Comstock Park, Michigan, offers residents and visitors alike a refreshing blend of community spirit and serene natural beauty. Located just a stone's throw from bustling Grand Rapids, this quaint town has carved out its unique identity, making it an inviting destination for all ages.
Comstock Park's lively sense of community is palpable whether you’re catching a baseball game at Fifth Third Ballpark, home of the West Michigan Whitecaps, or strolling through
the local farmers’ market. The area's rich heritage and vibrant local scene provide an array of events, bringing neighbors together while preserving small-town warmth and charm.
Nature lovers will delight in the town’s commitment to the outdoors. The picturesque White Pine Trail State Park offers miles of scenic trails for cycling, jogging, or a casual walk, allowing people to immerse themselves in the changing views of Michigan’s stunning landscapes. Additionally, the
Discover the Charms of Comstock Park,
4 | HelloComstock Park, Michigan • Fall Issue
Hello Comstock Park, Michigan • Fall Issue |5
tranquil banks of the Grand River offer perfect spots for fishing or enjoying a peaceful afternoon.
Comstock Park's proximity to Grand Rapids ensures that all the conveniences and cultural attractions of city life are never far away, yet it retains its own peaceful and friendly aura. Whether you're looking for a close-knit community, outdoor adventures, or a serene place to call home, Comstock Park...
Discover the Charms of Comstock Park,
Discover the Charms of Comstock Park, Michigan!
Comstock Park, Michigan, offers residents and visitors alike a refreshing blend of community spirit and serene natural beauty. Located just a stone's throw from bustling Grand Rapids, this quaint town has carved out its unique identity, making it an inviting destination for all ages.
Comstock Park's lively sense of community is palpable whether you’re catching a baseball game at Fifth Third Ballpark, home of the West Michigan Whitecaps, or strolling through the local farmers’ market. The area's rich heritage and vibrant local scene provide an array of events, bringing neighbors together while preserving small-town warmth and charm.
Nature lovers will delight in the town’s commitment to the outdoors. The picturesque White Pine Trail State Park offers miles of scenic trails for cycling, jogging, or a casual walk, allowing people to immerse themselves in the changing views of Michigan’s stunning landscapes. Additionally, the tranquil banks of the Grand River offer perfect spots for fishing or enjoying a peaceful afternoon.
Comstock Park's proximity to Grand Rapids ensures that all the conveniences and cultural attractions of city life are never far away, yet it retains its own peaceful and friendly aura. Whether you're looking for a close-knit community, outdoor adventures, or a serene place to call home, Comstock Park promises a warm welcome and endless opportunities to thrive.
Beyond the Booking: How to Choose the Right Venue for Your Team-Building Event
Selecting the right venue is one of the most important steps in planning a successful team-building event. While the activities you choose are critical, the setting in which those activities take place can either enhance or limit the experience. A thoughtful venue choice can help participants feel more
engaged, comfortable, and ready to collaborate.The first consideration is the type of activities that best fit your team’s goals. Some companies are looking to encourage communication and strategy, while others want to build trust or relieve stress. Venues that specialize in mission-based games,
6 | HelloComstock Park, Michigan • Fall Issue
Beyond the Booking: How to Choose the Right Venue for Your Team-Building Event
Selecting the right venue is one of the most important steps in planning a successful team-building event. While the activities you choose are critical, the setting in which those activities take place can either enhance or limit the experience. A thoughtful venue choice can help participants feel more engaged, comfortable, and ready to collaborate. The first consideration is the type of activities that best fit your team’s goals. Some companies are looking to encourage communication and strategy, while others want to build trust or relieve stress. Venues that specialize in mission-based games, such as laser tag or archery tag, naturally create scenarios where groups must work together to achieve a goal. These kinds of experiences provide a level of excitement that traditional conference rooms or banquet halls cannot match. Size and flexibility are also key. Teams come in many shapes and numbers, and a good venue should be able to accommodate a range of group sizes without losing the sense of connection. Large arenas are ideal for big groups, while more intimate setups may suit smaller departments. Mobile options are becoming increasingly popular as well, bringing activities directly to offices, parks, or rented spaces. This flexibility makes it easier for companies to include everyone, even those who might not be able to travel far. Another factor to weigh is the support offered by the venue itself. A strong event staff can make the difference between a smooth, enjoyable experience and one that feels disorganized. Staff who are experienced in running team-building events know how to manage group dynamics, explain game rules clearly, and ensure that everyone feels included. Their presence helps take pressure off company organizers, allowing them to participate fully instead of worrying about logistics. Safety is a priority in any team-building activity, especially when physical games are involved. Whether the activity is axe throwing, archery tag, or laser tag, participants should feel confident that the event is being managed with their well-being in mind. Venues that emphasize safety training and equipment checks create a more relaxed environment, letting teams focus on the activity rather than potential risks. Customization is another important element. Every group has its own culture, energy level, and objectives. The best venues recognize this and provide packages that can be adapted. Some companies may want shorter sessions that can be integrated into a day of meetings, while others may prefer multi-hour events with food and social time included. Having choices allows organizers to shape the day in a way that best supports their people. Location also plays a part in the decision. A venue that is accessible to most participants can improve attendance and reduce travel stress. Parking, proximity to public transportation, and nearby amenities like restaurants or hotels all influence how smoothly the day runs. A well-chosen venue will strike a balance between convenience and the unique experience it offers. Atmosphere matters as well. The environment sets the tone for the event. A dark conference center with minimal décor may not inspire much energy, while a lively, purpose-built space encourages excitement. The right venue should feel different enough from daily work life to spark creativity, but comfortable enough that participants feel at ease. This balance helps people step out of their routines and engage more openly with each other. Evaluating past experiences can also help guide the choice. Teams that have attended the same type of outing multiple times may crave something new, while those new to team-building events might prefer an accessible starting point. Venues that offer a mix of activities allow organizers to revisit the same location without the experience feeling repetitive. In the end, the right venue is not just a backdrop but an active contributor to the success of the event. It influences participation, energy, and the memories that people carry forward. Companies that invest in choosing a setting that aligns with their goals often see stronger outcomes, from improved communication to a renewed sense of unity among their staff. The right venue transforms team building from an obligation into an experience people genuinely remember. When planning your next team-building event, consider not only what activities you want but where and how those activities will unfold. The venue provides the stage, and with the right choice, the performance can leave a lasting impression on everyone involved.
