BISSELL Pet Foundation founder Cathy Bissell (Supplied)
The BISSELL Blocktail Party, West Michigan’s premier animal welfare fundraiser, is returning Tuesday, June 7. The last event in 2019 resulted in more than 1,000 guests — both human and canine — coming together to support homeless pets. Pet lovers and their four-legged friends are invited to this party with a purpose.
This year the event, which is from 6-9 p.m. at the East Grand Rapids track, will include live grilling with Celebrity Chef Paul Wahlberg of Wahlbergers. There will be adoptable pets from local shelters, including Labradors, Doodles, assorted puppies, and more. The popular silent auction is also returning with unique art and pet-themed packages.
Other attractions include DJ AB providing music, ArtPrize winner Chris LaPorte creating caricatures of furry friends, and even a specially created Blocktail IPA (I Prefer Adoption) beer.
“This year’s BISSELL Blocktail Party is going to be bigger and better than ever,” said Cathy Bissell, founder of the BISSELL Pet Foundation. “[The] Blocktail is BISSELL Pet Foundation’s primary fundraising event, providing critical support to give homeless pets a second chance. It wouldn’t be possible without the generous individuals who attend and sponsor the event.”
All of the proceeds will go directly to save homeless pets through grants from BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Besides a chance for fundraising, there’s good reason for celebration. In May, the BISSELL Pet Foundation announced a record number of adoptions for its National “Empty the Shelters” campaign. From May 2 to 15, more than 13,500 shelter pets in 45 states—approximately 6,035 cats and 7,469 dogs—were adopted through the event.
“Empty the Shelters” was created in 2016, and was originally hosted in just a few Michigan shelters. Since then, this event has grown to be BISSELL Pet Foundation’s most prominent program and the country’s largest funded adoption event. To date, “Empty the Shelters” has found homes for 96,068 pets and provided more than $7.6 million in direct funding to shelter partners.
“Right now, shelters are so full, and pets are experiencing longer stays,” Bissell said. “This is an expensive program for our small foundation, but it is a proven success. And we can’t turn our backs when we know we can save thousands of lives in one event.”
Tickets to the BISSELL Blocktail Party are available online for $100 per person and $50 for students with a valid student ID. Sponsors at $1,500 and above will receive tickets to the separate BISSELL Sponsor Party on June 6, which will have the talents of Lou Gramm and Asia featuring John Payne. Visit www.bissellblocktailparty.com for more details and to purchase tickets or be a sponsor for the event.
That means it’s the unofficial start of summer. Who’s ready? I know I am.
Let’s take a look at some of things to do this weekend in my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Oh, and don’t forget the Grand Rapids Memorial Day Parade is at 10 a.m. Monday. More info at uvckc.org. The Wyoming ceremony is at 7 p.m. Monday. More information on the Facebook Event page.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. Spring Wildflower Walk at Blandford Nature Center
This is a great time to discover nature, and also learn more about our Michigan spring wildflowers, also known as spring ephemerals. This weekend you can check them out on a special wildflower walk from 1-2 p.m. Saturday (May 28) at Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave NW. According to the event page: “These flowers take advantage of the sun-lit and moisture-rich woodlands to bloom quickly and to go seed in order to ensure their survival until next year. Join Julie Batty, our Land Stewardship Manager, and she leads a walk along the trails of Blandford to seek out some of these flowers before the forest shades over for the summer and they disappear again until next spring.” Cost is $7 for members and $10 for non members. This is an outdoor event. More information on the Blandford Nature Facebook event page.
4. African Market Michigan in Kentwood
Have you been looking for an opportunity to taste authentic African food? This weekend check out African Market Michigan, which will be serving African food and selling African clothing/jewelry all weekend. The pop-up restaurant will be open from noon-5 p.m. Saturday-Monday (May 28-30) at The Social Suite and Rental, 5528 Division Ave S, in Kentwood. Don’t wait too late in the day because they could sell out before 5 p.m. Learn more on the Taste of Africa Michigan Facebook page.
3. Memorial Day Celebration at Berlin Raceway
It’s always a fun time at the Berlin Raceway in Marne. The racing continues this weekend with some special events, and fireworks! On the schedule is the second and final Money in the Bank qualifier for the Budweiser Super Late Models, plus a 50 Lap feature for the Model Coverall Service, Inc. Limited Late Models. On the track they’ll also have the Coors Light Sportsman and the Good Humor Mini Wedges. As always, kids 15 and under are free. Also, military, veterans and seniors 65+ are admitted free. Racing starts at 6:30 p.m. Learn more at berlinraceway.com.
2. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition
In case you have not heard, the Gerald R. Ford Museum has a special exhibition dedicated to artist Michelangelo, known for his famous fresco “the creation of man” and his work on the Sistine Chapel. With special expertise and care, the ceiling paintings from the Sistine Chapel have been reproduced with licensed high definition photos. They are on display now through Oct. 22. According to the Ford Museum website: “While visitors to the Vatican Museums in Rome can marvel at these frescoes only from afar, ‘Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition’ now offers the opportunity to observe these masterpieces close up, in the form of reproductions.” After centuries of use, the paintings in the Chapel had become covered in such a thick layer of dust and soot, according to press materials, “and as a result of this deterioration the brilliance of the original luminous colors had all but disappeared.” This exhibition brings an entirely new perspective to this work by Michelangelo and acts as a form of art in its own right. Learn more at https://chapelsistine.com/exhibits/grand-rapids/.
Grand Rapids’ oldest Farmers Market, operating since 1922, is back for another summer season. The Fulton Street Farmers Market features 118 outdoor booths and additional space for indoor booths. The market hosts an assortment of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, hand-crafted food items, and unique artisan products year-round. The summer season is underway now with expanded hours and days, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The Fulton Street Farmers Market is located at 1145 Fulton St. SE. Learn more at fultonstreetmarket.org. The Fulton Street Artisans Market opens June 12.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Memorial Day is a national holiday that honors fallen soldiers. (pxhere.com)
While for many it is the “official start of summer,” Memorial Day is designed to honor those who have fallen while serving during a war.
It originally was designated for those who had fallen during the Civil War and was observed only on May 30. However the custom grew and by the 19th Century, many communities across the country had Memorial Day celebrations. In 1971, the federal government declared “Memorial Day” a national holiday to be celebrated the last Monday of the month of May. There was a splitting of ceremonies, with some municipalities choosing to celebrate on the last Monday of May while others deciding to keep with the traditional May 30 for Memorial Day activities.
Due to leap years and calendar configurations, every once in awhile, Memorial Day lands on May 30, which is what has happened for 2022. So there will be several Memorial Day events honoring fallen heroes throughout West Michigan.
Since it is a national holiday, government offices such as Kent County, the City of Kentwood, and the City of Wyoming, will be closed.
Kentwood Memorial Day Parade
Wreaths are laid during the Kentwood Memorial Day ceremony.
The D.W. Cassard Post, along with the Amvets Post, will host a parade in Kentwood at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 30. The parade kicks off from the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), near the corner of 48th Street and Eastern Avenue. From there, it will head west down 48th Street to Kentwood’s Veteran’s Memorial Park, located in front of the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. At the park, there will be a ceremony including the laying of the five wreaths, one for each of the branches of military service: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
WKTV will be taping the Kentwood parade and service which is scheduled to air at 12:30 and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and on wktv.org.
Wyoming Memorial Day Program
The City of Wyoming will be hosting its annual Memorial Day program Monday, May 30, from 7 – 8 p.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Garden, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW. (This is located in front of the Wyoming Department of Public Safety building.)
The City of Wyoming will host its Memorial Day program at Veteran’s Memorial Garden. (Photo by Harriet Sturim)
Mayor Jack Poll will emcee and the Lee High School band is scheduled to perform. This year’s guest speaker will be Sean Moriarty. Moriarty is currently a student at Grand Valley State University pursing a degree in Applied Food and Nutrition from the College of Health Professions.
Moriarty enrolled at GVSU after serving eight years of active duty with the United States Coast Guard, where he was a medical corpsman. He sailed onboard the CGC Campbell in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, performing anti-terrorism duties with the Naval Support Activity in Manama, Bahrain, and providing clinical and emergency services at U.S. Coast Guard Base Boston in Massachusetts.
After coming to Michigan, Moriarty enlisted with the Air National Guard as a public affairs specialist where he currently serves in Battle Creek. He is accompanied by his wife, Justine, who is also currently enlisted with the U.S. Coast Guard in Grand Haven.
WKTV will be taping the Memorial Day program, which will air at 8:30 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and on wktv.org.
Other Memorial Day programs
The United States Air Force Band from Washington, D.C. has produced two solemn videos to honor the nation’s fallen heroes this Memorial Day. The first video features the Ceremonial Brass, one of the Band’s six ensembles, performing “Goin’ Home,” with narration by General Charles Q. Brown, Jr., Chief of Staff of the Air Force. WKTV will air the “Goin’ Home” video at several times on Memorial Day. Those times are 9:28 a.m., 10:30 a.m, 12:27 p.m., 3:57 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 10:28 p.m.
The second video features stunning aerial visuals of the bugler, Technical Sgt. Jason Covey, as he solemnly performs “Taps” at Culpeper National Cemetery in Culpeper, Virginia. The unique perspective provided by the drone reveals the scope of sacrifice made by our military members over countless generations. The “Taps” video will air 9:55 a.m., 11:03 a.m., 1 p.m., 7:43 p.m., 9:11 p.m., and 12:08 a.m.
Both programs may be seen on the Comcast Channel 25 or on wktv.org.
Sunday Night Funnies popular Kingpin of Comedy competition starts back on Sunday, June 5. (SNF)
Starting Sunday, June 5, and running through Sunday, Oct. 9, the Sunday Night Funnies stand-up comedy show will hold its fourth annual standup comedy competition the Kingpin of Comedy at The Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
“This is a blatant rip-off of the Funniest Person in Grand Rapids contest that Dr. Grins use to run”, says Brian B. (Brian Borbot), creator & MC of the Sunday Night Funnies. Brian is referring to the successful annual event at Dr. Grins the former comedy club that was inside The B.O.B. downtown Grand Rapids.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title the funniest person in Wyoming!” he said.
Besides the $500 cash there are also prizes from Wyoming businesses Spectrum Entertainment Complex (where the event is hosted) along with their next-door neighbor Craig’s Cruisers, live entertainment venue the Listening Room and Gilda’s Club’s LaughFest. The winner will also receive a Kingpin bowling pin trophy, a customized bowling shirt, and the opportunity to close at the Sunday Night Funnies LaughFest show in 2023. The total prize package is close to $1,000 in value! There will also a presentation from the Mayor of Wyoming declaring the winner the funniest person in town!
“Great idea, I’m on board with that,” said Spectrum Lanes Jr. Partner/Operations Mike Eaton.
Two major events are planning for local foodies who love a good food truck.
Today begins Food Truck Friday at Riverside Park, and then Sunday is the first time Calder Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids will host Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival.
Both of those events make it into my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal. What else is going on this weekend? Read on!
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. LMCU Ballpark Carnival
Nothing says summer like a carnival. Our friends at Skerbeck Entertainment Group always do a great job. You’ll find one today through Sunday atLMCU Ballpark in Comstock Park. More details by clicking here. By the way, don’t forget that the Whitecaps are in action, too. Play ball! More details at whitecapsbaseball.com.
Waffle Nachos! Get them this Friday at GR8 Food Truck Fridays and Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival at Calder Plaza.Taste Buds- Kitchen Connects, LLC (John D. Gonzalez)
4. Food Trucks
As I mentioned, it’s a busy weekend for food truck lovers as two major events take place.
Food Truck Fridays, 5-9 p.m. this summer beginning May 20 through Sept. 2 at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids features anywhere from 12-17 trucks each week. In its 6th season on the north side of Grand Rapids you can expect some of the area’s best-loved food trucks, as well as new ones, too. New this year is a Frequent Fridays Card that will offer you the chance to win prizes based on how many FTF you frequent. More details at https://www.facebook.com/GR8FoodTruckFridays/.
Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival, 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. Sunday (May 22) at Calder Plaza in Grand Rapids, will feature up to 38 food trucks and trailers, making the event one of Grand Rapids’ largest food truck rallys. Music, entertainment, giveaways and a picnic area (bring your blankets) will make this event a lot of fun. More details at https://www.facebook.com/events/1124456104989269.
WWE Smackdown is at 7:45 p.m. Friday (May 20). Raw Tag Team Champions RK Bro take on Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos, in a Tag Team Title Unification Match. Of course, that’s just the highlight. It’s always a full card of entertainment.
All Star Legends of Hip Hop, with Juvenile, Scarface, Trina, MJG, Eightball, Trick Daddy, and DJ Quik, perform at 8 p.m. Saturday (May 21). It’s time to go Old School!
2. ALEgan Beer BBQ and Blues Fest
Looking for a beer and blues festival this weekend? The ALEgan Beer and Blues Fest features five BBQ vendors and live blues music from 2-7 p.m. Saturday (May 21) at the Allegan County Fairgrounds. Tickets are $45, which gives you 15 tickets for 4 oz. beer samples and five tickets for food samples. All festival attendees must be 21 or older to enter. More info at https://aleganbeerbbqandbluesfest.rsvpify.com/.
The breweries:
Tantrick Brewing Co. (Allegan, MI)
Schaendorf Brewing Co (featured in a Collaboration Brew with Tantrick Brewing Co.)
Waypost (Fennville)
OpenRoad Brewery (Wayland)
Rusty Rocket (Pullman)
Paw Paw Brewing Co. (Paw Paw)
Burzurk Brewing Company (Grand Haven)
Murray St. Brewing (Mattawan)
Presidential Brewing (Portage)
One Well Brewery (Kalamazoo)
Bier Distillery (Comstock Park)
Distant Whistle (Vicksburg)
Handmap Brewing (Battle Creek)
Three Blondes (South Haven)
Final Gravity (Decatur)
Harbor Light (South Haven)
Amy Sherman, John Sinkevics, and John Gonzalez. (John Gonzalez)
1.Local Spins Fest
Have you had a chance to attend one of the shows this week to celebrate the 10th anniversary of LocalSpins.com? We did a story on founder John Sinkevics earlier this week on WKTV Journal with a list of his shows and a special Local Spinsation Ale at Rockford Brewing Company.
FRIDAY, MAY 20 (Early Show) – Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill: Blues Night with Jake Kershaw and Hank Mowery & The Hawktones, 7 p.m., $10, tickets available online here.
FRIDAY, MAY 20 (Late Show) – The Intersection: Desmond Jones and The Legal Immigrants at Elevation, 9 p.m., $10, tickets on sale now at sectionlive.com.
SATURDAY, MAY 21 – LOCAL SPINS FEST AT STUDIO PARK (Downtown Grand Rapids)
2 p.m. – Doors open
3 p.m. – DJ SuperDre
4 p.m. – Cabildo
5 p.m. – Hannah Rose Graves
6 p.m. – Full Cord
7 p.m. – Public Access (wsg Emilee Petersmark of The Crane Wives)
8:30 p.m. – The Accidentals
Refreshments, merchandise and sponsor booths will be part of the event. General admission tickets are$20 and on sale now at listeningroomgr.com.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Paddle Antrim kicks off the season with its June 2 event. (Supplied)
Paddle Antrim will kick-off the paddling season on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail with a special community paddle and gathering in Elk Rapids with Short’s Brewing Company.
On Thursday, June 2, Paddle Antrim and Short’s Brewing Company invite the community for a community paddle on Elk River launching from Elk Rapids Rotary Park followed by a gathering just up the road at the Short’s Pull Barn.
This special gathering is the celebration of the upcoming season on Northern Michigan’s only state designated water trail. A community paddle will take place from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. on Elk River followed by a gathering featuring live music, food trucks, and beverages at Short’s Pull Barn.
“In addition to this event, Paddle Antrim is thrilled to offer programming all season long. “After a couple years of uncertainty, we are thrilled to bring back our programming in full force this summer,” said Deana Jerdee, executive director of Paddle Antrim. “Our classes and community paddles are great ways for paddlers to connect with each other and the water in a fun and educational way.”
Paddle Antrim will host 15 kayaking classes for both adults and children. (supplied)
The non-profit organization will host seven community paddles, 15 kayaking classes, four stewardship classes and the beloved three-day Paddle Antrim Festival.
Community paddles are free and open to the public. These relaxed hour-long paddles take place along different sections of the Chain of Lakes and all paddlers are welcome – canoes, kayaks, and stand up paddle boards. Paddlers are responsible for bringing their own paddle craft and personal flotation devices (life jackets) must always be worn when out on the water.
Adult classes teach paddlers the basics of paddling all types of kayaks in a fun and safe way. These classes are great for beginners but anyone who has never received formal instruction will benefit. Kids’ classes are a great way to introduce your child to the sport of kayaking. Designed with fun and water safety as primary goals, these classes teach students through a variety of games and exploration. All classes are taught by American Canoe Association (ACA) certified instructors.
Paddle Antrim has partnered with Grass River Natural Area, Tipp of the Mitt Watershed Council, Little Traverse Conservancy, Kalkaska Conservation District, Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy, and CAKE CISMA to offer four stewardship classes in three different counties in Northern Michigan – Antrim, Charlevoix and Kalkaska. These classes train paddlers to identify and report invasive species while preventing their spread.
The Paddle Antrim Festival will take place Sept. 15 -17. Sponsored by Short’s Brewing Company, the Festival is a celebration of the waterways with two days of paddling and three days of community events.
For more information on all the Paddle Antrim events and classes visit www.paddleantrim.com/events. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Currently there is a need for foster families in West Michigan. (pxhere.com)
According to Michigan Health and Human Services, there are about 13,000 children in foster care with at least another 300 who are still in need of an adoptive family.
The need for more foster homes always exists, according to representatives of the local child welfare nonprofit D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s. Because the need is great, this May, which is National Foster Care Awareness Month, D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s along with others organizations that are part of the Foster Kent Kids are hosting educational workshops to help residents learn more about how they can help fight a crisis-level need for fostering.
“We are at a critical juncture in Grand Rapids for youth in need of stable foster home environments,” said D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s President and CEO Mary Muliett. “Simply put, we are in a crisis. We are in desperate need for foster homes, and we home the community will take the opportunity during Foster Awareness Month to explore this life-saving gesture.”
The main need? Providing temporary shelter for teens who are caught up in the middle of the placement process. For some teens, they wait at the agency all day until placement specialists can find a temporary shelter.
As a way to increase general awareness of the need, Foster Kent Kids workshops are designed to help potential foster families learn more about fostering.
This Sunday, May 22, Foster Kent Kids will host the program “Stand for Teens” at the Wyoming High School cafeteria, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW. The program is from 4 – 6 p.m. and will include panelists such as a foster care youth, adoptive parents and school administration. Through their discussion, the panel will share the lessons, challenges, and rewards of their foster experiences.
On Wednesday, May 25, will be the Zoom program “The Realities of Foster Care.” This one-hour session, which starts at noon, will be led by Rachael Aday, a foster parent recruitment and licensing specialist in Kent County. Aday is known for her passion for providing support and advocacy to relative and community foster homes. She will interview foster parents Josh and Lea Sparks to share their experience in fostering. To register for the zoom program click here.
Both of these programs are free. To register for an event or to learn more about how to foster, individuals can visit www.fosterkentkids.care.
Also to encourage adults to consider fostering, D.A. Blodgett is offering a $245 monthly stipend for each bed made available to a child awaiting a more stable placement. In additional to the monthly stipend, the organization will offer $100 per day when a child is in a home. Along with the payment will be personalized training and support from the organization.
At this time, the organization is seeking volunteers to step up and provide placement for youth ages 12 and older for a few weeks while their next placement is being identified.
D.A. Blodgett also offers a free monthly foster care information meeting, held from 6-7:30pm the second Monday of the month at D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s, 804 Leonard Street N.E., Grand Rapids.
A family learns about some of the work the Kentwood Department of Publics handles at a past open house. (Supplied)
Community members are invited to learn more about how local public works departments serve residents at the Kentwood Department of Public Works’ Community Open House on Wednesday, May 18.
The event will be hosted in partnership with the Kent County Road Commission in recognition of National Public Works Week, which is May 15-21. The open house will take place on Wednesday, May 18 4-7 p.m. at the Kentwood Department of Public Works facility at 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
Community members of all ages will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the DPW facility and learn more about the department. They will be able to meet the public works team, learn more about services provided and explore vehicles and other equipment used by the department.
“From snow plowing and streets to police cruisers and parks maintenance, public works supports many areas of everyday life,” Public Works Director Chad Griffin said. “This event gives us an opportunity to demonstrate that work and connect with residents to share more about our role in the community and the equipment we use.”
The event will feature giveaways, hands-on activities, live maintenance, repair demonstrations and more. Complimentary food and refreshments will be provided. Free silver maple, river birch and blue spruce tree seedlings will also be available for attendees to take home.
Additionally, semifinalists and finalists of the Work Zone Safety Poster competition will be honored at 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by Kent County Road Commission and public works agencies throughout Kent County, the poster contest invited third-grade students from across the county to design a caution sign focused on safety tips for driving through a work zone. A gallery of entries will be displayed during the event.
The Kent County Road Commission will also have team members and equipment on site to share more about the work they do.
“Our crew members are excited to discuss different aspects of their work with the community and highlight how we can work together to maintain safer roads for everyone,” said Steven Warren, managing director of the Kent County Road Commission. ” We are dedicated to improving public infrastructure, and this event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase how we serve our communities.”
The Kentwood Department of Public Works has five divisions that work together to maintain the City’s infrastructure, which includes more than 150 miles of pipes underground and more than 155 miles of streets above ground, as well as City parks and grounds, buildings and fleet of vehicles. The five divisions are building maintenance, fleet services, grounds maintenance, streets maintenance and utilities (water and wastewater) services. To learn more about Kentwood DPW, visit kentwood.us/DPW.
Prior to the open house, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley will provide a proclamation for National Public Works Week during the May 17 City Commission meeting.
The Amway River Bank Run returns to downtown Grand Rapids, and it looks like the rain will hold off just in time for everyone to stay dry.
Please check the latest weather forecast if you have something to do Saturday afternoon. We’re supposed to have some strong winds. Be careful.
What does that mean for other activities going on this weekend? Let’s get to my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. Tulip Time Festival
Speaking of the weather, let’s hope things go well for the finale of Tulip Time in Holland. The big Volksparade is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Saturday (May 14) and fireworks are planned for later in the evening. Country artists Chase Bryant perform at 7 p.m. That show is indoors. Go to tuliptime.com for the latest updates.
4. Stars on Ice
Some of my favorite memories as a kid was seeing Stars on Ice and all of the Olympic stars who come out to entertain. You can experience the best of the U.S. Figure Skating team, starting with the 2022 Olympic Gold and Silver Medalist, three-time World Champion, and six-time and reigning U.S. Champion Nathan Chen. Others include 2022 Olympic Silver and Bronze Medalists, three-time World Medalists and three-time U.S. Champions Madison Hubbell & Zachary Donohue, as well as Madison Chock & Evan Bates, Karen Chen, Alexa Knierim & Brandon Frazier; Vincent Zhou and many more. The show is at 7:30 tonight (May 13) at Van Andel Arena. Details at vanandelarena.com.
3. Middleville Spring Fest
If you want something to do tonight,the Middleville DDA and community partners will feature live music, free art-based activities, a downtown scavenger hunt, the Middleville Market season kick-off, and much more. Attendees also will be able to help create murals and paint pianos. The event is from 3-7 p.m. Check out the Facebook page for more info.
Circle Theatre presents “RENT” in May. (Supplied)
2. Rent
Circle Theatre is back with “Rent,” a Pulitzer Prize-winning musical by Jonathan Larson, which follows a year in the lives of a group of friends, artists, and musicians. It is set in the East Village of New York City during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and explores love, happiness, and the struggles to survive. Performances are set at the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center through May 21. More details at https://circletheatre.org/.
