All posts by Joanne

The Air Zoo phase re-entry, welcome guests both in-person and virtually

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment
The Air Zoo is set to reopen to the general pubic on July 13. (Supplied)

By Nikki Statler
Air Zoo

Following an announcement made mid-June, the Air Zoo reopened its doors to its members on June 29, kicking off a two-week members-only appreciation period. General admission to the public will resume on Monday, July 13, at 9 a.m. The Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Center staff and volunteers are excited to be putting months of preparation and planning, outlined in a 32-page document, referred to as the “Air Zoo Re-Entry Plan,” into action.

“This feels a little like what capsule re-entry from a space mission might” states Air Zoo President and CEO, Troy Thrash. “We spent countless hours navigating the turbulence created by COVID-19, exploring and developing virtual opportunities to engage with the community in a new way while analyzing, planning, researching and executing new policies, procedures and experiences to safely welcome back our community when the time, and trajectory, was right. It looks as though that time is now – and we are ready and excited to see our friends and neighbors back at the Air Zoo!”

The Air Zoo’s indoor amusement park rides, flight simulators, Missions Theater and several of the hands-on Flexhibits and KEVA stations are temporarily inaccessible for guest safety. The Air Zoo plans to reintroduce these experiences when they are deemed safe to do so. In the meantime, new exhibitions and enhancements to current exhibits are being deployed throughout the remainder of the year.

NEW PROCEDURES & POLICIES

The overall Air Zoo Experience will look a bit different to visitors, as a result of the requirements and recommendations handed down by the CDC as well as state and local governments.  While both buildings will be open for guests, there are new hours, policies and procedures everyone is encouraged to review prior to visiting.

  • New Hours: The Air Zoo’s new hours are Monday-Saturday 9am-12:30pm and 1:30-5pm, and Sunday 1:30-5pm, to allow for deep cleaning and breaks for staff and volunteers.
  • Mondays are reserved for our region’s vulnerable populations, as outlined by the CDC.
  • Online ticketing is recommended, as capacity is limited for all timeslots, and available at airzoo.org.
  • Masks must be worn by all persons age 2 and up, at all times, while in the buildings.
  • Everyone who enters will have their temperature scanned, and anyone with a sustained temperature of 100.4 or higher will be asked to return another day.
  • Rides, flight simulators, the Missions Theater, and most hands-on activities will be temporarily inaccessible until state restrictions are lifted and the Air Zoo feels it is safe to reincorporate these activities.
  • The Kitty Hawk Café will be closed through the end of July (re-opening date TBA). Water and snacks are available through the Fly Buy Gift Shop.

Guests should be aware that the Air Zoo has gone to great lengths to implement safety measures internally as well; the safety of the Air Zoo staff, volunteers and guests is of the highest priority – always.  All employees, volunteers and service staff are required to wear masks at all times while in shared areas of the building, and are subject to daily temperature and health screenings as well as check-in requirements for contact tracing purposes. Guests will find that queue lines, protective plexiglass barriers, new signage and other social distancing measures have been put into place, as well as increased cleaning and disinfecting of high-traffic areas and touchable interactives. Guests are asked to pre-purchase admission online and to consider using credit cards on-site to reduce exposure. The Air Zoo asks that anyone who is feeling under the weather, or has a family member that is ill, not visit. The Air Zoo’s Guest Experience team is happy to assist in moving tickets to another day or issuing a full refund.

The Air Zoo’s Flight Discovery Center also will open on July 13. (Supplied)

RESTORATION AND THE FLIGHT DISCOVERY CENTER

The Air Zoo’s Flight Discovery Center, located at 3101 E Milham Dr., will open to members, and the general public, on the same dates and times as the Flight Innovation Center.  Air Zoo staff and volunteers are excited to be back at work in the Air Zoo’s nationally renowned restoration program where they are busy restoring two WWII planes that were rescued from the bottom of Lake Michigan to their former glory: an SBD-2P Dauntless dive bomber and an FM2 Wildcat.

Original plans, this summer, were to return the finished SBD-2P Dauntless dive bomber to Pearl Harbor in time for a commemorative 75th V-J Day anniversary celebration. Events and timelines have now shifted as a result of the pandemic and the completion and departure of the SBD will be determined and announced at a later date.

Visitors to the center will still have the opportunity to watch and interact with the restoration team at work as they paint and rebuild the two aircraft. Staff and volunteers were excited to get back and resume the painting of aircraft parts, which started just prior to shutdown in March. With the addition of their new state-of-the-art paint booth, guests will be able to see the team in action as they prime, paint and assemble the iconic dive bomber and FM-2 Wildcat.

VIRTUALLY CONNECTED 

Virtual Summer Camps
Big impacts are happening in new and inventive ways this year at the Air Zoo. Their highly skilled team of educators are celebrating a successful first week of Virtual Summer Camps and looking forward to the next nine weeks! In May the Air Zoo was met with a challenge and swiftly revamped its popular summer camp curriculum into programming that could be safe, impactful and enjoyable for children while affordable and easy-to-manage for parents, online.  More than 200 campers have been registered to date for the Air Zoo’s new Virtual Summer Camps. Educators have been resetting curriculum, enhancing activities and creating outstanding experiences as they build lesson plans and camp kits for parents to pick up at the Air Zoo or have shipped directly to their home. Children from all over, including some from California, Mexico, Pennsylvania and Maryland, are registered for Air Zoo camps this summer. Going virtual with education programming has allowed Air Zoo educators to have an even larger impact than they had ever imagined.

“Going virtual for camps and library programs this summer has really helped us to build a strong foundation to expand our scholastic programs, specialized outreach initiatives and field trips, which may have to be conducted virtually this year” states Air Zoo Education Manager, Kathy Larsen. “We would love to become a valuable STEAM education resource for educators, throughout the world as they work to navigate the 2020-2021 school year and the challenges that COVID has posed.”

Camps are still available for kids K-12th grade and cost between $20-$65 each depending on duration and camp materials. Camp kits can also be shipped to campers for a small additional fee. Camp registration closes 14 days prior to camp so interested families are urged to sign up early.

Launchpad to Learning
The Air Zoo was quick to launch its new online video center, Launchpad to Learning, on March 19th as they, along with thousands of other businesses, had to close their doors to the public. Since its launch, the Air Zoo has seen more than 40,000 visitors to the webpage, which now contains 55 videos and counting. Content ranges from science experiments and art projects to artifact briefs, story time and short museum tours. Guests will also find educational worksheets, coloring pages and other activities for families.  Content is available at airzoo.org/launchpad-to-learning and is shared among the Air Zoo’s social media sites: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.

NEW EXHIBITS! 

Alien Worlds and Androids
While some of the typical experiences may feel limited – the Air Zoo is out-of-this-world excited to announce that their new permanent exhibit – Alien Worlds and Androids – is now open to the public! Some may remember this popular exhibit, spanning almost 5,000 feet, on temporary display in the summer of 2017.

Guests will join scientists in the search for alien life in, and beyond, our solar system as they explore nine different themed environments that immerse you in outer space discoveries and that explore the advances in technology that have led to increased speculation on the possibility of life beyond planet Earth. Hands-on (limited) experiments allow guests to manipulate variables of a particular environment to see how it affects the possibility for life and will have the opportunity to journey to Mars alongside NASA’s Rover robots, get up close with the robots made famous in movies such as Terminator, Alien and STAR WARS and learn about the everyday use of real androids right here on Earth.

Jacqueline Cochran, founder of WASP. (Wikipedia)

Women in Air & Space
To shatter prior sensibilities that might find a women’s exhibit relegated to a single area on the museum floor, the Air Zoo is designing its Women in Air & Space exhibit to be integrated throughout the campus. After all, the touch that women have had on aviation and space flight is woven throughout history. Co-founded by a Woman Aviation Service Pilot (WASP) and in an effort to further explore womens’ impacts on space and aviation history, the Air Zoo plans to illuminate the diverse and impactful contributions of women throughout both facilities. Amelia: Adventurous Aviatrix, will pave the way as it opens this summer.

Amelia: Adventurous Aviatrixis anall new exhibit that explores the adventures and legacy of Amelia Earhart. Planned for display in the Flight Innovation Center’s Golden Age of Flight gallery, the exhibit tells the story of a brave, bold woman who broke through barriers to make history in the sky. Guests will learn how Amelia went from a playful child born in Atchison, Kansas, in 1897 to an aviation and women’s empowerment icon and contributor.

The exhibit highlights such stories as Amelia’s healthcare passion, which found her nursing wounded World War I pilots, and how she honored her early feminist values by deliberately choosing a female flight instructor. Guests will get to know the man behind Amelia’s powerful publicity machine and count the pilot’s numerous achievements, such as becoming the first woman (and second person) to pilot an aircraft across the Atlantic and setting women’s world altitude, speed, and endurance records. They will learn about Amelia’s ultimate dream to fly around the world, meet flight navigator, Fred Noonan, who joined her on that mission, and consider the unsolved mystery that followed. A recreated historic scene—which depicts Amelia giving flying tips pint-size pilots—provides the centerpiece to this exhibit in the round.

Memories & Milestones: the Air Zoo Story
This exhibit has been redesigned and is being installed at the Air Zoo’s Flight Discovery Center, rightfully, where it all began.  Guests can explore the story of co-founders Sue and Pete Parish, and learn about the first objects that made up the Air Zoo collection. Peer into a scale model of the Flight Discovery Center and learn about the museum’s expansions. Recall the thrill of the Air Zoo’s High on Kalamazoo air shows, including the iconic cat flights, learn about the early days of their acclaimed Restoration Center and see how the Air Zoo first put the space into aerospace.

DEVELOPMENT UPDATES  

In 2019, the Air Zoo was notified that they would be the proud recipient of one of the first F-117 Nighthawks released for public display at a non-government institution. The highly decorated Shaba (817) is scheduled to arrive in Kalamazoo in December of 2020! The Air Zoo is expected to be the first non-governmental facility in the country – and the only museum in the state of Michigan – to display an F-117. The Air Zoo is currently running a fundraising initiative called Get Shaba to help support the safe transport and restoration needed to get this magnificent aircraft out on the exhibit floor for all to enjoy. Those wanting more information can find it at airzoo.org/get-shaba.

Kentwood students hope to ‘make that change’ by encouraging people to vote

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,
East Kentwood students are hoping to help make change at this year’s election by helping people register to vote. (Photo by 2015 Tim Evanson (CC BY-SA 2.0))

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Recognizing that real change begins at the voting booth, a group of East Kentwood High School students have banded together to host a voter registration drive July 14 – 17.

“With all that has been going on in our community and nationally, there are many students from East Kentwood High School who have been very vocal about their desire to see change,” said Andrew Love, a 2020 East Kentwood High School graduate and one of the voter registration drive organizers.

Love’s friend, Litzey Ramos, another 2020 East Kentwood graduate, had been part of the school’s American Political Thought (APT) class. As part of the class requirements, each student is required to complete a final project and Ramos had decided to host a voter registration day during the school’s lunch periods.

“Then school got closed due to COVID, so she wasn’t able to do the project,” Love said.

Through a discussion between Ramos, Love, and friends, the group decided that the project was a good idea and began looking at whether they could host a voter registration event over the summer.

“We kind of pulled this together in a week,” Love said. “We knew many of the students would be heading off to college soon, so we did not want to wait too long. Plus we wanted to make sure that people were registered for the primary election.”

Residents have until July 20 to register at any office such as the Secretary of State or local clerk or at a voter registration event such as the one hosted by the East Kentwood students. From July 21 to the Aug. 4 Primary election, residents may only register at their local clerk’s office and must have proof of ID with them.

Love said the group began to look for a large parking lot where they could set up a drive thru registration event so as to abide by social distancing guidelines. Since he worked for Celebration Cinema South, Love asked his manager about using the parking lot there since the cinema is currently not open due to COVID.

A resident would drive in and be handed a clip board to fillout the voter registration. Students would be on hand to answer questions. All registrations would be collected and given to a League of Women’s Voter representative who will deliver the items to the downtown clerk’s office.

