Category Archives: Citizen Journalism

Women’s History Month: Local businesswomen sees advantages in catering business

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Food, Local Business, Local Food, Recreation, Restaurants, West Michigan, , , , ,

NOTE: For Women’s History Month we are featuring local female business leaders. We start our series with Nancy Jacob, who with her husband Mike own Apple Spice Box Lunch Delivery and Catering Co.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Nancy Jacobs is co-owner with her husband Mike of Apple Spice Box Lunch Delivery and Catering, Co. (WKTV)

When you meet Nancy Jacobs, you can’t help feel she is the neighbor you just want to have a sandwich and soda with while discussing the day’s ups and downs.

If that does happen, Jacobs can definitely supply the sandwich and beverage of choice as her and her husband Mike are the owners of Apple Spice, a box lunch delivery and catering company located off of 68th Street.

“We often joke that when Nancy goes out our sales go up,” said Mike Jacobs.

Nancy Jacobs is the face of the operation. She is the one who will load up with samples and then head out to visit with local businesses, encouraging prospective clients to try what Apple Spice has to offer.

“I think because many of the people I meet are often women who are the gatekeepers when it comes to planning events at the business, it is a lot easier for me to get connected with the right person,” Nancy Jacobs said, adding that about 80 percent of her contact is woman-to-woman.  Jacobs’ husband agrees that for their business, Nancy Jacobs’ ability to network has helped to make Apple Spice successful.

Nancy Jacobs noted that teachers love the heavy duty box that Apple Spice’s box lunch comes in, using the boxes for a variety of purposes. (WKTV)

The Dream of Having Your Own Business

Mike and Nancy Jacobs started Apple Spice just before the pandemic. Mike had been laid off from his aerospace job and through a seminar his former company offered, came home with the idea of the couple starting a franchise.

 

“It was something that we had talked about in the past, starting a business,” said Nancy Jacobs, who was a nurse. “However, after the seminar, Mike thought that a franchise made for a reasonable way for us to do that since with a franchise the start-up work of creating the business had been done.

“Basically it is like starting a business but with training wheels.”

Through coaching, the couple narrowed it down to two possible franchises and after visiting both companies, opted for Apple Space, which is based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Food seemed like a natural fit for the couple, Jacobs said as the reason for the choice.

A peek inside one of the Apple Spice box lunches. (WKTV)

The couple selected its 68th Street location, in the same mall as The Dollar Tree and Blain Farm and Fleet, because of the space it provided for their business needs while being close to US 131.

Apple Spice offers primarily lunches, through box lunches and catering. Jacobs said they do offer breakfast and some late lunch/early dinner service. Delivery is available for five or more box lunches and catering. Those wishing to order four or less box lunches may pick up from the store front on 68th Street. She noted that it is the Apple Spice team that delivers the food, not an outside service. This is to assure that items are set up to the customer’s expectations, she said.

And things were going pretty well with the couple even adding their own sandwich, the Michigan Cherry Chicken, to the menu and coming up with a “bread flight” that features three of the catering company’s breads.

Then, the pandemic hit.

“We just watched as our catering business went from steady to zero,” Jacobs said. But the business had a second side, box lunches, which offered a solution to providing individual meals for groups.

“People wanted to help hospital workers or police and fire and they would call up to have box lunches sent to a certain floor staff or department,” Jacobs said. The heavy duty box, which Jacobs said teachers find all kinds of creative ways to use, includes a sandwich, pickle, cookie, and a choice of salads, chips or fresh fruit in the classic box. There are other options as well including salad box meals.

The box lunches helped the business through the pandemic, making up almost 95 percent of its business. The business is now seeing more of a 60/40 spited between its box lunches and catering. Of course, there have been supply demands, with the couple adding a storage container in the back parking lot which has allowed them to stock up on items when they do find them.

It takes two

“I like going to Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce events such as the B2 Outlet opening because it gives me the opportunity to network and meet new people,” Jacobs said. “The Chamber is a good resource for me.”

And while Jacobs maybe good at networking and marketing, she does have her weaknesses.

“I can’t work the computer,” she said looking hesitantly over at her work station. “I just learned one system and they changed it on me. I have to rely on Mike, my general manager and staff to help me.”

That is where having a partner has been key to the business’s success, Jacobs said, adding that Mike handles a lot of the operational needs while she focuses on promotions and networking.

“Sometimes I get a call from a customer and I just know it would be better if a man handled it,” she said. “That is when I can ask Mike if he can take it and sometimes, he gets a call and knows it would be better if a woman took the call, so he gives it to me.”

As for challenges of being a women in the catering world, Jacobs admits she has not had many. Husband Mike said he feels it is because the business they are in, food and catering, is fairly diverse.

“I think there would be more challenges if Nancy was say in something like manufacturing which is more male dominated,” he said.

 

Apple Spice is the couple’s retirement job as they look toward the future. Jacobs said they hope to get a recreational vehicle someday and travel. They currently do some travel as certified Kansas City Barbecue Society judges.

As for now, Nancy Jacob said the couple’s goal is to continue to build Apple Spice and on that note, as the promotions person, she didn’t hesitate to add to encourage people to connect and check out Apple Spice’s offerings.

Apple Spice is located at 701 68th St. SW. The phone number is 616-805-3288 or visit the website at www.applesauce.com.

Financial Perspective: The stock index & how history may make your a smart investor

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Finances, Local Business

By Dave Stanley
Integrity Financial Service, LLC

It is this consistency that will ultimately allow you to create more wealth both in and out of the stock market. (pxhere.com)

“The best way to measure your investing success is not by gains and losses but by whether you’ve improving your overall financial plan that is likely to get you where you want to go.” — Dave Stanley

On the most fundamental level, there are two different approaches to investing in the stock market: active and passive.

An active investor, relying on his or her personal skill, attempts to beat the market by investing in companies believed to have the most reliable long-term growth prospects. Such an investor may try and beat the market by jumping in and out at precisely the right times to maximize gains and avoid losses.

Passive investors, on the other hand, are looking to match market returns by spreading money around between different types of investments. How their money is allocated will affect their returns, but passive investors are interested in simply taking market returns and not trying to get an edge on everyone else in the market.

There is an obvious difference between the two strategies and, for most individuals, beating the market as an active investor is nearly impossible. Typical active investors, in fact, regularly underperform the market by 4-5%. Even professional investors have difficulty beating the market consistently. Most people wind up losing to the market.

That’s why, when discussing what course of action is best for an individual, financial guru Ben Graham stated that an individual “should act consistently as an investor and not as a speculator.”

Index Investing and the Single Investor


A stock index is a measurement of a segment of the stock market. These indexes are compiled from the prices of selected stocks, usually using a weighted average. Contrary to what you may think, an index (such as the S&P 500) is not the “pulse” of a market, but rather a tool used by investors and financial advisors to compare the returns on specific investments and to describe the moods of investors.

Indexes use a base value that represents the weighted average stock price of all the stocks comprising that particular index. The actual index number has much less importance than its percent change over time. It is this up or down movement that can give you an idea of how that particular index is performing.

Each index is calculated on an ongoing basis every day the market is open, and each reflects market conditions and the state of the economy differently. It is important to note, however, that the most referred-to stock indexes, like the NASDAQ and S&P 500 reflect only a portion of the actual market and not the whole market. So, while indexes give you a useful snapshot of market movements and the attitudes of investors and provide you with a better historical perspective, they are not as useful as forecasting tools. Indexes tend to be most helpful as a research tool when viewed over a long historical period to determine trends and changes in investing patterns. Using an index will provide an investor with a yardstick for comparison.

Far from being the refuge of the timid and inexperienced willing to earn less on their investments, index investing has proven itself to be an incredibly effective strategy that often outperforms similar active investing strategies. 80-90% of the time, taking market returns produced by index investing produces better results than similar active strategy.

Index investing allows even those who are not “bull market geniuses” or who do not possess degrees in finance to make smarter decisions when it comes to growing wealth. It is perhaps the very best way to participate in market gains without having to incur excessive exposure to risk and the many expenses of more active growth strategies. Index investing lets you simplify and streamline the investment process and become more consistent.

It is this consistency that will ultimately allow you to create more wealth both in and out of the stock market.

Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or  Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463  or click this link:  Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com  Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management

A piece of track at downtown GVSU connects to Wyoming’s past

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Local History, Our Cities, Recreation, West Michigan, , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Realtor Sam Wilson added a large roof and benches to his Wyoming Park office for the comfort of local residents (and potential buyers) waiting for the next interurban car. (Wyoming Historical Commission)

Recently, Grand Valley State University commemorated remnants of the interurban railway tracks on its downtown campus, rails that once connected to a station in the City of Wyoming that served as a key connector for those wishing to travel to the lakeshore or Kalamazoo.

Started in 1901, the electric transportation system, called the Grand Rapids, Holland, and Chicago Railway, started with a line to Holland and in the following year, 1902, added a Muskegon line. Delayed by politics, the line to Kalamazoo was completed in 1915 by the Michigan Railway Company. Passengers of the interurban could make the decision of if they were heading west or south at a station near Lee Street and Grandville Avenue (now Chicago Drive), located in the City of Wyoming.

“It was located by the old Kelvinator building,” said David Britten, who is with the Wyoming Historical Commission. This made sense since the home appliance manufacturer would open its doors in 1914 with the interurban providing an easy way for residents to get to the plant for work.

There were several stops in the City of Wyoming. If you took the route toward Holland, the interurban would stop at Beverly Hills, Wyoming Park, and Elmbrook neighborhoods. Businessmen took advantage of those route stops to promote bungalow-style homes, spurring growth within the City of Wyoming. Take the interurban to Kalamazoo, which ran along side Divisions Avenue, and it would stop on 50th Avenue in the Kelloggsville neighborhood and  54th Street before heading on to Cutlerville as the train made its way to Kalamazoo. Today Consumer’s Energy power lines follow the old Kalamazoo route.

An ad for the Elmbrook community located between Porter and 28th Street west Byron Center Avenue. (The Street Railways of Grand Rapids by Carl Bajema and Tom maas)

Britten said you can see the interurban route through a Google map overview, but that little remains of the actual tracks.

“In many places, they just paved right over the tracks,” he said, adding the tracks would have run behind the current Godfrey-Lee athletic fields. Some years ago, owners of the property dug up the remaining tracks and pieces, which Britten said he did salvage a few items.

But the tracks contained within a brick inlay on the Mount Vernon pedestrian pathway on GVSU’s Pew Grand Rapids Campus, are more than likely the last stretch of any interurban tracks in West Michigan, according to a GVSU historian.

The exhibit placed above the tracks uses images and text to explain the interurban system and its impact on the region. The piece also gives related historical context for the time, such as how the Grand River was a “working waterfront.” According to Britten, the interurban would travel across the now cement bridge that is a pedestrian crossing for residents to and from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. From there it would make its way south along Grandville Avenue, passing through the car holding area that is now where Grand Valley State University’s downtown campus is located.

At the heart of the commemorative project is a core narrative that is important to the community, said Nathan Kemler, GVSU director of Galleries and Collections, who helped lead the effort to create and install the piece.

