No matter how we view our own community, Detroit's destiny and the region's destiny are one and the same. Two-and-a-half years ago, Francis Grunow wrote this editorial about his visit to Portland, Oregon and we think it's just as relevant today as it was then. In talking about regionalism, he asks: Why isn't more being done here to emulate the Rose City's successes?

Once upon a time cities were built near waterways, roads, and rail. Today, as markets go global, airports are becoming the main artery for most businesses. Detroit Region Aerotropolis is our attempt to capitalize on this new reality. Metromode asks: Can we compete on the international stage? 

After a century of aggressive industrialization, Metro Detroit is seeing the intentional and unintentional benefits of the downturn - the return of nature. From greenways to land conservancy, our region is getting greener and wilder. Metromode's Dennis Archambault explains why that's a good thing.

Metro Detroit recently landed a $2.85 million Sustainable Communities grant to help the region become more dense and develop its transit options. Brad Garmon, land programs director at the Michigan Environmental Council, offers a free-thinking approach to connecting the historically disparate forces of housing, land use, and eco-consciousness.

Our guest blogger for this week is Maud Lyon. Maud is the founding director of the Cultural Alliance, and a consultant for numerous nonprofit organizations.Check back here each week day to read Maud's thoughts on the state of arts and culture in Michigan.