The Rapidian

Grand Rapids' first outdoor 'gear library' opening this weekend. City of Grand Rapids seeking public input in search for new police chief. ArtPrize 2021 winners revealed. https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Programs-and-Initiatives/Thrive-Outside https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Home https://www.artprize.org/

City of Grand Rapids creates Affordable Housing Fund. MDHHS launches online portal for immunization records. Susan Mast ALS Foundation hosting "PedALS" bike ride, walk to support local ALS families.

This month's special guest is Milinda Ysasi from the 2nd Ward to talk about local matters, live on City Connection.

GRCC, Grand Valley receive $1.2M grants to help local adults earn college degrees. Grand Rapids Public Museum announces "Polish Halls in Grand Rapids" program. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/trio/index.html https://www.grpm.org/

Rishi Singh, Sikh practitioner and interfaith outreach officer for the Sikh Society of West Michigan, previously asked Grand Rapids faith communities: "What is the purpose of your life? How can you live a spiritual life – how can you attain that which you're sent here for – if you can't answer that fundamental question, which is 'what is the purpose of your life?'" --- Fred Stella, Hindu practitioner and Pracharak (outreach minister) for the West Michigan Hindu Temple, responds, and passes a question on to the city's Christian community: "I would like to ask someone from the Christian community about how they are able to balance the religious dictate that was given to them in the Bible – to spread the message of the gospel to all peoples and to try to recruit people to the gospel – … with their interfaith activity?" --- Passing the Mic is a project of Grand Rapids Community Media Center (CMC) that promotes online, community-wide discussion of local issues and topics using the spoken word. Residents are invited to share one to three-minute audio responses to locally-focused questions from fellow neighbors, with questions geared toward all Grand Rapidians or specific communities within the city. Keeping the discussion going, speakers are encouraged to end their responses with their own question related to a local issue or topic -- passing along the opportunity to amplify community voices. Opinions expressed through Passing the Mic are those of the speakers and do not reflect the editorial voice of The Rapidian or CMC. Posted responses are subject to The Rapidian's Terms of Use, which include adherence to inclusiveness, civility, ethical reporting, proper credit, local emphasis, and open identity (no anonymous posting).

Blandford Nature Center celebrating late founder with four-day exhibit. Grand Rapids Public Library returning to regular hours. ArtPrize adding locations beyond downtown for 2021 event. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://blandfordnaturecenter.org/experiences https://www.grpl.org/regular-hours-return https://www.artprize.org/blog

The Rapid begins bus service changes on Aug. 30. Ken-O-Sha Park reopens with improvements. Festival of the Arts cancels Sept. event over pandemic concerns. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.ridetherapid.org/ https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Programs-and-Initiatives/Grand-Rapids-Parks-Projects https://festivalgr.org/news

Kent District Library launching streaming platform for local musicians. Grand Rapids Public Schools requiring face coverings for all students, staff. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://vibes.kdl.org/curators https://vibes.kdl.org/faq https://www.kentisd.org/

Fiesta Mexicana returning to downtown Grand Rapids next month. City of Grand Rapids earns national award for residential recycling programs. CDC classifies Kent County as "substantial" COVID-19 risk. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.facebook.com/mexicanheritageassociation https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Programs-and-Initiatives/Single-Stream-Recycling-Program https://www.accesskent.com/Health/covid-19-data.htm

Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Payne to retire next year. Grand Rapids Public Schools, Kent ISD recommending face coverings for fall start of school. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Police-Department/Grand-Rapids-Police-Department-Draft-Strategic-Plan-Fiscal-Year-2021-2023

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss and Stephanie Adams (Executive Director for Friends of Grand Rapids Parks) in conversation on this month's episode of City Connection. A production of GRTV, The Rapidian, & the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. Topics discussed included: status of COVID-19 in the city, Bliss' thoughts on how to effectively encourage others to get vaccinated, Urban League's new involvement in helping with police/community safety, outdoor summer events, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, goals of accessible parks for all, park activation, expanding tree canopy to 40%, Green Team, Participatory Budgeting, & more. https://www.friendsofgrparks.org/ http://www.therapidian.org/ http://www.grcmc.org/