The remaining interurban track is contained within a brick inlay on the Mount Vernon pedestrian pathway on the Grand Valley State University’s Pew Grand Rapids Campus. (GVSU)

“One reason this project is so impactful is that it was an early sustainable transportation method that was rooted in equity,” said Kemler of the themes captured in the exhibit that is part of the GVSU Art Gallery. “Anybody could ride the Interurban, and it would take you into the city or outside of it to Lake Michigan, Lake Macatawa, or farms.”

Kemler noted that someone could take the Interurban from Grand Rapids to Lake Michigan, then board a steam ship for Chicago, and it was all done through electric power.

Learning about the prevalence of such green technology long ago is eye-opening for students, said Matthew Daley, GVSU professor of history, who was the key researcher on the project.

“Students are stunned that there was this huge integrated network of electric freight and passenger service that then tied into a citywide network of street cars,” Daley said. “You could take an interurban that produced no soot, no dirt, and at some point on West Michigan lines reach over 70 mph.”

In fact, reporters who road the Kalamazoo route noted that the train could cover 47 miles between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo in 44 minutes, according to the book “The Street Railways of Grand Rapids,” by Carl Bajema and Tom Mass.

“It ran really well until Americans discovered in the 1920s that they liked cars,” Daley said.

A GVSU employee puts the finishing touches on the outdoor exhibit about the interurban which is now located at Grand Valley State University’s downtown Pew Campus. (GVSU)

The paving of roads would help to establish the American car industry. By 1926, the Grand Rapids, Holland and Chicago Railway was sold at auction. Britten noted that in 1927, the United Suburban Railway was organized to restore car service from Jenison to Grand Rapids.

 

“It was called the shortest track with the most stockholders,” Britten said with a laugh. The seven miles of track had 700 stockholders. The United Suburban Railway would last until about 1932.

Daley and Kemler both said the story of the interurban gives important insight into fleeting economic conditions, how people come together, the environmental impact on the Grand River and how the community has evolved.

“This is about the changing landscape of Grand Rapids itself and understanding this location before the Grand Valley campus was here and before downtown was revitalized,” Kemler said.

There are no markers in Wyoming of the former interurban, which Britten said it would be nice if a marker was placed. There is only a small portion of the interurban that is part of the walking/bike trail Oxford Trail, which is in Grand Rapids. The Oxford Trail does cross over the old swing bridge the interurban once used, according to Britten.

March is Reading Month: The Word for World is Forest

3-bottom, Books, Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Recreation, , , ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!

Today’s suggested book comes from the Wyoming Tree Commission, which develops and promotes programs that maintain and improve Wyoming’s tree assets on both public and private properties. The group also fosters a healthy, species-diverse tree canopy that meets or exceeds coverage percentages suggested by the Michigan DNR, U.S. Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters.

Book: The Word for World is Forest
Author: Ursula LeGuin
Genre: Science Fiction

It is suitable for teens and adults. The parallels author Ursula LeGuin draws to contemporary life on earth and where humanity could be heading are palpable, instructive — and inspiring one to act for change (and plant more trees.)

GVSU economics expert: Steady growth despite supply chain issues

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Finances, Local Business, , ,

By Michele Coffill
Grand Valley State University

Brian Long is a local business forecaster. Credit: GVSU

Modest, steady economic growth continues in West Michigan, yet supply and personnel shortages are hindering normal business operations, according to Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University.

Long’s report for January showed positive numbers for employment, new orders and production, although Long called pending interest rate hikes and a looming situation in the Ukraine “the elephants in the room.”

“If a serious war breaks out and Russia invades Ukraine, all bets are off,” Long said.  “Domestically, the greatest economic threat remains inflation. The next two or three reports may rise to a rate of 8 percent or so, and then begin a gradual decline for the rest of the year.”

Other highlights from Long’s report:
    •    Sales/new orders rose slightly in January to +18, signifying that new orders of raw materials or services will be made soon 
    •    The index of employment was down in January to +13, from +17 in December; the most significant personnel shortages are in hospitality and service industries 
    •    Production index was down slightly in January to +15, from +16 in December

 

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.”

For an audio of Long’s complete report, click here.

A preview of tomorrow’s WKTV Voices’ Storytelling Project

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Restaurants
Listen to “WKTV Voices: A Night of Storytelling at The Stray Cafe (Episode 2)” on Spreaker.

Tomorrow at Wyoming’s The Stray Cafe, 13 local residents will be sharing short stories as part of the WKTV Voices’ Storytelling Project. Writer John D. Gonzalez sits down with organizer and WKTV volunteer Donna Kidner Smith to learn more about the story behind the event.

Each storyteller will share a five to eight minute tale from their personal stories. The stories range from tearjerkers to humorous. The event starts at 7 p.m. at The Stray Cafe, 4253 S. Division Ave. The program is free. The Stray does offer a variety of food items and beverages.

Photo of the Week: It’s a Smorgasbord

Citizen Journalism, ,
Sveden House Smorgasbord, located on 28th Street in Wyoming. (Wyoming Historical Commission)

Known for its chicken, Swedish meatballs, fried shrimp, bread pudding and glorified rice with marshmallows and cherries, the Sveden House Smorgasbord was staple in the City of Wyoming. Located at 1461 28th Street, it was the first to offer an all-you-can-eat buffet. The restaurant closed in the early 1990s and the building has since been torn down. It was national chain with restaurants all over the country and depending where you were at, it was sometimes spelled “Sweden.” The photo is from the Wyoming History Room collection.

Rotary Club of Grand Rapids names Dave and Karen Custer for annual community service award

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Dave and Karen Custer (supplied)

Anyone who meets Dave Custer will probably eventually hear the story of faced with his father’s story closing, he was able to support the tuition at the then Grand Rapids Junior College.

“Grand Rapids Junior College had lower tuition and allowed me to stay at home and helped me get a start on a college degree,” he said in article from the Grand Rapids Community College. “And having that degree allowed for better opportunities of employment, which molded by career.”

Because of the difference that GRCC had made in the CEO and founder of Custer Inc., Custer and his wife, Karen, have dedicated their time and abilities to ensure current GRCC students get the same opportunities that he had.

This month, the couple is being recognized for their service to the the Greater Grand Rapids community as this year’s Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award presented by the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids.

 

“We are pleased and excited to honor the Custers as the 2022 Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award winners for their contributions to our community,” said Meijer, Inc. Executive Chairman Hank Meijer, who is the son of Fred Meijer. “Dave and Karen’s generous and gracious spirts embodies the true meaning of this award.”

The Custers have been involved in a number of organizations such as the WMU Foundation, Chairman of GRCC Foundation, Hope on the Hill Foundation, Clark Retirement Community Capital Campaign Chair and Board Trustee. Dave Custer is a member and past president of the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids, member and past chairman of the Grand Rapids Economic Club, member and past president of Cascade Hills Country Club and director at Irwin Seating.

“We are honored to receive an award that bears the name of Fred Meijer and believe that you should do all you can for others when you can and while you can,” Dave Custer said. “We are humbled by this recognition which is truly an honor to us.”

The Custers join City of Wyoming’s Marge Wilson, owner of Marge’s Donut Den, along with several others who have received the Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award.

 

The Rotary Club of Grand Rapids will honor the Custers at the Frederik Meijer Service Above Self Award Celebration May 10 at 6 p.m. at The Cultural Center, 2250 E. Paris Ave. SE. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Charities Foundation. Tickets are on sale at grrotary.org or by calling 616-429-5640.

Local resident helps students become money smart with their own finances

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Non-Profits, Our Cities, , ,

By Nathan Slauer
WKTV Community Writer

No one taught Dondrea Brown about money as a kid, and the last thing anyone around his kitchen table wanted to mention was the rising pile of bills. Growing up in a single-parent household, he admired how his mother juggled multiple jobs and raised his five siblings.

As Brown learned about money management later in life, he kept hearing people say, “I wish kids knew about this stuff, too.” While studying education at Kent State University in Ohio, he drew upon his experience of overcoming economic hardship to develop a financial literacy curriculum geared toward an audience between ten- to seventeen-years-old. 

Dondrea Brown talks to a group of students in his Young Money Finances program. (Supplied)

This curriculum now forms the basis of Young Money Finances, a nonprofit providing financial education to more than 2,000 participants across West Michigan. The fast-growing organization has garnered media attention and significant sponsorship dollars for its innovative approach to removing obstacles to financial security for young people.  Because of his work in teaching financial literacy, Brown, along with Henry Sapp from of Better Wiser Stronger and Cole Williams of the Delta Project, was recently invited to help launch the new collaborative initiative We Matter Now, which is designed to help guide and provide role models for young black and brown men.

“I want this to be the last generation to start from scratch,” Brown said. “My goal is to teach the next generation how to have increased control and awareness of their financial journey, not this perpetuated cycle of ‘oh, we didn’t know.'”

For many young people, the balancing act of caring for family members, finding a job, and keeping up with schools feels overwhelming. Those who lack a support network rely on misleading information from social media, seek instant gratification, and wind up in debt.

At Young Money Finances, participants learn how to address this balancing act by completing one or all three program paths: money management, investment, and entrepreneurship. After completing at least one of the paths, they can meet with a money mentor to discuss real-world spending and saving decisions and practice using the budgeting planner and flashcards in their money manager kits.
 

Even when sessions dive deep into complicated topics like the stock market, the team at Young Money Finances never forget to have a good time. Sessions use “fun police,” who remind instructors to use games and culturally relevant examples such as online sneaker sales when explaining complex concepts.
 

For some participants, the lessons delivered during these sessions have been life-changing. Quavon Hallman, a music enthusiast who spends his free time DJing and running sound for New City Kids and his local church, learned how to use a budget app and track travel expenses.
 

For some participants, the lessons delivered during these sessions have been life-changing. Quavon Hallman, a music enthusiast who spends his free time DJing and running sound for New City Kids and his local church, learned how to use a budget app and track travel expenses. 
 

“I was broke, but I saved up $10,000 and bought my first car,” Hallman said. “I learned the difference between getting rich quickly and building wealth.” 

Another program graduate, Thailin Johnson, found a simulation focused on building on a starting point of $500 in the bank and cutting frivolous spending habits to be helpful. The exercise taught Johnson the importance of making incremental progress toward achieving his life’s ambitions, including attending college to study sociology or international relations, leading community service projects, and traveling to foreign countries like Ghana and Israel. 
 

“Pay attention and take ownership of your money,” Johnson said. “The training taught me how to break the cycle of the poverty mindset. Young people’s money matters.” 
 

After class, Dondrea Brown sits down with a student to review the matierals. (Supplied)

Reginald Haynes, an athlete who enjoys basketball, football, and wrestling, developed an interest in videography during his time in the program. He records special events for Young Money Finances, with a highlight being a basketball game hosted in partnership with the NAACP.
 

            “I want to help pay off my mom’s house and just provide relief,” Haynes said. 

Hallman, Johnson, and Haynes represent the fulfillment of one of Young Money Finances’ goals to help program graduates find employment. Each of these individuals will receive internship credit for assisting with workshop presentations, curriculum development, and social media. 
 