“So hopefully people would be registered to vote in time for the primary,” Love said.

At the same time, Love said students will be helping with absentee registration. Residents have until July 31 at 5 p.m. to request a mailed absentee ballot. An absentee ballot can be returned up to 8 p.m. on Aug 4 to the person’s local clerk’s office.

The registration event is open to any person eligible to vote. A person must be 18 or older by the day of the election to vote. Love said they wanted to open it to any graduating student as well as to anyone in the community needing help to register.

“Litzey and her family have a connection to the Hispanic community and they are working to let people know about this opportunity,” he said. “Our goal is to get as many people as possible registered.”

On Tap: Wyoming, Kentwood pubs make room outdoors; Bell’s joins Black is Beautiful initiative

3-bottom, Beer, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Restaurants, WKTV Projects, ,

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

When the State of Michigan allowed local craft brewing establishments — along with most Lower Peninsula restaurants — to reopen to inside seating in June, there were and still are some “socially distant” capacity limitations which make sit-down business hard to turn a profit on.

Thank God for beer gardens.

And, in some cases, thanks to various city leaders allowing parking areas and other outdoor spaces to become beer gardens, outside seating has become very important part of local businesses’ recovery plans.

 

WKTV visited three local craft brewers — Two Guys Brewing, Broad Leaf Local Beer and Railtown Brewing Company — to see how they were making the move outside.

Railtown Brewing is located at 3595 68th St. SE, in Dutton but just across the border with Kentwood. (WKTV)

For Railtown Brewing, an existing wrap-around deck area was already in place and required very little changes. For TwoGuys Brewing, they worked with the City of Wyoming to be able to use parking spaces until a new back deck area is finished and approved.

For Broad Leaf Local Beer, working with Kentwood city leaders allowed them to expand into a grassy area onsite and into their parking lot — but that is just the beginning of a cooperative effort, including making the place a little more dog friendly.

(For a video report on Broad Leaf Local Beer’s outdoor spaces, doggie-friendly attitude — and the assistance they have received from the City of Kentwood — see the WKTV YouTube video at the top of this story.)

Railtown andTwoGuys

Railtown’s fairy new facility was perfectly suited for the new rules, and both have continued to garner community/customer support in changing conditions.

“We’re not expanding our space in any way. We’re actually in a fairly unique position to have a lot of space as it is,” Railtown Brewing Company’s Justin Buiter said to WKTV in June. “Inside, we’ve removed many tables, chairs and bar seats to get everyone spaced out appropriately. Outside, our tables were already socially distant, so there wasn’t much change necessary out there.

“In general, the support has continued to be amazing. As most folks are experiencing, face masks are the hot button issue. We really haven’t had any issues to speak of and folks have been generally understanding.”

Two Guys is actually working to offer permanent outside seating while it utilizes temporary outside seating.

Two Guys Brewing is located at 2356 Porter St. SW, Wyoming. (WKTV)

“We have taken advantage of the ‘Temporary Outdoor Space’ and are able to use part of our front parking lot until October 31,” TwoGuys Brewing’s Amy Payne said to WKTV. “We have a permanent patio space in the back that is in the works and will, hopefully, have approval soon for that. … Inside we have reduced our number of tables by half and bar stools by just over half, making sure that all guests are a minimum of 6 feet from the next guest.

“Folks have been very understanding and have followed the rules fairly well. Support has been amazing with many of our neighbors and regulars making sure they come in at least once a week. They want us to be around when this is all over!”

Two Guys Brewing is located at 2356 Porter St. SW, Wyoming. For more information visit twoguys-brewing.com.

Railtown is located at 3595 68th St. SE, in Dutton but just across the border with Kentwood. For more information visit railtownbrewing.com.

Broad Leaf Local Beer is located at 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd., Kentwood. For more informant visit broadleafbeer.com.

Bell’s Brewery to join Black is Beautiful initiative

Bell’s Brewery recently announced it has joined the Black is Beautiful initiative, an effort to help “bring awareness to the injustices many people of color face daily,” with the planned August release of a special brew.

The Black is Beautiful initiative originated with Marcus Baskerville, founder and head brewer at Weathered Souls Brewing based in San Antonio, according to supplied material. Originally planned as a Weathered Souls-only release, Baskerville was encouraged to expand his reach and make the recipe and label artwork available to more craft brewers — and so Bell’s plans to step up to the bar.

“We all have some work to do, Bell’s included, and we are committed to that,” Larry Bell, president and founder of Bell’s Brewery, said in supplied material. “It starts on an individual level. We all have a responsibility to do what we can to continue this conversation and help drive real change.”

There are currently more than 700 breweries from across the globe committed to this initiative.

Bell’s version of the Weathered Souls Imperial Stout recipe will be released in 6-pack bottles exclusively at Bell’s General Store in downtown Kalamazoo and Upper Hand Brewery Taproom in August. Upper Hand Brewery is a division of Bell’s Brewery and is located in Escanaba.

As part of this initiative, Bell’s will make donations to two local Black-led organizations, the Kalamazoo NAACP and Face Off Theatre.

This collaboration brew, “while sharing some of the same values,” is not part of Bell’s Celebration Series, according the Bell’s statement. That series, which empowers different groups within the company that makes Bell’s what it is, will continue later this year with another beer designed and brewed by Bell’s employees. That next release, which will come from and celebrate Bell’s Black and African American employees, will be released in the fall.

Previous brews have celebrated International Women’s Collaboration Brew Day, the LGBTQ+ community and veterans.

For more information on Bell’s Brewery visit bellsbeer.com.

GVSU economics expert: Recovery picks up steam, for now

3-bottom, Local Business,

By Dottie Barnes
Grand Valley State University

Brian Long is a local business forecaster. Credit: GVSU

With many West Michigan production facilities resuming marginal operations, the pent-up demand has brought economic statistics back closer to break-even, said Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business.

Long surveyed local business leaders and his findings below are based on data collected during the last two weeks of June.

The survey’s index of business improvement (new orders) came in at -7, considerably better than the -32 reported in May. In a similar move, the production index rallied to -11 from -35. The index of purchases recovered to -13 from -32, and the employment index rose to -13 from -38.

Long said many local manufacturing firms have resumed partial production schedules. He said statewide unemployment improved modesty to 21.2 percent from 24 percent, the third highest in the nation.

It appears the West Michigan automotive industry stands the best chance for recovery over the short term, compared to the office furniture and aerospace industries, said Long.

“The office furniture industry is still shipping orders that were placed before the crisis, so we don’t know what the October order books will look like,” he said. “Home offices will become a bigger market in the future, but our local firms do not seem to have many entries for this market.” 

 

Long added the implementation of face masks and social distancing can allow for much of the manufacturing industry to reopen.

The Institute for Supply Management survey is a monthly survey of business conditions that includes 45 purchasing managers in the greater Grand Rapids area and 25 in Kalamazoo. The respondents are from the region’s major industrial manufacturers, distributors and industrial service organizations. It is patterned after a nationwide survey conducted by the Institute for Supply Management. Each month, the respondents are asked to rate eight factors as “same,” “up” or “down.”

Michigan’s Keweenaw area becoming a work, play destination spot

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By Brad Barnett
Keweenaw Convention & Visitors Bureau

If you travel to the end of US 41, you’ll find yourself in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. Known for its Northwoods wildlands and stunning Lake Superior beaches, the Keweenaw is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts and leisure travelers.

But as employers embrace the benefits of working remotely, the Keweenaw is morphing into the Midwest’s ultimate outdoor office. Given flexibility to work from home (or anywhere with an internet connection), employees are packing their laptops for a workcation.

So what makes the Keweenaw an attractive destination for the new “Zoomer” workforce?

The Greatest of the Great Outdoors
The Keweenaw’s remote wilderness is home Isle Royale National Park and some of the country’s most beloved mountain-bike trails at Copper Harbor. Plus, there’s another 60 miles of single track in the area suitable for different levels. Abundant conservation and nature preserves feature flowing waterfalls and countless hiking opportunities.

But in the winter months, the Keweenaw truly shines. The area has hosted the National XC Skiing Championships several times over the past decade thanks to world-class Nordic skiing trail systems, and nearby Mount Bohemia claims the best powder east of the Rockies, with an annual average of 273 inches and 900 feet of vertical. And like summer, countless snowshoe and fat tire biking trails crisscross the peninsula.

Lake Superior Life
Nestled in the heart of Lake Superior, the Keweenaw’s abundant shorelines draw travelers seeking calm waters and quiet beaches. Come summer there’s boating, paddling, surfing, and kiting on Lake Superior and numerous inland lakes. Pack a lunch and some sunscreen and set up your mobile office a few feet from the water. You can always hit mute on your video conference if the sound of waves lapping against the shore gets too distracting.

Small Town Vibe, Big Tech Resources
The Keweenaw is made up of numerous small towns with most populations ranging from 200 to 2,500. But the metropolitan cornerstone of Houghton (pop. ~7,500) consistently ranks as one of America’s top small towns because of its access to outdoor recreation, charming downtown, nearly non-existent crime, and quality education systems. High-tech start-ups generated by Michigan Tech University grads have led to a surge of coworking and maker spaces like 101 Quincy perfect for workers needing temporary access to office space and advanced communication infrastructure.

How to Get Started
Visit www.keweenaw.info to start planning your Keweenaw work remote experience.

Photo of the Week: All together now

Citizen Journalism

Why did the geese cross to the other side? Well you might have to ask the staff at the Wyoming Clean Water Plant. It is where this little gaggle of geese were spotted making there way from one side of the parking lot to the other, avoiding all cars and people of course.

Do you have a photo you would like considered for Photo of the Week? Send it to WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma at joanne@wktv.org.

Snapshots: Music, masks, and enjoying our great state

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,

“If the choice is dying from COVID-19 or surviving by wearing a hazmat suit, a gas mask and goggles to the shops, I choose the latter.”

Steven Magee, a world leading expert on radiation and human health

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

No shirt, no shoes, no mask, no service

OK all you mask haters, Governor Gretchen Whitmer had a message for you this week: just wear them. And in fact, several area restaurants, such as Wyoming’s TwoGuys Brewing, have joined the Michigan Restaurant Promise, an initiative designed to ensure the health and safety of their employees, customers and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Restaurant owners have made the commitment to assure their employees are healthy with wellness checks, and other social distancing guidelines including wearing masks. In return, restaurants who sign the promise, ask restaurant-goers to wear masks and adhere to social distancing guidelines. For more, click here.

Renowned harpist Deborah Henson-Conant and the Grand Rapids Symphony will be featured in a rebroadcast of a Grammy-nominated PBS special. (Supplied/GRS)

A blast from the past

Missing the Grand Rapids Symphony’s summer pops concerts? Well don’t fret! At 7 p.m. Friday, July 10, and again at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 11, there will be a special showing of the Grammy-nominated PBS special “Invention & Alchemey,” featuring renowned harpist Deborah Henson-Conant and the Grand Rapids Symphony. Streaming of the special will be available July 12 -17. For more, click here.

Fort Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City. (Supplied)

West Michigan Round-Up

There are lot of gas tank away adventures taking place this weekend that gives you an opportunity to explore our great state. The Lakeshore Harvest Country’s guide features an array of farms and wineries that will have you traveling around Lake Michigan. Petoskey is celebrating the 55th anniversary of the Petoskey stone being Michigan’s state stone. Or go further north to visit the Fort Michilimackinac, part of the Mackinac Historic State Parks, which will be featuring 125 different events in the coming days.

Final Word on Masks from Bill Nye

Today we are letting one of the nation’s most famous science guys do all the talking…take it away Bill.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EV4IcXlpxcM
Bill Nye, the Science Guy, discusses wearing a face mask.

Virtual summer camp for deaf — and hearing — kids available this summer

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Upcoming Events, ,
Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services community education coordinator Nancy Piersma, left, with Kenny in background, at John Ball Zoo. (D&HHS)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (D&HHS) in Grand Rapids didn’t want to cancel an annual summer camp that deaf kids have been part of in person, but then COVID-19 happened.
 