Jenny Lashuay
venue should be able to accommodate a range of group sizes without losing the sense of connection. Large arenas are ideal for big groups, while more intimate setups may suit smaller departments. Mobile options are becoming increasingly popular as well, bringing activities directly to offices, parks, or rented spaces. This flexibility makes it easier for companies to include everyone, even those who might not be able to travel far.Another factor to weigh is the support offered by the venue itself. A strong event staff can make the difference between a smooth, enjoyable experience and one that feels disorganized. Staff who are...
such as laser tag or archery tag, naturally create scenarios where groups must work together to achieve a goal. These kinds of experiences provide a level of excitement that traditional conference rooms or banquet halls cannot match.Size and flexibility are also key. Teams come in many shapes and numbers, and a good
The right venue transforms team building from an obligation into an experience people genuinely remember.
About the Author
Jenny Lashuay is the owner of The Event Center at BGR in Grand Rapids, a venue that combines interactive entertainment with professional event services. Building on the success of BattleGR, she created a space where weddings, corporate events, and celebrations of all kinds become memorable experiences.
HelloComstock Park, Michigan • Fall Issue |7
Park, Michigan
Imagine a place where community spirit and scenic beauty go hand in hand. Welcome to Comstock Park, Michigan! Just a stone’s throw from Grand Rapids, this town offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and vibrant suburban life. Families, professionals, and retirees alike are drawn to its warm, neighborly feel and the sense of belonging that comes with it.
Nature lovers rejoice with the ample opportunities for outdoor adventures just waiting to be discovered. The majestic Grand River meanders through the area, providing picturesque settings for picnics and kayaking. Walkers and bicyclists adore the White Pine Trail, a haven for those who enjoy sweeping views and fresh air. The presence of lush parks and green spaces makes Comstock Park a tranquil oasis for leisurely strolls and family outings.
Adding to the community's vibrant pulse is Fifth Third Ballpark, home to the West Michigan Whitecaps. This hub of excitement brings families and friends together to savor the thrill of the game and enjoy America's favorite pastime. The local calendar is peppered with lively events and festive gatherings, offering endless avenues for connection and celebration.
In Comstock Park, the tapestry of life is enriched by friendly fa...
Discover the Charm of Community Living in Comstock
8 | HelloComstock Park, Michigan • Fall Issue
Discover the Charm of Community Living in Comstock Park, Michigan
Imagine a place where community spirit and scenic beauty go hand in hand. Welcome to Comstock Park, Michigan! Just a stone’s throw from Grand Rapids, this town offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and vibrant suburban life. Families, professionals, and retirees alike are drawn to its warm, neighborly feel and the sense of belonging that comes with it.
Nature lovers rejoice with the ample opportunities for outdoor adventures just waiting to be discovered. The majestic Grand River meanders through the area, providing picturesque settings for picnics and kayaking. Walkers and bicyclists adore the White Pine Trail, a haven for those who enjoy sweeping views and fresh air. The presence of lush parks and green spaces makes Comstock Park a tranquil oasis for leisurely strolls and family outings.
Adding to the community's vibrant pulse is Fifth Third Ballpark, home to the West Michigan Whitecaps. This hub of excitement brings families and friends together to savor the thrill of the game and enjoy America's favorite pastime. The local calendar is peppered with lively events and festive gatherings, offering endless avenues for connection and celebration.
In Comstock Park, the tapestry of life is enriched by friendly faces and boundless opportunities for adventure. It's not just a place to live; it's a community to thrive in and call home.
Hello Comstock Park, Michigan • Fall Issue |9
Discover the Charm of Community Living in Comstock