The Grand Rapids Symphony will be in concert at Meijer Gardens later this year. (Supplied/Grand Rapids Symphony)
1.Revolution: Music of The Beatles – A Symphonic Experience
Relive all the classic Beatles songs in this Grand Rapids Symphony performance led by conductor Bob Bernhardt. This Beatles symphonic experience is transcribed and arranged from original multi-track Abby Road masters. It includes a “magical, musical tour with singers, projected images, and surprises from The Beatles archives,” according to press material. Performances are Friday and Saturday (May 13-14) at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids. Ticket availability at https://www.grsymphony.org/revolution.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
About 35 vendors will be on hand tomorrow selling fruit, meat, cheeses, and other handmade items. (Supplied)
The University of Michigan Health-West Farmer’s Market is set to open for the season tomorrow, continuing to serve the community with fresh produce and products, while supporting local farms and small business owners.
When the market opens for the season, 35 vendors will be on-site at the hospital’s Wyoming campus selling local fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, baked goods, plants and more. Artisan vendors will be selling handmade items including clothing and home décor.
“We are looking forward to another great season at the market,” said the hospital’s Head of Community Outreach Michelle Rademacher. “A fun new addition we have this year are local musicians who will be performing over the lunch hour.”
Another addition to this year’s market is the return of Kids Day. After a two-year hiatus due to COVID- 19, Kids Day is back on June 16. The first 250 kids to arrive at the information table will receive a free gift. There will also be activities including a scavenger hunt, crafts, yard games, a traveling zoo and more.
On average, the University of Michigan Health-West Farmer’s Market sees nearly 1,300 people daily during the peak season. As in past years, the market will continue to accept EBT, P-EBT, Double Up Food Bucks, WIC, Senior Project Fresh coupons as well as cash and most major credit cards.
The market opens Thursday, May 12 and runs each Thursday through early October. Hours are 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. For more information visit www.umhealthwest.org.
The weather is supposed to be perfect, sunny with a high of 64, which means the covers will be coming off and the engines will be revving for the Metro Cruise’s annual Dust Off event.
Miss Metro Cruise 2021 Dr. Joules Kelvin will be offering tips for the upcoming Miss Metro Cruise competition at the Metro Cruise Dust Off on Saturday. (WKTV)
The event runs from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Wyoming Moose Lodge #763, 2630 Burlingame Ave. SW. The annual event is the first spring opportunity for classic car owners to roll their rides back down the street and park at the Moose Lodge to be admired. The first 75 classic car participants to this year’s Metro Cruise Dust Off will receive a free t-shirt.
Those interested in coming early, the Moose Lodge will be offering a breakfast. From 11 a.m.-4 p.m., the Moose Lodge will be offering build-your-own hamburgers and hot dogs.
Also Miss Metro Cruise 2021 Dr. Joules Kelvin will be on hand for those interested in the Miss Metro Cruise competition. Potential contestants for Miss Metro Cruise will have the chance to have photos taken from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. with Dr. Joules Kelvin meeting with contestants 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Moose Lodge. The annual Miss Metro Cruise has a preliminary competition on July 9 that narrows the contestants down to 10 finalists who compete at Metro Cruise in August. To learn more about the Miss Metro Cruise competition, visit the Miss Metro Cruise Facebook page.
This year’s 28th Street Metro Cruise is set for Aug. 26 and 27 with events happening at the main stage at Rogers Plaza and a second location at Woodland Mall. The annual event features classic cars of all types. Returning this year will be the Dream Wheels red carpet event hosted by WKTV. The show features unique and rare classic cars.
We celebrated Star Wars Day and Cinco de Mayo, which were so much fun. And this weekend is the beginning of a beautiful stretch of weather as the forecast calls for 80-degrees next week.
We may as well keep the party going.
Lucky are the hundreds who will be attending this weekend’s sold out Taco & Tequila Festival at LMCU Ballpark. I was just asked to be a judge, so you know I’ll be having a good time.
What else is going on? Let’s run down my Top 5 picks, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Gonzo’s Top 5
The Stray Cafe, located at 4253 Division Ave., Wyoming, is where the WKTV Voices’ Storytelling Project will take place on Feb. 24. (Supplied)
5. WKTV Voices Storytelling Night at The Stray Café
Do you love stories? Hanging out with friends? Meeting new people? Tonight is the return of the WKTV Voices Storytelling Night at The Stray Café in Grand Rapids. We have several people already signed up to tell their story. In 6 minutes they will share a tidbit about their lives. It could be funny, inspiring or compelling. It’s up to the storyteller. We’re also taking last-minute signups at the event. It’s free to attend. Come on out. I’ll be there. The event begins at 7 tonight (May 6) at The Stray, 4253 Division Ave S Suite A. More info at https://wktvvoices.org/voices-storytelling-at-the-stray/.
Brooks & Dunn perform at Van Andel Arena. (Photo by Gage Skidmore)
4. Van Andel Arena Concerts
Two big shows are on tap this weekend:
Brooks & Dunn return tonight (May 6) with a boot, scootin’ boogie good time with opening acts Jon Pardi and Tyler Booth. With 20 No. 1 hits stretching back to 1991, you’ll know all the songs, including “Believe,” “My Maria,” “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” and many more.
Sting is back for a show on Saturday (May 7) with special guest Joe Sumner. I’m not sure what to say. It’s Sting! That means every song is memorable. According to press material, Sting’s “’My Songs’ concert is an exuberant and dynamic show featuring his most beloved songs written throughout the 17-time Grammy Award winner’s illustrious career, both with The Police and as a solo artist.” That also means classics such as “Fields of Gold,” “Roxanne,” “Every Breath You Take,” “Message In A Bottle” and many more.
Good news, “Star Wars” Fans. Even if you forgot to wear your favorite shirt on May the 4th (I know two people who did that), you can still celebrate this weekend with a special event on Saturday (May 7) at John Ball Park Zoo in Grand Rapids. Organizers said: “Dress as your favorite character from the Star Wars saga to come learn about the creatures in our galaxy and if you’re lucky, you might just see Luke Skywalker roaming the Zoo.” Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. for Star Wars Day at the Zoo! More info at https://www.jbzoo.org/starwarsday.
2. Tulip Time Festival
It’s time to celebrate Dutch heritage, and tulips, in Holland as Tulip Time returns over eight days with activities in different locations, most within a 4-mile radius of downtown Holland. Tulips can be seen for no charge in public parks and along downtown streets. Overall, more than six million tulips are blooming throughout the city and area attractions. Several ticketed events also are planned, too. Plus, they have parades! To see a complete schedule go to https://www.tuliptime.com/. It runs through May 15.
Stephen Christopher Anthony as Evan Hansen and the North American touring company of “Dear Evan Hansen.” (Photo by Matthew Murphy)
1.“Dear Evan Hansen”
Yes, it’s contemporary, which means references to social media, viral videos, the Internet, chats, etc. But to me, this show is about the basic human nature to be loved, needed and valued as a person. It’s the story about a teenager, Evan Hansen, who doesn’t fit in at school or at home. He struggles mightily. And he gets caught up in a spiral of events that could be his breaking point. In an interview with Meghan Distel of Broadway Grand Rapids, which is presenting the show through Sunday (May 8) at DeVos Performance Hall, she said the musical drama has a “lasting impact” on you. She’s spot on. Even if you can’t attend, find someone who did. Do some research. Stream it on TV. Someone out there needs you. It could be you. Learn more about the show at broadwaygrandrapids.com.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
The Epitones was one of three finalists in The Stray Cafe’s first Battle of the Bands competition held in March. (Courtesy/The Stray Cafe)
Original music should tell a story in a “unique way,” says drummer Matt DeRuiter of the Epitones.
“We strive to share empowering messages and love through our music, along with creating an environment for people to express themselves while listening,” he says in a recent email to WKTV Journal.
His band was one of the three finalists in a recent Battle of the Band competition at The Stray Café located in Wyoming.
Influenced heavily by Pink Floyd and Umphrey’s McGee, DeRuiter says the self-taught trio from Grand Rapids describe their sound as “Psychedelic Rock.” The group also includes lead guitarist/vocalist Chris Gill and bassist Colin Darling.
DeRuiter answered a few other questions about the band.
WKTV Journal: How did the band get its name?
DeRuiter: We spent quite a long time trying to settle on a name and decided on this as both of our guitarists are tone junkies, continue to experiment with new techniques and tones, and are consistently refining their sound. We got the idea from “Epic Tones” and then combined it to be Epitones.
WKTV: How did you get together?
DeRuiter: We formed as a three-piece in 2018, though we have all been friends playing together on and off casually and in different projects since 2012.
WKTV: What are the band’s goals?
The Epitones formed in 2018. (Courtesy/The Stray Cafe)
DeRuiter: We hope to wrap up a few singles this year and to continue playing larger shows. This is our first year playing festivals such as Cowpie, so we hope to continue playing more festivals, new venues, and to work with bigger bands in the area.
WKTV: How do you describe the West Michigan music scene?
DeRuiter: Being relatively new to the scene it has been somewhat difficult to gain traction, especially during Covid. Though as we continue to play more shows we have gained a steady following and are starting to get some more recognition as a band. This Battle of The Bands was a great way to share our music and network with fellow musicians.
Upcoming Performances:
Playing at the Deck in Muskegon June 26 and July 24, playing Dunesville Music Festival, Cowpie Music Festival, and Walk the Beat in Grand Haven.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Paddle Antrim warns paddlers to take precautions to protect themselves from heightened dangers of sudden, unexpected cold-water immersion while on early season paddling outings.
It has been a slow start to spring in Northern Michigan and the water remains colder than usual this time of year. While paddlers and boaters are itching to get out on the water, Paddle Antrim warns paddlers to take precautions to protect themselves from heightened dangers of sudden, unexpected cold-water immersion while on early season paddling outings.
While spring is in the air and outside temperatures are warming, lake temperatures are much cooler. When water temperatures are below 70 degrees, paddlers should wear a wetsuit or a full immersion dry suit with insulating layers. Sudden immersion in cold water can cause gasping and inhalation of water and hypothermia, resulting in unconsciousness or swimming failure as muscles become numb. Wearing a life jacket may keep your head above water and support your body should your swimming ability fail, or you become unconscious.
“We encourage people to get out and enjoy the water, but we also want to make sure people are safe at all times,” says Paddle Antrim Executive Director, Deana Jerdee. “Changing winds, stronger than usual currents, equipment failure – these are just a few unexpected elements that can cause paddlers to end up in dangerous situations. No one is ever expecting to fall in while paddling but it happens, and paddlers need to dress for being in the water, not for the air temperature.”
Cold water claims the lives of experienced and inexperienced paddlers each year. Please take the extra precautions to ensure your safety. Here are the five steps paddlers need to take before heading out on the water for any period:
Always wear a properly fitted life jacket. Simply stated, life jackets save lives;
Dress for the water temperature;
Avoid boating alone and always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Have a cell phone or VHF radio accessible, in a watertight bag, should you need to call for help;
Carry essential safety gear, signaling devices and whistles; and
The City of Kentwood will offer its annual Community Cleanup Day on Saturday, May 7, to help residents “spring clean” their homes and yards.
Residents unload trash into the dumpsters during a past community clean-up day in the Kentwood and Wyoming area. (WKTV)
Residents can drop off yard waste, trash and general debris for disposal and electronics for recycling 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
After the cleanup event, the City’s brush and leaf drop-off sites, also located at Kentwood’s DPW facility, will remain open through May 27. Hours of operation for the drop-off sites are noon-8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-6 p.m. Sunday.
“As many residents begin spring-cleaning efforts, our Community Cleanup Day offers resources to properly dispose of or recycle items,” said Department of Public Works Director Chad Griffin. “We encourage residents who are decluttering their homes this season to take advantage of these free collection services.”
The cleanup day and drop-off services are available to Kentwood residents only. Anyone wishing to participate is asked to enter the drive off Breton Avenue, where staff will check ID for residency and direct traffic flow.
Red Creek Waste Services will be on-site for Kentwood’s Community Cleanup Day to accept general debris and trash, including mattresses, for disposal. Tires cannot be accepted.
