All posts by Joanne

Anchor It! Secure Furniture and TVs to Protect Children

Area Education, Community Health, , ,


For every parent and household with young children, we have a message for you: one child dies every two weeks and a child goes to an emergency room every 24 minutes because a TV, furniture, or a combination of both tips over and falls onto them.

Children are natural explorers, and to them, the home is meant to be explored. As young children begin to crawl and walk, and test their abilities to climb, reach and accomplish things on their own, deadly hidden dangers are revealed. A recent Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) study has uncovered some harrowing data:

  • There are an estimated 38,000 emergency-department treading injuries related to a TV and furniture tip-over incidents every year
  • 81 percent of all tip-over incidents occur at home
  • And even more tragic, of all furniture and TV tip-over fatalities, 65% involve children younger than five.

With these statistics in mind, CPSC has launched the Anchor It! Campaign, a nationwide public education effort aimed at stopping child deaths and injuries that result from furniture and TV tip-overs. The goal of the campaign is to prevent these incidents by educating parents and caregivers with young children about the simple, low-cost steps to secure the furniture and TVs in their home.

“Unsecured furniture and TVs in homes with little ones who love to climb creates a dangerous tip-over scenario,” said CPSC Commissioners Marietta Robinson and Joseph Mohorovic. “We’ve launched the Anchor It! Campaign to give parents the facts on how to safely and simply anchor their TVs and furniture so we can stop these preventable tragedies.”

Advocates say tip-over incidents are almost entirely preventable, with more awareness and action.

“Prior to my son, Shane’s, death as a result of a tip-over incident, I did not know furniture and television tip-over deaths and injuries were an all-too-common occurrence in this country,” said Lisa Siefert, Founder of Shane’s Foundation. “Each of these incidents can be prevented with an increased awareness about the danger and the installation of low-cost anchoring devices.”

One of the contributing factors to electronics tip-overs relates to the purchase of new flat screen TVs. When consumers move older, and often times heavier, box-shaped TVs into a child’s bedroom or a family room, it is often placed on unstable furniture that is not intended for the size or weight of the TV – a place that can pose a great danger to children.

While a falling flat-screen TV can seriously injure or kill a child, a CPSC report indicates that older CRT TVs have the potential to strike a child with a force six times greater than a flat screen the same size. Thus, it is particularly critical that older TVs be secured so they do not tip over. Older TVs no longer in use should be recycled in an environmentally safe manner.

“When we see these statistics of child ER visits related to tip-over incidents, we know that we must take action now,” said Robinson and Mohorovic. “CPSC’s new Anchor It! Campaign is a call-to-action for parents and caregivers. We urge you to get on top of it, before the children do.”

The public education campaign will target parents, retailers, and the media. Public service advertising materials will be distributed in English and Spanish to broadcast TV stations, cable TV stations and to shopping malls, airports, and transit systems nationwide.

The campaign encourages the public to visit www.AnchorIt.gov, learn about the dangers and then take the necessary steps to eliminate the hazard in the home.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport Records Busiest Month in Airport History

Local Business, Our Cities,

New Record Airport pictureJuly 2015 was the single busiest month in Gerald R. Ford International (GFIA) Airport history.

July passenger numbers were up 9.4% year-over-year; resulting in the busiest July ever, and breaking an all-time monthly record from March 2015. It goes down as the busiest July on record, surpassing July 2011 by nearly 6%.

“Month after month our numbers are increasing, and we could not be more thrilled by the support from our area passengers,” said GFIA Executive Director Brian Ryks.

“As a result of this growth, our airline partners are taking interest by investing in more seats through the introduction of larger aircraft and additional nonstop routes to and from Grand Rapids, which is good for our entire region.”

GFIA is on pace to break its annual passenger total, already 9.6% ahead of passenger totals from 2015.

March 2015 was previously the busiest month in GFIA history with 231,138 total passengers. July 2015 234,282 total passengers passed through GFIA.

Doug Small, President and CEO of Experience Grand Rapids, said that it was also the best performing hotel month.

Best of the Breweries in West Michigan: Northern Michigan

Beer, Local Business, , ,

Beer3This three part series will go over the different breweries throughout West Michigan. Part three ventures forth and takes us to Northern Michigan. Try out all the breweries and see why West Michigan is the beer capital of the United States! Be sure to check out parts one and two on Southern and Central Michigan.

The market for craft beer has been steadily increasing for well over a decade, and West Michigan is home to a plethora of fantastic breweries and each has a unique lineup of their signature craft beers. Having beer brewed so close to home gives West Michigan the luxury of drinking fresh and local.

So what is craft beer? According to the Brewers Association, craft beer is three things: small, independent, and local. These breweries are small in the sense that they make less than 6 million barrels of beer annually. They are independent if less than 25 percent of the company is owned by an alcohol industry member that is not a craft brewer and traditional if the majority of total beverage alcohol volume in the brews are traditional or innovative ingredients or fermentation methods.

What does West Michigan have to offer? Craft beer is brewed all over West Michigan. Make sure to check out one or all of these great breweries on the north end of town!

Northern Michigan Breweries

BreweryTerraFirmaBrewery Terra Firma

Brewery Terra Firma, is located on the historic 10-acre Dracka Farm just south of the Grand Traverse Mall. Brewmaster John Niedermaier grows most of the hops, herbs, fruits, vegetables, and honey that flavor his beers and ales.

Fun Fact: Brewery Terra Firma was Traverse City’s first “farm-to-mug” brewery when it opened in May of 2013.

JollyPumpkinJolly Pumpkin Restaurant, Brewery & Distillery

Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant, Brewery & Distillery combines a brewery and small batch distillery to produce most of beers and all of the spirits served on premise. They are located on historic Old Mission Peninsula’s West Bay in a 19th century mansion.

Fun Fact: Don’t miss the artisan pizzas, unique sandwiches, house smoked ribs, and local fish at the restaurant when you visit this brewery/distillery combination!

Shorts BrewingShort’s Brewing Company

Short’s Brewing Company is located near Shanty Creek Resorts in the village of Bellaire. Short’s has some of the most imaginative and adventurous brews on the market, from down-to-earth brews like Locals Light and Bellaire Brown to the intensely hopped Huma Lupa Licious.

Fun Fact: Short’s Brewing Company prides themselves on being a Michigan Only brewery distributing only in Michigan to ensure their investment in their local community!

LakeCharlevoixThe Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company

Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company brews 8 flagship beers, with names hailing from iconic Northern Michigan sights, using the best water in the world from the Great Lakes. They also brew several seasonal and experimental beers for their guests to enjoy.

Fun Fact: The brewery is located in the former storage area for the 180 foot US Coast Guard vessel named the Acacia.

StormcloudbrewingStormcloud Brewing Company

Stormcloud Brewing Company is a northern Michigan brewery crafting Belgian inspired beer and locally inspired food. They are located only two blocks from Lake Michigan in downtown Frankfort.

Fun Fact: Stormcloud Brewing Co. loves giving back to the community! Every month during the summer season and quarterly thereafter, they select one charitable organization that they believe is making a difference in northern Michigan to share its message with their Stormcloud network.

Michigan BrewVine

The Michigan BrewVine Passport is the best way to experience local wineries and breweries in Northern Michigan. 9&10 News and local businesses have teamed up to create this amazing passport that is full of deals. Each passport is valid for ONE person and costs just $25. This passport will give you access to 17 wineries and 16 breweries, each one offering unique deals and discounts.

Fun Fact: The Michigan BrewVine Passport is valid for the entire year so that you can relax and enjoy each location at your own pace.

‘Through Every Sense of the Word’ Garden Will Help Youngsters

Area Education, , ,
Hamilton Sensory Garden
Hamilton Early Childhood Center student walks a path of mulch, rocks and logs (courtesy photo)

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

Hamilton Early Childhood Elementary Center special education teachers Julie Gaines and Sue Farnham recognize when their preschoolers are overwhelmed, need a break or could simply benefit from time outdoors.

Now they have a place to bring their youngsters. Many have sensory processing issues and find relief in listening to the soft music of wind chimes, sinking their bare toes into sand, smelling lavender, touching shiny rocks and feeling the breeze or sunshine. They can blow bubbles or check out a colorful peace pole, and the state of tranquility and moments of freedom work wonders, the educators say.

Hamilton staff and custodians recently transformed a small school courtyard into a sensory garden, offering a calming place where students can roam, develop a host of skills and use their five senses in ways they are comfortable.

“It’s a great place for them to safely explore,” Gaines said. “They get to make the decision about what to do out there. There are a lot of things to touch… sand is very popular. When our students have been working hard on a focused activity and they’ve concentrated hard, they might need a break.”

Using his sense of smell, a student sniffs a perennial flower
Using his sense of smell, a student sniffs a perennial flower

But it goes beyond needing recess time. Children with sensory processing issues inappropriately interpret or organize information taken in by the five senses. For example, an everyday sound such as the hum of a fan that would hardly be noticed by most, might be highly irritating to someone with sensory processing issues; or the feel of clothing might be offensive. A person with sensory challenges might also crave sensory input and want to touch everything, or push heavy objects, or to hear a particular sound repeatedly.

“Our sensory garden offers our children a variety of sights, sounds, textures, smells and experiences that they can explore at their own pace and according to their comfort level,” Gaines said. “The natural light and open space is less irritating than an indoor room might be for them. And of course the beauty of nature, fresh air and sunshine is healthy for the staff too.”

The garden contains a variety of plants hardy enough for curious students to touch
The garden contains a variety of plants hardy enough for curious students to touch

An Outdoor Extension

Hamilton has had an indoor sensory room — with swings, a ball pit, bicycles and other items — since it opened four years ago. Along with break-time for overly stimulated students, it’s also used for gross and fine motor-skill development by occupational and physical therapists. The room abuts the sensory garden.

Hamilton houses Kentwood Public Schools’ preschool programs, a Bright Beginnings Program for infants to 3-year-olds and the district’s special-education early childhood program. All students will use the garden at some point, with special education classes using it the most, said Lori Eaton, the center’s director.

The garden provides hands-on learning. Students can touch plants, watch ants do their busy work in an ant farm, and walk a path made from rocks, mulch and logs.

There's room for play in the garden too
There’s room for play in the garden too

“It’s going to be amazing,” Eaton said. “Through every sense of the word, they can learn so much out there.”

Farnham, also a speech pathologist, has already used the garden for summer school to meet sensory needs as well as help with motor skill development, language development and communication.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

WKTV Kicks Off Digital Cinema Guild

WKTV Projects, ,

colleen_piersonAre you interested in developing skills as a digital cinematographer? Are you a filmmaker who would like access to WKTV’s extensive equipment inventory? Join the WKTV Cinema Guild!

Tom Norton, President of WKTV is more than passionate about the formation of the guild.

“The Digital Cinema Guild is going to be a huge asset to film makers.  The pedigree WKTV has as instructors and the caliber of pro gear is the perfect blend.  WKTV truly believes this is a logical step in building stronger, more creative and more vibrant use of community media.  Films, be they documentaries or narrative shorts and features are a powerful voice in any community.  We want everyone to have those tools to make their messages and stories a reality,” he explained.

WKTV invites area residents to discover the possibilities at a kick-off event on September 22 at 7 p.m. The kick-off event will be held at the studio at 5261 Clyde Park Ave. SW, Wyoming, MI 49509. The even will showcase the Cinema Guild’s:Digital Cinema - Black Magic

  • Onsite Workshops
  • Online Explorations
  • Opportunities for Screening Your Work

The People

WKTV has engaged two of the area’s most experienced filmmakers to facilitate its Digital Cinema Guild.

  • Barbara Roos, founder of Grand Valley State University’s Film & Video Program, brings more than 40 years’ experience as a scriptwriter, film maker, and professor of film. She joined academia from an award-winning career in public broadcasting, both television and radio.
  • Girbe Eefsting has spent an equal number of years producing films for advertising agencies, corporations, governmental agencies, NGOs and NPOs, including ten years with Grand Rapids Community Media Center. In 1996, Girbe founded the Grand Valley Summer Film Program. In 2010, he founded Film Farm, a company specializing in media production, education and preservation.

Edit Suite“The Digital Cinema Guild becomes part of the explosive nationwide growth of innovative production approaches incorporating digital technologies,” Eefsting explains.

Prof. Roos reminds us that media production efforts in the real world as well as in classroom depends on cooperating communities, and welcomes WKTV’s effort to broaden the depth and the scope of our west Michigan community by way of the opportunities offered by membership in the DCG.

“Producing media makes us all life-long learners,” Roos notes.  “And at the same time we are all life long teachers.”  Current growth in the role of  digital media – by international institutions on the one hand and by first-time digital camera individual users  on the other – makes The Digital Cinema Guild a hot topic!”

The Program

  • Online Workshops: Under the direction of successful digital film experts, Digital Cinema Guild members can take part in ongoing, weekly workshops at three levels: 1) Pre production & Script writing; 2) Production: and 3) Post-production, marketing and distribution
  • Online Explorations: Guild members can access web-based information modules that share additional skills and information. Members will also be able to mentor each other through an online Digital Cinema Guild Forum.
  • Opportunities for Screening Work: WKTV’s organizational goal for the Guild is to have more programming to broadcast on its public access television station.

