Events

Christian Gaines was born in Brussels, Belgium to American parents, moved to the United Kingdom when he was four years old, then came to the United States in 1984 to attend Vassar College, graduating in 1987 with a B.A. in English Literature. In 1988, Christian helped to start the American Pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival, serving…

Jason Meyer is currently the President and CEO at Blandford Nature Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With a background in conservation, environmental education, and nonprofit management, he brings a diverse set of skills and experiences to the profession. Over the past several years, Jason has led two nature centers in Michigan – Fenner Nature Center…

EVERYONE WANTS ANOTHER BEST DAY IKUS Life Enrichment Services helps individuals with disabilities to discover their potential, experience greater freedom, learn new skills, and have fun in a safe environment. Ultimately, IKUS gives clients the tools they need to make every day another best day. Because everyone wants another best day, IKUS serves individuals from…

Please join us for our inaugural First Thursday afternoon meeting on Thursday, August 3, 4:00pm at Varnum. Please RSVP by 12:00pm on  Friday, July 28th to the Rotary office at rotary@grrotary.org or by calling 616-459-5640. We will have a modified program followed by an opportunity to network with fellow Rotarians and guests while enjoying the view of…

Matt Chapman, Project coordinator and director of Grand Rapids Whitewater earned a BS in Advertising and Public Relations and holds a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Grand Valley State University. Matt spent his summers as a child playing in and along the Chippewa River in Midland, MI. where he first developed a passion for…

Johnny Brann Sr. Johnny Sr. is a second-generation restauranteur with over forty years of experience. Along, with his brothers Tommy and Mike, Johnny has extended the legacy of their famous father, John Brann Sr., who made the sizzling sirloin steak a favorite dinner in Grand Rapids. Brann’s Steakhouse & Grille now has ten locations across…

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss became the City of Grand Rapids’ first female Mayor when she took office on January 1, 2016. She previously served as a Second Ward City Commissioner for 10 years. Mayor Bliss also is an adjunct professor at Grand Valley State University's School of Social Work. She earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminal…