WKTV Journal

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

The City of Kentwood Summer Concert series continues this week with “Michigan’s Songbird”, May Erlewine, on Thursday, June 21.

The Summer Concert Series offers free concerts and family entertainment on select Thursday nights from June to August. All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, located at 4900 Breton Road SE.

In addition to a variety of music, the concerts offer a variety of food trucks at each concert offering food and beverages for purchase. Concert-goers are also encouraged to bring a blanket or their chair, and are welcome to bring their own beer or wine.

“Some people might call May Erlewine ‘Michigan’s Songbird’, but her songs have traveled far beyond her home state,” her website states. “One of the most prolific and passionate songwriters of her generation, May’s music has touched the hearts of people all over the world. Her words have held solace for weary hearts, offered a light in the darkness and held a lot of space for the pain and joy of being alive in these times. When she starts to sing, there’s no way around it. Welcome to the moment, everyone.

“Raised in a family rich with art and music, May began writing songs and playing them for the people at a very young age. Her journeys have taken her all over the world, from street corners to renowned stages, May has performed for all walks of life. In her travels Erlewine came to know the land and the pulse of the people. Her songs show a very real connection and concern with everyday folk.”

For more information on May Erlewine, visit her website here.

After May Erlewine, the remainder of the concert series will have Big Dudee Roo on July 12, The Moxie Strings on July 19, The Crane Wives on July 26, and Blue Soul Express to close out the series on Aug. 2.

For more information on the City of Kentwood Summer Concert Series, visit here.

MSU Horticulture Gardens will be abuzz with Bee-Palooza on June 24th

June 19, 20183-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Education, Food, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, Pets/Animals, Senior Living, Upcoming EventsBee Palooza, Entomology, Horticulture Garden, Julianna Wilson, Michigan State University Extension, MSU, PollinatorsJoanne

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Photos courtesy MSU Department of Entomology

By Julianna Wilson, MSU Department of Entomology

MSU Bee Palooza is held annually In celebration of National Pollinator Week in the lovely MSU Horticulture Gardens.

This free, fun and education event is organized by volunteers to provide an afternoon of interactive activities centered on understanding the wonderful world of pollinators. Stations are set up around the gardens and can be visited in any order. On display are active honeybee and bumblebee colonies, examples of wild Michigan bees and wild bee hotels, plants and gardening practices to support pollinators, as well as demonstrations about how important bees are to food production. Guided wild bee tours and other hands-on activities are offered throughout the afternoon event.

Why hold a Bee Palooza?

Worldwide reports and concerns about pollinator declines have increased awareness and interest in pollinators and what humans can do to help. In 2012, the United States established a National Pollinator Week, which inspired members of the MSU Department of Entomology to host the first Bee Palooza in the MSU Horticulture Gardens.

What are pollinators and why are they important?

Pollinators — especially bees — play an important role in the production of many seeds, nuts and fruits. Pollination is the transfer of pollen grains to fertilizer the seed-producing ovaries of flowers. Many trees, shrubs and wildflowers also depend on bees and other animals for pollination.

When: Sunday, June 24, 2018
Time: 1-4pm
Where: Michigan State University, 336 Village Dr, East Lansing, MI 48823, United States

For more info, go here. For the map, go here.

Pollinators & Pollination At MSU

Michigan is a leader in honey production and in many pollination-dependent fruit and vegetable crops. MSU Extension provides the latest information on pollinators and pollination including fact sheets from the Smart Gardening Program, webinars, educational seminars, email newsletters, and other online resources. Visit the Michigan Pollinator Initiative website for more information and resources for beekeepers, growers, and home gardeners.

Kentwood plans events to ask community to help ‘Plan Our Parks’

June 19, 20183-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, VeteransJoanne

City of Kentwood Veterans Memorial Park, at 331 48th St. SE, will be the location of the first of a series of community gatherings on the future of the city’s parks. (WKTV)

By City of Kentwood

The City of Kentwood is seeking public input for improving its Parks and Recreation Department programming through a series of Parks Master Planning events, which will kick off with an ice cream social on Wednesday, June 27.

Hosted by the city, the first event will be held at Veterans Memorial Park, 331 48th St. SE, from 6 to 8 p.m., and include complimentary ice cream for participants.

Residents of all ages will have the opportunity to help shape the future of Kentwood’s parks by sharing their ideas which will be used as a basis for future parks and recreation development.

“We recently celebrated Kentwood’s 50th anniversary as a City,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Now, we are eager to engage the community to help guide the future of our parks and recreation for the next 50 years.”

Following the event at Veterans Park, other opportunities for input will be offered during other upcoming community events including The Moxie Strings concert at Kentwood City Hall on July 19, an ice cream social at Northeast Park from 6 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 1, the Celebrate Kentwood gathering on Aug. 11, and the End of Summer Food Truck Festival on Sept. 15.

“We welcome all residents and park users to join us at these events to help plan our parks,” Romeo said. “We want to know what improvements the community wants to see. These events offer the perfect platform to share stories and insights as we begin to transform our parks.”

For more information, please visit Kentwood.us/parks.

Snapshots: Fun news you need to know from Wyoming, Kentwood and beyond

June 15, 20183-bottom, Area Education, Beer, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Food, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Business, Our Cities, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, Upcoming EventsAllendale Community Field Day, Father's Day, Masayuki Koorida, Meijer Garden, SnapshotsJoanne

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Give Dad a Father’s Day he’ll love in West Michigan

Don’t forget that Father’s Day is Sunday, June 17th. Many West Michigan businesses are hosting special events, discounts, or offers for the dad in all of our lives. No matter his interest, you’ll find something for him here.

Extensive Masayuki Koorida solo exhibit comes to West Michigan at Meijer Gardens

If you know the work of Japanese artist Masayuki Koorida exclusively from the polished, yet unfinished, stones of “Existence”, located in the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park’s Japanese Garden, you are in for a surprise.

West Michigan’s natural history to be explored during community field day

The 7th annual Allendale Community Field Day — on Saturday, June 16th — will offer members of the West Michigan community the chance to learn about the natural history of the region.

Concussion: My Kid Has a Head Injury!

June 14, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, Non-ProfitsBrain injury, Cherry Health, Concussion, Lori Nieboer, TraumaJoanne

By Lori Nieboer, PA-C, MPH, Physician Assistant at Union High School Health Center

Today’s injury focus is on the head (i.e. concussions or traumatic brain injuries). Concussions are important to know about, so we can prevent them and keep our kids safe from further harm if they do get injured. The sports we usually see the most head injuries are typically football, soccer, and basketball.

What is a concussion?

A type of traumatic brain injury that changes the way the brain usually works. It can be caused by a hit, blow, bump, or any movement that causes the brain and head to move quickly back and forth.

What are the symptoms?

Headache
Nausea and/or vomiting
Sensitivity to light
Sensitivity to noise
Confusion
Not feeling “right”
Memory problems
Irritability/mood changes

What are concussion danger signs?

One pupil larger than the other
Repeated vomiting or nausea
Becomes increasingly confused, agitated, or drowsy
Slurred speech
Seizures
Loses consciousness

What do I do if I think my child has a concussion?

Stop activity and seek medical attention
Rest is key:
- Avoid all exercise, screen time, and mental activity (i.e. school, reading, homework)
- Gradual return to mental and physical activity should take place over days and under the supervision of a health care provider
Inform your child’s school, so they can lighten coursework as needed upon your child’s return

Concussion myths:

I need to keep my child awake after a concussion.

MYTH! Rest is important to healing after a concussion. Seek emergency care if your child is overly drowsy or you are concerned they are acting odd.

I don’t have a concussion because the CT scan was normal.

MYTH! A CT scan will show any damage to the brain structures, but may not show a mild traumatic brain injury.

You can recover from a concussion in 24 hours.

MYTH! In fact, even if symptoms are gone, it typically takes the brain around seven days to fully recover from a concussion.

You can only diagnose a concussion if consciousness is lost.

MYTH! Many times, a person with a concussion does not lose consciousness; they still need to be monitored and returned to activity gradually.

For more information visit here.

Disc golf, a hot sport locally, now available on WKTV community TV

June 14, 2018Kids Activities, Recreation, SportsDisc Golf Live, WKTV SportsJoanne

Disc golf is big in West Michigan and is now on WKTV cable television. (U.S. Air Force photo)

By Elmer Cox, for WKTV

Citizens of Kentwood, Wyoming and the surrounding area can now find out about a relatively new sport on a program called Disc Golf Live, now on WKTV community television.

Disc Golf Live is produced by Hucker Report, and will air on Wednesdays at 4 p.m., Fridays at noon and at various times on Saturdays, beginning this week on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.

Each episode is designed in four sections: Disc golf world wide tournament highlights, instructional highlights for all levels of players, views of disc golf courses from around the world, and interviews with all the top players.

Beginning as early as the 1970s, disc golf began being popular all over the country. Some called it Frisbee or Frisbee golf. Others named it disc golf. Disc golf courses began to grow up all over the area including Brewer Park in Byron Center, Riverside Park in downtown Grand Rapids, Fallasburg Park in Lowell, as well as Johnson Park, Old Farm, Garfield Park, JC Park and Grand Isle Park Rotary Disc Golf Park in the Comstock Park area.

In recent years, the World Seniors Tour Disc Golf Tournament was held in Grand Rapids with entrants from most of the states in the U.S. and many foreign countries.

For a complete schedule of broadcasts on WKTV community television, visit wktv.org and click on the Programming tab.

Family fun at the county fair

June 12, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, How-To's, Kids ActivitiesCounty fairs, Michigan State University Extension, summer fun, Theresa SilmJoanne

By Theresa Silm, Michigan State University Extension

Many families are looking to maximize their budget by cutting out the week-long get-a-way vacations during the summer, but still want to enjoy family time together and offer their children opportunities to learn and see new things. County fairs can offer one perfect solution for families all over the state.

From the first fair starting at the end of June to the last fair of the season in late September, there is probably at least one county fair within an hour drive of your home and each one offers lots to see and do. If you have more time and are willing to travel a little more, you can tour your area of the state and visit several fairs.

Local county fairs provide 4-H and FFA members with opportunities to show their cattle, horses, sheep, pigs, dogs, llamas, small animals, rabbits, chickens and cats, demonstrating what they have learned. Visitors have a chance to see animals they may not have seen before. The youth exhibitors like to talk about their animals, so take a minute and ask them what kind or breed the animal is, what it eats or how they take care of it. Sometimes the exhibitor might offer to let you touch their animal, but it is a good idea never to touch or pet the animals without the owner’s permission and their help.

Some fairs have petting tents or baby animal tents specifically designed for visitors to see and touch the animals, so that might be another option. Remember to be sure everyone washes their hands well after touching any animals. To make it easy, just stick a small container of hand sanitizer in your pocket and take it along when you go.

Walking around the fair is a great way to get a little extra exercise into your family’s day and provides lots of conversation starters for all ages. Check out the flower and vegetable displays and see what new types you can find. Ask children to look for something that they haven’t seen before or something they could plant in your family garden next year. Looking at all the exhibits is a good time for you to talk about skills your child might like to learn and to find out how to get involved in a 4-H club near you. You could even give each child a paper with the alphabet written down the left side of the paper and have them find something at the Fair that starts with each letter.

Of course, there are a lot of other things to see and do at a county fair, this is just a start, so check out the one closest to you. Find a list of Michigan fairs and let the fun and learning begin!

Keep classroom pets out of the wild

June 12, 20183-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, Pets/AnimalsClassroom pet, Crayfish, Invasion, Michigan State University Extension, National Science Teachers Association, Native species, Paige Filice, Tara EavyJoanne

Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Paige Filice, and Tara Eavy, Michigan State University Extension

Some of the most memorable moments in the classroom are the ones shared with the class hamster, fish, gecko or other animal. Pets enrich classroom learning by teaching responsibility and sensitivity towards living things. A student exposed to animals in the classroom may have higher self-esteem, nurturing skills, social skills and interest in attending class. Integrating animals into the curriculum also encourages a greater appreciation for the complexity of life. Use of live animals helps students develop observation and comparison skills as they study the shared and unique traits of specific organisms.

Classroom pets enable educators to teach responsibility towards not only living creatures, but also their habitats and Michigan’s ecosystems. To demonstrate that responsible behavior, teachers should take steps to prevent the release of classroom fish, plants or other animals into the wild. As the National Science Teachers Association recommends, teachers should “refrain from releasing animals into a non-indigenous environment.” Many non-native plants and animals are used in the classroom, and some can become invasive in the wild. Once introduced, they can disrupt the food chain and out-compete native species for food and habitat. Even those that are ill-equipped to survive our Michigan winters can cause harm while alive, and can introduce disease to our native flora and fauna.

Some of Michigan’s notorious invaders, such as rusty and red swamp crayfish, have been kept as learning aids in classrooms. Crayfish are fun to watch and are easy to feed and care for, making them ideal additions to an aquarium. They play an important role in aquatic food chains as scavengers, cleaning up dead plants and animals for their food. However, both red swamp and rusty crayfish are now illegal to possess in Michigan and unfortunately are difficult to identify when young and can be accidentally sold by biological supply companies and pet stores by mistake to teachers. These crayfish compete aggressively with native species for food and habitat and can even reduce shoreline habitat and decrease water quality due to their aggressive burrowing. Both species have been found in the wild in Michigan and were likely introduced from an aquarium that was released into a river or stream.

Therefore, as we come to the end of the school year, it is important to be aware of alternatives to releasing classroom animals and plants into the wild. Even native species of crayfish, fish and birds that are caught in the wild and brought into the classroom for learning, should never be re-released into the wild because of their potential as vectors for disease. Investigate loaning or giving them to dedicated hobbyists, environmental learning centers, aquariums or zoos. Unwanted fish, plants and animals can often be returned to local, independent retailers, but be sure to inquire before arriving with a bucket full of fish! If unable to find a home for your classroom pets, contact a veterinarian or pet retailer for guidance on humane disposal.

