Family roots planted in Kent County fruit farming 150 years ago
Executive Chef Glenn Forgie welcomes Reds on the River's new manager, Lance Climie.
In the restaurant industry, timing is everything. Just ask Reds on the River Executive Chef Glenn Forgie. Forgie recently announced that Lance Climie, CCM, will be joining Reds on August 9 as Reds’ front-of-the-house manager. Climie’s arrival could not be better timed. On August 11, Reds will celebrate its fifth anniversary.
Climie’s more than 25 years of experience and management expertise “will take Reds to the next level ,” according to Forgie. “He knows food, wine, and how to deliver exceptional service. We are so excited to have him on board.”
Climie will oversee front-of-the-house operations, ensuring the service and facilities exceed guests’ expectations. “To become a part of this exceptional restaurant with its sophisticated and casual welcoming style, wonderful ‘from scratch’ cuisine and one of the finest wine lists in Michigan—well, I can’t wait!” commented Climie. “To be able to partner with a Chef of Glenn Forgie’s caliber and work in the spectacular setting that is Reds on the River in downtown Rockford seems like a dream come true. West Michigan has always been home to me and I am so excited to be back.”
Climie’s family traces its roots to the Rockford area back to the mid 1800s. The original Braman farm is now known as Robinette’s Apple House, built by Climie’s great great-grandfather Harvey Braman. Climie’s grandfather, Russell Braman, operated his fruit farm on the corner of Hoag and 4 Mile Road. His grandfather also helped found Northview Public Schools as an alternative to either Rockford—where his mother, Mary Braman, is an alumni—or Creston in the 1950s.
Climie’s family is all in the Plainfield Township, Greenville, Belding and Metro Grand Rapids area and is proud to return to the area that his family has been part of for 150 years. He and his wife enjoy spending time with their two grown sons and volunteering with various organizations. He loves to ski, golf and fly fish on the Rogue River.
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