Ven. Yong Su Mark Hepper, Mahayana Buddhist practitioner and Teaching Monk at the Grand Rapids Buddhist Temple, previously asked Grand Rapids faith communities: "What does your faith, your religion, do to specifically address your members' suffering?" --- Rishi Singh, Sikh practitioner and interfaith outreach officer for the Sikh Society of West Michigan, responds, and passes a question on to other faith communities in the city: "What is the purpose of your life? How can you live a spiritual life -- how can you attain that which you're sent here for -- if you can't answer that fundamental question, which is 'what is the purpose of your life?'" --- Passing the Mic is a project of Grand Rapids Community Media Center (CMC) that promotes online, community-wide discussion of local issues and topics using the spoken word. Residents are invited to share one to three-minute audio responses to locally-focused questions from fellow neighbors, with questions geared toward all Grand Rapidians or specific communities within the city. Keeping the discussion going, speakers are encouraged to end their responses with their own question related to a local issue or topic -- passing along the opportunity to amplify community voices. Opinions expressed through Passing the Mic are those of the speakers and do not reflect the editorial voice of The Rapidian or CMC. Posted responses are subject to The Rapidian's Terms of Use, which include adherence to inclusiveness, civility, ethical reporting, proper credit, local emphasis, and open identity (no anonymous posting).

Gangnam District in South Korea becomes Grand Rapids' new sister city. Storytime Grand Rapids adds more Storytime in the Park dates. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://grsistercities.org/about https://www.storytimegr.org/about

City of Grand Rapids replacing private lead service lines in Neighborhoods of Focus. The DAAC bringing back public art, music shows. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Water-System/Private-Lead-Service-Line-Replacements http://thedaac.org/

Grand Rapids Urban League selected to lead Cure Violence in Grand Rapids. UICA reopens in new downtown location. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Programs-and-Initiatives/Cure-Violence https://www.uica.org/

First Ward Commissioner Jon O'Connor joins us for this month's City Connection. A production of GRTV, The Rapidian, & the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. To submit a question for future discussions, email us at: cityconnection@grcmc.org http://www.therapidian.org/ http://www.grcmc.org/ http://www.grtv.org/ Jon O'Connor, 1st Ward Commissioner https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Elected-Officials/Commissioner-Jon-OConnor

City of Grand Rapids resuming in-person government meetings next week. Kent County Health Department, community partners launch mobile vaccine unit in southeast Grand Rapids. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Meetings https://vaccinatewestmi.com/clinics

Heritage Hill hosting Garden Tour, Pleasant Park Marketplace on June 19. Fulton Street Artisans Market opening day this Sunday. Grand Rapids Public Library kicks off adult summer reading program. GRCMC open to the public. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-june-10 https://www.heritagehillweb.org/ticket_thanks_garden-htm https://www.facebook.com/FultonStreetARTisansMarket https://www.grpl.org/grreads

Kristin Turkelson from the City Planning Department joins Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss & host Linda Gellasch in the GRTV studio. Bliss and Turkelson will discuss the City of Grand Rapids master plan, which is to be updated over the next few years. City Connection for June 2021. To learn more about the GR City Planning Department, visit: https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Planning City Connection is a production of GRTV & The Rapidian; proud services of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. To learn more about citizen journalism, video/TV production, media literacy, & more you can visit us at: http://www.therapidian.org/ http://www.grcmc.org/ http://www.grtv.org/ http://www.grcity.us/ For over 25 years, the monthly live Q&A show featuring the mayor & other city officials of Grand Rapids. City Connection is an opportunity to interact directly with one of our city's top elected officials. Powered by GRTV, The Rapidian, & the Community Media Center. Broadcasting on GRTV's Livewire, Comcast channel 24, streaming online, & now distributed digitally via podcast. Mayor John Logie started the program in 1992 as a way to share mayoral perspective with Grand Rapidians and to bring a little more transparency to local government. Talk to us & submit your questions & comments for discussion via email at: cityconnection@grcmc.org

City of Grand Rapids expands micromobility pilot with electric assist bikes. Kent County expands Chief Hazy Cloud Park to nearly 400-acre natural preserve. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-friday-june-4 https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Programs-and-Initiatives/Shared-Mobility https://www.kentcountyparks.org/chiefhazycloud