Comprenew will be at the event to recycle electronic waste, such as mobile phones, computers and fax machines. Individuals with questions about other electronics that can be accepted are asked to call toll-free 1-833-266-7736.
The City of Kentwood will accept yard waste at the brush drop-off site, including brush, sticks, tree limbs and logs as well as leaves and grass clippings. Leaves should be loose when dropped off, not left in bags.
Items for donation and household hazardous materials will not be accepted during this year’s cleanup event. Residents looking to safely dispose of household hazardous materials may utilize the Kent County Department of Public Works’ SafeChem program, which remains available to residents at the Kentwood’s DPW facility 1:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays.
I’m so excited for May, which officially begins on Sunday.
Why?
May flowers, of course, and the return of Tulip Time in Holland (May 7-15). Also, next Friday (May 6) is another WKTV Voices Storytelling Night at The Stray in Grand Rapids. You can still sign up today if you want to be on stage to tell your story. More info at https://wktvvoices.org/voices-storytelling-at-the-stray/.
Not to mention, May is great for fans of “Star Wars” (May the 4th Be With You), Mexican food lovers (Cinco de Mayo) and moms everywhere (Mother’s Day is May 8). It’s a busy month.
Now, let’s get back to this weekend, and my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Gonzo’s Top 5
Mega 80’s returns to Grand Rapids this Saturday. (Facebook)
And one of my faves, Mega 80’s, returns for a show Saturday (April 30) at The Intersection in Grand Rapids; www.sectionlive.com
The West Michigan Whitecaps will in the newly named LMCU Ballpark this season. (Supplied/West Michigan Whitecaps)
4. West Michigan Whitecaps
The High A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers is off to a slow start with a record of 7-11 going into tonight’s three-game weekend homestand. But, you know what, it’s always a fun time at LMCU Ballpark! Tonight (April 29) is $1 reserved seats night. On Saturday popcorn is $1. And on Sunday it’s Family Sunday where kids play catch on the field and run the bases after the game. You can’t beat that. We just hope it doesn’t rain. Tonight’s game is at 6:35 p.m. Weekend games are at 2 p.m. More details at www.whitecapsbaseball.com.
3. Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Festival
The 18th Annual TAC Jazz Festival continues today and Saturday in downtown Hastings with free performances by student groups, combos and adult groups all around town. In the evenings, head to larger venues for featured headlining performances. Check out the schedule at https://thornapplearts.org/jazzfest/.
The cast of Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s “Kinky Boots.” (Grand Rapids Civic Theatre)
2. “Kinky Boots” at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
Based on the 2005 British film “Kinky Boots,” the musical tells the story of Charlie Price, who inherits a shoe factory and forms an unlikely partnership with cabaret performer and drag queen, Lola, to produce a line of high-heeled boots and save the business. In the process, Charlie and Lola discover that they are not so different after all. The show features music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein. Performances are tonight (April 29) through May 22 at Grand Rapids Civic Theater in Grand Rapids. More details at www.grct.org.
Vintage at the Zoo at the Downtown Market this weekend. (Vintage at the Zoo)
1.Vintage and Handmade Marketplace
Vintage in the Zoo Market is headed to Grand Rapids for its sixth season with a vintage and handmade marketplace at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market. The event features more than 50 vendors with true vintage clothing, accessories, home goods and furniture from creative artists, designers and makers from all over the region. The event is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday (May 1). More details on the event Facebook page.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
City of Kentwood city leaders celebrate the city’s renewed designation as a Tree City USA, by planting a tree of course, in 2021. (Supplied)
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood will honor Arbor Day — and its renewed designation as a Tree City USA — by giving away 250 tree seedlings during an Arbor Day Celebration and tree planting on April 29.
Residents of all ages are invited to join Kentwood’s Arbor Day Celebration at Veterans Memorial Park, 355 48th St. SE., according to an announcement from the city. The event will begin at noon with an Arbor Day proclamation, followed by a tree planting and a half-mile guided tree identification walk in the park. Complimentary refreshments will be available at the concession stand.
Arbor Day is an annual day of observance typically held in the spring to celebrate trees and encourage tree planting. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the holiday.
“A healthy tree population and canopy help improve quality of life and promote happier, healthier communities,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “The Arbor Day Celebration enables Kentwood to engage our community members in environmental stewardship to help make the city a more vibrant and beautiful place to live.”
Arbor Day, locally and nationally
The Arbor Day Celebration engages and educates the community in planting and caring for the city’s trees and is part of Kentwood’s participation in the Tree City USA program.
The City of Kentwood will honor Arbor Day — and its renewed designation as a Tree City USA — by giving away 250 tree seedlings during an Arbor Day Celebration and tree planting on April 29. (Supplied)
Kentwood was recently recognized with the 2021 Tree City USA honor for promoting and caring for trees within the community, the second time the City has received the designation. The first was in 2020.
To become a Tree City USA, cities must have an annual Arbor Day observance, a community tree ordinance, a tree board or department and spend at least $2 per capita on urban forestry activities. The program provides the necessary framework for communities to manage and expand their public trees, celebrate the importance of an urban tree canopy and demonstrate their commitment to environmental change.
Residents invited to get trees, get involved
Leading up to the Arbor Day celebration, residents can pick up free red maple or white pine tree seedlings at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. The seedlings will be available during business hours Tuesday, April 26 through Friday, April 29 or until supplies are gone.
The City of Kentwood will honor Arbor Day — and its renewed designation as a Tree City USA — by giving away 250 tree seedlings during an Arbor Day Celebration and tree planting on April 29. (Supplied)
Residents are invited to post a picture of their planted seedling on social media using the hashtag #GreeningKentwood.
The Kentwood Activities Center is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. During Arbor Day week, residents can check on tree seedling availability by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at 616-656-5270.
Residents who are looking for more ways to get involved beyond Arbor Day are invited to join the Kentwood Park Stewards, an environmentally focused program that helps preserve and maintain neighborhood parks, trails and public spaces.
The Wyoming Spring Carnival will run from April 24 – May 1. (Supplied)
Just in time for the warmer weather at the end of this week, Wyoming’s Spring Carnival returns to Lamar Park on Friday.
The annual event event, only missing 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, will run through May 1 at the park located at 2561 Porter St. SW.
According to Corey Stamps, the special events and marketing programmer for the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation, the activities for this year’s Spring Carnival are the same as in the past.
The carnival will include various rides, games and food options. To help keep all participants, employees, and vendors safe, TJ Schmidt & Company will be operating under enhanced health and safety measures in response to COVID-19. Masks are not required at this year’s event, however the vendor is reminding everyone that there is an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 in any public place where people are present.
Because of the popularity of the Spring Carnival, security for the event has been increased as well.
The times for the Spring Carnival are similar to last year, 4 – 8:30 p.m. Monday – Thursday; 2 – 8:30 p.m Friday; and noon – 8:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The Spring Carnival is weather dependent and before attending residents should check with the Wyoming Department of Parks and Recreation’s Facebook page for updates on the carnival.
Prices are $18 Monday – Friday and $23 Saturday. There are $3-off coupons are available for the unlimited wristbands.
There will be a number of carnival rides and food offerings at the Wyoming Spring Carnival. (Supplied)
A staple in the city city for more than 30 years, proceeds from the carnival support City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation services and the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance or GWCRA. Funds raised support youth scholarships and youth and family programming through the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department. The GWCRA distributes funds to the community its through annual grant awarding process.
The Spring Carnival is made possible through the work of the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation and TJ Schmidt & Company. For more information about the carnival, contact the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department at 616-530-3164.
Music festivals are returning in force this summer but if you want to get in on “the rising indie class” you might want to schedule a road trip to Chicago’s Union Park in mid-July.
Pitchfork Music Festival will return Friday, July 15, through Sunday, July 17, with a line-up of the familiar — including headliners The National, Mitski, and The Roots — but also the “what’s next” in indie and alt and about half a dozen other genres undefinable.
“This year’s lineup is a celebration of the rising indie class, and those who continue to pave the way for innovation,” Puja Patel, editor in chief of Pitchfork, said in supplied material. “Our goal was to highlight a diverse group of artists who are taking their musical genres to new heights.”
Day 1
The Festival kicks off on Friday with The National, who played Pitchfork Music Festival’s first year in 2006,, as well as Spiritualized, Parquet Courts, Tierra Whack, Amber Mark, Dawn Richard, Tkay Maidza, Indigo De Souza, SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE, SPELLLING, Camp Cope, Wiki, Ethel Cain, and CupcakKe.
The National will be the “name” on that day/night/the weekend — the show marks a return to touring for the band in fact: “The last couple years have given us ample time for reflection and rejuvenation. Summer 2022 is a time for reunion. We look forward to gathering with friends, old and new. United in music and light, suspended in time,” the band states on their website.
But maybe the best of the early Friday acts will be the outstanding Parquet Courts — their late 2021 release Sympathy for Life was outstanding. And for the “I saw her when …” crowd, CupcakKe should be tasty.
Day 2
On Saturday, headliner Mitski will be joined by Japanese Breakfast, Lucy Dacus, Low, Magdalena Bay, Dry Cleaning, Karate, Iceage, yeule, Arooj Aftab, The Armed, Chubby & the Gang, Hyd, and Jeff Parker & the New Breed.
You can’t turn on a radio (over-the-air or celestial) these days without catching Mitski’s catchy 1980s-retro bad-girl hit “The Only Heartbreaker” off her 2022 release Laurel Hell. But Japanese Breakfast is sure to be tasty too.
Day 3
The festival closes Sunday with The Roots, Toro y Moi, Earl Sweatshirt, Noname, BADBADNOTGOOD, Cate Le Bon, Tirzah, Xenia Rubinos, Erika de Casier, Injury Reserve, KAINA, L’Rain, Sofia Kourtesis, and Pink Siifu.
Hey, I have grey hair … You had me at Roots …
Details, details …
Pitchfork Music Festival tickets are available, with three-day passes, single-day passes — and “The Pitchfork PLUS” For tickets and more information visit here.
The Pitchfork Music Festival showcases the best up-and-coming music from around the world, as well as “special performances from touring stalwarts and legends alike,” according to festival promotional material. It also features diverse vendors, including specialty record and craft fairs, and it works to support local businesses while promoting the Chicago arts and food communities as a whole.
The Pitchfork Music Festival will adhere to the city of Chicago’s current-at-the-time COVID-19 protocol, according to supplied material, and will remain in close contact with city and state officials as regulations evolve. Festival attendees will be updated on COVID-19 protocol via email, and can find the latest safety guidelines on Pitchfork Music Festival’s FAQ page, and by following @PitchforkFest on Instagram and Twitter.
Pitchfork is one of the most read voices in music, and is often considered the preeminent resource for fans looking to discover and experience new music through reviews and features of the people, trends, and events shaping the music industry. Pitchfork hosts annual Music Festivals in Chicago and Paris. For more go to Pitchfork.com and follow @pitchfork.
Disability Advocates of Kent County, set to open a new headquarters in the new Special Olympics of Michigan campus in Byron Township and already one of the region’s leaders in advocacy for persons with disabilities, is set to become even more of a force for good in the region.
Disability Advocates has received a $975,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that will enable the organization to make “safety and functional home modifications and limited repairs to meet the needs of low-income senior homeowners that allow them to age in place,” according to an announcement from the non-profit.
The three-year grant will help 150 seniors in Allegan, Ionia, Mecosta, Montcalm, and Osceola counties — and there is anecdotal evidence that keeping seniors in their home environments longer is better for the seniors mental and physical health.
David Bulkowski, executive director of Disability Advocates of Kent County. (Supplied)
“While we do not have direct evidence for this, it would be safe to suggest that it is so as low-income folks have fewer financial resources to address the barriers themselves and would be more stressed by simple barriers in their homes and could lead to feelings of loneliness and despair,” David Bulkowski, executive director of Disability Advocates, said to WKTV.
Disability Advocates was the only organization in Michigan out of 32 nonprofit organizations, state and local governments, and public housing authorities nationwide to receive an award from HUD’s $30 million “Older Adults Home Modification Program”, according to the announcement.
The national goal is to deliver home modification services to more than 5,000 qualified beneficiaries in primarily rural areas.