Michigan’s invasive species education initiative, RIPPLE (Reduce Invasive Pet and Plant Escapes) was developed by Michigan State University Extension and adopted by the Michigan Departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality and Agriculture and Rural Development. Through RIPPLE, educators can request free materials on invasive species that can be used in the classroom. More information about invasive species, regulations and prevention can be found on the State of Michigan invasive species website.

State Police offers tips on personal fireworks safety this summer

June 11, 20183-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Holidays, Kids Activities, RecreationMichigan State PoliceJoanne

Sparklers may be a favorite for families with kids, but care needs to be used with any fireworks.

By Michigan State Police

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an average of 240 people nationwide go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the Fourth of July holiday. Due to these injuries, the Michigan State Police is reminding citizens to take extra safety precautions if your July Fourth celebration includes fireworks.

“Fireworks pose a serious fire and burn hazard because they are unpredictable,” said Community Service Trooper Martin Miller, Rockford Post. “Even supervised use of legal fireworks can result in devastating injuries.”

If you choose to use fireworks at home, follow these safety precautions:

Read and follow all warnings and instructions included on the packaging.

Never allow children to play with fireworks of any kind.

Only use fireworks outdoors.

Wear protective clothing, including eyewear.

Only ignite devices on smooth, flat surfaces away from residential areas, dry leaves and flammable materials.

Always keep a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of malfunction.

Never try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functioned.

The sale and use of consumer fireworks became legal on Jan. 1, 2012, when the Michigan Fireworks Safety Act, Public Act 256 of 2011, went into effect. Low impact fireworks and ground-based items, such as sparkers, toy snakes, snaps and poppers remain legal for sale and use.

A list of legal consumer fireworks, legal low impact fireworks and novelties is outlined here.

To learn more about fireworks safety, the Michigan Fireworks Safety Act or state-certified fireworks retailers, go to the Bureau of Fire Services website here.

Kentwood concerts kick off June 14 with Adams Family, run through Aug. 2

June 7, 20183-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Recreation, Upcoming EventsKentwood Summer Concert Series, The Adams FamilyJoanne

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

By WKTV Staff

Heart of the City Health Center
Westside Health Center

Maybe the best known of the headliners at this summer’s City of Kentwood Summer Concert series are West Michigan favorites The Crane Wives, May Erlewine and The Moxie Strings.

But, starting with The Adams Family coming to town next week, there is not a sour note in a series that will feature an eclectic mix of indie, folk, country, blues and rock music.

“One of the best ways to embrace the warm weather with family and friends is to relax and unwind with live music outdoors,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “We are thrilled with our lineup for this year’s summer concert series, and welcome concert-goers of all ages to celebrate summer in Kentwood with us.”

Opening the series, The Adams Family play a blend of folk, doo-wop and classic rock by members Jerry Adams, Brian Adams, Cindy Adams Kropf and Dale Kropf. The band is out of Lowell and describe themselves as an “acoustic folkin’ rock” band.

“When you hear the intricate vocal blend that only close relatives can create, there’s no mistaking that The Adams Family really is a family,” a statement on the band’s website reads. “The band features three lead vocalists: Cindy Adams Kropf, her brother Jerry Adams, and Jerry’s son Brian Adams. Rounding out the group is Cindy’s husband, Dale Kropf, on bass and background vocals.”

For more information on The Adams Family, visit their website here.

After The Adams Family on June 14, there rest of the series will feature May Erlewine on June 21, Big Dudee Roo on July 12, The Moxie Strings on July 19, The Crane Wives on July 26, and Blue Soul Express to close out the series on Aug. 2.

For more information on the City of Kentwood Summer Concert Series, visit here.

These concerts are cable rebroadcast on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99, usually on the following Tuesday at 9 p.m. and Saturday at 12:30 p.m. (or following the rebroadcast of a City of Wyoming summer concert. See WKTVjournal.org for complete feature broadcast schedules.

Sportsmanship: Make it a measurement of character

June 4, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, Senior Living, VolunteersGood behavior, Josephson Institute of Ethics, Michigan State University Extension, Role model, sports, Terry Clark-JonesJoanne

By Terry Clark-Jones, Michigan State University Extension

Sportsmanship is a way of life. What type of role model are you?

We usually think of sports as a way to teach kids various physical skills, but youth sports can offer many more learning experiences. There is a lot of research and writing concerning performance but there is very little on the impact around the social, emotional, intellectual, and moral impact of participants according to the Josephson Institute of Ethics. Children learn behavior from the adults most important to them. Those important people could be the parent, a teacher, coaches or a good friend. Regardless, it is important that adults model appropriate ways of being a good competitor and spectator.

Sports are a major social forces that shape the quality and character of American culture. It is an opportunity to teach kids how to handle themselves positively in difficult situations. Below are examples of how grownups can teach a child (and maybe some adults) to be a generous competitor, a good loser, and a graceful winner.

Teach sportsmanship — Require participants to demonstrate sportsmanship before, during and after a competitive event. This can be accomplished by following rules, being honest and fair, showing respect, being well-mannered, and accepting outcomes gracefully.

Applaud your children — Be sure to express your appreciation to the children, the other club/group, officials and others you wish to show respect. Examples of this are to accept the ruling of the officials, congratulate all participants, remain positive at all times, and be cheerful and friendly.

Show respect to others — Don’t heckle, boo, make rude and sarcastic comments or insult other spectators, competitors, coaches or officials. Try to keep emotions under control and give others the benefit of the doubt. Again show respect and please refrain from public arguments.

Be a polite participant — Listen, act interested, and remain quiet when participants are introduced or when announcements are made. Stay until the end of the event, even if your child is finished competing. By doing this you are being a positive role model and showing integrity. Be objective and accept the nature of competition.

Show Courtesy to others — Do not block the view of others when taking pictures or videos, standing in aisles, or by jumping and standing up in moments of excitement. Always leave the viewing area clean by throwing away any litter.

By practicing the above examples, any event can be a pleasurable activity for all involved. Most importantly you will become a positive role model for the youth around you!

Michigan State University Extension offers a multitude of classes and resources on stress and anger manage, parenting, conflict resolution and violence prevention.

The dangers of secondhand smoke

June 4, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, Senior LivingAmerican Cancer Society, Kea Norrell-Aitch, Michigan State University Extension, Secondhand smoke, Smoking killsJoanne

Children are susceptible to dangers associated with secondhand smoke.

By Kea Norrell-Aitch, Michigan State University Extension

It is not safe to smoke cigarettes around children and, more importantly, it is not safe to smoke at all. But if adults determine they want to smoke, then they can consider this information for keeping their children safe and healthy.

Smoking cigarettes or using smokeless tobacco is detrimental to your health. Smoking can be addicting, which makes it difficult to quit. Tobacco products damage many organs in your body and can cause heart disease and cancer.

