LANSING — Michigan is encouraging counties to consider giving their trash a new life, offering up to $12,000 in grants to those interested in treating it as a resource.
The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy recently announced the grants for counties interested in converting outdated solid waste management plans into materials management plans that treat waste as a resource.
Solid waste management plans make sure you have a place to throw your trash. But the future materials management plans look at how you manage materials as a whole, said Christina Miller, a solid waste planning specialist for the department’s Materials Management Division.
Darwin Baas, who has been on the WKTV Journal, said there is value left in materials that are currently put in the ground. (WKTV)
“Can you recycle that material? Can you maybe send it through an anaerobic digester or a compost facility? What’s the best way to utilize that material at its highest, best use?” Miller said.
State policy over the last three decades was directed toward ensuring landfills had the disposal capacity for waste, said Darwin Baas, the director of the Kent County Department of Public Works.
Materials management is a community decision that says everything you place in a dumpster or trash cart has value, Baas said.
There’s value left in materials from a variety of viewpoints, including land use and economic development, Baas said. We can do better than discarding those materials and burying them in the ground where we lose all value, he said.
Michigan’s county waste standards have not been updated since the late 1990s. Because these plans haven’t been updated in so long, counties throughout the state have lost staff with the institutional knowledge to understand solid waste planning, Miller said.
In the past, counties had to have solid waste management committees to prepare and implement waste management plans. While some counties still have active committees, there are many that lack those officials, Miller said.
This grant requires counties to consider collaborating, she said. Those that do will receive $12,000 each. Counties that work alone receive $10,000.
The state wants counties to look at challenges and opportunities to grow materials management, Miller said. They can also consider creating programs to feed into existing or new infrastructure.
“Hopefully it will help engage those discussions and make them start thinking about ‘Well, I have yard clippings in my township but nowhere to really send it. Where do we send that material?’ Is that an issue that we have regionally and maybe it makes sense to create a compost facility that (counties) can utilize together,” Miller said.
Even communities without the infrastructure for materials management can provide a jumping off point. (sphere.com)
Even communities without the infrastructure for materials management can provide a jumping off point, Miller said.
The department hopes to prepare for the transition if a pending package of waste management standards is enacted by the Legislature, Miller said.
Some counties have already begun adopting materials management strategies. The Kent County Department of Public Works resolved to divert 90% of its landfill waste by 2030. The county and neighboring Allegan County say they hope to build a sustainable business park on land that was purchased for use as a landfill.
When you build a landfill you have lost the opportunity to use that land for agriculture, manufacturing or other types of developments, Baas said.
The county plans a mixed waste processing facility with a system to turn organic waste into natural gas and fertilizer.
“You are now creating a renewable natural gas, putting that into the grid, generating a fertilizer. Why wouldn’t you?” Baas said.
Another plan is to make roofing boards from plastic film and waste paper that otherwise has virtually no value, Baas said.
“This is going to be a new way of thinking where people go ‘Really, you can manufacture a product from this material?’
“Yeah, you can.”
“Every 1,000 square feet of roof cover board that’s manufactured, 2,000 pounds of material is diverted from the landfill,” he said.
Information on grant applications and requirements can be found at Michigan.gov/EGLEM3.
From left to right, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. Chamber member Kathy Bates and Chamber President Bob O’Callaghan at one of the candidate forums hosted by the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce . (Supplied)
By Sheila McGrath WKTV Community Writer
Nine years after taking the helm of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, Bob O’Callaghan is ready to let someone else steer the ship. He plans to retire at the end of this year.
As president and CEO of the chamber, it’s O’Callaghan’s job to help businesses in Kentwood and Wyoming grow stronger.
“I get asked once a week, ‘What do you do? What is your job?’” he said. “I’m a connector. I connect businesses to other businesses to help them grow, and give them a chance to do more business.”
Bob O’Callaghan helping to promote the 28th Street Metro Cruise which expanded to Woodland Mall in 2021. (WKTV)
More than 400 businesses are members of the chamber, and most of them – around 70 percent in recent years – are actively involved. Those businesses have representatives serving on committees and offering volunteers to staff the chamber’s many events.
As he looks back on his years of service, O’Callaghan says the group’s community involvement is his proudest achievement.
“We look at ourselves as a community chamber,” he said. “Some of our events, like the 28th Street Metro Cruise, the Santa parade, and the Government Matters meetings … are really huge because it gives exposure to the chamber and gets information out that’s sometimes not out to the general public.”
O’Callaghan has been involved with the chamber in some capacity for three decades. Prior to leading the group, he served on various committees and on the board of directors. In nearly 30 years with the chamber, he has seen both Kentwood and Wyoming become much more diverse cities. And he witnessed those cities go through bad times and good.
Chef Joseff VanHorn with Bob O’Callaghan who has been a champion to local businesses for 30 years, 9 as the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s president/CEO. (WKTV)
During the Great Recession of 2007-2009, Wyoming saw the General Motors plant on 36th Street, the Studio 28 movie theater and Classic Chevrolet, one of the biggest Chevrolet dealers in Michigan, close within three weeks of each other.
“Everyone was down in the mouth and asking ‘Are we ever going to come back,’” he said. “To see that devastation and to see how we’ve come back – COVID has been a kick in the rear again, but before that, everything was going well. There weren’t a lot of empty buildings available, people had staff, the economy was good. So it was nice to see that come back, and I think it will again. COVID is just a temporary setback on the business community.”
He acknowledges that businesses everywhere are struggling now with lack of staff due to COVID. He hopes some of the biggest businesses in the area, like Metro Health, Lacks and Steelcase, might be on the leading edge of finding new ways to attract and retain employees.
“They are going to have to change the way they operate in regards to employment, and the bigger companies will be leading the way to take us forward,” he said. “Once we get over this shortage of people – however we do that – I think you’ll see some changes in how things are done.”
O’Callaghan said more than 70 people, who are hoping to serve as his replacement, have already been interviewed, and the final candidates will be narrowed down after Thanksgiving.
His last official event will be the chamber’s annual meeting on Jan. 28.
At the Santa Parade, which this year will be Saturday, Dec. 11, Bob O’Callaghan would often ride in the vehicle that pulls Santa. (WKTV)
“It’s kind of a great way to go out,” he said.
But before that, he’ll have one last Santa parade – one of his favorite chamber events – to participate in. The parade is set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 11, and runs down South Division Avenue from 33rd Street to 44th Street.
“I have been fortunate enough to ride in the vehicle that pulls Santa. Nobody sees me, of course, but I would see the kids waving, and mom and dad smiling and taking pictures. That’s a really good feeling when you see that happening. We’re doing something in our community that’s needed,” he said. “There are years I come back and I don’t feel my feet are touching the ground.”
Jonathan Jelks, left and Willie ‘Willie The Kid’ Jackson, right, are throwing a party downtown Grand Rapids on November 13. “The Taste of Black Spirits” will be held at City Flats Hotel, and will feature Black owned beverage based businesses, with plenty of drinks to taste and try. (Courtesy Image)
Looking to break out of the box, or the bottle? The Taste of Black Spirits event that happened this past weekend expanded people’s tasting horizons, while also celebrating minority owned beverage companies. Hosted by two Grand Rapids-based entrepreneurs, this event is just one part of their vision to diversify West Michigan.
“The event is a fantastic way to spotlight, support and celebrate black owned brands in the market that people may not know exist,” said Nayana Ferguson, owner of Anteel Tequila, one of the Black-owned vendors that was at the Taste of Black Spirits which was held at the City Flats Hotel on Saturday.
The event had been put together by Jonathon Jelks and his business partner Willie “Willie the Kid” Jackson. Together with their company GR USA, a merchandising entity, as well as Lazar Favors, a Detroit-based marketing company, they pulled together about two dozen minority-owned beverage businesses for the one-day only event.
Jelks and Jackson participated in a similar event in Detroit, and were inspired to bring the energy and vibe back to their hometown of Grand Rapids.
“I’m from Southeast Grand Rapids, so this area is near and dear to my heart,” said Jelks during an interview. “Being here in the ‘Rust Belt’ as they call it, and I’m proud to be part of the transformation.” The duo founded their own spirits company, Motu Viget, in 2019. They currently have three products in the market: Motu Viget Brut, Eye Candy, and Avani Supreme Vodka, with more than 200 placements in the Michigan market, which includes 70 Meijer stores.
For Jelks, it’s important to pass on both his knowledge and his success. “With us having our own spirits company, and having some traction and some success, we wanted to bring some of that to others,” he said. “We wanted to make sure that the small businesses could make the proper connections, and succeed as well. We are in a unique position to do this”.
Jelks’ background is in ‘serial entrepreneurship’. “Anything where I see there is a niche and we can contribute and service the community, those are the kind of things that float my boat,” he explained.
“We felt that the next thing that is going to help Grand Rapids become a world class community is by creating culture. Bars are a big part of that, live entertainment venues are a part of that.”
In addition to the Nov. 13 event, the duo has a whole host of other developments in the works.
Ambiance GR Kitchen & Lounge, which will be located in the former Raggs to Riches space, should open by the end of 2021. “Ambiance will have live entertainment, events, and will have a kitchen component to it. We’ll be serving American and Cajun dishes, something unique for the restaurant ecosystem downtown Grand Rapids. We are super excited for Ambiance, everyone has been anticipating it, and we are really ready to share it with the community.”
Sip Coffee and Cocktails in Grand Rapids on Alger and Eastern is yet another place that they’ve invested in, along with other partners. This spot is a coffee shop/bar hybrid, and a spot that will welcome all, no matter the time of day.
The duo’s entrepreneurial spirit isn’t limited to just Grand Rapids, they also have two bars in the works in Muskegon. The Motu Lakeshore Wine Bar, named after their spirits company, and Prohibition, an event space, will both be housed in the same building right downtown on 8th Street and should open in the next year.
With no restaurant experience, it’s been a bit of a learning curve for Jelks. Coming out of the pandemic, he’s getting a baptism by fire into the industry. “Labor costs, hiring the right staff, staffing the kitchen is really brutal right now,” he said. “So many people just don’t want to be in the industry anymore, or feel underwhelmed by the pay, and where things are at. There’s a lot of things the industry has to address, and those of us who are invested in the industry are learning to navigate those things.”
Jelks clearly has a bigger vision than just owning a bar or two. And not that owning and operating those alone aren’t a big deal. He’s thinking all the time about Grand Rapids as a whole, and that is what sets him apart. “I look at how some people in Grand Rapids have built big businesses, being very forward thinking, by diversifying our economy,” he said. “Our city has done a great job in figuring out how to problem solve, and keep people gainfully employed. As small business owners, you just want to continue to add to that DNA, add to that fabric, and create more opportunities. Despite the fact that we have one of the fastest growing cities here in the country, when it comes to black and brown folks, our ratings aren’t so high. There was a Forbes article that came out about 4-5 years ago that rated Grand Rapids as one of the worst cities economically for African Americans. One of the ways we can change these social inequities is through entrepreneurship. That’s very important. We want to not only create businesses where we’ll make money and be successful, but also where we’ll create that pipeline for other entrepreneurs and other folks that can be in leadership in Grand Rapids and Muskegon.”
Anteel Tequila (Courtesy Image)
One of the vendors that was at the Taste of Black Spirits was Anteel Tequila, a Michigan-based spirits company. “Anteel Tequila launched in August of 2018 only in Michigan, our home state and since then Anteel has won over 27 awards, expanded to 8 states, the Caribbean and received global attention for our world’s only Coconut Lime Blanco Tequila,” said owner Ferguson. “We have three additional expressions besides Anteel Coconut Lime that includes a Blanco, Reposado and a limited release Tarocco Blood Orange Blanco Tequila”.