The move to expand its services into more rural areas of West Michigan is part of a natural growth for the group.
“Our work began in Kent County and almost only in the Metro Six cities as we were pretty small back then,” Bulkowski said. “From there we spread out throughout the county and especially with Senior Millage funding in Kent County.
“As for other counties, we would ‘sneak out’ into Ionia and Montcalm and Mecosta and Osceola to a lesser degree through the years as much as our funding allowed. This new grant has enough capacity that we can assertively market the services availability in those four counties and Allegan.”
And while Disability Advocates offers a wide range of advocacy and services, facilitating often simple but often very necessary home improvements and repairs has always been one of its goals.
Grant-funded services and qualifications
Examples of the home modifications which are available through Disability Advocates include installation of grab bars, railings, and lever-handled doorknobs and faucets, as well as the installation of adaptive equipment, such as non-slip strips for tub/shower or stairs, according to the announcement. These enhancements will enable older adults to remain in their homes — to “age in place” — rather than move to nursing homes or other assisted care facilities.
Working with persons with disabilities, for Disability Advocates of Kent County, is often just listening to client’s issues such as wheelchair access, and the working on solutions. (Supplied)
The HUD grant was awarded in August 2021. For the past several months Disability Advocates has been finalizing its project plan and is now sharing the information in the rural counties to find senior homeowners that could benefit from these services.
To qualify, recipients need to be age 62 or older, have proof of ownership for the dwelling they live in, and have income that does not exceed 80 percent of the median income for their area. For more detailed information visit Disability Advocates of Kent County at dakc.us.
“This is an exciting endeavor for our organization because, as our name implies, we focus on Kent County, but the same needs apply to our friends in neighboring counties, so we are eager to expand our reach with this programming,” Bulkowski said in supplied material. “We are very grateful to our state representatives who guided as through the application process.”
One of the governmental advocates for the Disability Advocates’ grant was Kent County’s U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer.
“I am pleased that HUD recognized the good work Disability Associates of Kent County does for our community, and I know their organization will use this award to improve the lives of seniors right here in West Michigan,” Rep. Meijer said in supplied material.
New facility but same goals
Providing home assessments and independent living solutions have long been a “cornerstone” of the 41-year-old organization and will continue to be a major portion of the services it intends to offer at is soon-to-open new headquarters.
In September 2021, Disability Advocates announced the Building Opportunities, Creating Independence campaign, a $2.5 million fundraising effort to move their headquarters to the Special Olympics campus. To date, the campaign has reached 90 percent of its goal and plans to move into its new space in late April 2022.
“We are on track to open for operations at SOMI (Special Olympics of Michigan) on May 2 … our community open house and ribbon cutting is May 12 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.,” Bulkowski said.
The opening of the new headquarters will also be the opening of a new Home Accessibility Center program.
The organization is using “a sizable portion of the campaign funding” to help cover construction of its Home Accessibility Center program, which will be the area’s first space where people with disabilities can explore ways to renovate and retrofit their homes so they can be more independent.
Peggy Helsel, development director for Disability Advocates of Kent County. (Supplied)
It will serve as a “test space” and showroom where persons with disabilities, their families, healthcare, and design professionals and building contractors to “explore options for a safer home, including models and adaptive equipment,” according to supplied material.
“The Home Accessibility Center is a response to a demonstrated need,” Peggy Helsel, development director for Disability Advocates, said in supplied material. “Often people ask, ‘What does that mean?’ when we talk about universal design and the home, we are giving people a real-life model home to experience what a universally-accessible space can look like.”
Getting back to a large degree of summertime normalcy in West Michigan, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts will have a June-thorough-September series of 33 shows that will bring “an eclectic group of artists” to the amphitheater — maybe the region’s premier open-air venue and still at an intimate 1,900 seat capacity despite the massive renovations at the park.
The concert line-up will feature some familiar local faces and sounds —Elvis’s glasses and ZZ’s beards, Lyle’s country twang and Spearhead’s reggae rock, to name drop just a few — but also some fresh faces and, maybe, new sounds.
Andrew Bird and Sam Beam of Iron & Wine. (Supplied)
Amos Lee (he of “Worry No More”, the mantra-like lead single from his outstanding new Dreamland release) may be unfamiliar to many but not to those with an ear to where alt/pop music is headed next. And while Andrew Bird and his space fiddle are no strangers to Meijer Gardens, his concert with Iron & Wine will undoubtedly be as unique and memorable as was his 2019 visit before … well, you know.
And, oh ya, an acoustic evening with Trey Anastasio, the heart and soul and jamming master of Phish, will be nearest you’ll likely come to a tie-died Woodstock evening this summer. Breathe it in …
Tickets go on sale April 23 for members and May 7 to the general public (details to follow), and many concerts sell out quickly.
Decemberists. (Supplied)
And speaking of getting those sometimes hard-to-come-by tickets, in their concert season announcement, Meijer Gardens introduced its new Concerts for the Community initiative, sponsored by The Steve & Amy Van Andel Foundation in partnership with the Kent District Library. The program will provide concert tickets, food and transportation to “guests that may not otherwise have the opportunity” to attend a summer concert.
Concerts for the Community is designed exclusively for those “facing economic hardship and is meant to diversify community exposure to world-class live music,” according to the announcement.
“Concerts at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park are a favorite summer activity for our family,” said Amy Van Andel. “We are … excited to help others make memories and experience the joy an evening of outdoor live music can bring.”
2022 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens lineup
Drumroll please …
Amos Lee (Supplied)
The concert series kicks off in June with Marc Cohn + Blind Boys of Alabama on June 12, followed by the aforementioned Amos Lee with Neal Francis on June 17, a doubleheader sure to have you up and dancing with Fitz & The Tantrums + St. Paul & The Broken Bones on June 19, An Acoustic Evening with Trey Anastasio on June 20, and Old Crow Medicine Show on June 23.
Then — get ready for this —Trombone Shorty’s Voodoo Threauxdown featuring Tank and The Bangas, Big Freedia, Cyril Neville: The Uptown Ruler, George Porter Jr. and Dumpstaphunk performing the music of The Meters and The Soul Rebels, all on June 24. Oh what title; oh what a night!
Closing out June will be The Temptations with Kimmie Horne on June 26, and Bluegrass Happening featuring Bela Fleck & My Bluegrass Heart, Sam Bush & The Jerry Douglas Band on June 27.
ZZ Top. (Supplied)
The summer concert season really gets hot in July with Sheryl Crow with Allison Russell on July 3, Corinne Bailey Rae with War & Treaty on July 6, ZZ Top on July 7, O.A.R. on July 8, and the first of several concerts featuring the Grand Rapids Symphony, Five for Fighting with the symphony on July 13.
Annual visits by two always welcome summer music makers are next: Michael Franti & Spearhead with The New Respects on July 14, and Lyle Lovett and his Large Band on July 15, followed by Norah Jones on July 17, Rick Springfield with the Grand Rapids Symphony on July 20, Buddy Guy + John Hiatt on July 21, America on July 27, and Arturo Sandoval with the Grand Rapids Symphony on July 28.
Elvis Costello. (Supplied)
Elvis will be in the building to start August as Mr. Costello & The Imposters with Nicole Atkins will visit on Aug. 4, followed by Andrew Bird + Iron & Wine with Meshell Ndegeocello on Aug.5, The Dead South with Tejon Street Corner Thieves on Aug. 10, Lake Street Dive with Madison Cunningham on Aug. 12, with the The Beach Boys making it a beach party night on Aug. 15.
August closes out with The Decemberists — one of my favorite bands — Aug. 17, Boz Scaggs with the Robert Cray Band on Aug. 22, and Umphrey’s McGee on Aug. 24.
The concert season will close strong in the fall with Emmylou Harris + Mary Chapin Carpenter on Sept. 1, Australian Pink Floyd — which is about the closest you can get to the Dark Side of the Moon these days — on Sept. 12, Goo Goo Dolls with Blue October, on Sept. 15, She & Him on Sept. 16, and (what a way to close the venue for the season) Foreigner: The Greatest Hits Tour on Sept. 18.
Trey Anastasio, in concert at Carnegie Hall in 2021. (Supplied/Rene Huemer)
The details, please
Gate and show start times vary. All information is subject to change. All shows will take place rain or shine, and weather delays are possible. Check MeijerGardens.org/concerts for more details.
There are a lot of details to getting tickets, so much so that Meijer Gardens has created an Insider’s Guide to Buying Tickets, available at MeijerGardens.org/concerts.
The bottom line is that Meijer Gardens members have a members-only presale beginning 9 a.m., April 23, through midnight, May 6. Sales to the public begin at 9 a.m., May 7. Ordering is online at Etix.com (preferred method) or by phone at 800-514-etix (3849), both with per-order handling fee.
Hint: Get a membership, for early tickets and free entry to the grounds any time. To join or renew a Meijer Gardens membership before April 23, visit MeijerGardens.org/membership or call the Membership Department at 616-977-7689.
Renovations to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Volunteer Tribute Garden will soon see plantings come out of their winter stillness, and it will soon have an updated “The Tribute”, by Oliviero Rainaldi, on display. (WKTV.K.D. Norris)
By WKTV Staff
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park appreciates its volunteers enough to give them, and the general public, a Volunteer Tribute Garden with its own work of art — “The Tribute”, by famed Italian artist Oliviero Rainaldi and commissioned for the site.
So it is fitting that as the Gardens readies the competition of renovation, and pending rededication of the tribute garden, still located just outside the hallway leading to the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, part of the renovation will be an expanded version of Rainaldi’s circular work.
Fifteen years after the dedication of the Volunteer Tribute Garden and Rainaldi’s original sculpture, both the space and the sculpture are getting a new look, according to an announcement from Meijer Gardens.
Renovations to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Volunteer Tribute Garden will include an updated “The Tribute”, by Italian artist Oliviero Rainaldi, on display. (Supplied)
The Tribute and the Volunteer Tribute Garden will be rededicated Wednesday, April 20, in a special ceremony at 4 p.m., proceeded on April 19 by “A Conversation with Oliviero Rainaldi” at 7 p.m., in the Huizenga Grand Room.
“In 2006, Rainaldi was first commissioned to create a work of art to honor the thousands of volunteers who give their time and talents to Meijer Gardens,” according to the announcement. “As the buildings, garden spaces and number of volunteers at Meijer Gardens grow, so too did this sculpture.”
The artwork was temporarily removed to accommodate the redesign of the Volunteer Tribute Garden.
(Meijer Gardens is always seeking new volunteers, who are “Wanted. Needed. Appreciated.” with various jobs and shifts. For more information contact Valerie Maciejewski at vmaciejewski@meijergardens.org or 616-974-5221.)
Garden, artwork expanded but remains unique
Designed by Progressive AE and the Meijer Gardens horticulture team, the tribute garden has been expanded and redesigned to be more accessible and improve views of the wetland, sculpture and horticulture.
The tribute garden area update includes a new boardwalk area and outdoor classroom that extends on top of a wetland, “providing a great opportunity to teach guests about the importance of the natural environment, water and the ecosystem.”
And, according to the announcement, newly designed aluminum panels are being inserted into the interior of “The Tribute”.
“The exterior bronze panels poetically tell the stories of a diverse group of Meijer Gardens guest experiences,” according to the announcement. “The two interior panels incorporate stories of place and the emotion of love.”
Rainaldi describes the central curve as “the heart of the sculpture, which should be dedicated exclusively to Fred and Lena Meijer, creating an idealized place where horticulture and sculpture dialog together.”
Rainaldi, well known for his artwork focused on the human figure in a post-war and contemporary setting, “takes a linear approach that emphasizes humanity’s most ideal and essential qualities,” according to the announcement.
The structure brings viewers into a water scene, where they look up at the sky through reeds and will notice an aerial view of the Great Lakes, “as if looking down upon the Earth. Water has historically been symbolic of life, power, purity and strength.”
These elements together represent and pay tribute to Fred and Lena Meijer, to the natural beauty of West Michigan, and to the thousands of dedicated volunteers who have donated their time and talents, according to the announcement.
