Last week Affirmations help celebrate National Coming Out Day with an event that introduced Metro Detroit to the next generation of LGBT leadership. The room was packed, the speeches and stories were inspirational, and Metromode's Kim North Shine was there to take it all in.

Chris Leinberger is a smart guy. A senior fellow at the Brooking's Institute, U-M professor, and real estate developer, he brings on-the-ground experience to urban planning theories and research. Metromode's Kim North Shine chatted with Leinberger about metro Detroit's suburban communities and how their DDA's can pave the way to a more prosperous and vibrant future.

It's a well-known fact that immigrants are an entrepreneurial crowd. Yet, common misconceptions among ethnic groups can splinter economic and social relations. A pair of newspaper publishers saw the rift between those of Jewish and Chaldean heritage and got together to form the "Building Communities" program, which offers cultural exchange, a teen forum, and even an angel investment fund.

Brazil native Antonio Lück, portfolio manager at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, has lived in the Detroit area for under four years, yet has built a chain of friendships and activities that many would take a lifetime to amass. This week he writes on how a collaboration between a Brazil university and WSU brought him to Detroit's shores, the seeding of the Detroit Young Professionals volunteer and leadership group, and entrepreneurial gusto in the city.

Fusion, a networking and leadership group for young Detroit professionals, has a spot at the table at the upcoming Mackinac Policy Conference. Its director, Christianne Sims, will be discussing the group's goals for this important gathering of the state's business, civic, and political leaders.

Ypsilanti resident Steve Pierce was launching Internet service companies before anyone ever heard the word website. In January, he and his partner launched Wireless Ypsi, one of the most successful free wireless services in the state. Since then they've helped several Michigan communities set up similar networks. Steve will share the secret of bringing free wireless to the masses.