Recent Articles

ATHENA Awards Celebrating 25 Years in Grand Rapids

ATHENA Awards Celebrating 25 Years in Grand Rapids

ATHENA was created in 1982, from within the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce, when Martha Mertz was the only woman on the board. "Neither my colleagues nor most community members perceived women as leaders. We didn't see ourselves as leaders, either, mostly...

Just the Right Touch: Hosting House Guests

Just the Right Touch: Hosting House Guests

My husband, John, and I often have overnight guests at our home. Here's what I've learned: First of all, we think preparing for houseguests has many similarities to our travel business. Just as with a tour, guests want privacy in their accommodations. A guest bedroom...

Boutiques by the Dam

Boutiques by the Dam

Another bright sunny day deserves a stroll—and we've picked the charming city of Rockford for our shopping fix. It's too easy to be tempted by restaurants promising gourmet goodies, ice cream shops with a sugary perfume, and a winery where you can fill up growlers...

Perfect Pairings: Restaurant Week is August 13-24

Perfect Pairings: Restaurant Week is August 13-24

Whether you're a dedicated "foodie" or a burger and beer kind of gal, Restaurant Week Grand Rapids' offerings are sure to tempt your palate. More than sixty restaurants are participating, ranging from the immediate downtown area to the surrounding suburbs. Use...

ATHENA: Leading with Fierce Advocacy

ATHENA: Leading with Fierce Advocacy

Sharing one's passion and creating an unstoppable force for the greater good defines the ATHENA tenet Fierce Advocacy. We also concluded that Mary K. Hoodhood, founder of the hunger-fighting organization Kids' Food Basket, is the epitome of Fierce Advocacy. As part of...