Why is smoking bad for your health?

Tobacco contains a chemical called “nicotine” that gives smokers a pleasant feeling. People get addicted to that good feeling. Electronic cigarettes and “vapes” also deliver nicotine. Just because these products are popular does not mean they are safe. In addition to the nicotine, tobacco products have other poisonous chemicals in them. These toxic substances can poison your body over time, especially your heart and lungs.

According to the American Heart Association, some of the thousands of chemicals found in cigarette smoke or smokeless tobacco are also found in other familiar things:

Acetone — nail polish remover
Hydrogen cyanide — insecticide
Methanol — antifreeze
Cadmium — batteries
Hydrazine — rocket fuel
Toluene — paint thinner
Polonium 210 — nuclear waste
Formaldehyde — embalming fluid
Lead — once used in paint
Nitrosamines — cancer-causing substances
Arsenic— used in pesticides
Propylene glycol – automobile anti-freeze

Now that we have reviewed the chemicals found in cigarettes, would you drink any of them? Would you give your baby or child any of these chemicals in a bottle or cup? That is essentially what you are doing when you smoke around them. It may not be as potent as the exact chemical, but over time smoking will have adverse effects from secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke is smoke inhaled involuntarily from tobacco being smoked by another.

Effects of secondhand smoke

Children are most affected by secondhand smoke and least able to avoid it (because they have no control over their parents or caretakers actions). The secondhand smoke can come from adults smoking at home or in the car. Children who have parents who smoke are more likely to have the following health issues:

Asthma and asthma attacks
Lung infections
Ear infections
Colds including increased coughing and wheezing
Tooth decay

Many people think their children will not be affected by secondhand smoke if they smoke outside, in a different room in the house or in the car with the window open. All of these scenarios are false. Children can still be affected by secondhand smoke in the above-mentioned situations. Smoke can get in the parents’ clothes, hair, skin and in the areas where children are sitting or sleeping. If you can smell the smoke, then the chemicals are entering into your body and causing harm.

Did you know there is also something called “thirdhand smoke?” According to the American Cancer Society, thirdhand smoke is when the harmful toxins remain in places where people have smoked. Thirdhand smoke can be found in walls and upholstery.

Many times, children and teens watch and mimic what they see adults doing. Research from the American Cancer Society has shown that teen tobacco users are more likely to use alcohol and illegal drugs than are non-users. Cigarette smokers are also more likely to get into fights, carry weapons, attempt suicide, suffer from mental health problems such as depression, and engage in high-risk sexual behaviors. This doesn’t necessarily mean tobacco use caused these behaviors, but they’re more common in teens that use tobacco.

The American Cancer Society says if you smoke, one of the most important things you can do for your own health and the health of your children is to stop smoking. Quitting is the best way to prevent your children from being exposed to secondhand smoke. It may be hard to quit, but you can talk to your doctor or your child’s pediatrician if you need help.

Summer Festivals in West Michigan

May 31, 20183-bottom, Beer, Citizen Journalism, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Local Food, Our Cities, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, Upcoming EventsCharlevoix, Cherry Festival, Craft Beer, Divas Uncorked, Festival of the Arts, Jeremy Witt, June Festivals in West Michigan, Lilac Festival, Strawberry Moon, vineyards, West Michigan Tourist Association, wineJoanne

By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

With summer comes a slew of festivals in West Michigan, each entirely unique and memorable. We’re talking about festivals centered around food, beer, art, culture, and more throughout the next few months. With events taking place nearly every week throughout the summer, there’s always something right around the corner for you to experience with these West Michigan festivals.

June Festivals in West Michigan

The Festival of the Arts is a three-day community celebration in downtown Grand Rapids offering art, food, entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. This year’s event is June 1st to 3rd, and will continue the tradition of bringing together the Grand Rapids art community for a summer kick-off. Ongoing for over 40 years, the Festival of the Arts is one of the longest-running festivals in the state.

The Mecosta area is home to festivals throughout the summer. The Lilac Festival is a chance for families to come out and do something fun, as a hometown, family-friendly event from June 1st to 3rd. Return for a summer of festivals, including the Morley Celebration on the Pond, Remus Heritage Days, and Mecosta County Agricultural Fair.

The Charlevoix Craft Beer Festival is a celebration of Michigan craft beer, local food, and entertainment on Saturday, June 2nd. The aim of the festival is to provide patrons the opportunity to enjoy a varied selection of high-quality Michigan craft beer while mingling with friends at the beautiful waterside venue. Attendees are encouraged to venture out and explore downtown Charlevoix’s culinary and retail offerings prior to and after the event.

The band Moxie Strings is set to appear at Cogdal Vineyards in South Haven on Sunday, June 3rd for the Cogdal Vineyards Wine Lovers’ Festival. Attendees can expect a fun experience of high-energy, original, and traditional tunes performed on five-string fiddle and electric cello while enjoying a glass of delicious wine.

Plan a summer fun Girls’ Night Out with Divas Uncorked, the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula Divas Uncorked event on Friday, June 8th. This evening is devoted entirely to women, wine, food, and fun. Enjoy wine and food pairings, giveaways, shopping, and pampering. Bring your entourage, relax, and be fabulous!

Whether you’re looking for a fun and easy family getaway or a big night out on the town with friends, Mt. Pleasant offers a little bit of everything. They have a wide variety of events this summer, kicking off with the Back to the Bricks car show on Friday, June 8th. The following day, craft beer enthusiasts gather for the Mt. Pleasant Craft Beer Festival, showcasing some of Michigan’s greatest brews. There won’t be a dull moment during your trip to Mt. Pleasant.

Feast of the Strawberry Moon is June 9th and 10th in Grand Haven. The event includes reenactments, a kids day, live entertainment, and more as they explore the middleground world that evolved between Europeans and the Native Americans in the Great Lakes Region during the pre-1800 fur trade era.

Grand Haven hosts some of West Michigan’s fan-favorite festivals every summer. The Spring Lake Heritage Festival is June 11th to 16th, and has family fun like no other. The following week is the Grand Haven Art Festival on June 23th and 24th. The event seeks to provide the community and visitors with a unique opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind art, directly from the artists.

Music, boating, arts, and culture are all happening in River Country. Some of the area’s most popular annual events include the Three Rivers Water Fest from June 14th to 16th and Sturgis Fest from June 23rd to 30th. More events include Covered Bridge Days and the Magic Get-Together later in the summer. They have a full event calendar on their website, so check that out if you need to fill your time in southwest Michigan!

The Michigan Maritime Museum presents the 37th Antique & Classic Boat Show on Saturday, June 16th, during Harborfest weekend in South Haven. This event celebrates all kinds of antique and classic small craft from power boats to paddle boats. Woodworkers and collectors alike will show their boats, demonstrations on boat building techniques will be featured, and toy boat building will be available for kids. The aim is to help perpetuate the building, restoration, and use of classic boats and small craft to give participants and the public an entertaining and informative learning experience.