The rapid expansion of Young Money Finances excites Brown, who hopes to purchase a bus for field trips and a building with simulated stock market walls and bank teller stations. 

The organization applied for and received grants from Heart of West Michigan United Way, the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Huntington Bank, and Edward Jones. It also established partnerships with local universities, nonprofit organizations, and the Grand Rapids Public School system.
 

To learn more about Young Money Finances, visit the organization’s website or Facebook page.

Gonzo’s Top 5: Boats, brews, and a polar plunge

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Gonzo's Top 5, Local Entertainment, Recreation, , , ,

By John Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

The month of February is fading fast.

And the recent warm weather certainly has us thinking about spring and summer. That makes it a perfect time to experience the Grand Rapids Boat Show, which is in this weekend’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.

Here we go.

Gonzo’s Top 5

5. KDaLe at Railtown Brewery

If you’re looking for an intense coffee stout, check out Railtown Brewery’s new homebrew collaboration with the  Kent District Library ‘s brewing competition called KDaLe. I stopped by recently to meet up with some friends, and loved the robust and roasty flavors of this coffee beer. Local homebrewer Jason Kniss won with this stout recipe, which was made by the brewers at Railtown. The beer is named after a book called “Repeat” by Neal Pollack. According to reps, “the storyline of the book mimics his experience brewing this stout… It’s smooth and delicious!” As for food, I would recommend any of the mac and cheese dishes, loaded tots and fries, and the Korean Rice Bowl, a Korean-style bibimbap bowl with white rice, shredded carrots, cucumber, pickled onion, kimchi, edamame, and sunny-side up egg.  Along with an extensive luch and dinner menu, the brewery features 20 taps of beer, cider, seltzer and wine. Railtown is located at 3595 68th St SE Dutton, MI 49316. Follow them on Facebook.com/railtownbrewing or check them out at http://www.railtownbrewing.com/.

4. Grand Rapids Polar Plunge

Want to help a great cause? You can support Special Olympics at 2 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 19) at this year’s Grand Rapids Polar Plunge at LMCU Ballpark in Comstock Park. You can register or donate at www.PLUNGEMI.org.

3. World of Winter

The downtown celebration of winter may be a little washed out with the recent rain, but you can still enjoy several weekend activities this weekend. Today (Feb. 18) is the last day to see “Control No Control, an interactive installation at Ah-Nab-Awen Park. This big LED cube reacts to everything that touches it and every movement performed on its surface. Streamlined patterns and generative sound emerge as interaction occurs. Pop-up Entertainers perform from 6-8 p.m. Friday throughout downtown. Also, several local food trucks will be on hand at 555 Monroe Ave. NW (5-8 p.m. Friday, 2-8 p.m. Saturday, and noon-6 p.m. Sunday). Looking for a party? “Modelo Meltdown” is a fundraiser for public art campaigns in 2022. It takes place from noon-5 p.m. Saturday and will have live entertainment, an artist market, games and food & drink to celebrate arts in Grand Rapids. It is located at Grand Rapids Chicks Way behind Garage Bar. Get your FREE tickets here. More details on all events at  https://worldofwintergr.com/events. World of Winter continues through March 6.

2. Winter Jam 2022

Presented by NewSong Ministries with Premier Productions, Winter Jam is Christian Music’s biggest multi-artist tour. It stops at 7 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 19) at Van Andel Arena and features Skillet and Tauren Wells, as well as KB, Colton Dixon, I Am They and NewSong. Sponsored by Compassion International, admission is a $10 donation at the door. More details at www.jamtour.com or www.vanandelarena.com

1. Grand Rapids Boat Show

Summer is right around the corner, and nothing will get you in the mood more than the Grand Rapids Boat Show where you will find power boats, pontoons, fishing boats and other watercraft. The weekend also includes kayak demos, boating safety and Twiggy the Waterskiing Squirrel more. Hours are noon a.m.-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday at DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave NW. Tickets are $12 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-14 and free to ages younger than 5. Twiggy performs at 2, 5 and 7:30 p.m. Friday; 11:30 a.m., and 2:30, 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; and noon and 3 p.m. Sunday. More info at https://showspan.com/GRB/.

That’s it for now.

As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Have a great, safe weekend.



John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Local voices will add to the story as Opera Grand Rapids premieres new work focused on racial justice

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Faces, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By Sheila McGrath
WKTV Contributing Writer

As Opera Grand Rapids gets ready to stage the world premiere of Stinney: An American Execution, a companion piece will bring together local artists to talk about Stinney’s story through a variety of additional art forms.

The new opera tells the true story of the execution of George Stinney Jr., a Black teen who died in the electric chair at age 14 after he was wrongfully accused of raping and murdering two White girls. His conviction was overturned in 2014, 70 years after his 1944 execution.

The Stinney Artistic Collaborative, being performed the night before the opera opens, will showcase Ebony Road Players, Dr. Eric Williams from the Smithsonian Museum of African American History, The Diatribe, student artists from WMCAT, and other independent artists, in addition to performances by Opera Grand Rapids. 

“It’s essentially an open invitation for those artists to create after being inspired by George Stinney’s story,” said Emilee Syrewicze, executive director of Opera Grand Rapids.

In 1944 George Stinney Jr. became the youngest American executed. His conviction was over turned in 2014, 70 years after his execution. (Public domain)

“It’s a significant artistic achievement to get a world premiere opera, and particularly one that is so highly regarded,” she said. “That it speaks to a social issue like racial justice is something we wanted to elevate.”

She said after securing the rights to the opera in June, they knew they wanted to do more with it than just perform the opera. They reached out to organizations represented by artists of color and found several that were interested in taking part in a collaborative event.

Edye Evans Hyde, executive director of Ebony Road Players, will be performing songs relevant to the theme of the opera at the Stinney Collaborative.

She said in the current climate around the United States, with books about racial injustice being banned in schools, the arts community is the only place left to telI stories like Stinney: An American Execution.

“The arts still have the ability to further the conversation about equality and inclusion and racism and all these things that we still need to talk about,” Evans Hyde said. “I’m just really proud of the Opera and other Institutions taking on the subject matter so that we can continue to talk about these things, not just in February but the whole year long.”

G. Foster,  a teaching artist and co-founder of The Diatribe, will be performing a poetic work at the Stinney Collaborative.

G. Foster,  a teaching artist and co-founder of The Diatribe, will be performing a poetic work at The Stinney Collaborative. (Supplied)

He’s frustrated by the lack of progress toward racial justice not only around the United States, but in the Grand Rapids community.

“We still have so many problems that need to be addressed,” he said. “In 2021, Mayor Bliss announced that racism is a public health crisis in Grand Rapids. I haven’t heard anybody talking about it. We haven’t been putting in the work to make sure it’s preventable. We have ‘diversity, equity and inclusion.’ These are amazing words, but when you go to the table, there’s no diversity at these tables. It’s usually done by people who don’t look like me.”

He’s participating in The Stinney Artistic Collaborative in hopes that the event will help put words into action.

“We have to know our history, but we have to be able to change our present and our future,” he said.

The Stinney Artistic Collaborative takes place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 24, at the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, 17 Pearl St. NW.

Stinney: An American Execution will be staged Feb. 25 through 27 at the Peter Martin Wege Theater, 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW. Tickets for Stinney and the Stinney Artistic Collaborative are available online at www.operagr.org or by calling the box office at 616-451-2741.

Traverse City offers mobile passport for spring activity fun

Citizen Journalism

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

One of the stops on the mobile passport is the Traverse City postcard. (Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

Traverse City will be offering a mobile passport this spring break that will feature incentives for families to get outside and be active during the break from school.

Available through the Traverse City website, the mobile passport allows users to check into places like Mission Point Lighthouse, the TART trails, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Dune Club along with a variety of other locations. Once five activities are checked off on the mobile passport, the participant is eligible for a free slice of pie gift card at Grand Traverse Pie Company. Gift cards can be picked up at the Traverse City Visitor Center. the fee passport also offers discounts and incentives at a yoga class, Great Lakes Children’s Museum, and Michigan Legacy Art Park.

“Spring is a great time to shake off the winter hibernation and get moving,” said Traverse City Tourism President Trevor Tkach. “Traverse City attracts hundreds of thousands of people to our hiking and biking trails, our lighthouses and other activities. We’re using this to promote healthy and active lifestyle activities.”

Tkach notes spring tourism to the region has grown dramatically in recent years. “The wineries are open, the amazing scenic road trips are a little less crowded, and the pace is a little less hectic. It becomes a perfect time to take in the Traverse City region,” said Tkach.

 

The Spring into Activity passport will be activated mid-February, but sign up is available by clicking here.

For more information about Traverse City, visit www.traversecity.com

Financial Perspectives: Should a deferred income annuity have a place in your retirement plan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Finances, Local Business, , ,

By Dave Stanley
Integrity Financial Service, LLC

DIAs offer several distinct advantages over kinds of safe money products. (pxhere.com)

“Does a deferred income annuity have a place in your retirement plan? It might fit in your portfolio like a glove.” — Dave Stanley

If you’re looking for payments that begin on a future date and continue for the rest of your life, your spouse’s life, or for a specific period, you might consider a deferred income annuity (DIA).

DIAs offer several distinct advantages over other kinds of safe money products. You won’t need to keep your eyes on the stock market, track interest rates, or calculate dividends. If you desire lifetime guaranteed income that you can’t outlive, a deferred income annuity will accomplish that. Having a DIA can give you more peace of mind knowing you will have a predictable income stream available when you no longer work.

For some, DIAs are an excellent selection for their retirement portfolios because they help defer taxes until later when you could be taxed at a lower rate. Other types of annuities are front-loaded, meaning you pay taxes upfront, perhaps at a higher rate.

DIAs are guaranteed by the issuing insurance company’s assets and are not subject to the ups and downs of the stock market. Also, since deferred income annuities don’t have account management and additional fees, ALL of your premium payments go to your monthly income.

When you choose a DIA, you decide how frequently to receive payments. Typically, deferred income annuity buyers can set payments for every month, yearly or quarterly.

Although DIAs are a less complicated safe money product, they are still highly customizable. Improvements in the DIA product mean that you have options to make your DIA do more for your retirement.

One question about annuities is what happens to your funds when the annuitant dies? Does the insurance company stop making payments? Do loved ones lose all the money put into the annuity? Customization allows payments to continue to designated beneficiaries, so it will enable guaranteed income to continue. There are many other ways to customize your annuity, including extending coverage for a guaranteed period, adding a second person to the annuity, and others. An annuity specialist can help customize one just for you and your circumstances.

Tax issues:

How your annuity proceeds are taxed depends on how you fund it. For example, you can purchase a deferred income annuity with proceeds from selling stocks or bonds, a business, or a home. You might also use cash from a maturing CD or money you’ve saved in a deferred annuity account. When you fund a DIA with lump-sum distributions from a defined benefit or defined contribution plans, SEPs, IRAs, 1035 exchanges, or Section 403b plan, the annuity is now a “Qualified Deferred Income Annuity.” You could also use a lump sum from a tax-qualified account, such as a 401k or traditional IRA. Remember to talk with your tax expert since your plan has been growing tax-deferred, and your payments will be taxable income.

