Category Archives: Entertainment

Water exploration planned in Suttons Bay

Entertainment, , ,

By Fred Sitkins
Inland Seas Education Association

Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) invites the public to engage with water through their Going to the Water Summer Stewardship Series. Opportunities to connect with water include social distancing activities and events, a video series, a virtual fundraising water challenge, and programs aboard the ship. Every activity has a stewardship focus to encourage the protection of water.

“Research shows that being on, in, or near water has many benefits,” shared Fred Sitkins, ISEA Executive Director. “The purpose of this series is to engage people with water and, while they are there, take time to reflect on the experience.” Research referenced by Sitkins comes from the book Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols. In his book, Nichols shows how water can improve performance, increase calm, diminish anxiety, and increase professional success.

Two social distancing activities will take place in June. On June 18 at 10 a.m., families are invited to participate in an in-person Family Water Healer event. A story will be read about a little boy who overcomes his fear of water and participants will be asked to share their personal connection to water through written or visual expression. The event is free, but registration is required as space is limited. The second event is a self-guided Leelanau Trail Water Hunt. Participants walking or biking on the Leelanau Trail can look for answers to water-based clues. Once the clues are solved, a mystery word will be revealed.

In July, the Going to the Water Summer Stewardship Series includes To the Water Challenge, a virtual fundraising event where participants engage with water, reflect on their experience, and share on social media. People can boat, paddleboard, swim, scuba dive, relax, fish, meditate, or do any other activity that is on, in, or near water (e.g., lake, river, pond, fountain, etc.). Registered participants will receive ISEA multifunctional headwear and qualify for awards.

“We believe people care for the things they love,” explained Sitkins when describing the Going to the Water Video Series to be out in July. Local celebrities are being interviewed at the water locations they love and will talk about how they care for that water. “Through all the events in the Going to the Water Stewardship Series, we hope people make the connection that they need to protect the water resources they enjoy.”

ISEA public summer sailing programs aboard the schooner Inland Seas will begin in August. Capacity has been reduced by 50% to accommodate for social distancing and safety protocols will be in place for crew, instructors, and participants. Program content will continue to be the same as pre-COVID-19, but may be delivered slightly different. Tickets are on sale now.

“With the additional time people have by not attending festivals and events, we hope this Series encourages them to get on, in or near water,” said Stephanie Rustem, ISEA Program Coordinator.

Inland Seas Education Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Suttons Bay, Michigan, dedicated to STEM education on the Great Lakes. Its shipboard and shore-side education programs are designed to inspire people of all ages to provide for the long-term stewardship of the Great Lakes. ISEA offers programs to schools, groups, and the public. For further information, contact Inland Seas Education Association at (231) 271-3077 or on the web at www.schoolship.org.

A reunion with Jason Isbell’s latest music, despite ‘postponed’ local concert

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Reviews, ,
Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit. (Supplied/Alysse Gafkjen)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

When summer 2020 live music schedules were being made out early this year, one concert on many people’s “must buy” ticket list was Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit’s June 24 stop at Grand Rapids’ DeVos Performance Hall.

Not only does the alt-country/true country singer/songwriter extraordinaire and his tight band always bring it, they would be bringing along new music from his scheduled May release of Reunions.

Then came March and the pandemic and the spate of sometimes-good, sometimes-not “concerts from home” by every musical artist trying to keep their names and music in mind.

Still, while Isbell’s DeVos concert is a “postponement waiting to happen” at this point — Yes, websites still say you can buy tickets, but, no, it ain’t happening — Reunions was released as planned.

Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit’s Reunions album cover. (Supplied)

And intentionally or by fate, Isbell’s latest collection of music is bluntly reflective not only for our current times (of varying degrees of isolation and social unrest) but for our pending times (of more social unrest and political trials).

Even the album cover speaks of isolation.

And the first single off the release, “Be Afraid”, is a straight-ahead rocker that seems to speak directly to our trying times.

“We’ve been testing you … And you failed … To see how long that you could sit with the truth, but you bailed … I don’t think you even recognize the loss of control … I don’t think you even see it in yourself.”

Read that anyway you want. A fragile society and our place in it? A broken political system the we may have only one last chance to fix? A racial divide that each of us carry some blame for? You call it.

The artist on his music

Well before Mr. George Floyd’s killing and the ensuing social unrest, Isbell seemed to be speaking to issue: “I’m trying to encourage people to be themselves as loudly as possible,” Isbell said about “Be Afraid”. “I don’t know if I’m in any position to do that but I think if we’re going to make any progress as a society then people have to be brave enough to say what they feel.”

But Isbell, and his Reunions work with the 400 Unit, is much more than cryptic lyrics you can read into and a country/rock blur of music that often sounds like nothing else available on the download.

Following in the wake of his recent string of astoundingly accessible yet personal solo work after burning out with the Drive-by Truckers, starting with 2013’s Southeastern, either Isbell’s solo guitar sound or his Big Unit sound has carried him and his audience far. (From not selling out a Meijer Gardens summer concert to filling up the DeVos, for example.)

And while Reunions does revisit some old ghosts — personal trials, relationship failures, surviving at all costs — some of it sounds a bit bigger, a bit more stadium rock; but without losing the small-town perspective driven by a solitary voice and his guitar.

Jason Isbell. (Supplied/Alysse Gafkjen)

“I felt like we had made a statement with Southeastern, Something More Than Free, and The Nashville Sound. Those albums are looking at what happens post happy ending,” Isbell said in supplied material. “They’re saying “I survived—now what?” So I wanted to make something different. … This record probably gets closer to the music I actually like to listen to than anything I’ve done in the past.”

Reunions is Isbell’s seventh full-length studio album and the fourth released with his band, the 400 Unit, a tight, seasoned group which now also includes his wife and mother of his child, fiddler and singer Amanda Shires — yes, of recent fame by forming the country music supergroup “The Highwomen” alongside Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris and Natalie Hemby. The new album also includes several special background vocals from special guests including David Crosby.

A tour of the track list of Reunions, similar to his other recent releases, finds Isbell sliding like a pedal steal riff from anthem rock to ballad to country love song to hymn. And rarely are they not worth the walk.

My favorites — outside of the in-your-face “Be Afraid” and personally introspectiveness of “It Gets Easier” — include the troubadour storytelling of “Overseas”, the gentle touch of “River” and “St. Peter’s Autograph”, and the twangy country sound of “Letting You Go”, which explores his newfound job of father.

“It was a challenge to write about something that is so important to me but that’s my wheelhouse,” Isbell said. “I like writing songs about things that could get maudlin, but pulling back before they do. … I feel like my job as a parent is not so much to protect as to prepare. I think it’s easier said than done because our instinct is to protect at all costs but I feel it more important to prepare her for the world. It’s hard to let them go.”

And Reunions is as much about a past that is still in the shadows as it is about working through the present and into the future.

“There are a lot of ghosts on this album,” Isbell said in supplied material. “Sometimes the songs are about the ghosts of people who aren’t around anymore, but they’re also about who I used to be, the ghost of myself. I found myself writing songs that I wanted to write fifteen years ago, but in those days, I hadn’t written enough songs to know how to do it yet. … In that sense it’s a reunion with the me I was back then.”

After getting Reunions, all we can do now is wait for better days and another summer concert season.

Reunions is available for download at the usual suspects, but please give some business to local record stores such as Grandville’s Corner Record Shop.

Muskegon Heritage Museum joins Lakeshore Museum Center

Entertainment
Popular exhibits at the Muskegon Heritage Museum is the Made in Muskegon such as the Bennett Pump Co. display. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Muskegon Heritage Museum (MHM), an offshoot of the Muskegon Heritage Association, was “gifted” to the Lakeshore Museum Center (LMC) to ensure its long-term legacy after the retirement of Allan and Anne Dake, who have served as volunteer Directors of the Museum for 11 years.

‘Anne and I wanted to retire for a second time to enjoy life and travel, without the worry of the day-to-day operations of MHM,” said Allan Dake.

The Dakes and their team of 80 volunteers built an amazing soft touch museum filled with Muskegon’s industrial history and products made by Muskegon businesses. “MHM is a natural extension of LMC’s collection of Muskegon County’s history” said Annoesjka​ Soler, President of LMC​.​ “The blending of assets makes both museums stronger.” This has been in the works for more than a year and became official June 2, 2020. The MHM building and its contents were deeded to the LMC by the Muskegon Heritage Association (MHA). It is hoped that the MHA will continue with its original focus on historical houses and buildings in Muskegon.

Treasures such as this coaster can be found at the Muskegon Heritage Museum. (Supplied)

LMC hired Kirk Bunke as site manager for MHM last fall. He transitioned into the day-to-day operations role and inventoried the collection of MHM. Kirk worked with Allan and Anne to ensure all facets of the MHM blend with the LMC. According to Allan and Anne, “We still plan to volunteer and interact with the many volunteers and visitors of MHM.”

The history of Muskegon’s industries and businesses is a rich legacy and a sense of pride in the community. The museum the volunteers built is another legacy of which we can all be proud. Despite COVID closures, guests will see new exhibits this year when the Museum is able to open for the season. Stay tuned to the website for opening dates.

Small town stay-cation ideas for those look to stay close

Entertainment, ,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner
West Michigan Tourist Association

As travel begins to re-open throughout West Michigan, people are looking for ways to explore the area safely this summer. For many, this includes options like staying closer to home, avoiding large crowds, and getting off the beaten path. This is a great season to explore some of West Michigan’s small towns, and discover the hidden gems they have to offer.

The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) has put together a “Small Town Stay-cation Ideas” guide, which will lead you through close to 40 of these small towns throughout the area. Discover ice cream fresh from a local dairy, stay at your own beach-front rental, or explore the mom & pop shops downtown. West Michigan’s small towns have a lot to offer, and you’re encouraged to discover it for yourself!



