Every once in a while, we get an opportunity to take part in a cultural event here in the city. It's all the more special when someone we know and love is involved in it.

Dr. James Sawyer is one of the High School Band Directors here in town. He's also one of the nicest guys you'd ever want to meet. And he plays some mean Jazz.

Tonight, he was playing with the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra down at the Zoo. And we got to go see him!  It was an awesome show. We didn't even mind the mosquitoes so much (although one wonders if they were there for the jazz or for the 'refreshments').

They had an amazing singer, too. Edye Evans Hyde is her name, and she lit up the evening with some soulful renditions of some jazz classics.