Led by Oral Health America, Demand Medicare Dental is a national campaign to improve oral health (and overall health) for older adults by adding a dental care benefit to Medicare.
The Government Matters meeting brings together representatives from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, Kent County commissioners, local Michigan state senators and representatives, as well as often representatives of Michigan’s U.S. senators and U.S. congressman who represent the Wyoming and Kentwood area.
Any pet-lover knows it’s tough to walk out the door for vacation when you have to leave your furry friends behind. Luckily, there are plenty of places throughout West Michigan ready to welcome both you and your four-legged friends! We’ve gathered some of our favorite pet-friendly locations to help you plan your next trip for the entire family.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is excited to announce the bloom of a rare Amorphophallus titanum, commonly known as a corpse flower, a bloom 18 years in the making.
Lovingly named “Putricia” by the Meijer Gardens horticulture staff, peak bloom is expected between Thursday, July 12, and Saturday, July 14, inside the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. Guests can experience the sights and smells of this rare event during Meijer Gardens’ normal hours of operation.
The corpse flower (Amorphophallus titanum) – also called titan arum – is one of the largest and rarest flowering plants in the world. It can take up to a decade to produce a flowering structure and when it blooms is open for only 24 to 36 hours.
“As a professional horticulturist, this is incredibly exciting,” said Steve LaWarre, Director of Horticulture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “Many people go through their entire careers never seeing an example like this in person. We are thrilled that something that we started as a seedling here at Meijer Gardens 18 years ago is coming to fruition and that the public is showing such great interest.”
The name corpse flower comes from the nauseating smell that the plant emits when it opens. This feature attracts carrion beetles and flies that are the natural pollinators of Amorphophallus titanum.
The plant was first reported in Sumatra, Indonesia, in 1878. Its distinctive odor attracts pollinators that feed on dead animals and is at its most pungent during peak bloom.
Amorphophallus titanum is the largest unbranched inflorescence (a cluster of flowers on a spike) in the plant kingdom, growing up to 12 feet tall in its natural habitat and about six to eight feet tall in cultivation. Although the enormous plant in bloom resembles one giant flower, it actually comprises a fleshy central spike called a spadix that holds two rings of male and female flowers, wrapped by the frilly spathe, a modified leaf that resembles a petal.
For more information on Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park visit meijergardens.org .
Runners are among the high-intensity athletes who should be especially cognizant of their exposure to heat on summer days. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
By Jolene Bennett, Spectrum Health Beat
Early last summer, incoming Kent State University freshman Tyler Heintz, 19, fell severely ill during an early-morning football practice.
His breathing grew labored and he began to slip in and out of consciousness. An ambulance rushed him to a hospital, but he later died.
The cause: exertional heat stroke.
This dangerous condition can strike an athlete of any stature, even those who have reached the pinnacle of their sport. In August 2001, 6-foot-4, 335-pound offensive tackle Korey Stringer, of the Minnesota Vikings, died shortly after collapsing during drills on a hot, humid day.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies groups most at risk of heat stroke, including the very young, the very old, the chronically ill, people who work outdoors and people in low-income households.
It is not uncommon for an athlete to sweat 1 to 2 liters per hour on a hot day. A large football player can lose up to 15 pounds of water in a single practice session.
The problem is most athletes drink far less than they sweat, simply because they underestimate the extent of their sweat loss.
Limitations
With summer underway, athletes young and old are more often found outdoors. It’s an essential time to impress the importance of proper hydration and rest.
Summer training camps for runners, soccer players and football players are proving grounds for excellence, but they can be ground zero for heat stroke trouble.
When athletes—especially runners and football players—participate in vigorous exercise in the warm months, dehydration can turn fatal.
Almost all heat-related deaths occur from May to September, according to the CDC, which also identifies exertional heatstroke as a leading cause of preventable, non-traumatic exertional sudden death for young athletes in the U.S.
Two-a-days, those notoriously difficult practices common to football, can often lead to trouble. Last year, the NCAA Division I Council banned two-a-days in preseason practices.
A 2016 study in the Journal of Athletic Training found that exertional heat exhaustion occurs at an increased rate in the first 14 days of practice, and especially in the first seven days.
About a decade ago, the National Athletic Trainers’ Association issued guidelines for preseason heat acclimatization. The guidelines establish a 14-day plan that helps athletes acclimatize to the heat. It zeroes in on the first three to five days of summer practice as the most important for progressive acclimatization.
On Day 1, for example, athletes shouldn’t participate in more than one practice and they should wear limited gear, as well as limiting the level of exertion and physical contact. For full-contact sports, “100 percent live contact drills should begin no earlier than Day 6.”
Coaches and training staff must carefully consider their approaches to summer practices, scrutinizing duration, intensity, time and place.
On especially hot days, for instance, the practice may need to be limited in length or simply rescheduled to a cooler part of the day.
Keeping watch
Athletes and parents need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of dehydration and heat stroke.
Keep in mind that thirst is not always the best indicator of dehydration. By the time a person senses thirst, the body may have already lost more than 1 percent of its total water. Athletes, coaches and parents should emphasize the importance of proper hydration before, during and after sporting activities—and then keep watch for any signs of trouble.
Not urinating, or very dark yellow or amber-colored urine
Dry, shriveled skin
Irritability or confusion
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Rapid heartbeat
Rapid breathing
Sunken eyes
Listlessness
Shock (not enough blood flow through the body)
Unconsciousness or delirium
When dehydration goes untreated, the body can no longer maintain homeostasis, which leads to heat stroke. This can cause impaired cardiovascular function and neurological failure.
An athlete experiencing heat stroke may become agitated, confused or unable to maintain balance.
The signs of heat stroke:
High body temperature
Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
Fast, strong pulse
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Confusion
Losing consciousness
Heat stroke, also referred to as heatstroke or sun stroke, is a true medical emergency that is often fatal if not properly and promptly treated. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if heat illness is causing vomiting, seizures, or unconsciousness. Locate an urgent care facility near you.
The next City of Kentwood Summer Concert Series, on Thursday, July 12, will offer some definitely “Dudee Free” music as Grand Rapids based Big Dudee Roo presents its heady concoction of psychedelic/grunge sounds, folk-rock fierceness in the style of Neil Young and Crazy Horse, and pointed social and political lyrics.
(Dudee Free is the title of the latest release by the band, by the way … I did not just make that up. And I caught up with them last year at a brew pub’s outdoor fest, and they are a great live band.)
The band is currently made up of Max Lockwood on vocals, bass and songwriting; Justin Dore on lead guitar and backing vocals; Nate Wagner on vocals, guitar and songwriting; and Daine Hammerle on drums.
The Summer Concert Series offers free concerts and family entertainment on select Thursday nights from June to August. All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, located at 4900 Breton Road SE.
In addition to a variety of music, the concerts offer a variety of food trucks at each concert offering food and beverages for purchase. Concert-goers are also encouraged to bring a blanket or their chair, and are welcome to bring their own beer or wine.
While the series features an eclectic mix of indie, folk, country, blues and rock music, Big Dudee Roo may be a little hard to label.
“Big Dudee Roo is committed to rock and roll, and the making of it,” the band states on their website. “Started by high school friends Justin Dore, Max Lockwood, Kurt Rizley and Nate Wagner in the small town of Wayland, MI, the band has matured into a powerhouse of driving rhythms, heavy guitars, and thoughtful, poetic lyricism, combining the raw energy of Crazy Horse with the polish of Pearl Jam and Tom Petty.”
ByKaren Fifield, Michigan State University Extension
This is the season for food, family, picnics and barbecues. It is important to stay food safe by using a food thermometer when barbecuing. Before you begin the grilling season, explore some tips provided by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to keep you and your family’s food safe.
When purchasing foods for grilling, be careful to transport them safely from the store to your home, keeping meats separate from other foods, particularly poultry. Transport cold foods in coolers or thermal containers, keeping them at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, refrigerate until it is time to cook.
Keep all cooking utensils and equipment cleaned and sanitized to prevent cross contamination from raw food touching cooked food. Never place cooked foods on platters that have contained raw meats. If you feel you need to precook foods for the grill, the USDA recommends partially cooking foods in a microwave, oven or on a stove to help reduce the time it takes to cook on a grill.
To prevent charring, cook foods with low flame or charcoal, also by removing any visible fat that may cause grease to flare. Other safe practices to follow according to USDA guidelines, pertain to cooking foods to proper internal temperatures.
Whole poultry: 165 degrees F
Poultry breasts: 165 degrees F
Ground poultry: 165 degrees F
Ground meats: 160 degrees F
Beef, pork, lamb and veal (steaks, roasts and chops): 145 degrees F and allow to rest at least three minutes
Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures; this is a minimal temperature as the meat can be cooked to a higher temperature if you choose to do so. Always keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold, and remember to package leftovers in small amounts and keep in a refrigerator. When reheating any food items it is recommended to reheat leftovers to a temperature of 165 degrees F.
Just back from a run with her husband, Laura Metro faced a parent’s worst nightmare: Her 6-year-old daughter, Maison, ran to her screaming, “I think Clay died! I think Clay died!”
Metro’s 3-year-old son, who was swimming with family friends, was found at the bottom of the pool with his towel. One friend started CPR—or the closest thing he knew based on what he’d seen on TV—on Clay’s blue, lifeless body.
Paramedics arrived and got Clay’s heart beating again. He was taken by helicopter to the hospital and spent two days in a coma before making what Metro calls “nothing short of a miraculous recovery.”
“The doctors said, ‘We don’t know why he’s alive,’ ” Metro said. “The only thing—the only thing—we can attribute it to is the bystander CPR. … He didn’t see the inside of a hospital for an hour and a half [after almost drowning]. That was really what did it.”
Drowning is the third-leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide, accounting for 7 percent of all injury-related deaths, according to the World Health Organization. The agency estimates there are 360,000 annual drowning deaths worldwide.
The Metros’ good fortune is anecdotal evidence of the findings from a study, published in the June 2017 edition of the journal Resuscitation, which found that chances for neurological recovery from a near-drowning increase when the victim receives CPR from a bystander.
“We would advocate for parents knowing CPR, and particularly if they have a pool, they should become familiar and get trained in mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing,” said Dr. Michael Sayre, a professor of emergency medicine at the University of Washington in Seattle. “Whereas hands-only CPR is typically focused on someone who is not in the water and collapses suddenly for other reasons, people underwater die because of lack of oxygen.”
After Clay’s recovery, Metro founded a nonprofit called CPR Party, using the model of at-home shopping parties to encourage people to teach and learn CPR. The lessons aren’t equal to official CPR certification, Metro said, but “they will know what to do and hopefully, we create a bridge to certification. We just give them that basic knowledge to empower them.”
About one in five people who die from drowning are 14 years old or younger, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And for every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency department care for nonfatal injuries, often including brain damage. The numbers are particularly discouraging, experts say, because in many cases, drowning is preventable.
“The biggest thing we try to get through to people is you need to maintain constant, active supervision when people are in the water,” said Adam Katchmarchi, executive director of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance. “Regardless of age and swimming ability, you should never swim alone. You should always swim around someone who’s keeping that vigilant watch over the water, whether that be a parent in a backyard pool or whether you’re swimming in a lifeguarded area.”
Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat
On its website, the NDPA stresses what it calls “layers of protection,” including swimmer training, facility safety and parental responsibilities designed to prevent drowning. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, without warning, Katchmarchi said.
“We’re used to the Baywatch drowning, where people see on TV that someone’s going to be waving their arms and screaming for help,” he said.
“An actual drowning victim, when they’re in that 20- to 60-second fight for survival, they’re unable to call for help because all of their energy is being used to keep their head above water. A lot of times they’re bobbing up and down, going under and re-emerging and trying to get air, so it’s really difficult for them to call out for help,” Katchmarchi said.
“It’s really easy to say, ‘Oh, I’m watching my kids,’ but you’re scrolling through Facebook or your Twitter feed. … Even if you’re distracted for just a short period of time, it can happen really quickly and really silently.”
The Fourth of July — also known as Independence Day or America’s Birthday — has been a recognized federal holiday since 1941. The day actually marks when the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. (The vote for independence took place on July 2.)
This year, most communities will be celebrating the nation’s 242nd birthday on Wednesday, July 4. For today’s Snapshots, we provided a list of Fourth of July activities and wish everyone a safe and happy celebration.
Click on the cute little map thumbnails below, and you will be whisked to larger maps which will guide you to where you need to go.
Kentwood
Activities begin with a pancake breakfast at the KDL Kentwood (Richard L. Root), 4950 Breton Rd. SE, from 7:30-9:30am and is followed by the NN Mobile Solutions 5K Race & Fun Walk and the parade which starts at Crestwood Middle School, 2674 44th St. SE. The middle school also will be the site for the evening activities that start at 6pm with fireworks at dusk. For more, click here.
Grandville
Grandville’s Fourth of July celebration kicks off the day with a flag raising at 8:30am at the Grandville Middle School, 3535 Wilson Ave. SW followed by a parade. In the afternoon at the Middle School, there will be a variety of activities starting at noon with fireworks at dusk. For more, click here.
Grand Rapids
The Amway Family Fireworks in Grand Rapids will be July 7, yes, Saturday, July 7. The activities such as games, food, vendor exhibits and music, will kick off at 5pm at Ah-Nab-Awen Park, which is right next to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, 303 Pearl St. NW. Fireworks will be at dusk (estimated time is 10:30pm) For more, click here.
Dorr
This community to the south has a five-day celebration that started on June 30 and wraps up on July 4. On Wednesday, there is a community breakfast at the Dorr Christian Reformed Church, 4220 18th St., Dorr, followed by a parade and activities throughout the afternoon. The fireworks will be at dusk (estimated time is 10:20pm) For more click here.
Other local communities:
East Grand Rapids, Ada, Allendale and Cascade will have Fourth of July celebrations as well. These will include parades, activities, and fireworks.
Village of Hopkins
Just a little further south, the Village of Hopkins has teamed up with the Gun Lake Casino for its annual Fourth of July celebration. Activities start with a free breakfast. The children’s parade is at 4pm and the main parade at 5pm. The fireworks, which are being billed as the “biggest boom ever,” are scheduled for dusk. For more, click here.
Lakeshore
The communities of Grand Haven, Saugatuck-Douglas and Holland all have Fourth of July events taking place. Also, Nelis’ Dutch Village will be celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. A vintage car show is set for Tuesday, July 3.
And to the North
Muskegon will be hosting a two-day Fourth of July celebration and the annual Lakeshore Art Festival will be taking place on July 6 and 7. Also, the White Lake area has its Fourth of July parade on Wednesday along with fireworks over the north end of White Lake. Ludington hosts its annual Freedom Festival which includes a parade and fireworks.
And one last boom….
At tonight’s Whitecaps games (July 3) there will be fireworks. The game starts at 7:05pm. For more, click here.
WKTV Schedule July 4 schedule
9:00am — Senior Exercise: Summer Special
9:30am — Celebrating Life & Food: Celebrating the 4th of July
Kentwood: City plans activities to celebrate 4th of July
Parades are big thing in Kentwood, so there will be one on July 4th. (WKTV)
All are invited to join the City of Kentwood’s annual Fourth of July Celebration for a full day of activities, including a pancake breakfast, a 5K race and a parade, followed by an evening complete with carnival rides, games and fireworks at Crestwood Middle School.
Music scene: Hot international band Kaleo in GR Sunday
Both dedicated and soon-to-be fans of Kaleo will get a chance to see and hear the group’s range when the band hits the stage of 20 Monroe Live Sunday, July 1.
WKTV YouTube Videos: Check out ideas from the West Michigan Tourist Association
West Michigan Tourist Association’s Jeremy Witt sits down with WKTV to talk about fun, educational adventures West Michigan residents can enjoy this summer.
By Bethany Bohlen, W.K. Kellogg Biological Station
Need a little nature in your mornings? Spend a summer morning at the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary viewing birds on an expert-led walk through the Sanctuary’s picturesque trails.
The Sanctuary hosts Birds & Coffee Walks year-round on the second Wednesday of each month. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely birding stroll led by Sanctuary staff to locate and identify the many birds at the Sanctuary, including songbirds, waterfowl, gamebirds, and birds of prey. Join us afterward to talk about the morning’s finds over a cup of hot, bird-friendly coffee.
This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the variety of birds that can be found at the Sanctuary, and birders of all skill levels are invited. Visitors can bring their own binoculars or borrow a pair from the Sanctuary.
Each program runs 9-10:30 am. Program dates for the next three months are July 12, August 9, and September 13. Sanctuary members attend for free! The cost of attendance for non-members is Sanctuary general admission: $5 for adults and $4 for senior citizens (62+).
The W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary is located at 12685 East C Avenue, one mile north of M-89 and just west of 40th Street. To learn more, visit birdsanctuary.kbs.msu.edu, email birdsanctuary@kbs.msu.edu, or call (269)671-2510.
The W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary is part of the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station. Celebrate with us our legacy of conservation as we mark 90 years since W.K. Kellogg donated the lands that now make up KBS to Michigan State University. Our commitment to research, education and outreach stands on the foundation of W.K. Kellogg’s vision for cutting-edge science and learning.
As MSU’s largest off-campus educational complex, we’ve put our land-grant values into practice as we’ve provided the public with examples of science’s crucial role in sustaining natural and managed communities for nearly a hundred years. As we look forward, our students and faculty are working to understand and solve real-world environmental problems for a better tomorrow. To learn more about KBS, visit us online at kbs.msu.edu.
Parades are big thing in Kentwood, so there will be one on July 4th. (WKTV)
By City of Kentwood
All are invited to join the City of Kentwood’s annual Fourth of July Celebration for a full day of activities, including a pancake breakfast, a 5K race and a parade, followed by an evening complete with carnival rides, games and fireworks at Crestwood Middle School.
“Our Fourth of July celebration offers a variety of activities for the entire family to enjoy,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. “We welcome our friends and neighbors to celebrate our nation’s independence with us.”
The pancake breakfast will be held at the Kent District Library Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch community room, located at 4950 Breton Road SE, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The $5 breakfast will include pancakes and sausage.
Beginning at 7:30 a.m., racers of all ages will gather at Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Road SE, for registration for the NN Mobile Solutions 5K Race & Fun Walk. The race will begin 8:30 a.m., with the start and finish line on Walma Avenue SE near City Hall.
Following the race will be the annual parade at 9:30 a.m. The parade route will start at Crestwood Middle School, 2674 44th St. SE, then travel south on Walma Avenue SE to Breton Road SE, turn west on 52nd Street SE and end at Challenger Elementary School.
The evening celebration at Crestwood Middle School will begin at 6 p.m. and feature carnival rides, giant inflatables, food vendors and food trucks. Sweet J Band will perform blues, rock and soul music leading up to the fireworks show that will begin at dusk.