“We’ve seen businesses, restaurants, and towns working very hard to ensure they’re able to offer a safe environment for visitors this summer,” said Courtney Sheffer, WMTA’s marketing director. “We want to encourage people to make themselves aware of, and to respect, new guidelines that destinations have in place when planning a visit. The sentiment that ‘we’re all in this together’ continues to hold true, especially as people start to travel, and plan visits to other towns and areas. It’s up to all of us to make smart choices and ensure a safe summer season for everyone, while at the same time supporting these local businesses which make West Michigan such a great destination to visit.”

The Small Town Stay-cation Ideas guide is organized for browsing by region, or via interactive map. “This summer is a great opportunity to re-discover the hidden gems that West Michigan has to offer, maybe even right in your own backyard!” says Sheffer.



Additional travel resources from WMTA:

Downtown Holland open for business

Entertainment, , ,

By Kara de Alvare
Downtown Holland

In light of Governor Whitmer’s recent Executive Order, shops and restaurants in Downtown Holland look forward to welcoming customers in their doors beginning this week and next. Retailers have opened for customers (without requiring an appointment) beginning June 4, while most restaurants will open for dine-in service beginning Monday, June 8. A handful of restaurants have delayed their opening until later next week or the following week to put the final preparations in place to operate safely.

“Our business owners have been working extremely hard these past few weeks to ensure that the proper protocol is in place so customers can shop and dine safely within their businesses,” said Downtown Holland Marketing Coordinator Kara de Alvare. “They have been eagerly awaiting the Governor’s announcement allowing them to open their doors and they are so excited to begin welcoming customers once again. They also want to express their sincere appreciation to everyone who supported them while their doors were closed.”

Businesses will be implementing a number of safety protocols to protect their employees and customers from the spread of COVID-19. Among these are front door signage outlining safety precautions and occupancy restrictions, installing hand sanitizing stations, requiring employees and customers to wear masks, increasing the sanitizing of all surfaces and ensuring that customers practice safe social distancing of six feet at all times.

Per the Executive Order, retailers will be able to operate with 25% of their total occupancy, while restaurants will be limited to 50% occupancy. To help businesses navigate these new occupancy restrictions, Downtown Holland will be allowing retailers and restaurants to expand their business operations onto the sidewalk and into the parking spaces for the time being. Retailers will be allowed to display merchandise outside, while restaurants will be allowed to expand their current sidewalk café operations into the parking spaces in front of their business.

Customers that are not comfortable shopping in-store at this time are invited to visit www.shopdowntownholland.com shop online and place orders for delivery or curbside pick from their favorite retailers. Likewise, customers who prefer to dine at home can visit www.dinedowntownholland.com for a list of restaurants offering take-out services.

Boyne Theater becomes a community asset

Entertainment, ,

By Kelsie King-Duff
Boyne City Main Street

The lights of the Boyne Theater will shine again!

For the last 18 months a small group of community members have worked closely with Richard Bergman, owner of the Boyne City Taproom and the Boyne Theater, to find a new way to help bring the theater back to life. Bergman has a deep desire to restore the theater. He sees it not only as a benefit to his adjoining businesses but to the entire Boyne community. The Boyne City Main Street program shares his vision and his belief. Bergman recalls going to the Boyne Theater as a boy, and grew up hearing stories of his grandfather seeing Harry Houdini perform there.

Bergman invested thousands of dollars and countless hours consulting with experts and researching options to reopen the theater. Ultimately, he decided that to give the theater its best chance for success it should transition to those who can more directly focus on making the theater’s reopening a reality. On May 30th Boyne City Main Street purchased the theater for $350,000. Boyne City Main Street’s mission includes economic vitality and historic preservation which will, over time, realize the shared vision. Bergman is providing all of his research and plans to support the project. The City of Boyne City, acting in concert with Boyne City Main Street, purchased the adjoining parking lot north of the theater for $150,000. That lot and its 20 spaces are now fully open to serve the public. The effort to reopen the theater will take an estimated three to five years and a preliminary estimate of about $2.1 million to complete.

“We are very excited to partner with Michelle Cortright and the Boyne Theater Revival Team to transition this wonderful historic asset to a new community- owned facility. This transition will move this project forward to a new future of an operating theater again. The grants and abatements afforded to non-profit organizations will allow this project to move forward more effectively and with a great team to set the new direction. Congratulations to the Boyne Theater Revival Team and Boyne City Main Street for a great new initiative for Boyne City,” Bergman said.

Boyne City Main Street has long seen the rebirth of the Boyne Theater as a key element in the long-term success for the community. A previous Boyne City Main Street plan from years ago shared the vision that a key element of a successful downtown was ‘The lights of the Boyne Theater shining again!’ That vision has now taken a first major step forward with the purchase of the property.

Boyne City Mayor Tom Neidhamer shared his thoughts regarding the theater: “Boyne City has a very significant longtime emotional and historical relationship with our downtown theater. This acquisition is the first step for our community to have the opportunity to become involved in the economic redevelopment of our theater, create an economic engine in our downtown, and encourage the historic preservation of a landmark. In my opinion, this is a wise long term investment. This commitment is a testimony to our community’s resolve and past successes. Yes, we can do this!”

The roots of the Theater run long and deep in the Boyne community. The original building was constructed in 1903 by C.I. Bellamy as the Bellamy Opera House, owned by William J. Garland.

It was renovated into a theater in 1915-1916. In 1926 the building was acquired by Mr. Heaton and renamed the Boyne Theater. Another remodeling was completed in 1938, and featured a seating capacity of 578. For decades movies were shown, and later a dance club was added. A second story was constructed in 1994 as a club room, and the auditorium was split into two theaters. During the 1990s the small theater space was used as an adult theater. The Boyne Theater operated until 2003 and has been closed since that time. The theater is a contributing structure to downtown Boyne City’s listing on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been the site of many local and school performances. Many memories have been made there.

Laura Krizov, Manager, Michigan Main Street Program at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, has been alongside Boyne City since the Main Street program took shape. “This project is key in the continued efforts to revitalize downtown. The Boyne City Main Street Program focuses on fulfilling the economic development and historic preservation values that are important to the work of Main Street,” she said.

Michelle Cortright took her son Michael to his first movie at the Boyne Theater. “We went to see The Lion King and he sat on my lap, enthralled. Such a precious memory,” she said.

City Manager Michael Cain had another type of memory however, one of opportunities missed.

“Our family had just moved to Boyne and I was thinking how great it would be for our four girls to go and see movies there. Our oldest was in 6th grade and the youngest in preschool. Jillian, our youngest, is graduating from High School this month. For all my girls, and most of their Boyne City classmates, the Boyne Theater has always been dark and not the safe local option for hometown fun and memories they could have had. This is our best chance to turn that around and create a new economic draw right here in Boyne City.”

For years, several owners of the theater had hopes to reopen it. About a decade ago there was a very serious and productive Main Street and community effort to acquire and restore the theater.

Under the direction of then-Main Street Manager Hugh Conklin, and local event producer Bill Aten, they worked with then-owner Paul Mitchell to donate the theater to the community.

Community volunteers cleaned out nearly a decade’s worth of accumulated odds and ends. A draft agreement between the parties with drafted in 2012. However, those plans did not work out when the adjacent Thirsty Goat restaurant closed and the properties, including the theater and parking lot, were put up for sale together. That cycle has repeated itself several times, under various owners, since the theater closed.

However, during that earlier theater effort Boyne City Main Street learned a lot and made good connections. Visits made to other northern Michigan theaters have underscored the positive impact theaters have on their communities, both socially and economically. Such impacts can readily be seen at the Vogue in Manistee, the State in Traverse City and the nearby successful theaters in Charlevoix and Harbor Springs.

“Boyne City Main Street has always strived to assist in the preservation of historic buildings, as reflected in years of goal planning sessions. A planning session from almost a decade ago listed multiple key buildings in the downtown to preserve, including the Boyne Theater. With the purchase of the theater we can now finally check the last building on that list off, and get to work on restoration and revival,” said Rob Swartz, Boyne City Main Street Chairman.

Now that reoccurring cycle has been broken and a new path forward can be charted. The restaurant can move forward without the burden of the closed theater and the theater can move forward on its own. Finding the right recipe for the theater’s success is now Boyne City Main Street’s top priority.

Boyne City Main Street Executive Director Kelsie King-Duff has community theater experience from her prior role with the City of Allegan’s Regent Theatre.

“I’ve been able to see first-hand the impact a community theater can have on a downtown. The revival of the Boyne Theater is going to serve as a catalyst for the future of downtown Boyne City. This will be another project to that will make our community proud!” she said.

While it will likely take several years for the Boyne Theater to open, a first priority will be to get the marquee lights shining again as a symbol of what is to come. During this time, looking ahead with hope and vision is just what we need. The Boyne Theater is now owned by the Boyne City community and its’ future is up to us.

If you have questions, ideas, stories or even artifacts from the Boyne Theater please contact Boyne City Main Street Executive Director Kelsie King-Duff at 231.582.9009 or mainstreet@boynecity.com

Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Camp Curious program goes virtual for Summer 2020

Entertainment,

By Kate Kocienski
Grand Rapids Public Museum

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) will offer its Camp Curious summer camp programs will be offered virtually to ensure the safety of the community due to the current COVID-19 situation. This summer, kids pre-K through ninth grade can use the Museum as a virtual learning lab, right from their home, to explore the wonders of science, history, culture and more through a variety of camp offerings. Virtual Camp Curious is set to begin on Monday, June 15. 

“Although camps will look different this year, we’re thrilled to continue offering favorites online to the community,” said Rob Schuitema, Director of Public Programs for the Museum. “We’re eager to present this unique experience for curious minds this summer, while continuing to share the Museum’s digital resources and the expertise of our staff to create an engaging experience for our campers.”

Summer camps are divided by school grades with different options for each age group. The GRPM offers options for one-day or three-day camps with a variety of themes, including Slimy Science, Fossil Hunters, Dream it, Build it LEGO® Bricks, Young Wizards Academy and more. These virtual programs allow campers to explore and investigate through hands-on experiments and activities, while using common items in their homes as well as artifacts and specimens in the GRPM’s Collections.