For information, visit www.WKTV.org or call 616-261-5700

Grand Rapids Civic Theater Opens Their New Season in September

Local Entertainment, Our Cities,

Civic TheaterGrand Rapids Civic Theater is opening their 2015/16 season on September 11th and will run through June 19th. The youth plays will finish up the season on August 7th. Make sure to check out the full line-up of plays and plan your schedule accordingly! You won’t want to miss what the Grand Rapids Civic Theater has to offer!

GatsbyThe Great Gatsby – September 11 – September 27

A stage play, adapted by Simon Levy, with exclusive approval from the Fitzgerald Estate. Based on the F. Scott Fitzgerald novel of the same name, this play brings to life an honest and powerful rendition of the quest for the American Dream during the Roaring Twenties. Jay Gatsby, a young and mysterious character is consumed by his passion and obsession with a beautiful former debutante, Daisy Buchanan.  Driven to recreate himself as something magnificent and the belief that fiction can be willed truth, Gatsby becomes entangled in a web of deception that will cost him the ultimate sacrifice. Buy Tickets.

SleepyHollowSleepy Hollow a Musical Tale – October 23 – November 1

A new musical version of the classic Washington Irving story, this updated spin begins in the present day on Halloween night as three modern-day children find themselves thrust into the mysterious village of Sleepy Hollow, in Colonial New England. The children encounter a slew of colorful characters, and even a confrontation with the infamous Headless Horseman himself.  As the children sing and dance their way through the world of the 18th century they find the origins for traditions that are celebrated today as they unveil the haunting allure of the Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Buy Tickets.

ChristmasStoryA Christmas Story, The Musical – November 20 – December 20

Civic Theatre has secured exclusive West Michigan rights for this seasonal delight just in time for the Holidays.  Ralphie Parker only wants one thing for Christmas: an Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action 200 shot Range Model Air Rifle (with a compass in the stock and this thing which tells time) and he is on a quest to make sure this gift ends up under his Christmas tree.

A Christmas Story, The Musical is recommended for children and adults, ages eight and older. For an even greater theatre experience, read the Jean Sheppard short story and follow that with a movie viewing! Buy Tickets.

BarefootinParkBarefoot in the Park – January 15 – January 31

Neil Simon, an American playwright and screenwriter has left his comedic footprint in the world of arts and culture. One of his shining stars is found in the 1963 stage play, Barefoot in the Park. Paul and Corie Bratter are newlyweds in every sense of the word. He is a straight-as-an-arrow lawyer and she is a free spirit always searching for the newest trend.  Team this relationship with an overpriced and under-performing New York apartment, a nosey mother-in-law, a zany neighbor and the result is some of Simon’s best work. Barefoot in the Park will bring laughter and warmth to the cold West Michigan January. Buy Tickets.

SisterActSister Act – The Musical – February 26 – March 20

After a successful Broadway tour, the Civic Theatre has been awarded the performance rights to this musical sensation. Original music by Tony and Oscar-winning composer, Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors) brings this comedic sensation to life.  Deloris VanCartier is a wanna-be diva who witnesses a crime. Her only chance of surviving is to go deep into hiding, in one of the most unlikely places The Holy Order of the Little Sisters of Our Mother of Perpetual Faith: a convent full of tone-deaf singing nuns. Buy Tickets.

frecklefaceFreckleface Strawberry – April 22 – May 1

This children’s musical is filled with entertainment and an important message for children of all ages.  This play comes straight from the pages of the New York Times Best Selling book, written by celebrated and award-winning actress, Julianne Moore. Freckleface Strawberry is just like every other girl, except she has bright red hair and something worse… FRECKLES! She will do anything to get rid of her freckles until her schoolmates help her learn a valuable lesson: everyone is different – and that’s what makes everyone special.

A children’s musical appropriate for children ages four and older. For an even greater theatre experience read the series of Freckleface Strawberry books written by Julianne Moore. Buy Tickets.

carolineorchangeCaroline,  Or Change – June 3 – June19

Race, rage and civil rights are at the heart of this deeply personal (semi-autobiographical) story by Tony Kushner (Pulitzer Prize for Angels in America).  This is the story of Caroline Thibodeaux, a divorced mother of four, middle-aged African-American maid who works for a Jewish family – the Gellmans – in (1963) Louisiana. Caroline, a woman resistant to change and conflict, finds herself in the middle of a Gellman family conflict and changes in the world around her. The nation is in the middle of conflict and change: Vietnam, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the Civil Rights Movement. Buy Tickets.

youthplaysSideways Stories from Wayside School – July 29 – August 7 – Youth Play

Welcome to Wayside, a thirty-story building with one classroom on each floor. The zany characters will take you on a bizarre classroom journey that promises to thrill and excite the entire family. Buy Tickets.

Into the Woods – July 29 – August 7 – Youth Musical

The Brothers Grimm hit the stage with an epic fairy tale about wishes, family and the choices we make. Buy Tickets.

Visit GRCT.org for more information!

Best of the Breweries in West Michigan: Central Michigan

Beer, Local Business, , ,

Founders 3This three part series will go over the different breweries throughout West Michigan. Part two takes us through Central Michigan. Try out all the breweries and see why West Michigan is the beer capital of the United States! If you missed part one, you can check it out here.

The market for craft beer has been steadily increasing for well over a decade, and West Michigan is home to a plethora of fantastic breweries and each has a unique lineup of their signature craft beers. Having beer brewed so close to home gives West Michigan the luxury of drinking fresh and local.

So what is craft beer? According to the Brewers Association, craft beer is three things: small, independent, and local. These breweries are small in the sense that they make less than 6 million barrels of beer annually. They are independent if less than 25 percent of the company is owned by an alcohol industry member that is not a craft brewer and traditional if the majority of total beverage alcohol volume in the brews are traditional or innovative ingredients or fermentation methods.

What does West Michigan have to offer? Craft beer is brewed all over West Michigan. Make sure to check out one or all of these great breweries near and around Grand Rapids!

Central Michigan Breweries

Founders 2Founders Brewing Company

Founders Brewing Company has built its brewery on the exploration of recipe development and brewing techniques. Carving a niche out of the craft industry, they have built their reputation on producing very unique beer and have been recognized by beer enthusiasts around the world.

Fun Fact: Founders has won six World Beer Cup medals, four European Beer Star medals, and three Great American Beer Festival medals across eight different beers.

BreweryVivantBrewery Vivant

Brewery Vivant is a fantastic East Hills Neighborhood microbrewery and pub located in a sustainably renovated historical chapel. They combine their passion for great beer and food, environmental sustainability, service, and a focus on community.

Fun Fact: Much of the inspiration behind Brewery Vivant comes from the small breweries that dot the countryside in Southern Belgium and Northern France.

Cellar-Brewing-CompanyCellar Brewing Company

Cellar Brewing Company is a Microbrewery, Winery and Distillery located in Sparta MI and provide their guests with a relaxed casual atmosphere. They have 16 beers on tap and always keep them filled for your consumption!

Fun Fact: Cellar Brewing Company’s Mug Club program gets your great discounts and you even get to drink out of your own mug every time you go in! Mugs are personalized with your name and number!

PerrinBrewingPerrin Brewing Company

Located in a small farming community just 10 miles north of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, Perrin Brewing Company isa microbrewery and taproom which strives to bring a world class experience to every person who walks through their doors.

Fun Fact: Perrin does a Yoga + Beer summer series! $5 at the door gets you one hour of yoga and a beer!

rockfordbrewingRockford Brewing Company

Rockford Brewing Company produces world class beers using traditional and innovative brewing techniques and ingredients. They strive to create unique beers with influences from countries around the world including the newest emerging craft beer location that has the world watching; Michigan.

Fun Fact: Rockford Brewing Co.’s flagship beer is Paradigm MPA, which is a Michigan Pale Ale produced with 100% Michigan grown ingredients!

newhollandNew Holland Brewing Company

New Holland Brewing Company’s deep roots in the craft industry go all the way back to 1997. Their beer and spirits are served alongside fresh-made food in their Restaurant & Pub in downtown Holland. Their beer-centric food menu complements all of their beers!

Fun Fact: Many of New Holland’s draught only specialties are brewed on their nine barrel pub system!

grandrapidsbrewingGrand Rapids Brewing Company

The beer Grand Rapids Brewing Company produces includes a recreation of the iconic Silver Foam, along with several other beers brewed to honor their Grand Rapids heritage, leaders, landmarks as well as their Grand Rapids Brewing Company family.

Fun Fact: Grand Rapids Brewing Co. is Michigan’s only USDA certified organic brewery.

GravelbottomGravel Bottom Craft Brewery & Supply

Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery & Supply was established in 2013 in Ada, Michigan. They have crossed the country with stacks of recipes kept in journals, sketched business plans on scrap paper, and enjoyed their evolving product along the way.

Fun Fact: Gravel Bottom offers a huge selection of the freshest brewing supplies and classes for every level. They’ll help you get started on your own brewing adventure!

ourbrewingcompanyOur Brewing Company

Our Brewing Company is a quaint craft brewery in Downtown Holland. They pride themselves on small batches, mad scientists, and neighbors on every stool. They’re always coming up with new and different beers like their Pickle Tickle Smash IPA and Pecan Pie Porter.

Fun Fact: Our Brewing Co. will have awesome live music the month of August including The Whiskey Charmers, Matt Plessner, Big Brother Jon, and Brotha James and they’re all free to attend!

jamesportJamesport Brewing Co.

Jamesport is brewpub that brews their own beer onsite, as well as having a full-service bar, a great wine list and an assortment of domestic beers. Their full dining menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches & burgers, lunch entrees, desserts, wraps, dinner entrees, pasta, a kids menu, and both hot & cold drinks.

Fun Fact: Hoppy Hour at Jamesport Brewing Co. is Monday-Friday, 4pm-6pm.

oldboysbrewhouseOld Boys’ Brewhouse

Located on the Shore of Spring Lake, Michigan, Old Boys’ Brewhouse was founded in 1997 with a commitment to their community, fresh beer, and fresh food. Whether you drop in for refreshment or nourishment or both, their fantastic staff will make sure to make your experience fun and enjoyable.

Fun Fact: Old Boys’ Brewhouse has a canine-oriented theme to the influence and memory of a Chocolate Labrador!

Best of the Breweries in West Michigan: Southern Michigan

Beer, Local Business, , ,

BeerThis three part series will go over the different breweries throughout West Michigan. Part one takes us through Southern Michigan. Try out all the breweries and see why West Michigan is the beer capital of the United States!

The market for craft beer has been steadily increasing for well over a decade, and West Michigan is home to a plethora of fantastic breweries and each has a unique lineup of their signature craft beers. Having beer brewed so close to home gives West Michigan the luxury of drinking fresh and local.

So what is craft beer? According to the Brewers Association, craft beer is three things: small, independent, and local. These breweries are small in the sense that they make less than 6 million barrels of beer annually. They are independent if less than 25 percent of the company is owned by an alcohol industry member that is not a craft brewer and traditional if the majority of total beverage alcohol volume in the brews are traditional or innovative ingredients or fermentation methods.

What does West Michigan have to offer? Craft beer is brewed all over West Michigan. Make sure to check out one or all of these great breweries on the south side!

Southern Michigan Breweries

saugatuck-brewing__companySaugatuck Brewing Co.

Saugatuck Brewing Co. is dedicated to the entire experience of craft; from their creative food menu to their unique beers. The adventure started with creating a perfect beer, and they have kept that focus since their opening in 2005 with 15 rotating taps plus hard cider and a variety of wines.

Fun Fact: Saugatuck Brewing Co. is the only microbrewery in the state of Michigan to feature a Brew On Premise System where you can go brew your own beer in about four hours! Return in two to three weeks to bottle and sample your own beer!

RoundBarnRound Barn Brewery

With more than 30 years of fermentation experience and an award-winning reputation in the industry, Round Barn Brewery’s line of hand-crafted brews embody the satisfying bold taste you’ve come to expect from The Round Barn.

Fun Fact: In addition to being a brewery, Round Barn also has their own winery and distillery!

darkhorseDark Horse Brewing Company

Dark Horse Brewing Company is located in Marshall, Michigan and takes pride in serving great food and great beer using only the highest quality ingredients. All of their breads is made fresh locally, utilizing their own spent grain.

Fun Fact: Dark Horse Brewing Co. has a wicked sense of humor! Don’t forget to look around the pub, read the six-pack and holder your beers come in, and even the back of your growler!

Bells-Brewing-Logo1Bell’s Brewery

Bell’s Brewery began in 1985 with a quest for better beer and a 15 gallon soup kettle. They currently brew over 20 beers for distribution as well as many other small batch beers that are served at their pub, the Eccentric Cafe in downtown Kalamazoo.

Fun Fact: On June 11, 1993, Bell’s Brewery became the first Michigan brewery to serve beer by the glass to the public.

Boatyard BrewingBoatyard Brewing Company

Boatyard Brewing Company is on a journey to create superb craft beers through the exploration of artistic fermentations while also making a positive impact on their community!