So a summer camp for both deaf and hearing kids will happen virtually in 2020 — “a week’s worth of excitement and education,” according to a statement from the organization.

Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services community education coordinator Nancy Piersma, left, with Kenny in background, at John Ball Zoo. (D&HHS)

Recently, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ community and partnerships manager, Erica Chapin, was out and about in Grand Rapids with community education coordinator Nancy Piersma (a native deaf facilitator who uses sign language to communicate) and a film crew, plus some special guests, filming at John Ball Zoo, Blandford Nature Center, HOPE Gardens community garden and The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum.

“Through these videos, kids will be able to learn and experience something new,” Chapin said in supplied material. “Each day Nancy teaches new signs related to the theme, making Kids Kamp videos a great opportunity for children to have increased exposure to language. Every video is in ASL, with English interpretation and closed captioning, to offer accessibility to anyone who wants to watch.”

From July 13-17 those videos will be rolled out for free on the D&HHS YouTube channel. But kids who buy a Kenny’s Kids Kamp Kurious Kit for $30 will be able to complete a number of crafts and activities at home as they watch the videos, according to the statement.

“Kenny is our Kids Kamp friend who is coming along with us for our adventures,” Chapin said. “He is a stuffed animal monkey. Throughout our videos you can see him playing in the background. Sometimes he is easy to find; other times he is hidden away. The kids have to keep an eye on him and at the end of the week we will announce how many times he was seen.”

Each Kenny’s Kids Kamp Kurious Kit will include a 2020 Kids Kamp t-shirt, snacks and drinks for each day, ASL vocabulary related to the video adventures, crafts, a children’s book and other fun activities to promote learning. In addition, according to the D&HHS statement, the purchase of a Kurious Kit enters each purchaser into a daily drawing for bonus prizes from the video locations that include fun for the whole family.

D&HHS will also be offering scholarships and seeking donors to underwrite kits. Anyone who would like to apply for a scholarship for a kit can contact Deb Atwood, executive director, at datwood@deafhhs.org.

Also, on the Kids Kamp sign-up page, people can purchase a kit for a child directly, said Chapin. For more information visit here.

Questions about Kids Kamp should be directed to Erica Chapin, Community & Partnerships Manager, at 616-732-7358, x211 or community@deafhhs.org.

GR Symphony’s Grammy-nominated, PBS TV special returns July 10 to YouTube

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, , ,
Harpist extraordinary Deborah Henson-Conant performs with the Grand Rapids Symphony in Invention & Alchemy. (Supplied/GRS)

By Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk
Grand Rapids Symphony

The first time the “Wild Woman of the Harp” strutted onto the Grand Rapids Symphony’s stage, the audience was electrified.

Dressed in cowboy boots and a short leather mini skirt, long hair ribbons of maroon and turquoise streaming down her back, strapped into an electric harp, Deborah Henson-Conant had yet to play a note. But already the Grand Rapids Symphony and its audience knew something very special was about to happen.

Within a few years, Henson-Conant and the orchestra had recorded Invention & Alchemy, a compact disc and DVD that led the Grand Rapids Symphony to a Grammy nomination and national recognition for the TV special widely seen on PBS TV.

The Boston-based harpist, once described as the “love child of Andre Previn and Lucille Ball,” is back with the Grand Rapids Symphony for the virtual online premiere of Invention & Alchemy. The original 97-minute DVD, recorded live in DeVos Performance Hall, will premiere at 7 p.m. Friday, July 10, on YouTube, available only on an RSVP basis. Click here to RSVP for the fund-raising benefit for the Grand Rapids Symphony.

An encore premiere follows on Saturday, July 11, at 2 p.m. in the United States and internationally at 7 p.m. in the United Kingdom. 

Streaming on demand will be available July 12-17 on YouTube. Go online and RSVP for access to the July 10 premiere and receive access to behind-the-scenes videos and online events.

Deborah Henson-Conant said she had a dream about making the PBS special. (Supplied/GRS)

Invention & Alchemy features original songs and stories by Henson-Conant, performed with conductor David Lockington leading the Grand Rapids Symphony, in a wide variety of musical genres.

“It was a fantasy of mine. I literally had a dream,” Henson-Conant recalled. “I dreamed I shrunk down and strapped on a harp and played it in front of a symphony orchestra.”

The DVD was recorded live in November 2005 in DeVos Performance Hall.

“When we started this project, we knew what we wanted to do, and then we had a list of dreams,” Henson-Conant said. “One was a PBS TV special and another was a Grammy nomination.”

In 2006, Invention & Alchemy became one of five CDs nominated in the category of Best Classical Crossover Album for the 49th annual Grammy Awards in February 2007.

“It was just so thrilling to be here and to have this project nominated,” Henson-Conant told The Grand Rapids Press in February 2007. “Just to get here has been amazing.”

But beginning a few weeks later, Invention & Alchemy was seen throughout the United States as a one-hour TV special. Over the next two years, it was seen on more than 70 PBS-TV stations from coast to coast.

“I got to do something that almost no composer-performer ever gets to do, which is to bring their work alive at that level of professionalism,” Henson-Conant said. “The level at which PBS was able to take it exactly as we created it and broadcast it all over the United States.”

Several Grand Rapids Symphony musicians and former musicians are featured soloists in the show, and the entire orchestra gets into the act for a costumed, sci-fi, mini-drama titled “Danger Zone.”

With Associate Conductor John Varineau on the podium, Lockington on cello joins Henson-Conant for a mesmerizing dialogue titled “996,” which Henson-Conant describes as the night that Scheherazade, from the classic story “A Thousand and One Nights,” finally melts the heart of the Sultan.

Grand Rapids philanthropist Peter Wege, who died in July 2014, was the primary underwriter of the $500,000 project. Henson-Conant was introduced to the former Steelcase, Inc., executive following her first performance in Grand Rapids.

Peter said to me, ‘What I saw out there on stage, I want the whole world to see,’” Henson-Conant recalled.

“I tell the story from the stage, often, that meeting Peter was my Cinderella story,” Henson-Conant said. “Part of what I loved about the project was that I felt it was something Peter and I were doing together. That as philanthropist and artist, we were bringing something to the world that alone neither of us could bring.”

Colonial Michilimackinac to host several Mackinac Parks: 125 events in coming days

Entertainment, ,
A trade-in demonstration at Fort Michilimackinac. (mackinacparks.com)

By Dominick Miller
Mackinac State Historic Parks

Colonial Michilimackinac, a colonial fort and fur trading village on the shore of Lake Michigan in Mackinaw City, will host several events in the coming days in celebration of the 125th anniversary of Mackinac State Historic Parks.

“These three events allow us to share some new and exciting elements of Michilimackinac with visitors, including things like the Fire at Night that we’ve never done before,” said Craig Wilson, Curator of History for Mackinac State Historic Parks. “Even if someone has visited in the past, I would invite them to come back and see what’s new, not just with these special programs but with our regular activities and exhibits.”

First, on Thursday, July 9, Michilimackinac will host a Fire at Night, allowing guests to see Michilimackinac’s weapons fired as the sun sets. Staff, dressed as British soldiers, will fire a wall gun, mortar and cannon on the beach with the magnificent Mackinac Bridge as the backdrop. Guests can enter through the secondary entrance on Straits Avenue at 9:00 p.m., and the program will start at 9:30 p.m. This is a free event.

Michilimackinac at Work: Labor and Trades weekend takes place July 11-12 during regular hours at Colonial Michilimackinac. Michilimackinac was a hardworking community in the 18th century. Voyageurs, blacksmiths, laundresses, clerks, and soldiers all plied their trades at the fort, employing both skilled and unskilled labor. Join the interpretive staff as they demonstrate a variety of tasks that made up the world of work at Michilimackinac in the 18th century.

Regular admission to Colonial Michilimackinac includes all the special events included with the themed weekend. The schedule for the weekend includes:

A musket demonstration at Fort Michilimackinac. (mackinacparks.com)
  • 9:30 a.m. – Musket Demonstration
  • 10:00 a.m. – ‘For Want of a Smith:’ Blacksmithing at Michilimackinac Program
  • 11:00 a.m. – Soap and Water: Laundresses at Work Program
  • 12:00 p.m. – Musket Demonstration and Soldier’s Duties Program
  • 1:00 p.m. – People of the Fur Trade Program
  • 2:00 p.m. – At Work at Michilimackinac: Enslaved and Domestic Labor Program
  • 3:00 p.m. – Artillery Drill
  • 4:00 p.m. – ‘For Want of a Smith:’ Blacksmithing at Michilimackinac Program
  • 5:00 p.m. – ‘She Was Very Generally Respected:’ Women at Michilimackinac Program
  • 6:00 p.m. – People of the Fur Trade Program
  • 6:30 p.m. – Musket Demonstration

Finally, on Wednesday, July 15, Michilimackinac will be host to its second “Hidden Histories” evening. Focusing on marriage and the British army, this program will explore the complexities of love, marriage, and long-distance relationships in the British military of the 18th century. The entrance for this event will be at the secondary entrance on Straits Avenue, and this is a free event.

Appropriate social distancing will take place during all events, and all guests are expected to wear masks inside buildings and when social distancing is impossible.

Mackinac State Historic Parks, a family of living history museums and parks in northern Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac, is an agency within the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Its sites—which are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums—include Fort Mackinac, the Biddle House, The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, Historic Downtown Mackinac, and Mackinac Island State Park on Mackinac Island, and Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park and Michilimackinac State Park in Mackinaw City. Mackinac State Historic Parks is governed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, established in 1895 to protect, preserve and present the parks’ rich historic and natural resources for the education and recreation of future generations. Visitor information is available at (231) 436-4100 or on the web at www.mackinacparks.com.

Up next for the Sounds of Summer concerts is classic rock

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Video from Jaded 8 Facebook page.

By Shallom Kimanzi
WKTV Intern

Classic rock and power ballard will be the music track for this Thursday’s Sound of Summer concert program.

Jaded 8 will be the guest performers for the free 7 p.m. concert at Cutler Park, 6701 Cutler Park SW, just west of 68th Street and Division Avenue.

Being one of the few outdoor annual concerts taking place this summer, it is apparent from Jaded 8’s Facebook page that the group is excited to perform this Thursday.

“We’ll be cramming every song possible into the show because WE MISS PLAYING and WE MISS YOU!,” the band wrote on its Facebook. “And we are even going to practice for it, so you know we’re serious!”

Jaded 8 was formed in January 2010 and is currently made up of three members who have been rocking the Lakeshore since then. Mark Pawlak, a co-founding member of the band is on guitar and vocals together with his co-founder Lee Nelson, who is on the drums and vocals. Jeff Post joined them later on and is on the bass guitar and also vocals.

“We love classic rock…and we perform to honor those incredible artists who brought this timeless music to the ears of multiple generations,” according to the band’s our story on Facebook. “Whether you’re a boomer or a Gen-X, Y, or Z’r, you will know these tunes and you will be singing along with every song.”

Sounds of Summer organizers are not oblivious to the current COVID-19 situation and therefore will be observing public health guidelines, such as groups having to stay six feet apart.

Upcoming performances include Oat Bran Boys July 16, dusty Chaps July 23, and LWND July 30. For more information about the Sounds of Summer, click here.

Previous Sounds of Summer concerts are now airing on WKTV Channel 25 at 8 p.m. Tuesdays and 9 p.m. Saturdays.

Kent County Community Action to hold food distribution in Grand Rapids on Thursday

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Food distribution to those in need are happening across the county. (Feeding America WM)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Kent County Community Action (KCCA) will hold another in a series of food distribution events in Grand Rapids, but open to the “general population with low income,” on Thursday July 9, from 9 a.m. to 1p.m., at 121 Franklin SE.

The KCCA and the Grand Rapids Police Department are asking residents to enter southbound on Jefferson Street from Wealthy Street. The GRPD will be barricading all other entrances and side streets to ensure an orderly operation, according to a Kent County statement Monday.