While “A Conversation with Oliviero Rainaldi” — a conversation with Meijer Gardens President & CEO David Hooker and Amber Oudsema, Curator of Arts Education — is included with admission, registration is required at: MeijerGardens.org/calendar.
Mark and Roger are two roommates, each dealing with life in their own way: Roger numb after dealing with a tragedy while Mark explores it through the tense of a camera.
This is just one story in Jonathan Larson’s Pulitizer Award-winning musical, “RENT,” which will run May 5-7, 11-15, and 18-21 at the Aquinas College’s Performing Arts Center, located 1703 Robinson St. SE. Set in the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the East Village of New York City, “RENT” follows the lives of the Mark, Roger and their friends as they explore love, celebrate happiness and struggle to survive. The musical, which won a Tony Award for Best Musical, is full of memorial songs including “Seasons of Love.”
“‘RENT’ is a protest piece,” said co-director/vocal director Marcus Jordan. “The 1996 cult classic musical encouraged a generation of young people to speak out about the injustices that plagued our country. Police brutality, displacement of the un-homed, and the stigmatization of HIV/AIDS are among the many issues tat are authentically raised in this story.
“But along side the outcry of injustices highlighted in “RENT” are the illustrated light and freedom of the Queer Experience. This piece invites folks to just be folks, to shine one’s light unapologetically. And it is this infusion of holistic living and unyielding advocacy that continues to cement ‘RENT’ as a vital piece in the musical theatre repertoire. Act up AND fights AIDS!”
Show times are at 7 p.m. with a matinee showing on May 15 at 3 p.m. Tickets and details are available at circletheatre.org.
For more information on Circle Theatre’s 2022 season, call the box office at 616-456-6656 or visit circletheatre.org.
The United States Navy Concert Band is scheduled to perform April 27 at Grand Rapids Christian School, and all performances are free and open to the public. (Supplied)
The United States Navy Concert Band is scheduled to perform April 27 at Grand Rapids Christian School, and all performances are free and open to the public. (Supplied)
The United States Navy Concert Band is scheduled to perform April 27 at Grand Rapids Christian School, and all performances are free and open to the public. (Supplied)
The United States Navy Concert Band is scheduled to perform April 27 at Grand Rapids Christian School, and all performances are free and open to the public. (Supplied)
By WKTV Staff
Anchors Aweigh, my boys, Anchors Aweigh.
Farewell to foreign shores, We sail at break of day.
America’s Navy is famous for many stories, in peace and in war, with the medals and ribbons over their hearts, and stripes on their arms, telling a Navy man/woman’s story all by themselves.
And inspirational music, patriotic music, just plain fun music is one of the ways to tell those stories.
Part of that storytelling is the United States Navy Band, coming to Grand Rapids later this month as one of 13 cities spanning six states to host a performance during the group’s 2022 tour.
“For many years, Navy bands have been where it matters, when it matters, just like the rest of our Navy,” Capt. Kenneth Collins, U.S. Navy Band commanding officer, said in supplied material. “Today, we have Sailors performing around the world, improving relations with our allies abroad as well as telling the Navy story here at home.”
The United States Navy Concert Band will be telling its stories April 27, at 7:30 p.m., at Grand Rapids Christian School’s Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Arts and Worship. This concert, like all Navy Band performances, is free and open to the public.
The U.S. Navy Concert Band is the premier wind ensemble of the U.S. Navy. As the original ensemble of the Navy Band, the Concert Band has been performing public concerts and participating in high-profile events for more than 95 years, according to promotional material. The band performs a wide array of marches, patriotic selections, orchestral transcriptions and modern wind ensemble repertoire.
One of the U.S. Navy Band’s primary responsibilities involves touring the country.
All of the band’s primary performing units embark each year on concert tours throughout specified regions of the country, allowing the band to reach out to audiences in areas of the country that do not have opportunities to see the Navy’s premier musical ensembles on a regular basis. The concerts are family-friendly events, meant to be entertaining to veterans, families, individuals and those interested in joining the Navy.
The U.S. Navy Band, based at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., is the “flagship” musical organization of the Navy and one of 11 Navy bands located around the world.
The Navy Band has been touring the country since 1925. Sailors in the Navy Band are full-time professional musicians, and almost all of the Sailors in the Navy Band have undergraduate degrees in music, and most have graduate degrees.
It will be (jazz) party time at St. Cecilia Music Center his week with Delfeayo Marsalis (center) and his Jazz Orchestra in concert. (Supplied/Zac Smith)
By Philip Janowski, WKTV Contributing Writer
St. Cecilia Music Center will be hosting a Jazz Party this week, and what a band to be partying to — acclaimed trombonist, composer and producer Delfeayo Marsalis and his Uptown Jazz Orchestra — as the final concert of the venue’s 2021-22 jazz series on Thursday, April 14.
Delfeayo Marsalis will be leading his Uptown Jazz Orchestra. (Supplied)
Marsalis’ style “promotes the optimism and progressive musical thought coexisting in modern New Orleans jazz,” according to supplied promotional material.
“What the country and the world need now more than ever is some good New Orleans music to give everyone a little joy,” Marsalis said in a published interview with Voice of OC.
Tickets for the concert are still available and can be purchased online at scmc-online.org or by calling St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224.
Featuring as many as 18 accomplished musicians, the Uptown Jazz Orchestra “sets the global standard for celebrating jazz in its authentic musical form,” according to promotional material, “inspiring the next generation of jazz musicians, and promoting a culture of diversity, inclusion and accessibility in the arts.”
Oh, ya. And they love a good jazz party.
Marsalis and a family of jazz
Delfeayo Marsalis has dedicated his prolific career to music theater and education. As part of the Marsalis family of musicians, which included the patriarch of “America’s first family of jazz”, his late father, Ellis, the artist was destined to a life in music.
Delfeayo Marsalis, with his instrument of choice. (Supplied/Zac Smith)
Marsalis has toured internationally with jazz legends such as Ray Charles, Art Blakey, Max Roach, Elvin Jones and Slide Hampton. At the age of 17, Marsalis began his career as a producer and has to date produced over 120 recordings garnering a Grammy award and several nominations.
When it came to being the trombone player of the family, Delfeayo has often said it “kind of suited our personality,” as his dad was playing piano and two of his brothers (Wynton on trumpet and Branford on tenor sax) were soloists already.
Delfeayo Marsalis has a dual Bachelor’s degree in Music performance and Production from the Berklee College of Music, and a Masters in Jazz Performance from the University of Louisville, as well as a doctorate from the New England College.
Health and Safety Requirements
According to supplied material, St. Cecilia currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert. Home tests are not accepted. All patrons will be required to wear a mask while in the building for the duration of the concert.
If patrons have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.
The City of Kentwood is again partnering with Hanger Clinic to host the fourth Limb Loss Awareness 5K, all-ages and all-abilities event, on Saturday, April 30. (Supplied)
WKTV Staff
There will be plenty of inspirational people and inspirational stories running around the City of Kentwood later this month — including local woman and double leg amputee Beth Lowman — as the city will again host a special community event in recognition of Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month.
Kentwood is again partnering with Hanger Clinic, to host the fourth Limb Loss Awareness 5K on Saturday, April 30. The all-ages and all-abilities event will begin with packet pickup at 9 a.m. at Bowen Station Park, 4499 Bowen Blvd. SE, followed by the race at 10 a.m.
The event seeks to increase awareness of limb loss, build community and raise funds for Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs. These programs “empower people with various disabilities to participate in athletic activities in an adapted way to allow for a safe and fun experience,” according to the announcement.
Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department program coordinator Katelyn Bush and one of her Adaptive Recreation participants at 2021 The Vibe event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
“Our Limb Loss Awareness 5K is more than a typical race,” Katelyn Bush, Kentwood recreation program coordinator, said in supplied material. “In addition to health and wellness, this run is focused on inclusivity, awareness, relationships and making a difference in our local community. We are thrilled this educational event has continued to grow in popularity since it began in 2018.”
All profits from the event will go toward improving and expanding the city’s adaptive recreation programs to encourage health and wellness, socialization and excellent quality of life for all. The programs – offered in collaboration with community partners – enable participants to enjoy the benefits that come with any athletic or recreational activity, such as a sense of camaraderie, improved confidence and new skills. To learn more visit kentwood.us/adaptive.
The accessible race route includes sections of the East-West and Paul Henry-Thornapple trails as well as a boardwalk — a “scenic spring route filled with woodlands, wetlands and wildlife.”
Online registration is available at RunSignUp.com. Registration is $35 through April 29. Race day registration is $45. Participants will receive a long sleeve t-shirt and swag bag as part of their registration. Packet pickup will also be available in advance of the event at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, during business hours beginning at noon Wednesday, April 27.
The kid-friendly event will also include a 1-mile fun run for children ages 12 and younger at 11 a.m. along the same route. The kids race costs $10 per child and includes a T-shirt and finisher ribbon. There is also a playground at the park for children to enjoy.
Beth’s story of resilience, resolve
Beth Lowman, a 35-year-old local woman who has experienced bilateral limb loss, will share her story at the Limb Loss Awareness 5K.
Six years ago, Lowman was an active, athletic mom whose life was turned upside down when she developed dystonia, a disorder that causes muscles to involuntarily contract, in her left foot and ankle, according to supplied material.
Beth Lowman, a 35-year-old local woman who has experienced bilateral limb loss, will share her story at the Limb Loss Awareness 5K. (Supplied)
She was unable to walk and, after several unsuccessful treatments, chose amputation. In February 2020, her left leg was amputated below the knee and she was able to walk for the first time in four years using a uniquely custom-designed bent-knee prosthesis fit by her prosthetic team at Hanger Clinic in Byron Center.
But after a fall in January 2021, Lowman developed dystonia in her right foot and ankle, and underwent the amputation of her right leg below the knee in July 2021. Despite the new challenge, she continued to push forward, learning to walk again on two prosthetic feet this time.
And on those two prosthetic feet, combined with personal goal and a support system around her, she plans to walk across the finish line at the Kentwood 5K.
Beth Lowman, with her family. (Supplied)
“I continuously remind myself that although my life turned out differently than I planned, my life as an amputee is still vibrant and active,” Lowman said in supplied material. “It is important to celebrate the small and large victories, because those are what makes life flourishing.
“I will forever see my life as a victory if I keep setting goals for myself and celebrating each step forward. The world wasn’t made for amputees, but it doesn’t mean we can’t flourish, cheer each other on and set the world ablaze with our successes!”
More than just a 5K run
Phil Tower, a West Michigan radio personality, amputee and advocate for people with disabilities, will serve as the DJ at the Limb Loss Awareness 5K.
Race organizers are also seeking volunteers for the event. Those interested may sign up at RunSignUp.com. Four first-place awards will be given to the first adult men and women amputees and nonamputees who cross the finish line. More information is available at kentwood.us/LimbLoss5K.
The City of Kentwood is again partnering with Hanger Clinic to host the fourth Limb Loss Awareness 5K, all-ages and all-abilities event, on Saturday, April 30. (Supplied)
This year’s event will also include educational components and a peer support table. These resources will enable participants and attendees to learn more about amputation, prosthetics and orthotics. They also will connect individuals who have experienced limb loss or limb difference with one another, enabling them to provide support and build relationships.
The event will also feature several informational booths from various sponsors, including ACV Centers, Airway Mobility and Rehab, Buist Electric, Creative Mobility Group, Hunt 2 Heal, ITC Incorporated, Life Beyond Barriers Rehabilitation group, Mercury Labs, Inc., Muskegon Surgical Associates, New Wave Prosthetics, Proteor USA, Spectrum Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Center and Summit Labs LLC.
“We want people who are experiencing limb loss or limb difference to know they are not alone,” Nikki Stoner, Hanger Clinic care coordinator, said in supplied material. “There is a community here to welcome them and support them through their journey. This event gives us an opportunity to raise awareness and connect those experiencing limb loss and limb difference with resources and others in the community.”
Hanger Clinic, a local prosthetic and orthotic patient care provider, will also feature a memorial activity for Winter, the dolphin with a prosthetic tail who made her movie debut in “Dolphin Tale” on Sept. 23, 2011. Winter lost her tail after it became entangled in a crab trap in 2005.
