Although Grand Rapids is a relatively large city, the community interacts in a small-town sort of way. One of Grand Rapid's biggest focuses is on buying local and giving back to the pool of Grand Rapids-area farmers and suppliers. Because of this focus, there are several farmer's markets situated right in the middle of the bustling streets and towering buildings of downtown Grand Rapids.
The outdoors farmer's markets offer a large selection of different items, including little trinkets and modern terrariums...
fresh-cut flowers in colorful bundles and bouquets...
fresh fruits and vegetables that are locally grown and chemical-free...
and homemade jellies, honey, spreads, spices, and teas.
Although outdoors farmers markets are very popular, there are some restrictions as far as what can be offered. Indoors farmers markets offer a larger variety of products because of their connection to electricity, and therefore ovens, electric tools, and refrigeration. Because of this, the indoors farmer's market in Grand Rapids carries fresh fish, full, cooked meals...
and even sweet treats and confections. And all products can be purchased with the intent of giving back to a community that thinks big and buys small!
Street Photography: A man poses candidly in the middle of the street for my camera: "Did you get me in the picture? No? How about now?"
An elderly couple takes an afternoon walk around Grand Rapids.
A man and his daughter stand outside of Madcap coffee shop.
A woman studies as the sun goes down over Rosa Parks Circle.
A man who simply goes by "Walter" plays his saxophone on a city bench. He is self-taught and says that practicing jazz music in the streets is very rewarding. The best moments, according to Walter, are when people stop and listen, and he can tell that he has lifted someone's spirits.
Speech/Speaker: Pastor Troy Evans guest speaks at Wellspring Church in Hudsonville. His sermon was entitled, "Who Am I?"
Troy Evans is the pastor at The Edge Urban Fellowship in Grand Rapids.
His teaching style is very dynamic and exciting, making his sermons thought-provoking and enjoyable to listen to.