Founders Brewing Company in Grand Rapids is pleased to present to you Founders Fest 2018: A Celebration of Beer and Music on Saturday, June 16th. In its 11th year, Founders Fest continues to marry the finest beer with the tastiest artists from around the country and the world.

Located at the scenic Warren Dunes State Park in Sawyer, the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival brings together the members of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail for a spectacular day in the sand on Saturday, June 16th. The festival will feature fantastic regional live music, food trucks, and local restaurants to pair with the world-class wines produced right in southwest Michigan.

Whitehall is home to the 40th Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts. The festival is expected to draw thousands of people this Father’s Day weekend on June 16th and 17th. Creative artists will participate in this very popular juried art show, and attendees can purchase a variety of hand-made art and crafts such as jewelry, wood furniture, birdhouses, ceramics, and more. A great lineup of musicians will entertain the crowds throughout the weekend.

The 9th Annual Traverse City Wine & Cider Festival is Saturday, June 24th. Come celebrate local wine, food, and culture. The festival brings together a true taste of the region with great wines, art, food trucks, and live musical entertainment all in one location!

Visit Lansing for the 19th Annual Common Ground Music Festival from June 28th to July 1st! See some of the best rock, pop, country, and hip-hop stars in the world take the stage in downtown Lansing along the Grand River in a setting unlike any other.

June in Battle Creek means it’s time for the Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival from June 28th to July 4th. Balloon launches or fly-ins take place every night (weather dependent) and air shows take place at noon.

The Soo Locks Engineers Weekend begins on Friday, June 29th in Sault Ste. Marie. This fun weekend offers exclusive access to some of the area’s historic and interesting attractions such as the Locks and the Cloverland Electric Hydroelectric Power Plant.

The 60th annual South Haven Art Fair hosted by the South Haven Center for the Arts is a two-day juried festival held one block from the Lake Michigan shore in picturesque Stanley Johnson Park on June 30th and July 1st. This year’s unique blend of talent includes works in acrylic, oil, watercolor, pastel, drawing, sculpture, photography, glass, wood, clay, and wearable art. Admission is free for this two-day event.

The National Cherry Festival brings people from all over the world to Traverse City for a week-long celebration surrounding the cherry. Not only that, it attracts people from all over Michigan, the five-county area, and even just across the street to participate in activities. Come celebrate the Cherry Capital of the World from June 30th to July 7th for another year of food, drink, entertainment, and tradition!

Did you know? Your child needs a check-up once a year

May 24, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Our CitiesAsthma, Cherry Health, Immunizations, mental health, Obesity, Well child visitsJoanne

By Cherry Health

Pediatric services are available at Heart of the City Health Center and Westside Health Center. Babies and children need more doctor’s visits when they are changing and growing the fastest. Get your child on the right health care path by scheduling an appointment today. We provide a full range of services under one roof.

Grand Rapids:

Westside Health Center Pediatrics

At Westside Health Center Pediatrics, we want to take care of the whole patient by working as a team. We are improving what we do by changing the way we care for you.

Asthma care is provided as a team. The doctor checks the patient to make sure they have a healthy body. The RN Health Coach teaches the patient and family how to make living with asthma easier.

We also have team visits with a doctor and Health Coach for weight check ups. The doctor provides the physical check up at the visit. The Health Coach teaches the patient and family about healthy behaviors that are part of a healthy lifestyle, and helps the family set healthy living goals.

Complete health means taking care of our minds, too. When minds are not healthy, home and school can be difficult. Counseling services are provided on site in a place where the patient and family already feel comfortable. A psychiatrist is also on site to provide specialized help when needed.

Services available

Well child visits, sports, work and camp physicals
Immunizations
Lab work and diagnostic testing
Treatment for minor illness and injuries
Treatment for asthma, obesity and other conditions
Referrals for more serious illness, injuries and additional care
Access to behavioral health, dental and vision services
On-site pharmacy services
Free interpretation services
Online Patient Portal
Nurses available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for questions or assistance
Evening and weekend hours
Same day/next day appointments

Check out our new videos featuring asthma instruction and fun ways to get the kids moving!

Videos

Reach out and Read

Wyoming Community Health Center (courtesy Cherry Health)

Six of our locations participate in the national, research-proven school readiness program called Reach out and Read. This program, designed for children ages 6 months through 5 years of age provides a child with a new book at each regular check up to take home. Trained providers speak with parents about the importance of reading aloud and waiting rooms are filled with kids books. The goal of Reach out and Read is to help children be better prepared for kindergarten with larger vocabularies, stronger language skills and a six-month developmental edge.

Women Infants and Children Program (WIC)

Cherry Health collaborates with the Kent County Health Department to offer the Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC) at Cherry Street Health Center and Westside Health Center. This is a state-funded nutrition education and food supplement program for pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women and children up to age five. A registered dietitian provides counseling and education, as well as healthy foods to encourage proper nutrition, growth and development during pregnancy and the formative years of childhood. Breastfeeding education and support are also offered in the WIC Program. Pregnant women seen at any of our sites are offered WIC services, based on specific nutritional needs and income eligibility. For additional information, please contact 616.776.2134.

Maternal Infant Health Program

The Maternal Infant Health Program (MIHP) is a parent support and coaching program for pregnant mothers and infants. If you are pregnant or have a baby under a year old, and are Medicaid eligible, you can receive MIHP as part of your insurance coverage.

MIHP services are provided by a team to support and encourage new parents. Services can be provided in your home, our office, or another place that you choose in the community.

We can help you:

Feel prepared for your baby’s birth
Make good choices for you and your baby
Understand your pregnancy and your baby’s development
Find medical care for you and your baby
Find the right resources in the community

MIHP involves a whole team in supporting families.

Your nurse will answer your questions and give you information about healthy pregnancy and infant development.
Your social worker will help you adjust to your pregnancy and parenting, handle stress, and find the resources you need.
The dietitian will help you understand healthy eating for pregnancy and how to feed your baby.

Community health workers can provide support, encouragement, and education as well as hands-on help connecting to resources in the community.

The community health workers are part of the Strong Beginnings program, which provides enhanced services for African-American and Latina moms participating in MIHP.

If you would like to receive MIHP and Strong Beginnings or learn more, please contact the MIHP Manager at 616.965.8332.

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

5 Local Things You Need to Know: Headlines for the week

May 22, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Our CitiesAlpha Wolf, Festival of the Arts, Ford Airport, graduates, Meijer Gardens summer concert series, Senator peters, Wyoming High SchoolJoanne

WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

More than 1,700 students set to graduate from schools in Wyoming, Kentwood

More than 1,700 students will be graduating from high schools in Kentwood and Wyoming during the next couple of weeks. Go here for a breakdown of when some of the local graduation ceremonies are taking place.

Ford Airport leader welcomes Sen. Peters’ introduction of bill to fund airport security

The bill allows airports to use Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds on state of the art surveillance cameras in public areas such as baggage claims or pick up and drop off areas. Go here for the complete story.