Non-qualified deferred income annuities have not been tax-sheltered. They are funded with monies on which you have already paid taxes. Examples of non-qualified annuity money can come from selling a house, mutual fund, business, or other investment. They might also make sense if you receive large inheritance or proceeds from an insurance settlement.

When you start receiving annuity payouts from a non-qualified annuity, a portion of each payment is considered a return of principal and excluded from taxation. The amount excluded is calculated according to an “exclusion ratio.” You can usually find the details of the exclusion ratio on any quotes you get. Be sure to have your annuity professional explain this to you carefully before deciding on any product or company.

The bottom line: Deferred income annuities are an option for people looking to create a pension-like source of reliable income. Like a variable annuity, you won’t access your money for a specific number of years, allowing it to grow. Like an immediate annuity, DIAs have fixed payouts for life. Customization options will enable you to solve other issues, including ensuring income for a spouse or beneficiary.

If you are looking into deferred income annuities, speak with your qualified local expert experienced with the many types of annuities available. They will evaluate your needs and goals to determine if a DIA will solve the most critical issues.

Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or  Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463  or click this link:  Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com  Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.

Photo of the Week: Mary Lee Candy Shop

Citizen Journalism, , ,
Mary Lee Candy Shop (Grand Rapids Public Museum)

MaryLee Candies, believed to have been founded in Detroit but in the newspapers it is mentioned that it was based in Ohio, was a popular Michigan candy company. This storefront was on Monroe Avenue although it does not indicate if it was the one at 40 Monroe Ave. or 137 Pearl St. NW. Both locates were in downtown Grand Rapids, according to researching through the Grand Rapids Press archives on the kdl.org site. According to a Nov. 11, 1950 Grand Rapids Press article, the store marked its 30th anniversary. The picture, from the Grand Rapids Public Museum Collection, was taken in 1923. The sign hanging in front of the entrance reads “Old Time – Home Made MaryLee Candies.” To the left is the James P. Powers Signs L.M. Kingsley Show Cards.

WKTV Journal community contributor’s photos of Valentine’s Day in Puerto Vallarta

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Holidays, Travel, WKTV Projects,
  • Valentine’s Day flowers as photographed by WKTV Journal contributor Patty Williams.
  • Valentine’s Day flowers as photographed by WKTV Journal contributor Patty Williams.
  • Valentine’s Day flowers as photographed by WKTV Journal contributor Patty Williams.
  • Valentine’s Day flowers as photographed by WKTV Journal contributor Patty Williams.
  • Valentine’s Day flowers as photographed by WKTV Journal contributor Patty Williams.
  • Valentine’s Day flowers as photographed by WKTV Journal contributor Patty Williams.
  • Valentine’s Day flowers as photographed by WKTV Journal contributor Patty Williams.

By WKTV Staff

WKTV Journal contributor Patty Williams sent us pictures of Valentine’s Day in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where she noted one family of flower farmers prepares arrangements for sale in the streets.

Gonzo’s Top 5: Ice sculptures, country music, Disney, and Hamilton

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Gonzo's Top 5, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

It’s Super Bowl weekend, and the entire state of Michigan is rooting for the LA Rams and Matthew Stafford. Are there any Bengals fans out there?

Well, the big game is not until 6:30 p.m. Sunday, which means you have plenty of time to get out of the house and enjoy the snow. We have a few ideas in this weekend’s Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.

Here we go.

Gonzo’s Top 5

John Gonzalez sits down with singer Scotty McCreery (John Gonzalez)

5. Scotty McCreery at The Intersection

I can’t believe it’s been more than 10 years since teen star Scotty McCreery won Season 10 of “American Idol.” It’s been watching him grow as an artist, and as a person. He’s released several hits, got married and even endured loss. Through it all we have we’ve stayed in touch. In fact, I got to spend some time on his tour bus last summer when he performed at an outdoor concert in Grand Rapids. Over the years he has carved out a solid career after his meteoric rise to fame, topping the country charts with hits such as “This is It,” “Five More Minutes,” “You Time” and his most recent video, “Damn Strait.” It’s a classic country song that pays homage to the legendary George Strait. If you’re a fan, you already know he’s in town tonight (Feb. 11) at The Intersection in Grand Rapids as part of his “Same Truck Tour.” Tickets are $39.50 at the door. I guarantee it’s going to be a great show. More info at www.sectionlive.com.

Disney On Ice returns this weekend. (Supplied)

4. Disney On Ice presents Mickey and Friends

Why not celebrate the Disney character we know and love by taking the kids to see “Mickey and Friends” at Van Andel Arena? You’ll spend time with Moana and Maui, Woody and the whole “Toy Story” gang, Anna and Elsa of “Frozen” and so much more! Performances are at 7 tonight (Feb. 11); 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday. Ticket information at  www.vanandelarena.com.

More than 100 some ice sculptures will be heading to Grand Rapids this weekend. (Supplied)

3. World of Winter in Grand Rapids

It’s a busy weekend in downtown Grand Rapids as World of Winter has several events, including:

  • ICE-Breaker from noon-5 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 12) at Rosa Parks Circle to witness the live carving of the publicly voted 5,000-pound ice sculpture by the Ice Brigade‘s Randy Finch. Also, check out a gallery of ice sculptures all throughout Downtown Grand Rapids. You can also join one of the several guided ice sculpture walking tours led by Grand Rapids Running Tours. 
  • Movies on the Piazza: The Princess Bride, 1-3 p.m. Sunday at Studio Park. It’s a free showing, but ring your own chair and warm up by the fire pits.

     

Learn more about all of the events taking place now through March 6 at www.worldofwintergr.com.

Winter fun at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. (Supplied)

2. Winter Family Day at Meijer Gardens

If you can’t make it downtown, Meijer Gardens is offering several activities as part of a Winter Family Day from 1-4 p.m. Saturday (Feb. 12). The kids can watch a sculptor transform a block of ice into a piece of ice art; create a winter-inspired craft; and discover how birds play and eat. The special activities are included with your admission to the gardens. Get more info at www.meijergardens.org.

Listen to “Episode 1: Hamilton returns to Grand Rapids, Feb. 8-20” on Spreaker.

1.Hamilton at DeVos Performance Hall

What is there to say? I think everyone knows that “Hamilton,” created by Lin-Manuel Miranda about American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, is a groundbreaking Broadway show. It has been selling out since it first debuted in 2015, and tickets for the touring shows remain in high demand. A few tickets still remain for performances through Feb. 20 at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids. Check the latest ticket availability at https://broadwaygrandrapids.com/.

Also, listen to an interview with new Broadway Grand Rapids President and CEO Meghan Distel, who was a guest on my inaugural “Then By All Means, Lead the Way” theatre podcast. In the interview she said the show is “emotional,” “inspiring” and “the lyrics are so brilliant.” “I sobbed the first time I saw it,” Distel said in the podcast. “I was so moved. And you just want to see it again.” She also talks about the remainder of the Broadway Grand Rapids season and her new role. Please listen.

Well that’s it for this weekend’s Top 5.

Go Bengals!

As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Have a great, safe weekend.



John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Three West Michigan nonprofits partner on new initiative serving boys, young men of color

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Finances, Non-Profits, , , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The leaders of three West Michigan nonprofits have joined forced to create a new collaborative initiative that will serve boys and young men of color under a single mission: becoming something they don’t always get the chance to see.

Cole Williams, o the Delta Project

“We Matter Now reflects the importance of seeing positive Black male leadership that will enable boys and young men of color to create positive change in our community” said Cole Williams, of the Delta Project, who is joined by Dondreá Brown of Young Money Finances and Henry Sapp of Better Wiser Stronger. “Boys and young men of color don’t believe they have an opportunity to change their lives because they don’t see enough successful men of color as role models.

“By sharing our lived experienced, We Matter Now strives to provide examples of what boys and young men of color can become.”

With multiyear financial support from Heart of West Michigan United Way, Brown, Sapp, and Williams have joined forces to serve as resource brokers for We Matter Now. The initiative curates its programming from a strengths-based approach, working to empower “at-potential” boys and young men of color and to equip them with the necessary tools to close the gap on education, wellness and financial achievement.

This year, We Matter Now will offer a conference, summer programming, a celebration and ongoing initiatives for approximately 60 at-potential boys and young men of color in grades 9-11. The inaugural We Matter Now conference will be held Friday, April 22 at Grand Valley State University’s Eberhard Center in downtown Grand Rapids, gathering 60 Black and Brown youth for a day of education, recognition, celebration and connection.

Those interested in joining the first We Matter Now cohort and attending the conference, which is free of charge to participants, can sign up online.

 

Dondrea Brown, of Young Money Finances

“Recognizing the power of words, We Matter Now seeks to serve ‘at-potential’ boys and young men of color, flipping the narrative that too often begins with ‘at-risk’ youth,” Brown said. “Our initiative strives to create a safe space, working to provide Black and Brown high school students with the tools, skills, resources and relationships needed to face challenges within their community.

“Henry, Cole and I appreciate the support from United Way, which has encouraged us to develop programming that will resonate with youth we are already working with in our community. Together, we are creating a road map that will help young men in West Michigan build deeper, stronger relationships and grow into leaders.”

As one of its first steps toward mobilizing the community for change, Heart of West Michigan United Way developed the Transformation Strategy in 2021 to close the economic and achievement gap for people of color in Kent County. Through this strategy, the organization created the Opportunity Initiative to provide local Black, Indigenous and People of Color, or BIPOC-led/founded grassroots organizations –including Young Money Finances, Delta Project and Better Wiser Stronger – financial and educational support through a one-time grant. United Way’s goal was to help build the capacities of small nonprofits and collaboratives that were already successfully addressing systemic change.

“United Way is funding the We Matter Now initiative because we saw how intimately these three organizations work to empower young Black and Brown men who struggle to achieve due to structural racism and other forms of oppression,” said Shannon Blackmon-Gardner, vice president of community impact at Heart of West Michigan United Way. “We are so excited to support their work and see the change, growth and impact that this collaborative will have on our young men of color.”

The theme of the first conference, Our Vision, Our Voice, Our Choice, underscores the initiative’s desire to have boys and young men of color be partners in what programming will look like. Sessions will focus on financial education, healthy behaviors and conflict resolution training, equipping attendees with the support to be impactful members of the community.

Henry Sapp, of Better Wiser Strong

“We Matter Now will serve as a resource broker, collaborating with curated organizations to connect attendees to the high-impact services, information and support they need,” Sapp said. “Research shows it’s critical for young people to have adults who believe in and support them in order to develop a positive sense of their future.

“Youth who can see a future for themselves are more likely to exhibit positive behaviors, such as good decision-making and goal planning, while avoiding problem behaviors and poor choices.”