Residents need to remain in their vehicle and have their trunks open and ready to accept more than 50 pounds of food.

 

There will not be walk up service in an effort to adhere to social distancing requirements for the protection of residents, volunteers, and staff.

“This distribution is our way to respond to those households with food insecurities in an effort to alleviate the causes of poverty,” Susan Cervantes, KCCA director, said in supplied material.

 

The event is projected to assist 900 households “that are struggling to meet their food needs during the COVID-19 pandemic,” according to the statement.

There will be more than 20 food items in the packet including but not limited to fresh apples and oranges, canned vegetables and fruits, rice, beans, and meats including pork and beef.

 

Having ‘out lived its niche,’ longtime Wyoming variety store closes its doors this month

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According to the Wyoming Historical Commission, the Suburban 5 & 10, now Springrove Variety, was started around 1958 by the Bulthuis family. The picture above is of the first store which was located at 921 28th St. The location is now a park. (Photo: Wyoming Historical Commission)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The candy counter at the Springrove Variety Store is empty. About 10 of the shelves close to the cash register have items left with most of the store’s other shelves empty.

After more than 60 years, the five-and-dime store located on 36th Street just west of the corner of 36th and Clyde Park Avenue will officially close its doors in a couple of weeks.

“This has nothing to do with COVID or anything else,” said owner Mike Sprenger. “The landlord had put the building up for sale and I really don’t have a lease there.

“Plus it’s just time. I think us dime stores have kind of outlived our niche.”

A predecessor to the dollar stores, the five and dime — also called the five and ten, nickel or dime, and ten-cent stores  — were known for offering a wide assortment of inexpensive items for personal and household use. Candy, toys, housewares, and notions were just some of those items.

Springrove Variety Store, the former Suburban 5 & 10, located at 815 36th St. SW, will close within a couple of weeks. (WKTV)

“My first time coming here [was] in 1998 with my mother-in-law. I fell in love with all the thing I could create and have through the years. All the blankets and quilts made form supplies from your store. I am very sad to see you go. Truly the last quality store with friendly service. You will be severely missed. “- a customer wrote in a notebook filled with good-bye notes and well wishes.

“I grew up in the neighborhood,” wrote another customer in the book. “Often my mom would bring me here to spent $1.00 in the 1960s. I would walk up and down the isles to make a decision.”

Just as popular was the candy — especially the sea foam, which Sprenger said “We got that from Muskegon.” People would come from miles to get the sea foam candy, store employees noted.

Frank Woolworth is largely credited with founding the first American five-and-dime stores. After having had some success in Michigan and western New York with his nickel stores, where everything cost a nickel, Woolworth opened his Great Five Cent Store in Utica, New York, and then later opened the F. W. Woolworth Company. Woolworth ceased in 1997. There were others such as Kresge which became Kmart and Sam Walton, founder of War-Mart, started with the well-known Ben Franklin stores.

Sprenger began his career with the D&C Five-and-Dime store, founded by brothers James and Paul Dancer and their partner, Glen Cowan in 1926 in Stockbridge, Mich. The D&Cs expanded to include 54 stores at one point but by 1993, giant discount retailers had moved in and the D&C chain closed its stores. 

After leaving D&C, Sprenger decided to continue in business, buying a few dime stores, one in Marysville near Port Huron, one in Owosso, and another in Lowell which had been operating as a five-and-dime store since 1926.

“I just loved that the dime store was such a part of the community,” Sprenger said. “It was fun to be with the people.”

“It turns into a mission and it really was a joy. We did not make a lot of money, but we’ve been blessed.” 

Springrove Variety Store customers and area residents leave messages in a notebook. (WKTV)

That love was shared by many who left good-bye notes in that notebook just a few feet from the store’s entrance. 

“My sister (Kathy) and I (Linda) have been coming here for years and we will so dearly miss and remember you all. We could find anything here. Thank you so much.”  – Customers Kathy and Linda



“First came here in my teens. Now I’m in my 70s!!” – A Springrove customer.

Through its records, the Wyoming Historical Commission found that the then Suburban 5 & 10 was started in 1958 by Jack A. Bolhuis and Myrth Bolhuis, both of whom lived in Wyoming. The store was first located along 28th Street and by 1963, had moved to its current location along 36th Street, according to the Polk Directories. The directories also showed that the couple at onetime had a second location on Lake Michigan Drive. In the 1980s, Dale Elliott purchased the store and would sell it to Sprenger in 2008.

“At that time, the owner was looking to retire and was going to shut the store down,” Sprenger said adding that he loved the dime stores and just did not want to see the Wyoming store close.

“Now I am where the former owner was at and it’s time to just slow it down,” Sprenger said, adding with a laugh, “All of us mas and pas have become grandpas and grandmas.”

With the building for sale, Sprenger made the decision to close, letting employees know in January. The COVID-19 delayed the sales, but as soon as allowed, Springrove reopened in June with its closing sale. Within weeks, the store’s inventory had been considerably reduced. Many of the fixtures have been sold as well.

Sprenger agreed with the customers that it is sad to see the Wyoming store closed, ending an era for the Wyoming community. This August, he will start the process of closing the Lowell location. His other stores, the ones in Owosso and Marysville, will remain open for now. 

“You will be missed,” wrote a customer. “This store has been big part of my childhood and then my kids. Best of luck and you will be in our prayers. Thanks for the years!!!”

Within only a few weeks, much of the store’s inventory has been sold. Things are going so quickly that it is expected the store will close in a couple of weeks, according to store employees. (WKTV)

New ‘Michigan Restaurant Promise’ initiative promotes health and safety during COVID-19

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

A group of 86 Michigan restaurant and bar owners last week announced the launch of “Michigan Restaurant Promise”, a new initiative to ensure the health and safety of their employees, customers and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID-19 has had a significant impact on West Michigan and many businesses — particularly bars and restaurants — have suffered,” Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss said in supplied material. “It’s great to see this group rally together to protect the health and safety of their employees, customers and our community.”

Among the local restaurants and craft breweries involved are Mitten Brewing, Brewery Vivant (parent company of Kentwood’s Broad Leaf Beer) and Long Road Distillery.

“As restaurant owners and managers, we feel a sense of responsibility for the health and well-being of our employees, our guests and the community at large,” Kris Spaulding, owner of Brewery Vivant, said in supplied material. “That’s why we started this initiative — to show our communities we are taking this seriously and are committed to protecting their health and safety.”

There is also a concern about those establishments not as committed as others.

“It’s frustrating to see bars and restaurants not enforcing the health and safety guidelines laid out to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities,” Chris Andrus, owner of Mitten Brewing, said in supplied material. “Those establishments threaten to undo the many sacrifices our community and industry have made and undermine the hard work of establishments like mine committed to keeping the public safe.”

The effort could also serve as a model for the state.

“Small businesses are the heart of West Michigan and it’s great to see this group of local restaurant and bar owners be leaders in putting people first,” Hanna Schulze, president of Local First, said in supplied material. “The Michigan Restaurant Promise can serve as a model for other communities to hold their local businesses accountable and encourage them to prioritize the health and wellbeing of their employees and customers above all else.”

Learn more about the initiative by visiting MiRestaurantPromise.com.

We the People 2020 Primary Election: Kent County Treasurer candidates

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Note: For the Michigan Aug. 4 primary, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates for any seat where there is a contested primary in either party. For the general election, all candidates will be invited to record a We The People.

Kent County Treasurer

There are three candidates, one a two-term Republican state senator and two in the Democratic primary, seeking the Kent County Treasurer position. They are State Sen. Peter MacGregor of Rockford, and Democratic primary candidates José L. Reyna of Ada and Beth White of Grand Rapids.

Note: Neither MacGregor nor White were available for a We The People video recording prior to the primary. The Republican and Democratic primary winners will be invited to participate after the August primary.

 

Peter MacGregor – Incumbent State Senator and county treasurer candidate

Party: Republican

José L. Reyna – County treasurer primary candidate

Party: Democrat

Occupation: Consultant/semi-retired

Why did you decide to run for the 72nd District House of Representatives seat?

I grew up in Grand Rapids/Kent County and have dedicated my professional career to public service. I decided to run for the office of Kent County Treasurer with the interest of continuing my service to the community that I love and use my professional experience of over 30 years for the benefit of the Kent County community. My experience includes decades of financial management including serving as a director of departments with the responsibility of developing and managing budgets. My tenure with the City of Grand Rapids as Assistant to the City Manager and Fiscal Services Manager/Purchasing Agent provided me with extensive experience with public finance from developing and administering the City’s Fiscal Plan, departmental budgets, and oversight of the City’s procurement process.  Additionally, I served as acting Director for the City’s Assessor’s Department and led the transformation of the department and its function to bring it into compliance with State law. I am eager to serve as Kent County Treasurer and apply my extensive experience in public finance in combination with my commitment to the people of Kent County.

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

The incumbent Kent County Treasurer has done an outstanding job in leading the financial management and operations of the County.  It is my interest to build on the County’s strong financial position and legacy of service.  I do have several areas of priority that I would like improve for the benefit of the County and its residents, including financial management, public outreach and engagement, and customer service focused innovations.

Beth White – County treasurer primary candidate

Party: Democrat

We the People 2020 Primary Election: State House of Representative candidates

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Note: For the Michigan Aug. 4 primary, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates for any seat where there is a contested primary in either party. For the general election, all candidates will be invited to record a We The People.

State of Michigan 72nd District House of Representatives

The 72nd District House of Representative seat covers the cities of Kentwood and Wayland, along with a portion of Cutlerville and the community of Dorr. For a district map, click here and then search for district 072.

There are three candidates, one a two-term incumbent Republican and two in the Democratic primary, seeking the 72nd District House of Representatives. They are Republican incumbent Steve Johnson of Wayland, and Democratic primary candidates Lily Cheng-Schulting of Kentwood and Cade Wilson of Kentwood.

Steven Johnson – Incumbent State Representative 72nd District

Party: Republican

Occupation: State Representative, 72nd District

Note: Did not submit answers to WKTV questions.

Lily Cheng-Schulting – Primary candidate State Representative 72nd District

Party: Democratic

Occupation: Community Organizer; Disability Advocate

Why did you decide to run for the 72nd District House of Representatives seat?

As a proven human rights and community advocate, I am running to move mountains for a more diverse, inclusive, fair, just, and better Michigan for everyone! Since I have created huge positive educational changes in Kent County, I will dedicate my same skills, experience, and energy to ensure quality mental health and disability services, single-payer healthcare, economic equity, education, racial and criminal justice, environment, and resources for small businesses and farms. I will always appreciate the opportunity to listen to everyone’s concerns, and I will remain committed to ensuring the best quality of life and future for everyone, including people who are vulnerable or marginalized. Moreover, as a mother of a child with autism and as a woman of color and an immigrant, I will also advocate fiercely to protect people against discrimination and to ensure justice, fairness, and equal human rights for everyone. I believe that the fierceness of my advocacy is proven, not through the arguments, but through positive systematic changes.

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

Healthcare, equity, education.

Cade Wilson – Primary candidate State Representative 72nd District

Party: Democratic

Occupation: Educator

Why did you decide to run for the 72nd District House of Representatives seat?

As an educator right here in our district, I have had the chance to work with hundreds of students and families and hear about the things that matter most to them. Last spring I went to Lansing to advocate for after-school educational programming in our district. When I met with our representative’s office, and I heard how the families I knew so well were talked about, I knew that I had to run. I immediately recognized that our representation did not reflect the families and values of our community. Our community is hardworking, loving, supportive, smart, kind, and diverse. I am in this race so that I can help amplify the voices of our community in ways that truly reflect our values.

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

Education — Equitable funding that supports students, teachers, and families. Health — We need accessible and affordable healthcare services (mental health services included), affordable medications, and clean drinking water. Opportunity — Invest in trade skills trainings for those that want to both enter and transition in the workforce. This also means we need to protect our workers in fair, just, and equitable systems that do not discriminate based on gender, age, or sexual orientation.