“I think it’s slow, but I’m new to the spirits industry, but I’m having my eyes open to the business,” said Jelks. “It’s like having an epiphany. There are so many different avenues on how to make money in this industry. But also how to have a good time, how to curate. And once you have an internal knowledge of how the spirits industry works, you will find some kind of opportunity. And we just want to encourage people to do so. Knowing what is out there is half the battle.”
“The Black community is not only asking for more Black ownership, but they are also looking for the avenues to gain traction with.” Mainstream following is the key to success, Jelks emphasized. “It’s our job as Black pioneers to make a way to put a magnifying glass on it, so everyone can see clearly that this is happening. That this transformation is on.”
Jelks doesn’t mince words. “Grand Rapids is suffering from a diversity problem,” he said. “Culturally, we need more events downtown that are culturally led. That is what makes you into a diverse, world class city that is a magnet for attraction and retention, in 2021.
What could young entrepreneurs of color do to move their vision forward? According to Jelks, “Utilize the tools and resources you have in front of you, study up on the position that you want to be in. There is a glamor side to having your own alcohol, but there is so much work. This is one of the more archaic businesses that is still around.” He stressed how hands-on this business is, and that it really isn’t too far off from Prohibition with many of the rules and regulations. “Relationships still mean a lot,” he stressed.
“The industry can be difficult to navigate in for emerging brands without immense marketing budgets,” said Ferguson. “Events like [The Taste of Black Spirits] allow brands to get in front of the masses in a fun, educational manner, allowing us to grow our audience.”
Events like this allow all of us to expand our range of what we taste and experience.
“We’re having the time of our lives doing this,” said Jelks. “We’re busy,”
LANSING — Some lawmakers and environmental advocates want to ban chemicals in food packaging that they say threatens the health of Michiganders.
PFAS, bisphenols and phthalates can be found in almost every food package — from burger wrappers to bottles for drinks.
The chemicals include per- and polyfluorinated substances or PFAS, a large group of chemicals that has been used globally since the 1940s to manufacture “products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. PFAS chemicals are so effective that they’re used in many industries, including food packaging.
A bill that would ban these chemicals from food packaging has been introduced in the Michigan Senate.
Other troublesome chemicals identified in the proposed ban are bisphenols and phthalates. Bisphenols are used to line cans and phthalates are commonly used in plastic food packaging to add flexibility, Courtney Carignan, an assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition of Michigan State University, wrote in an email.
It’s not easy to tell which food package contains these chemicals because there are no labeling requirements for them, Carignan said.
PFAS, bisphenols and phthalates can be found in burger wrappers, french fry bags, canned food, and packages for drinks, according to the Ecology Center, a nonprofit environmental group located in Ann Arbor and Detroit.
Whether these chemicals are released into food depends on the temperature, time of storage and the acidity of food, said Rebecca Meuninck, the deputy director of the Ecology Center.
“Many of these chemicals have been linked to concerning health effects such as infertility, hormone and immune disruption,” Carignan said.
They accumulate in peoples’ bodies, said Sen. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, who sponsored the legislation to ban them. “The more we are exposed to them the worse it’s for our health. People have PFAS in their blood. PFAS lasts for an extremely long period of time, they don’t break down.”
PFAS can cause high cholesterol, decreased immune system response to vaccines and development of certain types of cancer, according to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy.
It’s important to avoid PFAS in packaging not only because it can be released into food, but also because manufacturing this type of packaging and disposing of it pollutes the environment, Meuninck said.
There are alternatives to PFAS, such as bamboo, palm leaf, bio-wax, clay and compostable plastic polylactic acid that usually is made from corn, according to Toxic-Free Future and nonprofit Clean Production Action. Both organizations advocate for safer products and chemicals.
PFAS is a long-standing controversial problem in Michigan.
State officials say that at least 1.9 million people are affected by PFAS and more than 11,000 sites are contaminated by this family of chemicals, according to news accounts. In 2018 and 2019, the state spent $69 million to clean up and address PFAS, according to Bridge Michigan.
One of the state’s largest contamination areas is that in Rockford, where Wolverine, a shoe company founded in the community, was found to have left a 25-mile square wide trail of PFAS contamination from a former tannery factory. Wolverine’s PFAS supplier was the chemical corporation 3M.
People can ask companies like McDonald’s and Burger King to phase PFAS out of packaging, said Rebecca Meuninck, the deputy director of the Ecology Center.
In 2021, 3M sued Michigan to oppose state new limits for PFAS in drinking water, saying that those limits are flawed because they were made in a “rushed and invalid regulatory process,” according to Bridge Michigan.
People can ask companies like McDonald’s and Burger King to phase PFAS out of packaging, Meunick said. Panera and Whole Foods are working to do that now.
It’s absolutely possible for companies to eliminate PFAS and other chemicals from food packaging, Irwin said. “There are many food packaging systems out there that don’t use these chemicals. And Michigan is a major center for packaging innovation and food products.”
This is Irwin’s second attempt to ban the chemicals in packaging. He said, “Legislation hasn’t gotten much traction in the past, but every year we learn more about PFAS.”
This time around, he has the support of the governor who on Oct. 27 issued an executive directive to limit the state’s purchase of products with PFAS.
And the Biden Administration recently announced a plan to “prevent PFAS from being released into the air, drinking systems and food supply.”
Similar bans have taken place in California, Connecticut, Minnesota, Maine, New York, Vermont and Washington.
After a swearing-in ceremony this week, the City of Kentwood has two new commissioners on the City Commission, and welcomed back re-elected Mayor Stephen Kepley, Commissioner At-Large Betsy Artz, City Clerk Dan Kasunic and City Treasurer Laurie Sheldon.
Clarkston Morgan and Jessica Ann Tyson were sworn in as first-time city commissioners at the City Commission meeting Monday, Nov. 8, following their election Nov. 2. They were joined by the reelected officials, who also took the oath of office for their respective positions.
Morgan is now Ward 1 commissioner representing the western half of Kentwood and Tyson is Ward 2 commissioner representing the eastern half of the city. Each seat is a four-year term.
“We are pleased to welcome Clarkston and Jessica Ann to the City Commission,” Mayor Kepley said in supplied material. “Both are highly engaged, longtime residents who bring excellent leadership skills, business experience and community connections that will be invaluable as the City of Kentwood continues its mission of providing high-quality services to foster a thriving community for all.”
Mayor Kepley and Commissioner Artz each were re-elected for a third four-year term. They were first elected in 2013. Kasunic and Sheldon each were re-elected for a four-year term. Kasunic has served as clerk since 2000 and Sheldon has served as treasurer since 2013.
Meet the new commissioners
Morgan, a city resident since 2007, previously served the City of Kentwood as a planning commissioner, member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and member of the Arts Commission.
Commissioner Clarkston Morgan (City of Kentwood)
As the founder and CEO of Ambassador Consultants LLC, he has established strategic relationships between organizations and corporations that have resulted in mutually beneficial increases in market share and funds to benefit the quality of life for families in the community, according to a city announcement. He has also launched the nonprofit Career Proactiv to empower K-12 and college students to start their own entrepreneurial platform.
In addition, Morgan serves as vice president of the Michigan Chapter of the US Minority Contractors Association and chief operating officer of W4 Construction Group. He also is chairman of the African American Leadership Council for the Christian Alliance For Orphans, working alongside national adoption and foster agencies to empower African American families to adopt children.
Commissioner Jessica Ann Tyson (City of Kentwood)
A two-time governor appointee, Tyson actively serves the community as a member of several boards, including the City of Kentwood Economic Development Corporation, Kentwood Community Foundation and Better Business Bureau of West Michigan, according to the city announcement. She is a past board member of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.
Tyson brings operational business and management experience to her city commissioner role. A multi-business owner, she serves as president and CEO of JA PR Group, Pink Lounge: Dry Salt Therapy, The Beastro (a company offering fresh cuisine for canines) and The Candied Yam, an area restaurant featuring Southern cuisine.
Over the years, Tyson has received many prestigious awards, including being recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women of West Michigan.
In West Michigan and across the country, supply chain problems have resulted in longer lead times, missed deliveries, higher prices and sometimes exorbitant expediting charges, said Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University.
Long surveyed local business leaders and his findings below are based on data collected during the last two weeks of October.
“What seems most worrisome to some of our survey participants is that there is still no end in sight for our supply chain problems. Although these supply chain gremlins are inhibiting the West Michigan economy, modest economic growth continues,” Long said.
Most automotive manufacturers are extremely frustrated by the fact they cannot build or ship most of their cars because of a shortage of $15 worth of computer chips, Long said.
“Throughout the chip crunch, automakers have prioritized output of large pickups, some of the industry’s most profitable vehicles,” he said. “Ford and Ram are among automakers offering zero percent financing for 72 months on large pickups. At the same time, competition in the segment is increasing with a redesigned Toyota Tundra and the industry’s first electric pickup, the Rivian R1T, on the horizon.”
Addressing inflation, Long said the Federal Reserve is still sticking with its theory that the current inflation is “transitory.”
“They won’t say how long before we can expect to ‘transition’ out of the high inflation we are currently experiencing,” he said.
Highlights of Long’s October report:
The Index of Employment remained positive at +24, down from +27.
New orders, or the Index of Business Improvement, rose to +15 from +8.
The Production Index, or output, rebounded sharply to +19, up from -1.
The Index of Purchases eased to +8 from +14.
The Institute for Supply Management survey is a monthly survey of business conditions that includes 45 purchasing managers in the greater Grand Rapids area and 25 in Kalamazoo. The respondents are from the region’s major industrial manufacturers, distributors and industrial service organizations. It is patterned after a nationwide survey conducted by the Institute for Supply Management. Each month, the respondents are asked to rate eight factors as “same,” “up” or “down.”
The City of Kentwood will have two new faces on the City Commission after voting Nov. 2, as Clarkston Morgan won the Ward 1 seat and Jessica Ann Tyson won the Ward 2 seat. But incumbent At-Large commissioner Betsy Artz was returned to the commission in city-wide voting — gaining the most voter support of any candidate running opposed for city positions.
All City of Kentwood seats are for 4-year terms. The returning and new commissioners will be sworn in on Monday, Nov. 8, at the regular City Commission meeting.
With 100 percent of City of Kentwood precincts counted, Artz defeated Leonica Riley Erwin, 4,505 to 2,511, according to final unofficial results supplied by the Kent County Elections Office. Artz was the top voter-getter in the entire city in contested elections, as Mayor Stephen Kepley gained 4,321 votes as he was re-elected to the position.
The city-wide vote total of 7,366 was 18.7 percent of the 39,460 registered voters in the city.
Newly elected City of Kentwood City Commissioner Clarkston Morgan, center, who won the Ward 1 election Nov. 2, talks to supporters at an election-night event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
With 100 percent of their respective ward precincts counted, Morgan defeated Meochia Nochi Thompson in Ward 1, 1,989 to 1,365, in a seat currently held by commissioner Emily Bridson. And Tyson defeated Dan VanderMolen in Ward 2, 2,120 to 1,360, in a seat currently held by commissioner Tom McKelvey.
Running uncontested in City of Kentwood elections were incumbent Treasurer Laurie Sheldon, and incumbent City Clerk Dan Kasunic. Sheldon gained 6,148 votes and Kasunic gained 6,177 in citywide voting.
At-Large Commissioner
Commissioner Artz thanked the Kentwood voters in a statement to WKTV, “I appreciate your support throughout this campaign, and at the polls.
“Our City now has a Commission that will work together to get things done,” she said. “It’s time to continue our work on improving and maintaining our Parks and Trails, providing the best in Public Safety to our community, and budgeting for the future. I am thrilled to be able to serve the City of Kentwood for another four years.”