Kentwood Parks and Recreation is seeking volunteers for the Fourth of July Celebration. Those interested are encouraged to visit kentwood.us/parks or call 616.656.5270 to sign up.
More information about Independence Day activities in Kentwood can be found online at kentwood.us/parks.
If you enjoy going to the Fulton Street Farmer’s Market, stopping at roadside vegetable stands, and “eating local” at restaurants, this is the book for you. Written by Jaye Beeler, former food editor and restaurant reviewer for The Grand Rapids Press, who aims to eat locally shares her favorite Michigan foods with us in this mouth-watering book. The stunning photographs are by Dianne Carroll Burdick, a veteran local photographer, whose work has appeared in six books and over fifty art exhibitions.
Jaye and Dianne’s year-long journey took them all over the state, driving 2,500 miles and taking 8,000 photographs. Michigan is the second-most agriculturally diverse state in the country. Jaye and Dianne visited small family farms growing everything from asparagus to zucchini. They sought out orchards that produce peaches, cherries and antique apples. They stopped by fisheries, meat markets, bakeries and restaurants. They tasted fresh milk, goat cheese and ice cream from dairies.
Some of my personal favorites in the book are the thimbleberry jam from the Jampot in Eagle Harbor, the Raclette from Leelanau Cheese in Suttons Bay, and smoked whitefish from John Cross Fisheries in Charlevoix. There are 26 pages of delicious recipes — don’t miss Zingerman’s Roadhouse macaroni and cheese, Christmas Cove’s apple pie and Rob Burdick’s roasted squash. This book is a perfect companion for any Michigan roadtrip.
So buckle your seat belt and loosen a notch in your belt and savor our state’s fine homegrown food.
This photo was an entry in the 2017 West Michigan Photo Contest. Photo by Nathan Logsdon
By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association
The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) is excited to announce the launch of their 2018 West Michigan Photo Contest. With so much beauty found in West Michigan, the West Michigan Tourist Association wants travelers to show off what they love most about this beautiful side of the state, and win some great West Michigan prizes! The contest is looking for traveler photo submissions from all around West Michigan. This region covers the entire west side of Michigan from the Indiana border to Mackinac Island and into the Upper Peninsula.
All photo entries must be received by July 31, 2018, for public voting by WMTA’s Facebook audience. Last year, more than 35,000 votes were cast during the public vote. All winning photos will be featured in WMTA’s upcoming West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide, printed in January 2019. The first place photo will also be featured on the cover of the Guide.
The accepted photo formats are high resolution (300 dpi+) jpeg or tiff. CMYK is preferred. Email submissions to PhotoContest@WMTA.org and include the full name of the photographer, the Michigan city in which the photograph was taken, and a short description of the photo. Submit one photo per email; multiple entries per person allowed.
Picture it now: a perfect early fall evening, classic American country-rock music blasting from the stage, and every audience member playing an important role in supporting the mission of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
That will be the scene Aug. 23 when Alabama takes the stage at the partially refurbished outdoor amphitheater for a special concert to benefit the Garden’s ongoing Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love capital campaign, as all net proceeds from the show will be contributed to the campaign.
“Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a non-profit and all of our land, facilities, Gardens and Sculpture are due the generosity of Fred and Lena Meijer, the extended Meijer Family and the thousands of people from the community that support us,” David S. Hooker, President and CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, said to WKTV. “The Alabama concert represents a unique way for people to support our mission and expansion and to enjoy a performance from this legendary band. We are humbled and grateful to have Alabama be part of the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens.”
Hooker did not mention if he was a fan of the classic American country and Southern rock band, but we would not be surprised — after all, the boys in the band are as hardworking as all the working folk buzzing around Meijer Gardens this summer.
The band’s website tell Alabama’s all-American story:
“It’s been 40 years since a trio of young cousins left Fort Payne, Alabama, to spend the summer playing in a Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, bar called The Bowery. It took Randy Owen, Teddy Gentry and Jeff Cook six long years of tip jars and word of mouth to earn the major label deal they’d been dreaming of, but then seemingly no time at all to change the face of country music.
“Alabama proceeded to reeled off 21 straight No. 1 singles, a record that will probably never be equaled in any genre. They brought youthful energy, sex appeal and a rocking edge that broadened country’s audience and opened the door to self-contained bands from then on, and they undertook a journey that led, 73 million albums later, to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.”
A sampling of Alabama’s No. 1 singles include “Love in the First Degree”, Mountain Music”, “Dixieland Delight”, “If Your Going to Play in Texas (You Gotta have a Fiddle in the Band” and “Song of the South”.
The lasting appeal of Alabama’s music is evidenced by another story from the band’s website:
“I was in Nashville,” Teddy Gentry says, “walking by this club full of young people — I’m talking 18 or 20. The band started playing ‘Dixieland Delight’ and everybody in the place started singing and sang all the way through. I had to smile at the longevity of the songs. Maybe some of those kids didn’t even know who Alabama was, but they knew the music, and so I think that’s a tribute to the fact that we spent a career putting out good songs that stand the test of time.”
You can bet that there will be plenty of older, and younger, fans of classic country-rock — as well as simply supporters of Meijer Gardens — on the amphitheater grass that August night.
And it might just be a picture-perfect night.
Tickets to Alabama are $153 member and $155 public. For tickets to the special benefit concert, visit here. For a complete list of Summer Concert Series concerts with tickets available, visit meijergardens.org .
Kent County Department of Public Works is reminding people that propane tanks should not be placed in trash or recycling carts once empty.
The arrival of summer marks the start of grilling and camping season when people will be using small, portable propane tanks often. Whether using the larger style for barbecue grills, or the small style used for camping lanterns, empty 1-pound and 20-pound propane tanks should never be disposed of in trash or recycling carts.
“For the safety of our facilities and our staff and those of others in the waste and recycling industry, it’s critically important that empty propane tanks be transported directly to an appropriate propane handler,” said Kent County DPW Communications Manager Kristen Wieland. “Even though the propane tanks seem empty, there are always some vapors left inside that can cause an explosion at our facilities or in waste collection vehicles.”
Kent County’s Recycling & Education Center has experienced two explosions in the last two years, both in June, from propane tanks. One staff person was sent for evaluation but no injuries resulted from the explosions. Propane tanks also pose risks to waste collection drivers and vehicles when the waste is collected and then compacted inside the truck.
Empty propane tanks should be taken to a local drop-off center for safe disposal since they still contain explosive vapors. Kent County DPW lists participating locations on their website, www.reimaginetrash.org. Locations include Alto, Wyoming, Grand Rapids, Cedar Springs, Rockford and Byron Center.
The City of Kentwood Summer Concert series continues this week with “Michigan’s Songbird”, May Erlewine, on Thursday, June 21.
The Summer Concert Series offers free concerts and family entertainment on select Thursday nights from June to August. All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, located at 4900 Breton Road SE.
In addition to a variety of music, the concerts offer a variety of food trucks at each concert offering food and beverages for purchase. Concert-goers are also encouraged to bring a blanket or their chair, and are welcome to bring their own beer or wine.
“Some people might call May Erlewine ‘Michigan’s Songbird’, but her songs have traveled far beyond her home state,” her website states. “One of the most prolific and passionate songwriters of her generation, May’s music has touched the hearts of people all over the world. Her words have held solace for weary hearts, offered a light in the darkness and held a lot of space for the pain and joy of being alive in these times. When she starts to sing, there’s no way around it. Welcome to the moment, everyone.
“Raised in a family rich with art and music, May began writing songs and playing them for the people at a very young age. Her journeys have taken her all over the world, from street corners to renowned stages, May has performed for all walks of life. In her travels Erlewine came to know the land and the pulse of the people. Her songs show a very real connection and concern with everyday folk.”
With school out, kids have a lot of free time on their hands. Instead of having them stay home all summer long, give them an educational vacation! There are hands-on, interactive, and genuinely fun educational experiences that will have kids of all ages learning throughout summer break, whether they know it or not. There are even educational vacations for adults, including in-depth winery and brewery tours. Make sure that the whole family is having a fun summer, while still learning, in West Michigan.
Learn a New Hobby
With the Action Summer Camps at Action Wake Park in Hudsonville, your kids will be introduced to the world of wakeboarding. These camps are the perfect place for eager wakeboarders to expand their skills in a safe and controlled environment. Action Wake Park camps supply your camper with everything they’ll need, including professional instruction. For dates and sign up information, visit Action Wake Park’s website.
Waters Edge Golf Course in Fremont offers golf lessons throughout the summer. In their Junior Program, the less-experienced golfers will learn basic golf instruction, USGA rules, and proper course etiquette. Intermediate to advanced golfers will improve their skills, prepare for competitive golf, and participate in weekly competitions.
Check out the Creative Chocolate Class at Chocolates by Grimaldi in Grand Haven. Designed to cater to your sweeter, more artistic side, the 90-minute class is an adventure that you’ll want to be sure to add to your schedule. You will have the opportunity to learn about chocolate while socializing with friends, family, and other chocolate enthusiasts.
Chocolates by Grimaldi
Drop into Gull Lake View Golf Club & Resort in Augusta every Wednesday for a half hour group lesson from their PGA pros, five holes of golf, and happy hour food and drinks during their Five-Hole Happy Hour! Cost is only $25 per week, and you’ll golf alongside pros who will offer course tips.
Saskatoon Golf in Alto hosts Junior Golf Lessons and Leagues, perfect for any beginner, intermediate, or advanced player looking to hone their skills. The Junior League requires players to be familiar with golf basics and etiquette. The nine-week league places teams in a bracket to see who can come out on top. Enroll your kids in these lessons or leagues today to see if they have what it takes to rule the greens!