Camp participation will require access to the internet and the use of a device to watch presentations and receive daily instructions. The Camp Curious program will utilize the virtual platform SeeSaw, featuring a live kick-off and wrap up with instructors each day of camp via Zoom. Most activities will take place off-line. Screen time is dedicated for directions and questions for the instructors, with the primary focus of the program being on the hands-on activities. Recordings of each live session will be posted to the SeeSaw classroom following the stream, to allow flexibility for campers to learn at their own pace.

Camp Curious sessions are designed for campers to do projects independently; the Museum recommends that parents of young children (pre-K – 3rd grade) be present. Camp supplies include common items from around your home, and can be interchangeable based on what campers have access to. Recommended lists can be found at grpm.org/CampCurious.

Pricing for camps vary, starting as low as $20 for one-day camps and $40 for three-day camps, with discounts available for Museum members. For more information on Camp Curious and to register today, visit grpm.org/CampCurious. Early registration is recommended. Once registered, campers will be contacted by the Museum with specific instructions for each camp. Camp Curious runs from June 15 through August 7. 

2020 Lowell Showboat Summer concerts cancelled

Entertainment, ,
The 2020 Lowell Showboat Summer concert season has been cancelled.

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

In mid-May LowellArts and Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce sent out a survey to gauge responses from its community on whether to move forward with this summer’s Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts. There were more 350 replies with comments. 

“We know that these concerts provide summer fun and times to gather with friends, celebrate our fantastic regional musicians and provide an opportunity to dance and engage with the performers,” Lorain Smalligan, executive director of LowellArts.

 

The Boards of Directors of both organizations have made the imperative decision to cancel the 2020 series because of COVID-19. The boards strongly trust the decision is a way of honoring health providers, vulnerable community members and visitors. 

“We are saddened, because this decision has not come easily; we have weighed both sides of the scenario through a thoughtful and heartfelt process. Our organizations have a responsibility to follow Executive Orders set forth and we owe it to everyone to keep our community whole.” said Liz Baker, Executive Director of the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce.  Both organizations look forward to returning in 2021, twenty years since launching this series together in 2001.

Musicians scheduled for 2020 have been placed at the top of the list for consideration for the 2021 lineup.

‘Like musicians everywhere, Soul ACCESS is saddened by the recent inability to make music together,” said Roger MacNaughton of Soul ACCESS. “We were so looking forward to bringing joy to the Lowell crowd this summer, but fully realize that it is far better to err on the side of safety during this pandemic. Hopefully, we will be back making music for our Lowell friends sooner rather than later.”

Grand Rapids Public Museum launches ‘Keeping it Curious’ blog

Entertainment,

By Christie Bender
Grand Rapids Public Museum

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today the official launch of its Keeping it Curious blog. Online visitors of all ages can enjoy written content and vlogs with behind-the-scenes stories, in-depth looks at pieces from the GRPM’s Collection, theories behind the design of the Museum’s educational programming and more. 

“We’re excited to share a more in-depth perspective of the Museum with the community,” said Kate Kocienski, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations. “We hope to pique the interest of all ages, while further connecting them to the unique stories of Grand Rapids and beyond.” 

The Keeping it Curious blog will include content written by the GRPM staff as well as guest bloggers. Readers can access the blog online at grpm.org/blog. 

The GRPM is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 and the current State of Michigan executive orders. In addition to the Keeping it Curious blog, the Museum has a variety of fun, educational resources available online for free, at grpm.org/HomeMuseum. All ages can engage with Virtual Discovery Kits and online Collections Scavenger Hunts, as well as explore and curate their own digital exhibits on the Museum’s Collections database (grpmcollections.org), enjoy at-home experiments from the Museum’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/GRMuseum), coloring pages of artifacts, as well as tuning into see the Museum’s two live Lake Sturgeon! For more information visit grpm.org.

Oliver Art Center hosts ‘Make a Mask, Make a Difference’ contest

Community Health, Entertainment,
Oliver Center for the Arts is looking for the most creative masks in its Make a Mask, make a Difference contest. (Public Domain)

By Elizabeth Lane
Oliver Center for the Arts

 Oliver Art Center is helping give back to our frontline workers and healthcare professionals. They have created a ‘Make a Mask, Make a Difference’ contest for handmade masks. Now through July 6, they are accepting donations of handmade masks from crafters, designers, seamstresses, and artists of all ages. The masks need to be latex free, made of breathable fabric, and washable. Both elastic and tie versions are accepted. Submissions will be judged on overall creativity and originality. There will be both a youth and adult bracket with cash prizes! Adults first place receives $250 and Youth first place receives $75. Prizewinners will be announced July 13 and then the masks will be donated to local organizations that need them for employees or volunteers.

“COVID-19 has impacted so many people and we would like to support all of the health professionals and essential workers going to work for us while risking not only their health but that of their family as well,” said Kelly Winter, OAC board member and project coordinator.

“We are hoping to gather 200 masks during this contest. Cash prizes have been donated by an anonymous donor to help encourage folks to create masks as well as provide financial assistance to local creators in a small way. We are always saying how art is beneficial to your health, and this contest is bringing that to light,” says Mercedes Michalowski, Executive Director of Oliver Art Center. Once the masks are collected, they will be photographed and featured in an online exhibition via the art center.

Michael Carbonaro show rescheduled to 2021

Entertainment, ,
Michael Carbonaro has rescheduled his March Holland show for 2021. (Courtesy)

By Jay Allen
Holland Civic Center

The “Michael Carbonaro Live!” show, originally scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2020 at the VenuWorks-managed Holland Civic Center Place, has officially been re-scheduled to a new date of Friday, March 12, 2021 at 7 p.m.  New ticket sales are available now.

Tickets purchased for the March 28, 2020 show will be honored at the March 12, 2021 show.  No action is required by the ticket holder.  If you are unable to attend the rescheduled show, please contact your point of purchase for a refund.  You have until June 21, 2020 to request a refund. 

Purchases through Holland Civic Center Place Office

  • Please contact us as at hccpinfo@venuworks.com with your request to refund tickets.
    • Credit Card purchases please provide: Purchaser Name-Address-Phone-Email, Ticket Seat Information, Order Number, & Purchase Amount.
    • Cash purchases please reach out to the email above for further instruction.

Purchases through Ticketmaster.com

  • You will receive a notification email from Ticketmaster which will include a link to your Ticketmaster account where you can complete your refund request.  Refunds will be processed in as soon as 30 days after you submit your request.

VenuWorks and the Holland Civic Center Place want to be sure the safety of our patrons, performers, and all visitors is at the forefront as we move forward in our attempts to host events for our community.  Thank you for your understanding and we hope to see at this and other future shows.

Known for his original hidden camera magic series, THE CARBONARO EFFECT on truTV, Michael Carbonaro has been seen on television in shows such as Happily Divorced, 30 Rock, Grey’s Anatomy, and CSI Miami. A performing magician since his youth, Carbonaro went on to study experimental theater at New York University with the aspirations of entertaining audiences through a variety of theatrical mediums, including hidden-camera magic, which he later showcased frequently on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”

Grand Rapids Symphony ratifies one-year contract agreement with Symphony musicians

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The Grand Rapids Symphony Society and the musicians represented by the American Federation of Musicians, Local 56, have agreed to a new one-year contract. (Supplied)

By Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk
Grand Rapids Symphony

The Grand Rapids Symphonyand the Grand Rapids Federation of Musicians have ratified a one-year collective bargaining agreement, which continues economic provisions of the expiring contract while implementing several work rule changes.

The current contract between the Grand Rapids Symphony Society and musicians represented by the American Federation of Musicians, Local 56, expires August 31, 2020. The new contract will be in effect from September 1 through August 31, 2021.

Prior to the outbreak of COVID-19, management and musicians were working on a multi-year contract. The uncertainties of the present situation led both sides to agree to a one-year extension of the most recent contract.

“Planning for a multi-year contract right now is no longer straightforward,” said Grand Rapids Symphony President and CEO Mary Tuuk. “This one-year agreement is a prudent course of action that supports our talented musicians in unprecedented times.  The agreement also reflects our shared commitment to advance the mission of the Grand Rapids Symphony over the next year.”

Barbara Corbató, assistant principal violist, and Mark Buchner, section double bassist, who served as co-lead negotiators, said the musicians are pleased with the agreement.

“The musicians of the Grand Rapids Symphony feel very fortunate to have the support of our Board, administration and community leaders as we all navigate these uncertain times,” Corbató and Buchner said in a prepared statement. “These negotiations were collaborative and amicable, with a shared vision of working for a strong organization. This one-year extension gives the musicians a sense of stability with the knowledge that the Grand Rapids Symphony organization will be prepared to begin performing for our audiences as soon as we can do so safely.”

Music Director Marcelo Lehninger said he’s pleased the Grand Rapids Symphony and its musicians have reached a new collective bargaining agreement months before it takes effect.

“Successfully concluding contract negotiations allows us to devote all our energies to work hard to find creative ways to keep delivering music to our audience,” said Lehninger, who has served as Music Director since June 2016. “I am extremely thankful for the support of the Grand Rapids Symphony Board, Foundation trustees, and donors, who allow us to care for our musicians in such challenging times. It makes me proud to be a part of such a united Symphony family and its special community.”

Musicians ratified the contract on Wednesday, May 20, and the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the contract on Thursday, May 21.

The Grand Rapids Symphony has 50-full-time, contracted positions, and about 30 per-service positions on its roster. 

GR Symphony, Meijer Gardens cancel summer concerts, hope to offer alternatives in August

Entertainment, ,
Grand Rapids Symphony Associate Conductor John Varineau and his wife in the Symphony’s From Our Home to Yours series. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Continuing concerns about community health and safety due to COVID-19 has brought organizers to cancel two of the area’s biggest outdoor summer concert events.

The Grand Rapids Symphony officially announced last night that it had cancelled all Symphony events through July 31. This includes the D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops at Cannounsburg Ski area, which runs during the month of July, and the July Patriotic Pops concert at Grand Rapids’ Ah-Nab-Awen Park. The Patriotic Pops concert has been rescheduled for July 14, 2021.

This morning, the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park officialy announced it has cancelled its 2020 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts series.