Riley Erwin, in a statement to WKTV, said “The Kentwood voters have spoken. Congratulations to Betsy Artz and all of those elected last night.
“My campaign had two goals,” she continued. “The first was to increase voter turnout. The second was to increase awareness about issues important to residents that don’t feel empowered. Those goals were accomplished. I look forward to working with our city commissioners and other Kentwood leaders to ensure every resident can reach their full potential. I encourage my supporters to stay involved and continue to communicate their desires for affordable housing, supports for small businesses, and creating a more inclusive community. I would love to see more of you run for office or volunteer on a campaign committee. Participate in community forums and surveys. Make your voice heard.
“Last, I would like to thank my family for all of the love and support they have given me. I couldn’t have made it to the ballot without their encouragement and willingness to make sacrifices with me.”
Ward 1 Commissioner
Morgan addressed all “Kentwood families, business and community leaders,” in a statement to WKTV. “Thank you! I am more than honored to receive your vote of confidence as your City Servant Leader.
“I stand here on the shoulders of great past and present city leaders, but even more, YOU, our Kentwood community,” he said. “It’s our families, businesses, households of faith and community organizations that make our city great. I look forward to seeing Kentwood reach it’s greatest potential by serving WITH our community to provide all residents a better quality of life. God bless.”
Thompson, in a statement to WKTV, said “I am so blessed to have an opportunity to run this race for Commissioner. I thank God for the journey; all the wonderful neighbors I connected with.
“This became more than Community business, it became Kingdom business for me. I was able to teach, preach and encourage along the way. I even had the opportunity to lead someone to salvation. For me, it gets no better than that. I experienced people actually rejoicing because for the first time in a long time, they felt they mattered and were being seen and heard.
“I hope we continue striving toward a more connected Kentwood, where our neighborhood feels more like family and everyone is thriving, healthy and safe! Thank you Kentwood residents for even considering me to represent you. The journey was well worth it.”
Ward 2 Commissioner
Tyson, in a statement t o WKTV, said “The residents of Kentwood have spoken. I am honored and humbled that they took the time to vote for me.
“I look forward to representing Kentwood residents in Ward 2 for the next four years. To others who supported our campaign, I am thankful that you understand how passionate I am about my community. Your contributions proved to be invaluable. I am excited to spend more time listening to and helping our residents and city remain united and strong.”
VanderMolen, in a statement to WKTV, said “I want to express a heartfelt thanks to my family, friends, and supporters for helping make this campaign a reality. It’s truly amazing what people can accomplish when they come together. I also want to congratulate Jessica Ann Tyson on her impressive victory tonight.
“Like I’ve said before, we need to stop looking at politics as a zero sum game and instead realize that while we might have different ideas or priorities, we can all still work towards the same common good. I look forward to partnering with Jessica, and the rest of the city commission, to support the residents of Kentwood in any way I can going forward.”
“Everyone at some time in their life will run to safety.” Dave Stanley
Treasury bonds are issued and backed by the federal government, the full faith and credit of the United States Government. The advantage is safety; the disadvantage is the yield you may earn can be lower than other investment options. The question to ask is simple, is the lesser yield still sufficient for your needs?
US Treasuries are issued in four different categories: Bills, Notes, TIPS, and Bonds.
Treasury Bills (T-Bills) have a maturity date of 1 year or less, and they are short-term by nature. Four options exist for a time duration of investment, 4 weeks, 13 weeks, 26 weeks, and 52 weeks maturity. Treasury Bills do not pay interest. Instead, they are sold at a discount and in denominations of $100. For example, a $1000 T-Bill with a maturity of 52 weeks might sell for $975. At the end of maturity (52 weeks), the owner of the T-Bill would receive $1,000.
Treasury Notes (T-Notes) A T-Note has a more extended maturity time period than T-Bills, 1 year to 10 years. Notes are issued in denominations of $1,000 with interest paid every 6 months. T-Notes are issued with the full face value of the note and not as a discounted face value.
Treasury Bonds (T-Bonds) T-Bonds are issued for a more extended period than T-Notes, 10 years to 30 years to maturity. Bonds are issued at face value, and interest is paid every 6 months. The most popular time period is 30 years.
Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) are US Treasuries issued with an added benefit; they are designed to help offset inflation. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities are issued with 5, 10, and 30-year maturity dates. Interest is paid every 6 months and is a set rate, but additional interest can be paid at maturity based on inflation history.
Regardless of which US Treasury you choose, the safety of the principal is always the underlying benefit.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
With Halloween now past, many see the holiday season upon us, and local vendors and crafters are gearing up to help holiday shoppers with their early shopping needs.
After widespread and disappointing cancellations in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, West Michigan crafters and vendors are excited to announce that they are bringing back their holiday craft shows this fall. And the month of November is filled with must-shop events that not only deliver handcrafted items, tasty treats, and unique gift ideas for local communities, but provide funds and support for many area school programs.
The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters (BCFAB) are especially thankful to be able to host their annual craft show on Nov. 13 at Byron Center High School, as it is the largest fundraiser for their school’s fine arts programs. (For a extensive list of local craft and vendor fairs, see bottom of story.)
“All funds raised will go directly to support our students in the school district,” Kim Kohlhoff, president of Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters, said to WKTV.
All Byron Center public school fine arts programs, grades K-12, are impacted by the success of this fundraiser, Kohlhoff said, and the craft show fundraiser supplements the general budget given to each school to fund the main requirements of the fine arts programs.
The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School supports the schools fine arts programs including the jazz band. (Supplied)
“Funds raised through the annual craft show help support guest artists who come in from all over the nation to teach and perform with our students, as well as help with financial support for those students who take private lessons and attend fine arts camps,” Kohlhoff said.
The ability to provide financial support to students and give them the opportunity to perform with experienced musicians are only a small part in maintaining the Byron Center Fine Arts programs.
Life skills are also a central theme in the Byron Center Fine Arts objective — “Students learn to become a better person and grow as an individual,” said Kohlhoff.
Handcrafted items are always holiday gift worthy, as these from the Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School. (Supplied, from previous year)
This year’s craft show boasts over 200 vendors and something new — food trucks. Instead of the usual concessions, several food trucks will offer a variety of food for shoppers. Stationed outside next to a protected sidewalk, food truck vendors will fill food orders that shoppers can then take into the school cafeteria to eat if desired.
“We have great community support,” Kohlhoff said of the craft show. “Vendor places are highly sought after and we have several veteran (returning) vendors who come every year, often calling the day after the show has ended to apply for a spot in the show for the following year.”
The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters Craft Show will be held on Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame SW, and offers free parking. Admission fee is $3 at the door, with children 12 and under admitted for free.
Additional November craft and vendor events include:
The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School supports the schools fine arts programs including the jazz band. (Supplied)
Three Gatos in Wyoming opened in 2021, and aims to bring a taste of both European culture with a splash of Brazil to the Grand Rapids area. (Amy Sherman | For WKTV Journal)
3 Gatos Brewery owners Linus and Renata De Paoli. (Photo provided by 3 Gatos Brewery, used with permission)
By Amy Sherman WKTV Contributing Writer
Take a lifelong dream, add in some time in Europe, and a hearty dose of Brazilian heritage, and you’ll brew up something awesome in Wyoming, Michigan. 3 Gatos Brewery recently opened, and is offering up something unique to the brewing scene here in West Michigan.
“The good thing here is that everybody is knowledgeable, everybody is passionate,” said 3 Gatos co-owner Linus De Paoli about the beer and brewery scene in West Michigan. He owns the brewery with his wife Renata. “There is great craft beer everywhere.”
Well, we couldn’t agree more.
“We just fell in love with it, with doing it and sharing it with people, and the whole history of beer, we were just drawn to it,” said Linus. “So we asked, could we make a living out of this?”
The couple took the leap, and purchased the former Ktizingen Brewery in Wyoming in 2020, after leaving their corporate jobs with Ford Motor Company.
“We just kept asking ourselves this question,” said Linus about turning brewing from a passion to a livelihood.
Sampler beers come in cute mini glasses at 3 Gatos Brewery in Wyoming. (Amy Sherman | For WKTV Journal)
A classic Kolsch beer carrier can be found at 3 Gatos Brewery in Wyoming. (Amy Sherman | For WKTV Journal)
3 Gatos Brewery is located in the former site of Kitzengen Brewery in Wyoming. (Amy Sherman | For WKTV Journal)
Renata was a huge force in the development of the brewery, explained Linus, as her palate is spot on. She’s also “brutally honest” according to Linus. The couple, who formerly were both engineers, got transferred from their native Brazil to Koln (Cologne) Germany. The beer culture there grabbed their hearts, and through a series of events, they met the former owner of Kitzingen Brewery, and discussed purchasing the brewery. Linus came to visit Grand Rapids in February 2020, right before the pandemic hit. “It’s not the best time of year to visit,” said Linus about coming to GR during the cold weather months.
The brewery endured several pandemic induced delays to opening, but finally welcomed the public into their remodeled Wyoming storefront this past summer. It’s a bright and open space, located in an unassuming strip mall on the busy 44th street corridor. Gone are the heavy German decorations that used to grace the space, in are bright colors, and a simple, slightly modern design.
Linus comes to West Michigan with a ‘world’ of experience, having worked as a brewer’s apprentice in Germany, and eventually taking over the role of head brewer, working to refine both his technique and craft. He now offers a complete range of styles at 3 Gatos, from traditional German brews, to beers that are decidedly much more American.
Renata has helped guide what beers are brewed since the start. “She’s the best quality control I have,” he said. From classic German beers, like the stellar, crisp and clean Kolsch that I sampled, to more unique brews like the raspberry flavored Chartreaux, 3 Gatos offers a little something for everyone.
A staple at many breweries is the “wall of stickers”. 3 Gatos has just started their own. (Amy Sherman | For WKTV Journal)
Another great thing that has developed from their Brazilian heritage plus time in Germany is the food menu that is available here. You can go simple snacking, and just get some of the freshly popped, and lightly salted corn that seems to always be going at the end of the bar. Or, peruse the menu for something more substantial, and decidedly Brazilian in flavor.
Try the Torta de Palmito, a popular, and unexpected offering, that is a pie made with hearts of palm, tomatoes and corn. Sandwiches are interesting, with a Mortadela made in the Sao Paulo style, or a Linguica featuring Brazilian sausage on a specially made Brazilian style roll baked just for 3 Gatos by Nantucket Bakery.
You can also grab brewery favorites like a soft pretzel with beer cheese, or an American style hamburger here.
3 Gatos “has been a dream of my wife and I” said Linus. “It’s been our dream for some years, since we started homebrewing.” I asked if his homebrew was really that good in the beginning. He replied “If I had to go back, I would probably not serve it to people. Some of the first ones, no, definitely not.”
They offer an amazing array of styles at 3 Gatos, using about 5 different yeast strains to brew their beers.
We joked about how being a brewer is really actually being a janitor, since so much of the job is about sanitation. “Totally,” Linus said. “If you look at my mug club mug, mine actually says ‘janitor’ on it. Brewing work is actually 99.5% cleaning.”
Linus is happy that he doesn’t have to explain certain beer styles to his mostly West Michgian clientele. “They’re knowledgeable about beer. I don’t have to describe to every person who walks in our bar what an IPA is, which was kind of the case in Germany. I’d bring beers I was brewing at the brewery in Germany to friends and they would ask, what’s this eeee-pa? Eeee-pa?”
“They know a lot about German-style beer, but not about what is coming from the outside,” Linus explained about the current brewing scene in Germany. “It’s hard to convince them to try something new.”
“There’s a small craft beer movement now,” in Germany, Linus said. “It’s gaining traction, with young consumers who are more aware of what’s happening outside of the country, and who are more curious to try different things. It’s a slow change that is happening over there.”
