Serving Those In Need - G-Sync

West Michigan is a place that continues to amaze me more each week. One area in which I am in complete awe is the community’s willingness to step forward when presented with a need and mobilize quickly to make things right.

A shining example of this willingness is highlighted proudly in G-Sync this week.  The upcoming Sunday fundraiser to help one of the most respected local musicians, Ralston Bowles, is why my love for our community continues to grow each year. Ralston recently underwent emergency surgery once it was discovered he had colon cancer. 

Since many on the music scene have benefited directly or indirectly from his blazing a path for local music since the 1970s, it is a fitting tribute that so many are coming together to make a difference. This hastily crafted event and the tremendous outpouring of individuals is why I feel we have grown up to become the state’s biggest small town.

The power of the web made it possible to bring so many people together for Ralston's fundraiser on Sunday, as well as ensure him a spot on the bill of performers at the upcoming Rothbury Festival.  As an update my column last week, I'm ecstatic to report that Ralston will be playing at Rothbury, thanks to a massive email campaign to the festival's managers. (Ralston missed Rothbury's deadline due to his hospital stay involving surgery and weeks of treatment.) 

While Rapid Growth highlights change and evolution of our metro area, it's nice to know that something as fundamental as generosity keeps constant. 

“To see people coming together for the common good,” says Ralston, “is what I have worked for all these years - I just never thought I would be the recipient of it.”

G-Sync is off next week so be sure to visit downtown Grand Rapids for Super Dre on July 3 at Rosa Parks Circle and on the fourth for fireworks and the exciting pub crawl immediately after the event. Think of it as your patriotic duty!

Choose local.…and often.  To view this week's G-Sync events click here

– Tommy Allen, Lifestyle Editor

E: [email protected]

T: @TommyGSync

(An account has been set up at Macatawa Bank to fund his growing medical expenses or people can click here  to contribute via PayPal. Account:  [email protected])