Video Courtesy of Nate Diedrich WTKV Community Media
Saturday, September 20, was a sunny, muggy, pre-fall day for Kentwood families to explore the Fall Flea Market, Craft Sale, and Bake Sale at the Kentwood Activities Center. The center, located on 48th Street between Eastern and Division Avenues, was a hive of activity. Lorraine Beloncis, the Senior Enrichment Coordinator for the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department, was pleased, “We are completely full—41 booths were rented!”
Always a popular event, the fall market has been occurring for 15 years while the spring flea market is in its 26th year.
“They provide funding for the Senior Enrichment Programs including travel, card days, exercise classes, and special luncheons,” explained Beloncis.
The smell of homemade sloppy joes filled the vendor area, while senior volunteers manned the well-stocked bake sale tables, including home-canned jellies and jams made from fresh local rhubarb, strawberries and Michigan cherries.
The Flea Market, Craft Sale, and Bake sale is indeed billed as a “Trifecta of Treasures.” A one-stop shopping opportunity for back-to-school bargain hunters, connoisseurs of fine craftsmanship, and lovers of sweets. Booths included treasures from jewelry to wood working, collectibles to homemade soaps and lotions. There was even a booth for a free computerized neck and spine evaluation courtesy of Dr. Mark Wolfmann of the MaximizedLiving Center!
The Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission was represented by 15-year Chairperson Esther Middlewood, and Commissioner, Jackie Moore. Their welcoming table offered beautiful bound copies of The Story of Kentwood including stories of longtime residents, as well as historical facts about the city.
Ms. Middlewood was also there to let the community know that there are currently 2 vacant Commission seats available. If you are interested in preserving and disseminating knowledge of Kentwood, you are encouraged to contact the Historic Preservation Commission at (616) 554-0709.
Judging by the number of cars and shoppers, the Fall Flea Market was a great success. If you missed it, you can wait until spring, but in the meantime there are other Kentwood events coming up:
September 27, 2014 Free Quilt Show “Every Quilt Has a Story” featuring Bette Jones Boulding at the Kentwood Branch Library. Door prizes include a beautiful quilt donated by Charles Osborn , designed by Grandma Annie.
October 16, 2014 Huddle Up Health Fair and Flu Shots at the Kentwood Activities Center—355 48th Street. Information available from health organizations, and local businesses including beauty, health, home care, housing, education, employment, finances, legal aide, medications, mobility aids, nutrition and much , much more.