Fun Fact: Boatyard Brewing Company has discount nights for those who come in on two wheels! Come in Tuesdays on your motorcycle or Wednesdays on pedal bicycles to get your discount! Founders Dan and Brian have spent countless hours developing some of the best traditional ale recipes, as well as their own unique offerings!

Beerfest at the Ballpark Fall – On The Field

Beerfest at the Ballpark is scheduled for Saturday, September 19th at Cooley Law School Stadium. Festival gates will be open from 5pm-10pm with a special VIP entry starting at 4pm. The fall festival will be held on the Jackson Field and will provide attendees the opportunity to taste more than 200 craft beers, and ciders from over 50 Michigan Breweries while enjoying the ballpark’s atmosphere. The fall event will also include 50 different German and Belgian beers. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door and include entry, a logoed tasting glass, and 10 tasting tickets. Special VIP Tickets may be purchased for $40 in advance and include early entry to the festival at 4pm, a logoed tasting glass, and 15 tasting tickets.

Fun Fact: The fall event will also include 50 of the best German and Belgian beers so you do not want to miss this great festival!

Adventures at San Diego Comic-Con International: Hall H

Reviews, WKTV Projects, , , , , ,

Comic ConAs “your mission”, “the odds were in your favor”, you chose to return and experience Thursday at Comic-Con. As mentioned last time, Hall H is the Mecca of Comic-Con. It’s what makes the event so compelling. It took planning, persistence, and getting in line a couple hours early, but I was able to get into Hall H!

I arrived at the convention center around 8am knowing The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 was going to be the big event for the day inside Hall H.

We finally entered Hall H at 10am.

This was on the floor with the “Lionsgate” booth
This was on the floor with the “Lionsgate” booth

Before The Hunger Games presentation kicked off, a movie by the name of Rock the Kabash – starring Bill Murray, Bruce Willis and Kate Hudson – took center stage. The movie is based on a true story and focuses on a music manager on tour in Afghanistan. During his tour, he discovers a girl with a great voice.

We were shown the movie trailer first with a question and answer presentation immediately following. Bill Murray showed up in costume. Rock the Kabash will hit theaters on October 23, 2015

I was pretty lucky and grabbed a seat fairly close to the front in the first section of seating. That was just fine by me because I had a seat in Hall H, the hub of all major happenings.

From my seat, I had the opportunity to see Bill Murray walk in! When I turned around, he was right behind me. No more than 15 feet away!

Bill Murray in Rock the Kasbah at Comic-Con in Hall H.
Bill Murray in Rock the Kasbah at Comic-Con in Hall H.

Mitch Glazer, the writer for the movie, was also there with Bill Murray.

A few people from the audience were able to ask question at each presentation. In order to ask a question, you had to wait in line and your question was screened ahead of time.

Mitch Glazer and Bill Murray did a wonderful job answering the questions tossed their way. One of the best quotes from Mitch Glazer was “We are Rock ‘n‘ Roll.” Bill Murray commented, “If you’ve been back stage, you know the craziness of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”

One person asked, “where does Bill Murray fit into the Comic-Con world?” Bill Murray’s responded that “at first he didn’t know where he belonged in that world, but he does own a taser.”

When Bill Murray was finished making everyone laugh, they cleared the stage and got ready for The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2. They had a really neat introduction where you felt like a part of the District.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 top left: Jennifer Lawrence “Katniss Everdeen” top right: Josh Hutcherson “Peeta Mellark” bottom left: Liam Hemsworth “Gale Hawthorne” bottom right: Willow Shields “Primrose Everdeen"
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2
top left: Jennifer Lawrence “Katniss Everdeen” top right: Josh Hutcherson “Peeta Mellark” bottom left: Liam Hemsworth “Gale Hawthorne” bottom right: Willow Shields “Primrose Everdeen”

Four people were dressed in white uniforms like those from “District 13.” Then, throughout Hall H, more people in white uniforms poured out and marched toward the stage. Once they reached the stage, they left the hall and a message from “District 13” played across the screens for everyone to see. Following the message, the full trailer for The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 was played.

The Hunger Games question and answer presentation featured Director Francis Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth, Willow Shields, and Producer Nina Jacobson. This was one of my favorite presentations of the entire convention.

During the presentation, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth mentioned there was a great scene between the two of them while Katniss is asleep.

One of the questions asked was “What will you miss most?” (as this is the last installment). Josh Hutcherson answered, “You’re looking at it.” Hutcherson also said that he would miss “the big family and the great crew.”

Another question touched on what the fans would take away from the movie. Jennifer Lawrence answered, “The power of the future is in our hands.” Josh Hutcherson’s answer was “Hope and Empowerment.”

The cast was also asked if any of them could do the “mockingjay whistle” and, surprisingly, none of them could actually do the whistle!

Left: Jeffery Morris' Future Dude booth. Right: graphic novel of “Oceanus” I purchased
Left: Jeffery Morris’ Future Dude booth. Right: graphic novel of “Oceanus” I purchased

After the presentation for Mockingjay Part 2, I had the opportunity for two interviews that were not in Hall H. They were on the floor with two different vendors.

My first interview was Jeffery Morris, the CEO of Future Dude. I really enjoyed talking with him. Morris is the creator, art director, executive producer and publisher of his company. He is the creator of “parallel man” and his latest film Oceanus.

I sat down with Morris and talked with him for a few minutes. He made his first film when he was in eighth grade! I asked him what he thought his greatest accomplishment was. Morris responded, “It is Oceanus.”

Toys and lunchboxes from Entertainment Earth.
Toys and lunchboxes from Entertainment Earth.

On top of being talented, he is very observant. He noticed my nails; which I had painted like Star Wars. Since he loves science fiction, the conversation immediate transitioned to our mutual love for Star Wars. His favorite episode in the saga is The Empire Strikes Back.

My second interview was with a vendor called Entertainment Earth. They showed me their booth, which displayed tons of their toys.

Entertainment Earth has three categories of toys. The first are toys that are their own products. Truly original and not licensed. Their other two categories are licensed.

They sell lunch boxes, statues, bobble heads, and many more! When it comes to the comic giants, Marvel toys tend to be a bigger draw than DC toys. Right now, Game of Thrones items are their most popular products. They carry many others like Jurassic World, Back to the Future, The Joker, and Captain America. They also have their own plush line of toys.

Ashley Eckstine wearing two different outfits. White dress: is a Princess Leia from Star Wars. Black and red dress: designed after Black Widow from the Avengers.
Ashley Eckstine wearing two different outfits.

To finish off day one, I signed up to go to a Geek Couture Fashion Show put on by Her Universe and the famous Ashley Eckstein.

For those that do not know Ashley Eckstein, she plays the character “Ahsoka Tano” in the TV series Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

The fashion show was the only event I did attend that was not held at the convention center. It was held next door to the convention center at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel.

The first official day of Comic-Con was just as exciting as was anticipated. “Your mission, should you choose to accept it…” is to come back and see what I was able to experience on Friday. As a spoiler, I will mention Star Wars. “May the force be with you.”

Top left: Star Destroyer. Center: Death Star. Top right: Sailor Moon. Bottom left: Groot. Bottom right: is another geek couture outfit.
Top left: Star Destroyer. Center: Death Star. Top right: Sailor Moon. Bottom left: Groot. Bottom right: is another geek couture outfit.

Senators Cosponsor Resolution to Commemorate and Protect Social Security

Politics, ,


U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow announced today that they have cosponsored a resolution commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Social Security Act, which established the Social Security program that provides elderly and disabled Americans, and their spouses and children, with a financial safety net. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law on August 14, 1935.

US Senate Seal“Social Security has helped reduce poverty and provide financial security for millions of Americans, whether they are retirees leaving the workforce, disabled Americans who can no longer work or children whose parents have died,” said Senator Peters. “I’m honored to help celebrate the 80th anniversary of this essential safety net program, and I will continue working to protect and strengthen Social Security so that it can help support future generations of Americans, including our most vulnerable citizens.”

“Social Security has lifted a generation of senior citizens out of poverty and created economic security for millions of Americans,” said Senator Stabenow. “Americans have earned these benefits and should be able to count on them when they retire. As we celebrate this important anniversary, I am committed more than ever to continuing the fight to protect and strengthen this critical program for current and future retirees.”

Social Security offers two types of essential benefits—retirement benefits and disability benefits—that are earned by workers paying Social Security taxes on their wages. Nine out of ten Americans age 65 and older receive modest benefits that help provide financial security in retirement. The average retirement benefit is $1,300 per month and the average disability benefit is $1,200 per month. In 2014, more than 48 million Americans received retirement and survivors benefits, and 11 million received disability benefits. Michigan is home to more than 2 million beneficiaries.

The resolution urges Congress to protect and strengthen Social Security so it can continue delivering benefits that provide a safety net for workers and their families, and to ensure that the program remains solvent past its currently projected shortfall in 2034. To read the resolution, click here.

Recipe of the Week – Corn and Basil Pancakes

Community Health, Local Food, ,


Makes: Makes 5 servings, 2 cakes each

Active Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup white whole-wheat flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup low-fat milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 large ears; see Tip) or frozen
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

Directions

  1. Whisk flour, milk, eggs, 1 tablespoon oil, baking power, salt and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth. Stir in corn and basil.
  2. Brush a large nonstick skillet lightly with some of the remaining 1 tablespoon oil; heat over medium heat until hot (but not smoking). Cook 4 cakes at a time, using about 1/4 cup batter for each, making them about 3 inches wide.
  3. Cook until the edges are dry, about two minutes. Flip and cook until golden brown on the other side, 1 to 3 minutes more. Repeat with the remaining oil and batter, making 10 cakes total. Reduce the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

Tips and Notes

Tip: To cut kernels from the cob, stand an ear of corn on one end and slice the kernels off with a sharp knife.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 180 calories; 9 g fat (1 g sat, 5 g mono); 86 mg cholesterol; 21 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 7 g protein; 2 g fiber; 329 mg sodium; 250 mg potassium.

No-kill Cat Shelter Celebrates 10 years of Saving Lives!

Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , ,
Beazy
Photo Courtesy of Rebekah Dietsche

michele_smith-aversa10 years ago this month, Gina Marvin founded Focus On Ferals (FOF). 1 year ago this month, FOF moved into their new, and larger, Byron Center facility.

Two wonderful events to celebrate!

Starting out in 2005, Marvin provided Trap-Neuter-Return services (TNR consists of the humane trapping, sterilization, and return of feral cats to their familiar habitat) and cared for a handful of stray and sick cats in her garage. Since then, Marvin now has a crew of dedicated volunteers that help her oTessa Tito Atlasrganize and run the current multi-location program.

The TNR is done out of Lowell, the current adoption center is in Byron Center, there are foster families throughout West Michigan, and PetSmart in Grandville is currently featuring FOF cats!

Marvin routinely pulls cats from some of the “high-kill” shelters around West Michigan and places them into the program. These cats are listed as Shelter Pull Kitties on their adoption listing. When a Shelter Pull Kitty is adopted, Marvin is able to rescue another cat from one of those facilities. Cats in FOF’s program stay in residence for as long as it takes to get adopted –some just a few months, others for several years.

kittensRunning the program takes dedication, time, medicine, patience and of course, money. Come out on Sunday, August 23 and meet Marvin, her volunteers, see the facilities and meet all the kittens and cats that are waiting for their “forever families” to bring them to their “forever homes!”

Come, Celebrate 10 Years of Focus On Ferals No-Kill Cat Rescue and Adoption Center.

Sunday August 23, 2015 from 11:00am – 5:00pm

Focus on Ferals – 
7962 Clyde Park SW 
Byron Center MI 49315 (76th/Clyde Park, south of Spartan Warehouse Facility)

Raffle Baskets, Tour our Facility, Volunteer Opportunities, Refreshments and $50 Adoption Fee on any cat/kitten! ***Please bring a gift for our shelter kitties***

*You may remember the article Trash Bag Tabby. FOF is the shelter that took him in. He was adopted less than one month later.

YolandaFor more information:
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FocusOnFerals
website: http://www.focusonferals.org
Donations: http://www.focusonferals.org/donate/monthly-donations-focus-ferals-no-kill-shelter/

In Five…Four…Three…Two…One – “DreamWheels!” LIVE

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, WKTV Projects

If you’re wondering how to spend your nights this  weekend, WKTV has a suggestion and it’s free!DreamWheels LOGO

Bring some snacks and refreshments and come to the old Klingman’s parking lot either tonight between 8 and 10 p.m. or tomorrow afternoon between 4 and 6 p.m. to enjoy a classic car show like no other! WKTV presents two productions of “DreamWheels!” live as car collectors from four states showcase their rare autos on a red carpet. Here’s a last taste of what you’ll feast your eyes on during these shows.

A 1958 Buick King Chrome
A 1958 Buick King Chrome
A classy 1929 Invictera. Learn more about it tonight.
A classy 1929 Invictera. Learn more about it tonight.

 

 

 

 

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be a crosswalk between Rogers Plaza and the old Klingman’s for easy access. Best of all – admission is free!