Don’t forget that Father’s Day is Sunday, June 17th. Many West Michigan businesses are hosting special events, discounts, or offers for the dad in all of our lives. No matter his interest, you’ll find something for him here.
If you know the work of Japanese artist Masayuki Koorida exclusively from the polished, yet unfinished, stones of “Existence”, located in the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park’s Japanese Garden, you are in for a surprise.
The 7th annual Allendale Community Field Day — on Saturday, June 16th — will offer members of the West Michigan community the chance to learn about the natural history of the region.
The Beer City Brewsader Passport program recently celebrated the 10,000th Beer City Brewsader, which allows those “that have done the hard work of visiting 8+ breweries to earn the title and the t-shirt,” the group says.
For those of us for whom the t-shirt is just a bit of a show-off, the real reward of all that “hard work” is a book full of stamps and beer stains — my stamp book (not to brag; okay, to brag a little) has the original book filled, the first additional book almost filled, and the blank pages stamped with two new breweries not yet in the book(s).
Of course, there is also the new Beer City Brewsader app, and you can transfer your paper passport stamps to the app as people work toward their “Ultimate Brewsader” status. “Don’t worry, for those that love your paper passport we are still using those too! The app is an additional option,” according to supplied information.
For more information the Brewsader Passport (either new-school or old-school), visit experienceGR.com .
57 Brewpub becomes Castle Brewing (still has great outdoor music)
As reported here in December 2017, Greenville’s 57 Brewpub and Bistro changed ownership and now Castle Brewing Co. has launched their new “brand”. But don’t worry, its not some Medieval-themed place.
According Castle Brewing’s website, “About the name . . . no, our building isn’t a castle. We just wanted to pay tribute to the building that stood on the property for decades and those of us old enough to remember it.”
J.R.’s Roller Castle was once a roller rink but also a building that dates to the 1920s before being demolished in 2011.
“We’re sure we’re not the only ones who fondly reminisce about our first “hitchhike” skate at JR’s!” the website statement continues. “We know this space holds many more memories to come – we look forward to being a part of them!”
There is a little bit of new at Castle Brewing. They have an expanded list of beers on tap, both in-house and guest — I’m looking forward to trying their Red Castle red Irish ale (6.2 percent in case you keep track of such things). They still have their great outdoor seating and occasional music, but now boast a new and expanded beer garden.
Castle Brewing Co. is located at 1310 West Washington, Greenville. For more information on Castle Brewing Co., visit castlebrewingco.com .
Cedar Springs Brewing’s ‘Feelgood Tap’ helps local fight leukemia
Cedar Springs Brewing Company’s June “Feelgood Tap” is its Blood, Sweat and Tears Pale Ale, and during this month $1 from each pour goes to support Kohen Karn’s fight against leukemia.
“He is the child of our friends at Elk Brewing: Comstock Park and Elk Brewing: Grand Rapids, and part of the Beer City Brewers Guild family,” Cedar Springs Brewing explains in an email about the promotion.
Cedar Springs Brewing Company’s “Feelgood Tap” is part of a Michigan program which works with breweries to raise funds for various community causes.
Cedar Springs Brewing Company is located at 95 N Main, Cedar Springs. For more information visit csbrewing.com . For more information on Feelgood Tap visit feelgoodtap.org .
The Grand Rapids Public Museum, as part of the Museum’s Beer Explorers program, is partnering with Creston Brewery for a beer and “beer snack” tasting and discussion on Thursday, June 21. To explore “how fermentation changes flavor,” brewmaster Scott Schultz will take participants through the science of how you get those flavors, and how to pair the beer best with foods, according to supplied material.
A sampling of beers at the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Beer Explorers program — yes there are glasses of what you like available for purchase. (Supplied)
Creston Brewery will feature five beers in this month’s Beer Explorers, including two with unique names related to Grand Rapids history — Fox Deluxe and Quimby. The museum will also showcase historic beer artifacts for participants to see a glimpse at where these names came from, as well as see artifacts not normally on display.
Class begins at 6:30 p.m., and will be held on the first floor of the museum. Admission to class includes beer and snack samples, and access to the museum’s first two floors to explore. A cash bar will be available.
Tickets for the event are $10 for museum members and $20 for non-members. Participants must be 21 and older. GRPM is located at 272 Pearl Street, NW. For information and tickets to Beer Explorers, visit grpm.org .
Disc golf is big in West Michigan and is now on WKTV cable television. (U.S. Air Force photo)
By Elmer Cox, for WKTV
Citizens of Kentwood, Wyoming and the surrounding area can now find out about a relatively new sport on a program called Disc Golf Live, now on WKTV community television.
Disc Golf Live is produced by Hucker Report, and will air on Wednesdays at 4 p.m., Fridays at noon and at various times on Saturdays, beginning this week on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.
Each episode is designed in four sections: Disc golf world wide tournament highlights, instructional highlights for all levels of players, views of disc golf courses from around the world, and interviews with all the top players.
Beginning as early as the 1970s, disc golf began being popular all over the country. Some called it Frisbee or Frisbee golf. Others named it disc golf. Disc golf courses began to grow up all over the area including Brewer Park in Byron Center, Riverside Park in downtown Grand Rapids, Fallasburg Park in Lowell, as well as Johnson Park, Old Farm, Garfield Park, JC Park and Grand Isle Park Rotary Disc Golf Park in the Comstock Park area.
In recent years, the World Seniors Tour Disc Golf Tournament was held in Grand Rapids with entrants from most of the states in the U.S. and many foreign countries.
For a complete schedule of broadcasts on WKTV community television, visit wktv.org and click on the Programming tab.
If you know the work of Japanese artist Masayuki Koorida exclusively from the polished, yet unfinished, stones of “Existence”, located in the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park’s Japanese Garden, you are in for a surprise.
Masayuki Koorida. (Supplied/courtesy of the artist)
WKTV had the opportunity to meet with Joseph Antenucci Becherer, vice president and chief curator, to discuss the latest exhibition at the garden’s indoor exhibitions space, Koorida’s “Beyond Existence”, which was unveiled late last month.
Becherer said that the new exhibit is really focused not only on the artist but on the audience’s interaction with the exhibit.
“What makes this exhibit unique we really tried to keep the text and information we share with the audience to a minimum,” he said. “So that the people have a greater opportunity to experience, whether the piece is in marble or granite or stainless steel or the drawings, just to take in the work, to understand the shape and understand the form.”
The idea behind this was to give the visitors a fully immersive experience; delving deep into what Koorida is truly about by first viewing the indoor exhibition then making their way outside and contemplating “existence” while viewing his permanent piece in the Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden.
Following last year’s exhibition of the works of Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, and asked if it was a conscious decision to present diversity in modern Asian art and artists, Becherer said that the conscious decision on the Garden’s part was to “take the opportunity to host a sculptor who has a work in the permanent collection” and feature them with their own exhibition.
Koorida is relatively new to the American art scene; Becherer said the Gardens was first made aware of his artwork between 2010 and 2011. So it has been “a long journey” with the artist for the Gardens. Interestingly, though, he said he did not first notice Koorida’s work in his native country of Japan.
“Ironically having been born in Japan, and working in China today, we actually first saw his work in Germany,” Becherer said. “So there was a global path of what he is doing.”
His global path has now led Koorida to being prominently featured in one of his first major solo exhibitions here in the United States.
Masayuki Koorida’s “Alteration”. (Supplied/courtesy of the artist)
Although Koorida is relatively unknown to American art enthusiasts, Becherer believes that the “caliber of the work, the quality of the thought and the diversity of materials (used in his artwork) will really draw the attention of the visitors of Meijer Gardens.”
Sculptors physical requirements are much higher than most other art forms. They need a lot of space and adequate material which contributes to Koorida’s main base of operations now being in Shanghai, China, which, according to supplied material, is very close to some of that country’s stone quarries.
Becherer went on to explain the importance to sculptural artists of proximity to quarries is historic, even going so far as to mention the great Michelangelo in the same conversation and point out similar tendencies when he moved to Italy to be close to the stone quarries.
Koorida is also often inspired by nature and its simplicity. Having both his indoor exhibition and outdoor displays to witness allows guests to really contemplate both, as well as simply to contemplate “existence”.
The exhibit runs through August 19, for more information visit here. And see more of the interview with Becherer on the next WKTV Journal newscast on cable television and YouTube.
Sparklers may be a favorite for families with kids, but care needs to be used with any fireworks.
By Michigan State Police
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an average of 240 people nationwide go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the Fourth of July holiday. Due to these injuries, the Michigan State Police is reminding citizens to take extra safety precautions if your July Fourth celebration includes fireworks.
“Fireworks pose a serious fire and burn hazard because they are unpredictable,” said Community Service Trooper Martin Miller, Rockford Post. “Even supervised use of legal fireworks can result in devastating injuries.”
If you choose to use fireworks at home, follow these safety precautions:
Read and follow all warnings and instructions included on the packaging.
Never allow children to play with fireworks of any kind.
Only use fireworks outdoors.
Wear protective clothing, including eyewear.
Only ignite devices on smooth, flat surfaces away from residential areas, dry leaves and flammable materials.
Always keep a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of malfunction.
Never try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functioned.
The sale and use of consumer fireworks became legal on Jan. 1, 2012, when the Michigan Fireworks Safety Act, Public Act 256 of 2011, went into effect. Low impact fireworks and ground-based items, such as sparkers, toy snakes, snaps and poppers remain legal for sale and use.