Grand Rapids leaders approve 2022 budget. Gov. Whitmer announces lifted outdoor capacity limits in June, no indoor limits in July. Uptown Grand Rapids continues beautification projects for east side business districts. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-may-20 https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Budget-Office/Library/Upcoming?BestBetMatch=city%20budget%7Cd13b95b2-5146-4b00-9e3e-a80c73739a64%7C4f05f368-ecaa-4a93-b749-7ad6c4867c1f%7Cen-US https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-533660--,00.html Uptown Grand Rapids continues beautification projects for east side business districts

City of Grand Rapids receives $75K grant for local Indigenous art along Grand River. ArtPrize shifts away from traditional public vote for 2021 event. Qualifying households now eligible for federally-funded discounts on internet service. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-may-13 https://www.arts.gov/about/news/2021/national-endowment-arts-announces-second-round-grants-fy-2021 https://www.artprize.org/ https://www.getemergencybroadband.org/

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss is joined in the GRTV City Connection studio by Jordoun Eatman, Project Lead and Lead Neighborhood Connector of the GR Office of Equity & Engagement. Recorded live Monday May 3rd, 2021. A production powered by the Grand Rapids Community Media Center, GRTV, & The Rapidian. http://www.grcity.us/ http://www.therapidian.org/ http://www.grcmc.org/ http://www.grtv.org/ http://www.facebook.com/GRNeighborhoodSummit

The 49507 Project will transform POC/LGBTQ-led education into large-scale murals and youth poetry performances, aiming to uplift perceptions of the city's 49507 neighborhood. https://thediatribe.org/ https://thediatribe.org/the49507project

The City of Grand Rapids releases proposed 2022 budget plan. The Rapid switches to summer service schedule May 10. Gov. Whitmer announces 'MI Vacc to Normal' plan for relaxing state's COVID-19 restrictions. Grand Rapids Public Schools refrains from expanding high school in-person learning to four days a week. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-april-29 http://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/files/assets/public/departments/fiscal-budget/budget-office/fiscal-plans/fy2022-preliminary-fiscal-plan.pdf https://www.ridetherapid.org/articles/summer-service-schedule-begins-may-10-2021 https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90640-558091--,00.html https://www.grps.org/

Grand Rapids park improvements continue through millage investments, leveraged funding. Grand Rapids city commissioners approve city-sponsored events for 2021. Artist registration opens for ArtPrize 2021. MDHHS extends epidemic order, expands face covering requirement to kids age two and up. WYCE kicks off its spring fund drive. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-upd...​ https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Governm...​ http://grandrapidscitymi.iqm2.com/Cit...​ https://www.artprize.org/for-artists/...​ https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/...​ https://grcmc.org/wyce/support

Muneeba Khan, Islamic practitioner and member of At-Tawheed Islamic Center, previously asked Grand Rapids faith communities: "Has there been any aspect of your faith that you've changed your perspective on over this pandemic time?" --- Rev. Yong Su Mark Hepper, Mahayana Buddhist practitioner and Dharma Teacher at the Grand Rapids Buddhist Temple, responds, and passes a question on to other faith communities in the city: "What does your faith, your religion, do to specifically address your members' suffering?" --- Passing the Mic is a project of Grand Rapids Community Media Center (CMC) that promotes online, community-wide discussion of local issues and topics using the spoken word. Residents are invited to share one to three-minute audio responses to locally-focused questions from fellow neighbors, with questions geared toward all Grand Rapidians or specific communities within the city. Keeping the discussion going, speakers are encouraged to end their responses with their own question related to a local issue or topic -- passing along the opportunity to amplify community voices. Opinions expressed through Passing the Mic are those of the speakers and do not reflect the editorial voice of The Rapidian or CMC. Posted responses are subject to The Rapidian's Terms of Use, which include adherence to inclusiveness, civility, ethical reporting, proper credit, local emphasis, and open identity (no anonymous posting).