Two Days away from Classic Carpalooza

Our Cities, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects

Looking at the big picture, a lot of communities coast to coast have car shows every summer. But only Wyoming and Kentwood have the 28th Street Metro Cruise for 11 years running – along with the only red carpet classic car show in the country thanks to WKTV Community Television and Media!DreamWheels LOGO

Okay, okay – if you think by now – after promoting this event for almost two weeks – we are blowing our horn here (no pun intended) well, we are. This year, the station’s production of this live two-hour show (called “DreamWheels!” if you’re new to this website) takes place both days of Metro Cruise.

Looking at the little picture, that’s a HUGE commitment of time, talent and love from our WKTV volunteers and staff. We’re proud to do it because we love a challenge, Metro Cruise, and serving the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood!

Show up tomorrow evening at WKTV’s outdoor studio in the old Klingman’s parking lot from 8 to 10 p.m. and be amazed at what’s happening in your hometown.

Huron Township resident Charlie Saganek stands with his 1937 Cord Phaeton at the recent Autorama in Detroit. Photos by Dave Chapman
Huron Township resident Charlie Saganek stands with his 1937 Cord Phaeton at the recent Autorama in Detroit. Photos by Dave Chapman
A 1942 Chrysler Woody Wagon
A 1942 Chrysler Woody Wagon

 

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. Best of all – admission is free!

Classic Cars and Renovations abound at Leadfoot Muscle Cars

Local Business, Local Faces, , , , ,

Leadfoot Showroommike_dewittWhat was once a night club, pumping the bass and serving drinks to thirsty patrons, is now a car showcase full of muscle and metal. Classic muscle cars and exotic Ferraris and Porsches fill a room teeming with energy. While the nightclub is no more, it’s impossible not to feel the thrill of rising heart rate upon entering, no loud music necessary.

The cars in the showcase are all road-ready. Some needed tweaking here and there, but they’re eagerly awaiting a driver – after all – cars are meant to be driven. Where they currently sit, it’s impossible to tell if any of them have had any work done. They’re all in tip-top shape and manicured to a ‘T’. The horses have all been stabled and primed, and now are ready to be unleashed!

Leadfoot Muscle Cars 2
A nightclub has been turned into a jaw-dropping showcase

Welcome to Leadfoot Muscle Cars, a classic car dealership located in Holland, with a little something for every car lover.

“It’s always fun working on these muscle cars. These are what I grew up with in high school, and now they’re classics!” Explains manager Marty Boysen, his passion revving up and hitting second gear. Before Leadfoot, Marty owned his own dealership in the 90’s. Some of his former employees came with him to Leadfoot when the dealership opened a little over a year ago.

For Marty and the rest of the crew at Leadfoot, to say cars are an important part of their life might be the understatement of the century – like saying the Titanic hit an ice-cube. Cars are so integral to their existence that if you cut them open, an engine might purr in place of a heart!

Leadfoot Muscle Cars 3
A warehouse full of classic cars awaiting renovation

Leadfoot started a little differently than most dealerships, with an initial purchase of an 80-car collection. Some were ready for sale while others needed a full renovation, which Leadfoot was more than happy to furnish in their full detail and body shop. A warehouse a mile down the road houses more classic beauties awaiting their renovations, in addition to those in the showroom.

In total, Leadfoot owns an astonishing 250 cars.

As a young company, albeit one ripened with experience, Leadfoot is gearing up for Metro Cruise this upcoming weekend to entrench their name in the West Michigan community.

“We’re looking to get exposure and present our cars out at Metro Cruise. We’re bringing our five-car trailer. Expect to see some Mustangs and Chevelles,” mentions Marty. “We’ve sold our cars all over the country, but our home is in West Michigan. Metro Cruise will only help us connect to our community.”

Leadfoot Muscle Cars and their trailer will be next to WKTV’s DreamWheels! red carpet event at the old Klingman’s parking lot.

Rare Wheels Come to Town in 3 Days!

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects

The cities of Wyoming and Kentwood are proud to share their streets with classic car lovers of all ages as the 11th Annual 28th Street Metro Cruise rolls in on Friday.

DreamWheels LOGOMeanwhile, WKTV is proud to be a part of Metro Cruise and share its tradition of television production expertise with the community as it presents “DreamWheels!” live on the red carpet. Thanks to many dedicated community volunteers, “DreamWheels!” will give Metro Cruisers a unique and fun perspective of this popular celebration of classic autos. Here’s a sample of what you’ll see:

A 1966 Continental Convertible
A 1966 Continental Convertible. It is what cruising is all about.

A 1966 Lincoln Continental convertible. Straight from the 1966 brochure, this car features the Empress Turquoise metallic exterior and aqua leather interior.  It was built on November 2, 1965 at the Wixom, MI assembly plant and features such options as  a Unibody car (no frame), a totally automatic convertible top, and a Stereo 8 track tape deck (new for 1966)!

Rob Zeller and John Manifold currently take care of the car which was never restored. It has always been well maintained.

This 1972 Buick Riviera has won over 40 awards from local shows.
This 1972 Buick Riviera has won over 40 awards from local shows.

A 1972 Buick Riviera. Originally owned in South Carolina, this car was used by a Michigan carpet installer to haul glue and tools. Today it is restored to a nutmeg exterior and saddle interior. Owner Bill Tripp says that its portrait was painted by a well-known local artist and used for the poster promoting the 2011 Hot Rod Power Tour in Muskegon that year.

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. Best of all – admission is free!

Enjoy Classic Cars from the Red Carpet

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects

As the 11th Annual 28th Street Metro Cruise gets ready to celebrate “Cruisin’ Back to the 20th Century,” WKTV is getting to roll out the red carpet for “DreamWheels!”

This red carpet classic car show treats audiences to surprise vehicles from the Ken Lingenfelter Collection, one of the largest in the U.S.
This red carpet classic car show treats audiences to surprise vehicles from the Ken Lingenfelter Collection, one of the largest in the U.S.

Over 40 rare and classic vehicles will be featured on the runway Friday evening and Saturday afternoon and presented by David Knisley from SPEED Television and Kim Carson from WLAV FM and WZZM’s “Take 5.” Experience Metro Cruise in a whole new way by participating as a member of the live audience as WKTV produces two live two-hour shows!

It’s the perfect way give your feet a break, sit down, relax and still take in classic cars such as these:

A 1959 Imperial Crown. A car with Chrysler Imperial on the fender or hood meant that the owner had one of the finest vehicles available on the market.
A 1959 Imperial Crown. A car with Chrysler Imperial on the fender or hood meant that the owner had one of the finest vehicles available on the market.

A 1959 Chrysler Imperial Crown. Here’s a few facts that make it so hot for the red carpet. It has push button transmission located on the instrument panel, a Silver Crest Landau Roof of stainless steel, six-way swing out front seats that make it easy to get into and out of the car AND a radio foot control on the floor board. The radio will seek the next AM radio station while both hands are on the steering wheel. Pretty high tech for 56 years ago!

Owners Orrin and Fay Dorr have collected a total of 16 Imperials since 2004. You’ll find out how and why during the show.

 

This 1931 Packard Super 8 Roadster is owned by Tom and Donna Tuls of Holland.
This 1931 Packard Super 8 Roadster is owned by Tom and Donna Tuls of Holland.

This 1931 Packard Super 8 Roadster was built for the Salon Auto Show at The Commodore Hotel in New York in December of 1930 but wasn’t finished in time so it did not make it to that show.

Tom and Donna Tuls bought the car in 2012, started restoration in 2013 and finished it just this past June. It has been received three awards in that short time.

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. Best of all – admission is free!

A Man’s Passion Becomes a World Famous Collection

Local Business, Local Faces, Recreation, WKTV Projects, , , ,

Lingenfelter 1mike_dewittBefore the number could reach 250, it had to start at 1.

When Ken Lingenfelter thinks back to when his collection truly started, it began with a car he no longer keeps around. “They’re beautiful cars, although, they don’t tend to work very well all the time,” describes Lingenfelter as he reminisces on his old Jaguar XKE, “They’re pretty special, as you know. Made those cars in the 60’s and a little bit into the 70’s.”

Lingenfelter 2This is the beauty of Ken and the Lingenfelter Collection, if it doesn’t work, why keep it around? Cosmetics and aesthetics can only take you so far.

With 250 cars in the collection, 190 of which are housed in a jaw-dropping 40,000 square-foot garage in Brighton, Michigan, there’s enough variety to fill every appetite.

American muscle cars from the 60’s and 70’s fill 30 percent of the garage. Ken lived his teenage years with these cars, so they all have a special place in his heart. El Caminos, Cougar Eliminators, Mustangs, Shelby GTs, and Camaros are some of the muscle packed into a garage with more than enough horsepower to go around. A Pontiac Fiero – a car that seems out-of-place in one of the greatest car collections in the world – even makes an appearance! It helps that Ken owned one ‘back in the day’ and loved it.

Duntov Mule
The Duntov Mule – The first Corvette with a V-8 engine.

While the collection has a solid muscle foundation, the Lingenfelter name is synonymous with Corvettes. With 75 Corvettes, the Lingenfelter Collection could transition easily to a history museum.

The Duntov Mule, named after Chevrolet engineer Zora Arkus Duntov, may be the most historically significant car in the collection. It was the first Corvette to be outfitted with a V-8 engine, and the rest is history. Back in 1954, the Duntov Mule could reach speeds of 163 mph. A number that makes you cringe out of fear for the driver when taking a look at the vehicle. The Corvette hasn’t looked back!

LaFerrari
LaFerrari – An invite only purchase

The third and final area of the garage is filled with exotic cars. These cars are rare, limited, powerful, and carry massive sex appeal.

LaFerrari – Italian for The Ferrari – is currently the biggest draw in the collection. It wasn’t as simple as showing up with a check ready. No, Ferrari had to personally invite you to buy the car! According to Ken, “Ferrari liked the charity work we do and that we share our cars with the public at events.”

In the exotic garage also sits a Lamborghini Reventon (one of 20 made in the world), a Bugatti Veyron and all the horse power that comes with it, and the Ferrari Enzo. The last of which happens to be Ken’s personal favorite in the entire collection, and one of only 399 in the world.

“That Enzo is special to me because I set a business goal for myself, and I reached it,” recalls Lingenfelter with passion oozing from his pores. “I worked hard to achieve a goal, and the Ferrari Enzo was the final goal at the end of that road. I’m a Corvette guy, but that Enzo is very special to me.”

The Ferrari Enzo, Ken's favorite car in the collection
The Ferrari Enzo, Ken’s favorite car in the collection

For Ken, the collection has always been something special. However, it wasn’t until the Lingenfelter Collection started participating in charity events that Ken realized he possessed something the rest of the world thought was special as well. It’s the people who keep on coming back that remind Ken of the gift he possesses, and Ken wants to share it with the world.

“I just have a pure passion for cars, especially Corvettes!”

Ken will be sending two cars from his collection to showcase during WKTV’s DreamWheels! red carpet television event at the 28th Street Metro Cruise. It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. Best of all – admission is free!

Ken Lingenfelter– He Loves Cars–But Giving to Charity Means Just As Much!

Local Business, Local Faces, WKTV Projects, ,
The WKTV Citizen Journalism Team gets to visit with Ken Lingenfelter and view his collection.
The WKTV Citizen Journalism Team gets to visit with Ken Lingenfelter and view his collection.

Let’s talk about a passionate, generous man. He’s an affable, teddy bear of a man cub who just happens to own one of the most rare and expensive automobile collections in the world.

Meet Brighton Michigan’s own Ken Lingenfelter. He’s a guy with huge heart and a very large car collection. The Lingenfelter Collection totals around 250 and includes a variety of Corvettes, muscle cars, and sleek exotic sports cars. Several vehicles in the collection are among the most rare automobiles in the world, including a 1.5 million Lamborghini, a Bugatti Veyron, Enzo Ferrari, and a Lamborghini Reventón. Not your Grandpa’s automobiles. But you know what means just as much to him as this fabulous grouping of expensive cars?—CHARITY.

Lingenfelter is even generous with his time. When our WKTV Citizen Journalism team showed up we were expecting about a half an hour at the most of a guided tour and interview. Three hours later our jaw dropping experience in the 40, 000 square foot facility with the best tour guide in existence was drawing to a close.  Ling 2

The collection isn’t open to the public, but: “The reason for this collection centers around charity. It’s our mission! We have hosted everything here from black tie affairs, to beer and pizza events to having the Boy Scouts host their Pine Derby event here. We have about 100 events a year,” Lingenfelter explained.

Some charities include the Ronald McDonald House, Breast Cancer research, Duchene Muscular Dystrophy, Juvenile Diabetes, Boy Scouts, youth organizations and many more.

If a charity has a sound cause Lingenfelter is there. Everything that he touches is guided by generosity. The human dynamo is always in perpetual motion raising money with private showings, tours and events while continually showcasing his infectious enthusiasm for his collection.  Ling 7

 While the collection currently is not open to the public, it is available for corporate and charity events, silent and live auctions, and car-club specialty showings. For more information on the collection, or to learn about availability and scheduling an event, please call (248) 486-5342 Ext. 10.  Or, go to his website at www.thelingenfeltercollection.com

Ling 11Two of Ken’s cars and many more will be featured during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be a crosswalk between Rogers Plaza and the old Klingman’s for easy access. Best of all – admission is free!