Through its three partner organizations, We Matter Now will offer summer programming to those who attend the conference as a way to extend the conversation and share resources. This programming will include:

  • Better Wiser Stronger will offer its Blueprint Journal workshop, which is part of its boys-to-men curriculum and designed to provide a blueprint for success.
  • The Delta Project will offer its Delta Conversation, which uses storytelling and video editing to tell personal stories in a meaningful and digestible way.
  • Young Money Finances will offer three sessions – Young Money Managers, Young Investors and Young Entrepreneurs – enabling teens to sharpen their skills around managing money, investing and starting a business.

We Matter Now will also hold a celebrationin August before the start of the new school year to celebrate the connections forged during spring and summer, connect families of attendees with one another and promote a successful return to the classroom.

Photo of the Week: Won’t you be my…

Citizen Journalism,
Valentine, My Valentine card (Grand Rapids Public Museum)

This vintage Valentine’s Day card comes from the Grand Rapids Public Museum Collections. The card reads “This elephant is big and strong and remembers very long. I hope you still remember me. I’m strong for you as I can be.”

Valentine’s Day celebrations can be traced back to ancient Roman. The first Valentine’s Day cards were believed to have been sent in 15th Century France although it is generally regarded that the sending of Valentine’s Day cards because popular, especially in America, during the Victorian age. It is believed that the development of the postal service helped popularized the cards. It is estimated that more than 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged in the United States — and this does not take into account the school Valentine’s Day card swapping — which makes Valentine’s Day the second-largest-card-sending holiday in the United States. The number one card-sending-holiday? Christmas, of course.

Photo of the Week: It’s candy time

Citizen Journalism
Kresge Store on Monroe Avenue (Grand Rapids Public Museum)

Can you guess what time it is? “It is candy time…” as the sign in this 1930s photo of the candy display at Kresge’s 5 and 10 store, which was located on the southwest corner of Market and Monroe in downtown Grand Rapids.

A predecessor to the discount stores, five and dimes were popular in the early 1900s as items often sold for a a dime or a nickel. Kresge was founded in Detroit in the late 1800s and would eventually become Kmart in the mid-1960s. The company merged with Sears in 2004 but unfortunately it was not a successful merger with the new corporation closing stores. The last Kmart store in Michigan closed in 2021.

Gonzo’s Top Five: More winter fun with bull riding, two expos, and a Civic Theatre production

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Gonzo's Top 5, Local Entertainment, , ,

By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

I was shopping at Meijer the other day and said, “Why is all this Valentine’s Day candy out?”

Hello, Gonzo!

Next week is February, and that means Valentine’s Day is right around the corner.

Consider this a heads up for those of you who need a reminder or nudge to come up with a plan. You know your significant other loves it when you plan in advance.

Speaking of planning, if you didn’t get a chance to plan something for this weekend, I’m here with a list of events taking place throughout West Michigan.

It’s all in my Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.

Here we go.

Gonzo’s Top 5

5. Huntin’ Time Expo

The largest collection of hunting exhibits in the state, the annual Huntin’ Time Expo, returns this weekend with 350-plus booths featuring a variety of products and services. Along with gear, you can also find a wide range of outfitters from all over the globe and educational seminars. Hours are 1-9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m-7 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday at the DeltaPlex in Walker. Tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for kids (ages 5-12). Kids admitted free on Sunday. Free parking all weekend, according to organizers. More info at www.deltaplex.com and https://www.huntingshows.net/.

4. 2022 Kids & Family Expo

Looking for something to do with the kiddos? Indoors? On Saturday (Jan. 29) head over to DeVos Place for a fun-filled family day at the Kids & Family Expo. The goal is to encourage families to play and move with physical activities such as interactive programs, exhibits, and entertainment. They even have a Zip Line that flies through DeVos Place. Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for children ages 3-15 and free for children ages 2 and under. More info at devosplace.org or kohlerexpo.com/kids-and-family-expo.

3. “Shakespeare in Love”

Based on the Academy Award-winning movie that starred Joseph Fiennes and Gwyneth Paltrow, “Shakespeare in Love” opens this weekend at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. It opens Friday and continues through Feb. 13. The play reimagines William Shakespeare’s creative process, especially as a young writer who struggled with deadlines and creditors. He finds that love leads the way. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. There is no performance on Feb. 11. Single tickets are $18-$40. For more information, visit grct.org.

READ MORE: Love is in the air as Grand Rapids Civic Theatre presents ‘Shakespeare in Love’

2. Professional Bull Riders

I’m not sure exactly how ranking, scoring or judging works in this sport, but I don’t care. It’s fun to watch, and you know the winners always stay on the bull longer than the others. Sorry if I oversimplified that! According to organizers, “All 40 bull riders will get on one bull each in Rounds 1-2. Following Round 2 Saturday evening, the riders’ individual two-round scores will be totaled with the Top 10 advancing to the championship round for one more out and a chance at the event title. This weekend the Professional Bull Riders Tour stops Friday and Saturday (Jan. 28-29) at Van Andel Arena. More info at vanandelarena.com

READ MORE: Professional bull riders tour comes to Van Andel Arena

Silent Disco at World of Winter (supplied)

1. World of Winter Silent Disco

 

One of the most fun experiences you will ever have is to sing and dance like no one’s watching! That’s the premise of Silent Disco. Put on a set of wireless headphones and enjoy live music from a variety of local DJs. You hear your music and watch others dance to their own beat. Check out Silent Disco at 7 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 29) at World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids. It is located at 555 Monroe Ave. NW. DJs include: AB & Floppy Drive (7-8 p.m.), Diesel & DJ Sommelier (8-9 p.m.), and Taheo B2B Yeesh & DJ Tony Banks (9-10 p.m.). Food trucks on-site: Patty Matters, Mapocho, Street Chef Shaw and BlueChip. Also this weekend: Pop Up Performers throughout downtown (6-8 p.m. Friday), Black History Walking Tour at Rosa Parks Circle (noon, Sunday), and Food Trucks (5-8 p.m. Friday, 2-8 p.m. Saturday, and noon-6 p.m. Sunday). More details on all events at  https://worldofwintergr.com/events. World of Winter continues through March 6.

That’s it for now.

As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Have a great, safe weekend.

John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Hollywood Makeout next to perform at Concerts Under the Stars

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Hollywood Makeout (supplied)

The Concerts Under the Stars series continues with local band Hollywood Makeout performing familiar, yet refreshing sounds of surf-garage-pop-rock at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) on Thursday, Feb. 10. Sit back and experience the wonders of the cosmos, featuring fully immersive audio and visual experiences in the Museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, highlighting local music and visual artists.

  

Formed in 2013, Hollywood Makeout is composed of four talented artists including Erin Lenau (lead vox, guitar) and Cedric Canero (bass, backup vox), Tim Broderick (drums, backup vox) and Tim Warren (guitar). All members have been musicians from young ages and their combined experience shows itself in their songwriting and performances.

Julie Seaward, a local freelance artist, will accompany Hollywood Makeout, providing captivating visuals on the planetarium dome to complement the performance. Julie’s focus is on illustrative 2D animation and motion graphics, graphic design and painting. Her work primarily explores cultural identity and hopefulness within the human condition.

The show will begin at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6 p.m., including access to the Museum’s first two floors of exhibits. Performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer and other beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are $20, with discounted pricing of $16 for GRPM members. Tickets are currently on sale and available at grpm.org.

 

The 2022 Concerts Under the Stars series will conclude in March, featuring a unique blend of alternative rock sets performed by Lazy Genius with two shows on March 10 and 11. 

Wyoming starts off 2022 with an expansion in manufacturing, new housing development opens

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Local Business, Our Cities, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The start of 2022 has the City of Wyoming seeing growth in both the manufacturing and residential fronts.

Padnos plans to expand into recycling of ocean-bound plastics. (pxhere.com)

Earlier this month, industrial recycling and scrap management company Padnos announced it would expand its operations in the City of Wyoming, creating up to 50 jobs. The company operates a plant at 500 44th St. SW, in Wyoming.

The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $6.6 million. It i supported by a $250,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant, according to a press release from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with focus on Michigan’s economy. Also supporting the project is The Right Place, which has offered staff time and resources for the project.

 

“Padnos is proud to further our investment in the community while increasing our process capabilities to meet market demands. We are seeing an increase in demand for recycled material and we are committed to working with our partners to get these materials back into new products and keeping them out of our landfills and oceans,” said Jonathan Padnos President and CEO Jonathan Padnos in a written release.

 

Padnos, founded in 1905 in the City of Holland, has been transforming scrap into reusable resources for more than 100 years. The company recycles metals, paper, plastics, and electronics and currently has more than 725 team members in facilities located in Michigan and Indiana.

 

The expansion at the Wyoming facility will focus on the company’s effort to increase its capabilities into recycling ocean-bound plastics. Padnos will add new loading docks, a laboratory, and a maintenance garage to the Wyoming facility. It will also invest in electrical and infrastructure upgrades.

 

The project will bring immediate jobs to residents in the area and cement the 100-year-old company’s presence in Michigan. Padnos is committed to work with underserved communities and provides training to individuals returning from incarceration, providing them with the skills needed to be successful in the workforce.

For information on careers with PADNOS, visit https://padnos.com/theres-a-great-future-in-sustainablity/. 

Meeting the housing deficit

Orion Construction plans to complete The Reserve Flats project by the fall of this year. (supplied)

Construction continues in the City of Wyoming with The Granger Group announcing it has welcomed its first tenets to the multifamily development, The Reserve Flats.

 

Located on Wilson Avenue, half-mile north of M-6, the 138-unit community is being built by Grand Rapids-based contractor Orion Constriction and features 26 condo-style apartments ranging from three- to eight-unit buildings. Spread over 22 acres, the project is being constructed in three phases, the first phase delivering 15 units with two- and three-bedroom floor plans.

“Granger is focused on building strong, vibrant communities and The Reserve is another example of the level of quality we expect to deliver in the communities we invest in together,” said Jason Granger, who oversees strategic investment initiatives for Granger, in a written release.

 

While referencing Kent County’s 2021 study that projects a nearly 9,000-unit deficit to be filled by 2025, Granger said, “We set out to build a development that provides quality housing options for the City of Wyoming while also serving a greater Grand Rapids area that desperately needs additional housing now more than ever.”

Units at The Flats range from 1,400 to 1,700 square feet. Each unit has a two-car attached garage along with a dedicated driveway and a covered porch at the main entrance.

 

Orion Construction broke ground on the projects first phase in August 2021. The company has seven buildings and 32 units enclosed as they continue to work through the winter elements. The project is scheduled to be completed by fall of this year. 

Wyoming Public Safety responds to two early morning fires

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

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

In the early morning hours of Jan. 25, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to two fires, one Canal Avenue and one on 28th Street.

At approximately 2:30 a.m., both the department’s police and fire responded to the report of a house fire in the 5300 block of Canal Ave SW.

As Wyoming officers and firefighters arrived on scene, they observed the house was fully engulfed in flames. They determined that the residents were able to escape the house fire and confirmed there were no other persons in the residence. Wyoming Firefighters along with crews from Grandville Fire, Byron Center Fire, and Georgetown Fire battled the house fire for several hours, however, the residence suffered significant structural damage. The total value of the damage is unknown currently.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, however there does not appear to be any safety concern for the public. A male resident was transported to a local hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation, according to the department’s report.