Not so here in Michigan. Linus has been impressed with our ability and interest in embracing the new. “That’s the good thing about the new world, we don’t have 1,500 years of tradition,” he said. “We can just go crazy and try everything, fusion, different types of food, different types of beer, and just get crazy with it.”
They are always popping fresh corn at 3 Gatos Brewery in Wyoming, a nice little snack to enjoy with one of their hand crafted beers. (Amy Sherman | For WKTV Journal)
A staple at many breweries is the “wall of stickers”. 3 Gatos has just started their own. (Amy Sherman | For WKTV Journal)
“I think it’s great,” said Beth Legate, a first time 3 Gatos customer, that I met at the bar during my visit. “They’ve really held onto some of the old German side of things. And I’m ok with German-style beers, but they’ve also introduced a variety now. I enjoyed it when I visited before, but now it’s even better.”
And while the space was friendly before, “it’s even friendlier now” said Legate, as she sipped a pint of Main Coon, a New England IPA from the brewery. She lives right nearby in Grandville, and had to give a shout out to her neighborhood brewery Osgood’s, where she has a mug club membership. “That’s my jam,” she said with a smile. She recommended Osgood’s pickle pizza, when you are not visiting 3 Gatos.
The biggest surprise of my interview was the fact that Linus is a proponent of the three tier distribution system here in Michigan…..which you don’t normally hear. While he’s not a big fan of all of the regulations around the sale of alcohol across the state, he does like that the system gives a little more power back to the little guys, as opposed to how things work in Europe. “There are positives,” Linus said about the system. “A bigger brewery cannot abuse its economic power to push beer to the detriment of the smaller breweries.”
Part of the draw to opening a brewery in a foriegn country was specifically the welcoming atmosphere of the West Michigan brewing scene. Beer City USA has done a great job of making these newbies feel welcome, according to Linus.
“Linus and Renata are wonderful people and they’ve done a lovely job of learning quickly and collaborating in the community,” said David Ringler, owner of Cedar Springs Brewing Company. “I think their Brazilian and European dual theme will serve them very well and we look forward to a “collaboration brew” on Bridge Street in the future.” Ringler recently took delivery for new brewing equipment for his new brewery location on the West Side of Grand Rapids, which will hopefully open in 2022 and will be called Kusterer Brauhaus.
Ringler continued, “I wish them the best,.” We can confidently say that all of West Michigan agrees. Good luck to you, 3 Gatos.
“Harry and Sally White are regular people.” Dave Stanley
Harry and Sally happen to work for the same company; actually, that is where they met 30 years ago. Harry runs a forklift in the warehouse on day shift, and Sally works in accounting. They are just regular people working at regular jobs, saving for retirement using their company’s 401(k) as the chosen vehicle. The company they work for is not huge; about 600 employees in several offices scattered around the state. Their company is generous with company contributions to their employee’s 401 (k) retirement account, adding about $2,000 annually to plan participants.
Time to consider retirement has finally arrived, and Harry and Sally asked me to help them roll over their 401(k) to their own self-directed IRA and use an annuity for the income stream. I had known them for several years and was delighted to help while at the same time acquiring a quality client.
Harry had $426,000 accumulated in his 401 (k) and Sally just under $200,000. In previous meetings, I had suggested they begin to make small changes to their asset allocations to help reduce the exposure to risk since retirement was on the horizon.
I was curious about the fees being charged to them for the administration and management of their accounts. The question had been raised at a company employee meeting, and the group was assured by the plan administrator that there were no fees other than the annual $50. Of course, he didn’t happen to mention the expenses charged by the guys managing the money — the mutual fund managers.
Harry had always assured me that there were no fees other than the annual $50 administration fee needed to prepare IRS reports. Of course, I knew there had to be additional fees, but I decided not to press it since I had no actual connection to the 401 (k).
An excellent software piece came to the market a few years back called Brightscopehttps://www.brightscope.com/ This database tracks 401 (k) plans. It discloses actual fees being charged by the investment management of the individual 401 (k) plans around the country. Now I had the tool I needed to take an in-depth look at Harry and Sally’s 401(k) fund management expenses. I confess I could have looked the other way and never said a thing; I acquired a nice client with the rollover. Why not just be quiet and go along?
I couldn’t keep my big mouth closed and gave Harry and Sally the report on their 401 (k) annual expenses being charged to manage their funds. These expenses were in addition to the $50 per year administration fees and were tied to the actual account value of the funds in the 401 (k). 1.27% was the average expense being paid to the fund managers for Harry and Sally to have the privilege of investing their hard-earned money with them. 1.27% per year of their full investment account value.
Just last year alone, these insane expenses were over $8,000. $8,000 out of Harry and Sally’s pocket and into the pocket of these Wall Street bandits.
Now consider how many years these fees had been charged. The total amount paid could easily be greater than the entire 401(k) account belonging to Sally.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) fought long and hard to have these fees disclosed in a more open forum for all 401 (k) investors but to no avail. The Department of Labor has ruled in the financial industries side, and as of now, fees will remain as they always have been buried deep in paperwork none of us can even understand. (prospectus) Harry is a great forklift driver, but he has no chance against this level of thievery.
Simple math can certainly indicate the annual amount of expenses being paid to the money managers at the 401 (k) companies: multiply Harry’s annual expense times the number of employees (600).
Usury and disgusting.
Just think how much more money Harry and Sally would have for their retirement years; now it has gone to increase some Wall Street firm profits, which is probably paying some lobbyist to keep disclosure hidden away. Harry is in an odd way funding his demise — the demise of his account value.
It is time to put an end to these outrageous fees and expenses.
The long-term loss of value hidden behind a 401(k) plan provided to hard-working employees is considerable. Plus, the fund managers still get paid regardless of whether they make or lose money. Their commissions based on total account value.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
“Warren Buffet once pointed out that when you do the math, it is obvious that inflation is far more destructive to wealth than any tax levied on us by the government.” Dave Stanley
It probably hasn’t escaped your notice that consumer prices have gone rogue in 2021. Prices for goods and services are surging at the fastest pace in over ten years, threatening to squeeze households and squelch a potential post-COVID economic recovery. Economists, bankers, and pundits insist that inflation rates reflect pandemic-induced trends and are only temporary. However, many retirees, pre-retirees, and investors are concerned that prices will keep going up, stalling economic growth and causing stocks to plummet. If you are a certain age, you might remember the double-digit inflation of the 1960s and 70s, which reached its’ apex during the Jimmy Carter Administration. Like all inflation, the price hikes were due to several factors, including an oil crisis in the Middle East, excessive government spending, and a slow-acting Federal Reserve.
Inflation is the silent thief of retiree wealth.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to know if our current rising prices are temporary or a sign of things to come. Yet, many economists believe that the diversified, globally integrated US economy is big enough and robust enough to avoid the hyperinflation found in countries such as Zimbabwe.
Still, if you are about to retire, you should maintain vigilance when it comes to inflation. Even if increased inflation lasts only a few years, it can wipe out a significant part of your retirement savings. An annual inflation rate of just 3% seems insignificant. However, at a 3% rate, if you currently have monthly expenses of $4,000, they will be $5,000 a month in just ten years. For this reason, it is critical for those within ten years of retirement to review their plans and adjust for worst-case scenario inflation levels.
Many people fail to realize just how significant the impact of inflation is on their savings. For example, if you own an asset that is bringing in 4% returns with no income tax, and the annual inflation rate is also 4%, that scenario is equivalent to a 100% tax in a time where inflation is at ZERO! If the inflation rate were to go to 5%, and your asset will still making only 4%, you would be paying a tax equivalent to 125%.
Bake inflation protection into your financial blueprint
Inflation is a stealth tax that, although it doesn’t go entirely unnoticed, is not as in-your-face as government-levied taxes. Government tax increases, such as those on income or property, are more readily identified and felt. On the other hand, inflation is like bleeding to death from a thousand tiny pinpricks rather than one gaping wound. Inflation expresses itself as a few cents more for a loaf of bread, a five-cent price increase on coffee, and so forth. Inflation leaves you scratching your head, wondering how your paycheck could vanish so rapidly.
Retirees and those leaving the workforce must partner with their advisors to put some armor around their wealth in a few years. Your savings must be protected as much as possible, or you risk running out of money when you need it most. Your advisor or advisory team may recommend various strategies using things such as certain types of annuities, cash-flowing investments, or even precious metals or cyber currencies.
Depending on your goals and risk tolerance, alternate investment strategies can form a protective barrier against erosive elements, including inflation, sequence of returns risk, and other attacks on your wealth.
The bottom line is: Like an unwelcome house guest, it’s bound to show up when you least expect it, and it will outstay its welcome nearly every time.
Don’t forget to plan for inflation.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
Cedar Springs Brewing will open their new Grand Rapids brewery Kusterer Brauhaus sometime this winter. The renovated storefront lies on the busy Bridge Street corridor on the West Side of Grand Rapids. (Photo provided by Cedar Springs Brewing, used with permission)
By Amy Sherman WKTV Contributing Writer
Originally slated to open in 2019, Cedar Springs Brewing Company’s new location on the West Side of Grand Rapids took delivery of its brewing equipment last week. The Küsterer Brauhaus will continue the brewery’s German theme, with a Bavarian style beer hall planned for a winter 2022 opening. The brewery, owned by David Ringler, will join the bustling West Side Bridge Street corridor, which is quickly turning into somewhat of a brewer’s row. The Brauhaus will join nearby Jolly Pumpkin, New Holland Brewing, and Harmony Hall, which resides directly across the street. To track the brewery’s progress, follow the Facebook page.
A long awaited reopening has finally happened last week. Creston Brewery reopened under new ownership on Oct. 14, with a grand opening planned for Tuesday, Oct. 19. Saugatuck Brewing Company will operate it under the Creston name, and the menu will feature both original Creston brews, and longtime Saugatuck favorites. The brewery anchors a prominent corner in the neighborhood, and is a true local gathering place. Saugatuck Brewery has retained most of the original staff, including head brewer Scott Schultz. This week, look for a limited menu being offered, while on Oct. 19, there will be special happy hour prices to take advantage of.
Bell’s Brewery harvests their own hops from the side yard at their Comstock production brewery. The resulting brew, known as Sideyard, is out on the market now. (Amy Sherman | For WKTV Journal, used with permission)
Bell’s Brewery released its seasonal offering Sideyard on Oct. 8, and the last of this three part series of beers featuring hops grown right at the Comstock brewery came out on Oct. 15. “Using fresh, locally grown hops has a long tradition here at the brewery,” Larry Bell, president and founder of Bell’s said in a press release. Bell’s harvests its hops, and has them added into the beer within 12 hours of picking. First up was Triumph Sideyard, a single hop varietal brew that was only available at the Bell’s General Store and Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo. Sideyard will be bottled, and can be found throughout Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Indiana. Sideyard Crystal is up next, and can only be found in Kalamazoo. These beers using very specific, and very local hops are a source of pride for the brewers at Bell’s. “Being able to do fresh hop beers, it’s just great,” said John Mallett, vice president of operations at Bell’s. “We’re bringing hops from hanging on the wire, to putting them in the kettle in a matter of a couple of hours. You just can’t do that with hops from Germany or Washington.”
Osgood Brewing in Grandville released Breitenstein this week. It’s the brewery’s take on an Oktoberfest brew, and it comes in at 6.1% ABV, and is described by the brewery as slightly sweet, with a toasted malt flavor, with light hops. Try it paired with one of their handcrafted pizzas, they even offer a gluten-free crust made with cauliflower. Or, belly up to one of the arcade games they have here to play, maybe during happy hour, which runs Monday through Friday from 3-6 p.m.