Grand Rapids Symphony

“It’s with a heavy heart that the Grand Rapids Symphony has had to cancel this summer’s D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops at Cannonsburg,” said Principal Pops Conductor Bob Bernhardt. “We are so looking forward to the day we can safely return to live performances and large public gatherings, and until then, we wish everyone good health and safety, and send our sincerest gratitude for your continuing support.”

Grand Rapids Symphony President and CEO Mary Tuuk added that “While our currently planned July concerts are cancelled, we are thrilled to be able to to give the gift of music back to the Western Michigan community in August through innovative ways.”

Symphony officials stated they are looking to offer community concerts with the format being determined by health and safety guidelines. Since March, the Grand Rapids Symphony musicians and members of the entire GRS family have continued to release virtual performances on the From Our Home to Yours seres on Facebook and YouTube. (See video above.) More than 40 videos currently are available. 

All exchanges and refunds for the Picnic Pops must be made through the original point of purchase. If you purchased tickets through Ticketmaster, you must contact Ticketmaster regarding your tickets. For the Grand Rapids Symphony, you may contact the office by mail, Ticket Exchange, Grand Rapids Symphony, 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suit 100, Grand Rapids, 49503; email tickets@grsymphony.org; or phone 616-454-9451, ext. 4. The GRS office will remain closed indefinitely with the staff working remotely to help patrons. 

For more information, go to www.GRSymphony. org.

Meijer Gardens officials are exploring options to present local and regional performers as part of a modified Tuesday Evening Music Club later in the summer.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

First thing this morning, Meijer Gardens patrons received noticed that the 2020 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens had been cancelled.

“Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and after close consultation of government issued public health pronouncements and orders and numerous conversation with our concert promoter and others, we have made the extremely difficult decision to cancel this year’s Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens,” said Meijer Gardens President and CEO David Hooker. “We are looking forward to a summer full of live music once again filling the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater in 2021 and we’ve already begun planning the 2021 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens.”

Tickets for the series had not gone on sale.

The official announcement from Meijer Gardens does state that officials are exploring options to present local and regional performers as part of a modified Tuesday Evening Music Club series later this summer should the COVID-19 situation improve.

For more information, go to www.meijergardens.org.

Grand Rapids Ballet creates two new virtual programs

Entertainment
From the Grand Rapids Ballet’s Virtual Hug video.

By Michael Erickson
Grand Rapids Ballet

Michigan’s only professional ballet company, Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB), will release two “new” virtual program performances online, one of which will include a world premiere piece from Choreographer-in-Residence Penny Saunders.

This exclusive content (which will also showcase video from past performances) will be made available to those who generously make a tax-deductible donation of any amount to the organization between now and June 11, 2020.

“As the COVID-19 crisis continues, I have been looking for new ways to fulfill our mission of lifting the human spirit through the art of dance,” said Artistic Director James Sofranko. “Our new Virtual Programs seek to replicate the experience of attending one of our performances by offering an evening of ballets handpicked by myself to reflect our times as well as highlight the talents of our company.”

Program I, Classic & Contemporary, will “premiere” online May 15 and feature full versions of the following performances:

  • George Balanchine’s “Allegro Brillante” as performed by GRB in October 2018 – One of Balanchine’s most joyous, pure dance pieces of expansive Russian romanticism. Of it he said: “It is everything I know about classical ballet in 13 minutes.”
  • Danielle Rowe’s “November” as performed by GRB in February 2020 – An exciting contemporary work that reminds us why love isn’t for the faint of heart.
  • Alejandro Cerrudo’s “Extremely Close” as performed by GRB in February 2019 – A unique piece of moving walls and falling feathers will have you seeing the world from a completely different perspective.

“I am particularly excited about the world premiere in Virtual Program II from our resident choreographer Penny Saunders,” said Sofranko. “Rather than feeling stifled by the limitation of social distancing, she is turning challenges into creative jumping off points. The idea this project will one day be re-imagined in a performance venue, integrating the final film with live dancers on stage, gives us all something to look forward to. I especially wish to thank our staff and crew, the dancers, Penny and all of the choreographers participating in the Virtual Programs for their efforts to keep art and beauty present in our world.”

Program II, An Evening with Penny Saunders, will “premiere” online June 12 and will showcase the works of Princess Grace Award winner and GRB’s resident choreographer, Penny Saunders:

  • “Amiss” (world premiere) This never-before-seen work will feature the voices and talents of Grand Rapids Ballet dancers, staff, teachers, students, and board and audience members who have all generously volunteered their time to the creation of this unique piece during the COVID-19 hiatus. It is a collaboration with video editor Quinn Wharton and composer Michael Wall.
  • “Again” as performed by GRB in October 2019 – A sensual, tension-filled pas de deux is a personal story of how a dancer’s life evolves when their career on stage ends and a new chapter begins.
  • “Testimony” as performed by GRB in October 2018 – An important and topical piece influenced by the #MeToo movement.
  • “Ghost Light” as performed by GRB in February 2019 – A haunting work inspired by the singular light often left on an unoccupied stage to provide the longing spirts of the theatre the opportunity to dance in the dark.

“This project emerged to remain connected to my craft and to try and create something meaningful during this time of great uncertainty,” said Resident Choreographer Penny Saunders. “Over the years, Grand Rapids Ballet has become a creative home for me, and I felt the need to express my gratitude to such an amazing community. Quickly, over 30 individuals from across the organization — from young students to board members — answered the call and offered to join me in this collaboration. Dance, as it often does, provided comfort and connectedness. Amiss is a love story of sorts, highlighting what we cherish about our humanity, our creativity, and our arts community.”

A link to view the programs will be emailed to anyone who makes a tax-deductible donation of any amount between now and May 14 for Program I and May 16-June 11 for Program II. The videos will be available to view online for 72 hours. Donations can be made online at grballet.com/donate. To learn more about these virtual programs and all of the good work GRB is doing “at home,” visit grballet.com/grbathome today.

Fountain Street Church to host ‘Streetlight Harmonies’ documentary virtual screening, Q&A

Education, Entertainment, Going Local, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, ,

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Grand Rapids’ Fountain Street Church, in partnership with Grand Rapids Community Media Center, will host a free and live virtual screening of the new Doo Wop music documentary “Streetlight Harmonies, to be followed by a question and answer event, Wednesday, May 20, at 6 p.m.

 

Hosted by Fountain Street’s Virginia Anzengruber, the event will feature film director Brent Wilson, producer Theresa Page, Doo Wop legends Vito Picone, Sammy Strain, Terry Johnson, and Wealthy Theatre’s Sarah Nawrocki.

For the trailer video of the film, see a YouTube video here.

The event is a fundraiser for both Fountain Street Church and the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. Rent or purchase the film through May 20 on Amazon Smile will result in a percentage of the proceeds being donated back to Fountain Street Church or Grand Rapids Community Media Center (whichever is chosen).

 

According to supplied material, “Streetlight Harmonies” is “an entertaining journey through the groups, songs, and harmonies that evoke both days gone by as well as current hits … Streetlight Harmonies uncovers a definitive period of music and the artists that defined it. Millions know the music but few know the artists and their history that laid the foundation for Rock & Roll, Rhythm & Blues, and built a bridge to the Civil Rights Movement.”

“Streetlight Harmonies” is a Ley Line Entertainment production, distributed by Gravitas Ventures. For more information on “Streetlight Harmonies” visit streetlightharmonies.com.

The link to the “Streetlight Harmonies” virtual Q&A fundraiser Facebook event his available here.

St. Cecilia, looking to better days ahead, announces extensive 2020-21 concert season

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Reviews, Upcoming Events,
Christian McBride and Inside Straight (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

St. Cecilia Music Center’s Royce Auditorium stage may be quiet now — first due to delayed and cancelled dates, and soon due to it usual summer hiatus — but, boy, when the lights come back on this fall the venue will be supercharged with must-see concerts for every musical taste.

Announcing its “largest concert season in its history,” late last week, St. Cecilia’s 2020-21 season will kick off in September with the rescheduled folk series visit by Marc Cohn, with the first jazz series concert coming in October with songbird Dee Dee Bridgewater together with pianist Bill Charlap, and the first Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center concert planned for November.

While there is likely something for every fan in the current lineup of 18 shows (the folk series usually grows a little as the season goes on), there are a few highlights, especially the February 2021 inaugural jazz WinterFest featuring Christian McBride and Friends — three nights of music including an undoubtedly hot night of cutting edge jazz on a usually cold winter day when Christian McBride with Inside Straight take the stage Feb. 27.

“Each year our outstanding artist roster grows as the word spreads about the incredible beauty and acoustics of Royce Auditorium,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive director said in supplied material. “We always hear how much artists love our setting, the acoustics in the hall and the ever-so-welcoming audience who they get to see up-close and personal while performing. … This year we are excited to launch a new WinterFest Jazz Festival with Christian McBride and Friends.”

There will be some adjustments as far as ticketing is concerned, St. Cecilia also advises.

“Due to the changing restrictions surrounding COVID-19, we are planning for tickets to be on sale July 1,” Holbrook said in supplied material. “This will allow us to make any further adjustments to this schedule as needed. Our hope is to start concerts in the fall as planned.”

Holbrook also advises that St. Cecilia will scrupulously follow the “new normal” when it comes to safe venue operation and “recommended cleaning and disinfecting protocol.”

And the concert rundown …

As mentioned, the Acoustic Café Folk Series will kick things off with singer-songwriter Marc Cohn in November, and include another rescheduled date with Shawn Colvin in January. Returning artists from past seasons include the Milk Carton Kids in December and Leo Kottke in February, as well as first-time St. Cecilia visits by Sam Bush and then the Watkins Family Hour in November, Kat Edmonson and then Rodney Crowell in March and The Mark O’Connor Band in April.

Rodney Crowell (Supplied/Greg Ross)

To spotlight just one: If you know your Nashville/Austin country music scene, you know Crowell. Not only is he often considered one of he Godfathers of the Americana music scene, but he has sung with and written music for/with the who’s-who of the genre: Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, Vince Gill and Lee Ann Womack —  just to name drop a few.

