OFF AND RUNNING: Check out this issue for the 17 new research projects that begin this year, thanks to the Leopold Center’s long-running Competitive Grants Program. We also highlight other efforts that will help local food entrepreneurs get off the ground -- a new shared-use community kitchen in the Sherman Hill neighborhood in Des Moines is closer to reality, as well as plans for edible landscapes, food box programs and community gardens in Cedar Rapids and Cresco, thanks to Leopold Center support. Director Mark Rasmussen shares his family’s painful past related to farmland transition and Distinguished Fellow Fred Kirschenmann discusses our hunger for connection.

OTHER FEATURES: Research showing how grass-finished beef is possible in Iowa, a look at the growing number of food hubs in Iowa, profiles of two new Leopold Center advisory board members, how the performance arts are helping us talk about difficult issues, and a new book written by the Leopold Center’s first director.