A list of legal consumer fireworks, legal low impact fireworks and novelties is outlined here.
To learn more about fireworks safety, the Michigan Fireworks Safety Act or state-certified fireworks retailers, go to the Bureau of Fire Services website here.
While society has taken great strides toward acceptance of LGBT citizens, what remains invisible are the issues and challenges that LGBT adults face as they begin to age. Too often, LGBT seniors have felt the need to go back ‘into the closet’ in order to receive services or deny themselves much need care in order to avoid having to do so. The LGBT Initiative, funded by the Michigan Health Endowment grant, is seeking to change that for LGBT seniors throughout the state of Michigan, by creating safe channels for LGBT older adults to seek services.
West Michigan is one of the three regions where this effort is taking place. Kendrick Heinlein, AAAWM Contract Administrator, is heading up this project for Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan.
“Right now, the LGBT initiative is looking at different outreach strategies to reach members of the LGBT community” Heinlein states. Working with the other two regions: the Upper Peninsula and the Bay City/Saginaw region of the state, committee members recognize what works for Grand Rapids doesn’t necessarily work for the U.P., so finding the best methods for each region is the current focus.
Heinlein says, “We want to provide resources and reduce isolation for LGBT seniors and we’re working on the best strategies to go about that.”
There are currently about 1.5 million people age 65+ who identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual. There are also many aging LGBT people who live alone, without family to help with the aging process. This puts many LGBT seniors in the position of requiring income-based aging services available in their communities. Needing to ask for help though is often a difficult experience for these seniors.
Older adults who are LGBT don’t often find a warm welcome when they begin to participate in aging services. Sometimes this is due to the discrimination they encounter when seeking services; most times though, it is not hostility but cultural assumptions that can cause LGBT seniors to be reluctant to ask for help. An intake form might ask questions about marriage and children, but not about same-sex partnerships. A senior might be asked about their racial identification or religion, but not gender or sexual orientation.
Many older LGBT seniors carry with them memories of a time when they lost jobs, homes and family for being gay and could be jailed or committed to an asylum for being different. Because many seniors don’t want to “go back into the closet” but fear discrimination, they will avoid asking for help, which can result in a health crisis. This is what the LGBT initiative is working to alleviate. Through outreach to community service providers, AAAWM in partnership with the Grand Rapids Pride Center is in the process of creating a resource guide of senior service providers in West Michigan who are LGBT-friendly.
Anyone can call themselves LGBT-friendly, but what this means in terms of the LGBT initiative is that each provider in the LGBT Senior Resource Guide will be vetted to insure they will provide equal services to LGBT older adults that they would to any other seniors,
“A majority of providers are open to serving LGBT clients,” Heinlein highlights. “A lot of providers have been serving the LGBT community and consider being part of the guide recognition for services they have been providing all along.” By creating this resource guide, the committee hopes to provide safe avenues for LGBT older adults to find the services they need to age gracefully like their peers.
The debut of the LGBT Senior Resource Guide will occur at the Grand Rapids Pride Festival on June 16, 2018, beginning at 12 pm. AAAWM will have the guides available at their vendor table and they encourage people to stop by and take a look.
If you’d like to learn more about this project, contact Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at (888) 456-5664 or email aaainfo@aaawm.org. To learn about their services, you can visit their website: http://www.aaawm.org.
Maybe the best known of the headliners at this summer’s City of Kentwood Summer Concert series are West Michigan favorites The Crane Wives, May Erlewine and The Moxie Strings.
But, starting with The Adams Family coming to town next week, there is not a sour note in a series that will feature an eclectic mix of indie, folk, country, blues and rock music.
The Summer Concert Series offers free concerts and family entertainment on select Thursday nights from June to August. All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, located at 4900 Breton Road SE.
In addition to a variety of music, the concerts offer a variety of food trucks at each concert offering food and beverages for purchase. Concert-goers are also encouraged to bring a blanket or their chair, and are welcome to bring their own beer or wine.
“One of the best ways to embrace the warm weather with family and friends is to relax and unwind with live music outdoors,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “We are thrilled with our lineup for this year’s summer concert series, and welcome concert-goers of all ages to celebrate summer in Kentwood with us.”
Opening the series, The Adams Family play a blend of folk, doo-wop and classic rock by members Jerry Adams, Brian Adams, Cindy Adams Kropf and Dale Kropf. The band is out of Lowell and describe themselves as an “acoustic folkin’ rock” band.
“When you hear the intricate vocal blend that only close relatives can create, there’s no mistaking that The Adams Family really is a family,” a statement on the band’s website reads. “The band features three lead vocalists: Cindy Adams Kropf, her brother Jerry Adams, and Jerry’s son Brian Adams. Rounding out the group is Cindy’s husband, Dale Kropf, on bass and background vocals.”
For more information on the City of Kentwood Summer Concert Series, visit here.
These concerts are cable rebroadcast on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99, usually on the following Tuesday at 9 p.m. and Saturday at 12:30 p.m. (or following the rebroadcast of a City of Wyoming summer concert. See WKTVjournal.org for complete feature broadcast schedules.
The Kentwood Police Department wants you to keep cool this summer, and one was is to avoid crime and confrontations.
City of Kentwood
With summer soon upon us, the Kentwood Police Department is offering tips to help protect residents and their property. According to Police Chief Tom Hillen, crime incidents and arrests rise during the summer months.
Tom Hillen (Supplied)
“As the school year comes to an end and the temperature rises, we typically see an increase in criminal activity as more people spend time outside,” Hillen said. “We want to remind Kentwood residents of some precautionary steps they can take to deter crime and protect their families and properties.”
Because theft is a crime of opportunity, Kentwood police recommends residents stay alert and follow basic crime prevention measures. Unlocked doors, open windows and open garage doors all provide a temptation to steal visible valuables. By closing garage doors and windows, locking car doors and concealing valuables, residents can help eliminate opportunities for criminals.
The Police Department also experiences a rise in disorderly conduct calls and arrests, which are related to any behavior that creates a threat or disturbance to others, such as a loud argument or altercation. Hillen says the increase in this type of behavior could be related to how heat can affect irritability.
“When the temperatures spike, so can people’s tempers. Immense heat can add to people’s feelings of stress and irritability — and make them snap. A solution to this is simple: get cool,” Hillen said. “Residents can visit the mall or see a movie where they can relax in an air-conditioned space.”
If families seek to cool down from the summer heat in water, Kentwood police encourages them to keep water safety precautions in mind. Enclose pools, ensure pool gates are locked and do not let young children near any body of water unsupervised.
Other disorderly conduct incidents could be about loud noises or other nuisances.
While enjoying the warm weather, residents are reminded to be courteous of neighbors, and to be aware of curfew ordinances for children.
In the City of Kentwood, anyone under the age of 12 years old must not be in any public place after 10 p.m.; for children older than 12 and younger than 16, the curfew is 11 p.m.; and for minors ages 16 or 17, the curfew is midnight.
“As always, ‘If you see something, say something.’ Together we can help prevent crime, so all can have a safe and enjoyable summer,” Hillen said.
For more information about Kentwood Police Department, visit here.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan kicks off Saturday, June 16, for its 8th annual Olympics-style games in the greater Grand Rapids Area. The opening ceremony for the games will be held at East Kentwood High School on Friday, June 22.
Three new games have already been introduced into the lineup this year, which includes footgolf, archery tag and three shooting events: bb gun, air rifle and air pistol. Along with those events, paintball and the ninja warrior competitions were recently announced as part of the games.
The ninja warrior competition will take place at RockFit Ninja in Rockford on Saturday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The objective of the event is to get from one point to the other dodging obstacles and not touching the ground.
Paintball will take place at TC Paintball in Walker on Sunday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Teams will compete against each other in an indoor arena with built in obstacles.
Events for the opening ceremony will include Skydivers dropping into the football stadium with the American flag, an athlete parade, and the lighting of the cauldron. Overall, the events run from June 16 to Aug. 19.
With registration now open for most of the sporting events, an estimated 8,000 athletes of all ages are expected to compete in this year’s summer games. Visit here to register.
With summer comes a slew of festivals in West Michigan, each entirely unique and memorable. We’re talking about festivals centered around food, beer, art, culture, and more throughout the next few months. With events taking place nearly every week throughout the summer, there’s always something right around the corner for you to experience with these West Michigan festivals.
June Festivals in West Michigan
The Festival of the Arts is a three-day community celebration in downtown Grand Rapids offering art, food, entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. This year’s event is June 1st to 3rd, and will continue the tradition of bringing together the Grand Rapids art community for a summer kick-off. Ongoing for over 40 years, the Festival of the Arts is one of the longest-running festivals in the state.
The Mecosta area is home to festivals throughout the summer. The Lilac Festival is a chance for families to come out and do something fun, as a hometown, family-friendly event from June 1st to 3rd. Return for a summer of festivals, including the Morley Celebration on the Pond, Remus Heritage Days, and Mecosta County Agricultural Fair.
The Charlevoix Craft Beer Festival is a celebration of Michigan craft beer, local food, and entertainment on Saturday, June 2nd. The aim of the festival is to provide patrons the opportunity to enjoy a varied selection of high-quality Michigan craft beer while mingling with friends at the beautiful waterside venue. Attendees are encouraged to venture out and explore downtown Charlevoix’s culinary and retail offerings prior to and after the event.
The band Moxie Strings is set to appear at Cogdal Vineyards in South Haven on Sunday, June 3rd for the Cogdal Vineyards Wine Lovers’ Festival. Attendees can expect a fun experience of high-energy, original, and traditional tunes performed on five-string fiddle and electric cello while enjoying a glass of delicious wine.
