Voice

GR|MAG had the opportunity to talk with Jenny Kinne, the new owner of Books & Mortar, about her transition from employee to owner as well as her goals for the store, thoughts on the uniqueness of independent bookstores and some of her favorite reads.

For WMCAT’s Dennis Grantz, teaching the arts is a labor of love.

The Grand Rapids Griffins kick off the 2018-19 season this month under the leadership of Ben Simon, who was named the team’s 11th head coach in June. But Simon is no stranger to Grand Rapids — he spent the last three seasons as assistant coach for the Griffins, helping lead the team to a Calder Cup title in 2017, and played for the team in the 2006-07 season.

Santa’s got more than a brand new bag this Christmas. In fact, he’s got a new, trendy look because The People Picture Company is offering holiday sessions with Hipster Santa this Christmas season.

The Grand Rapids Ballet welcomed accomplished dancer, choreographer and artistic entrepreneur James Sofranko as its new artistic director on July 1. In this capacity, Sofranko will be responsible for all artistic direction and planning for the GR Ballet.

Political Pulse hit the Grand Rapids airwaves in fall 2016. Denavvia Mojet, the program’s host, said her goal was to “bring critical discourse and education around local politics to the region’s urban listener in a way that was fun, engaging, and honest.”

Ruari Griffin, 11, competes this weekend in her third State Games. Griffin took up archery three years ago after a medical condition left her unable to continue swimming.

Since the age of 9, RC Caylan has had a passion for fashion and design. Born and raised in the Philippines, his inspiration came from his grandmother, a schoolteacher and uniform seamstress.

Award-winning illustrator and local design student Alana Fletcher is taking her artistic talents to new heights.

Scott and Linda LaFontsee, owners of LaFontsee Galleries, celebrate a milestone in the artistic community by throwing a party and showing West Michigan what a 30-year commitment looks like.

Everyone has a story worth sharing.

Earth Day is Sunday, so GR|MAG talked with West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) Executive Director Bill Wood about how his organization is making positive changes in West Michigan. He also had some suggestions for how everyone can pitch in through taking small actions.

Trevor Straub founded MI Drag Brunch.

Teaching 'less shame and more wonder'

When you work with your friend in the retail business for around 12 years you start to think about doing it on your own terms. For Carmen Foster and Amanda Armstrong, co-owners of the recently launched athleisure brand Covet Leisure, an online athleisure business appealed to them—and literally was walking right in front of them.

Disney couple wants to get people talking again.

City Commissioner Milinda Ysasi was sworn in on Dec. 17.

ArtPrize Best Venue winner five out of the past six years, SiTE:LAB, is clearly an event favorite, so earlier this summer when the non-profit art organization announced it will not be participating in ArtPrize Nine it was a surprise.

Artist Erick Picardo uses vibrant colors, hopeful imagery in his murals.

With Punxsutawney Phil promising six more weeks of winter (we think that's an optimistic estimate), Grand Rapids nonprofits helping homeless individuals and families are still in need of winter gear to help those in need stay warm.