Following breakout Netflix success, Nate Bargatze turns to his family for even bigger laughs

Enter the world of Blake Webber. 

Seemingly born on the Internet just over five years ago, the self-proclaimed “vape god” emerged out of a cloud of smoke on Instagram. Then known as Blake Vapes, his early posts included a “documentary” where he boasts about his vaping skills and lifestyle, frequently blowing plumes from his e-cigarette while espousing his equally lofty mantras in a voice somewhere between South Park’s Eric Cartman and your average frat bro.

A brand new comedy venue is opening its doors this month to showcase some of the best talent in Grand Rapids, as well as provide education to up-and-coming comics and performers. 

Stand-up comic Janelle James credits one thing above all else for the start of her comedy career: classic Midwestern boredom.