Plan a summer fun Girls’ Night Out with Divas Uncorked, the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula Divas Uncorked event on Friday, June 8th. This evening is devoted entirely to women, wine, food, and fun. Enjoy wine and food pairings, giveaways, shopping, and pampering. Bring your entourage, relax, and be fabulous!
Whether you’re looking for a fun and easy family getaway or a big night out on the town with friends, Mt. Pleasant offers a little bit of everything. They have a wide variety of events this summer, kicking off with the Back to the Bricks car show on Friday, June 8th. The following day, craft beer enthusiasts gather for the Mt. Pleasant Craft Beer Festival, showcasing some of Michigan’s greatest brews. There won’t be a dull moment during your trip to Mt. Pleasant.
Feast of the Strawberry Moon is June 9th and 10th in Grand Haven. The event includes reenactments, a kids day, live entertainment, and more as they explore the middleground world that evolved between Europeans and the Native Americans in the Great Lakes Region during the pre-1800 fur trade era.
Grand Haven hosts some of West Michigan’s fan-favorite festivals every summer. The Spring Lake Heritage Festival is June 11th to 16th, and has family fun like no other. The following week is the Grand Haven Art Festival on June 23th and 24th. The event seeks to provide the community and visitors with a unique opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind art, directly from the artists.
Music, boating, arts, and culture are all happening in River Country. Some of the area’s most popular annual events include the Three Rivers Water Fest from June 14th to 16th and Sturgis Fest from June 23rd to 30th. More events include Covered Bridge Days and the Magic Get-Together later in the summer. They have a full event calendar on their website, so check that out if you need to fill your time in southwest Michigan!
The Michigan Maritime Museum presents the 37th Antique & Classic Boat Show on Saturday, June 16th, during Harborfest weekend in South Haven. This event celebrates all kinds of antique and classic small craft from power boats to paddle boats. Woodworkers and collectors alike will show their boats, demonstrations on boat building techniques will be featured, and toy boat building will be available for kids. The aim is to help perpetuate the building, restoration, and use of classic boats and small craft to give participants and the public an entertaining and informative learning experience.
Founders Brewing Company in Grand Rapids is pleased to present to you Founders Fest 2018: A Celebration of Beer and Music on Saturday, June 16th. In its 11th year, Founders Fest continues to marry the finest beer with the tastiest artists from around the country and the world.
Located at the scenic Warren Dunes State Park in Sawyer, the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival brings together the members of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail for a spectacular day in the sand on Saturday, June 16th. The festival will feature fantastic regional live music, food trucks, and local restaurants to pair with the world-class wines produced right in southwest Michigan.
Whitehall is home to the 40th Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts. The festival is expected to draw thousands of people this Father’s Day weekend on June 16th and 17th. Creative artists will participate in this very popular juried art show, and attendees can purchase a variety of hand-made art and crafts such as jewelry, wood furniture, birdhouses, ceramics, and more. A great lineup of musicians will entertain the crowds throughout the weekend.
The 9th Annual Traverse City Wine & Cider Festival is Saturday, June 24th. Come celebrate local wine, food, and culture. The festival brings together a true taste of the region with great wines, art, food trucks, and live musical entertainment all in one location!
Visit Lansing for the 19th Annual Common Ground Music Festival from June 28th to July 1st! See some of the best rock, pop, country, and hip-hop stars in the world take the stage in downtown Lansing along the Grand River in a setting unlike any other.
June in Battle Creek means it’s time for the Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival from June 28th to July 4th. Balloon launches or fly-ins take place every night (weather dependent) and air shows take place at noon.
The Soo Locks Engineers Weekend begins on Friday, June 29th in Sault Ste. Marie. This fun weekend offers exclusive access to some of the area’s historic and interesting attractions such as the Locks and the Cloverland Electric Hydroelectric Power Plant.
The 60th annual South Haven Art Fair hosted by the South Haven Center for the Arts is a two-day juried festival held one block from the Lake Michigan shore in picturesque Stanley Johnson Park on June 30th and July 1st. This year’s unique blend of talent includes works in acrylic, oil, watercolor, pastel, drawing, sculpture, photography, glass, wood, clay, and wearable art. Admission is free for this two-day event.
The National Cherry Festival brings people from all over the world to Traverse City for a week-long celebration surrounding the cherry. Not only that, it attracts people from all over Michigan, the five-county area, and even just across the street to participate in activities. Come celebrate the Cherry Capital of the World from June 30th to July 7th for another year of food, drink, entertainment, and tradition!
Memorial Day ceremonies planned for both Kentwood, Wyoming
Many communities will be honoring those who have given their lives to serve this Memorial Day, set for May 28, including the communities of Wyoming and Kentwood. More details here.
Woodland Mall’s ongoing redevelopment includes viewing wall, relocations
The redevelopment of Woodland Mall is in full swing, and shoppers will soon be able to get a front-row seat to the construction at a new viewing wall. Read all about it here.
West Michigan Tourist Association offers up a few unique summer camps
Some families probably already have their children’s summer camps selected, but in case you do not, West Michigan Tourist Association Marketing Manager Jeremy Witt offered a few suggestions during a recent visit visit to the WKTV Journal. Learn more here.
Museum school students create new exhibit ‘Revolution: The Story of America’
Check out the new exhibit created by GRPS Museum School students, titled Revolution: The Story of America, at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM). It opened May 23. (The Museum is closed Monday, May 28th.) More here.
Register now for June 4 Sibling Class at Metro Health
Have kids and expecting a new addition to your family? Register for this class. Children practice caring for a baby using dolls, make a card for their new baby, and have fun with a short tour, which includes a visit to a mom with her real newborn baby. Next class is coming up fast: June 4th. Go here to learn more and where to register.
The mall has installed a 24-foot by 36-foot graphic wall depicting what the extended wing, which will house destination retailer Von Maur, will look like when it is completed. (Supplied)
By Woodland Mall
The redevelopment of Woodland Mall is in full swing, and shoppers will soon be able to get a front-row seat to the construction at a new viewing wall.
Woodland Mall has begun the installation of viewing windows where shoppers can follow along behind-the-scenes as the remainder of the former Sears store is torn down and the extended wing starts construction. The viewing windows will give shoppers a close-up of construction from inside the mall.
The mall has also installed a 24-foot by 36-foot graphic wall depicting what the extended wing, which will house destination retailer Von Maur, will look like when it is completed. Additionally, shoppers will see relocations and expansions of existing retailers in 2018, as well as new store announcements.
“Shoppers will see a lot of relocations, additions and expansions in the coming months as we enhance our premium shopping experience,” said Lyndsey Hicks, marketing director. “The expansion of longtime retailers is only the beginning of many exciting changes leading into 2019 when Von Maur and other yet-to-be announced retailers will open their doors.”
Throughout 2018, shoppers can expect to see more changes, including new store announcements, as Woodland Mall continues its redevelopment.
Victoria’s Secret will move and expand into an 11,506-square-foot space that is closer to center court. The new store is scheduled to open in September of this year. Victoria’s Secret will temporarily relocate to the Macy’s wing while the new store is built out. The retailer carries fashion-inspired lingerie collections, comfortable sleepwear, athletic wear, beauty products and cosmetics.
Shoe Dept. will also move, rebrand and expand into a larger store by late summer. The new Shoe Dept. Encore will nearly double in size, expanding from 6,500-square-feet to an 11,000-square-foot space, also in the Macy’s wing. The retailer carries popular-price brands of shoes for women, men and children, including Adidas, Converse, Reaction by Kenneth Cole, Nike, Timberland and more. Shoe Dept. Encore also carries handbags, accessories and shoe care products.
Zason Latino Mexican Grill recently opened in the Cafés in the Woods between Sbarro and Suki Hana. The Mexican grill is a local venture offering burritos, tacos, nachos, bowls and salads at all spice levels, along with a special children’s menu.
LUSH, Apple and J.Jill have already completed their expansions and relocations. Vans and Torrid opened in Woodland Mall within the past year.
May is when the baseball and softball schedule is reaching their season peaks, and (weather permitting) the WKTV feature coverage team will be at two key baseball games this week, one at Zion Christian High School and another at East Kentwood High School.
The tentative schedule for this week follows below but show your support of the athletes and catch a game or two in-person, and then watch the replay.
Tuesday, May 22 — Boys Baseball West Michigan Aviation vs Zion Christian
Wednesday, May 23 — Boys Baseball Grandville vs East Kentwood
These and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.
This week, WKTV’s featured Tuesday game will be aired that night at 11 p.m. and repeat Wednesdays at5 p.m. The Wednesday game will be broadcast Friday at 11 p.m. and Saturday starting at 11 a.m., followed by another showing of the Tuesday game, at about 12:30 p.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports weekly for complete feature broadcast schedules.
WKTV’s coverage of high school sports and community events are also available on-demand within a week of the event at wktvondemand.com.