The St. Cecilia jazz series — in addition to the Christian McBride-led jazz Winterfest, running Feb. 25-27 and Grammy and Tony Award-winning singer Bridgewater with Charlap on the keys in October — also includes the always-superb saxophonist Joshua Redman, visiting with his quartet in January, and acclaimed trombonist, composer and producer Delfeayo Marsalis, with the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, in April.

Joshua Redman Quartet. (Supplied)

McBride’s run on the Royce stage begins Feb. 25 evening he and fellow bassist Edgar Meyer for a “double Double Bass” extravaganza; the Feb. 26 will be a traditional jazz show showcasing McBride’s celebrated jazz career with his trio and special guest jazz singer Cyrille Aimée; and then McBride’s quintet, Inside Straight, on stage “for an unforgettable night of energetic and inspiring jazz” on Feb. 27.

(A bit of ticketing advice, the Joshua Redman night will likely be just as special a night and just hot a ticket as McBride’s Winterfest.)

And, of course, chamber music fans will get their annual night(s) of bliss as the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will perform three concerts: “Sensational Strings” in November, featuring the music of Dvořák, Beethoven and 20th-century master Erwin Schulhoff; “Magical Schubert” in January, featuring three of Franz Schubert’s most significant chamber music works; and “The Brahms Effect” in April, celebrating the music and influences of composer Johannes Brahms.

For more information on St. Cecilia Music Center’s 2020/2021 season, visit scmc-online.org or calling 616-459-2224.

St. Cecilia, jazz pianist Emmet Cohen team up to offer livestream concert May 14

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, ,
Emmet Cohen. (Supplied/John Abbott)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

St. Cecilia Music Center likes to say that “seeing an artist in Royce Auditorium is like having that artist play for you in your living room.” So it seems only appropriate these days that with St. Cecilia quiet and the Royce stage empty, the music center and jazz pianist Emmet Cohen are bringing a livestream concert from his living room to your living room.

St. Cecilia will present one of its 2019-20 season’s Jazz Series artists, Cohen, in a special livestream concert on the music center’s Facebook page Thursday, May 14, from 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Cohen appeared in January with his trio and special guest, legendary saxophonist Benny Golson — and also performed the night prior at St. Cecilia’s Maestro Society Dinner. He has also played at SCMC with Christian McBride and Tip City.

According to supplied material. “Emmet says that he loves the people at St. Cecilia, and wanted to do a concert specifically for our audience.”

Virtual Arts Festival set to take place June 5 and 6

Entertainment, ,

By David Abbott
Festival of the Arts

David Abbott, Festival’s Executive Director

While we are not yet able to gather for concerts, go to the ballet, or walk through art galleries, Festival of the Arts and the other 20 cultural organizations that make up the Grand Rapids Arts Working Group are working together to host a Virtual Arts Festival. This special event will stream live on WOODTV.com 10 am-9 pm Friday, June 5, with an encore showing on Saturday, June 6 – the traditional weekend Festival of the Arts would take place in downtown Grand Rapids.

“Partnering with over twenty arts and culture organizations, the production/design team of Sidecar Studios and Well Design, and hundreds of artists and performers on the Virtual Arts Festival, showcases the collaborative spirit of our community,” says David Abbott, Executive Director of Festival of the Arts. “The recent restoration project of Alexander Calder’s La Grande Vitesse celebrates the restorative power of the arts for us all!“
 

This virtual event will highlight the Grand Rapids’ area local talent, including performing, visual, and culinary arts, along with performances from the Grand Rapids Symphony, Ebony Road Players, Grand Rapids Ballet, Opera Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, and more.
 

“People need the arts now more than ever as we begin to process this epidemic and move forward. The ingenuity of Festival of the Arts by creating this virtual event signals a wonderful opportunity for healing in our community,“ says Emilee Syrewicze, Executive Director of Opera Grand Rapids.
 

“It’s been a privilege for the Grand Rapids Symphony to serve as honorary co-chairs for Festival of the Arts this past year. Though it won’t be the same, we’re just as thrilled to share our gift of music with the community at the Virtual Arts Festival,” said President and CEO Mary Tuuk. “Music not only is one of our greatest joys, it’s one of our greatest sources of comfort in trying times. When we need it, we can count on music to nourish our soul and lift our spirits.”
 

Performers interested in submitting work for consideration may send a recorded video to festivalgr.org/virtual-art-festival by May 15th. Submissions must be original work or public domain to be considered.
 

Visual artists can upload a photo of artwork to fs22.formsite.com/festivalgr/mvn9edyis8/index to apply to be featured in the online Regional Arts Exhibition, which will be included in the streaming Virtual Arts Festival as well as housed on the Festival of the Arts website. Submissions must be received by midnight May 14th.
 

The 11-hour streaming event will culminate in a showcase presentation including Mayor Rosalyn Bliss and City Manager Mark Washington, leaders from Grand Rapids Arts Working Group organizations, and a performance from the Grand Rapids Symphony.

Kendall College of Art and Design announces virtual commencement ceremony, online student exhibitions

Entertainment, , ,

WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Like many colleges and universities across the nation, Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) has had to make difficult decisions to protect the health and safety of its campus community and guests in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Finding creative ways to celebrate the college’s 2020 graduating class in light of restrictions on in person gatherings, however, was not one of them. Following Governor Whitmer’s initial Executive Order, KCAD quickly mobilized faculty, staff, and students in a collaborative effort to transition its 2020 Commencement ceremony and Annual Student Exhibitions to an online format.

“This is not the spring any of us had in mind, but we felt it absolutely vital to do everything in our power to celebrate the KCAD Class of 2020, and all they’ve worked so hard to achieve, as best as possible under the current circumstances,” said KCAD Interim President Tara McCrackin. “We hope to hold physical events when it is safe to do so, but for now we’re thrilled to be able to shine a light on these amazing students for the whole world to see, and we’re so proud of everyone in our community for rallying together and going above and beyond to make this possible.”

The 2020 Commencement ceremony will take the form of a preproduced video in which content from across the KCAD community has converged to recreate the college’s annual commencement traditions, including a Valedictorian Address, Graduate Address, Faculty Farewell Address, the ceremonial Conferral of Degrees, and most importantly, individual recognition of each graduate, complete with their headshot, a list of academic honors, and an image of work they’ve chosen to represent their creative practice. 

The ceremony will be streamed live on the KCAD Facebook page Saturday, May 9 at 10 a.m., enabling graduates and their loved ones to tune in from anywhere in the world and connect with one another by posting celebratory images and notes of congratulations.

Each Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University graduate received a special “Watch Box” full of goodies. (Supplied)

Additionally, a “Watch Box” has been mailed to the house where each graduate is currently sheltering-in-place, filled with a congratulatory yard sign, KCAD Alumni apparel, and snacks to further lend a celebratory air to the ceremony.

KCAD’s Annual Student Exhibitions, which normally transform campus into a massive gallery space, will also be presented online and promoted broadly to a global audience on social media. Starting at 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, the following exhibitions will be available to view at kcad2020.org:

Master’s Thesis Exhibition – Featuring the fully-developed work of those students who have completed their graduate studies at KCAD and offering a window into their creative process.

Excellence Awards Exhibition – Showcasing KCAD’s 2020 Excellence Award winners, those graduating undergraduate students who exhibit a rare level of mastery and accomplishment in their chosen field.

Undergraduate Senior Exhibition – Converging creative work from each graduating undergraduate student into a powerful reflection of the breadth and depth of their talent and accomplishments.

On Friday, May 8, KCAD’s annual Excellence Awards ceremony—at which awardees are honored in the presence of friends and family with a spoken tribute from their faculty and a slideshow presentation of their creative work—will also take place online, but will continue the tradition of being a more intimate celebration, limited to a private audience.


For the Commencement ceremony and the online exhibitions, KCAD invites anyone to join in the celebration, especially those interested in learning more about what a KCAD education has to offer aspiring creative professionals. 

“That our community has stood united in the face of these immense challenges to support our students’ creative, professional, and personal growth is no surprise, because it’s in our DNA,” said McCrackin. “A KCAD degree matters, not because it comes from a big school in a big city, but because its driven by a personalized approach to understanding who our students are, what drives them to create, and the mark they want to make on the world. Only then can we empower them to be the creative leaders and problem solvers the future so desperately needs.”


For more information, visit kcad.edu.

Isle Royale National Park celebrates 80th anniversary

Entertainment,

By Brad Barnett
Keweenaw Convention and Visitors Bureau

The least visited of the United States’ national parks (outside of Alaska) celebrated its 80th anniversary this April. Isle Royale National Park, located in the heart of Lake Superior, attracts travelers from around the globe seeking backcountry experiences. The remote paradise is only accessible by boat or seaplane.

But those who do make the journey find themselves coming back again…and again. In fact, Isle Royale visitors typically stay there 3.5 days, while the average visit to a national park is about 4 hours.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially established the 45-mile long island as a national park on April 3, 1940, but it was first acquired by the U.S. from the Ojibwa tribe in 1843. It was added to the National Wilderness Preservation System in 1976, and over 98% of Isle Royale is now federally owned land that is open to the public. In 1981 the United Nations designated Isle Royale as an International Biosphere Reserve, giving it global scientific and educational significance. It is still a location for extensive biological, historical and ecological research.

The park, consisting of the main island (Isle Royale) and approximately 400 smaller islands, offers incredible hiking, fishing, camping, and paddling opportunities to its visitors. And because of its almost complete absence of light pollution, the park makes for one of the best locations to observe the majestic aurora borealis (Northern Lights) and truly dark skies.

The park is best known for the local moose and gray wolf populations, but visitors may also stumble upon other small mammals like beavers, red foxes, snowshoe hare, minks, and river otters. The haunting call of loons, which nest along the shorelines, is one of the most memorable experiences.

“No other national park offers such an intimate experience with the outdoors,” explained Brad Barnett, executive director for the Keweenaw Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Isle Royale’s remoteness and undisturbed ecology are precisely why visitors love the island.”