Glue-in, souvlaki: Festival of the Arts is all about making memories

The VOICES vintage Airstream trailer, which is a a local and regional oral history project that collects, preserves and shares stories form everyday residents of West Michigan, will be at this year’s 49th Festival of the Arts, set for June 1, 2, and 3. The trailer will be there to collect stories from Festival volunteers and participants. Go here to read the story.

Evolution of Meijer Gardens summer concert series a bit of a surprising success

The venue and the mix of musical genres and audiences has not only been a success, the summer concert series has benefited Meijer Gardens on several levels: promotional, financial and patron inclusiveness. Click here to read the story.

Wyoming High School presents its spring Alpha Wolf 11 awards

Started in 2016, the Alpha Wolf 11 Champion of Character award recognizes six students each semester and one teacher each year for character and treating others by “being kind, compassionate, and gracious”. Read more here.

5 Local Things You Need to Know: For the weekend, to start next week

May 18, 20183-bottom, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local History, Recreation, Upcoming EventsWKTV 5 ThingsJoanne

The Meyer May House maybe the most famous house in Grand Rapids, but there are many grand homes in Heritage Hill that you can check out this weekend. (Supplied)

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Wyoming: Honor a local hero by attending his statue unveiling

Roger B. Chaffee Photo courtesy of the Grand Rapids Public Museum

While the City of Wyoming has a Roger B. Chaffee Boulevard and an American Legion Roger B. Chaffee Post 154, the hero’s home town was Grand Rapids. So, a full-sized bronze statue of Apollo Astronaut Roger B. Chaffee will be unveiled at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, at the corner of East Fulton Street and Sheldon Avenue NE, near the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum.

Kentwood: While you are out having fun, avoid this roadwork in town

The City Commission recently approved the city’s resurfacing and maintenance program, which includes improvements to 22 miles of major and local roads. We have your list of where to avoid when you are out and about in the city this week: a tentative road construction and maintenance schedule for the summer.

Grand Rapids: Heritage Hill’s annual open house weekend his here

The Annual Heritage Hill Tour welcomes you inside seven restored private houses and three historic buildings. (Supplied)

The Annual Heritage Hill Tour welcomes you inside seven restored private houses and three historic buildings on Saturday, May 19, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, May 20, from noon to 6 p.m. Tour offers an interior view of stunning turn of the century homes each uniquely styled by current owners.

Wyoming: Big trucks, hotdogs and loads of fun for kids of all ages

Public Works employee Carlos Ochoa shows off one of the trucks that collects leaves. (WKTV File)

The City of Wyoming is celebrating National Public Works Week once again on Monday, May 21, at the Wyoming Public Works Department, 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW. The event that attracts more than 1,500 visitors gives the public the chance to learn about the city’s Public Works Department and its services, meet community members and much more.

Entertainment: The Grand Rapids Symphony offers up Beethoven’s Ninth

Grand Rapids Symphony, conducted by Marcelo Lehninger, will be in concert this weekend. (Supplied/Stu Rosner)

The Grand Rapids Symphony ends its 2017-18 season with Beethoven’s Ninth at 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday, May 18-19, in DeVos Performance Hall. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 is one of the greatest achievements, not only in classical music, but in all of Western culture. Beethoven’s last symphony and his only symphony to use voices began as a defiant statement of freedom hurled at the repressive monarchies of Europe. Today, the finale of Beethoven’sNinth Symphony, is the official anthem of the European Union.

Wyoming ‘Concerts in the Park’ is back this year, on Tuesdays, from June 5-Aug. 7

May 7, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Senior LivingJoanne

By City of Wyoming

The Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission is back again this year with an outstanding line-up of concerts for the 2018 Concerts in the Park series at Lamar Park. Concerts begin at 7 pm.

For more detailed information, check out the WCEC here, or on Facebook (search WyomingCEC).

Dates: June 5-Aug. 7, 2018
Day: Tuesdays
Time: 7 pm
Location: Lamar Park

Concert line-up (subject to change):

June 5 — The Porters (Children’s interactive music)
June 12 — Delilah DeWylde (Rockabilly)
June 19 — Adams Family (’50s and ’60s)
June 26 — Valentiger (Charismatic Pop Rock); Kari Lynch Band (Country); FIREWORKS after concert
July 10 — Cabildo (Alternative Latin Rock)
July 17 — Soul Syndicate (’60s, ’70s Soul and R&B)
July 24 — Blue Soul Express (Blues)
July 31 — Matt Gabriel (Folk and Blues)
Aug. 7 — Yellow Brick Road (Dueling Pianos featuring the music of Billy Joel and Elton John)

5 Local Things You Need to Know: For the weekend, to start next week

May 4, 2018Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Food, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, Upcoming EventsGrand Rapids Public Museum, Lamar Park, Lighthouse Map, live mermaid, Tulips, West Michigan Tourist Association, Wyoming's Spring CarnivalJoanne

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Wyoming: Spring Carnival wraps up this weekend

Wyoming’s celebration of spring, its annual carnival at Lamar Park, is wrapping up its final days. The carnival runs through Sunday, May 6. The carnival features entertainment for all ages, including games, prizes, and carnival fare favorites. A spectrum of rides will be available for carnival-goers, from crowd pleasers, such as a carousel and Ferris Wheel to the adrenaline-inducing Mega Drop and Wipe Out.

Time for the Tulips

Buff up those wooden shoes and head toward Holland as the city gears up for the annual Tulip Time festival. There will be Dutch dancing, parades, a carnival, an artist market, performances of all kinds, five million tulips in bloom, and more Dutch dancing. The official activities kick off Saturday, May 5, and run through May 13.

For more, click here.

‘Dust-Off’ Metro Cruise kicks off May 5

‘Dust Off’, the precursor to the annual Metro Cruise, kicks off this Saturday, May 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s become a favorite tradition, with car owners revving up for the summer car show, finally being able to show off what has been stored under those tarps.

30th anniversary edition of Lighthouse Map now available

Lighthouse lovers, get ready to plan your next lighthouse adventure! The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) is excited to announce the release of the 2018 Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour. This is a free poster-sized publication which details all of the lighthouses located on the shores of Lake Michigan, as well as the Circle Tour driving route to guide motorists around the lake.

Live Mermaid to return to Grand Rapids Public Museum

Admission to Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids is $12 for adults, $7 for children, $9 for Kent County resident adults, $4 for Kent County resident children, and $2 for all Museum members! Tickets include general admission to the Museum, and can be purchased online at grpm.org or by calling 616.929.1700.

Summer Camps in West Michigan offer myriad fun activities

May 2, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Upcoming EventsCompass College, Critter Barn, Downtown Market, Fun activities, Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Rapids Ballet, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Jeremy Witt, summer camp, West Michigan Tourist AssociationJoanne

Photo courtesy of Compass College of Cinematic Arts

By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

It’s nearly that time again! Get your child involved in some fun and meaningful activities — consider a summer camp!