The complete local high school sports schedule through the end of the month is as follows:
Monday, May 21
Boys Baseball
FH Eastern @ South Christian (DH)
West Michigan Aviation @ Wyoming Lee
Middleville T-K @ Wyoming (DH)
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
East Kentwood @ Grandville (DH)
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Boys Golf
South Christian @ Christian – OK Gold Conference Tournament @ Thornapple Pointe
Wyoming @ Christian – OK Gold Conference Tournament @ Thornapple Pointe
Kelloggsville @ Ottawa Hills
East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Girls Softball
FH Eastern @ South Christian (DH)
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K (DH)
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian (DH)
East Kentwood @ Grandville (DH)
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Girls Soccer
Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
Christian @ Wyoming
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
East Kentwood @ Rockford
Grand River Prep @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
Tuesday, May 22
Girls Soccer
South Christian @ Christian
East Kentwood @ Grandville
Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
Zion Christian @ West Michigan Aviation
Girls Softball
South Christian @ South Haven (DH)
Belding @ Godwin Heights
Boys Baseball
Belding @ Godwin Heights
West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian (DH) – WKTV Featured Game
Boys Golf
Tri-Unity Christian @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
Wednesday, May 23
Boys Baseball
Saugatuck @ Wyoming Lee
Middleville T-K @ Wyoming
NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
Grandville @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Gam
Girls Softball
Saugatuck @ Wyoming Lee
NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
Girls Soccer
Middleville T-K @ Wyoming
Muskegon Catholic Central @ Grand River Prep
Boys Golf
Wyoming @ Muskegon Catholic Central
Boys/Girls Track
East Kentwood @ Comstock Park
Thursday, May 24
Boys Baseball
South Christian @ FH Eastern
Boys Golf
South Christian @ Holland Christian
Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian
Girls Soccer
South Christian @ FH Eastern
Grand River Prep @ Kelloggsville
Zion Christian @ Holland Black River
West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian
Girls Softball
Ottawa Hills @ Godwin Heights
Friday, May 25
Boys Baseball
Wyoming Lee @ Union
Wyoming @ Zeeland West (DH)
Godwin Heights @ Union
Crossroads Charter Academy @ Zion Christian (DH)
West Michigan Aviation @ Belding (DH)
Girls Soccer
Wyoming @ West Ottawa
Zion Christian @ Ravenna
Hudsonville Hornets @ West Michigan Aviation
Saturday, May 26
Boys/Girls Track
East Kentwood @ Wyandotte – MITCA State Meet
Monday, May 28
MEMORIAL DAY
Tuesday, May 29
Girls Soccer
Comstock Park @ Wyoming Lee – MHSAA Districts
TBA @ East Kentwood – MHSAA Districts
Tri-Unity Christian @ NorthPointe Christian – MHSAA Districts
Zion Christian @ Calvin Christian – MHSAA Districts
Boys Baseball
West Ottawa @ Wyoming – MHSAA State Districts
Zion Christian @ Fowler
Girls Softball
TBA @ Wyoming – MHSAA State Pre-Districts
Wednesday, May 30
Boys Golf
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – MHSAA State Regionals
Thursday, May 31
Boys Golf
Kelloggsville @ South Haven – MHSAA State Regionals
Tri-Unity Christian @ Muskegon Catholic Central – MHSAA State Regionals
The Meyer May House maybe the most famous house in Grand Rapids, but there are many grand homes in Heritage Hill that you can check out this weekend. (Supplied)
Wyoming: Honor a local hero by attending his statue unveiling
Roger B. Chaffee Photo courtesy of the Grand Rapids Public Museum
While the City of Wyoming has a Roger B. Chaffee Boulevard and an American Legion Roger B. Chaffee Post 154, the hero’s home town was Grand Rapids. So, a full-sized bronze statue of Apollo Astronaut Roger B. Chaffee will be unveiled at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 19, at the corner of East Fulton Street and Sheldon Avenue NE, near the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum.
Kentwood: While you are out having fun, avoid this roadwork in town
The City Commission recently approved the city’s resurfacing and maintenance program, which includes improvements to 22 miles of major and local roads. We have your list of where to avoid when you are out and about in the city this week: a tentative road construction and maintenance schedule for the summer.
Grand Rapids: Heritage Hill’s annual open house weekend his here
The Annual Heritage Hill Tour welcomes you inside seven restored private houses and three historic buildings. (Supplied)
The Annual Heritage Hill Tour welcomes you inside seven restored private houses and three historic buildings on Saturday, May 19, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, May 20, from noon to 6 p.m. Tour offers an interior view of stunning turn of the century homes each uniquely styled by current owners.
Wyoming: Big trucks, hotdogs and loads of fun for kids of all ages
Public Works employee Carlos Ochoa shows off one of the trucks that collects leaves. (WKTV File)
The City of Wyoming is celebrating National Public Works Week once again on Monday, May 21, at the Wyoming Public Works Department, 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW. The event that attracts more than 1,500 visitors gives the public the chance to learn about the city’s Public Works Department and its services, meet community members and much more.
Entertainment: The Grand Rapids Symphony offers up Beethoven’s Ninth
Grand Rapids Symphony, conducted by Marcelo Lehninger, will be in concert this weekend. (Supplied/Stu Rosner)
The Grand Rapids Symphony ends its 2017-18 season with Beethoven’s Ninth at 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday, May 18-19, in DeVos Performance Hall. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 is one of the greatest achievements, not only in classical music, but in all of Western culture. Beethoven’s last symphony and his only symphony to use voices began as a defiant statement of freedom hurled at the repressive monarchies of Europe. Today, the finale of Beethoven’sNinth Symphony, is the official anthem of the European Union.
Foot golf is one of the new sports at the Meijer State Games. (by CKGolf)
The Meijer State Games of Michigan kicks off Saturday, June 16, for it’s 8th annual Olympics- style games in the greater Grand Rapids Area. The opening ceremony for the games will be held at East Kentwood High School on Friday, June 22.
Three new games have been introduced into the lineup this year which include footgolf, archery tag and three shooting events: bb gun, air rifle and air pistol.
“I think this will be appealing to people who want to get in the shooting range, be competitive and have some fun,” Ron Carr, the organizer of this year’s shooting events, said in supplied materials.
Footgolf director for the games, Mirza Causevic, described footgolf as “a twist of golf and soccer.” She expects an interest from all age groups with the addition of this new sport.
Events for the opening ceremony will include Skydivers dropping into the football stadium with the American flag, an athlete parade and the lighting of the cauldron. Overall, the events run from June 16 to Aug. 19.
With registration now open for most of the sporting events, an estimated 8,000 athletes of all ages are expected to compete in this years summer games. Visit here to register.
Wyoming: City hires Scott Smith as new city attorney
Scott G. Smith
The Wyoming City Council has hired Scott Smith as its city attorney. Smith will serve as the city’s chief legal advisor, responsible for providing legal services to the City Council, city manager, all departments, and city boards and commissions. He will render legal opinions, prepare contracts, ordinances, resolutions, leases and other documents, and assist in drafting proposed legislation on matters of interest to the City.
Kentwood: The Vibe parks and rec gala coming this week
Katelyn Bush
Community members and friends are invited to attend The Vibe, a Parks and Recreation gala benefiting Kentwood’s Adaptive Sports programs, which provide recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The celebration will take place on Friday, May 18 from 6-10 p.m. at Stonewater Country Club, located at 7177 Kalamazoo Avenue SE in Caledonia.
Government Matters: Ballot measures are headed to a voting booth near you, maybe
Possible Michigan legislative action driven by probable fall ballot measures on prevailing wage and recreational marijuana use was a key part of the discussion Monday, May 14, as part of the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce’s monthly Government Matters meeting held at Kentwood City Hall.
WKTV programs: WKTV Journal offers Newscast and in-depth interviews
WKTV Journal is not only online/print but video programs as well. On the latest episode of WKTV Journal’s newscast, voters for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools pass a sinking millage for the district and the 28th Street Metro Cruise Dust-Off took place. The local farmers markets are preparing to open with Metro Health Farm Market underway and the Kentwood Farmers Market set to start in June.
On the latest episode of WKTV Journal: In Focus is Dr. Rob Davidson, Democratic candidate for Michigan’s District 2 U.S. House seat currently held by Republican Rep. Bill Huizenga. That district includes both the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood.
West Michigan: Meijer Gardens Tuesday evening concerts plays it local
Kathy Lamar and Robin Connell, taken at J D Reardon’s. (Supplied)
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has announced a nine-show lineup for the Tuesday Evening Music Club with a diverse two-month program of live bands ranging from jazz to indie, rock to folk. Taking place on the Gardens’ 1,900-seat amphitheater stage, the Tuesday concerts are free to Meijer Gardens members and include admission throughout July and August.
May is when the baseball and softball schedule is reaching their season peaks, and (weather permitting) the WKTV feature coverage team will be at two key softball games this week, one at Kelloggsville High School and another at South Christian High School.
The tentative schedule for this week and next is below but show your support of the athletes and catch a game or two in-person, and then watch the replay.
Monday, May 14 — Girls Softball Belding vs Kelloggsville
Tuesday, May 15 — Girls Softball Unity Christian vs South Christian
Tuesday, May 22 — Boys Baseball West Michigan Aviation vs Zion Christian
Wednesday, May 23 — Boys Baseball Grandville vs East Kentwood
These and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports. (WKTV)
Typically, WKTV’s featured Monday games will be broadcast that night starting at 11 p.m. and following Wednesday starting at 5 p.m. The Tuesday games will be aired that night at 11 p.m. and repeat Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.; Both games will often be rebroadcast back-to-back on Saturdays starting at 11 a.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports weekly for complete feature broadcast schedules.
WKTV’s coverage of high school sports and community events are also available on-demand within a week of the event at wktvondemand.com.