No matter what the Lions record is, Coppercraft Distillery’s new canned cocktail can help you handle it. Honolulu Blue is made in partnership with the Lions, and features blue raspberry and lemonade with vodka. (Photo provided by Coppercraft Distillery, used with permission)
Arvon Brewing released a special, fruity brew on Oct. 14. Breakfast Bowl is a kettle sour made with a whole bunch of berries and a touch of lactose. Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, granola, lactose and vanilla combine into a brightly hued little fruit bomb, balanced out by that nice bright sour punch. You can try it on tap at the bright little brewery located on Division in Grand Rapids, or stop by the brewery to grab a 4-pack of cans.
Coppercraft Distilling just released a special cocktail for all of us who suffer as perennial Detroit Lions fans. Honolulu Blue, a premium canned cocktail brewed up in partnership with our #OnePride friends, pays homage to our Michigan team in both name and color. This limited release is a blue raspberry lemonade cocktail made with Coppercraft’s vodka. You can try the drink at either of Coppercraft’s tasting rooms, in either Holland and Saugatuck. It’s also available in cans at select retailers around the state. Perfect for your next Sunday watch party, and especially great to help drown your sorrows after.
After a modified Trunk or Treat last year, when pandemic precautions allowed only a drive-through event for the Kentwood community, the City of Kentwood is once again inviting trick-or-treaters to don their costumes and come to the city’s Trunk or Treat event Saturday, Oct. 23.
Dress up is encouraged at this year’s Trunk or Treat in Kentwood. (Supplied)
“Trunk or Treat gives families a fun alternative to door-to-door Halloween activities while connecting with community organizations in a more controlled environment,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “It also offers holiday-decor enthusiasts the opportunity to get creative with their trunks. Halloween is such a spirited holiday, and we’re looking forward to seeing all of the costumes and trunks that come out of this year’s event.”
The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE, where 20-plus city and community vehicles will be stationed with decorated trunks filled with candy.
In addition to collecting candy, participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk. Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and face coverings and bring their own bag for collecting candy.
Local businesses and community groups can participate in Trunk or Treat by registering for free online until 4 p.m., Friday, Oct. 15.
The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department will continue to monitor public health guidance and state orders, which may necessitate changes to the event.
“Using inflation as a tool, governments can confiscate, secretly and unobserved, an important part of the wealth of their retirees.” Dave Stanley
You can almost imagine the unrestrained joy politicians felt upon reading John Maynard Keynes‘ words back in the early 1920s. Finally, they had discovered an easy way to finance the government’s wild spending sprees and pork-barrel projects without raising taxes (and losing votes!) Inflation gave governments a powerful yet discrete method of taxation, requiring no approval from the voters. The icing on the cake was that inflation’s consequences were much less detrimental to political careers than making unpopular budget cuts or increasing tax rates. Thus began the era of addiction to the printing press, unrestrained deficit spending, and an increasingly intrusive government.
Where are we today?
The “easy money” inflation genie rocketed out of the bottle with the force of a cork exiting a champagne bottle. No amount of pressure or commonsense economics could push it back inside. Even the Great Depression, funded partly by easy money economics, could not reverse a course of uncontrolled government spending and money printing.
Inflation is a misunderstood concept that threatens your wealth.
Inflation is one of the most misunderstood economic ideas and the source for much of the evaporation of middle-class wealth in the United States. In simple terms, inflation is a measure that determines the rate of rising prices in an economy.
Catalysts of inflation can include
Increases in the costs of raw materials
Wage increases
Poor fiscal management by the government.
Specific government actions are undertaken to jumpstart a lackluster economy, such as the so-called “quantitative easing” pursued by the Federal Reserve a few years ago, which also contributes significantly to rising inflation.
Inflation is the “silent” tax.
Sometimes referred to as the “stealth tax,” inflation is a more significant threat to your financial future than state or local income taxes. Inflation has proven to be particularly problematic for seniors who are retired. That’s because retirees live mainly off the income generated by their retirement accounts, along with Social Security. So, when money loses its purchasing power, the price of necessities increases. Such increases mean that seniors will use up their savings faster, perhaps putting themselves in the position of running out of money early in retirement.
Could we see “billion-dollar” currency denominations?
Disastrous monetary policies such as shameless deficit printing and currency devaluation have existed for the greater part of human history. Unfortunately, though, the United States has taken fiscal irresponsibility to new heights, becoming the most indebted country in world history. Currency turmoil is almost always the outcome of reckless fiscal policy. For example, inflation in the country of Zimbabwe was so high for so long that their entire economic system crashed. This hyper-inflation arose when Zimbabwe’s government responded to the out-of-control national debt, political corruption, and a weak economy by increasing the money supply.
Zimbabwe’s government caused some of the highest inflation in human history. At one point, it took 1.2 QUADRILLION Zimbabwean dollars to equal $4,000 U.S. dollars! Some scholars suggest that if the U.S. continues on its present course, we could experience similar issues.
The bottom line: Inflation is just one of the erosive factors that can undo your best-laid retirement plans and cause you to experience stress and worry when you no longer work. Inflation may be the greatest threat of all because it is little understood and anticipated. If you have a retirement plan in place, now is an excellent time to review that plan with your advisor to ensure you have included provisions to see you through in the event of hyperinflation.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
LANSING — The capacity of family and group child care homes could be slightly increased by state lawmakers, but some critics worry that the change might harm the quality of day care services.
Michigan family child care homes with one adult provider can accept no more than six children. Legislation introduced by Rep. Jack O’Malley, R-Lake Ann, would allow them to take seven. The number that could be looked after by group child care homes with two adult providers would expand from 12 to 14. The legislation is a part of the package aimed at enhancing the state child care system.
Family child care and group care homes are private residences that provide day care. Preschool curriculum is also offered by some of the providers.
“These bills are very, very important because child care in the state is in terrible shape,“ O’Malley said. “Seventy-five percent of children in Michigan live in areas with limited access to child care. In the bigger communities there are more centers, but it is not the case with rural areas, where centers are not that prevalent.”
The bills could improve the state’s employment, he said. “Employers are losing employees who don’t have access to day care. We are helping parents who cannot get a job because they have no place to put their children.”
The legislation could also bring back those providers who had to leave the day care business due to the hardships of the pandemic, he said.
The bills have bipartisan support.
“We do support all of the bills in the package, we are very excited about the bipartisan focus on child care,” said Alex Rossman, the Michigan League for Public Policy communications director. “However, we are a little apprehensive of changing the ratios of child care workers to children.”
His group advocates for a sunset that allows the law to be reevaluated after a period to decide if it should be extended or ended.
The national standard of group sizes in home-based child care is no more than six, Rossman said. That capacity is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association, American Academy of Pediatrics and National Association for the Education of Young Children.
“I think that the bills were introduced in response to some of the challenges that child care providers have during the pandemic,” Rossman said. “So what we are advocating for is the ratio change to be done temporarily, as we are hopeful that the impact of the pandemic both on public health and the economy will be temporary.”
Day care providers say that how many children they can handle depends on their age.
“I do believe that one provider can care for seven children,” said LaTonya Glover, the owner of Bright Beginnings Child Care in Detroit. “However, it really depends on the number of caregivers that are there and the ages of children.”
Others are cautious about the change.
“Asking adults to take care of more children increases the risk of a problem occurring for those children and the adults,” said Lindsey Potter, the vice president of the Childcare Providers Association of Michigan. “When we go from caring for six to seven children, it increases the number of times we are in the restroom with children, or increases the number of food we are making for lunchtime.
“And all of those times are away from direct care for children.”
Although she understands the intent of the legislation, Potter said she prefers to “maintain small group sizes, so that adults and children can be well-respected instead of just adding more work in order to gain more money.”
According to the Michigan League for Public Policy, 44% of the Michigan population lives in child care deserts. That means that there are three times more children ages 0-5 than the number of licensed child care spots.
“This child care package is something we have been working on for several years,” O’Malley said. “We now have got a very nice basic compromise with the governor’s office, with Democratic colleagues in the House and the Senate, so I think we are in a good position.”
Pent-up supply demand has been satisfied causing the West Michigan economic recovery to continue to flatten, said Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University.
Brian Long is a local business forecaster. Credit: GVSU
“Our index of business improvement came in at +8,” said Long. “The pent-up demand has been satisfied, but supply chain constraints are holding back further progress.”
There is no end in sight for the on-going computer chip shortage, said Long, and automotive customers, dealers and manufacturers are all growing increasingly frustrated.
“The auto industry continues to be stymied by the shortage of computer chips, resulting in reduced production schedules affecting local auto suppliers. Some experts believe this crisis could extend for another full year,” he said.
Employers continue to experience a shortage of workers. Long said there are a record number of job postings in West Michigan and across the country. “We have to get people who dropped out of the workforce back to work,” he said.
Highlights of Long’s September report:
The Index of Employment remained positive, and rose to +27 from +19. It would be stronger if there were more people to hire.
Bad news for the widely publicized chip shortage. There is no end in sight for the chip shortage. Tech companies are reluctant to add capacity for the types of chips needed for automotive. Because of the chip shortage, auto sales have fallen to levels last seen in the Great Recession.
The production index has turned slightly negative (-1) for the first time in 14 months.
To attract new employees, about a third of all firms have raised their starting wage. Others are offering signing bonuses to avoid getting locked in to higher wages. Some economists are concerned we could be developing a wage-price spiral leading to cost-push inflation.
The Institute for Supply Management survey is a monthly survey of business conditions that includes 45 purchasing managers in the greater Grand Rapids area and 25 in Kalamazoo. The respondents are from the region’s major industrial manufacturers, distributors and industrial service organizations. It is patterned after a nationwide survey conducted by the Institute for Supply Management. Each month, the respondents are asked to rate eight factors as “same,” “up” or “down.”
“The secret is simple: The longer you live, the longer you live!”
What happens if you live longer than you expect? How do you make sure your funds last as long as you do?
Do you invest in stocks? Bonds? Keep your money in the bank? Increased life expectancy is extending the time needed for our retirement funding, making sure our money lasts as long as we do has become the new “mantra” of the Baby Boomers.
Many financial planners are turning towards products that remove the risk of the longevity problem, allowing an insurance company to bear the longevity risk, annuity companies issue and manage annuity products.
Many types of annuity products are available, even those who pay interest (yield), which are similar in structure to bank CDs. However, the real benefit of annuities is the income provision, income that can pay for any period, even a lifetime.
The question often asked is “What happens to the money in an annuity if a person dies early? Does the annuity company keep the money?”
The answer is no; it is an old wives’ tale that insurance companies profit from an early death. The unused portion of the annuity is merely refunded to the named beneficiary. Funds are always accounted for, and it is the law.
Consider letting an insurance company be responsible for your important long-term safe and secure retirement income. Safety and security is their first and foremost goal.
One last tip: shop around for the best rates; rates can often be based on age, and numerous options exist.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
“Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I’m not sure about the universe.”
Albert Einstein
Pulaski Days is the celebration of Polish/Lithuanian culture held every fall in Grand Rapids since 1973 . (Supplied)
Two words: Pulaski Days
After a year off due to COVID, Pulaski Days returns this weekend with three days packed full of fun. There are eating contests, a Saturday parade, a Sunday mass and of course plenty of food and drink. A total of 14 halls will be open offering an array of activities, food, and souvenirs. For more, check out John D. Gonzalez’s latest story.
Who could resist? (KC Animal Shelter)
Expand the Family
The Bissell Pet Foundation’s fall national “Empty the Shelters” adoption event, running Oct. 4-10, is a quarterly effort that has helped more than 61,787 pets in shelters find their “forever homes” by sponsoring reduced adoption fees for $25 or less. This fall’s event will be hosted in more than 180 shelters in 38 states, including about 11 in West Michigan such as the Kent County Animal Shelter and Crash’s Landing. So this weekend is a perfect time to start looking for that new family addition.