Make a movie this summer with the Film and Acting Summer Camps at the Compass College of Cinematic Arts in Grand Rapids! Learn from professionals how to act on camera and make films when the camp runs from June 18th to 22nd for ages 13 to 18. Film Camp students will write, shoot, and edit your own short film with guidance from seasoned filmmakers. In Acting Camp, you’ll learn on-camera acting techniques with a film actor as your coach and then star in a film produced by Film Camp. At the end of the week, walk the red carpet at the film’s premiere for family and friends on the big screen!

The Downtown Market in Grand Rapids has three-day and four-day summer camps for the young foodie in your life. Each camp has a distinct theme, ranging from Michigan’s fruits and vegetables to creating and utilizing a backyard farm. Sign up today for what Downtown Market cleverly calls their “Simmer Camps”!

Tiny dancers at the Grand Rapids Ballet dance camp (photo courtesy of GR Ballet)

The Grand Rapids Ballet has a variety of camps that are all centered around dance. Their Ballet School has programs for ballet, young dancers, boys ballet, and summer intensive training. They also have two Adaptive Dance programs: Explorer Dance (for children with Down syndrome) and Dancing with Parkinson’s (for adults with Parkinson’s disease). These Adaptive Dance classes allow students to experience the joy of dancing who may otherwise not have the opportunity to do so. Summer camps at the Grand Rapids Ballet are both fun and accessible for everyone!

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre has summer camps that give students the chance to spend an entire week learning about theatre while having a blast making new friends. They’ve made some fantastic additions to their extremely popular summer camp program this year, so you’ll want to take a look at their new offerings for the season. Camps range from age 4 all the way through high school!

Summer fun happens at the Grand Rapids Public Museum! Join them and explore the wonders of science, history, culture, art, and fun! For nine weeks this summer, kids ages 4 to 14 can use the museum as a learning lab, experimenting and growing, all while having a great time in one of the area’s most history-rich and “cool” environments.

At The Critter Barn (photo courtesy of Critter Barn)

The Critter Barn in Zeeland offers a one-of-a-kind Critter Camp class for students who are eager to engage in animal care. Work through the entire farm with the barn’s staff and return to volunteer throughout the entire year. These camps are available for ages 8 to 15.

Does gardening contribute to daily physical activity recommendations?

May 1, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Livinggardening, Landscaping, Michigan State University Extension, Physical fitness, Tyler BeckerJoanne

Explore the different ways that gardening activities can help you meet daily physical activity recommendations.

By Tyler Becker, Michigan State University Extension

It’s that time of year again. Gardening and landscaping season is upon us. Time to go into the shed and dust off your shovel and go down to your local hardware store to get prepped for growing season. You may be excited to start gardening, but at the same time, maybe you are reluctant because you remembered how sore your muscles were from your first day last year. If you are one of these people, you will not be surprised to hear that gardening activities count towards physical activity recommendations.

Heavy gardening activities can strengthen your body.

Gardening and landscaping provide numerous physical and mental benefits. One physical benefit of gardening and landscaping is that you burn calories. This could contribute to weight management by helping you use up some of the energy from the food you consume. The amount of calories used depends on the activity, intensity and duration.

You may already think of gardening as a physical activity, one that provides cardiovascular or aerobic exercise for your body, but did you know that some gardening activities can contribute to the muscle- and bone-strengthening guidelines?

Gardening can help strengthen your body

Heavy gardening, which requires you to use a lot of your muscles can help with overall strengthening. Think of bending down to pick up something heavy, digging holes or making a paver wall. Overall, the type of activity and intensity is key. The activity has to be more strenuous than simply bending down to pick up a dropped glove; think of picking up pavers or a bag of mulch. Strive for an intensity in which you are sweating and may not be able to keep a conversation going with someone. Some other activities that may count towards muscle- and bone-strengthening, including shoveling, raking and pushing a wheelbarrow.

Modify gardening and landscaping activities to exercise your whole body

One easy way to include additional musculature (exercise different muscles) during gardening is to switch hands periodically when doing tasks like raking or shoveling. Another method is to change the activity you do every 15 to 30 minutes. An example could be pulling weeds for 15 minutes and then switching to dumping bags of mulch around your trees or bushes. It is likely you already have a rhythm down, but simply going from one activity to another in this way, can incorporate more musculature and increase the number of calories burned. Plus, this approach can break up the monotony of performing the same activity over and over again.

Tips for reducing pain and soreness.

Do you avoid gardening because it makes you feel too sore? There are a number of ways to prevent or even alleviate pain while gardening and landscaping. First, always use proper form during activity regardless of what it is. Moving with proper form helps you avoid pain and injury. For example, if you are picking something up from the ground, keep your shoulder blades back and down, and bend and lift with your knees, not your back.

Always listen to your body. If you “overdid it” one day, you probably should take it slow the next day. Also, there are a number of garden tools available that can help alleviate any potential or existing pain. Your local hardware store may have gloves and garden utensils designed for those with arthritis-related issues. Using garden tools as simple as knee pads or foam pads can help lessen any potential knee pain. You should also take breaks here and there while gardening just as you would if at the gym. Try sitting down for five minutes and rehydrating with water. Lastly, be sure to stretch after gardening. This can help not only improve/maintain flexibility but improve muscle recovery too.

Remember, if you do not currently garden or landscape, start slow and ease into it; especially if you are focusing on using it to contribute to daily physical activity recommendations, including muscle- and bone-strengthening exercise.

Michigan State University Extension has a number of resources including the Master Gardener Program for those considering gardening, and those who have been gardening for a while.

5 Local Things You Need to Know: For the weekend, to start next week

April 27, 2018City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local History, RecreationWKTV 5 ThingsJoanne

Wyoming’s annual Spring Carnival will open this weekend at Lamar Park. (Supplied)

WKTV Staff

Wyoming: City’s family-friendly Spring Carnival at Lamar Park opens

It’s time to celebrate spring as the City of Wyoming hosts its annual spring carnival at Lamar Park, with the carnival opening on Friday, April 27 and running through Sunday, May 6, at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. Carnival times are Monday through Thursday from 4-8:30 p.m.; Fridays from 2-8:30 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 8:30 p.m.

The carnival will feature entertainment for all ages, including games, prizes, and carnival fare favorites. Proceeds from the carnival support City of Wyoming parks and recreation services and the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance or GWCRA.

Kentwood: Police department’s Drug Take Back day planned for Saturday

The Kentwood Police Department will be part of a region wide Drug Take Back day Saturday. (Supplied)

The Kentwood Police Department also will be offering Drug Take Back services Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at its department offices, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. Only pills or patches will be accepted at this location.

Those looking to get rid of sharps — the term for medical devices with sharp points or edges that can puncture or cut skin such as needles — should contact the Kent County Health Department about the Sharps program.

Kentwood’s event is part of a region-wide; for the full story, click here.

WKTV sports: Golden Gloves boxing, high school ball games, available

WKTV will rebroadcast its coverage Michigan Golden Gloves state finals this weekend. (WKTV)

If you are fans of local Golden Gloves boxing, WKTV will rebroadcast its coverage of this week’s action on Saturday, April 28, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.