Hear live GR Symphony concerts on Blue Lake Radio every Sunday in May

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , ,

By Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk
Grand Rapids Symphony

Grand Rapids Symphony Music Director Marcelo Lehninger leads the Grand Rapids Symphony in its 2019-2020 opening performance. (Supplied) 

In this time of social distancing, we need music now more than ever. While concert halls, movie theaters, restaurants and pubs are closed, the Grand Rapids Symphonyis reaching into its archivesto bring you concerts performed live in DeVos Performance Hall.

Listen to Blue Lake Public Radioevery Sunday afternoon in May and hear your Grand Rapids Symphony in a past concert originally performed live and unedited, so it’s almost like being there in the audience in DeVos Hall.

Tune in at 1 p.m. Sundays to Blue Lake Radio at WBLU-FM 88.9in Grand Rapids or WBLV-FM 90.3in Muskegon or go online to Blue Lake Radio here.

Over the next four Sundays, you can hear music by Gustav Mahler, Piotr Tchaikovsky, Johannes Brahms and Frederic Chopin among other great composers plus such eminent soloists as Grand Rapids’ own Grammy winningmezzo soprano Michelle DeYoung; 2015 International Tchaikovsky CompetitionGold Medal-winning cellist Andrei Ioniță; Grand Rapids Symphony concertmaster and violinist James Crawford; and GRS Music Director Marcelo Lehninger’smother, pianist Sônia Goulart.

The Grand Rapids Symphony performs in DeVos Performance Hall. (Supplied)

Here’s the schedule for Grand Rapids Symphony concerts on Blue Lake Public Radio in May:

Sun., May 3 – Marcelo Conducts Mahler

Originally performed April 12-13, 2019

MAHLER:Symphony No. 3

Marcelo Lehninger, conductor 

Michelle DeYoung, mezzo-soprano

Grand Rapids Symphony Women’s Chorus

One of his most popular orchestral works of all, Mahler’s sunny, Symphony No. 3 was named the “10thGreatest Symphony of All Time” in a poll of professional conductors for BBC Music Magazine. A lover of nature, Mahler spent summers in the countryside outside of Salzburg where he composed his Third Symphony in a tiny shed, built at the edge of a meadow, near the shore of a lake, with a view of the mountains beyond. Grammy Award-winning mezzo soprano Michelle DeYoung, who was born in Grand Rapids, is soloist in the work whose slow movement was arranged for a small orchestra and performed in New York City on the 10thanniversary of 9/11.

Sun., May 10 – Mother’s Day with Maestro

Originally performed May 17-18, 2019

RAVEL:Mother Goose Suite

CHOPIN:Concerto No. 2 for Piano

BRAHMS:Symphony No. 2

Marcelo Lehninger, conductor 

Sônia Goulart, piano

Marcelo Lehninger’s mother, pianist Sônia Goulart, joins her son to celebrate Mother’s Day 2019. One of the most prominent Brazilian artists of the past 30 years, Goulart makes her Grand Rapids debut performing Chopin’s Piano Concerto in F minor, an idiomatic and highly personal work that only could have been composed by one of the greatest pianists of all time. Johannes Brahms spent nearly 20 years struggling to compose his First Symphony. With that behind him, the great German Romantic composer dashed off his Symphony No. 2 while on a summer vacation. A friend who was among the first to hear it before its premiere told Brahms, “It is all rippling streams, blue sky, sunshine and cool green shadows.”

Sun. May 17 – All Tchaikovsky

Originally performed February 8, 2019

TCHAIKOVSKY:At Bedtime

TCHAIKOVSKY:Variations on a Rococo Theme for cello and orchestra, Op. 33

TCHAIKOVSKY:Nocturne for cello and orchestra

TCHAIKOVSKY: Symphony No. 4

Marcelo Lehninger, conductor 

Andrei Ioniță, cello 

Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus

Tchaikovsky was one of the greatest composers of melody who ever lived. In his late 30s, the unabashed romantic truly hit his stride. In just four years from 1875 to 1879, Tchaikovsky premiered his First Piano Concerto, his Violin Concerto in D Major, his ballet Swan Lake, and his opera Eugene Onegin.Nestled among these are his deeply emotional, fateful Symphony No. 4 and his exquisite Variations on a Rococo Theme. Andrei Ioniță, winner of the Gold Medal at the 2015 International Tchaikovsky Competition, is soloist in Tchaikovsky’s only major work for cello and orchestra.

Sun. May 24 – Elgar’s Enigma Variations

Originally performed March 1-2, 2019

SAWYERS:Valley of Vision(US Premiere)

WALTON: Concerto for Violin

ELGAR: Enigma Variations 

David Lockington, conductor

James Crawford, violin

The British are coming, the British are coming, led by English-born conductor David Lockington.

Edward Elgar mysteriously composed each of his 14 Enigma Variationswith a particular friend in mind. The exquisite “Nimrod” Variation, performed for the opening of the 2012 Olympic Games in London, is heard at the end of the 2017 film Dunkirk. James Crawford, Concertmaster of the Grand Rapids Symphony, is soloist on William Walton’s Concerto for Violin, written for and premiered by the great American virtuoso Jascha Heifetz. Grand Rapids Symphony has previously performed several works by Philip Sawyers, a childhood friend of Lockington’s.

Sun. May 31 – Brahms’ Symphony No. 4

Originally performed Oct. 24-25, 2014

PONCHIELLI: Il Convegno

BRAHMS: Symphony No. 4

Kynan Johns, guest conductor

David Shiffrin, clarinet

Suzanna Dennis Bratton, clarinet

Composed at the height of his career as a composer, Brahms’ Symphony No. 4 was an immediate hit at its premiere in October 1885. Much like Mozart’s “Jupiter” Symphony, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, and Schubert’s “Great” Symphony, Brahms’ last symphony has achieved the immortality and enduring popularity of the final symphonies of those composers. The 19thcentury composer Amilcare Ponchielli is little remembered today apart his “Dance of the Hours” from his opera La Giaconda. But the prolific Italian composer wrote many works for orchestra and bands including Il Convegno, a virtuoso showpiece for two clarinetists, featuring dazzling technical brilliance from both guest clarinetist David Shiffrin and GRS principal clarinetist Suzy Bratton.

Southwest Michigan Cultural Membership Exchange postpones reciprocal free admission month

Entertainment

By Cara Barnes
W.K. Kellogg Biological Station

The grounds of W.K. Kellogg Biological Station’s Bird Sanctuary are open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Supplied)

In cooperation with Governor Whitmer’s executive order, and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the members of the Southwest Michigan Cultural Membership Exchange—SMCME—have postponed the reciprocal membership month originally scheduled for May 2020.

Organizations of the SMCME include The Air Zoo, Binder Park Zoo, Gilmore Car Museum, Kalamazoo Nature Center, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Kellogg Biological Station Bird Sanctuary and Manor House.

“As we continue to navigate the uncertainties as a result of COVID-19 and to best support our members, our organizations have decided it is in everyone’s best interest to postpone our May cultural exchange,” says Sarah Carroll, KBS community relations coordinator.

During the reciprocal membership month of May, guests typically can present their valid membership card and photo ID from any of these organizations to enjoy free admission at any of the other six destinations.

“This is one of our favorite collaborative efforts, and we know our members will miss this popular opportunity in May, but we will evaluate the situation as it evolves to hopefully announce a rescheduled date as soon as possible,” Carroll adds.

“We are looking forward to seeing you as soon as we can open, and we thank you for your support.”

Please visit swmimemberexchange.com for updates and rescheduling information.

At home pleasure — St. Cecilia’s ‘From Prague to Vienna’ chamber concert available in spirit

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, ,
St. Cecilia Music Ceners’s final Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (CMS) chamber music concert of the 2019-20 season — “From Prague to Vienna”, was set to feature CMS co-artistic directors David Finckel and Wu Han, along with Arnaud Sussman and Paul Neubauer. (CMS)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

St. Cecilia Music Center has expressed extreme disappointment that, due to COVID19 restricting, it had to cancel the final Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center concert on April 30 due to COVID-19 restrictions.

And West Michigan’s chamber music devotees were certainly eagerly anticipating St. Cecilia’s final and sold-out chamber music concert of the 2019-20 season — “From Prague to Vienna”, featuring CMS co-artistic directors David Finckel and Wu Han both on Royce Auditorium stage, along with Arnaud Sussman and Paul Neubauer.

Alas, fans will have to wait until the 2020-21 season to catch the chamber music power couple in a live chamber music concert. But they can still catch the program they were going to perform at St. Cecilia tonight, April 30.

As provided by St. Cecilia this week, there are videos available of the pieces to be performed on the program (some personnel have been changed for some pieces).

Dvorak Sonatina in G Major for Violin and Piano, Op. 100

Suk Quartet in A minor for Piano, Violin, Viola and Cello, Op. 1

Brahms Quartet No. 1 in G minor for Piano, Violin, Viola and Cello, Op 25

And for those who love to dig deeper into the music, St. Cecilia also provided the program page from the SCMC program book, as well as program notes. A lecture on the Brahms Quartet No. 1 in G Minor for Piano, Violin, Viola and Cello is also available here.

(Ps. St. Cecilia also have a special message from Wu Han and David Finckel talking about the 2020-21 season’s lineup. And St. Cecilia Music Center’s CMS page will have tickets on sale in mid-May.)

Looking for something fun to do with your kids? WKTV has a new family cooking show

Entertainment, Food, Kids Activities, WKTV Projects,
On the first episode of “Cooking and Kids”, Vlada Vladic and daughter Mikaela will make a cake together. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

kelly@wktv.org

A new WKTV cable television show, “Cooking and Kids”, may be just the thing to help housebound parents and children bond over food — and who doesn’t like bonding over food?

“Cooking and Kids”, produced by Vlada Vladic and Vlada’s Seeds of Life, is a “fun family cooking program created to reconnect families through sharing the love not only for quality food, but also for the enriching experiences attained when children are engaged in the process of bringing that food to the table,” according to supplied material.

The show will debut Friday, May 1, on WKTV Community Media cable Channel 25 (in Wyoming and Kentwood), at 10:30 a.m. and again at 6 p.m.