Ling 8Ling 4Ling 10   Ling 3

The Countdown Continues for Red Carpet Classic Car Show

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects,
This red carpet classic car show treats audiences to surprise vehicles from the Ken Lingenfelter Collection, one of the largest in the U.S.
Classic car lovers – be prepared to fall in love all over again!

WKTV continues the tradition of producing and airing the only red carpet classic car show in the country and this year it has a new name “DreamWheels!”  Car collectors from four states are bringing their rare vehicles to be showcased on the 100-foot red carpet Friday night and Saturday afternoon (see times below) during the 11th Annual 28th Street Metro Cruise.

It’s like Oscar night for car collectors according to show producer Tom Norton, who along with WKTV director Gene Gregory and many dedicated volunteers, have been preparing for these television productions for six months. Here are just a few of the vehicles you’ll see during these free shows at the old Klingman’s building:

The Austin Healey was designed by racing legend Donald Healey starting back in 1951.
The Austin Healey was designed by racing legend Donald Healey starting back in 1951.

From Ann Arbor, Jeff and Marcia DeBoer bring their 1958 Austin Healey 100 Six to the red carpet for the audience to enjoy.

The DeBoer’s Austin Healey was built in England in 1958 and shipped to a dealer in Philadelphia. Although little is known of its ownership history, it did spend time in the Upper Peninsula before DeBoer discovered the car in Charlevoix. DeBoer spent three years restoring the car’s interior to original specifications.

This 1934 Pierce Arrow is a five person sedan with an eight-cylinder engine.
This 1934 Pierce Arrow is a five person sedan with an eight-cylinder engine.

The 1934 Pierce Arrow Model 836A was the least expensive model offered by Pierce Arrow in 30 years with a selling price of $2695. It featured the company’s first aerodynamic body styling. Among the engineering firsts was a five-foot long muffler for quieter motor noise.

Will and Sue Pugsley of Lawrence, Michigan bought the car in 2013 and drive it as often as possible. (How fun is that?!) Most Pierce Arrow owners drive their cars because they were meant to be driven!

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. Best of all – admission is free!

WKTV “DreamWheels” Set for August 21st and 22nd

Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects
This red carpet classic car show treats audiences to surprise vehicles from the Ken Lingenfelter Collection, one of the largest in the U.S.
This red carpet classic car show treats audiences to surprise vehicles from the Ken Lingenfelter Collection, one of the largest in the U.S.

If classic cars could talk, oh the stories they would tell! Every one of the 40 collector classics that will be featured in WKTV’s live productions of “DreamWheels!” is proof of that.

Stop by the old Klingman’s parking lot during Metro Cruise and participate in the live audience to hear about each car’s unique history from the owners themselves. Production times are on Friday, August 21st from 8 to 10 p.m. and on Saturday, August 22nd from 4 to 6 p.m. Not only will you be enthralled with these classic beauties but you’ll be entertained by watching a live television production!

Mark White now owns his dad's 1958 Packard Hawk. As a young man he was never allowed to drive it, only wash and wax it.
Mark White now owns his dad’s 1958 Packard Hawk. As a young man he was never allowed to drive it, only wash and wax it.

You’ll see a rare 1958 Packard Hawk. Rare because it was built for only one year and only 588 were sold. But this particular car is also priceless because it belonged to Mark White’s father, Don White Sr., and he purchased it new on January 23, 1958. It was the last year the Packard name would be on an automobile. Still maintaining its originality 100 percent, the Packard Hawk’s exterior is jewel beige with a brown leather interior. White says that while his dad paid $4500 for it (he still has the original bill of sale), to him the car is priceless and it’s still “dad’s car.”

Roy Pearson kept his 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk in storage for over 30 years, waiting until retirement to finish restoration.
Roy Pearson kept his 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk in storage for over 30 years, waiting until retirement to finish restoration.

The exterior romany red/snowcap white and the interior romany red/charcoal gray combination make this 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk a rare beauty. It was one of only two cars built with this color scheme. It was owner Roy Pearson’s first car in 1964. He bought it at a police auction in Edgewater, Colorado for $155. The car’s previous history is rich with speculation of mafia connections. Again, if cars could talk, oh the stories they would tell!

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be a crosswalk between Rogers Plaza and the old Klingman’s for easy access. Best of all – admission is free!

Adventures at San Diego Comic-Con International: The Arrival

Recreation, Reviews, , , ,

Comic ConLet me take you on an adventure right into the middle of the most famous Comic-Con around.

The Adventure, my adventure, began as I was traveling out to San Diego. The plane flew out on a Tuesday, the day before Comic-Con, and I had a layover in Texas. As I was sitting there waiting for my flight, I overheard a man behind me talking about Captain America for a good 10 minutes on the phone.

When he was finished, I couldn’t contain the excitement and introduced myself to him. We wound up talking for a good hour. As it turns out, the man was a vendor headed to the same location I was… Comic-Con!

I bought this purse from Bioworld. The symbol on the purse is of the Empire from Star Wars and has stormtroopers.
I bought this purse from Bioworld. The symbol on the purse is of the Empire from Star Wars and has stormtroopers.

We exchanged cards as we got on the plane. I made it a destination to visit their booth, called Bioworld, on Friday of the convention. Star Wars memorabilia made up their entire inventory! They had adjoining booths with all things Star Wars, one example, was Her Universe.

Comic-Con started on Wednesday, which included picking up your badges and attending a preview night. The entire event takes place over 4 days at the San Diego Convention Center. In order to get a badge, you have to buy one online at the San Diego Comic-Con website.

As Press, I was able to get a 4-day Press badge. I went at 4pm and got in line to pick up my badge in Hall D, but, as it turns out, I needed to be in line at Hall B! I chalked that little mishap up to excitement and nerves!

Comic Con press badge
My registration and press badge for Comic-Con

Lines. Long lines everywhere. With the San Diego Comic-Con being so popular, long lines are to be expected and anticipated. It’s not as bad as one would think though. With the convention being held annually since 1970, the committee has had many years to work out the kinks. The event is very well organized and lines generally move quickly.

My first line of the event went relatively quickly, only taking about a half hour!

As soon as I received my badge I decided to find the hall for preview night. The preview night specials had a presentation for 5 brand new shows airing this fall on TV.

The first preview shown was called Supergirl. A brief synopsis – it’s about Superman’s cousin who comes to Earth to protect him. The show start October 26!

Supergirl coming in October
Supergirl coming in October

Next was a preview called Blind Spot. It’s about a woman who lost her memory but has interesting and unique tattoos all over her body. The tattoos are used to help the police track down the events that drive the blot. Blind Spot airs on September 21.

Preview number three was for a show called Lucifer. It’s about the devil going on vacation from hell. That airs sometime in 2016. Some of the shows they talked about did not have an actual start date; they were just starting sometime in 2016.

The fourth preview was Legends of Tomorrow. That is about a young Justice League joining forces together. The final preview was for a cartoon called Teen Titans. That is just an updated version of the older cartoon.

San Diego Comic-Con is a huge event visited by people from all over. This year’s estimated attendance was 130,000! Just an insane amount of people, and it was insane being there, I loved every minute.

I still cannot believe that Comic-Con is done already. Even though the event last five days, it doesn’t seem like enough time. It’s fanboy central. There is so much to do and see everywhere. On top of all of it, there is the famous Hall H. If you know anything about Comic-Con, it’s that Hall H is Mecca. It’s the biggest venue, but it only holds 65,000 people. Getting into Hall H is an accomplishment in itself for Comic-Con.

For the next few weeks I will be going into details about what happens inside Hall H, on the floor with the vendors, a fashion show, a couple interviews, and of course, some of the major movies coming up this fall and throughout 2016.

“Your mission, should you choose to accept it…” is to stay tuned and see what I was able to experience on Thursday inside Hall H. As a quick hint, The Hunger Games Mockingjay Part 2 is ramping things up. “May the odds, be ever in your favor.”

More Red Carpet Classics to Entice

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, ,

DreamWheels LOGO

Have you ever wanted to be a part of something BIG? Imagine having a good time and suddenly before you realize it, you’re in the middle of enjoying a great time! Your opportunity is coming up next Friday, August 21st and Saturday, August 22nd when WKTV produces “DreamWheels” live from the parking lot of the old Klingmans building. Be a part of the live television audience as rare and classic cars roll down a hundred foot glamorous red carpet.

Here’s a sample of the automobile eye-candy you’ll see:

The 1984 Aston Martin Lagonda cost more than a Rolls Royce at the time.
The 1984 Aston Martin Lagonda cost more than a Rolls Royce at the time.

This 1984 Aston Martin Lagonda was extensively customized by former owner Evel Knievel in 1990. Now owned by Bill Papke of Ada, Knievel used the car to travel the country doing promotions after he retired from his motorcycle and rocket jumping career.

Hand built in England, only 684 Aston Martin Lagondas were produced from 1983 thru the late 1980’s. During the telecast of “DreamWheels!” you’ll learn about the changes Knievel put into the car and why.

Built in Serbia, the 2007 Zoragy is a concept car featuring, among other things, an all glass roof.
Built in Serbia, the 2007 Zoragy is a concept car featuring, among other things, an all glass roof.

Also from Bill Papke’s collection, the 2007 Zoragy concept car. A small company of designers and engineers called Zoragy Concepts built this concept car in Serbia to promote their car styling company. The Zoragy is based on Camaro Z 28 mechanical components.

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be a crosswalk between Rogers Plaza and the old Klingman’s for easy access. Best of all – admission is free!

13-inch Retina MacBook Pro Review: The Force is with Apple’s Workhorse Laptop

Tech Trends, ,


From the outside, the new 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display looks like the MacBook Pro we’ve come to know from the recent past. The major changes to the laptop are only apparent once you start using the machine: increased speed, and a new Force Touch trackpad that provides new input functionality.

The changes are most certainly welcomed, but overall, they may not be enough for anyone who bought a 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro within the past three years to upgrade. But if you’re laptop is older, or you’re thinking about upgrading from a MacBook Air, you’ll see great benefits.

The new Force Touch trackpad

When you press it, the 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro’s Force Touch trackpad feels like it clicks, but the click you actually feel is haptic—technology is used to create a sensation of clicking. For longtime MacBook users, you can notice a difference when the new 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro is off: You can still click a trackpad on an older MacBook that’s powered off, but tap on the Force Touch trackpad and it feels dead, like you’re pressing against the laptop case itself.

The Force Touch trackpad has sensors to detect how hard you’re pressing. You can press to click like you normally would, but you can also perform a Force Click by pressing a little harder; you’ll feel a second, more pronounced click. Force Click has different functions; it can be used for Quick Look in the Finder; Force Click on a date and a pop-up appear to add an event to Calendar; it can activate Look Up; it shows a preview when you Force Click a web link; and much more.

I’ve always used the trackpad as a last resort. I prefer a mouse because my fingers fumble when I have to do things like click and drag to select part of an image or a section of text. But Force Click has me using the trackpad more often because it’s so useful. I don’t see myself ditching the mouse soon, but I could be using it less and less.

What else is new with the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display

The other updates are inside the laptop. Apple replaced the Intel Haswell processors in the 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro with new Broadwell processors.

The $1299 laptop has a dual-core 2.7GHz Core i5 processor, with Turbo Boost support up to 3.1GHz, 3MB of shared L3 cache, and 128GB of flash storage. The $1499 model has the same processor as the $1299 version, but it has 256GB of flash storage. The $1799 model has a 2.9GHz Core i5 processor with Turbo Boost support up to 3.3GHz, and 512GB of flash storage.

(On a side note, Apple updated the 15-inch Retina MacBook Pro during this review process. We’ll have a review of those laptops coming soon.)

Along with the processor upgrade comes a graphics upgrade. The new Intel Iris Graphics 6100 is still an integrated graphics processor, but Apple says it’s 40 percent faster than the Iris Graphics 5100 integrated graphics in the previous Retina MacBook Pro. Apple also says the flash storage is also up to two times faster than before.

Last but not least, Apple says the it has improved the battery life of the 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro, touting ten hours of “wireless web” use and 12 hours of iTunes movie playback. The previous model was rated at 9 hours for both use cases. (Battery life will be addressed in a separate article.)

Performance

As expected the performance difference between the new 2.7GHz and the 2.9GHz Retina MacBook Pro is marginal, with the 2.9GHz laptop about 5 percent faster than the 2.7GHz laptop in Geekbench 3 tests. But remember, the price difference between these models doesn’t just cover the processor upgrade; it also includes more flash storage capacity.

Even when compared to last year’s 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro, the new models are only 7 percent faster than the older laptops they respectively replace. In order to see gains over 10 percent, you have to compare the new laptop to models released in 2013.

The graphics improvement is much more impressive: The new 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro had a 29 percent increase over last year’s models in the Cinebench OpenGL tests. It’s not the 40 percent that Apple touts, but Apple’s testing was done with a different benchmark that includes three video games.

In the Black Magic Disk Speed Test, the 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro posted an average write speed of 1156.1 MBps and an average read speed of 1299.9 MBps.

