Contributors

Adrienne Wallace, an enthusiastic communicator with extensive public and private sector experience, is an Assistant Professor at Grand Valley State University, a social-change leader, Grand Rapids Westsider, wife to tech/PR geek Derek DeVries, and mother to rescue pups Walter and Rosie.

Allison Kay Bannister, a West Michigan resident since 1987, professional writer since 2002 and GVSU alumna, recently launched her own freelance writing business. Allison enjoys travel, art, dance, food and exploring world cultures—and, of course, writing about all these and more.

April Simone Stevens is a Grand Valley State University alumna and beauty blogger who enjoys dabbling in graphic design and video production. Residing outside of Grand Rapids, April Simone enjoys beer tasting, delicious food and visiting Grand rapids Art Museum as often as possible. Follow her on Instagram at @spotlightvanity for updates.

When she's not writing, sailing or buried in a good book, Jennifer Reynolds teaches at GRCC and Jenison International Academy. Transplanted from the Petoskey area to Holland in 2012, she is a big fan of the latter's farmers market and bike paths. She also enjoys kayaking, yoga and puttering in her kitchen and garden.

Kim Bode is a business owner, dog lover, wine drinker, coffee addict and blogger. Her 8THIRTYFOUR Integrated Communications in Grand Rapids is an award-winning communication strategy, event planning, social media, media relationship and design firm that is redefining how agencies do business. Contact her at [email protected].

Kirsetin Morello is a Michigan-based author, speaker, writer, travel-lover, wife and grateful mom of three boys. Read more about her at www.KirsetinMorello.com.

Missy Black, who lives in the Grand Rapids area, specializes in fashion, her love of which keeps her awake at night, dreaming of cheetah-print flats paired with red skinny jeans and anything lace. She has also written horoscopes and restaurant reviews, and enjoys another title as shoe copywriter.

Neil P. Jansen, an attorney at Mika Meyers, focuses in civil and real estate litigation, probate litigation, estate planning and eminent domain. He received his bachelor’s degree in political science and international studies from Michigan State University and his law degree from Wayne State University. He is a member of the Grand Rapids and State of Michigan Bar Associations, the American Bar Association and the National Order of Barristers, and is a Camp Blodgett board member.

Culinary educator, food writer, sommelier, chef, gentleman adventurer: Torrence O’Haire creates rich experiences and richer meals, exploring every side of hospitality. Through writing, consulting, events design and media he shares culinary inspiration and education, and encourages finding more passionate living through gustatory enrichment. Follow him at bacchanology.com or instagram.com/bacchanology.