Jena has the details on a free monthly summer event series that showcases Detroit farms, food and music. Plus, the latest food news and pop-ups.
Jena Brooker
Jena Brooker is BridgeDetroit's environmental reporter, covering food and agriculture, pollution and climate change. She has held three fellowships: a ProPublica fellowship, where she led an investigative project on heavy industry in Detroit neighborhoods; a Data Fellowship at the USC Annenberg Center for Health Journalism, where she produced award-winning coverage of Detroit's automotive industry and environmental racism; and a Science-Health-Environment Reporting Fellowship through CASW, AHCJ and SEJ. Her work has also earned the Michigan Press Association public service award three years in a row and recognition as Young Journalist of the Year in 2023. Before joining BridgeDetroit, she covered environmental issues across the Midwest as a Reporting Fellow for Grist.
Jena holds a bachelor's degree in environmental studies from the University of Michigan, and her work has appeared in The Guardian, Mother Jones, Salon, Slate, Grist, Next City, Chalkbeat and Planet Detroit.
Posted inEnvironment, Jobs & Economic Development
An Indigenous collective asked about buying land bank property. Then the price jumped.
After the Thečhíȟila Collective submitted an inquiry to the land bank for a lot priced at $7,000, the authority raised the price to $136,500.
Posted inJB's Bites
JB’s Bites: Cass Corridor seeks Chinese food
I came across several other happenings coming up related to Chinatown like the first Chinatown block party and a second street sign unveiling.
Posted inBusiness
Former Chung’s location in Cass Corridor looking for tenants
The building owners hope to find three Asian food businesses to fill the units in honor of its importance in Detroit’s former Chinatown.
Posted inJB's Bites
JB’s Bites: Helping Black farmers get land
For the first time this year the fund is going on tour at local library branches to help get potential applicants ready and to answer questions.
Posted inCivic and Community Information, Environment
New growth for Cadillac Urban Gardens in Southwest Detroit
The urban garden grows free produce for residents. The recent addition of a new greenhouse and electricity will provide for even more Detroiters.
Posted inJB's Bites
JB’s Bites: Southwest Detroit parking lot grows unexpected harvest
Cadillac Urban Gardens is about to grow its impact in Southwest Detroit. Jena has the story, plus the latest food news and pop-ups.
Posted inJB's Bites
JB’s Bites: Wine Club for Detroiters
Jena writes on a new wine club for Detroiters. Plus, the latest food news and events.
Posted inArts & Culture
Detroiter starts wine club to bridge communities
Thor Jones, founder of Hospitality Included, a hospitality industry advocacy group, says the wine scene is growing in Detroit and he wants to ensure more Black residents feel welcome.
Posted inJB's Bites
JB’s Bites: E. Warren kitchen for rent
Jena writes about a new commercial kitchen opening up in East English Village. It will be rentable by the hour for chefs and small food businesses. Plus, the latest in food news, pop-ups and more.