City of Grand Rapids launches e-scooter Community Pass for underserved residents. The DAAC to host Open Studio Nights in new Creston neighborhood space. Veen Observatory's public observing nights return for 2021 season. MIOSHA extends state's workplace emergency rules through Oct. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-april-15 https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Programs-and-Initiatives/Shared-Mobility https://thedaac.org/events https://www.graaa.org/upcoming-events https://www.michigan.gov/leo/0,5863,7-336-100207---,00.html

Friends of Grand Rapids Parks hosting citywide park cleanups. Grand Rapids Public Library launches home delivery, hold locker services. The City of Grand Rapids launches second year of summer youth jobs program. Kent County opening rapid COVID-19 testing sites this weekend amid spring break travel returns. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-april-8 https://www.friendsofgrparks.org/event/itsmyparkday2021 https://www.grpl.org/about/hours-and-locations https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Our-City/News-Media/City-partners-with-local-employers-to-launch-summer-youth-jobs-program http://www.kentisd.org/Core/News/Article/1619

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss is joined in the GRTV studio by new CEO for The Rapid, Deborah Prato! Get to know Deborah as she starts her journey with our regions transit authority! City Connection is hosted by Linda Gellasch. Broadcasted live on Monday April 5th, 2021. Including a Q&A portion where you can connect by submitting your questions/comments for discussion! Email us at: cityconnection@grcmc.org Learn more about The Rapid at: http://www.ridetherapid.org/ Learn more about what's happening in your city at: http://www.grcity.us/ This production is powered by GRTV, The Rapidian, & the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. http://www.grcmc.org/ http://www.therapidian.org/ http://www.grtv.org/ For nearly 30 years, the mayors of Grand Rapids have hosted City Connection, a monthly, live call-in show on GRTV's Livewire, Comcast channel 24. Mayor John Logie started the program in 1992 as a way to share mayoral perspective with Grand Rapidians and to bring a little more transparency to local government. City Connection is an opportunity to interact directly with one of our city's top elected officials.

Allison Egrin, Jewish practitioner and Program Assistant at Kaufman Interfaith Institute, previously asked Grand Rapids faith communities: "What aspect of your tradition has been the most difficult or taxing within the last year?" --- Muneeba Khan, Islamic practitioner and member of At-Tawheed Islamic Center, responds, and passes a question on to other faith communities in the city: "Has there been any aspect of your faith that you've changed your perspective on over this pandemic time? For instance, you thought about a certain aspect of your faith in one way, but something happened during the pandemic, or you read something, or you heard something, and it completely changed your perspective on it?" --- Passing the Mic is a project of Grand Rapids Community Media Center (CMC) that promotes online, community-wide discussion of local issues and topics using the spoken word. Residents are invited to share one to three-minute audio responses to locally-focused questions from fellow neighbors, with questions geared toward all Grand Rapidians or specific communities within the city. Keeping the discussion going, speakers are encouraged to end their responses with their own question related to a local issue or topic -- passing along the opportunity to amplify community voices. Opinions expressed through Passing the Mic are those of the speakers and do not reflect the editorial voice of The Rapidian or CMC. Posted responses are subject to The Rapidian's Terms of Use, which include adherence to inclusiveness, civility, ethical reporting, proper credit, local emphasis, and open identity (no anonymous posting).

The City of Grand Rapids income tax deadline extended to June 1. Circle Theatre Grand Rapids adds in-theatre, outdoor performances to its 2021 season. The Grand Rapids Community Media Center is looking for a full-time web developer. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Income-Tax-Department/Forms https://circletheatre.org/ https://grcmc.org/node/41326/job-posting-web-developer

The City of Grand Rapids expanding efforts to improve curbside recycling. Kent County Health Department awarded extra COVID-19 vaccines by state for vaccine equity pilot project. New “Women's Way” downtown mural to feature local Latinx leader Maurilia Ortiz Blakely. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-friday-march-12 https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Programs-and-Initiatives/Feet-on-the-Street https://vaccinatewestmi.com/ https://www.womenswaygr.org/

City of Grand Rapids begins planning process for new Master Plan. Michigan loosens COVID-19 gathering restrictions, opening vaccine eligibility to people age 50 and over. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Governm...​ https://vaccinatewestmi.com/​