At approximately 6 a.m. on Jan. 25, members from both the department’s police and fire as well as teams from the Grand Rapids Fire Department and Grandville Fire Department responded to a the report of fire at the Taco Bell located at 1819 28th St. SW, Wyoming. Taco Bell employees reported seeing smoke and flames coming from the rear of the restaurant as they arrived for work.

 

When the crews arrived, they noticed the fire had spread and the building was fully engulfed in flames. Crews on scene confirmed there were no persons in the building. The crews were able to extinguish the fire, however the building sustained substantial damage. Fire crews are still on the scene investigating and there were no reported injuries because of the fire. The total value of the damage is unknown currently, according to a report from the department. 

‘Preparing for battle’ is all part of the fun at West Michigan’s Centerline Sword School

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Local History, Recreation,

By Nathen Slauer
WKTV Contributing Writer

Those who visit Allendale’s Evergreen Elementary school on Wednesday nights should come prepared for battle.

Seasoned warriors enter the gymnasium with weapons drawn each week, ready to engage in combat. As duels commence, the room fills with the sound of clashing steel blades.

Members of the Centerline Sword School have some fun posing. (WKTV)

This band of sword-wielding enthusiasts forms the Centerline Sword School. The school teaches Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), a growing movement to revive the study of historically accurate swordcraft in West Michigan and nationwide.

Mark Maddox, a Centerline Sword School student, recalls hearing about HEMA from his niece and brother and immediately getting hooked.

“HEMA is an opportunity to do martial arts as I did long ago in a different context,” Maddox said. “It’s a little bit of childhood excitement mixed with reliving the history of medieval and renaissance times.”

In Maddox’s view, HEMA appeals to athletes and history buffs alike. The hobby involves discovering fighting techniques developed by European swordsmen and putting them into practice using modern interpretation.

Unlike eastern martial arts or fencing, HEMA does not follow an oral tradition passing down standardized methods and rules. HEMA instructors must study manuals written by influential figures such as Joachim Meyer, a 16th-century German fencing master, and analyze the moves depicted in diagrams.

When students start practicing these moves, they often discover that the motions feel different than what they imagined after seeing choreographed fight scenes in fantasy movies.

Centerline Sword School instructor Shane Hillen reviews techniques with a student. (WKTV)

“The media gets a lot wrong,” Maddox said. “Real fights are not ‘Princess Bride’-style where you land several hits for twenty minutes. In reality, a fight could end with a single blow.”

Sessions consist of solo drills, lessons on a particular technique, and sparring. Beginners learn basic cuts, guards, and footwork before moving to dodges, counterattacks, and grappling.

Maddox’s favorite tenet of swordsmanship says that one should never be afraid of getting hit or hitting someone else. HEMA uses protective equipment to ensure participants’ safety. Still, students must brace themselves to take hits and walk away with the occasional bruise.

Yet Cameron Metcalf, a Centerline instructor, describes swordplay as an elegant art. Bouts often end when a combatant finds a strategic opening in their opponent’s position, removes their weapon, and throws them off balance.

Metcalf and Centerline students travel to tournaments across the Midwest to test their prowess. Contestants earn points by landing blows on the head, torso, and limbs during matches.

On average, sword battle only lasts about a few minutes, according to members of the Centerline Sword School. (WKTV)

“Fencing is a game of chess, not a brutish activity,” Metcalf said.

The thrill of competition motivates some Centerline participants to keep coming back to practice. For others, HEMA offers a fun way to meet friends and get in shape with a supportive community.

“Who doesn’t want to play with swords?” said Ehren Wynder, a Centerline instructor. “It’s a great way to blow off steam.”

Newcomers can start practicing HEMA by purchasing a synthetic sword for around $100. Inexpensive equipment allows the user to get the swing of things before investing in pricey gear like a steel longsword and a complete armor kit.

West Michigan residents interested in learning more about HEMA can find a full class schedule on Centerline Sword School’s website and Facebook page.

Readers download a record one million books from KDL in 2021

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

By Sheila McGrath
WKTV Contributing Writer

The ongoing COVID pandemic hasn’t stopped Kent County residents from reading library books, but it has influenced the way they get them.

Britt Bennett’s book was a popular digital download in 2021. (pubic domain)

The Kent District Library recently announced it reached a record-breaking one million digital book checkouts in 2021. KDL was one of 121 library systems worldwide to reach that milestone.

Randall Goble, director of engagement for KDL, said the increase was definitely related to the pandemic. While digital downloads had been increasing even before the days of COVID, they trended sharply upward when buildings closed in the spring of 2020, then remained high even
after libraries reopened.

“Digital is still really strong,” he said.

Digital access is the fastest growing segment of public library resources, KDL officials said.

Even before the pandemic, circulation of physical materials was not increasing at nearly the same rate as digital materials, according to Goble.

“There has been an increase in the circulation of digital materials because they’re so much more convenient to access,” Goble said. “We’re constantly striving to provide what people can access most easily and have the most value, and digital materials fit the bill.”

Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library was a popular audiobook downloaded by KDL patrons. (free domain)

Readers in the Rockford area top Kent County in terms of digital downloads, he said.

“They absolutely are higher-than-average users,” he said.

According to figures provided by KDL, the following titles were the top five ebooks borrowed from their digital collection in 2021:

The 1 million figure includes mainly e-book downloads, but some audiobooks are also included, Goble said.

1.  The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett 
2.  The Midnight Library by Matt Haig 
3.  The Four Winds by Kirstin Hannah 
4.  The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate 
5.  People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

In terms of audiobooks borrowed in 2021, these five topped the list:


1.  The Midnight Library by Matt Haig 
2.  Atomic Habits by James Clear 
3.  The Guest List by Lucy Foley 
4.  Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens 
5.  The Four Winds by Kirstin Hannah

KDL residents with a valid library card can access digital books from KDL’s OverDrive-powered digital collection by visiting kdl.overdrive.com. KDL library card holders can also obtain books by downloading the Libby Library reading app.

The KDL is in the top 60 public library systems worldwide in total digital circulation, library officials said.

Gonzo’s Top 5: Basketball, Star Wars, and RVs

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Gonzo's Top 5, Local Entertainment, Recreation, , ,

By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

Brrrrr. It’s cold.

Rather than fight it, let’s join it.

This is a perfect time to check out World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids. Plenty of activities are planned today through March 6.

But, if you want to escape winter, and you’re more focused on summer, it’s also a good weekend to go downtown Grand Rapids for the annual camper and RV show. It’s only a few months away from warmer days.

I also talk a little about basketball and “Star Wars,” two of my favorite passions.

It’s all in my Gonzo’s Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.

Have a great, safe weekend.

Here we go.

Gonzo’s Top 5

 

From a previous year’s City of Kentwood Daddy-Daughter Dance, which this year will be expanded to be an “all family” dance. (WKTV)

5. Daddy Daughter Dance 


Pre-registration is sold out for this event as kids bring their dads, moms, grandparents or other relatives as their “date” to a Winter Wonderland theme on Saturday (Jan. 22) at Kentwood Library, 4950 Breton SE. Organizers are accepting names over the phone for the waiting list and will notify if there are cancellations. Call 616-656-5270 to be added to the waitlist. More info at https://www.kentwood.us/events_detail_T53_R52.php.

4. Grand Rapids Gold ‘Star Wars’ Night

If you’re a “Star Wars” fan looking for an excuse to see a Grand Rapids Gold basketball game, then head out to “Star Wars” Night on Saturday (Jan. 22) at the DeltaPlex Arena. “Help the Gold channel the force and take down the Fort Wayne Mad Ants,” says the team. The first 500 fans in the door will receive a free lightsaber. And anyone who wears a Star Wars costume or merch gets a free ticket to the game. Doors open at 6 p.m. The game tips off at 7 p.m. Also, the Saturday $44 Four-Pack special is available. Fans get four tickets, four hot dogs and four sodas for $44.. More details at https://grandrapids.gleague.nba.com/star-wars-night/.

3. The Harlem Globetrotters

Speaking of basketball, one of my favorite memories as a dad and coach was taking my middle school basketball team to see the iconic Harlem Globetrotters in action. One year we even had a player come to practice to show off their skills. I promise you this is an experience the kids will never forget. The Globetrotters perform at 2 p.m. Sunday (Jan. 23) at Van Andel Arena. More information and ticket information at www.vanandelarena.com.

2. World of Winter Weekend

As part of the World of Winter in downtown Grand Rapids, musical performances and other forms of entertainment will take place throughout downtown from 6-8 p.m. Friday (Jan. 21). You will find these performers throughout the neighborhoods, just in time to grab a drink or a bite at a restaurant or bar. Also this weekend, a pop-up circus performance, curated by GR Circus, takes place from 6-8 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 22) at Ah-Nab-Awen Park near the Gerald R. Ford Museum. You can enjoy live fire performers, hula hoopers, aerial acts, juggling, stilt walking, and more. On Sunday (Jan. 23) enjoy a walking art installation tour. More details on all events at  https://worldofwintergr.com/events. World of Winter continues through March 6.

  1. Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show

When you factor in a dozen West Michigan RV dealers representing more than 100 RV lines combined with 200,000-plus square feet, you get one of the biggest RV Shows in the state. The Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show also features a great selection of RV accessories, as well as campground and travel destinations. The show is today-Sunday (Jan. 23) at DeVos Place Convention Center in Grand Rapids. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 6-14. A Family Zone area for kids is available Saturday and Sunday. Join us Saturday morning at the show, from 9:30 – 11 a.m., for Also, a pancake breakfast to benefit the Cran-Hill Ranch Summer Camp Scholarship Fund is open from 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday. Cost is $5 for adults or $3 for kids and includes all you can eat pancakes, sausage, coffee and orange drink. For more details about the show go to https://showspan.com/GRV/.

That’s it for now.

As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Have a great, safe weekend.

 

John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

County commission terms to become four years, but not until 2024

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

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

One of the items that surprised Dan Burrill while seeking election to the Kent County Board of Commissioners was the fact that the seat was only for two terms.

Dan Burrill

“So basically, I had a year and then I am already back into campaigning,” said Burrill who won his bid to be the District 8 commissioner representing the City of Wyoming in 2020.

Michigan in fact was one of about five states in the United States that still had its county commission terms at two years. Note the “was” because in December Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed bills into law that would extend the terms of county commissioners from two to four years. The change will begin with the fall 2024 election.

“People have asked me ‘What do I get out of it?’” said Kent County Commissioner Stan Ponstein, who is the first vice president for the Michigan Association of Counties (MAC), the organization that worked to get the county commissioner term lengths changed. “And, well, for me personally, nothing as I am at the end of my political career.

“It will be a big help to those counties in the north, mostly the knuckle area and beyond, and in the U.P. (upper peninsula), where they have had problems finding people to serve on the county board of commissions.”

For the lower half of the state, the issue has been more on the cost of running a campaign.

“There have been people who have spent $30,000 to $40,000,” Ponstein said. “That is a lot of money just to be a county commissioner and then have to spend it about every two years.”

