Name: Michigan Author Series - Colleen Alles
Start: 2026-11-03
End: 2026-11-03

We are an economic generator through sports tourism for Greater Grand Rapids and Kent County in the West Michigan area.

We own and operate an award winning baseball/softball complex; the Meijer Sports Complex [www.MeijerSportsComplex.com](https://www.MeijerSportsComplex.com) featuring eight fields, including a championship field that seats 1,000.

Our signature event, the Meijer State Games of Michigan (Olympic-style sporting event), draws 10,000 athletes through 60+ sports in its Winter and Summer Games.  We work with many of our local sports clubs and organizations to host various regional and national tournaments.

Why Grand Rapids? We have:
•	12,000 + hotel rooms (2,500 downtown)
•	234,000 square foot downtown convention center (fits 40 volleyball courts)
•	12,000 seat Van Andel Arena
•	5 facilities that feature 4+ courts and multiple grass or turf fields
•	Grant program for new events
•	and more!

West Michigan Sports Commission

Explore our city's early history through Charles E. Belknap’s *The Yesterdays of Grand Rapids*. This classic work, which began as a popular column in the Grand Rapids Press, features Belknap's firsthand accounts of life in the Grand River valley. Local historian Colleen Alles recently edited and expanded this collection, adding new stories by Belknap and providing her own contextual essays. At this event, Alles will share insights into Belknap’s remarkable life and discuss her process for researching and revising this new edition. Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase copies of the book. For adults.

Michigan Author Series - Colleen Alles

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at the Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids West, nestled in the vibrant heart of Grandville, MI. Our prime location at 3451 Rivertown Point Ct SW places you moments away from premier shopping destinations, delightful dining, and endless entertainment options. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, our extensively renovated suites offer a luxurious retreat with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping areas, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi to keep you connected. Start your day with our free hot breakfast, stay fit in our modern fitness center, or unwind in our indoor pool. Our friendly, attentive staff are dedicated to providing personalized service, ensuring a memorable stay. At Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids West, you'll experience the comforts of home while enjoying the excitement of Grandville – making it the perfect choice for your next getaway. 

Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids West

Forget about fancy. When all you need is a solid deal on a simple stay, our Rodeway Inn® Grandville hotel is just what you’re looking for.

We’re conveniently located off Interstate 196 near the John Ball Zoo, and you’ll find plenty of other local sites, activities and attractions to explore near our pet-friendly Grandville hotel. Nearby landmarks include the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, RiverTown Crossings, Tanger Outlets mall, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, DeVos Place Convention Center and Van Andel Arena. We’re only a short drive away from downtown Grand Rapids, downtown Holland, Lake Michigan, Michigan's Adventure and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. You can also easily get to multiple restaurants, businesses and educational institutions nearby.

We offer the basics for traveling on a budget with the reliability and security of a national brand that you can trust. Take advantage of amenities like meeting space, a guest laundry facility, free weekday newspapers, a business center and parking for both compact and oversized vehicles. Start the day with a refreshing hot shower and free coffee. A full-service restaurant and lounge/bar are also available for your dining pleasure. When it’s time to wind down, your comfortable guest room features a TV with premium channels and a cozy bed. If you need to stay connected, we offer free WiFi and business center services. Enjoy the combination of cozy accommodations, friendly service, wonderful amenities and affordable rates at our Rodeway Inn Grandville hotel. Book now — we look forward to hosting you soon.

Rodeway Inn

Experience a comfortable and delightful stay at Clarion Inn & Suites Airport, located at the heart of Grand Rapids. Just minutes away from the airport, this hotel offers spacious rooms, modern amenities, and top-tier customer service to ensure maximum satisfaction. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, Clarion Inn & Suites promises a relaxing ambiance that is perfect after a long day of travel or exploring the city. We make every stay memorable with our warm hospitality and thoughtfully curated services. Book your next stay with us and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. 

Clarion Inn & Suites Airport

Welcome to Staybridge Suites Grand Rapids SW - Grandville, an IHG Hotel, your home away from home in the heart of Michigan. Nestled at 3675 Potomac Cir, Grandville, MI, this elegant hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for both leisure and business travelers. Our spacious suites are designed with your relaxation in mind, featuring fully-equipped kitchens, plush bedding, and complimentary Wi-Fi to keep you connected. Start your day with our delicious, free breakfast, and unwind in the evening at our social reception events. Take a dip in the indoor pool, stay active in the fitness center, or explore the local area's shopping and dining options. With our friendly staff, 24-hour business center, and prime location close to Grand Rapids' top attractions, Staybridge Suites ensures a memorable stay that feels just like home, but better. Experience the difference with us – your perfect Michigan getaway awaits. 

