Traditionally, non-profit boards were the domain of the... um... more mature. But organizations are discovering the advantages of attracting young professionals into leadership positions. Not only do they bring new ideas and energy, they also ensure the next generation of investment and support.
Sometimes you need more than just a SPARK. If Ann Arbor wants to compete on the national tech stage it needs to do a better job of developing its geek culture. Enter Tech Brewery and the Workantile Exchange, a pair of private, entrepreneurial hothouses. These two co-working spaces are at the center of a growing geek movement that believes that united, techies stand, divided, they fall.
The arts are getting pretty roughed up in the current economy. How do local arts and culture groups survive in a state that cuts all its funding? And, more importantly, what are the implications for our region as it struggles to attract and retain new economy workers?
Sometimes size does matter. Working for a large company like Visteon can be very different than taking a position at a start-up. As Ann Arbor's new economy seeds the ground with small tech firms, transitioning employees must adapt to changing job expectations.
Who says you can't get great seafood in the Midwest? T.R. Durham's Tracklements and Smokery has earned an international reputation for its delectable smoked fish. How much of a reputation? In 2007 his shop sold seven tons of cold-smoked salmon.
From self-proclaimed dilettante to transformational director, over the last 20 years Ken Fischer has cemented the University Musical Society's reputation as a world class arts organization. Collaborating with everyone from Martha Graham to the Royal Shakespeare Company, UMS has introduced Ann Arbor to performing artists from every corner of the globe.
Gone are the days of smoke-filled backroom deals over jumbo-sized brandy snifters. Ann Arbor's investors and entrepreneurs tend to do business over a downtown omelette and espresso or microbrew and appetizer.
Okay, so maybe you have to put off plans for buying a new car or upgrading your futon to a leather sofa. Luxury can still be had... in bite-sized morsels. Sweet Gem Confections is yet another example of Ann Arbor's ever-growing foodie culture, offering handmade artisan chocolates that won't stop the banks from failing but just might make the moment they do a little bit sweeter..
Using a part of the body the game typically shuns, PORT's Street Soccer team lends a hand to those who need it most, providing the homeless with a chance to engage as players, teammates and equals.
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