One Last Look
ArtPrize officially closes on Sunday, which means you have a few more days to check out the pieces, including the winners, which will be announced on Friday. There are items both inside and outside. A popular spot has been the Grand Rapids Public Museum, which features a number of outdoor pieces including the one pictured above, or just travel along Monroe Avenue and Monroe Center for some great “eye candy.”
Fun Fact: The Polish/American Hero
Kazimierz Michal Wladyslaw Wiktor Pulaski or Casimir Pulaski, was a Posh nobleman, solider and military commander. After being driven into exile for helping with an uprising in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, Pulaski came to America at the recommendation of Benjamin Franklin. He would help in the American Revolutionary War, first by saving the life of George Washington and second helping to create the American cavalry. Pulaski died in the Battle of Savannah in 1779. He is buried in Monterey Square, Savannah, Georgia. Today, many events and places have been named after this war hero, including Grand Rapids’ Pulaski Days.
The theme of this year’s Pulaski Days. (Pulaski Days Facebook)
By John D. Gonzalez WKTV Contributing Writer
After taking 2020 off because of Covid-19 restrictions, the annual Pulaski Days celebration on the west side of Grand Rapids returns this weekend, Oct. 1-3.
The theme of Pulaski Days 2021 sums it up best:
“Keep Calm and Polka On!”
“We have all experienced some sort of challenge over the past year and a half,” said longtime resident Eddie Sypniewski, a local event promoter and advocate for the west side.
Pulaski Days is the celebration of Polish/Lithuanian culture held every fall in Grand Rapids since 1973 . (Supplied)
“It’s time to step back, take a deep breath and ‘stay calm and polka on!’”
The return of the 49th annual event means a lot to the Polish community, and those who frequent the halls throughout the year. Pulaski Days is a great opportunity to spend the weekend in food, drink and entertainment when 14 halls are open to the public.
What does Sypniewski love most about Pulaski Days?
“I love it all!” he said. “Family, food, music, tradition. The parade and Polka Mass are there for all to participate.”
“The turnout has been amazing, more than even in year’s past,” she said. “I feel like people are anxious to get back out and back into Pulaski Days. The buzz is good. We’re going to have a big turnout this weekend.
Pulaski Days on the west side of Grand Rapids dates back to 1973, and honors Revolutionary War Hero Gen. Casimir Pulaski. Fourteen private halls will be open to the public this weekend featuring Polish food, music, and dancing.
Each hall will have a variety of events. The parade is at 11 a.m. Saturday and runs down Michigan Street starting at College Avenue and ends at Diamond Avenue.
The polka Mass is at 10 a.m. Sunday at Holy Spirit Church.
Polish Halls open to the public Oct. 1-3:
American Legion Post 459 (658 Michigan Ave NE)
Knights of Columbus (1104 Muskegon NW)
Polish Falcons (957 W Fulton)
Polish National Aid Society – Jackson Street Hall (921 Jackson St NW)
Sacred Heart Benevolent Society Eastern Avenue Hall (506 Eastern Ave NE)
Sacred Heart Club – Kosciuszko Hall (935 Park St SW)
Saint Adalberts Aid Society – 5th Street Hall (701 5th Street NW)
Saint Casimir’s – 6th Street Hall (649 6th St NW)
Saint Isidores Aid Society – Diamond Hall, home of the Pulaski Days Monument and Pulaski Square (435 Diamond NE)
Saint Ladislaus Aid Society “Laddies Hall” (58 Lane Ave SW)
Saint Stanislaus – Little Hall (823 Michigan Ave NE)
Saints Peter & Paul Aid Society – Saint Georges (1513 Quarry NW)
Sons & Daughters Club (1057 Hamilton NW)
Vytautas Aid Society (1300 Hamilton Ave NW)
For more information, including a list of events, go to pulaskidays.org.
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’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. 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.
Kent County Land for planned Sustainable Business Park, aerial shot that includes the property adjacent to the landfill, with the landfill in the background. (Supplied/Kent County)
Kent County’s efforts to reduce use of landfills has gained a big vote of support — in the form of a $4 million state allocation — as the county’s Department of Public Works announced this week that its Sustainable Business Park plans will now have initial funding for infrastructure improvements.
The Sustainable Business Park, planned for 250 acres adjacent to the South Kent Landfill in Byron Center, will be built on land that was initially purchased by Kent County to create a new landfill for Kent and Allegan counties. The goal of the park plan is to attract businesses which will lessen landfill use by diverting waste streams.
Trash being dumped at the Kent County landfill. (Supplied/Kent County)
The state funding will go toward infrastructure improvements on the site such as utilities, roads and stormwater to prepare it for initial tenants. The first phase of infrastructure development is estimated to cost $19 million, according to the county.
“The state investment in this important project will vastly reduce Kent County’s landfill usage and contribute to a circular economy, ,” Baas said in supplied material. “Landfills are not the legacy anyone wants to leave for future generations and this investment is an acknowledgement that we’re on the right path toward a more sustainable future.”
The $4 million coming to Kent County is an appropriation in the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) budget. The Michigan Legislature approved a $69.9 billion fiscal year 2022 state budget last week.
“We want to thank our elected leaders,” Baas said, “including state Reps. Thomas Albert, R-Lowell, and Bryan Posthumus, R-Cannon Township, and state Sens. Winnie Brinks, D-Grand Rapids, and Aric Nesbitt, R-Lawton, for their support of this project and moving us closer to our landfill diversion goals.”
Approved in 2018, the Sustainable Business Park Master Plan lays out a vision for transitioning away from landfilling waste in favor of placing value on components of the waste as feedstock for new products or fuel sources, according to the county announcement.
The Master Plan calls for an anchor tenant that will receive the mixed waste currently going to the landfill and separate it for secondary and tertiary tenants to utilize. The state funding will lay the foundation for additional private investment in the entire park.
Just four months after Third Coast Development and Garage Bar & Grill owner and operator Kevin Farhat announced plans to open a Garage Bar & Grill in Ada, the team is now setting their sights on hiring 47 workers to staff the establishment. To help expedite the hiring process, Garage Bar & Grill is hosting open interviews every Saturday in October from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the new location, 518 Ada Drive. Applicants will be interviewed by Farhat and executive chef and general manager Joe Peebles and potentially hired that day or by the end of October.
Garage Bar & Grill is looking for hospitality-minded people to help Garage “run a good party” as its tagline says. Farhat is looking to fill part-time and full-time staff, ranging from dishwashers, cooks, servers, bartenders, and other front-of-house staff. Wages for some positions will start at $15 per hour. Once hired, staff will receive training at the Ottawa Avenue location before starting at the Ada location.
“We take pride in running a good party, and the main ingredients are delicious, never-frozen food, tasty drinks, great prices and amazing customer service,” Farhat said. “We take pride in hiring some great people who want to give each customer a great experience at Garage Bar & Grill, so we’re hopeful there are some cool food service pros around the region that are ready to take the party to Ada!”
Peebles, who Farhat brought on in July to overhaul the menu and manage the Ada location, is eager to open the new location with great staff.
“The new Garage Bar & Grill location will be very inviting to visitors who are looking for a fun atmosphere, great food and drinks and comfortable vibe,” said Peebles in a July news release announcing his arrival. “We would love to staff the new location with people that know how to provide that experience. We offer a high-volume environment, but we try to be low volume on drama!”
It appears this Saturday will be another beautiful day to stroll through the City of Wyoming’s second public market set for 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW.
The first public market was held last Saturday at HŌM Flats with several vendors showcasing items from plants to coffee. Some of those vendors, such as Wyoming-based Runyon Coffee Company and Periwinkle Flower Co., will be returning to this Saturday’s event along with a number of vendors that will be offering an array of items.
Ed Runyon, owner of Runyon Coffee Company, said he plans to be at this Saturday’s public market. (WKTV)
“The City of Wyoming is very excited about its partnership with HŌM Flats and the new public markets,” said Wyoming’s Planning & Economic Development Director Nicoe Hofert.”One of the City’s economic development goals identified in its master plan, Wyoming [re]imagined, is to work with and support local businesses to showcase local talent and support their growth and investment in our community.”
Hofert said events like the HŌM Flats Public Market provide exactly this opportunity, adding that “the City believes these markets create a vibrant environment where people can interact and connect. We hope that these events lead to an expanded market with additional dates next year.”
HŌM Flats approached the city about hosting a public market at its location, 1401 Prairie Parkway SW, with representatives learning that city officials were also looking at a similar idea. According to Jaylyn McCloy with Magnus Capital Partners, which owns HŌM Flats Flats at 28 West, it only made sense for the two organizations to partner.
The result was the two-weekend event. Last Saturday, the market was tucked into the HŌM Flats, with residents strolling through checking out items. Both city and HŌM Flats officials said they were pleased to see the first event launch and building upon it.
I recently read an article about Shaquille O’Neal and his after basketball life that was truly amazing. Did you know in his 19 -year NBA career, he earned a total of $292 million in compensation? He was the highest-paid player over that time period, making enough money for a couple of hundred families to live in complete comfort. With the athlete’s age, we have watched salaries skyrocket to levels we cannot comprehend as just regular folks.
Shaq was one of the all-time greats, and he proved it on and off the basketball floor. Did you know he also starred in movies and had three very successful records with more than 1.3 million copies sales? Shaq became a brand, and he used his celebrity to put in place a money-making machine for his retirement from basketball.
The article mentions his endorsement life: products we know nationally, such as Buick, Icy Hot, Reebok, Zales, Foot Locker, Arizona Tea, and many more. The list includes more than 20 products and companies. His endorsement income is now greater than his salary as a top NBA center, and more to come.
Shaq is booked all day, every day, in a nonstop worldwide promotional endorsement and entertainment tour. In addition to product endorsements, he is also a TV analyst, an international motivational speaker, and a private party DJ. Yes, you can have Shaq come to your house for 2 hours, have him DJ your party for only $50,000.
It was estimated he could earn more than a BILLION dollars in just his endorsement career. Certainly a lot of money and reason to be concerned about how the money is invested and protected to ensure his and his family’s financial security.
In the article, he was asked about the income he is now earning. He said, “I don’t pay any attention to the money. If I lose it all, it is no big deal, myself and my family are already financially secure because when I started in the NBA, every year I invested in annuities.”
Annuities now provide more income than myself and my family need. The money I earn now is just for fun.”
Annuities? Yes, a man who in his lifetime will earn in excess of a BILLION dollars is depending on annuities to guarantee his financial future.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
Executive Chef Josef Huber at Gun Lake Casino shows off the popular burger, which comes with two 4.5-oz. patties. (Photo by John D. Gonzalez)
By John D. Gonzalez WKTV Contributing Writer
WAYLAND, MI – If you’re looking for more than 100 craft beers in one place, big TV screens for the big game and a tasty steak dinner, then you’ll be happy about three new restaurant and entertainment concepts at Gun Lake Casino.
Located right off Exit 61 on US 131, the casino’s growth and build out phase has been evident to passersby and patrons for months. Now it’s show time.
Reps of the Gun Lake Tribe’s Tribal Council and Gun Lake Casino executive team celebrated the opening of Phase IV of its expansion with a special ribbon cutting on Friday morning.
Even though today (Sept. 17) is the official grand opening, the crew has been testing systems and serving hungry customers for a couple weeks.
Everyone is loving it, said Gun Lake Casino executive Chef Josef Huber, who spent 23 years in the same role at Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids.
“I guarantee you’re going to have a great time out here,” he said on Thursday. “You’re going to be surprised by the amenities we offer, the food we serve and the quality of drinks.”
