Author

Natalie Burg

Natalie Burg's Latest Articles

The evolution of online learning in policy and the classroom

The online learning landscape has changed substantially since a decade ago when Michigan became the first state in the nation to require students to have an online learning experience before graduating from high school. Here, we explore how online learning has evolved over the last ten years, from the way classrooms work to what it means to "go" to school.

Scott Robbins stands among Michigan maples.
The surprising second life of a Michigan tree

In Michigan, we appreciate our trees for their beauty, and the shade and recreation they provide. But that's just part of their value. Here, we follow the surprising second life of a Michigan tree, from the day it's cut to its transformation into a wood product, and discover the big impact it has along the way.

Chinook Salmon
Invasive or just non-native? Why Michigan loves Pacific salmon and fears sea lamprey

Michiganders are rightly on alert for invasive species. But not all non-native species are invasive. Here, we explore the benefits of some of Michigan's non-native species and how we distinguish if a newcomer to the ecosystem should be loved or feared.

Mt. Biking (Arcadia Bluffs)
Vacationing in the trees: How forests are helping to grow Michigan’s tourism economy

Sandy beaches and boating may be the quintessential tourist attractions in Michigan, but forests are driving a growing segment of the state's tourism economy. Here's why healthy trees matter for growing jobs and local economies in Michigan. 

What We’ve Lost: The community impact of invasive species

Invasive species are costly to Michigan cities and their residents, negatively affecting everyone's quality of life. Here's some of what we've lost to invasive species and how we can prevent future invasives from causing similar damage.

Partying with pests: A community approach to fighting invasive species

Owosso nature preserve is fighting the invasive plant garlic mustard through creative events and community education--and by, well, eating all the garlic mustard they can find.

Marshall and Detroit learn from one another

What 1,300 downtown professional are learning from Detroit this week, and what Detroit can learn from them. Mainstreet Marshall was there, Natalie Burg reports.

The Green Door survives decades with commitment to regulars, great entertainment

While neighboring businesses suffered during the economic decline, Lansing's live entertainment bar, the Green Door didn't just survive; it grew. By never wavering in their commitment to the community while evolving their entertainment to reach new audiences, the Green Door has built a reputation as one of Lansing's best hangouts.

The Sparrows welcomes community, grows with Wealthy Street neighborhood

Inspired by the gathering places of early 20th century writers and poets in Russia, Lori Slager and two friends set out to make a coffee shop in Grand Rapids where they'd want to hangout. Now, The Sparrows is the gathering space for neighbors and has been a catalyst for more neighborhood growth.

Owner Lori Slager at The Sparrows in Grand Rapids
Small Businesses As Third Places Experience Growth

How many places do you have? If you're not sure, here's a recommendation: three. In this special report, we'll discover small businesses throughout Michigan that serve as "third places" for their communities, and are growing because of it. 

Our Sponsors

Gilmore Foundation

Our Media Partners

Battle Creek Community Foundation
Enna Foundation
BINDA Foundation
Southwest Journalism Media Collaborative

Solutions journalism takes time, trust, and your support.

Close
Psst. We could use your help today!

Don't miss out!

Everything Southwest Michigan, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.