In 2006, Kevin Carroll, an expert prosthetist and vice president of prosthetics at Hanger Clinic, fit Winter with a prosthetic tail that allowed her to swim again.
Winter died in November 2021 following an intestinal abnormality. This year’s event will feature a card-making station to celebrate the dolphin’s life. The cards will be sent to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Florida where an ongoing memorial is offered to honor her legacy.
Butterflies are back in the Top 5, and so is baseball, classical music and those who like to dress up.
Enjoy the spring-like weather on the horizon. It’s time for my weekly list of things to do, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Here it is!
Chamber Orchestra of Grand Rapids performs at The Stray. (pxhere.com)
5. Classical Music at The Stray
Can’t wait for the next WKTV Voices Storyteller’s event at The Stray (7 p.m. April 15)? Well, it’s not quite a story, but another great opportunity to check out the local coffeehouse/event space. Come see members of the Chamber Orchestra of Grand Rapids perform 17th and 18th century works in smaller groups. The show is at 7 p.m. Saturday (April 9). Admission is free, but a $10 donation is suggested. More info on the event Facebook page.
Butterflies and flowers will be on display at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition. (Supplied/Meijer Gardens)
4. Morning With The Butterflies Family Party
Didn’t get a chance to do something fun for Spring Break? The Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition at Meijer Gardens remains open through April 30, with extended hours until 9 p.m. through Friday (April 8). Looking for a party with snacks and activities? One is planned for members on Sunday (April 10). This is a good time to consider a membership for special perks like this. (We love ours in the Gonzalez household).
An array of gems and minerals will be on display at this year’s Gem & Mineral Show at Rogers Plaza. (WKTV)
3. 45th Annual Gem & Mineral Show
Another fun activity for the family is checking out the popular Gem & Mineral Show this weekend at Rogers Plaza. It features treasures for everyone from beginners to seasoned collectors where you will find minerals, fossils, crystals, gems, jewelry, beads, stone carvings, equipment, books, and more. Nearly 30 vendors, club dealers and artisans will be on hand. Hours are 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday and Friday (April 7-8), and from 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday (April 9). More info on the event Facebook page. Admission is free.
The Grand Rapids Valley Railroad Train Shows offer fun for kids of any age.
2. Greater Grand Rapids Train Show
It’s back for another show from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday (April 9) at the Home School Building in Wyoming. The show features more than 200 vendor tables, offering what organizers said is “everything imaginable for even the most discerning model railroader.” In addition, they will have model railroad layouts in different scales and sizes with accurately detailed engines and cars running down their tracks. There’s even a Lego play area for kids. Cost is $5 for adults and free for those 12 and younger. It is presented by the Grand River Valley Railroad Club. More info at grvrrc.org.
1. Grand Rapids Comic-Con
Another sure sign of spring is Comic-Con! Who wants to wear a coat over a Power Rangers costume? This weekend you can experience seminars, panels, vendors, comic books and more. The event runs Friday-Sunday (April 8-10) at the DeltaPlex Arena. Hours are noon-7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $20 per day. Parking is $10 cash only. For more details on cosplay guidelines and more info, go to grcomiccon.com.
The West Michigan Whitecaps’ home opener is April 12. (WM Whitecaps)
Baseball
As for baseball, the Detroit Tigers are back in action for a new season beginning April 8 at Comerica Park against the White Sox. And our West Michigan Whitecaps open the season on April 8 in Midland, but return to LMCU Ballpark for the home opener on Tuesday, April 12. More info at whitecapsbaseball.com.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Veteran Jurgen Nitzsche produced this work as part of veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
Zaneta Adams, Director of the MVAA, Judge Rosemarie Aqualina, and two attendees of Kent County Veterans Services’ 2021 Banquet for Female Veterans. (Supplied)
An attendee making art at one of Kent County Veterans Services’ women veterans events. (Supplied)
Colorful art and colorful veteran at one of Kent County Veterans Services’ women veterans events. (Supplied)
Local female veterans at a “female only” retreat early this year. (KC Veterans Services)
By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer
Fair treatment for women serving on American military active duty, and as veterans, has been battle fought for decades — often with unsatisfactory results.
And while many local female veterans continue to fight against unfair treatment — including local veteran and advocate Theresa Robinson — several Kent County organizations and individuals strive to help female veterans and their families receive the acknowledgement and support they deserve.
Devoted specifically to supporting “all” veterans, Kent County Veterans Services (KCVS) has served the veterans of Kent County since 2008, connecting them with resources in the community as well as providing them with assistance in obtaining benefits they are entitled to from all levels of government.
And, in recent years, KCVS has focused heavily on female veterans and their needs.
“Our continued emphasis is going to be on making female veterans feel comfortable and welcome and helping them to recognize that they may be eligible for benefits, which is the primary part of what we do,” Martha Burkett, manager of KCVS, said to WKTV. “A lot of them don’t even know they have them.”
Burkett continued by saying that applying to the federal government for their benefits is often harder than the government claims. “It’s not easy to do the application process or follow it through. If they can deny you, they will deny you.”
Requests can be kicked back if forms are not filled out properly, for not providing adequate documentation, or not using the right words.
“That’s why the services we offer through our office are so important,” Burkett said. “The Veterans Services officers know all of that. They are trained and certified to do that work. We can do that for veterans on their behalf and make the process a lot smoother and easier for them.”
KCVS has been striving to expand their services to female veterans, not only assisting with benefits but providing help and engagement opportunities for veterans in different ways.
A semi-formal banquet in July celebrates female veterans annually, while a year-round wellness program offers yoga classes, art therapy, and various other opportunities for women.
Equine assisted therapy retreats with programing specifically for female veterans has also been made available since 2019. KCVS has also used grant money to facilitate a recreation program that includes kayaking, hiking, and other activities specifically for women.
For some, working to support veterans — all veterans — is personal.
Theresa Robinson at Kent County airport with other veterans welcoming home active duty military members. (Supplied)
Theresa Robinson, at Kent County Airport, arriving home from boot camp. (Supplied)
A veteran married to a veteran, Theresa and George Robinson. (Supplied)
Theresa Robinson, left, is active in many veterans organizations and efforts. (Supplied)
Theresa Robinson — veteran, veterans advocate, local businesswoman. (Supplied)
Individual issues but often common cause
Theresa Robinson, veteran, veteran advocate, and current realtor for 616 Realty, served her country in the U.S. Navy as a personnel specialist from 1974 through 1976, and has remained active in the efforts to bring fair treatment and recognition to women serving on active duty and to female veterans.
Robinson told WKTV she personally experienced the hardship of obtaining benefits, having a claim rejected and being told by other veterans that for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), “This is normal procedure … You just have to keep going back.”
“It’s sad because … any veteran deserves that care and earned that care,” Robinson said. “It should not be so hard.”
KCVS is also only one of many resources available to female veterans, Robinson pointed out, citing groups such as the American Legion, the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard, and the United Veterans Council of Kent County as great avenues for helping veterans and their families.
Robinson has served in all three organizations as a way to continue her service to other veterans and the country she loves.
“As a Vietnam Era veteran, I saw the treatment of veteran and active duty during that time in history and it motivated me to want to make a difference in how veterans are perceived to the public,” Robinson said. “Female veterans need to know if they go to the VA for health reasons, be it mental or physical heath, they can count on the VA being equipped to handle females and their needs.
“And female veterans need to know they are not alone … others that have served have experienced many of the same things they did and are there (to support) each other.”
Burkett also believes female veterans need to know there is support out there for them.
“Women have always been less likely to come forward,” Burkett said.
From fear of their careers being derailed if they speak up, to diving back into their civilian roles of mother and wife, to not realizing their problems could be combat-related, women have often kept silent.
“No matter the arena, women are less likely to present for treatment than men,” Burkett said.
Historic issues still present
Over the years, seeing so little change for women who serve is frustrating for Robinson.
“I should not be hearing from anyone 48 years after I served that behaviors unbecoming a military active member are still happening today,” Robinson said. “We and the military are better than this.”
To see that change happen, however, Robinson believes the community must get involved.
“It’s not only veterans that have to ask the VA and our government to be accountable to veterans. The general public needs to do that too,” she said. “The general public needs to tell their government officials that we belong — as human beings, as citizens of the United States of America.”
Robinson also thinks that despite changes, the VA system still needs improvement — “There has got to be a better system for reviewing claims when they come in.”
Most of all, it is important to Robinson that female veterans are “seen, recognized, and appreciated.” And that male and female veterans will be recognized as one group.
“I long for the day when I can speak on and about veterans,” Robinson said, “and not have to differentiate when speaking, female or male veteran.”
Some other groups support female veterans
Robinson speaks highly of the women veteran’s outreach campaign, She Is a Veteran.
“She Is a Veteran is all about empowering female veterans,” Robinson said. “We want female veterans to know they can make a difference in government, in real estate, in teaching, in their everyday lives.”
Women can also learn about advocacy for themselves and their community by attending the Michigan Women Veterans Conference in Lansing, scheduled for June 10-11, sponsored by the Michigan Women Veterans Coalition. Michigan Women Veterans Conference questions can be directed to Erika Hoover, Women Veterans and Special Populations Coordinator, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, 517-230-6090, HooverE2@michigan.gov.
Other resources and events for female veterans include:
Scene from the 2019 “Eat. Drink. Be Merry!” annual fundraising event hosted by Martha’s Vineyard to benefit St. Cecilia Music Center. (Supplied)
Scene from the 2019 “Eat. Drink. Be Merry!” annual fundraising event hosted by Martha’s Vineyard to benefit St. Cecilia Music Center. (Supplied)
Scene from the 2019 “Eat. Drink. Be Merry!” annual fundraising event hosted by Martha’s Vineyard to benefit St. Cecilia Music Center. (Supplied)
Scene from the 2019 “Eat. Drink. Be Merry!” annual fundraising event hosted by Martha’s Vineyard to benefit St. Cecilia Music Center. (Supplied)
By WKTV Staff
After a two-year hiatus due to pandemic restrictions, “Eat. Drink. Be Merry!”, an annual fundraising event hosted by Martha’s Vineyard to benefit St. Cecilia Music Center, will return Saturday, April 16, from 6 to 9 p.m.
St. Cecilia Music Center. (WKTV)
In past years, the fundraiser has brought more than 300 people to participate in wine-tasting, food sampling and a silent auction on three floors of the historic St. Cecilia Music Center (SCMC) building, according to an announcement from St. Cecilia.
“As an important fundraiser for SCMC, we’re grateful to Martha’s Vineyard for standing by us during these difficult times, and now bringing back this wonderful event to help fund our music and educational programs,” Cathy Holbrook, executive and artistic director, said in supplied material. “As a (non-profit) 501(C) 3 organization we depend on generous funding and donations.”
Eat. Drink. Be Merry! will include over 100 varietals of wines from around the world sold at Martha’s Vineyard. During the event, wine experts and vendors will present the wines and provide information. “Hearty hors d’oeuvres” will be served by Catering by Martha’s and Nantucket Baking Company.
Musical entertainment and a silent auction will also be a part of the festivities. The silent auction will focus on food and wine items donated by local restaurants and other businesses.
Eat. Drink. Be Merry! will be held at St. Cecilia, 24 Ransom NE, downtown Grand Rapids/ Tickets are $50 per person. Advance tickets can be purchased online at scmc-online.org, or by calling St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224.
Spring Break doesn’t seem like it if you’re stuck in Grand Rapids.
If you’re like me, you’ll make the best of it, despite a few snowflakes.
In my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal, I include activities for kids, sports fans, craft beer aficionados and theater lovers. Who needs palm trees, the beach and fancy drinks by the pool?
Have a great weekend, friends.