Festival of the Arts hosting ‘Plein Air' event in June in downtown social zones. LaughFest announces 2021 festival headliners. Grand Rapids Community Foundation's scholarship applications for 2021-22 academic year due March 1. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-friday-feb-26 https://festivalgr.org/ https://www.experiencegr.com/ https://www.laughfestgr.org/events https://www.grfoundation.org/apply-for-scholarships

Brett Townsend, Community Services Specialist at Grand Rapids Community Media Center (CMC), asks leaders or practitioners in Grand Rapids faith communities: "What tenet of your religious or spiritual tradition most stands out to you right now?" --- Allison Egrin, Jewish practitioner and Program Assistant at Kaufman Interfaith Institute, responds, and passes a question on to other faith communities in the city: "What aspect of your tradition has been the most difficult or taxing within the last year?" --- Passing the Mic is a project of CMC that promotes online, community-wide discussion of local issues and topics using the spoken word. Residents are invited to share one to three-minute audio responses to locally-focused questions from fellow neighbors, with questions geared toward all Grand Rapidians or specific communities within the city. Keeping the discussion going, speakers are encouraged to end their responses with their own question related to a local issue or topic -- passing along the opportunity to amplify community voices. Opinions expressed through Passing the Mic are those of the speakers and do not reflect the editorial voice of The Rapidian or CMC. Posted responses are subject to The Rapidian's Terms of Use, which include adherence to inclusiveness, civility, ethical reporting, proper credit, local emphasis, and open identity (no anonymous posting).

City of Grand Rapids launches survey tool to regularly collect quick resident feedback. Grand Rapids Public Library tentatively reopening branches on Feb. 24. Kent County Health Department reports continued decline in county's COVID-19 case growth. Avenue for the Arts to host virtual skills-building talks for creative professionals in March. The DAAC moves into its new permanent space. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-update-friday-feb-19 https://www.flashvote.com/grandrapids https://www.grpl.org/reopen https://www.accesskent.com/Health/covid-19-data.htm https://breakitdownmakeitbetter.org/

Mayor Bliss to deliver virtual State of the City address on Feb. 16. Three Grand Rapids parks lit with luminary pathways for Valentine's Day weekend. The Rapid continues paper ticket phase-out with end of 10-ride paper tickets. U.K. COVID-19 variant confirmed in Kent County. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-friday-feb-12 https://www.facebook.com/events/427843664996490 https://www.friendsofgrparks.org/event/happyhearts-2021 https://wave.ridetherapid.org/ https://www.accesskent.com/Health/covid-19-data.htm

Local museums, library celebrating Black History Month with online events. Grand Rapids Fire Department forms community education team to improve fire prevention. LaughFest returns for mostly-virtual 2021 festival in March. MDHHS allows winter contact sports to resume on Feb. 8. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-feb-4 https://www.facebook.com/events/1108634676251114 https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Fire-Department https://www.laughfestgr.org/ https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss talks with David Green, Grand Rapids' new Communications Director. City Connection is hosted by Linda Gellasch and powered by GRTV & The Rapidian; services of the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. Topics discussed include: World of Winter outdoor festival, making GR a more active 4-season city, homeless outreach efforts & partnerships, affordable housing, David Green's background and his thoughts on modern day communications solutions, engaging with community conversation, GR comparisons to Austin, vaccines, City FInances, violence and public safety, jobs programs, and the upcoming State of the City address. Conversation recorded on February 1st, 2021. http://www.therapidian.org/ http://www.grcmc.org/ http://www.grtv.org/ http://www.grcity.us/ For over 25 years, the monthly live Q&A show featuring the mayor & other city officials of Grand Rapids. Powered by GRTV, The Rapidian, & the Community Media Center. Broadcasting on GRTV's Livewire, Comcast channel 24, streaming online, & now distributed digitally via podcast. Mayor John Logie started the program in 1992 as a way to share mayoral perspective with Grand Rapidians and to bring a little more transparency to local government. City Connection is an opportunity to interact directly with one of our city's top elected officials. Talk to us & submit your questions & comments for discussion via email at: cityconnection@grcmc.org

UICA reopening July 15 in new downtown location. City commissioners approve ground-floor housing in business districts. Large-scale COVID-19 vaccine clinic opens at DeVos Place. SpartanNash pharmacies partner with state to administer COVID-19 vaccines. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-upd... https://www.uica.org/exhibitions-and-... https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Our-Cit... https://www.spectrumhealth.org/covid1... https://www.spartannash.com/spartanna...