The new offerings at the 229,000-square-foot facility, owned by the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Potawatomi, include:
SHKODÉ Chophouse (ISH-KO-DAY), a flame-grilled steak and seafood restaurant open Thursday through Sunday, which offers a fresh take on American Cuisine and Artisan-crafted cocktails and curated wine list. Expect big flavors from a 32-oz. Tomahawk steak or 16-oz. New York Strip, said Chef Huber. Seafood lovers can delight in a platter for two, King Salmon and more. SHKODE is the Potawatomi word for fire and “honors Gun Lake Casino’s heritage through attention to flavor and quality with locally sourced and freshly harvested ingredients,” reps said.
CBK, a.k. “Craft, Bar, Kitchen” (Photo by John D. Gonzalez)
CBK, a.k.a. “Craft, Bar, Kitchen,” features more than 100 beers in bottles, cans and on draft. In addition, diners can check out the farm-to-table menu and shareables. Chef Huber said they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with 45 items on the menu; open daily. Favorites already include the burger, fish tacos and Chinese chicken salad. And they have pastas and sandwiches, too. He also brought back the popular Philly cheesesteak egg roll with a spicy aioli sauce from the former Sand Hill Cafe. CBK also has a new outdoor fireplace.
131 Sportsbar & Lounge, which has been re-imagined from its previous incarnation, offers floor-to-ceiling LED video walls and 180-degree panoramic views. Chef Huber said the video walls feature more than 28 million pixels and 1,000 square feet of HD viewing surface. “If you’re a sports fan, and you want to watch sports, this is the place to do it,” he said. As for the menu, he said fans can expect “great bar food, burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, salads and apps, and wash it down with some beer.” It also has a huge stage. The plan is to feature live music, comedy and sports entertainment. Local band Wayland and national act Blue Oyster Cult perform this weekend. (Both concerts are sold out.) In addition, 131 Sportsbar & Lounge has an outdoor patio area.
Along with the excitement of the official opening, those visiting the casino this weekend will see a variety of evening entertainment throughout the venue, including aerialists, stilt walkers, magicians, living statues, mimes and a speed artist.
But Chef Huber encourages guests to come out any day of the week.
“You can come on a Monday evening, on a Tuesday morning, on a Saturday or whenever you have a day off,” he said.
Whether it’s the highly touted burger, egg roll, wings, pizza or steak, “you’re going to have a hard time” deciding what to have first, he added.
SHOKÉ is the Potawatomi word for fire and the SHOKÉ Chophouse honors Gun Lake Casino’s attention heritage with attention to detail and quality. (Photo by John D. Gonzalez)
In addition to the new dining and entertainment options, the casino features 2,500 state-of-the art slot machines, 47 table games, a modern sportsbook, and keno.
Other dining options include the Harvest Buffet, which features fresh ingredients and cooked to order items. Chef Huber also oversees the buffet, as well an employee-only cafe where he serves more than 500 people daily. Each employee gets a free meal on their shift, reps said.
For more information about the offerings at the Gun Lake Casino, visit www.gunlakecasino.com.
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’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. 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.
Active Commute Week – a movement to promote more eco-friendly modes of transportation – is underway and runs through Friday.
“Active Commute Week is a great collaboration between individuals, organizations, and employers to promote healthy, sustainable modes of transportation around our region,” said Bill Kirk, spokesperson for The Rapid, and former participant in ACW. The Rapid and its commuter transportation program, West Michigan Rideshare, administer the technology utilized for Active Commute Week.
“Whether participants elect to ride The Rapid, hop on their own bike, take a walk, or utilize a scooter or bikeshare bike, that choice benefits our entire community by reducing emissions and improving public health outcomes,” said Kirk.
Kirk emphasized that the challenge is not just for work commute – participants can log a trip to the grocery store, restaurant, or library.
“Personally, I will be riding my bike or taking Route 5 to work and trying to make all my trips around my neighborhood by foot,” said Kirk.
The event will feature an employer challenge, designed to encourage friendly competition among organizations. Currently there are 25 Grand Rapids employers participating in the challenge.
Active Commute Week was postponed in 2020, but the event in 2019 was the largest yet. In a five-day period in June of 2019, a total of 393 individuals logged more than 4,000 green trips. The actions of those participating in the challenge reduced vehicle miles traveled by 19,293 miles, reducing pollutants by nearly 20,000 lbs, and saving commuters more than 900 gallons of gas. This year the event will take place across a seven-day period, in order to encourage participation on the weekend.
The Happy Hour recap event will take place on September 17 at Garfield Park. There will be an awards ceremony, and challenge participants will have a chance to win prize packages. It is not too late to sign up – Details on the event can be found at wmrideshare.org/acwgr
Brian Long is a local business forecaster. Credit: GVSU
Although still positive, the recovery for the West Michigan industrial economy has slowed considerably in recent weeks, according to Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University.
Long said the slowdown is expected at this stage of an economic recovery because of pent-up demand.
Long said the worldwide chip shortage is hampering auto production for almost every nameplate in the world. Dealer lots are predominately empty and Long said it may be 2022 before supply catches up with demand.
Highlights from Long’s economic report:
New orders, the index of business improvement, came in at +14 – typical of the recovery from most recessions once the initial pent-up demand has been satisfied.
The on-going chip shortage has washed backward into the automotive supply chain, causing slowdowns or temporary stoppages in production. The production index tapered to +11.
Staffing continues to be a major problem for many firms, even though some have raised their starting wage and offered signing bonuses. Many economists are concerned about a wage-price spiral.
Despite the Covid Delta Variant, the JPM international survey posted at 54.1, only a little below the all-time high of 56 set in May. The supply chains of the world continue to show no sign of returning to normal.
The employment index remained positive at +19, but would be stronger if there were people to hire. With some of the generous unemployment benefits coming off line, there is speculation that the employment situation will improve in coming months.
The Institute for Supply Management survey is a monthly survey of business conditions that includes 45 purchasing managers in the greater Grand Rapids area and 25 in Kalamazoo. The respondents are from the region’s major industrial manufacturers, distributors and industrial service organizations. It is patterned after a nationwide survey conducted by the Institute for Supply Management. Each month, the respondents are asked to rate eight factors as “same,” “up” or “down.”
Beginning in 2020, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates to multi-decade lows, dropping the rate on 10-year Treasuries from a robust 2% to 0.5%. This steep decline was a blow to savers, especially those who traditionally look to bonds as safety anchors for their retirement portfolios. Since Treasury 10-year rates determine approximately half the yield of corporate bonds, convertibles also feel the sting of near-negative interest rates.
Discouraged by a cooled-off bond market, many who count on bonds for retirement income are looking into convertible bonds as an alternative. Corporate bonds that can be swapped for common stock in the issuing company, convertible bonds can lower the coupon rate on debt, thus saving a company interest.
Convertibles allow a holder to exchange them for a predetermined number of regular shares in the issuing company. For the most part, convertibles function just like traditional corporate bonds but with somewhat lower interest rates.
Since convertibles may be changed into stock and benefit if the underlying stock price rises, companies offer lower yields. If the underlying stock does not perform well, there is no conversion, and the investor is stuck with the bond’s sub-par returns.
How do convertible bonds work?
Convertibles operate according to what is known as the “conversion ratio.” This formula determines how many shares will convert from each bond. The conversion ratio expresses as either a ratio or as the conversion price.
For example, if the conversion ratio is 40:1, with a par value of $1,000, shareholders may exchange the bond for 40 shares of the issuing company’s stock.
The price of convertible bonds starts to rise as the company stock price nears the conversion price. When this happens, your convertible bond performs somewhat like a stock option. If the corporate stock experiences volatility, so will your bond.
Why would anyone consider adding convertible bonds to their portfolio?
Investors add convertible bonds to their investment mix because convertibles offer guaranteed income with built-in downside protection. Provided an investor does not convert before maturity, they get their initial investment back, plus earned interest. There is also the potential for higher returns than traditional bonds.
What are some convertible bond pitfalls?
The “forced conversion” element of a convertible bond is one of these instruments’ most significant downsides. The bond issuing company retains the right to force investors to convert the bonds into stock. Such conversion typically occurs when the stock price becomes higher than the amount would be if the bond were redeemed.
A specific type of convertible bond, known as a reverse convertible bond (RCB), lets the issuing company decide to convert the bonds to shares or keep them as fixed-income investments until maturity. RCB’s, unlike common stocks, can cap the bond’s capital appreciation. Such caps mean that these bonds’ principle protection element may not be as worthwhile as it first appears.
Summing it up: Convertible bonds are somewhat complicated instruments designed to create guaranteed income while protecting against market losses. Companies usually issue convertible bonds with less-than-exceptional credit ratings but expectations of high growth. Convertibles allow these companies to get money to expand at much lower costs than those of conventional bonds.
If you are considering purchasing a convertible bond, you need to understand the basics of how they work and all the associated risks.
Always consult an authorized and licensed financial professional to map out convertibles’ pros and cons relative to your situation and risk tolerance. Your advisor may suggest other products, such as Fixed Indexed Annuities, that also guarantee principle with growth potential.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.com Dave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
The City of Kentwood and GR8 Food Trucks will again partner to offer a Food Truck Festival with more than 20 vendors to both help the community support small businesses and make the most of the end of the summer season.
The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 11, in the parking lot of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard. L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE, according to a Sept. 7 statement from the city.
The free-to-attend community event will run 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and feature 24 food trucks, live music and a beer and wine tent.
This year’s event will coincide with the 20th anniversary of 9/11. The event will include a moment of silence led by Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley, at 5 p.m., to honor the victims of 9/11, followed by a brief performance by local bagpiper Tom Bradley. There will also be posters from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York on display in the Library Community Room.
“We’re looking forward to the return of our Food Truck Festival, which has become one of our community’s favorite events to enjoy great food and music as we near the end of summer,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. said in supplied material. “We’ve developed a great lineup of food trucks with GR8 Food Trucks, as well as several musicians for a full day of fun outdoors.”
There will be a wide variety of sweet and savory food options available for purchase, according to the statement, with participating food trucks including Bigfoot Burger, Big Mike’s Kettle Corn, Beecher’s Pretzels, Curry in a Hurry, Daddy’s Dough Cookies, El Jalapeño, Fire and Rice Paella, Kool Breze, Kona Ice of Lowell, Lazy Man BBQ, Mapocho Fresh Sanwishes, Mexcellente, Nick’s Gyros, Olly’s Donuts, Patty Matters, PJW Creole Cuisine, Pressed in Time, Saladino Smoke, Sanse Filipino Cuisine, Street Frites, Touch O’ Dutch, Arcane Pizza, Whipped, a Brunch Truck, and UCC Desserts.
The City of Kentwood will continue to monitor public health guidance and orders, according to the statement, which may require changes to the event. Residents are encouraged to follow current public health guidelines to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
There was already roadwork being done Aug. 31 but there will be intermittent road closures during the next week in Kentwood on 32nd Street SE from the west city limits, just west of Pheasant Ridge Drive, to Breton Avenue while the section of roadway is repaved. (WKTV)
There was already roadwork being done Aug. 31 but there will be intermittent road closures during the next week in Kentwood on 32nd Street SE from the west city limits, just west of Pheasant Ridge Drive, to Breton Avenue while the section of roadway is repaved. (WKTV)
There was already roadwork being done Aug. 31 but there will be intermittent road closures during the next week in Kentwood on 32nd Street SE from the west city limits, just west of Pheasant Ridge Drive, to Breton Avenue while the section of roadway is repaved. (WKTV)
There was already roadwork being done Aug. 31 but there will be intermittent road closures during the next week in Kentwood on 32nd Street SE from the west city limits, just west of Pheasant Ridge Drive, to Breton Avenue while the section of roadway is repaved. (WKTV)
There was already roadwork being done Aug. 31 but there will be intermittent road closures during the next week in Kentwood on 32nd Street SE from the west city limits, just west of Pheasant Ridge Drive, to Breton Avenue while the section of roadway is repaved. (WKTV)
The City of Kentwood announced Tuesday, Aug. 31, that intermittent road closures are expected this week on 32nd Street SE from the west city limits, just west of Pheasant Ridge Drive, to Breton Avenue while the section of roadway is repaved.
