TEDxMacatawa speakers share ideas for enriching the Lakeshore and changing the world
Thirteen West Michigan residents offered visions for a better society, from health care reform to a ministry built on mac 'n' cheese.
Kym Reinstadler's Latest Articles
Bidding farewell to iconic J.H. Campbell power plant
Consumers Energy will shut down its last coal-fired electrical generators in the Campbell Complex by May 31, 2025. Demolition of the plant, including its iconic smokestacks, could begin as early as 2026.
Special funds are a step toward leveling the playing field for Black farmers
For the first time, BIPOC farmers in West Michigan will be able to apply for a grant through the West Michigan Farmers of Color Land Fund to help them buy, maintain, and improve agricultural land.
Michigan Good Food Fund growing new farm and food businesses
Through Michigan Good Food Fund partners, food and farm entrepreneurs receive business assistance tailored to their needs.
Dolly Parton building readers and dreamers in rural Allegan County
The iconic country musician’s Imagination Library provides Allegan County children with free age-appropriate books mailed every month until they turn 5.
Copper Country initiative emphasizes fresh and local foods
In the western Upper Peninsula, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community strives toward the goal of food sovereignty, strengthening the community's ability to produce more of its own fresh and local food sources.
Salvadoran-born woman celebrates Hispanic contributions, culture in Tri-Cities
A refugee from El Salvador who witnessed civil war atrocities at a tender age, Reyna Masko has become one of West Michigan’s staunchest advocates for Hispanic people and Latin cultures.
Accountant with hearing loss advocates for her success
Hungerford Nichols accountant Megan Howe talks about navigating her personal and professional life with hearing loss.
Holland Symphony President Kay Walvoord strikes a high note
The leader of one of Holland’s preeminent music institutions for more than 30 years, Kay Walvoord is described as a passionate visionary. She works to broaden HSO’s appeal among community members who did not grow up with classical music performances. That initiative to infuse diversity, equity and inclusion has resulted in more community collaborations.
Kalamazoo area’s accessible transit system has been almost 20 years in the making
Less than 10% of Kalamazoo’s nearly 800 bus stops were considered accessible a dozen years ago, but today almost half are accessible. In 2020, the city of Kalamazoo designated $180,000 of its sidewalk improvement budget to creating accessible bus stops in its five core neighborhoods.