Grand Rapids Public Schools resumes in-person learning. Grand Rapids Public Museum opening Windows GR exhibit, highlighting local artists of color. ArtPrize opens artist registration for 2021 event on April 19. Indoor dining at restaurants and bars across Michigan will reopen on February 1st. The Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Foundation is hosting a livestream virtual Lunar New Year celebration on February 12th. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-jan-21 https://www.grps.org/ https://www.grps.org/all-grps-news-events/1087-grab-go-meal-sites-starting-8-24 https://www.grpm.org/ https://www.artprize.org/

Grand Rapids Public Library celebrating 150th anniversary. Free public Wi-Fi comes to 10 Grand Rapids parks. MDHHS extends statewide emergency order, relaxes some restrictions. Meijer partners with state to help administer COVID-19 vaccines. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-friday-jan-15 https://www.grpl.org/ https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation?fbclid=IwAR2-oB9AFMNLjEQtb9_SMzd3DB_G4RT4_89U9TJLcVE5V9Dzi6_-yYcxhZI https://www.facebook.com/GRParksandRec https://www.michigan.gov/images/coronavirus/1-13_COVID_Gathering_Guidelines_v1_712834_7.png https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-549437--,00.html https://vaccinatewestmi.com/

Community leaders address storming of U.S. Capitol. Kent County Health Department asks for patience with COVID-19 vaccine rollout. ArtPrize returning in 2021. The Rapid makes schedule changes to Route 1. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/ethics-and-religion-talk-how-do-you-prevent-clergy-burnout https://therapidian.org/end-pandemic-we-need-make-trust-contagious https://therapidian.org/passing-the-mic-neighbors-of-belknap-lookout https://therapidian.org/guiding-light-welcomes-kyle-hinton-board-directors https://twitter.com/mayorbliss/status/1346983715180830722 https://www.accesskent.com/Departments/BOC/ https://twitter.com/GovWhitmer/status/1346981917648953344 http://vaccinatewestmi.com/ https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_103214_103272-547150--,00.html https://www.artprizeisback.com/ https://www.ridetherapid.org/ride/routes/1

Shelby Garbini, Board Member of King Park Neighbors, asks Grand Rapids' neighborhood associations: "I'm curious how other neighborhood associations are really making sure that they are interacting and engaging with a diverse group of neighbors across all their boundaries? Are they tracking that in some way, or do they have some sort of plan to make sure that they capture all of those voices?" --- Elianna Bootzin, Executive Director of Neighbors of Belknap Lookout, responds, and passes a question on to other neighborhood associations in the city: "Even if you've got that good participation, how do you weigh opinions? Whose opinion counts more? How do you make that decision?" --- Passing the Mic is a project of Grand Rapids Community Media Center (CMC) that promotes online, community-wide discussion of local issues and topics using the spoken word. Residents are invited to share one to three-minute audio responses to locally-focused questions from fellow neighbors, with questions geared toward all Grand Rapidians or specific communities within the city. Keeping the discussion going, speakers are encouraged to end their responses with their own question related to a local issue or topic -- passing along the opportunity to amplify community voices. Opinions expressed through Passing the Mic are those of the speakers and do not reflect the editorial voice of The Rapidian or CMC. Posted responses are subject to The Rapidian's Terms of Use, which include adherence to inclusiveness, civility, ethical reporting, proper credit, local emphasis, and open identity (no anonymous posting).

COVID-19 vaccinations begin in West Michigan. Mel Trotter Ministries, partners prepare winter emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness. Rosa Parks Circle Ice Rink opens Friday, with safety measures. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-upd... https://therapidian.org/season-report... https://therapidian.org/covid-vaccine... https://therapidian.org/kyd-kane-beco... https://therapidian.org/putting-piece... https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/... http://vaccinatewestmi.com/ https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Governm... https://www.facebook.com/RosaParksSka...