Bottom line

I’ve always been a fan of the MacBook Pro with Retina display. Though, my personal preference is for the 15-inch model, the 13-inch modeled I tested are attractive laptops in their own right. If you have an older non-Retina Mac laptop, it’s a good time to upgrade. Obviously, you’ll see a huge performance boost, but you’ll also be wowed by the Retina display and the Force Touch trackpad is cool. (If you’re sticking to your older Mac laptop because of its matte display, you’ll be disappointed to find that Apple no longer has a matte display option. It’s glossy only.)

However, if you bought a 13-inch Retina MacBook Pro in the past couple of years, you might want to stick with your laptop a bit longer, since you may not consider the speed gains worth the expense. The Force Touch trackpad is a great new feature, but it’s not vital to your workflow and not enough reason alone to upgrade.

Wednesday’s Look Behind the “DreamWheels” Curtain

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects

DreamWheels LOGORight now, WKTV staff and volunteers are busily preparing to entertain the Wyoming and Kentwood community with two big productions of “DreamWheels” live on the red carpet next Friday, August 21st and Saturday, August 22nd!

As the 2015 Metro Cruise inches ever closer to 28th Street, WKTV is in high gear producing the only red carpet classic car show in the country. Producer Tom Norton says that classic car collectors from Michigan, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio are bringing a total of 40 rare vehicles to be featured on the show. You don’t have to be an avid car lover to enjoy a show with stars like these:

Back in the day, the 1956 Continental Mark II captivated owners such as Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley.
Back in the day, the 1956 Continental Mark II captivated owners such as Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley.

The 1956 Continental Mark II, presented by Mike Hurley, was built by the Ford Motor Company to be the most luxurious and elegant American car of its time. It sold for around $10,000, Hurley tells us, which was the equivalent of a new Rolls Royce or two Cadillacs! Owners included a cross section of the richest families in America and the Shah of Iran.

A 1963 Studebaker Avanti. Its unique design is one of a kind.
A 1963 Studebaker Avanti. Its unique design is one of a kind.

 

This 1963 Studebaker Avanti R-1 is a Raymond Loewy design which means no car ever looked like it at that time or since. According to its third owner, Robert Hawley, it embodies Mid-Century Modernism.

“Whether you like the styling or not, the fact that it can be polarizing makes it interesting,” says Hawley.  “With its wedge shape, coke bottle hips, curved glass, offset hood relief, grill-less face, contoured wheel openings and designed trim pieces there is always something to delight the eye.”

Hawley’s Avanti is one of two cars ever ordered with working AC and its unique colors.

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be a crosswalk between Rogers Plaza and the old Klingman’s for easy access. Best of all – admission is free!

Restaurant Week Grand Rapids Kicks Off Today at 65 Greater Grand Rapids Locally Owned Restaurants

Local Entertainment


The 6th Annual Restaurant Week Grand Rapids will kick off today with 12 days of delicious dining in Greater Grand Rapids. The event will take place from Wednesday, August 12 through Sunday, August 23, 2015 at 65 of Grand Rapids’ most popular restaurants.

Restaurant Week Grand Rapids is a value-added event inspiring diners to “Taste the City” to explore new places to have dinner, or return to their favorites, during the 12-day event.  A map showing all of the restaurants participating and each special 3-course menu for $28 – or 2-people for $28 menus – is featured on RestaurantWeekGR.com.

“Restaurant Week provides an excellent opportunity for diners to explore new restaurants and sample new ingredients and cuisine types,” explains Janet Korn, Senior Vice President of Experience Grand Rapids.

Forty-two restaurants will offer mouthwatering 3-course locally inspired menus for $28 per person. An additional 23 restaurants will offer a 3-course menu for two people priced at $28. The many different restaurants participating in Restaurant Week GR this year gives the public many dining choices including creative courses made with locally raised meats, fish, vegetables, and fruits, as well as, products made in Michigan. There are many vegetarian and vegan selections and ethnic offerings, as well. Diners will be able to choose casual dining, elegant dining and everything in between from the many restaurants participating in the event.

Restaurant Week Grand Rapids supports the Student Scholarship Fund at Secchia Institute for Culinary Education.

Doug Small, President of Experience Grand Rapids states, “Each restaurant that participates in Restaurant Week Grand Rapids donates $1 from every Restaurant Week meal sold to a special Student Scholarship Fund at GRCC. The fund, over the past five years, has raised almost $100,000 from which numerous scholarships have been awarded. It is rewarding to see the talented students from Secchia Institute for Culinary Education joining the ranks of the food service staff in this community. A key component of a destination’s appeal is the quality of its local dining scene. Restaurant Week was created to draw attention to our wonderful earth-to-table dining options in the Grand Rapids area.”

The public is encouraged call for reservations at the many restaurants who offer them, as space will fill up, especially on weekends, at some of the popular restaurants. A listing of all of the restaurants participating along with their special 3-course menus is featured on RestaurantWeekGR.com.

Restaurants that will offer 1 person for $28 three-course menus include:

Amore Trattoria Italiana , Aryana Restaurant & Bar at The Crowne Plaza, Bistro Bella Vita, Black Heron Kitchen and Bar*, Blue Water Grill, Brewery Vivant, The Bulls Head Tavern, Charley’s Crab, CitySen Lounge, Cork Wine & Grill, Cygnus 27, Divani, FireRock Grille, Flat River Grill, Ganders (Double Tree Hotel)*, Gilly’s at the BOB, Grand Rapids Brewing Company, Gravity Taphouse Grille*, Grove, Houlihan’s, Judson’s Steakhouse at the BOB, Licari’s Sicilian Pizza Kitchen, Mangiamo!, Olive’s Restaurant and Bar, One Trick Pony, Osteria Rossa, Pietro’s Italian Restaurant, Red’s on the River, Reserve Wine & Food, Rockwell Republic, Rose’s on Reeds Lake, Rush Creek Bistro, Six.one.Six, Speak EZ Lounge, Tavern on the Square, Terra GR, The Acorn Grille at Thousand Oaks Golf Club, The Bandit Queen*, The GreenWell, The Melting Pot, Timbers Inn Restaurant & Tavern, and Tre Cugini.

Restaurants that will offer 2 people for $28 three-course shared menus include:

Bobarino’s at the BOB, Brann’s on Leonard, Buffalo Wild Wings (5 locations), Cottage Bar and Restaurant, Grand Woods Lounge, El Granjero Mexican Grill, Fajita Republic, Flanagan’s*, Flatlanders*, Fricano’s of Caledonia*, HopCat, Kitchen 67, Linc Up Soul Food Café*, Lindo Mexico Restaurant, McFadden’s Restaurant & Saloon, The Mitten Brewing Company, The Pearl Street Grill, Peppino’s Downtown, Railside Golf Club, Ramona’s Table, Stella’s Lounge, Taqueria El Rincon Mexicano*, Z’s Bar and Restaurant

*Bolded Restaurants are new to Restaurant Week Grand Rapids

 Additional Information about Restaurant Week Grand Rapids 2015:

One dollar from every Restaurant Week meal sold during the 2015 event will be donated by each of the restaurants to a student scholarship fund at Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College. Since 2010, Restaurant Week Grand Rapids participating restaurants have donated almost $100,000 to the GRCC Secchia Institute Student Scholarship Fund.

Major Partners for Restaurant Week Grand Rapids include Gordon Food Service, Ferris Coffee & Nut, Old National Bank, Founders Brewing Company, Great Lakes Wine and Spirits, Ruffino Wines, Woodford Reserve and Herradura Tequila.

Major Media Partners include MLive Grand Rapids Press, Grand Rapids Magazine, Michigan Blue Magazine, and Townsquare Media radio stations: The River 100.5 fm, WFGR 98.7 fm, Channel 95.7 fm, WGRD 97.9 fm and The Touch 1410 am.

Supporting Partners for Restaurant Week include Black Star Farms, Valley City Linen, Zoye Premium 100% Soybean Oil, Michigan Restaurant Association, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, JW Marriott Hotel, Grand Rapids Courtyard by Marriott Downtown, EatGR.com, Revue Magazine and Women’s Lifestyle Magazine.

A Sample of Restaurant Week GR 2015 Menus Items from many Participating Restaurants  

 Forty-two restaurants will offer mouthwatering 3-course locally inspired menus for $28 per person. An additional 23 restaurants will offer a 3-course menu for two people priced at $28.

 1st Course: Appetizers at some of the restaurants

Avocado Bruschetta: Fresh Avocado, Garlic and Heirloom Tomatoes, Garnished with Chiffonade Mixed Greens Tossed in a Citrus Vinaigrette and Served with Grilled Breads. – The Acorn Grille at Thousand Oaks

 Wild Mushroom phyllo gateau with fresh herbs and asparagus feta puree – Divani

 Fried Brussels sprouts, soft boiled egg, pecorino, lemon, crispy ham – Bistro Bella Vita

 Roasted Peppers Tamales:  Corn Masa Tamales, Poblano Peppers, Red Bell Peppers, Cotija on Tomatillo Salsa – Bobarino’s

 Seafood Coconut Soup – Clams. Mussels and Shrimp in a Coconut broth with Yams, Onions, Garlic, Ginger, Poblano Peppers and Cilantro – Cork Wine & Grille

Tomato and avocado napoleon – heirloom tomato, cotija cheese crisp, pomegranate reduction, basil oil – Cygnus 27

Gnocchi- Potato gnocchi tossed with house made kale pesto and finished with shredded asiago – Pearl Street Grill

Peach bourbon glazed Henrietta farms trout with Stone fruit, spinach, roasted potato – Railside Golf Club 

Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho with Rye Croutons – Reds on the River

Dill and Buttermilk Panna Cotta with Arugula and Hazelnuts – Reserve

 Founder’s Pale Ale and Smoked Cheddar Cheese Baked Fondue served with House Made Salted Pretzel Chips, Grilled Black Pepper Crostini and Green Apple Wedges – Aryana at Crowne Plaza

 Diablo Strip Roll- grilled strip steak, avocado, asparagus, sriracha, sesame seed, jalapeno – Rockwell Republic

Chilled Ingraberg Farm Lemon Cucumber-Green Onion Soup – Rose’s

 Asian Salad- Spring mix, Asian noodles, mandarin oranges, red onion, with a sesame soy ginger vinaigrette – Rush Creek Bistro

 Shrimp & Grits: okemos shrimp . pancetta . farm country cheddar grits . scallions – Six.one.six

Cascabel Calabacitas: Smoked Vegetables with a Cascabel Verde and Guacamole Salad with El Milagro Corn Tortillas.  (Vegan/Gluten-Free) – SpeakEZ

Baked Mozzarella Bolognese topped with roasted tomatoes and basil served with toasted pita – Stella’s

Wild Mushroom Bruschetta – A Blend of Wild Mushrooms sautéed in a White Wine with Cherry Tomatoes, Sweet Onions, Spread across Goat Cheese Crustini’s, and topped with a Balsamic Reduction and Fresh Basil Chiffonade – Tavern on the Square

Grilled Water Melon with Sweet chili honey, Dancing Goat chevre & Arugula – Terra GR

Duck Prosciutto Panzanella: Green Well duck prosciutto, Vertical Paradise bibb lettuce, Real Food Farms tomatoes, parmesan, Old World Olive Press olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar – The Green Well

 Cape Cod Mussels – Fresh Cape Cod Bay mussels steamed with white wine, garlic, leeks, tomato, and fresh herbs.  Finished with butter, fresh cream, and lemon. Accompanied with fresh baked bread.  (Gluten free if not served with bread) – Timbers Inn

2nd Course: Entrees at some of the restaurants

 White lasagna layered with S & S lamb, Farm Country truffle cheese and porcini mushrooms – Amore Trattoria Italiana

Korean BBQ Ribs with Kimchi – The Bandit Queen

Lobster Parisian gnocchi, bay scallops, carrots, cauliflower, Urban Mushroom miatake, lobster broth – Bistro Bella Vita

Grilled Swordfish – mango jicama salsa, zucchini fritters, spiced pepitas – Blue Water Grill

 Lake Erie Walleye Blackened & Pan Seared, then Topped with a Homemade Mango Salsa with Wild Rice Pilaf & a Vegetable Medley – Bull’s Head Tavern

 Grilled Pork Chop with the Farm Hand’s bounty of Vivant Garden-fresh vegetables – Brewery Vivant

Pan roasted trout – harietta hills trout, sweet corn puree, spinach, chorizo ragout – Cygnus 27

Pulled Pork: slowly cooked pork shoulder, grilled red skin potatoes with friend corn and black beans – Flanagan’s

 Blackberry BBQ Portobello, Swiss Chard and Creamy Polenta with Lemon Creme Fraiche – Flat River Grill in Lowell

Eggplant Involtini with Basil Aioli – Fricano’s Pizza in Caledonia

 Crisp chile spiced tofu , sautéed sweet onions, spanish rice, and fresh herbs – CitySen

Baby Back Ribs – Braised in Bells Oarsman with a Sweet Barbeque Sauce, Garlic Smashed Potatoes with Sautéed Mustard Greens – Cork Wine and Grille

Herb Grilled Michigan Beef Tenderloin, Baby Spinach, Farm Tomatoes, Smoked Cashews and Old World Olive Company Roasted Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Grilled Flatbread with Celery Pesto & Balsamic Reduction – Ganders at Double Tree

Apple Lamb lollipops – seared lamb lollipops served with a roasted apple, fennel, beer sauce and smashed potatoes – GR Brewing Company

Roasted Vegetable Lasagna layered with an Italian Cheese and topped with spicy Bloody Mary crème fraiche – Grand Woods Lounge

Coconut Curry Ahi Tuna with forbidden rice and asparagus – Gravity Taphouse & Grille

Moroccan Amish Chicken, peas, heirloom carrots, parsnips, lemon-celeriac yogurt, black lentil dal – Grove

 Cowboy burger – Fried Jalapeno peppers, pepper jack cheese, Cider BBQ sauce, and cherry smoked bacon, stacked on top of our 8 oz. Beef/ Short rib blend Burger – HopCat

Pizze Estate: (V) Local Summer squash, Fresh Button Mushrooms, Eggplant, Local Cherry Tomatoes, Light Pesto, Creamy Ricotta & Mozzarella Cheeses – Licari’s

 Pollo en Pipián – Chicken breast covered in house made Pipián sauce made with pumpkin seeds, tomatillos, light jalapenos and other seasonings, Served with Mexican Rice and Corn Tortillas. – Lindo Mexico

Indian Brook Trout with roasted beets, bacon, braised greens, mixed grains & rice – One Trick Pony

Pan Fried Eggplant, fresh mozzarella, roasted pepper and sweet corn relish – Osteria Rossa

Gorgonzola Tenderloin Medallions – Pietro’s

The George: Award winning sandwich made with banana bread, shaved hickory smoked ham, creamy Havarti cheese, apricot chutney and hot pepper mustard – Ramona’s Table

Char Siu Duroc Pork Tenderloin | Ginger Scallion Noodles | Hoisin BBQ – Judson’s & Gilly’s at the BOB

Wood Grilled Ahi Tuna, French Green & Yellow beans, Sweet corn, Shiitake, Lemon-Celery Citronette – Mangiamo!