The street will be totally closed between Pheasant Ridge Drive and Breton Avenue on Wednesday, Sept. 1, and Friday, Sept. 3. Additionally, the street may be closed in one direction or fully closed intermittently during construction.
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the work is expected to be completed by Wednesday, Sept. 8, according to the announcement.
Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and seek an alternate route or take the detour from Kalamazoo Avenue to 28th Street to Breton Avenue. Emergency, residential and business access will remain open. Area businesses and residents should utilize Breton Avenue or 32nd Street west of the project limits whenever possible.
Community members may sign up to receive biweekly updates on the City’s road construction projects by contacting Kentwood city engineer Brad Boomstra at boomstrab@kentwood.us or 616-554-0740.
Demand for senior living services drove Holland Home to undergo a $5.5 million expansion project at its Breton Woods campus on 44th Street near Breton Avenue in Kentwood. Completed recently, the new facility will provide an innovative 19,000 SF, 15-bed assisted living unit and a 5,400-square-foot activity center with a gym and exercise area.
The privately funded single-story assisted living unit will be a much-needed addition to the two existing assisted living buildings on the Breton Campus. Each of the existing structures, built in 2015 and 2017 respectively, contain 15-bed units.
“The growth of our assisted living services at Breton Woods is part of Holland Home’s overall strategy to meet the needs of our aging population,” said Holland Home President & CEO Mina Breuker.
The facility was designed by Post Architects with Erhardt Construction as the builder.
“We are thrilled to partner with Holland Home on their most recent addition to the Breton Woods Campus,” said Taggart Town, vice president, Erhardt Construction. “For over three decades, Erhardt Construction has been privileged to work with Holland Home as they provide independent living and continuum of care to the West Michigan senior community. The new expansion is another example of the top-notch senior living and care that Holland Home is known for.”
It’s expected that 10 to 15 new positions will be created to accommodate the increased capacity.
A peek into one of the living spaces at the new facility. (Supplied)
“We are excited to offer the additional assisted living building to our Breton Woods property, adding to our full continuum of care,” said Breton Woods Campus Executive Director Sara Heethuis, R.N., B.S.N.
The new assisted living building is a deinstitutionalized version of the typical assisted living facility and will afford residents the feeling of living in a real home with spacious private rooms and private bathrooms arranged around a communal dining and living area and a residential style kitchen. The building will also house a den, a salon (staffed by professionals) a spa (with a ceiling lift to assist individuals), nurses’ station, staff office and clean and soiled linen rooms.
The new 15-bed unit is named “Water View” as the interior design offers various art pieces centered on serene water setting. Various photographs of water-based concepts by West Michigan photographer and artist Steven Huyser-Honig line the halls and rooms. Many of the rooms either face woods or ponds or an outside patio and walking path surrounded by wildlife.
The new building will be staffed by universalworkers along with nursing and social work support.
“Staff will handle any necessary tasks whether it is dealing with personal care, doing laundry, or making the resident a snack,” adds Heethuis. “It has been shown that universal workers experience less job stress and spend more time engaging with residents.”
A study by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society has shown that the small, assisted living model results in significantly improved quality of life and does not compromise care. In fact, other studies have shown that residents maintained self-care abilities longer with the new model.
The Breton rehabilitation and living centers are rated five stars by Medicare Compare. The facility is part of Holland Home’s Breton Campus, which also features independent living facilities, rehabilitation and long-term care services. Learn more atwww.hollandhome.org.
Bob O’Callaghan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, talks about the chamber’s Metro Cruise expanding out to a second location in 2021, at the Woodland Mall.
People who have a history of cruising with the 28th Street Metro Cruise know it once extended from Cascade to Wyoming, with Woodland Mall a good middle point turnaround for some.
Bob O’Callaghan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, the hosting organization of the Metro Cruise, would like to see those days return.
But this year, just having the event extend its footprint and have a presence at Woodland Mall is a big step in the right direction.
“Woodland (Mall) has been an endpoint for a lot of folks going east,” O’Callaghan said to WKTV. “We are trying to get more people in Cascade, or whatever, doing events that go all the way, the full 13 miles. But at this point Woodland has been a great way to do that.”
The 28th Street Metro Cruise officially kicks-off Friday, Aug. 27, at 4 p.m., at its usual and main location at Rogers Plaza in Wyoming, and will continue Saturday, Aug. 28.
Rogers Plaza mall parking lot in Wyoming is always a focal point for the 28th Street Metro Cruise. (WKACC)
As in past years, the Rogers Plaza mall parking lot will feature food trucks and concessionaires, hundreds of collector cars, a kid’s entertainment area, a community awards ceremony, the crowd-favorite Miss Metro Cruise competition finals, live music on the Metro-Main Stage, and the popular Dynamometer car testing area where attendees can see cars rev up to 160 mph. (For more information and schedule of events visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.)
But at the second Main Event site, located on the off 28th Street at Woodland Mall, on Saturday, Aug. 28, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., will feature a wide array of collector, sports, and antique cars. It will also feature multiple food vendors including local food trucks, and official Metro Cruise merchandise.
“The good thing about this event here at Woodland Mall is that it is an opportunity for some of the folks in Cascade, Ada, who usually drive down to Rogers Plaza but don’t want to, have a closer venue,” O’Callaghan said. “We’ll have a lot of folks come into see the cars, and we’ll have a lot of folks just want see what it is. … It is a great opportunity for people to come in, park, look at the cars, and have a good time.”
O’Callaghan also expressed gratitude to the management of Woodland Mall for working with the Metro Cruise — “We are glad to have them be part of this for this year and hope it grows.”
And Woodland Mall is happy to be part of the festivities.
“We are looking forward again to welcoming the 28th Street Metro Cruise to Woodland Mall,” Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director for Woodland Mall, said to WKTV. “In addition to providing shoppers and guests with an excellent selection of shopping, dining and entertainment offerings, we also host many free events and programs for the community to enjoy year-round. … Metro Cruise is one of many events we’ve been grateful to be a part of again this year to bring the West Michigan community together.”
“As children, we all live in a world of imagination, of fantasy, and for some of us that world of make-believe continues into adulthood.”
Puppeteer and Muppets creator Jim Henson
You’ve Got a Friend
George Keen, left, and Ralph Baker on The Racing Show, taped by WKTV in January, 2020. (WKTV)
George Keen was a friend and mentor for many at WKTV. Known as the face of the popular “The Racing Show,” George would lend his natural broadcast talents to a number of WKTV projects such as DreamWheels at Metro Cruise and the sports show. General Manager Tom Norton writes “Something tells me that if Heaven has racing and they want the new guy to ‘call the race,’ everyone back here who knew George would recommend him highly.” WKTV thanks George’s family for sharing this man of many talents with us.
Revving up for Metro Cruise
It’s hard to believe that Metro Cruise is only a week away, but it is! The largest car show in West Michigan has a ton of events including a Wyoming versus Kentwood chicken wings challenge. Of courses, the cars will be the cente point with them lined up along 28th Street. Bonus: this year there will be two main locations, Rogers Plaza and Woodland Mall. For more on this year’s event, click here. For a look at past events, click here. The Metro Cruise schedule is available at wktvjournal.org and 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.
Forward Thinking
Scenes form “Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition”, coming to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum this fall. (SEE Attractions)
ArtPrize is on the horizon for Sept. 16 – Oct. 3 but there are several other cool events coming into Grand Rapids this fall as well. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum will be hosting “Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition.” The immersive visual experience is set to open Oct. 22. The Grand Rapids Art Museum will be featuring the work of Kelly Church and Cherish Parrish, members of the Gun Lake Tribe, Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band. The two are renowned for their artistry in black ash basketry. And the John Ball Zoo recently announced it will bring back IllumiZoo Wild Hues this fall. Guests will be able to stroll through an illuminated landscape of nature drenched with lighting and sounds. IllumiZoo will run Sept. 3 to Nov. 14.
La Marquise, the oldest running car in the world. (Public Domain)
Fun Fact: 137 years old and still running
Currently holding the title of the oldest running car is the La Marquise from France. The vehicle was manufactured in 1884 by De Dion, Bouton, and Trepardoux. The car was built as a prototype named after De Dion’s mother, and it was based on a quadricycle design. In 1987, an Englishman bought the car from a French auction and brought it home. After working on the car, he was able to get it running and it was the oldest car in the 1996 London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. The car was given the number “0” for the race. In a 2011 auction, the car sold for more than four and half million dollars. It is in a private collection.
Five contestants, including at least two from Kentwood, pulled out their cutlery and their eye for beauty recently as the the Kentwood Farmers Market held its first-ever Charcuterie Challenge, which had the entries given 30 minutes to first buy items from the market and then prepare a charcuterie plater for pubic vote.
The Aug. 12 challenge, eventually won by Lisa Hopkins, included contestants Amy Richey, Marne Becker-Baratta, Trang Wilbur and Joshua Knepper.
The competition took place during the Kentwood Farmers Market, located weekly behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE, with the finished boards on display and market-goers able to watch the competitors build their boards and then vote for their favorite. The winner received a gift courtesy of the Kentwood Farmers Market.
In the French tradition, charcuterie (pronounced “shahr-ku-tuh-ree”) is the art of preparing and assembling cured meats and meat products. The idea of charcuterie has evolved over the years to include an assortment of meats, cheeses, veggies and other items.
The market randomly selected five challengers out of a group of applicants to each receive $25 and 30 minutes to shop the market and assemble a one-of-a-kind charcuterie board using only those purchased ingredients.
“Charcuterie has become such a fun, popular way to display and enjoy a variety of food,” market manager Kristina Colby said prior to the event. “We are looking forward to seeing all the creative ways challengers showcase local foods found at the Kentwood Farmers Market and use the beautiful, handmade charcuterie boards Handcrafted by Fellow is suppling for the competition.”
The Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, farmers market manager Kristina Colby, center, prepares the chefs for the challenge. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Joshua Knepper is out shopping at the market. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Amy Richey (of Kentwood) is out shopping at the market. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, the contestants start their work. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Lisa Hopkins — and eventual winner — prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Joshua Knepper prepares his plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Marne Becker-Baratta (of Kentwood) prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Trang Wilbur prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Since 2005, the 28th Street Metro Cruise has been an annual event put on by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, but “cruising 28th Street” has been a “thing” long before then — people have grown up cruising up and down 28th Street, maybe first with their father and now with their children.
Cruisers have long considered 28th Street a memorable place for car lovers, particularly around the Rogers Plaza area in Wyoming, and “Bringing car lovers together to celebrate this long-standing tradition was the foundation for the current event,” the chamber states on their website.
And WKTV Community Media has been covering the 28th Street Metro Cruise since its inception.
“WKTV Community Media has for nearly half a century been part of the Wyoming and Kentwood community and, with Metro Cruise being one of largest gatherings of our community, we have a long history with the event,” Tom Norton, general manger of WKTV Community Media, said. “We have covered it in many ways over the years. Rain or shine. Big and smaller. The cars change but our commitment to coverage has not.”
For just a sampling of WKTV’s coverage, and some recent YouTube highlights, see the following links:
The History of Metro Cruise
Even in the COVID-19 year of 2020, WKTV got creative and still offered up a show.
In 2017, a car show met Hollywood premiere as WKTV brought classic vehicles to the red carpet.
In 2018, WKTV looked at what “classic sports and performance cars” might look like in the future.