The program’s mission is to “educate, enable, energize, and engage families to reconnect through a shared passion for quality family time, healthy food and healthy lifestyles utilizing the natural and community resources available to them.”

The premier week’s episode is Lets’ Bake a Cake!, where viewers will learn to make a lemon cake.

“Preserving and passing onto kids one of the oldest arts of baking,” it states in supplied material. Step by step, Vlada and her daughter Mikaela will share how to make a homemade cake using homegrown ingredients.

“Spending time in the kitchen with kids is great opportunity for kids to learn various cooking and living skills as well as to bond with parents and friends,” Vlada says in supplied material. “Baking was one of the essential activities over which families bonded for centuries. In this episode, we are teaching and passing on this important skill onto younger generation.”

Complete schedules of programs on WKTV is on the WKTV web site at www.wktv.org.

Opera Grand Rapids announces new dates for ‘Turandot’

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment,

BY WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Opera Grand Rapids has moved its production of “Turandot” to September. (Opera Grand Rapids)

Opera Grand Rapids has moved its Turandot performance to September. The new dates are Sept. 25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. at DeVos Performance Hall in downtown Grand Rapids.

The performance, which had been scheduled for the beginning of May, was moved due to the governor’s executive order limiting large gatherings.

Those who already have tickets to “Turandot” will automatically have their tickets transferred to the corresponding show in September. For example, if you have purchased tickets to attend on Friday, May 1, your tickets has automatically been transferred to Friday, September 25. You will need your existing tickets to attend the show.

Those unable to attended the rescheduled performance have the following options:

Transfer your ticket to a different of the performance. (For example, if you had tickets on Friday, you can change to Saturday.)

Transfer your ticket to any other Opera Grand Rapids production

Donate your ticket back to help Opera Grand Rapids with COVID-19 emergency relief

Receive a full refund

Fo more information, call the Opera Grand Rapids box office at 616-451-2741.

Looking for a new recipe? WMTA offers free online West Michigan Cookbook

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, ,

By Adrianne Brown-Reasner
West Michigan Tourist Association

With so many people spending part of their time at home in the kitchen, the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) decided to round up the area’s best recipes for home cooks to try their hands at.

Working with restaurants, farm markets, wineries, and more from throughout the area, WMTA has collected and compiled a cookbook full of delicious dishes and drink recipes from around West Michigan. Aspiring chefs and pro home cooks alike will find recipe options to re-create a favorite dish, make a homemade version of a restaurant staple, or try something new.

“We thought it would be fun to share these local recipes with people, especially now when so many people are doing more home cooking,” said WMTA’s Marketing Director Courtney Sheffer. “Whether you’re looking for a recipe for a fancy meal, or something simple to make with the kids, you’ll find a West Michigan recipe here to try out.”

The cookbook is split into four sections: Sides/Apps, Mains, Sweets, and Drinks. A selection of dishes from each section is listed below:

Sides/Apps

  • Cherry Broccoli Salad from Cherry Republic, Glen Arbor
  • Crispy Vinegar and Salt Potatoes from Oryana Community Co-op, Traverse City
  • Cucumber Salad from Grossnickle Farms, Kaleva

Michigan Apple Cheddar Burgers from Fennville’s Virtue Cider (Supplied)

Mains

  • Michigan Apple Cheddar Burgers from Virtue Cider, Fennville
  • Two Hearted Chicken Tacos from Bell’s Brewery, Kalamazoo
  • Apple and Squash Pierogi from Black Star Farms, Suttons Bay

Sweets

  • Apple Crisp with the Dutch Touch from Dutch Farm Market, South Haven
  • Carrot Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting from W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, Augusta
  • Vegan Rosemary Blueberry Scones from Stuart Avenue Inn, Kalamazoo

Drinks

  • Red Sangria from Dablon Winery & Vineyards, Baroda
  • Central Lake Sour from Mammoth Distilling, Bellaire
  • Oliver’s Ocean from Long Road Distillers, Grand Rapids

Journeyman’s Detroit Style Pizza (Supplied)

WMTA encourages people to try out a new recipe, and to share photos of the end result using the hashtag #WestMichigan.



View or download the West Michigan Cookbook (PDF) here: https://www.wmta.org/beer-dine-wine/west-michigan-cooks-at-home-free-digital-cookbook/

New dates for Kids Art Rocs Student Art contest, reception, show

Entertainment
Kids’ Art Rocks! artist Bailey Travelbee poses next to her winning piece, along with Coldwater High School art teacher Mike Mason. To be included in the 2020 Kids’ Art Rocks! art show, artwork should be dropped off at Tibbits Administration Office by June 19. (Supplied)

By Stephanie Burdick
Tibbits

Kids’ Art Rocks at Tibbits has announced new dates to celebrate student artwork with their annual contest offering prizes and the opportunity for young artists to have their artwork framed and displayed in a local business.

Students grades K-12 are encouraged to submit their artwork for the annual show and contest to be displayed at the Tibbits Opera House Art Gallery July 13 through August 3.

“Parents and kids have this great opportunity right now to create art…There are SO many artists sharing online, and there are a ton of art-related activities, tutorials, and creative ideas available. Now is the perfect time for kids to unleash their creative side—the sky is the limit, and how cool is it for these kids to see their artwork admired and part of a gallery show?” said Stephanie Burdick, Tibbits Operations Director and Arts Alive Board Member.

Kids’ Art Rocks has recognized over 250 pieces of student art since the program’s inception. Organizers expanded the program several years ago by moving to an open submission of artwork. There is no cost to enter and students may submit one piece.  Artwork should be flat or on canvas, must be unframed, be a minimum size of 8” x 10”, and also be appropriate to hang in businesses.

All artwork will be presented in an exhibit in Tibbits Art Gallery for the community to enjoy. The exhibit will be juried and pieces chosen for the final exhibit will be professionally framed and entered into the art lease program for businesses to sponsor and display for one year.

The reception, July 29 from 6-7 p.m. at Tibbits, will honor all student artwork, whether chosen for the lease or not. Students who attend the reception will be entered into a drawing to win art supplies. Additionally, cash prizes will be awarded for Best of Show from those chosen for the year-long lease.  Business representatives who attend the reception will be given first choice of lease options.

To be included in this art show, artwork should be dropped off at Tibbits Administration Office, 93 W. Chicago St. by June 19 at 4:30 pm. Each artist needs to fill out a short entry form, which can be downloaded at Tibbits.org/art-2/. For questions or more information, email sburdick@tibbits.org or visit the Arts Alive facebook page at facebook.com/Arts-Alive-Coldwater.

Cutline: 2019

GVSU New Music Ensemble’s newest album features pieces inspired by national parks

Entertainment, ,

By Peg West
Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University’s New Music Ensemble is set to release an album featuring compositions inspired by the scenery of national parks.

Dawn Chorus will be released April 24 on Innova Recordings and will be available everywhere, said Bill Ryan, ensemble director. The 11-track recording features works created to reflect the splendor of Arches, Badlands, Capitol Reef, Grand Teton, Wind Cave and Yellowstone national parks.


Dawn Chorus Director Bill Ryan speaks before the group’s performance. (Supplied)

It is the fifth commercial recording for the nationally acclaimed group.

Ryan has led the ensemble on three tours of national parks to play compositions he has specially commissioned to correlate with each park; a fourth tour planned for this summer has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Composers for these tours were chosen for their strong connection to the natural environment, Ryan said. Each piece reflects the feature of a particular park that inspired the composers, such as its vastness, its landscape or its wildlife.

The album includes all of the pieces from the 2016 tour as well as some from 2014, Ryan said. Two of the composers are Grand Valley alumni who were students when they wrote the pieces: Ashley Stanley and Niko Schroeder.

Ensemble members, all since graduated, recorded the music at Solid Sound Studios in Ann Arbor, Ryan said.

“When we initially started doing this project, I didn’t have the idea of recording it in my head,” Ryan said. “After getting incredible pieces from the composers, I started looking for a way to share it with an audience beyond the national parks.”

Dawn Chorus has been on three tours of national parks to play compositions especially commissioned to correlate with each park. (Supplied)

Founded in 2006, the ensemble is an undergraduate group that focuses on contemporary music. The ensemble has received recognition from national publications and performed throughout the country.

During this period of remote learning and communication, Ryan reached out to students and alumni to record a piece of music for a video showing what life is like on tour with the ensemble. Each player performed an individual part to a click track — some even using just their phones — and then the music was assembled.

The trailer to Dawn Chourus’ new CD. (Supplied)

Mackinac State Historic Parks debuts ‘Explore at home’ online resources

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , ,
The firing of the canons at Fort Michilimackinac. (Public Domain)

By Dominick Miller
Mackinac State Historic Parks

The mission of Mackinac State Historic Parks is simple and encompassing – we protect, preserve and present Mackinac’s rich historic and natural resources to provide outstanding educational and recreational experiences for the public.

With that in mind, MSHP is excited to announce its “Explore at Home” collection of online resources. Included are online exhibits and demonstrations, movies detailing the histories of Fort Mackinac, Colonial Michilimackinac, Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park and Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, activities for kids like coloring books, online puzzles and activities, and easy access to our extensive library of blog posts and timeline histories.

“We hope these resources will be helpful to those unable to visit us now, but at least provide a glimpse into what our sites have to offer,” said Steve Brisson, Mackinac State Historic Parks Deputy Director. “There is a great sampling of material available taken directly from the sites. Other items have been carefully crafted for the website.”

The online collection can be found at mackinacparks.com/exploreathome. Content will be updated regularly, and everything on the “Explore at Home” tab is free.

Curator of History Craig Wilson and Exhibit Designer Keeney Swearer were driving forces in getting a lot of the content created and ready for publication. Marketing Manager Dominick Miller and Brisson assisted with review, ideas, and publication. The team thanks staff past and present for contributions to the content.

“Our ‘Explore at Home’ pages give us a chance to share stories from our museums and historic sites with people who might not be able to physically visit us in person,” Wilson said. “I hope people get a little extra taste of Mackinac at home.”