Spicy Shrimp and Grits – Cajun grilled shrimp and Andouille sausage with buttery grits – Linc Soul Food

 Three fish, chicken or steak tacos in corn tortilla, topped with onion and cilantro, your choice of home-made green or red tomatillo sauce’ served with rice and refried beans – Taqueria El Rincon Mexicano

Grilled medallions of beef served with a port wine sauce – Tre Cugini

 House made fettuccini pasta with house made bolognese sauce – Tre Cugini

 Beef short ribs braised in red wine and paprika, topped with cilantro pesto. Served with a light lemon garlic risotto and asparagus – Z’s Restaurant & Bar

 

3rd Course: Desserts at some of the restaurants

 Roasted Pineapple Coconut Cake: Brown Sugar Roasted Pineapple Accompanied by a Moist Coconut Cake. – The Acorn Grille at Thousand Oaks

White chocolate crème brulee with blackberries – Divani

Flan De Cajeta:  Goat Milk Caramel Egg Custard – Bobarino’s

 Chocolate Truffle Oreo Fries with Raspberry “ketchup” and Cream Cheese “Aioli” (v) – CitySen

Stout Cake – Bells Kalamazoo Stout, Orange Peel and Milk Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting, Smokey Bacon Brittle – Cork Wine and Grille

Flourless Chocolate Cake – Fricano’s Pizza in Caledonia

Michigan Blueberry & Orange Strudel with Schmohz Brewery Bonecrusher Caramel & Fresh Cream – Ganders at Double Tree

Chocolate Stuffed Beignets: Luscious chocolate stuffed in light, fluffy yeast dough, fried to order & topped with powdered sugar & chocolate sauce. Served with a sweet glaze for dipping. – Kitchen 67

McFadden’s Strawberry Shortcake – House-baked shortcake, smothered with local strawberry sauce & Irish whipped cream topping

Local Peach Hand Pies | Bourbon Vanilla Gelato – Gilly’s & Judson’s   

 Choco flan- Mexican Chocolate custard – Taqueria El Rincon Mexicano

 

 

Allegiant Air Brings Back NonStop Flights From Grand Rapids to Punta Gorda For Affordable Prices

Local Business

In response to growing demand for more low-cost Florida flights, Allegiant (NASDAQ: ALGT) today announces it will reintroduce nonstop service from Grand Rapids to Punta Gorda beginning Nov. 4, 2015. To celebrate the return of this highly anticipated route, Allegiant is offering fares as low as $49* one way.

“We’re pleased to once again provide Grand Rapids travelers the opportunity to affordably vacation in Southwest Florida,” said Jude Bricker, Allegiant Travel Company senior vice president of planning. “The community has enthusiastically responded to our latest Florida flights, and we are confident that we will see the same response to our Punta Gorda service.”

The flights will operate twice weekly and will fly nonstop between Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) and Punta Gorda Airport (PGD). Flight days, times and the lowest fares can be found only at Allegiant.com.

Punta Gorda will be Grand Rapids’ sixth Allegiant destination. Strong demand in the Grand Rapids market has spurred Allegiant to add more low-cost flights for travelers, including recently announced service to Fort Lauderdale that begins Dec. 16, 2015.

“We are thrilled that Allegiant is once again expanding in our market and growing its Grand Rapids-Florida nonstop opportunities,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Executive Director Brian Ryks. “Punta Gorda offers access to the Fort Myers / Sanibel and Captiva Island area, a popular vacation spot for many Michiganders. I am personally excited to utilize this new service, and encourage area travelers to take advantage of this new nonstop opportunity to the Fort Myers area.”

Catering perfectly to a personal, romantic or family getaway, the Southwest Florida Coast features exquisite beach-front dining and a wide variety of recreation in the warm, pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Allegiant partners with many of the area’s most exciting hotel properties, provides low-cost car rental service through its partnership with Alamo Rent a Car, and offers great deals on local activities. Grand Rapids travelers can now book their entire Florida vacation for less by visiting Allegiant.com.

*About the one-way fares:
Seats are limited. Price includes taxes and fees. Fares are one way and not available on all flights. Must be purchased by Aug. 14, 2015 for travel by Feb. 16, 2016. Price displayed reflects purchase by debit card; purchase by credit card subject to surcharge not to exceed $8 each way per passenger. See Allegiant.com for details. For optional services and baggage fees, please visit Allegiant.com. Additional restrictions may apply.

28th Street Metro Cruise Celebrates Cruisin’ Back to the 20th Century

Local Business, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, WKTV Projects, , ,

Metro CruiseThe Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce and the Grand Rapids New Car Dealers Association will present the 28th Street Metro Cruise® on Friday, August 21 and Saturday, August 22, 2015, along 15 miles of 28th Street. This marks the 11th year the annual celebration of classic cars has descended on 28th Street, in what has become West Michigan’s premiere auto show and cruise, attracting car lovers with unique vehicles from throughout the United States.

Additions to this year’s official Metro Cruise festivities at Roger’s Plaza include: a blood drive hosted by Michigan Blood Center from 2 to 6 pm; a seminar for lady cruisers presented by Kandi Blaze, lady gearhead and professional pin up model Friday from 4 to 5 pm; and an appearance by Pete Chapouris of So-Cal Speed Shop.

Metro Cruise The ConcourseChapouris is best known for his creation of “The California Kid” car and will be available for autographs both Friday and Saturday courtesy of Steve’s Antique Auto Repair and sponsored by J&H Family Stores, Marge’s Donut Den, Top Stitch Trim & Upholstery, Pinkies Ice Cream & Desserts, Travis Truck & Auto Collision, Inc., Vanguard Fire & Security Systems, Inc. and Wade & Jane Jennings.

The food court and vendors officially open at 4 pm Friday. At 6 pm, Cruise goers can cheer on their favorite Pinup Girl as 20 lovely ladies vie for the title of Miss Metro Cruise 2015. Across the street, WKTV will host its one-of-kind, red carpet event “DreamWheels” from 8 to 10 pm, featuring rarely seen automobiles on a live TV show. This is the only show of this kind in the nation.

On Saturday morning, the Metro Cruise re-opens at 9 am. Throughout the day there will be prize giveaways, performances by Sneaky Pete Blues Band of Kalamazoo and, of course, thousands of cars of every variety to enjoy.

The event has grown through the years to average more than 250K visitors and more than 15,000 vehicles each year. There has been momentum within the 28th Street merchants’ community to increase event participation. Being the premiere classic car attraction in Western Michigan, the 28th Street Metro Cthruise® generates a welcomed injection of tourist dollars into our community and represents a huge marketing / promotional opportunity for local and regional businesses.

Go to the Metro Cruise® website (www.28thstreetmetrocruise.com) and Facebook page for the latest information.

Who Doesn’t Enjoy Jazz in the Summer Time?

Local Entertainment, Our Cities

GRandJazzFest Announces 2015 Lineup Paul Brown & Nate Harasim (“The Producers”) with special guest Deon Yates to headline 4th annual GRandJazzFest presented by DTE Energy Foundation

On the eve of International Jazz Day, GRandJazzFest presented by DTE Energy Foundation announced the performance lineup for the fourth annual festival being held Saturday, Aug. 15, and Sunday, Aug. 16, at Rosa Parks Circle in Grand Rapids. Ten diverse acts are on tap for West Michigan’s only free, weekend-long jazz festival. The performance lineup:

  • Headliner: Paul Brown & Nate Harasim (“The Producers”) with special guest Deon Yates
  • Sunday night headliner: Steve Cole Music
  • Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra with Edye Evans Hyde
  • Walt Gutowski & The Bridge Street Band
  • Mike Frost Project 2.0
  • Grupo Ayé
  • Brian Simpson and Jackiem Joyner
  • Big Band Nouveau
  • Bryan Lubeck
  • Michael Manson

This year’s headline act brings together three internationally acclaimed musicians – Paul Brown and Nate Harasim with special guest Deon Yates – under the billing “The Producers.” “What’s better than one headliner? Three headliners!” GRandJazzFest Founder Audrey Sundstrom said. “This trio brings nonstop soul-shaking, house-rocking guitar, keyboard and saxophone to the Rosa Parks Circle stage. We’re really excited about Paul Brown, Nate Harasim, Deon Yates and our entire lineup for the fourth annual GRandJazzFest.”

Anchored by veteran contemporary guitarist and Grammy-award-winning producer Paul Brown, The Producers is high-energy jazz. Brown produced the smash-hit Summer Hornsalbum by Dave Koz. Brown’s own latest release, Truth B Told, has soared to the top of the jazz charts. A decade into his solo career, the guitarist sets the bar high for his genre by digging deeper into soul and blues, playing his 1963 Gibson Johnny Smith L-5 edgier and with more abandon. Harasim, a Grammy nominee and Soul Train Award recipient, is a composer, keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist whose performances have included President Barack Obama’s Inaugural Ball and playing twice at the Dubai International Jazz Festival. The Michigan-based artist’s latest album, Rush, debuted on the Billboard charts at No. 17 and was the No. 6 album of 2011 on SmoothJazz.com.

Rounding out the trio is Saxophonist Deon Yates. No stranger to GRandJazzFest, the Detroit-based artist returns to the Rosa Parks Circle stage as a special guest of The Producers. After going solo in 2009, Yates is fast becoming one of the most sought-after emerging talents in jazz. His chart-topping release Spotlight featured collaborations with Lin Rountree and Nick Colionne. His new project, Saxafaction, produced by Nate Harasim with additional production by Paul Brown, is poised to become the next chart topper from these super producers. (More at http://www.paulbrownjazz.com/, http://www.nateharasim.com/ andhttp://www.deonyates.com/.)

Saxophonist Steve Cole is GRandJazzFest 2015’s Sunday-night headliner. In the 15 years since the release of his debut record, Cole has traveled full circle and arrived back home on Pulse, the 10-song set mixing R&B, contemporary jazz, gospel, blues and pop. The new collection surveying Cole’s musical passions showcases the artist’s affinity for infectious melodies, a wall of horns and soulful grooves. (More athttp://mightymusiccorp.com/steve-cole-press-kit/.)

In keeping with a tradition established with the first GRandJazzFest in 2012, the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra with vocalist Edye Evans Hyde opens the 2015 event. For more than 35 years, the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra has been one of Michigan’s premier jazz ensembles, featuring some of the finest musicians in the area playing swinging original compositions and arrangements as well as traditional favorites. (More athttp://www.grjo.com.)

2011 West Michigan Jazz Society Musician of the Year Edye Evans Hyde has been singing jazz, blues and pop music for more than 30 years in West Michigan, Los Angeles, Asia and Europe. Over the years, Evans Hyde has shared the stage with world-renowned blues singer Linda Hopkins, pop singer Michael Bolton, vocalist Maria Muldaur, actress Connie Stevens, the late Ray Charles and Cuban trumpet player Arturo Sandoval. (More at http://edyeevanshyde.com.)

Walt Gutowski & The Bridge Street Band returns to GRandJazzFest this year. The popular local band played at the first GRandJazzFest in 2012. Native Grand Rapidian Gutowski has played guitar for years and his band performs at some of West Michigan’s most popular venues.

