Join Caroline Cook for an engaging one-hour presentation that brings Grand Rapids to life through its rich history, architecture, art, landmarks, culture, and people. A gifted storyteller with a deep well of knowledge and a genuine love for the city, Caroline weaves facts and narratives into presentations that are evocative, relevant, entertaining, and hopeful. Whether you are a lifelong resident or new to the area, you’ll leave with fresh insights, meaningful connections, and a renewed appreciation for Grand Rapids.
ArtPrize Afterglow (Wednesday, September 30): For 16 days and nights in late September and early October, the city of Grand Rapids is a mecca for art enthusiasts from around the world. Artists, art aficionados, critics, and creative novices stroll the streets of this incredible outdoor gallery, hoping for inspiration and glimpses of man-made beauty. The benefit of being local is the “afterglow”. This virtual tour reveals the proof of ArtPrize competitions past…the public masterpieces that reside permanently in GR. We visit these gifts to the city and discover the back stories…how these pieces became so enduringly valuable. F26-1130A
Grand Rapids Most Haunted (Wednesday, October 28): Do you believe in ghosts, ghouls, poltergeists, apparitions, phantoms, spooks, psychic phenomena or things that go “bump” in the night? If one person sees a ghost, even if several times, you may blame it on an active imagination; but if two or more people see the same spirit in the same place several years apart, you may just reconsider. This virtual tour takes you by iconic locations where there have been waaaaay MORE than just two sightings or unusual activity. There are two questions that we attempt to answer on this spooky journey…Who suffered a tragic death here and is still hanging around? And is this LEGEND or REAL? F26-1130B
Time, Talent, Treasures…Part One (Tuesday, November 17): This is the history of philanthropy in Grand Rapids. We are a success story of ordinary citizens and courageous leaders who never stop believing in our community and our future. From our earliest settlers in the nineteenth century until present time, our city has been blessed with a spirit of generosity in vision and action. We’ll criss-cross downtown virtually to visit those places and spaces which were gifted to us to enjoy. For better. For good. For all. F26-1130C
Twinklin’ Holiday Lights (Wednesday, December 16): Are you in the holiday mood? Feeling festive? Join in the fun - come dressed in your finest December sweater as we celebrate the merry season together. First, you will learn history of holiday lighting in our country. Then, through twinklin’ photographs, you’ll experience downtown Grand Rapids bejeweled and illuminated with both contemporary and nostalgic lighting displays. Virtually, the tour will pass by uniquely special places, some of which will evoke warm feelings from Christmas’s past. F26-1130D