Downtown Mackinaw Island. (Supplied)

Photos of the Mackinac State Historic Parks’ sites are available upon request. A downloadable version of this release can be found here. For further information call 231.436.4100 or email mackinacparks@michigan.gov.

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

GVSU graduating senior writes ‘An Original Song for the (COVID) Class of 2020’

Entertainment, , , ,

By Peg West
Grand Valley State University

Sentimentality is a time-honored emotion for graduating seniors, and Joseph VanArendonk was feeling that heavily as he approached his last week at Grand Valley State University. 

What sets VanArendonk and his peers apart is the unprecedented mix of emotions that comes from experiencing a lifetime milestone during the pandemic of a lifetime.

VanArendonk channeled those feelings by writing his first ever song: “An Original Song for the (COVID) Class of 2020.”

The piece came together in a weekend. As he wrote a song full of the sentimentality and sadness he was feeling, he also found himself thinking about the he response to the pandemic itself, the lack of social distancing he had witnessed just that day and the strife it is causing.

“The song is just really my internal monologue that rhymes,” said VanArendonk, a human resource management major who is also president of the campus student a capella group, Euphoria.

So the next day he and some his friends, using proper social distancing, of course, recorded scenes for the video about the recommended ways to handle the pandemic, providing a change of tempo in the song and a message: “Understand that you are not alone.”

The result is about three-and-a-half minutes of catharsis and reflection, as well as gratitude and a little levity.

And VanArendonk is looking forward with hope amid the uncertainty. “It lifted my spirits to see an actual date set (Oct. 10) for the postponed commencement. Seeing a solid date is something I have recently learned to value,” he said.

Electric Forest 2020 cancelled, but if you already have wristbands you are set for 2021

Community Health, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation,
One of the many scenes of Electric Forest. (Supplied/Electric Forest)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

A new message popped up this morning on the website of Electric Forest: in the words of one Alan Watts, “The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.”

Electric Forest — which was scheduled to hold its “10th Anniversary Celebration” June 25-28, in Rothbury — announced today that “based on input from state and local authorities regarding public gatherings amid the COVID-19 pandemic” it has cancelled its 2020 event.

But Electric Forest will “move with” the changes and invite its fans to “join the dance” when dancing in the forest is next allowed.

The music and camping festival, which sold out within one hour of its public on sale last December, is now moving ahead with plans for 2021, including offering ticket holders the option of receiving a refund or to retain their wristbands/tickets and camping reservations, which will be honored at what is now calling its “2021 Decade One Celebration”.

“In times like these we are grateful to stand strong with you as the Forest Family,” the official statement from Electric Forest and Madison House Presents reads. “We are eternally thankful to the family members who come together to create so much each year. This includes the artists, actors, builders, food and craft vendors, law enforcement, medical partners, operations teams, production teams, supply partners, and so many others who individually or collectively make Electric Forest so very special and unique.

“We are stronger as a community than we are as individuals. Knowing that we will all gather again soon will remain a bright spark and a guiding light — and we will build our moment together.”

For the complete statement with all the details from Electric Forest HQ, read it here.

Greater Lansing offers virtual vacations

Entertainment

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner
West Michigan Tourist Association

Dreaming of a summer weekend getaway? We are too! So while we all have some extra time on our hands, the Greater Lansing CVB compiled a list of Greater Lansing attractions offering virtual tours, activities, classes, videos, Facebook live events and more. All designed to inspire your virtual vacation dreams.

Link to Greater Lansing’s Virtual Vacation: https://www.lansing.org/things-to-do/virtual-vacations/

West Michigan Tourist Association: Animals return to Savanna at Binder Park Zoo

Entertainment,
While visitors can’t feed the giraffes at Binder Park Zoo right now, they can watch them return to the zoo’s savanna area through its ZooCam. (Supplied)

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner
West Michigan Tourist Association

Although Binder Park Zoo is closed to guests, the resident animals are making their way back to their outdoor habitats to celebrate the return of spring and the 2020 zoo season, and visitors are invited to join them digitally.

Animals who call the zoo’s 18-acre savanna exhibit in Wild Africa home are returning to the outdoor area for the first time this season. Binder Park Zoo has recently installed a new live web camera (“ZooCam”), which allows people to view the zoo’s savanna from their homes.

The ZooCam will offer viewers remote access to watch giraffe, zebra, waterbuck, addra gazelle, addax and bontebok, as well as ostrich, vultures, and storks enjoy the great outdoors in real time. Animals are typically
arriving on the savanna in the morning between 9-10:30 a.m. and return to their overnight accommodations later in the afternoon. Inclement weather and cooler temperatures are factors that may prevent some African animal species like the giraffe from going on exhibit, so using the weather forecast as a guide may offer better animal sightings.

Check out the zoo’s live camera for real-time views to see what the animals in Wild Africa are up to, and stay tuned to Binder Park Zoo’s website at www.binderparkzoo.org and Facebook page for announcements
regarding the zoo’s opening date for the 2020 season.

Muskegon Museum of Art announces rescheduled annual gala, other events

Beer, Community Health, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events,
A scene from the Muskegon Museum of Art. (MMA photo by Jennifer Green Photography)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Muskegon Museum of Art this week announced to members the rescheduling of several events postponed due to COVID-19 related “Stay at Home” restrictions, most notably that the MMA’s annual Gala has been moved to Saturday, Aug. 29.

“As you know, we are a program heavy organization and, disappointingly, have had to cancel and reschedule dozens of events,” Kirk Hallman, executive director of Muskegon Museum of Art, said in an email to members. “The Muskegon Museum of Art will emerge from this a stronger institution. We have weathered many crises since 1912 and we will get through this together as well thanks to your support! We still have big plans for the future.”

Among the other schedule changes announced were: the J2B2 Concert will be held on Sept. 4; On Tap has been moved to Sept. 25; and the Postcard Salon “will be held this fall.”

In detailing the plans for the museum’s exhibits, the summer Permanent Collection Exhibitions, including a planned major Glass Exhibition, will not open as planned on May 14.

“We will open these shows as soon as possible … It will be worth the wait!” Hallman said. “These shows will now run into November. We are disappointed at having to place the 92nd Annual Michigan Contemporary on hiatus for a year. It will return better than ever in 2021.”

   

Currently, the staff has been “putting volumes of content and activities online including a virtual preview tour of three galleries from this summer’s upcoming exhibitions.”

For more information visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

WKTV’s ‘From Your Couch’ concerts — working through work-from-home, Boardman Brown available on-demand

City of Wyoming, Community Health, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Reviews, WKTV Projects,
The heart of Boardman Brown: Robbie Koets, Shelagh Brown, Anna Joy Tucker and Brian Fraaza. (Supplied/Boardman Brown)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The members of Boardman Brown, a West Michigan band that lit a little musical bonfire at a Wyoming Concerts in the Park summer series gig last summer, are working their way through the COVID-19 restrictions just like everyone else — at home.

While more fortunate than some other local musicians struggling without the income from local gigs, Boardman Brown member’s day jobs are keeping most of them busy — if more than a little starved for human interaction — as they await the opportunity to get back in front of a crowd.

“It’s a bizarre time, that’s for sure,” Shelagh Brown said to WKTV. “Boardman Brown is a side gig for everyone in the band, so thankfully we are all able to manage. (Husband and musical partner) Robbie (Koets) has a full time job, and I have a couple part time jobs that we are both able to do from home. I’m incredibly thankful for the technology that we have that makes it possible.

“And, late summer, fall, I think I can speak for everyone in the band that we’ll be ready to get out there again, make more music, and see people in person.”

Until then, if you’re a fan or soon-to-be fan, WKTV caught up with Boardman Brown on in July 2019 as part of our coverage of the City of Wyoming’s summer concert series. And the Boardman Brown concert is on demand here as part of WKTV’s “From Your Couch” concert series.

Boardman Brown, on stage at a July 2019 Wyoming Concerts in the Park. (WKTV)

The country-rock-pop band features three lead singers, some great guitar play by Adam Newton and Brian Fraaza, and some great covers stretching from County-2000s hitmakers like Drake White (“Let it Ride”) to Pop-2000s hitmakers such as Adele (“Could Have Had it All”). In addition to Brown and Anna Joy Tucker supplying the female vocals, and keyboards, Fraaza brings the more “manly” vocals, with Koets on bass and Jeff Hale on drums.

From the live concert, I particularly liked the cover of Lord Huron’s “The Night We Met” featuring the harmonies of Brown, Tucker and Fraaza, and their version of the new-alt-something artists The New Respects’ lovely song “Trouble” — available both in the WKTV concert and an even better version on the band’s Facebook page.

And speaking of their Facebook page … When you go, defiantly make a stop at their version of the great (and recently late) John Prime’s classic “Angel From Montgomery”. Worth the visit all by itself.

Had to ask: What about that name?

“The band name?” Brown said. “We had previously written music together at a cabin up north, outside Traverse City, and the cabin is on the south branch of the Boardman River. After a bit of thinking and coming up with many names, Boardman Brown was the one that stuck!

In an intimate acoustic setting, Boardman Brown sings John Prine’s “Angel from Montgomery”, one of the band’s Facebook videos. (Supplied/Boardman Brown)

“We had all played together at church in the worship band, and had been friends for long time through that. Throughout that time, I had a local country band (the Shelagh Brown Band) … Anna Tucker and Brian Fraaza also have a duo called Criminals of Eden. The band came together for the first time when the Shelagh Brown Band was competing in B93’s Battle to the Bash quite a few years ago. … After making it to the finals in the contest, we all agreed that this combination of musicians was something special.”

As far as getting through the current COVID-19 time of isolation, Brown is working  through it like everybody else but also sees it being a time of possible growth for herself and the band.

“We haven’t gotten to original music as Boardman Brown, yet. We’ve written together and separately for other projects. And have plans to write together as a band,” she said. “I believe that as we walk through this time apart, and look back from the other side of this, that we will have lots to talk about and write about.”

If your locking for more great “From Your Couch” concerts, WKTV has a bunch of recent concerts covered by WKTV Community Media and available on-demand at WKTVlive.org.