If you have lived in Grand Rapids for as long as I have, then you know that there are those in our community who are real champions of the arts.
Most times these folks are easy to spot in our community from their names on the top of our arts buildings to the dedication plates often adorning many of the seats within our local theatrical venues.
But there are also those less obvious champions who through their lived experience and devotion to community organizing within the arts have made a lasting impression just as valuable as any name on a building or brick.
One such person is our singer/songwriter
Ralston Bowles, who not only has made a professional name for himself, but along the way has shepherded so many acts over the years to the center stage spotlight.
Ralston has done this quietly via numerous activities, from his early days of showcasing local musicians on one of our local commercial radio stations to the wildly popular Tuesday Night Music Club he hosted at Meijer Gardens.
And while this community of artists has highlighted our capacity over the years to care for our artists in need, I want to break from the standards of this entertainment section to feature an important fundraiser worth considering attending this Sunday.
Recently, Ralston Bowles’ wife, Cindy, was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, and because of the added financial strain this has placed on our first family of our local music scene, area musicians are banding together on March 19 at The Intersection Lounge to raise money to help them during their hour of need.
Ralston has been a true champion for so many in the performing arts over the years, and it is time for us as a community to consider how we can shower this family at this time with the gratitude and funds they so humbly deserve.
John Sinkevics of
Local Spins will be the emcee for the event with the following acts scheduled to perform:
Josh Rose 3:30 p.m.
Fauxgrass 4:00 p.m.
Joe Shields 4:40 p.m.
Channing & Quinn 5:05 p.m.
Drew Nelson 5:45 p.m.
Troll for Trout & Larry McCray 6:15 p.m.
Mick Lane 6:55 p.m.
Eric Engblade Trio 7:25 p.m.
Hannah Rose Graves 8:05 p.m.
The Soul Syndicate 8:35 p.m.