Mike Frost Project 2.0 is new to the GRandJazzFest stage but no stranger to performing. For more than 30 years, Frost, a saxophonist, has been a prominent performer and bandleader in the Midwest. Hailing from Chicago and now living in Grand Rapids, he’s headlined many world-renowned Chicago jazz clubs as well as other performance spaces and festivals in the Midwest, including Taste of Chicago, The Chicago Jazz Festival, Jazzin’ at The Shedd, The Art Institute of Chicago, The Isthmus Jazz Festival and Days of Wine & Jazz. (More at www.mikefrostproject.com.)

Grupo Ayé returns to GRandJazzFest 2015, having played at the 2012 and 2014 festivals. The popular West Michigan band specializes in Afro-Cuban music, which blends salsa, Latin jazz, bachata and merengue. The group’s experience spans performances with such noted artists as Pat Metheny, Tito Puente, Wynton Marsalis, Celia Cruz, Aretha Franklin, Harry Chapin Jr., Englebert Humperdink and Paquito Rivera. (More at grupoaye.com.)

Brian Simpson and Jackiem Joyner perform together at the 2015 GRandJazzFest. An inspired keyboardist, composer, prolific studio musician and producer, Simpson is a master of all he purveys. His eloquent approach to playing, sophisticated harmonics sense, bluesy overtones and R&B flavor have made him the go-to man for many, including Janet Jackson, Teena Marie, George Duke, Stanley Clarke and Dave Koz. Saxophonist Joyner is far from complacent in his sound and style. Not afraid to challenge the fan base that took him to No. 1 twice on the Billboard chart, he gets even more adventurous on his fifth album, Evolve. (More at http://bsimpsonmusic.com/ andhttp://jackiemjoyner.com/.)

Big Band Nouveau delivers an authentic big band sound with some hard bop and modern mainstream jazz mixed in. The 16 members of the ensemble – from all over Michigan – believe in and live all things jazz. The eclectic nature of their music draws influence from the more modern era of the big band while still remaining true to the traditional big band sound. (More at http://www.bigbandnouveau.com/home.html.)

Fiery Spanish guitar and pop vocals fueled by his seven-piece Latin-urban band make Bryan Lubeck a rousing favorite with diverse audiences. His sensitive instrumental ballads coupled with the exciting flamenco styles from critically acclaimed albums have proved to a new generation of music lovers that the contemporary elegance of Spanish guitar is more powerful today than ever before, especially when combined with the grooves of his Latin-urban band. (More at http://www.bryanlubeck.com/.)

With the release of his CD, The Bottom Line, Michael Manson joined the ranks of today’s premiere jazz artists. His first single, Outer Drive, reached the top 10 on the R&R Smooth Jazz. The bass master moved from sideman to center stage on his solo debut, which became a Billboard Top 20 CD in contemporary jazz. A native of Chicago, he joined Brian Culbertson and began performing regularly on Chicago’s jazz circuit. In 1999, he was invited to play the Monteux Casino Lights Festival. Sharing the stage with the likes of Boney James, George Duke and Kirk Whalum, he made connections that would eventually lead to many performances the world over. (More at http://mikemanson.com/.)

GRandJazzFest, now in its fourth year, announced this year’s lineup on the eve of International Jazz Day as part of celebrations taking place worldwide honoring the great American art form. H.O.M.E. at The B.O.B. in downtown Grand Rapids was the site of the lineup announcement. On Wednesdays, H.O.M.E. at The B.O.B. regularly features music acts, including jazz performances. Local jazz band Jazz Fusion Project played April 29 at H.O.M.E. Learn more about International Jazz Day at http://jazzday.com.

The two-day GRandJazzFest festival will again be free thanks to presenting sponsor DTE Energy Foundation, the City of Grand Rapids and other sponsoring organizations and individuals. More information on GRandJazzFest can be found at www.grandjazzfest.org, and at the festival’s Facebook and Twitter sites – www.facebook.com/grandjazzfest andwww.twitter.com/grandjazzfest.

‘Fun Five’ Whittled Down to Three

Local Business, Our Cities, , ,


All the way back in October of yesteryear, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley raved of a little something he likes to call his ‘Fun Five.’ The ‘Fun Five’ is a group of five businesses the Mayor is actively approaching to open up shop in Kentwood for everyone to enjoy!

With its opening in May, Dave & Buster’s, a restaurant/arcade, was the first of the five dominoes to fall in Kepley’s plan.

In less than 60 days, a second domino will fall when Trader Joe’s has its grand opening on September 25th!

“Trader Joe’s is a destination spot,” explained Mayor Kepley, “People have mentioned their excitement. It’s a spot customers will plan a trip around to fill out their grocery lists. It will bring a lot of business to Kentwood.”

When Mayor Kepley was campaigning for Mayor, he promised to bring 400 news jobs to the area in 4 years. A promise that he is intent on keeping.

The positivity is overwhelming from the Mayor about his “Fun Five.” He has succeeded in opening up two of the five business he envision. Whole Foods, Chick-Fil-A, and The Cheesecake Factory are still prizes waiting to be caught!

Tuesday’s Sneak Peek at DreamWheels LIVE!

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects

DreamWheels LOGOIt’s time to get revved up about the 2015 Metro Cruise! WKTV Community Television and Media is – so we’re sharing the excitement with you by taking a sneak peek at some amazing classic cars you’ll see Friday night August 21 and Saturday afternoon August 22 during the station’s live production of “DreamWheels!”

WKTV continues its tradition of producing the only red carpet classic car show in the country and you’re invited to be in the audience to watch it all play out. These cars have a taste of class all their own.

The recreated 1954 Chevy Corvair Concept Car has won several awards and you'll see why.
The recreated 1954 Chevy Corvair Concept Car has won several awards and you’ll see why.

A 1954 Chevrolet Corvair Concept Car comes to the red carpet compliments of owner Mike Terry. He and his good friend Brett Henderson spent three and a half years building the car he most wanted but did not exist – a 1954 Corvair Mototama Car. Only one of these cars was ever built by General Motors and destroyed by General Motors. Recreating this one of a kind car became Terry’s and Henderson’s passion which you’ll see and hear about at “DreamWheels!”

See this car and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be a crosswalk between Rogers Plaza and the old Klingman’s for easy access. Best of all – admission is free!

 

Organ Donor Registry tops 4 Million

Community Health
LIFE Walk

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson today celebrated that the Michigan Organ Donor Registry now stands at more than 4 million people willing to be organ, tissue and eye donors, bringing the statewide total of donor registrants to 52 percent of adults.

“This is wonderful news for Michigan because organ, tissue and eye donation saves and improves lives,” Johnson said. “Add your name to the donor registry and become a hero. Every name on the list means hope for the 3,500 people in Michigan waiting for a life-saving or life-enhancing transplant.”

She broke the news to a thousand walkers and runners on Detroit’s Belle Isle at the 18th annual LIFE Walk, sponsored by Gift of Life Michigan’s Minority Organ, Tissue Transplant Education Program. The program is dedicated to reducing the need for organ and tissue transplants among ethnic and minority populations, who make up nearly 50 percent of patients waiting for a transplant.

In 2011 when Johnson first took office, only about 27 percent of the state’s adults were on the donor registry, ranking Michigan near the bottom nationally. Johnson made expanding the organ donor rolls a priority but insisted that it be done at little to no cost to taxpayers. She directed her staff to start asking customers if they wanted to sign up, created a task force of leading experts and began promoting organ donor registration at Secretary of State offices. About 85 percent of people who sign up do so through the Secretary of State’s office.

Since 2011, Michigan’s organ donor enrollment ranking has jumped from almost dead last to 35th in the country, matching the national average. About 2 million people, or one-fifth of the state’s population, added their names to the donor registry in the last four years.

Johnson credited this latest success to the hard work of Secretary of State staff, volunteers, and the Gift of Life Michigan and Eversight Michigan organizations.

“I’d like to thank Secretary Johnson and the SOS staff for all of the hard work that made this wonderful milestone a reality,” said Richard Pietroski, CEO of Gift of Life Michigan, the state’s organ and tissue donor program. “Lives are improved and lives are saved through organ, tissue and eye donation. Make the decision to be a donor and help the 3,500 people waiting for an organ transplant in Michigan.”

“Our mission is to preserve and protect the precious gift of sight and reaching 4 million on the donor registry is a great step toward that goal,” said Alison Wright, Community Relations Manager for Eversight Michigan. “I commend Secretary Johnson for this wonderful news and implore everyone who doesn’t have their name on the donor registry, to please add it as soon as possible.”

“With more than half of the state’s adults signed up to be organ donors, we’re getting ever closer to our ultimate goal of 100 percent participation,” Johnson said. “It is my belief that the more people learn about the benefits of organ and tissue donation, and the power it has to transform lives, the more likely they are to sign up on the donor registry.”

Every donor has the ability to save up to eight lives through organ donation and improve up to 50 more through cornea and tissue donation.

Anyone can join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry, regardless of age or medical history. Go to www.michigan.gov/sos or visit any Secretary of State office.

For more information about Gift of Life Michigan or Eversight Michigan, visit www.giftoflifemichigan.org and www.eversightvision.org/michigan.

Editor’s Note: To speak to an organ, tissue and eye donor volunteer in your area, please call
Tim Makinen of Gift of Life Michigan at 866-500-5801 or Alex Teska of Eversight Michigan at 734-780-2675.

Take a Sneak Peek at WKTV’s 2015 DreamWheels LIVE!

Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects,

DreamWheels LOGO

As in past celebrations, the 11th Annual 28th Street Metro Cruise, will be attracting car lovers from around the country on Friday, August 21 and Saturday, August 22. For WKTV Community Television and Media the tradition continues to host the only red carpet classic car show in the country on Friday night and Saturday afternoon. The two-hour live productions have a new name, “DreamWheels!”

You’re invited to be a part of the live audience on Friday from 8 to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. as one-of-a-kind vehicles and their proud owners grace the red carpet! Hosting the shows are David Knisley from SPEED Television and Kim Carson from WLAV FM and WZZM’s “Take 5.”

Here’s a taste of just some of the classic cars you’re going to see live at “DreamWheels.”

This 1936 14th Senior Series 1401 Packard Eight-913 Touring Sedan originally cost over $2500. Although today's value is unknown, only a few of these Sedans still remain.
This 1936 14th Senior Series 1401 Packard Eight-913 Touring Sedan originally cost over $2500. Although today’s value is unknown, only a few of these Sedans still remain.

This 1936 14th Senior Series 1401 Packard Eight – 913 Touring Sedan has been owned by Richard and Leanne Zapala of Haslett, MI since July of 2011. The couple nicknamed the classic car “Big Al” after Chicago’s notorious gangster.

Retaining its original colors of a black body and tan interior, this five passenger beauty is also rumored (but not confirmed) to have belonged to actress Bette Davis but sold in an estate sale.

What is true is that Packard Motor Company skipped the automobile’s 13th Series due to superstition. As a result, the 1935 model was the 12th Series and 1936 model became the 14th Series.

The 1950 Muntz Jet takes the stage with a rich merlot exterior and a sweet cream interior. Its estimated only 198 of these cars were produced.
The 1950 Muntz Jet takes the stage with a rich merlot exterior and a sweet cream interior. Its estimated only 198 of these cars were produced.

Now here’s a classic car you’ve probably never heard of – a 1950 Muntz Jet! And here’s why:

In 1949, a man known for his design and construction of Indy 500 race cars, Frank Kurtis, began to produce a two-passenger sports car called the Kurtis Sports car. Unfortunately it wasn’t a commercial success so only 16 were made.

In 1950 Earl “Madman” Muntz purchased the rights and the tooling for the Kurtis Sports Car and proceeded to make changes to the care like increasing the wheelbase to accommodate two more passengers. More changes were applied to the Kurtis, (and you’ll hear about them during the show), and it became known as the Muntz Jet.

David Hans of Barrington, Illinois paid $60 for the vehicle back in 1964 after responding to a classified ad in the Chicago Tribune. Soon after studying the title, he realized he owned the second Muntz ever made!

See these cars and many more during WKTV’s live production of “DreamWheels!” It all takes place outside in the old Klingman’s parking lot across from Rogers Plaza. The show goes live on Friday, August 21 from 8 to 10 p.m. and again with new cars on Saturday, August 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be a crosswalk between Rogers Plaza and the old Klingman’s for easy access. Best of all – admission is free!

Don’t Miss the Kelloggsville Neighborhood Block Party!

Local Entertainment, Our Cities

It’s all about the sense of community.   That is what summer time block parties are all about.  A chance for food, fun, and coming together as a community. The Kelloggsville Neighborhood Block Party is Thursday August 13, 2015 from 5:30-7:30p.m. at Southeast Kelloggsville Elementary.  The location is 242 52nd Street (on 52nd Street between Eastern& Division).

Deb Nol, from Arie Nol Auto Center, says that this Block Party will “be an event that brings many people together to celebrate our community.  It gives local businesses the opportunity to give back and meet many of their neighbors.  It is awesome to see everyone  come together to celebrate what makes this area special!”

Here are some features: Police and Fire Departments demonstrations, Door Prizes, Booth Giveaways,  A Bounce House, Family Photo Booth, Music, Dinner, Ice Cream, Character Visits, and Everything is Free of Charge.

Come together as a community.