State of Michigan 77th District House of Representatives

The 77th District House of Representatives seat covers the City of Wyoming, Byron Township and a portion of Cutlerville. For a district map, click here and them search for district 077.

There are two candidates, one a two-term incumbent and one a Democratic challenger, seeking the 77th District House of Representatives. They are incumbent Republican Tommy Brann of Wyoming, and Democratic candidate Bob Smith of Byron Center.

Note: Neither party’s candidate has a challenge in the primary; both have been invited to record a We The People after the August primary.

We the People 2020 Primary Election: 8th District Kent County Commission

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, We The People

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

For the Kent County Commission race, there are a few races with two candidates running from the same party such as the Kent County Commission District 8th seat.

Long held by Harold Voorhees, Voorhees announced earlier this year that after more than 18 years as the 8th District Kent County commissioner, he would not seek re-election. Two Republican candidates and one Democrat candidate put their hats in the ring for the seat. For the Aug. 4 primary, voters will be deciding between Republican candidates Dan Burrill and Denise Kolesar with the winner facing off against Democrat candidate Sarah Chatterley in the Nov. 3 general election.

The 8th District Kent County Commission seat covers the eastern portion of the City of Wyoming, including the pan handle.  For specific boarders, visit accesskent.com.

Dan Burrill – Candidate (R)

Occupation: Residential real estate and builder

Why did you decide to seek election to the 8th District Kent County Commission seat?

My desire to serve started back on the student council for middle school. When I was older, I served on the Grandville Public Schools Board of Education and continued that obligation to serve our community by first being on the Wyoming Zoning Board of Appeals and currently on the Wyoming City Council. I believe if you have the ability and willingness to serve that you owe it to the local community to offer your tools, talents and time to help make it a better place. With Harold Voorhees stepping down after 18 years of serving Wyoming at the county level, I was encouraged by others to run for the 8th District Commission seat and continue the great job that Harold Voorhees has done and the success at the county level. 

If elected, what issue (s) would you immediately want to focus on and why?

I want to continue to assure that we have clean water throughout the county. I would want to make sure that there is adequate funding for mental health services, especially since COVID-19 has heighten awareness of such issues as violence and mental health. COVID-19 has brought forth a number of issues for businesses and health which the county will need to continue to focus on. 

Denise Kolesar – Candidate (R)

Occupation: Semi-retired from Kohler Expos/ Business Development Specialist for GROW

Why did you decide to seek election to the 8th District Kent County Commission seat?

For some time now it has been on my radar to run for office. With some encouragement from business leaders in the community the timing is right. I sold my business, Kohler Expos, back in 2016 and currently I am semi-retired, so I have the time commitment necessary to fulfill the position. I sit on the Kent County Parks Foundation Board and I am on the cabinet committee for Special Olympics. I have been drawn to public service all my life. It started with my parents being very involved in their communities, therefore it comes natural to me. The opportunity to publicly serve was clearly shown to me by the retirement of Commissioner Harold Voorhees. This position suits my passion to play a key role in public service. 

If elected, what issue (s) would you immediately want to focus on and why?

I believe the key issue for the county is COVID-19. At the forefront is how we safely handle the care of all people and how we communicate to the community which we serve as we tread through the unchartered waters of COVID-19. 

Kent District Library celebrates year of growth, changes and record numbers

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,

By Katie Zuidema
Kent District Library

The Kent District Library 2019 Annual Report tells the story of another year of new initiatives and increases in the use of library resources. The annual report is available for download at kdl.org/2019AnnualReport, highlighting numerous community needs that are routinely met by the library, including:

  • Nearly 3,000 children (kindergarten through third grade) launched to reading success with Mission: Read. 
  • The total number of active library card holders increased by 7 percent, bringing the total to 174,795. 
  • KDL was the first library in the United States to offer MagnusCards, a resource for people with autism and other special cognitive needs. 
  • A record number of people completed the annual summer reading program. 
  • Late fines for unreturned materials are traditionally thought of as a way to encourage people to return items, but since going fine free, the library has experienced a sharp increase in the speed and volume of returns. 
  • The KDL Bookmobile completed its first full year on the road, serving 22,421 people. 
  • The library was recognized as one of West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to work for, an honor that was raised to the national level earlier this year. 

“The needs in the community are constantly changing, and libraries are quick and agile in response,” said Lance Werner, KDL’s Executive Director. “Agility helped us to quickly respond to COVID-19. We’ve literally re-engineered the library, so people can enjoy nearly everything from the safety and convenience of their homes.” 


Since closing the library to public visits, KDL has pivoted to shift all programming online and launch curbside pickup. Additionally, the annual summer reading program has been totally reconfigured so people of all ages can fully participate from home using a workbook that was mailed to all cardholder households or through the new Beanstack app. 

 

In the months of May and June this year, circulation of digital materials increased 61 percent compared to the same months in 2019. 

Marking its 14th year, the Lakeshore Harvest Country offers an array of local farms, wineries to visit

Entertainment, Local Food, Local History, ,

Lakeshore Harvest Country is celebrating its 14th year as a Michigan agritourism trail by offering area residents and visitors an opportunity to come right to the farms and wineries in the West Michigan area.

The agritourism trail has seen an increase in the number of farms/wineries participating this year on its trail. They are all located between Saugatuck and South Haven along the Lake Michigan area. The farms and wineries come in all sizes and operated by families that have a love for what their doing. All of the members are now open. Due to Covid-19, they will also encourage you to please wear a mask and please practice social distancing.

The 2020 tour guide/map can be found at local businesses, tourism chambers and bureaus or you can download it on their website at www.lakeshoreharvestcountry.com. This tour guide provides what the members have to offer, locations, and hours of operation.

Beginning in July, there is a large variety of fruits, veggies, ciders, wines, cheeses, herbs, flowers, pottery, and more. Some of the farms also offer U-Pick blueberries, cherries, apples, raspberries and peaches. Kids can see farm animals such as chickens, ducks, goats, horses and cows. Other products for sale include pure honey and maple syrup, free-range eggs and much more. Call ahead to verify product availability and hours.

Looking for a little fun and adventure this growing season? There is an “Online” Farm Scavenger Hunt, July 1st to October 31st on their website. The Lakeshore Harvest Country’s Farm Scavenger Hunt will send you down country roads leading to some of the area’s most picturesque farms, not to mention some of the freshest locally grown fruits and vegetables around and you have an opportunity to win prizes.

2020 Members include: Barden’s Farm Markets, Brush Farms, Bumbleberry Acres, Cogdal Vineyards, Dee’s Lakeshore Farm, Evergreen Lane Creamery, Fenn Valley Vineyards & Winery, Khnemu Studio on Fernwood Farm, Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum, McIntosh Apple Orchards & Winery, Michigan Wine Company, Modales Winery, Overhiser Orchards, Pleasant Hill Farm, Riverbend Raspberries, Root, Salt of the Earth, The Sugarhouse at Ridley Family Sugar Farm, Summerhouse Lavender Farm, Van Til’s Greenhouse, Virtue Cider, Waypost Brewing Co.

Due to Covid-19–major events of road rally, bike ride, and arts and eats tour have been cancelled.

For a copy of the 2020 LHC brochure or for more information, call Theresa at (616) 638-6835 or visit www.lakeshoreharvestcountry.com.

2020 West Michigan Photo Contest now accepting entries

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner
West Michigan Tourist Association

The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) has announced the launch of their 2020 West Michigan Photo Contest. With so much beauty found in West Michigan, the West Michigan Tourist Association wants travelers to show off what they love most about this beautiful side of the state, and win some great West Michigan prizes! The contest is looking for traveler photo submissions from all around West Michigan. This region covers the entire west half of Michigan from the Indiana border to Mackinac Island and into the Upper Peninsula.

“We’re really looking forward to being able to share these great images of West Michigan this year,” said Courtney Sheffer, WMTA’s Marketing Director. “We love seeing the community involvement with this contest, and hope that people will find the images inspiring during a summer where they may not be able to travel as originally planned.” 

Sheffer also noted that photos do not need to be taken this month in order to submit them to the photo contest. “If you have West Michigan photos from your past visits to the area, we encourage you to enter those as well! West Michigan is photogenic all seasons of the year, so don’t feel that you’re only limited to submitting summer photos.”

All photo entries must be received by July 28th, 2020. Judges will be awarding prizes in the categories of “Nature,” “Downtown,” “People,” and “Beach/Lake,” with an additional prize awarded via public voting by WMTA’s Facebook audience. In addition to receiving a West Michigan prize pack, all winning photos will be featured in WMTA’s upcoming West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide, printed in January of 2021. 

Photo submissions should include first & last name of photographer, city where the photograph was taken, and a short description of the photo.

The accepted photo formats are high resolution (300 dpi+) jpeg/jpg or tiff. CMYK is preferred. Please visit the Photo Contest Page for full rule and entry requirements: https://www.wmta.org/2020-west-michigan-photo-contest/

2020 West Michigan Photo Contest Prizes:

Public Vote

Judge’s Choice:
Beach/Lake Category; People Category; Downtown Category; Nature Category

Talking to a loved one about assisted living

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living
Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living

By Vista Springs Assisted Living


Independence, the ability to age in place with the necessary care services, the cost savings compared to other care options, and the lively, active communities that are so different from traditional fears of nursing homes are all reasons why assisted living is an obvious choice for a senior care community. But it’s still not easy to talk to a loved one about making the big move. 


Putting off the conversation can lead to serious long-term consequences, so it’s important to have that discussion sooner rather than later—no matter how difficult it is. Here’s some of the best ways to plan for an open and honest talk with your loved one about making an assisted living community their new home. 

Signs to look out for

There may be a single specific reason or several smaller ones for wanting to move your loved one to an assisted living community, but here are a few common signs to be on the lookout for as your loved one ages.

  1. They are isolated are no longer socializing with others
  2. You aren’t sure if they are eating, or they are losing weight and consistently have an empty fridge
  3. They can no longer drive, or don’t have reliable transportation to necessary places (such as the doctor’s office or the grocery store)
  4. They have a steadily declining hygiene
  5. They have lost interest in activities they used to enjoy
  6. Their house is becoming dirty and cluttered
  7. They can’t remember where they are and get lost in familiar places—or are becoming forgetful in general (forgetting to pay bills, take important medications, turn off the oven, or take out the trash)
  8. They have fallen and injured themselves at home
  9. They need to be checked in on regularly
  10. They frequently need medical care

Prepare beforehand

It’s important that you go into the conversation with a solid plan. Get the essential family members—such as your siblings—involved and ensure that all of you are on the same page about what you want to talk to your family member about. You don’t want the conversation about assisted living to turn into a family argument, which only adds stress to an already stressful topic of discussion. 


It’s also important that you learn about different senior care options and go into the conversation informed—especially about why you recommend assisted living over a nursing home or home care. Have a list of communities that might be good fits and a detailed explanation of what types of daily care services and skilled medical care they provide at the ready. 

Find the right time

Picking the right time to bring up assisted living is essential to ensuring the conversation is productive. Make sure you do it in person, not over the phone. This will likely be a conversation that takes some time, so don’t try and squeeze it into a packed day. Make it a priority and clear your schedule. 


However, don’t hold the conversation during a holiday or family reunion—these events are special and you shouldn’t put a loved one on the spot during a happy celebration. Ensure that you find a neutral day and gather the family to talk to your loved one in a group setting that is comfortable, not accusatory. 

Communicate clearly

During the conversation, it’s important you stay calm and don’t let your emotions overtake the discussion. Be honest and upfront about your intentions during the talk, but don’t try to push your loved one into a decision that they aren’t yet ready for. 

Conversation starters

  • “Do you feel safe at home? Are you worried about what would happen if you fell or hurt yourself and no one was around?”
  • “Are you struggling with remembering important things?”
  • “Do you need help around the house that isn’t being provided right now? Are you able to cook meals and get to the store?”
  • “Do you miss being close to your friends or having plans for things to do?”
  • “Are you concerned about what’s going to happen to your independence or mobility as you age?”
  • “Would you like to feel more secure and have a community around you for support?”