Monday, May 14
Girls Soccer
East Grand Rapids @ South Christian
Wayland @ Wyoming
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
Godwin Heights @ Belding
West Michigan Aviation @ Tri-Unity Christian
Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Grand River Prep
Girls Tennis
North Muskegon @ South Christian
Boys Baseball
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Belding @ Kelloggsville
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
Girls Softball
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian (DH)
Christian @ Wyoming (DH)
Belding @ Kelloggsville (DH) – WKTV Featured Game
Muskegon Orchard View @ East Kentwood
NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights (DH)
Tuesday, May 15
Boys Baseball
Unity Christian @ South Christian (DH)
Christian @ Wyoming (DH)
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River (DH)
Girls Softball
Unity Christian @ South Christian (DH) – WKTV Featured Game
Girls Soccer
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
Zion Christian @ West Michigan Aviation
Girls Tennis
Muskegon Catholic Central @ Kelloggsville
Boys Golf
East Kentwood – OK Red Jamboree
Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep
Wednesday, May 16
Boys Golf
South Christian @ FH Eastern
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian – OK Silver Conference Tournament
Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
Boys Baseball
Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Kelloggsville @ Belding
East Kentwood @ Loy Norrix (DH)
NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights
Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation
Girls Softball
Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
Girls Soccer
Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
Belding @ Kelloggsville
NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights
Holland Black River @ Tri-Unity Christian
Girls Tennis
Tri-Unity Christian @ Comstock Park
Thursday, May 17
Boys Baseball
South Christian @ Calvin Christian
Wyoming @ Christian
Godwin Heights @ Tri-Unity Christian
West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House
Girls Soccer
Middleville T-K @ South Christian
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
Tri-Unity Christian @ Grand River Prep
Girls Softball
South Christian @ Calvin Christian (DH)
Wyoming @ Hamilton (DH)
Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Hopkins @ Godwin Heights
Boys Golf
Holland @ Wyoming
East Kentwood @ Caledonia
Girls Tennis
Kelloggsville @ Christian – MHSAA State Regionals
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – MHSAA State Regionals
Friday, May 18
Boys Baseball
South Christian vs FH Central @ Cornerstone University (DH)
Potter’s House @ Kelloggsville
Zion Christian @ Fennville (DH)
West Michigan Aviation @ NorthPointe Christian
Boys Golf
Unity Christian @ South Christian
Girls Soccer
Holland Christian @ South Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Wyoming @ Godwin Heights
Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation
Boys/Girls Track
South Christian – MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field
Kelloggsville – MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field
Godwin Heights – MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field
West Michigan Aviation – MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field
East Kentwood @ Lansing Waverly – MHSAA State Regionals
Wyoming – MHSAA State Regionals @ Grand Haven
Girls Softball
East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming Lee
Wyoming @ FH Central
Ottawa Hills @ Kelloggsville (DH)
West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
Comstock Park @ Godwin Heights
Girls Tennis
Wyoming @ Grand Haven – MHSAA State Regionals
Girls Water Polo
@ East Kentwood – MHSAA State Regionals
Saturday, May 19
Girls Softball
South Christian @ Otsego
Wyoming Lee @ Saranac
Boys/Girls Track
Wyoming Lee – MHSAA State Regionals @ TBD
East Kentwood @ Lansing Waverly – MHSAA State Regionals
Boys Baseball
Wyoming Lee @ Saranac
Calvin Christian @ Wyoming (DH)
Lakeview @ East Kentwood (DH)
West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian
Girls Water Polo
@ East Kentwood – MHSAA State Regionals
Monday, May 21
Boys Baseball
FH Eastern @ South Christian (DH)
West Michigan Aviation @ Wyoming Lee
Middleville T-K @ Wyoming (DH)
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
East Kentwood @ Grandville (DH)
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Boys Golf
South Christian @ Christian – OK Gold Conference Tournament @ Thornapple Pointe
Wyoming @ Christian – OK Gold Conference Tournament @ Thornapple Pointe
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has announced a nine-show lineup for the Tuesday Evening Music Club with a diverse two-month program of live bands ranging from jazz to indie, rock to folk.
Taking place on the Gardens’ 1,900-seat amphitheater stage, the Tuesday concerts are free to Meijer Gardens members and include admission throughout July and August.
The line-up and show dates/times are as follows:
Hannah Rose and the GravesTones, with Rachel Curtis; July 3 at 7 p.m. Hannah Rose and the GravesTones offers a combination of funk, blues, country, jazz, and rock & roll, led by a songstress with a voice all her own. Rachel Curtis, a vocalist and 2018 American Idol contestant, will be backed by her band.
The Kathy Lamar and Robin Connell Band, and Soul Syndicate; July 10 at 7 p.m. The Kathy Lamar and Robin Connell Band will feature Kathy singing and Robin on the keys, with a blend of R&B, soul and pop and a tinge of jazz. Soul Syndicate is a cadre of the region’s most talented musicians, doing more than justice to the likes of Otis Redding, Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and more.
The Eric Engblade Quartet, with Wire in the Wood; July 17 at 7 p.m. The Eric Engblade Quartet, led by award winning singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Eric Engbland, has been called “folk rock with teeth.” Wire in the Wood is an eclectic selection of traditional and modern covers in the style of prog-bluegrass.
Valley Girl, with The Hacky Turtles; July 24 at 7 p.m. Valley Girl offers upbeat, indie-pop with reminiscences of 1980s’ synth. The Hacky Turtles offer a unique alternative rock with forays into folk and funk.
Lipstick Jodi, with Hollywood Makeout; July 31 at 7 p.m. Lipstick Jodi is an indie, alt-pop trio with a slight punk edge. Hollywood Makeout is an energetic punch of alternative rock, pop, garage and surf.
Nessa, with The Moxie Strings; August 7 at 7 p.m. Nessa offer a combination of classical, jazz, and Celtic influences, led by flutist and vocalist Kelly McDermott. The Moxie Strings offer a foot-stomping, rock-influenced, progressive spin on traditional Celtic and Americana classics and originals.
Franklin Park, with a Six Pak; August 14 at 7 p.m. Franklin Park, which reunited in 2010, are former classmates from 1969 and perform spot-on renditions of The Beatles, The Birds, The Rascals and more. Six Pak is a legendary all girl band, originally formed in 1967, performing the grooviest hits from that era.
Watching for Foxes, with Desmond Jones; August 21 at 7 p.m. Watching for Foxes is an Indie-folk rock driven by powerful, haunting vocals. Desmond Jones is a fusion of funk, rock and jazz, centered around melodic guitar riffs.
And the annual finale, will be Ralston & Friends; August 28 at 7 p.m. Local legend Ralston Bowles shares the stage with friends and collaborators from the community and beyond. A perfect end to a summer of musical fun.
Concertgoers are welcome to bring a blanket or beach-style chair to sit on. All concerts take place rain or shine (weather delays possible). A selection of sandwiches, snacks, water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available at the concessions counter. All beverages purchased onsite must be consumed inside the amphitheater gates.
Concertgoers are also welcomed to bring their own food, bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages. No glass containers are allowed. All beverages must be in their original sealed containers; any liquids in unsealed containers must be discarded at the gate before entering.
The amphitheater is currently being expanded and upgraded. The work is taking place over two years. Work on phase one will conclude for the presentation of the 2018 season and then resume to be fully ready for the 2019 season.
The Lee High School girls soccer team, on Saturday, May 12, will host its first Copa Rebelde — Rebel Cup, for those of you not bilingual, which most of coach Gabriel Snyder’s team is.
And while the event should feature some great tournament soccer action, it will also be a community celebration of sorts.
“We are lucky to have a team and community that can embrace their cultural heritage as much as they do,” coach Snyder said to WKTV. “Copa is ultimately just a word but that word represents more than a tournament cup. It represents our small community’s strong ties with Latin America.
“This event also brings in a community of athletes and their families because baseball and softball are playing tournaments on the same day. It will be a great day to be a Rebel.”
The Copa Rebelde field will feature the Lee varsity team hosting teams from West Michigan Aviation Academy and Wyoming Potter’s House Christian High School.
The schedule has Potter’s House vs Lee at 10 a.m., WMAA vs Potter’s House at 11:30 a.m., and Lee vs WMAA at 1 p.m.
Each contest will be 60-minute games, 30-minute halves with a 10 minute halftime. There will be no overtime, with tie games decided by penalty shoot out. The tournament champion will be determined by record, then point differential/shoot out victory.
The tournament counts as one game date against each team’s schedule per MHSAA guidelines.
This is not the first time Lee has hosted the Copa Rebelde, but the first time it was not a boys team tournament.
“We have hosted a boys tournament in the fall the last several years and decided it was high time we held one for our girls as well,” said John Cain, assistant athletic director at Lee.
“To the girls, it is an opportunity to play competitive soccer in a different format,” Snyder said. “This year’s team has not found a lot of success on the field but has shown a ton of leadership on and off the field. For them it is just another opportunity to showcase that leadership. I am excited to finally give them an opportunity for tourney play at our home field.”
While the Lee varsity team has a “rely on everyone approach. We do have a couple of surprising standouts this year,” Snyder said. “Kristy Medina is our primary forward; she is fast and can make you miss. She is a calm leader.
“Our entire starting defense — Jazmin Pena, Karina Lopez, Yesenia Santos, and Vanessa Camargo — have played the hardest on our team this year. Long games of multiple shots, these four are bruised up and still tough.
“Lastly, our keeper, Jennifer Hernandez. She moved up from JV in the beginning of the year and has really improved as the season has moved along.”
We Have Teeth and We Vote!
Online taxes, election security, county mental health on agenda at Chamber’s Government Matters
Pet-friendly vacations for all West Michigan dog-lovers