Up until 1963, county commission seats were four-year terms. At the time, the group was referred to as the Board of Supervisors. With the development of  townships, which became supervisors, the county boards were changed to Board of Commissioners, serving two-year terms, Ponstein said. Besides county commissioners, all other county- and township-elected officials are elected to terms of at least four years. This includes county clerk and treasurer. U.S. and state house of representatives are now the only government-elected offices that have two-year terms in Michigan.

Stan Ponstein
Stan Ponstein

The change, according to Burrill, gives newer commissioners like himself a chance to learn the ins and outs of county government, which includes representing county interests at the state and federal government, participating in long-range planning and managing the county budget and finances. Much of the Kent County budget covers the sheriff’s office, the courts, the prosecutor, the treasurer and other independently elected county officials.

 

“Having the four years allows you to work together more on a local level while forming relationships and concentrating on the needs of the county,” Burrill said.

The change will not impact the upcoming county election, which is set for this fall. “This will be the last year Kent County commissioners will run for two years,” Ponstein said.

Also, all county commission seats will be up for election at the same time unlike in some city and township elections where seats are staggered for consistency. This is not a change for Kent County as currently all county commission seats are up at the same time.

Ponstein, who will become the president of MAC this year, said the effort behind getting the commission terms changed does demonstrate the efforts of what MAC does to help county commissions boards. Currently, the organization is working on several issues such as mental health and protecting revenue sharing on the county level. 

Photo of the Week: A museum within a school

Citizen Journalism
Frank Rackett, from the Godwin Yearbook, 1945

Once upon a time the basement of the former Godwin Heights High School had a museum in it. Longtime Wyoming resident Frank Rackett had donated a portion of his large flora and fauna collection, it is stated in Godwin’s Past, the collection was more than 3,000 pieces. According to the 1945 Godwin Yearbook, “This collection of specimens has tremendous educational value and represents long hours of tedious work — the efforts of a lifetime and the handiwork of a master craftsman.”

Rackett was a longtime Godwin supporter having served on the school board form 1908 – 1947. In fact, the class of 1945 dedicated their yearbook to Rackett. Rackett became interested in taxidermy when he was a boy and gave a portion of his collection to Godwin Heights and Howard Christian Nature Center. Rackett, a lifelong bachelor, died in 1957. In one short biography, Rackett was described as a “character of local color” who “lived accompanying abandon to any pattern of conformity.”

Pine Rest’s new 12-bed residential unit designed to help with growing substance abuse disorder

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Health, , ,
Dr. Cameron Risma, medical director, outpatient addiction services, talks about the new Birch Lodge Substance Use Disorder Residential Unit. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The gray building tucked neatly on the Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services does not appear to be anything unique, but what it offers to those with a substance use disorder is a bridge from addiction to normal life.

This week, Pine Rest officials celebrated the opening of its first independent substance use disorder residential unit, Birch Lodge, located on its main campus just off of 68th Street.

The 12-bedroom facility original served as Pine Rest’s detox center, which had been moved to be with its substance use disorder residential program.

“What was happening is people who were coming in for detox were not really ready to hear about resources such as AAA or exercising,” said Dr. Talal Khan, the medical director, outpatient and recovery services, for Pine Rest. “What this does is provide a bridge between acute care and life, offering a smoother transition into life and its activities.’

Those in the Pine Rest substance use disorder program may move to the step-down program at the Birch Lodge Residential Unit after completing detox. Residents may stay up to 30 days but the facility’s short-term stay is expected to be seven to 10 nights. The facility includes a living room, dining room and kitchen, double occupancy bedrooms, a class room, exercise area, and offices.

“We will be having dinner together which for some will be a challenge in having dinner without having a drink,” said the Clinic Manager Lisa Zwerk, RN.

The patients at the Birch Lodge residential facility will participate in group therapy, spiritual reflection, case management sessions, technology time, fitness time, and recover support meetings. Patients also will be attending outings to Griffins and Whitecap games along with visiting local restaurants to learn about their triggers and how to plan for them, Zwerk said, adding the group also will visit community-peer led sober support programs as well to learn about resources that are available to them.

 

Khan said it takes time for medications to stabilize and relearn daily activities which is something that the facility offers versus residents going straight from acute care right back into daily life.

“When you have a substance use disorder, you burn a lot of bridges in the process,” Khan said. “Mending those bridges takes time.”

The new unit will expand Pine Rest’s use disorder services from 14 to 26 beds with Pine Rest officials estimating the organization will be able to treat up to 400 additional patients each year through the Birch Lodge Resident Unit.

The Birch Lodge Residential Unit includes double occupancy bedrooms, a living area and an exercise room. (WKTV)

Substance use disorder is a broad term that covers what used to be called substance abuse and substance dependence. The term can be applied to most additions, drug and alcohol as well as gambling, internet addiction, sex and others. According to Zwerk, the residential program has handled about 70 percent alcohol-related dependencies and about 30 percent have been drug related. The need for substance use disorder support has continued to grow with it being exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Khan, there has been 30 percent increase in substance use disorder since the start of the pandemic. The number of people who seek treatment remains at about 10 percent, he said.

Zwerk noted that patients who move on from the Birch Lodge will be able to work with the same professional providers and clinicians as they move on through each level of care.

 

“So a person who has been discharged from the residential program may continue to meet with the same doctors and clinicians they worked with here in outpatient care,” she said, adding that the program is designed for people of all income levels.

 

The Birch Lodge Resident Unit officially opened on Tuesday accepting its first patients that day.

For more about the Birch Lodge residential program or the services available at Pine Rest, visit the organization’s website. 

Financial Perspective: Retirement planning for singles and unmarried couples

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Finances, How-To's, Local Business, ,

By Dave Stanley
Integrity Financial Services, LLC

Photo from Pxhere.com

Retirement planning is crucial enough as it is for a married family. Still, it becomes even more critical for singles or unmarried couples considering that they are not accorded the same tax breaks and advantages which a couple gets upon marriage. Statistical studies report that single women are the fastest-growing group of home buyers, while the number of married families buying a house has dropped by 10% in the last ten years.

With increasing divorce rates and increased tolerance of non-traditional definitions of the concept of a family, the taxation laws have not been able to keep up with the growing purchasing power and numbers of people who fall into the definition of singles or unmarried couples, including divorcees, same-sex couples and singles living in an extended family with other members. What proactive financial planning steps can people who fall under these characterizations take to ensure a secure future?

If you live with a partner, the best thing you can do is be transparent about your finances and discuss all expenses and bills payable, to work out a satisfactory arrangement. This could mean a pooled fund for monthly payments and joint assets, while payments towards significant individual assets are paid for the owner(s).

Remember that there will be no legal recourse in case of a split and the asset not being in your name. If you have joint ownership of assets, contact a lawyer to put in writing arrangements for the distribution of assets in case of a split. A commonly availed arrangement for partners buying a home is under a JTWROS or joint tenants with the right of survivorship. A living trust can be set up to avoid the gift tax, which would be payable for transferring property to the surviving partner.

Funds in 401(k) plans, IRAs, and other retirement plan vehicles will not automatically be transferred to the survivor, as in the case of a spouse. Take special care to nominate your partner as the beneficiary and change as and when necessary if you are single. Write powers of attorney for each other, which would only come into effect in the sudden demise of one partner, or extreme disability. Note that unmarried couples do not have a right to each others’ social security benefits. IRA rollovers from one partner to the other are also taxable, unlike those for a married couple.

Also, laws governing rights over assets and responsibilities for joint debts may vary depending on the state of residence and the contracts signed with financial organizations.

All this means is that for single and unmarried live-in couples, retirement planning needs to be taken a bit further than that done by a married couple to offset the lack of clarity in governing laws and tax benefits. Everything has to be put down in writing in clear terms. It is generally advisable to consult a financial planner and set your finances to go in the right direction before jumping into a long-term live-in arrangement.

Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or  Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463  or click this link:  Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com  Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management

Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber hires entrepreneur, longtime volunteer as next president

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

By Sheila McGrath
WKTV Contributing Writer

Keith Morgan was recently named the new CEO and president of the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Comerce. (Photo by Indie City Photography)

The next leader of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce is a businessman whose experience ranges from corporate management to starting a small business from scratch.

Keith Morgan, 46, will replace outgoing president and CEO Bob O’Callaghan, who is retiring effective Feb. 1.

 

“Our CEO Search Committee looked at over 80 applicants and Keith was the unanimous choice,” O’Callaghan said. “His knowledge of our Chamber and many years of business experience make him a natural. I am proud to turn the reins over to Keith.”

Stepping into the role in the midst of a pandemic, when the definition of “normal” is ever-shifting, Morgan said his goal for the chamber is to get back to basics.

“When I say back to basics, I’m talking about building a better tomorrow. There are going to be some changes we’re going to live with for a while. But business and commerce are always going to be with us,” he said. 

“As we move forward, how do we get back to the basics so we can begin to continue to create change on our own terms? The terms we’ve been given have been dealt to us at this point. Now, how do we begin to take the reins back and effect change?”

Morgan, an Indianapolis native, started volunteering for the Chamber about 10 years ago.

 

He originally came to West Michigan for a management position with AT&T. He got excellent training and experience running a sales division for AT&T, he said, but he got transferred around a lot, from Kentwood to Lansing to Wyoming. When AT&T wanted to transfer him yet again, he took the plunge and started his own janitorial business, All Clean Again.

“I always had ambitions to start a business and actually build something,” Morgan said.

 

Over several years, he grew the business from “cleaning the toilets myself” to employing a staff of about 20.

 

He had already started toying with the idea of selling his business when, as chair of the chamber board, he learned of O’Callaghan’s retirement plans. While actively involved in the search for a new president and CEO, the idea kept popping into his head that maybe he could take on the leadership role himself.

After talking with the chamber’s executive board members and local business leaders, and getting confirmation that they thought it would be a good idea, he made the difficult decision to sell his successful business and go in a new direction.

Keith Morgan officially takes the helm of the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce on Feb. 1. He will be overseeing the annual meeting on Jan. 28 where former Chamber President and CEO Bob O’Callghan will be honored. (Photo by Indie City Photography)

“I came up with this philosophy a few years ago: I’m not  going to continue to let life happen to me, I’m going to make life happen,” he said. “Being an entrepreneur, I got comfortable with risk. I was able to have enough success off the risks I had taken that I was a lot more comfortable with making that decision.”

With his corporate background, a master’s degree in business, and his experience being a small business owner, he thinks he can help chamber members with practical advice to help them be successful.

He also made a lot of connections in the area while owning his business, something crucial to his role at the Chamber of connecting businesses to other businesses.

Morgan will lead the Chamber’s annual meeting and awards dinner on Jan. 28, when O’Callaghan will be honored for his years of service.

“One of the things I am thankful for is that the current CEO and president has navigated the organization to where we are today. We have a good solid foundation,” Morgan said. 

Snapshots in Time: Winter Wonderland

Citizen Journalism,
Photo from Earl Jourden

This winter view comes from the collection of Earl Jourden. Earl owned Earl Jourden Auto Parts which was located on Clay Avenue in Wyoming. Earl said he believes the photo was taken during the 1978 blizzard, which had record 24-hour snow falls. During that storm, Grand Rapids received 16. 1 inches of snow in 24 hours.