Work together

The first conversation about assisted living shouldn’t be an immediate decision—after all, your loved one’s opinions and feelings should be at the center of the discussion and they need to be comfortable with moving forward. Working together to find the right community is key to ensuring that your loved one feels respected and included throughout the process. 


Research together with your family member and go on community tours with the family to help them feel confident in their choice of a new home. Remember—this is an incredibly difficult task your loved one is about to face. But by keeping their feelings at the heart of all decisions, the conversation about assisted living can lead to great things for your loved one. 


Reprinted with permission from Vista Springs Assisted Living.



Kent County: West Nile Virus found during health department mosquito surveillance

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Hard News, Health, Newscast, Our Cities, Recreation, ,
(Too) close-up of a West Nile mosquito. (U.S. Air Force)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Health Department announced last week that ongoing surveillance and testing conducted by the health department has revealed three presumptive positive instances of mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus in the county.

The discovery comes after testing pools of mosquito remains that were trapped in the 49504 and 49525 ZIP Codes in the City of Grand Rapids. But, the county statement advises, “It is important to note that these are not human cases.”

“Discovering these cases in mosquitoes should serve as a reminder to everyone who lives in West Michigan that West Nile Virus season is upon us,” Brendan Earl, supervising sanitarian at Kent County Health Department (KCHD), said in supplied material. “It is important for people to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites as much as possible.”

West Nile Virus is spread primarily by infected Culex mosquitoes. Only about 20 percent of the people infected will notice symptoms that may include headache, body aches, joint pains and fatigue. Most people with this type of West Nile virus completely recover, but fatigue may last for weeks or even months.

About 1 in 150 people infected develop severe illness that can affect the central nervous system. Recovery from this type of West Nile virus may take several months. Some damage to the central nervous system can be permanent. In rare instances the disease can lead to death.

 

Since there is no vaccine or cure for West Nile, the best treatment is prevention, according to the county statement. KCHD recommends wearing a mosquito repellant that contains 10–35 percent DEET, wearing light colored clothing and staying indoors during dusk.

Residents can also help stop mosquitoes from breeding by removing or refreshing water in bird baths, children’s wading pools, water bowls for your pets. Empty other small containers that can collect water in your yard and keeping your lawn and shrubs trimmed also help.

More information about prevention can be found at accesskent.com.

Circle Theatre hosts summer concert to help with costs

Entertainment, Local Entertainment
Many West Michigan performers will be participating in the Circle Theatre summer concert programs. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Circle Theatre, Grand Rapids’ go-to destination for exceptional theatrical arts in an intimate setting, will be partnering with Paddock Place on July 8, at 7 p.m. to kickoff the Circle Summer Fundraising Concert Series.

Grab your picnic blanket and beach chairs and join Circle Theatre and the Grand Rapids community on the lawn at Paddock Place for the start of the Circle Summer Fundraising Concert Series. This outdoor, family-friendly concert will feature musical highlights from past Circle concerts performed by Circle performers.

Social distancing between groups is required, so feel free to spread out and enjoy the great summer weather. Tickets are $25 and all proceeds go directly to Circle Theatre.

Patrons will have the option to add a 3-course Paddock Place Picnic Basket to the purchase of their tickets for an additional $30. Paddock Picnic Baskets are recommend for two. After purchasing tickets patrons will choose their three courses from a small menu found at circletheatre.org/ picnicmenu. Course options include a starter, main dish, and dessert. Options range from Hummus, Red Skin Potato salad, Carolina Shredded Pork, Vegetarian Sushi, Fruit and Ganache, Brownie Bites, and more. Bottles of wine are also available as an add-on to picnic baskets.

Circle Theatre is committed to keeping the health and safety of their patrons, volunteers, performers, and staff their top priority. It is because of this, that the decision to postpone their 68th season was made. This extended intermission has left Circle Theatre with the task of raising $200,000 to cover costs during this time. With the support of the community, Circle Theatre has raised $75,000 to date.

Additional fundraising and pop-up concerts will take place throughout the summer both at Paddock Place as well as on the lawn at Circle Theatre – dates and details to be announced.

Other ways to support Circle Theatre include purchasing one-of-a-kind art from local artists, Circle Theatre merchandise, donating, and engaging with the Circle Virtual Event Series. Details regarding supporting Circle Theatre can be found at circletheatre.org.

For more information on Circle Summer Fundraising Concert and to purchase tickets, please call the box office at 616-456-6656 or visit circletheatre.org.

Petoskey Stone celebrates 55 years as Michigan’s state stone

3-bottom, ,

Diane Stampfler
Promote Michigan

A popular pastime in Petoskey is reaching for the state’s stone, the Petoskey stone. (needpix.com)

Most Michiganders (or Michiganians, depending on your preference) know that the Petoskey stone is the state’s official “state stone.” But just how and when did that come to be?

Let’s go back…way back…for a bit of geological history first.

Glaciers moved rocks, fossilized ancient coral, bedrock and soil throughout what is now Michigan millions of years ago, carving out the Great Lakes and depositing a wealth of natural treasures beneath them. Over time, the waves churned these waters and in turn polished pieces into rocks of all shapes, sizes and configurations—including Petoskey stones.

In the early 1900s, there were mentions of Petoskey stone in regional newspapers, but these referred to rocks harvested from shoreline gravel banks by the Petoskey Stone & Lime Company (incorporated in 1904), not the identifiable hexagon laden stones coveted and collected today.

One of the earliest printed accounts of actual “Petoskey stones” appeared in a handful of newspapers in October 1923—including the Palladium-Item of Richmond, Indiana and The Ithaca Journal in Ithaca, New York—as part of a Q&A section, authored by Information Bureau Director Frederick J. Haskin out of Washington D.C.

  • How is Petoskey stone polished? — C.A.L.
  • Petoskey stone is silicified fossil and is polished like agate. Various polishing powders, such as tin-oxide, chromium-oxide and iron-oxide are used.



A fascinating story appeared in the March 3, 1924 issue of the Battle Creek Enquirer in Battle Creek, Michigan about a large Petoskey stone that served as a paperweight on the desk of Phil Ross of the Central National Bank. At some point, E.M. Brigham, curator of the museum of the Battle Creek Public Schools, was consulted about the stone and its origin.

“Petoskey stone, rare? Why hardly, as many stones of that type are to be found between Lake Avenue and Coldwater Street [in Battle Creek], as there are in all of the Petoskey sector.

In 1969, geologist Dr. Edwin C. Stumm, Professor of Geology and Curator of Paleozoic Invertebrates at the University of Michigan, made the formal determination that what was thought to be a Petoskey “stone” was actually fossilized colonial coral of the genus and species Hexagonaria percarinata. (Wikipedia)

“’Well then,’ said his inquirer, ‘why are Petoskey stones called by that name?’

“The answer was ‘Battle Creek people haven’t time to run around town picking up stones. In Petoskey, all they have to do is wander over the beaches and they naturally run on to the stones, which of course have to be polished before they take the luster which makes them so popular. Petoskey curio dealers have helped the thing along by polishing them in not too large numbers and placing them in their windows for sale, along with some other stones, which are not native to the region.’”

This region of Michigan seemed to have a particular interest in Petoskey stones, as the paper ran another story on August 30, 1931 which read:

“The pretty Petoskey stone which was plentiful 20 or more years ago, appears like a coral formation. The native children along the shore of the lake in the vicinity of Petoskey watch for the waves to wash up these pretty stones with each incoming wave, and gather them for the tourist trade. The stones are sold to the souvenir booths. They are given a high polish which turns each spot into a gleaming eye.”

So, while these unique natural souvenirs have been rolling around the Lake Michigan shoreline for eons, they weren’t actually identified, sold and widely collected for the past 100 years or so (that we know of).

Fast forward to the spring of 1965.

In May, Michigan State Representatives Eugene R. Cater (D-Ludington) and Stanley Powell (R-Ionia) introduced House Bill 2297 to designate the Petoskey stone as the state’s official stone. It passed by a vote of 79-19 on Wednesday, May 19, 1965. The next month, Michigan Senator Thomas F. Schweiger (R-Petoskey) introduced a similar bill in the Senate which was passed 23-9 on Monday, June 14, 1965.

From there, it was off to Governor George Romney for signing during a special ceremony on Monday, June 28, 1965. Also in attendance were Rep. Cater, Rep. Powell and Princess Ella Jane Petoskey — granddaughter of Chief Petoskey for whom the city was named — whose participation was made possible by the Grand Valley Rock and Mineral Society. Ella presented a bit about her legendary grandfather and at the end of the ceremony was presented with the pen used by the governor in signing the bill, while Rep. Cater presented the governor himself with a tie clasp and cuff link set made of Petoskey stones to commemorate the day’s significance.

Interesting enough, it wasn’t until 1969 that geologist Dr. Edwin C. Stumm, Professor of Geology and Curator of Paleozoic Invertebrates at the University of Michigan, made the formal determination that what was thought to be a Petoskey “stone” was actually fossilized colonial coral of the genus and species Hexagonaria percarinata.

If you’re looking to do a little rock hunting for Petoskey stones start at the breakwall in downtown Petoskey, Magnus City Park Beach on West Lake Street and Petoskey State Park on M-119 on the way to Harbor Springs. A little tip for new hunters…spring (after the snow and ice melt) and following windy thunderstorms are prime times to find Petoskey stones as the waves have moved them along the bottom of the lake to the shoreline. Please note that Michigan law limits the amount of stones that can be collected to 25 pounds per person, per year.

And if you can’t find any on your own, many of of Petoskey’s downtown retail shops sell them (polished and unpolished).

MICHIGAN STATE SYMBOLS

  • State Flower: Apple Blossom (1897)
  • State Bird: American Robin (1931)
  • State Stone: Petoskey Stone (1965)
  • State Fish: Trout (1965) (Specified Brook Trout in 1988)
  • State Gem: Chlorastrolite (1972)
  • State Soil: Kalkaska Sand (1990)
  • State Reptile: Painted Turtle (1995)
  • State Mammal: White-Tailed Deer (1997)
  • State Wildflower: Dwarf Lake Iris (1998)
  • State Fossil: Mastodon (2002)



About the author

Dianna Stampfler is the president of Promote Michigan and the author of the best-selling book “Michigan’s Haunted Lighthouses.” She loves traveling around the Great Lakes state and currently calls Walloon Lake her home.

Snapshots: Our July 4 weekend — patriotism, fireworks, pets and parades

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Food, Going Local, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air … Gave proof thru the night that our flag was still there … Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave … O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?”

The Star Spangled Banner

The day it all got started

In honor of the 244th 4th of July since American independence was declared against Great Britain, WKTV Journal is sharing with you a Youtube clip from the HBO miniseries, “John Adams” that features the reading of the Declaration after it’s passage on the steps of Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

(City of Kentwood)

Watch a parade from your (Kentwood) lawn

The City of Kentwood announced to WKTV this week that a dozen or so city vehicles will parade throughout the community on Saturday, July 4, as a way “to celebrate Independence Day safely in lieu of its traditional celebration activities this year.” Go here for the story.

(Kent County Animal Shelter)

Take care of your pets when things go ‘boom!’

The Kent County Animal Shelter has published a video with steps on how to help pets cope with fireworks.

Catch some fireworks, but play it safe

4th of July fireworks and other “responsible fun” is available this weekend. Go here and here for stories.

Fun fact:

150 million

According to the National Hot Dog & Sausage Council, on the Fourth of July alone, 150 million dogs get consumed – enough to stretch between L.A. and Washington, D.C., more than five times. Source.

Rail crossing work to close Breton Avenue between 29th and 32nd starting July 7

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Hard News, Local Business, Newscast, Our Cities, Travel, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, ,
(WKTV video/K.D. Norris)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood announced July 1 that beginning Tuesday, July 7, Breton Avenue will be closed for at least two days between 29th and 32nd streets while CSX Railroad repairs a railroad crossing.

