Business & Economy

‘A dream and an 8-foot table’: How the Holt Farmers’ Market is helping startup businesses

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The Holt Farmers’ Market isn’t just any farmers’ market. The compact former Delhi Township Fire Department building, which only allows 23 tables inside, serves as a space for startups and young businesses to grow and thrive.             Ofilia Diaz, the proud owner of a Mexican restaurant called El Burrito, is a testament to the transformative power of the Holt Farmers’ Market. Located just a few doors down from the market, her journey from a dream to a successful business was made possible by the support and opportunities provided by the market. “She just started selling hot food right there at the farmer’s market,” market manager Chuck Grinnell said.

News

Six Faculty Members Honored for 24 Years of Service at Okemos Public Schools

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It was a chilly, snowy January night outside, but the Okemos Public Schools board meeting had a different feeling than that of a mid-Michigan winter.             Six faculty members were recognized by the board that night for attaining 24 years of service with the district.             “When I look at this list, I know personally how much each and every one of these individuals has impacted our kids over time,” Superintendent of Schools John Hood said. “Their commitment to lifelong learning as educators, commitment to serving students has been remarkable.”

Faculty recognizedJob titleKelly CarrierScience Teacher at Okemos High SchoolStacy ChristensenArt Teacher at Chippewa Middle SchoolJennifer EddyGifted & Talented Coordinator for the DistrictRachel Freeman-BaldwinEnglish Teacher at Okemos High SchoolSusan GidenerFood Service Worker for the DistrictMarie Smith2nd Grade Teacher at Bennett Woods Elementary School

            While the moment didn’t last much longer than some words from Hood and a round of applause from those in attendance at the meeting, the journey that each faculty member has been on over the past 24 years is individually unique.             Rachel Freeman-Baldwin teaches 9th and 12th grade English at Okemos High School.