Gonzo’s Top 5
Grand Rapids Gold wraps up its season this weekend. (Supplied)
5. Grand Rapids Sports
The Grand Rapids Griffins and the Grand Rapids Gold both have home games this weekend. The hockey team has games Friday and Saturday (April 1-2) at Van Andel Arena. Special activities include Jeff Hoggan jersey retirement, Margaritaville Night, and beach hat giveaway on Saturday. Also, the team has a home game on April 6. More info at vanandelarena.com. Also, pro basketball team the Grand Rapids Gold wraps up its season withgames Friday and Saturday (April 1-2) at the DetlaPlex Arena. On Friday, fans get $2 beer, $2 hot dogs and $5 Founders Solid Gold. And it’s Real Superheroes on Saturday. One lucky fan at the game will receive a limited edition superhero jersey and an official Wilson game ball. The Children’s Foundation also presents a post-game autograph session with coaches and team members. Team posters to the first 500 fans as well. Ticket info at https://grandrapids.gleague.nba.com/
4. Grand Armory Tap Takeover at Horrocks
Whether it’s a tap takeover or not, it’s always fun to hang out at Horrocks Farm Market to do some shopping, as well as dine on soup, salad, pizza and other great food. In fact, it’s a great destination any day of the week. If you stop by Friday (April 1), craft beer fans can check out Grand Armory from 4-7 p.m. at Horrocks Market Tavern in Kentwood. Some of the beers on tap include Nerd (New England IPA), Lightly Dusted (Crop Duster Light), Blueberry Watermelon (Fruited Blonde), Grapefruit Grindage (Grapefruit IPA) and their famous Fluffer Nutter (Peanut Butter Marshmallow Stout). It’s super tasty and fun. Learn more on the Facebook Event Page.
3.Craig’s Cruisers Spring Break Wristbands
It’s back! The popular unlimited action at Craig’s Cruisers is from April 1-10 with morning (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) or afternoon (4-8 p.m.) sessions at Craig’s Cruisers Family Fun Center in Wyoming. The unlimited attractions include: Indoor & Outdoor Go-Karts, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, Mini-Golf, Bumper Boats, Frog Hopper, Cruiser Coaster and Ninja Course. (Weather permitting on outdoor attractions.) Fans can also experience the Trampoline Park, as well as a pizza buffet. Tickets are $35 per person, plus tax. Waivers are also required. You can order tickets online as well as get more details craigscruisers.com/specials_promotions/spring-break-wristbands/.
“Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs” at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Supplied)
2. Kids activities at museums and zoo
Several of our local cultural institutions offer great activities for families.
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Spring Break Bonanza includesspecial performances and presentations, April 1-10. Details at www.grcm.org/events.
The Washed Ashore Exhibit opens April 1 at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids. The traveling exhibit features 16 large and colorful sculptures throughout the Zoo, all beautifully designed, giant sea life sculptures made entirely of marine debris collected from beaches. More details at jbzoo.org/washedashore.
Spring Break at the Public Museum, April 1-10; includes its newest exhibition, Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs. These are life-size models, casts of rare fossils while interactives bring these ancient animals to life. Also, relax and recline in the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium with shows about the incredible forces of our universe. It’s fun for the whole family. Learn more at www.grpm.org, including how Kent County residents receive reduced admission, including free general admission for Kent County children 17 and under.
“Ain’t Too Proud: The Story of the Temptations” is at the DeVos Performance Hall. (Photo by Mike Murphy)
Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations
I wasn’t too sure what to expect from the national Broadway tour of “Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations,” which has performances through Sunday at DeVos Performance Hall. I knew the songs would be great – because who doesn’t love those classic songs like “My Girl,” “I Can’t Next to You,” “Just My Imagination” and “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone”? But the storyline has to pull it all together, and that’s exactly what it did. In fact, I wouldn’t mind seeing it again. Asked after the show for my review, I said “Ain’t Too Proud” is “a riveting and compelling behind the scenes story about one of music’s most successful acts, told through the classic songs we know and love. It’s a must-show that features stellar voices and those signature dance moves.” I think that says it all.
In my theater podcast “By All Means, Lead the Way,” I interviewed James T. Lane, who plays Paul Williams, one of the original members of the Temptations. The Philadelphia native tells his own story of how he fell in love with dance and the theater. And why he loves this show so much.
You will, too, he added.
“For 2 ½ hours you will be entertained by some of the most extraordinary artists I have ever had the pleasure to work with in all of my 20-plus years of experience,” Lane said in the interview.
“So come, be dazzled, be delighted; feel all of the emotions of the classic 5, and all of the Temptations. Come and see ‘Ain’t too Proud – Life of the Temptations.’ You will not want to miss this.”
If you want to hear the interview in its entirety, check out my podcast here:
https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49281119
Presented by Broadway Grand Rapids, performances of “Ain’t Too Proud” continue through Sunday (April 3). Ticket information at broadwaygrandrapids.com.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe Spring Break.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Graphic from City of Kentwood promotional material.
By WKTV Staff
The City of Kentwood and Georgetown Seniors are inviting community members to have lunch and celebrate successful aging by connecting with resources from as many as 50 vendors, as well as free health screenings, at the 23rd annual Spotlight on Seniors Expo on Tuesday, April 19.
The free indoor event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. For more information visit kentwood.us/events. Vendor space is still available. For more information, contact Ann Przybysz at 616-656-5284 or przybysza@kentwood.us.
The vendors will include a variety of senior-oriented businesses, the free health screenings will include blood pressure, posture, grip strength and mental health, and there will be door prizes as well as free snacks and lunch.
“The Spotlight on Seniors Expo is a meaningful way for seniors and other community members to come together in celebration of successful aging and to learn about local resources that support healthy lifestyles,” Kentwood Recreation Program Coordinator Ann Przybysz aid in supplied material. “Our partnership with Georgetown Seniors and our event sponsors is key to the long-term success of this community favorite.”
Participating vendors include professionals knowledgeable in everything from physical therapy and assisted living to home improvement and health care.
“Staying active, healthy and connected is paramount to our senior neighbors,” Pam Haverdink, director of the Georgetown Senior Center, said in supplied material. “We are pleased to partner with Kentwood Seniors and we are grateful to the vendors who help make it happen.”
Participants in a previous César E. Chávez Social Justice March which is on César E. Chávez Avenue.
The Committee to Honor César E. Chávez will host its annual remembrance march and luncheon today.
The event, Forward Together Down the César Chávez Avenue, kicks off at 11 a.m. with the social justice march down the newly named César E. Chávez Avenue. Staging is at the Cook Library Center, 1100 César E. Chávez Ave. SW. The march is free and open to the public.
There is a community gathering at Potter’s House Chapel and Unity Luncheon, which does require reservations to attend. At the Potter House event, GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella and former GRCC President Bill Pink, who has been selected as the new president of Ferris State University, will be honored. Chávez’s grandson, Andrew Chávez, director of strategic initiatives for the César Chávez Foundation, will be the special guest at the luncheon.
In November 2017, Wyoming Public Schools district voters approved a bond proposal which transformed Wyoming High School, and accomplished much needed modernization of other schools and district buildings.
Wyoming Public Schools high school building classroom after the 2017 bond funded improvements. (Supplied)
With those priority projects done, or set to be done this summer, the district is looking at more needed district infrastructure work, especially at Wyoming Junior High School, and not just needed upgrades but again “transforming” the educational setting for district students.
To do that, the district is seeking a bond renewal on the May 3, 2022, ballot which would allow it to gain additional funds while having no property tax increase over the current rate for district residents.
(District property tax payers could actually see a decrease in total property tax with passage May 3 of the City of Wyoming’s Proposals 1 & 2, which are the city’s proposed income tax and millage reduction proposals for funding of the Wyoming’s Police, Fire and Parks & Recreation Departments.)
Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra. (Supplied)
“If approved, the current (WPS bonding renewal) proposal would provide an additional $24.9 million for comprehensive renovations and the partial reconstruction of Wyoming Junior High School, a facility that has not seen major structural improvements in nearly forty-three years,” Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra said district informational material on the bond proposal. “And just like in 2017, if passed, this proposal will not raise the property tax rate above the current rate. The current millage rate (which has remained the same since 2016 and is currently lower than 14 of 20 Kent County school districts) would be extended into the future.”
The 2017 bond, according to Superintendent Hoekstra, “paved the way to remodel and reconstruct outdated buildings throughout the District; bring them up to code; and improve security, air quality, and technology.”
But with funds set aside from the 2017 bond approval, the district could only lightly renovate portions of the junior high.
“Having experienced the successful transformation of the High School, the District is asking the community to consider improvements to the Junior High as extensive as those made at Wyoming High School,” Hoekstra said.
Wyoming Public Schools photos of some of the problems with the junior high building. (Supplied)
Renovations and improvements to the junior high to be funded by the bond renewal include, according the district, modern learning environments, new furniture, and integrated technology; adequate lab spaces and equipment; improved air quality; replacement of failing building systems (such as roofing, plumbing, and electrical) to become energy efficient and meet modern building codes; and site improvements to traffic flow, aging parking lots, and athletic facilities.
To learn more about the 2022 bond proposal, and to see images of the work completed to date with funds from the 2017 bond, visit wyomingps2022.com.
According to ballot information from the Kent County Elections Office, the estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2023, is 0.94 ($0.94 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a 0 mill net increase over the prior year’s levy.
How and when to vote on the bond renewal
All registered voters can either vote in person on Election Day or send in an absentee ballot. Absentee ballots became available March 19, and must be returned by May 3 at 8 p.m. You can request an absentee ballot by contacting the City Clerk’s Office online or by phone.
In-person voting will take place on May 3 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the polling location designated by the city. You will need to bring your voter ID.
If you’re not registered to vote, you have a few options to become registered to vote in this election: By mail on or before April 18; online at michigan.gov/vote on or before April 18; in person at the City of Wyoming City Clerk’s office through May 3.
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s selection comes from Grand Rapids Public Museum educator Amanda Tabata.
Book: Dinosaur Lady Author: Linda Skeers Genre: Biography/Children
This beautifully illustrated book is perfect for inspiring curiosity in learners of all ages. The text is lively, perfect for reading aloud, while packing a scientific punch. Readers will come away with an appreciation for Mary Anning’s inquisitive spirit and rock solid perseverance. Pair up with the Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs exhibit at the GRPM to see one of Mary Anning’s exciting discoveries!
“Cars & Characters: A Celebration of Princesses and Superheroes”, a family-focused event scheduled for this weekend at the Gilmore Car Museum. (Supplied)
By WKTV Staff
“Cars & Characters: A Celebration of Princesses and Superheroes”, a family-focused event scheduled for this weekend at the Gilmore Car Museum promises to “combine a magical interaction for kids with storybook princesses and comic book superheroes,” according to an announcement form the museum.
And for for the adults, there will be indoor collection of more than 400 classic vehicles.
The event will be Saturday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For tickets and more information visit GilmoreCarMuseum.org.
Aurora and Frog Princess will be among the Princesses and Superheroes this weekend at the Gilmore Car Museum. (Supplied)
“Our princess and superhero events at the Gilmore have become a unique opportunity to engage and delight children, yet also educate and introduce them to automotive history,” Josh Russell, executive director of the Gilmore Car Museum, said in supplied material.
“Cars & Characters” will provide “aspiring young princesses and superheroes,” and their parents or grandparents, the opportunity for memorable photographs with more than 20 storybook princesses and comic book superheroes alongside carriages, royal coaches, limousines, and fairy tale backdrops.
Fairytale princesses will be cruising in cool cars at the Gilmore Car Museum next week. (Gilmore Car Museum)
Photos with the featured princesses and superheroes will be taken in front of special luxury vehicles from the Gilmore collections, including a 1936 Packard, the America’s Sweetheart Ford Model A, and the 1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Sedanca De-Ville from the 1967 Walt Disney film “The Gnome-Mobile”.
Several new “experiences” for children have been added to this year’s event, according to the announcement, including Storytime with Belle (a reading of a magical tale), “Certified Superhero Training Sessions” with Spiderman, and Pixie Dust Wishing Ceremony with Tinker Bell. There will also be a special new VIP Coronation Ceremony with the Frozen Sisters, available by separate VIP tickets.
Each activity happens every thirty minutes, is first come, first served, and is available to fifty guests at one time.
“Cars & Characters – A Celebration of Princesses and Superheroes” at the Gilmore Car Museum is produced in collaboration with Michigan-based Olivia Grace & Company, and its highly-regarded cast of unforgettable character performers.
