense.
At a time when hope can feel in short supply, #RG20LookBack returns to the story of Zoey Tice, a Muskegon sixth grader whose simple decision to pick up litter reminds us how one small act can inspire others to begin.
In his 31st #RG20LookBack column marking Rapid Growth’s 20th anniversary, Publisher Tommy Allen revisits Grand Rapids’ relationship with public art, from Calder and Maya Lin to ArtPrize, and considers what the city might make room for next.
In his 30th #RG20LookBack column celebrating Rapid Growth’s 20th anniversary, Publisher Tommy Allen revisits his 2012 story about the worker-owned restaurant, Burritotown.
In his 29th #RG20LookBack column celebrating Rapid Growth’s 20th anniversary, Publisher Tommy Allen celebrates the work of student journalists in the Voice of Youth series.
In his 28th #RG20LookBack column celebrating Rapid Growth’s 20th anniversary, Publisher Tommy Allen revisits a 2006 story about former Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss and her start on the City Commission as its youngest woman ever elected.
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