Broadway Grand Rapids 2021/2022 season opens this week with the touring production of ‘Hairspray’

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, , , ,
We are all jumping for joy that theater has returned. “Hairspray” comes to DeVos Performance Hall this week. (Photo by Jeremy Daniel)

By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributing Writer

UPDATE: The Tuesday show has been rescheduled for Monday, Jan. 17. Contact Broadway Grand Rapids for more information.

NOTE: We regret to report that the Tuesday, Jan. 11, performance of “Hairspray” at DeVos Performance Hall is postponed due to positive COVID cases within the company. At this time, all other performances, Wednesday — Sunday, will play as scheduled. We apologize for the disappointment and inconvenience this scheduling change has caused Tuesday night ticket holders. Please hold onto your tickets while we work to rescheduled the show. Details will be sent to affected ticket holders by email as soon as they’re available.

It will take 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular show to bring Broadway theater back to Grand Rapids.

“After two long years, we are excited to finally be back in the theater and have the inspiring support of so many in the community,” said Mike Lloyd, interim executive director at Broadway Grand Rapids.

“We expect 15,000 people to attend ‘Hairspray’ this week. What a perfect show to open the season, heartwarming and fun.”

“Hairspray” opens Tuesday (Jan. 11) at DeVos Performance Hall for eight performances over six days to kick off the 2021-2022 season at Broadway Grand Rapids.

In addition, Broadway Grand Rapids has announced $30 Student/Educator Rush tickets for all performances of “Hairspray.” A valid school ID is required, and the limit is two tickets per student/educator. All tickets are subject to availability. Tickets may be purchased in-person one hour prior to the performance at the DeVos Performance Hall Box Office at 303 Monroe Ave NW.

Health and Safety protocols, including proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test as well as mandatory masks, will be in effect.

For more details on health and safety, visit BroadwayGrandRapids.com/health. For more information on all shows, visit BroadwayGrandRapids.com.

Set in 1960s Baltimore, “Hairspray” centers on Tracy Turnblad, a girl with big dreams – and even bigger hair – who wants to change the world.

The reviews have been stellar. The New York Times said: “‘Hairspray’ is fresh, winning, and deliriously tuneful!”

The “Hairspray” cast is led by Andrew Levitt aka Nina West (from “RuPaul’s Drag Race”) as Edna Turnblad, Niki Metcalf as Tracy Turnblad and Toneisha Harris (from NBC’s “The Voice”) as Motormouth Maybelle and features the beloved score of hit songs including “Welcome to the 60’s,” “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” according to the company’s website.

This all-new touring production reunites Broadway’s award-winning creative team led by director Jack O’Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell.

Niki Metcalf is Tracy Turnblad in “Hairspray” at DeVos Performance Hall this week. (Photo by Jeremy Daniel)

“It’s a brand-new world we find ourselves in today, and ‘Hairspray’ is meeting this challenge full-on with even more joy and purpose. Our fable of ‘The Little Dancing Engine That Could’ is even more relevant than twenty years ago when it first burst onto the scene,” said O’Brien in a release.

“With the renewed, refreshed energy of the unforgettable Nina West as Edna and a whole new generation of wildly talented kids across the board, we cannot wait to raise the various roofs once more with dance, joy, music, and that glorious, famous, energy-packed score! Come feel great and grateful once more!” he added.

Choreographer Jerry Mitchell said: “‘Hairspray’ has always been about all of us dancing together! I am thrilled to welcome this new company of amazing #FULLOUT talents to lead the way as we dance across America with a message of inclusion and hope because ‘You really Can’t Stop the Beat!’”

Local musicians get hometown streaming platform through Kent District library

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, , ,

By Sheila McGrath
WKTV Contributing Writer

Local musicians seeking an audience – and audiences seeking local music – have a new way to find each other.

KDL Vibes, a streaming service featuring music by more than 40 West Michigan artists, went live in early December.

David Specht, digital marketing strategist for KDL, said anyone can navigate to the site at vibes.kdl.org and start listening.

“As a library, it’s our responsibility to provide quality, worthwhile, important content to our patrons,” he said. “We saw this as an opportunity to do that.”

  

KDL Vibes brings local music to people who don’t have the means or the opportunity to go to live shows, and it also offers musicians a big new audience. The KDL serves hundreds of thousands of patrons, Specht said.

Mark Lavengood, a songwriter, singer and multi-instrumentalist, has an album called “We’ve Come Along” on KDL Vibes.

David Specht was on the team that brought the Vibes streaming music platform to the Kent District Library. (Photo courtesy of KDL)

“Once I started researching the mission I was just really impressed and grateful for the initiative to perpetuate the local music scene throughout the community,” he said. “Personally, I’m hopeful it might turn a few folks on to my catalog. For the community, I hope that they take to the new service and discover some of their new favorite artists, music venues, and songs.”

You don’t need to live in Kent County or have a KDL library card to use KDL Vibes. But some services are available only to those with a KDL card.

“The advantage to having a KDL library card is that you can sign in with that card and pin favorite single songs and also full albums, so it builds a playlist for you,” Specht said.

About 15 libraries in the U.S. are offering the service, which is built on software called MUSICat.

Specht said there are a lot of music-loving staff members at the Kent District Library, and when they heard about the streaming platform being used in cities like Seattle and Austin, they got a team together to bring it to Kent County.

In September, the KDL had a six-week open submission period when local musicians could send in a sample track and brief bio. They got 130 submissions.

A team of curators active in the local music scene narrowed them down to the 43 that are on the site now. In addition to Specht, the curators are Andrea “SuperDre” Wallace, Ted Smith, Hugo Claudin, Gabriella De La Vega, Eric Green, Linda “Lady Ace Boogie” Tellis, Laura Nowe, and Jake Wunderink.

Mark Lavengood’s album “We’ve Come Along” is one of the 43 albums on the site. (Photo by John Hanson)

“We wanted to make sure we had a collection that represents the West Michigan music scene, doing our best to include music from all the different genres that the musicians here have to offer,” Specht said. That meant they had to bypass some great music if they already had enough in that genre, but the musicians who didn’t get in the first time will have another shot.

Open submission periods for musicians will be held twice a year in the spring and the fall, so the collection will keep growing. The next open submission will likely be in the late winter or early spring, Specht said.

Both the musicians and the curators are paid a $250 honorarium for their contributions to the site.

Specht said they will keep adding new music indefinitely, and they will have a rotating panel of curators so people with a variety of tastes get a chance to choose the music.

“It won’t be the same folks from one year to the next. That’s intentional, so we can give other people an opportunity to work on it,” he said. “I feel like the project will never grow stale.”

Financial Perspective: Dental hygiene stretches beyond just a smile

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Health, Senior Living, ,

By Dave Stanley
Integrity Financial Services, LLC

Pxhere.com

As teeth are one of the busiest organs of the human body, they need to be taken care of with utmost priority. Our recklessness often neglects our oral health (dental health) in eating habits and hygiene routines. Our overall well-being is dependent upon our dental hygiene. A single shred of bacteria can set our whole body in pain and jeopardy as many organs get affected by the bacteria deposits in our teeth.

The matter of dental health includes the overall condition of our gums, salivary glands, lips, tongue, ligaments, and mouth tissues, and chewing muscles. It means being free of ceaseless oral-facial torment conditions, oral and pharyngeal (throat) tumors, oral delicate tissue injuries, and craniofacial tissues, all in all, known as the craniofacial complex.

Dental care is neglected at a very early age, due to which the dental health deteriorates on the arrival of adulthood and mostly in old age. Today, many senior citizens in the US are facing oral health-related problems that affect their overall health. There are ample medical outlets that provide dental care for senior citizens at cost or free throughout the country.

Importance of Dental Health

More often than youngsters, senior citizens fall into the trap of oral health malfunctioning. This is because, after retirement, they find it difficult and unnecessary to avail themselves of dental care facilities and checkups. Secondly, they often have inadequate and unbalanced appetites due to soreness, and tooth loss is inevitable. This minor health negligence can be a driving force behind many other chronic dental and overall health issues.

Good dental health influences the overall health and well-being of a person. Painful cavities and bleeding gums are signs of deteriorating dental and overall health. Children need to be guided about the significance of oral hygiene so that they do not face chronic tooth decay or tooth loss at the slight onset of old age from an early age. Recent reports indicate a relationship between strokes, cardiovascular diseases, breathing problems, and periodontal diseases with dental health.

The tooth diseases start at the onset of plaques, which accumulate in the teeth if they are not cleaned properly. This gives birth to bacteria that can be harmful to the whole body’s functioning, as this bacterium runs through the bloodstream to different organs of the body such as the heart or lungs. This bacterium becomes a hard base gathered at the base of teeth, inflaming the gums and causing painful swelling and bleeding. Daily brushing is necessary for oral hygiene; otherwise, these bacteria thicken into black substances such as tartar and cause multiple infections.

Another reason why you should take care of teeth is because it can cause cavities in the mouth, resulting in holes in the tooth structure. Cavities can rot the teeth at an early age; thus, one entirely becomes toothless by old age. So, if you want to possess some teeth as you age, the observance of dental health is a must.

Studies have also indicated a link between diabetes and tooth infections. Diabetic conditions are more vulnerable to tooth decay, gum infections, and cavities. This further puts a person’s overall health at risk.

Some tips to enhance your Dental Health 

  • It is advisable to brush your teeth twice every day with nutrient-rich toothpaste, like fluoride-containing toothpaste.
  • Flossing can prevent the accumulation of bacteria or any food leftover; thus, it can be done at home or done at a dental clinic.
  • The best practice to keep your teeth healthy is to visit the dentist once a week or twice a month. Dental checkups can be very beneficial as the dentist can advise on the onset of any medical condition or provide counseling on preventive measures.
  • Diabetic patients must immediately visit the dentist if they feel a slight ache, swelling, or bleeding in the gums.

Facilities by Government

In the U.S., the government has devised free medical health, dental, and insurance plans for senior government agencies through which clinics, charities, and non-profit organizations offer extensive medical and dental care. These dental and medical care facilities are free of cost and quality assured, with special attention paid to senior citizens’ health.

The senior citizens can apply for government-funded health programs that suit their medical conditions: a renowned government-owned free health and dental organization. Medicare provides assistance in dental care for senior citizens.

The public medical care service is like a free health insurance plan with comprehensive and extensive medical and dental facilities and allowances. The U.S. government founded it in 1965. This program is for senior citizens, youngsters, and other patients with chronic health conditions and disabilities. The senior citizens can enroll in this program and apply for Medicare medical and dental facilities for 50% and above provisions.

Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a database of specialists and doctors who act as consultants. They also assist senior citizens in understanding the importance of medical care, dental health,insurance plans, and billing processes. Many other such plans can be of great assistance to senior citizens.

Apart from this, every county’s dental association can provide accessible dental care facilities, dental checkups, and dental medicines to the enrollees.

Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or  Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463  or click this link:  Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com  Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management