But if you are more in the mood for something outdoors, we have your schedule of local high school baseball and softball action around the Wyoming and Kentwood area.

Grand Rapids: GRPM hosts annual cocktails and collections event

Grand Rapids Public Museum will host Collections & Cocktails May 2. (Supplied)

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) will once again host Collections & Cocktails, a new annual fundraiser focusing on the museum’s collections, their stories and the preservation and education with these artifacts, on Wednesday, May 2.

This year, Collections & Cocktails will focus on the museum’s transportation collection, featuring dinner and signature cocktails to go along with the exciting stories of artifacts such as Grand Rapids’ own 1949 Herpolsheimer Child Passenger Train, the Austin Model 60, and a 1913 Indian Model E Motorcycle.

Lake Michigan: MSU study looks at recreation, climate change on lakeshore

According to scientists and some users, Lake Michigan is seeing an impact from global warming. (Supplied)

Coastal communities and sensitive coastal ecosystems experience a variety of weather-related impacts that are influenced by changing climatic conditions, but Michigan State University researchers have found that Michigan residents’ opinions about climate change vary for many reasons.

For example, the authors found that greater involvement in outdoor recreation activities, higher levels of education, and lower levels of income were key factors. And, males and older individuals tended to be more dismissive of or disengaged with climate change than their counterparts.

5 Local Things You Need to Know: Headlines for the weekend

April 20, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Recycling, Upcoming EventsAnia Powell, Community Clean-Up Day, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Record Store Day, Tree Amigos, Water's Extreme JourneyJoanne

Wyoming: Community Clean-Up Day Saturday

One of the events the City of Wyoming hosts is its annual Community Clean-Up Day.

The City of Wyoming, through the support of the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, will have its annual Community Clean-Up Day Saturday at Grand Rapids First, 2100 44th St. SW.

The site will be open form 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Residents need to have a picture ID with them or proof of residency. Residents will enter east off of 44th Street to the northeast entrance of the church. For the full store, click here.

Wyoming: Flamingo Avenue to get trees

Mayor Jack Poll reads a proclamation at last year’s Arbor Day event.

This Saturday, the Tree Amigos and student volunteers will plant 24 street trees in the City of Wyoming. Planting will begin 9 a.m. in the 4200 block of Flamingo Avenue SW where ten Wyoming residents have signed up for the project. For more on this story, click here.

Kentwood: EK student makes her stage debut

East Kentwood student Ania Powell makes her Civic Theatre debut with “Akeelah and the Bee.”

Ania Powell makes her Grand Rapids Civic Theatre debut in “Akeehal and the Bee,” which opens on Friday and runs through April 29 at the Civic Theatre, 30 N. Division Ave. For more on the story, click here.

Wyoming and Kentwood: Record Store Day is Saturday

This Saturday, April 21, is the annual Record Store Day in the Grand Rapids area and, quite literally, around the world. It is a day to celebrate small music stores but also to celebrate records — music on vinyl. For more on the story, click here.

Public Museum: “Water’s Extreme Journey” coming to a close

Water’s Extreme Journey is open now at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) taking visitors on a quest for clean water through an experiential maze! But the exhibit is only open through April 29. For more on this story, click here.

Celebrate the Earth with Blandford’s annual FREE Earth Day Celebration!

April 17, 20183-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming EventsBlandford Nature Center, Earth Day, hiking, WildlifeJoanne

By Blandford Nature Center

Sunday, April 22nd marks nearly 50 years since the first-ever Earth Day around the world, highlighting the importance of caring for our home planet through environmental activism. Commemorate the occasion during our annual Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 21st from 12-3 pm at Blandford Nature Center located at 1715 Hillburn Ave NW, Grand Rapids MI 49504. It is also the 50th Anniversary of Blandford Nature Center — what better way to rejoice at 50 years of getting people outdoors than with FREE general admission in the Mary Jane Dockeray Visitor Center.

In addition to free admission for the entire day, visitors will have the opportunity to explore all of the trails and check out the wildlife ambassadors, such as Baby the Barred Owl and Opal the Opossum in the Wildlife Education Center. Guests can take interpretive tours of the historical buildings including the one-room schoolhouse and log cabin or even partake in volunteer opportunities during an AM shift from 9 am to 12 pm and a PM shift from 1-3 pm. There will also be booths and vendors on-site from community organizations with a plethora of games and activities for families to participate in.

“Earth Day is a chance to show the community all that Blandford has to offer for free while showing our appreciation for the Earth through stewardship,” said Renee Baker, Community Programs Manager.

There will also be booths and vendors on-site from community organizations with a plethora of games and activities for families to participate in.

The event is open to the public with free admission for all ages. Tickets and pre-registration are not required for entry. Please go to blandfordnaturecenter.org/event/earth-day-celebration/ for details.

Blandford Nature Center’s mission is to engage and empower our community through enriching experiences in nature. This is accomplished through: an active outdoor environmental lab, a team of passionate, knowledgeable people and a strong link from past to future promoting sustainability. Blandford offers a wide variety of educational and community programs to support this mission. For more information, please visit www.blandfordnaturecenter.org. Blandford Nature Center is a registered, charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

GVSU will host 20th annual pow wow April 7-8

April 4, 20183-bottom, Community Health, Education, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local History, Upcoming EventsGrand Valley State University, pow wowJoanne

The 20th annual Celebrating All Walks of Life Traditional Pow Wow will be at GVSU’s Fieldhouse on the Allendale campus. (Supplied)

Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University will host a series of events to celebrate, and learn about, Native American traditions and culture through dance and song on Saturday and Sunday, April 7-8 at GVSU’s Allendale campus.

The 20th annual Celebrating All Walks of Life Traditional Pow Wow will take place in the Fieldhouse on the Allendale campus. Hundreds of people are expected to attend, including many traveling from Native American communities in the Upper Peninsula and Great Lakes region.

The event will celebrate traditional Native American dancing and music with Grand Entry performances at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., on April 7, and at noon on April 8. Doors open at 11 a.m., both days. There will be Native American handmade crafts and food vendors, as well as a silent auction to raise funds for Grand Valley’s Native American Student Association.

This year, the co-coordinator of the first Grand Valley pow wow will attend the celebration. Scott Herron, a Grand Valley alumnus and biology professor at Ferris State University, coordinated the first pow wow in 1998.

The celebration is free, family friendly and open to the public. It is sponsored by the Native American Student Association, Office of Multicultural Affairs and Division of Inclusion and Equity at Grand Valley.

For more information, visit gvsu.edu/oma/powwow or contact NASA at gvsu_nasa@yahoo.com or the Office of Multicultural Affairs at 616-331-2177.

Balancing public use, open-space, Wyoming City Council approves new Gezon Park master plan

April 3, 20183-bottom, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Kids Activities, RecreationCity of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, Gezon ParkJoanne

There will still be plenty of undeveloped hiking and biking areas in the interior of Gezon Park under a new park master plan. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris