Come join your fellow WestSiders and learn about what is going on in the StockBridge Business District. This meet up will be from noon to 1 p.m.

Location: Bridge Street Market Coffee Shop

Address: 405 Seward Ave NW
Agenda and Presenter’s:

Welcome, Thank you Bridge Street Market for hosting us.

Introductions: What is your favorite animal? (5 minutes)

Ryan Wallkes, Bridge Street Ministries, leading the SBA meeting, house keeping (5 minutes)

AliciaMarie Belchak First-Ward, Commissioner-Elect (8 minutes, no open questions, meet with her one-on-one afterwards please.)

AliciaMarie Belchak serves as the City Commissioner for Grand Rapids’ First Ward, becoming the first woman elected to this position in the ward history. With a background in journalism, science, and community advocacy, Commissioner Belchak brings decades of experience in public service, environmental sustainability, and economic development. She is committed to creating safe, thriving neighborhoods, championing affordable housing, and advancing policies that uplift working families a

local entrepreneurs. As part of her role, she serves on the Community Development Committee, the Committee of the Whole, the Committee on Appeals and Districts, the South-Division Grandville Avenue Corridor Improvement Authority, and the Kent County Community Action Governing Board. Commissioner Belchak strives to bring fresh perspectives and effective leadership to City Hall while ensuring accountability and transparency in government. She believes in leading with integrity, listening

to diverse voices, and fostering a city where all residents can thrive. Reach out to her at abelchak@grcity.us or 616.456.3000. Follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/votebelchak or @votebelchak on Instagram. AliciaMarie looks forward to meeting and serving all the amazing neighbors of the First Ward.

Kailey Smith-Barth, ArtPrize (8 minutes)

Kailey Smith-Barth (she/her) is the Exhibitions Manager and Internship Manager at ArtPrize, specializing in arts administration and fine art curation. With a background in art history and visual studies, she oversees exhibitions, manages artist and venue relations, and coordinates large-scale art installations. Kailey is passionate about creating impactful art experiences and building connections within the creative community.

Emilio Zamarripa, Executive Director from Steepletown (8 minutes)

Emilio started at Steepletown 11 years ago as a GVSU undergraduate intern, was hired as a youth case manager, and is now the Workforce Development Director. His personal mission is to empower youth and young adults to pursue their academic and professional goals. Emilio puts his passion into practice through advocacy, community engagement, and education.

 Monica Hall  (5 minutes) Our New, Westside Commercial Corridor Manager

Thank you for coming!

1 p.m. end meeting

FAQ: What’s a typical event like? We meet from 12-1 p.m. Sometimes lunch is provided, and sometimes just something light. We have 3-5 speakers present and share a quick update or overview about relevant topics to the WestSide. It's very casual, very authentic, and our meetings are used as a launching pad to create meaningful relationships with our neighbors and fellow business people.