Drivers are asked to plan ahead as the work will require a full closure with a posted detour from 29th Street to Shaffer Avenue to 32nd Street and back, according to the city’s statement.

Due to the deterioration of the crossing, CSX will be replacing the entire concrete crossing, ties and repaving the asphalt at that intersection.

The work is expected to be completed within two days with the road reopening on the evening of Thursday, July 9, but a third day of work may be necessary for unforeseen circumstances, according to the city.

Kent District Library delays reopening of branches

3-bottom, , ,
The Kent District Library (KDL) Kentwood Branch Library. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

The planned reopening of Kent District Library to the public on July 6 will be delayed. A new date for reopening has not been determined but will depend on a sustained improvement in the coronavirus situation. Curbside pickups, availability of exterior drop boxes for returns, livestreamed programs and expansion of digital resources is unaffected by the delay in opening the library for public access. 

 

Due to the increased incidence and risk of coronavirus, KDL has made the difficult decision to keep the library closed to the public. The Leadership Team of KDL places the safety of patrons and staff as the highest priority.

 

“Although Kent County is in a better situation than many other areas, we are committed to helping to create a sustained improvement. Right now, the trend needs to be turned around,” explains Lance Werner, Executive Director of KDL.

 

Changes that have been made in library service since mid-March have been well received. The library immediately shifted programming to be livestreamed and online. Due dates for all items were extended and exterior book drops opened for returns on June 8. The introduction of curbside service on June 15 has enabled people to checkout materials from the convenience of their car. Additionally, the library added 700 new Wi-Fi hotspots, which will be mailed to homes needing internet access.

These changes, in conjunction with increasing checkout limits on digital resources, allow people to have continued use of most of the library services that they depend upon and expect.

 

The status of library services is continuously updated on the kdl.org website.

Michigan Winery receives top honors at international wine competition

Entertainment, ,
Brengman Brothers is located at 9270 S. Center Hwy., Traverse City. (Brengman Brothers)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Something us Michiganers know: you do not have to head to Napa Valley for some of the nation’s best wines, just head north to Traverse City.

Robert Brengman announced that his Rosé winning Best of Show in the most prestigious international competition provides once again Michigan is a world class wine producer.

“Napa Valley, get used to seeing Traverse Wine Coast in the same announcement on capturing crowns at wine competitions” Brengman said. He is the winemaker at Brengman Brothers Winery in Leelanau County, Mich.

The June 26 Rose´ judging at the prestigious American Fine Wine Competition in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, is by invitation only.

The Brengman Brothers Pinot Noir Dry Rosé from Crain Hill Vineyards Block 7 received the Best of Show in the Dry Rosé Category at The Rosé Competition 2020.

“Just being invited is an honor,” Brengman said. “Winning Best is the pinnacle.” He said this wine is a true Pinot Noir Dry Rosé from Crain Hill Vineyards Block 7.

The Rosé Competition 2020 received a total of 150 entries and the sixteen esteemed wine judges awarded 14 Double Gold Medals, 28 Gold Medals and 50 Silver Medals.

Under the auspices of the American Fine Wine Competition, the judges selected Brengman Brothers, Block 7 ($25), from Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan, as Best of Show in the Dry Rosé Category.  This Pinot Noir from Crain Hill Vineyard hit all the right notes and captivated the assembled judges.  Some of the comments made by the judges:  Said Sarah Phillips, wine writer and educator at the Florida Wine Academy: “This Rosé has a fruity, expressive nose, good concentration, watermelon, peach… I want to drink it all day!”  “It’s Singing!” Said Judge Zack Foley, Wine Director at the Boatyard, Ft. Lauderdale.

Many wineries from the Traverse Wine Coast region are invited and have progressively taken the top medals and higher scores in the past few years against a tough competition from the best national and international wineries.

“Soon it will not be necessary to mention Michigan after Leelanau Peninsula, just as California is no longer is required to be tagged onto Napa Valley,” Brengman said.

“Our terroir — the glacial soil, microclimate, weather pulse, peninsular mists and 45th Parallel location — all combine to produce some of the finest wines in the world.”

Brengman added that “recognition in international competition against top contenders is gratifying affirmation.”

This year judges delayed the Rose´ contest, which traditionally was in March after the general competition in January.

Local back-to-school plans well underway as Governor announces ‘roadmap’ guidance

3-bottom, Area Education, Education, Hard News, Kentwood Public Schools, ,
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer at a press conference. (Official Facebook page)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Some people may have been waiting, if not eagerly anticipating, the June 30 release of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “MI Safe Schools Return to School Roadmap”, which outlined a number of safety protocols for schools to implement in each phase of the governor’s MI Safe Start Plan.

While local school district leaders undoubtedly will scour the governor’s roadmap for pertinent details and direction, they and their district staff were not idly awaiting the release — after all, Gov. Whitmer admits that different school districts will have different “return to school” situations depending on location within the state, physical building situation and their community make up.

“In Kentwood Public Schools we put together a Back To School Task Force consisting of administrators, teachers and parents that have been working on multiple plans for the reopening of our district,” Michael Zoerhoff, superintendent of Kentwood Public Schools, said to WKTV. “We also have been working closely with the Kent ISD reopening committees. Our plan is to adjust accordingly to ensure the safety of our students and staff per the Governor’s recommendations.”

Wyoming Public Schools superintendent, Craig Hoekstra, echoed his regional educational counterpart.

“The WPS team has been hard at work developing plans that will provide safe and accessible learning options for the fall,” Hoekstra said to WKTV. “As we prepare for re-entry, our district continues to plan forward with a focus on developing a robust online learning option as well as preparing for instructional re-entry for in-person learning. In doing so, it takes into consideration the unfinished learning from the spring. As soon as the Governor’s plan is released, we will review our plans and make the needed adjustments as we work towards finalization.”

The governor’s roadmap outlines a number of safety protocols for schools to implement in each phase of the governor’s MI Safe Start Plan — including guidance on personal protective equipment (PPE), hygiene and cleaning protocols, spacing in classrooms, athletics, and much more.

As far as fall high school sports is concerned, at a press conference announcing the governor’s back-to-school guidance, Gov. Whitmer said she is in discussion with the Michigan High School Athletics Association (MHSAA) to possibly move some fall 2020 sports to spring 2021.
 

Detailed guidance on fall athletics — including any possible shift of sports season — is expected to be announced in mid- to late-July by the MHSAA, which has been working with the governor’s office to guide summer and possible fall in-school athletic activities.

Also on June 30, the governor signed Executive Order 2020-142, which “provides a structure to support all schools in Michigan as they plan for a return of PreK-12 education in the fall,” according to a statement from the Governor’s office Tuesday.

(Links to the governor’s MI Safe Schools Return to School Roadmap and Executive Order 2020-142 are at the end of this story.) 

“Our students, parents, and educators have made incredible sacrifices during our battle with COVID-19,” Gov. Whitmer said in the statement. “Thanks to our aggressive action against this virus, the teachers who have found creative ways to reach their students, and the heroes on the front lines, I am optimistic that we will return to in-person learning in the fall.

“The MI SafeSchools Return to School Roadmap will help provide schools with the  guidance they need as they enact strict safety measures to continue protecting educators, students, and their families.”

In her statement, the governor also acknowledged the financial impact on schools not only to enact “safe return to school” in the fall, but the looming financial shortfalls in state school funding due to the economic impact of COVID-19.

“I will continue working closely with the Return to Learn Advisory Council and experts in epidemiology and public health to ensure we get this right, but we also need more flexibility and financial support from the federal government,” Gov. Whitmer said in supplied material. “This crisis has had serious implications on our budget, and we need federal support if we’re going to get this right for our kids.”

(To learn more about the possible financial impact on school funding of the COVID-19 economic downturn, see a WKTV story and Kent ISD videos here.)

Two local education leaders are part of the Return to Learn Advisory Council, including Kevin Polston, superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, and Nicholas J. Paradiso, vice president of government relations for National Heritage Academies.

“All of us on the Return to Learn Advisory Council share a commitment to marrying science and evidence, and practicality and local needs to ensure the health and safety of our students and educators,” Tonya Allen, President and CEO of The Skillman Foundation and Chair of the Return to Learn Advisory Council, said in supplied material.

The governor’s Executive Order 2020-142 requires school districts to adopt a COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan “laying out how they will protect students and educators across the various phases of the Michigan Safe Start Plan.”

The MI Safe Schools Return to School Roadmap offers guidelines as to the types of safety protocols that will be required or recommended at each phase, according to the statement.

“In recognition that these protocols will cost money, the Governor also announced that she was allocating $256 million to support the districts in implementing their local plans as part of the bipartisan budget agreement the Senate Majority Leader, the Speaker of the House, and the governor announced” June 29.

MI-Safe-Schools-Roadmap-June-30-2020Download
Executive-Order-2020-142-COVID-19-June-30-2020Download

Fourth of July events, fireworks around West Michigan

Citizen Journalism, ,
Mackinaw City and St. Igance are just some of the places hosting fireworks for July 4th. .

By West Michigan Tourist Association

Find 4th of July fireworks, porch decorating contests, late night kayak floats, special golf outings, and more to enjoy in West Michigan this month! 

 

Due to COVID-19, many summer events throughout Michigan are being updated and changed on a daily basis. While this article was accurate to the best of our knowledge upon publication, we strongly suggest confirming with festival organizers before making plans to attend the below events.

4th of July Celebrations

Silver Lake’s Thunder Over the Dunes fireworks event is scheduled to take place at 10:00 pm on July 4th at Silver Lake Sand Dunes State Park in Mears.

Celebrate America at Vacation Station RV Resort in Ludington with bingo, tie dye crafts, bike and golf cart parade, site decorating and a pancake breakfast on July 4th!

The Ludington Area Jaycees Porch Decorating Contest will be held throughout greater Mason County to celebrate Independence Day. Dress up your outdoor area with red, white and blue for this new, festive event with chances to win a prize. Find details on the Jaycees’ website.

Saturday, July 4, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. is the 4th annual Heykoop Veteran Memorial Car Show & Benefit at the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum in Muskegon, benefiting Lighthouse For Veterans and the fight against Veteran suicide. There will be DJ’d music, vendors, Pinning Ceremony, 50/50 Raffle, Silent and two live auctions, as well as a bounce house and face painting for the kids.

Northern Michigan’s Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire is getting a jump start on celebrating Independence Day this year. Kick off the holiday weekend with fireworks on Friday, July 3rd. Make a weekend of it and stay, golf, hike or just relax and reconnect with family.

The Harbor Springs Chamber of Commerce hopes to capture some of the holiday spirit by organizing a #SafeHarbor 4th of July online celebration to create a driving tour of patriotic homes, businesses, and vehicles. Local residents and businesses are encouraged to decorate their homes, businesses, and vehicles and post the pictures on the chamber’s Facebook page. Please include the address of home or business of pictures sent in. Photos will be shared on social media, as well as the chamber newsletter and website. Contest will honor the best of these categories: Most Patriotic Business, Most Patriotic Home, Most Patriotic Family, and Most Patriotic Vehicle. 

Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau looks forward to seeing everyone in Mackinaw City for fireworks on the 4th of July.

Fourth of July Fireworks will take place in St. Ignace at dusk and there will be fireworks every Saturday night after that through Labor Day Weekend.

Although the Independence Day Parade has been cancelled, the Sault Ste. Marie 4th of July fireworks will still be taking place at dusk.

More Events and Happenings in July 

Harbor Springs will host the Blessing of the Fleet boat parade.

Harbor Springs Area Historical Society will be hosting the Blessing of the Fleet boat parade July 2 at 6 p.m. on Little Traverse Bay. This annual event, now in its eighth year, is the official start of summer in Harbor Springs and honors the rich maritime history of the area. Vessels of all shapes and sizes are welcome to take part and decorations are encouraged. When registering, participants can select from several options which include offers of commemorate baseball caps.

Crystal Mountain will be hosting several Fourth of July activities that include the Alpine slide, activities, laser tag, campfires, bike parade, golf scramble, and chairlift rides with live entertainment. Activities run July 1 to July 5. For more information, visit www.crystalmountain.com.