Staybridge Suites Grand Rapids SW - Grandville, an IHG Hotel

Red Roof Inn Grand Rapids Airport is one of the best non-smoking budget hotels in Grand Rapids, MI that’s only two miles from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR). With easy access to I-96, you can find us near Frederik Meijer Gardens, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and Woodland Mall.

We offer our guests free Wi-Fi, a free expanded cable package featuring HBO, a business center and free coffee in the lobby as well as a microwave and mini-refrigerator in all rooms. Red Roof Inn Grand Rapids Airport is a pet-friendly hotel. 

Red Roof Inn Grand Rapids Airport

Experience world-class hospitality at Drury Inn & Suites Grand Rapids. Conveniently located at 5175 28th St SE, with proximity to local attractions and businesses, our hotel offers a blend of comfort and convenience. Enjoy spacious suites, complimentary Wi-Fi, ample parking, and a variety of amenities including indoor pool and fitness center. Start your day with our hot breakfast and end it with our evening social hours. You're not just booking a room, you're choosing an experience of relaxation and convenience. Choose Drury Inn & Suites - your home away from home. 

Drury Inn & Suites Grand Rapids

Located in Grand Rapids, Drury Inn & Suites Grand Rapids is within a 15-minute drive of Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park and Van Andel Arena.  This hotel is 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Patterson Ice Center and 1 mi (1.6 km) from MSA Fieldhouse.

Experience genuine comfort and outstanding hospitality at the Holiday Inn Express Grand Rapids SW. Nestled in the charming Grandville, Michigan, this IHG hotel is ideally located for both business and leisure travelers. With fantastic amenities like free high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24/7 fitness center, and complimentary breakfast, your stay is sure to be comfortable and hassle-free. Our rooms offer a clean, modern environment for relaxation after a day of travel or sightseeing. Book your stay today at Holiday Inn Express Grand Rapids SW and uncover the best of Michigan hospitality! 

Holiday Inn Express Grand Rapids SW, an IHG Hotel

Discover a delightful blend of comfort, convenience, and excellent service at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Rapids - Airport North, an IHG Hotel. Located just a short drive from Grand Rapids International Airport, it is the ideal choice for business and leisure travelers. Lavish in spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, dive into the indoor pool, or sweat it out in the 24/7 fitness center. Enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast daily and utilize our free airport shuttle service. Experience the best of Grand Rapids with an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options nearby. Elegance and value collide at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Rapids - Airport North. 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Rapids - Airport North, an IHG Hotel

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Candlewood Suites Grand Rapids Airport, an IHG Hotel. Ideally situated at 5401 28th St Ct SE, our all-suite hotel positions you just minutes from Gerald R. Ford International Airport, ensuring your travels start and end with ease. Whether you're visiting Grand Rapids for business or leisure, our spacious suites equipped with full kitchens provide the ultimate home-away-from-home experience. Stay connected with complimentary high-speed internet, relax in our cozy beds after a long day, or keep up with your workout routine in our 24-hour fitness center. Plus, with our Candlewood Cupboard, you can grab a snack or forgotten travel essentials any time. At Candlewood Suites Grand Rapids Airport, we're committed to making your stay as effortless and enjoyable as possible. Experience the comfort and convenience that awaits you. 

Candlewood Suites Grand Rapids Airport, an IHG Hotel

Experience the comfort and convenience of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Rapids South - Wyoming, an IHG Hotel. Ideally located at 5870 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, MI, our hotel provides easy access to Grand Rapids' top attractions and businesses. Relax in our spacious, well-appointed rooms and enjoy amenities like our indoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary hot breakfast. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, Holiday Inn Express & Suites is your perfect home away from home in the Grand Rapids South area. Quick check-ins, friendly staff, and top-notch service make every stay memorable. Book your room today and experience the unbeatable value of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Rapids South - Wyoming. 

Michigan Author Series - Colleen Alles

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