Kent County Health Department reports stabilizing COVID-19 case growth for Kent County. Updated guidance on quarantine period from the KCHD. City of Grand Rapids making city parks, playgrounds smoke-free zones on Jan. 1. Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses launches revamped website with directory of local Black-owned businesses. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-december-10 https://therapidian.org/metro-health-university-michigan-health-offers-sign-bonus-new-medical-assistants https://therapidian.org/metro-health-university-michigan-health-offers-sign-bonus-new-medical-assistants https://therapidian.org/secchia-honored-hillman-orr-award-world-affairs-council https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKfjzYtZEL8 https://www.accesskent.com/Health/covid-19-faq.htm https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Clean-Air-and-Public-Places-Ordinance https://grabblocal.com/directory-businesses

City Manager Mark Washington joins Mayor Rosalynn Bliss virtually in the GRTV studio to look back on the year of 2020, and ahead to 2021. Hosted by Linda Gellasch. A production of GRTV, The Rapidian, and the Community Media Center. Conversation recorded Monday December 7th, 2020. http://www.therapidian.org/ http://www.grtv.org/ http://www.grcmc.org/ http://www.grcity.us/ City Connection is a monthly program where Mayor Bliss or a representative from the city will discuss current local affairs, efforts of City Hall & beyond, as well as respond to citizen questions. A production of the Community Media Center & the City of Grand Rapids for over 18 years, to provide transparency and civic engagement with the communities of Grand Rapids. To submit your own question for discussion, please email us at: cityconnection@grcmc.org

Kent County launches #KCTakeoutChallenge to support local restaurants. Grand Rapids Community Foundation accepting scholarship applications for 2021-22 academic year. Cinema Lab is once again partnering with the Wealthy Theatre for free virtual movie and TV show discussions this month. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-december-3 https://therapidian.org/ethics-and-religion-talk-fathers-responsibility https://therapidian.org/passing-the-mic-heartside-downtown-neighborhood-association https://apps.accesskent.com/take-out-challenge https://www.experiencegr.com/blog/post/winter-outdoor-dining https://www.grfoundation.org/apply-for-scholarships

Amy Brower, Executive Director of Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association, asks Grand Rapids' neighborhood associations: "In the midst of all this fast moving change and planning for the future, how are they . . . still preserving some of the rich history of their unique neighborhoods, or some of the stories that reflect their past?" --- Mallory Patterson, Co-Chair of Heartside Downtown Neighborhood Association, responds, and passes a question on to other neighborhood associations in the city: "What advice would you give to newer neighborhood associations as it relates to best serving the community? And, with that, what do you wish you could change or do differently as you're thinking about the future of your organization?" --- Passing the Mic is a project of Grand Rapids Community Media Center (CMC) that promotes online, community-wide discussion of local issues and topics using the spoken word. Residents are invited to share one to three-minute audio responses to locally-focused questions from fellow neighbors, with questions geared toward all Grand Rapidians or specific communities within the city. Keeping the discussion going, speakers are encouraged to end their responses with their own question related to a local issue or topic -- passing along the opportunity to amplify community voices. Opinions expressed through Passing the Mic are those of the speakers and do not reflect the editorial voice of The Rapidian or CMC. Posted responses are subject to The Rapidian's Terms of Use, which include adherence to inclusiveness, civility, ethical reporting, proper credit, local emphasis, and open identity (no anonymous posting).

City of Grand Rapids launches small business grant program, announces temporary service adjustments. Kent County announces violence prevention grants for seven local nonprofits. Grand Rapids Public Museum makes Collections images public domain, free to download. Grand Rapids Public Library returning to curbside, online services only. The Rapidian encourages local residents to share their own stories related to civic, economic, and public health developments in the Grand Rapids area on The Rapidian's platform. To get started as a community reporter, visit TheRapidian.org/write. https://therapidian.org/community-updates-thursday-nov-19 https://therapidian.org/ethics-and-religion-talk-what-meaning-my-soul-part-2 https://therapidian.org/season-report-november-21-2020 https://therapidian.org/local-observatory-sees-steady-turnout-interest-2020 https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Our-City/News-Media/City-modifies-service-delivery-following-%E2%80%98Pause-to-Save-Lives%E2%80%99-order https://www.hwmuw.org/community-violence-prevention-grant https://www.grpm.org/collections https://www.grpl.org/download