Cornwell’s Turkeyville in Marshall welcomes back the Flea Market & Antique Show 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. July 3 – 5.

Put your paddles in the river on July 4 with Guy’s Ultimate Kayak Service in Muskegon for a 1 & 1/2 hour full moon float at the Hungry Ghost Moon Full Moon Kayak Float. Your float includes a kayak, paddle, life vest, glow stick, and transport back to your vehicle. Kayak owners are welcome to join, but must provide transport for themselves and their kayaks upstream. Book your float online or call 231-740-0227 for more information.

During what would have been the National Cherry Festival week in Traverse City (July 4 – 11), members of the community are invited to join in the Very Cherry Porch Parade by decorating their porch, yard, or window to bring a smile to your friends and neighbors. The theme of the porch parade is cherries to celebrate the region’s favorite fruit! The Very Cherry Porch Parade will take place from July 4 to July 11. Registration is quick, simple and free.

Robinnette’s Apple Hause Barnyard Sale will be held at the Grand Rapids farm July 8 – 11.

If you’ve never experienced a fresh Michigan sweet cherry picked right off the tree, then you’re in for a real treat!  Lewis Adventure Farm and Zoo in New Era is celebrating cherry season with everything from food to fun. Bring your family and friends to enjoy cherry donuts, cherry pie, cherry orchard tours, U-pick cherries, cherry pit spitting contest, and so much more at the Cherry Jubliee, July 11 and 12. 

Enjoy a Ladies Day and golf clinic on July 19 at The Lynx Golf Club in Otsego.  Options for either 9 holes, or 18 holes with a skills clinic by Patti Butcher, LPGA.  Register online at migolfleague.com.

Come shoot sporting clays at Blendon Pines Gun Club in Zeeland! Great for families or friends, as you are outside and can easily distance in the fresh air! It’s like golf with a gun. New shooters, no problem! Onsite instructors will start you with a safety talk and demonstration.  Great for couples, families, small groups and those seeking a new experience. Full gun store, with ammo, clothing, guns, flashlights, knives, hats, shirts, and more available onsite. Blendon Pines is open Wednesday through Saturday. For more, call 616-875-7000 or visit Blendon Pines online.

Photo of the Week: Strawberry Fields

Citizen Journalism

Believe it or not, but 53 percent of seven- to nine-year-olds say that strawberries are their favorite fruit. Good thing we are in the mid of Michigan’s strawberry season which can run into mid-July. Many farmers are reporting late crops for strawberries this year, but even so, remember that Michigan’s strawberry season is short. These beauties were at the Metro Health Farm Market which is every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in front of Wyoming’s Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.

Do you have a photo you would like to be considered for photo of the week? Then send it to WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma at joanne@wktv.org.

Local trumpeter kicks of Sounds of Summer series tomorrow

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Max Colley III kicks off the Sounds of Summer concert series tomorrow. (Supplied/Max Colley III)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Trumpeter extraordinaire Max Colley III will kick off the 2020 Sounds of Summer concert series tomorrow at Cutler Park.

The popular concert series is one of the few free concert series that will take place this summer. The concert is set for 7 p.m. and organizer Patty Williams said there will be social distancing guidelines including groups sitting at least six feet a part.

Colley has earned many honors over the years including being named the 2014 Musician of the Year by the West Michigan Jazz Society. He has performed with several area groups such as the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra, The Truth in Jazz Orchestra and Gumbo Nuveau, as well as his own Max Colley III Quartet. 

Through his Facebook, Colley has stated he is excited about being able to performing considering so many summer concerts have been cancelled. 

“I always look forward to this and try and keep it fresh and new each year,” Colley wrote on his Facebook page. He has been part of the Sounds of Summer concert series for about 20 years. “It will be hot, but I guarantee it won’t be snowing!”

Joining Colley on stage is Jordan VanHemert on sax, Kazuki Takemura on bass, Elijah Cosby on drums, and Colley will be trumpet and drums. 

The Sounds of Summer includes family friendly activities. All performers start at 7 p.m. The shows are sponsored by Byron Township. 

“We know that people really look forward to this,” said Byron Township Supervisor Tom Hooker about the annual Sounds of Summer concert series. “We just felt this was an opportunity for people to get out and look forward to something that was different.”

Upcoming performances include Jaded July 9, Oat Bran Boys July 16, Dusty Chaps July 23 and LWND July 30. For more information about the Sounds of Summer, click here. 

The fan—friend or foe?

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If the ambient air is warmer than your body temperature, you might increase your core temperature if you try to cool down with a fan. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Dennis Thompson, HealthDay


Thinking of picking up an electric fan to help keep you cool and protect your health during the next heat wave?


You might want to think again.


Electric fans might make you feel cooler, but they can actually increase your risk of becoming heat sick and even dying from a heat stroke, the evidence shows.


Electric fans could contribute to a potentially dangerous increase in a person’s core heat if outdoor temperatures exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit, a recent Cochrane evidence review says.


“The fan actually will be blowing air that is hotter than our body at us,” said co-author Mike Clarke, director of the Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit at Queen’s University Belfast.


It’s like switching on an electric oven’s convection fan to speed up the cooking process, the researchers said.


Meanwhile, another new study found that electric fans are particularly dangerous during very hot and dry conditions, but can help lower core temperatures and heart strain in hot, humid weather. That study appears in a recent issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.


Electric fans are seen as a cheap way to help people cope with the several days of high temperatures that make up a heat wave, researchers for the Cochrane review said.


Global warming means heat waves will become more frequent and they can have terrible health consequences.


As many as 30,000 people died during a European heat wave in August 2003, while a Moscow heat wave in 2010 was responsible for nearly 11,000 deaths, the researchers noted.


The Cochrane review team found that there’s not a lot of research related to the effectiveness of electric fans, even though they’ve been around for well over a century. No studies at all met their review criteria, which were looking for experiments directly comparing electric fans with no fans.


They did find several studies that had looked at the effectiveness of cooling options employed during heat waves, however.


These studies had mixed results, with some suggesting that an electric fan might increase the risk of dying during a heat wave.


Fans don’t cool us down by circulating cooler air, Clarke noted. The air moving through a fan is the same temperature as the surrounding environment.


Instead, they cool us by speeding up evaporation of our sweat. That means fans also are causing our bodies to lose water faster.


According to Dr. Teresa Amato, head of emergency medicine at Northwell Health’s Long Island Jewish Forest Hills, in Forest Hills, N.Y., “If you sweat more and don’t replace it quickly with fluids, there is a theoretical increased risk of dehydration, which could potentially put a person at greater risk for heat stroke or heat-related illness.”


If the ambient air is warmer than the human body, then the air blowing from the fan could actually increase a person’s core temperature, the researchers explained.


For the new study, Australian researchers exposed volunteers for two hours to laboratory conditions that mimicked two different types of heat waves.


One condition was very hot and dry, the same as the peak conditions of the July 2018 California heat wave, with a heat index of about 115 degrees Fahrenheit.


The other condition involved a hot, humid day with a heat index of 133 degrees Fahrenheit, similar to a July 1995 heat wave in Chicago.


The experiment showed that electric fans lowered volunteers’ core temperature and heart strain in the humid condition, but were detrimental in weather that was less hot but very dry.


“Bottom line is that during a heat wave, the safest thing is to be in a cool, air-conditioned area,” Amato said. “If that is not possible in your own home or dwelling, you should seek out ‘cooling stations’ throughout your community. Once there is an alert that a heat wave is coming, many local health departments work to identify these safer alternatives and will use places such as libraries and schools.”


People who stay home and rely on an electric fan should remain aware of signs of heat-related illness, such as nausea, muscle cramps or headaches, she said.


“Be mindful to check on elderly neighbors who might not have working air conditioners and are relying on electrical fans,” Amato added. “They are at a much higher risk and they may not show signs of heat-related illness until they are critically ill.”


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Continuing service in time of COVID, Streams of Hope reopens food center, joins with CirclesGR

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The Streams of Hope Food Center will be reopening to visits by the public. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The nonprofit community center Streams of Hope announced June 29 that its client-choice Food Center will reopen its physical storefront beginning July 2. The Food Center serves more than 500 families in Kentwood’s Townline neighborhood with supplemental food assistance.

As part of its efforts to help “alleviate financial stress during the coronavirus pandemic,” the Food Center has remained active throughout the shutdown utilizing a drive-thru format, and in recent weeks saw a 50 percent increase in visitors, according to a statement from Streams of Hope.

To ensure safe shopping at the Food Center, visitors will make an appointment online and receive a health check before entering the building with a face mask.
 

In addition, Streams of Hope announced it had acquired CirclesGR to “invest in long-term solutions to poverty.”

“We are excited to re-open the Food Center and bring CirclesGr into our family of programs,” Kurtis Kaechele, Streams of Hope executive director, said in supplied material. “We are creating a healthier neighborhood together, alongside our community.”
 

Programs like the Food Center address urgent needs, while CirclesGR will implement long-term solutions to assist families, according to Streams of Hope. Other programs at Streams of Hope include SpringGR, from which 14 entrepreneurs will graduate this summer, and a reduced-cost health clinic in partnership with Exalta Health which will also re-open in July.
 

“Part of our purpose is to raise the poverty IQ of allies and of the community,” Julie Liske, CirclesGR director, said in supplied material. “Poverty is complex: root causes, systemic barriers, and the impact not only on the family but the whole community. CirclesGR offers a holistic way of looking at both poverty and prosperity, and how we might be able to empower more individuals to reach a place of economic independence.”

Liske will temporarily stay on staff with Streams of Hope “to ensure a smooth transition,” according to Streams of Hope.

Streams of Hope is a community-based ministry in the Townline neighborhood of Kentwood. For more information visit streamsofhope.org. For more information  on CirclesGR visit circlesgr.org.

SpartanNash Foundation teams up with store guests to support military heroes

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By Allison Benczkowski
SpartanNash Foundation

As part of its commitment to building stronger communities and serving those who served, the SpartanNash Foundation invites store guests to take part in its companywide fundraising effort, supporting military heroes and their families. The SpartanNash Foundation’s fundraising effort will run July 1-12, and all funds raised will be evenly split between nonprofit organizations Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB), Operation Homefront and Honor and Remember.

SpartanNash Foundation grants will be used to connect servicemembers, veterans and their families to their local communities through physical and social activity, provide critical financial assistance and family support services and honor those who lost their lives defending our freedoms. 

During the 12-day scan, store guests who visit any participating SpartanNash-owned retail store or fuel center in nine states will have the opportunity to donate $1, $5 or $10 at any checkout lane, or round their total up to the nearest dollar to support the trio of patriotic partners. More than 150 stores are participating in the Foundation scan, primarily under the banners of Family Fare, D&W Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery and Dan’s Supermarket.

For the first time, 20 Martin’s Super Markets in Michigan and Indiana will also take part in the SpartanNash Foundation scan campaign, introducing the Foundation and its mission to Martin’s store guests for the first time.

“One of our company’s core values is patriotism, and we are deeply committed to serving our military heroes and their families both at home and abroad,” said Kathy Mahoney, SpartanNash Chief Legal Officer and President of the SpartanNash Foundation Board of Trustees. “We do so by contributing thousands of dollars, products and volunteer hours to military and veterans organizations and events each year, as well as hiring veterans and military-connected associates as a Military Friendly® and veteran-friendly employer. 

“In partnership with Team RWB, Operation Homefront and Honor and Remember, our Foundation scan is another unique and powerful way we can support our military heroes and ensure they have access to the benefits they have earned and the camaraderie they need. What better time to join with our store guests to support our military heroes than leading up to the Fourth of July, when we celebrate the freedoms they protect.”

Since 2016, the SpartanNash Foundation has raised and granted more than $1 million for its patriotic partners through its fundraising scan campaigns, benefitting veterans service organizations including Give an Hour, Fisher House Foundation, Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc., Disabled Veterans National Foundation and in 2020, Team RWB, Operation Homefront and Honor and Remember.