Category Archives: Recreation

‘Five weddings and an engagement’ all on Valentine’s Day

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Holidays, Recreation
  • Morenas Event Venue is located in Kentwood. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
  • Setting the stage. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
  • Heading down the aisle. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)

By D.A. Reed
WKTC Contributor

“I’m feeling good,” said Chloe Kimber (soon-to-be Jenne) as she stood in the Morenas Event Venue bridal room waiting for her wedding to begin. “I’m sure I’ll be nervous once I get up there.”

Chloe, however, looked anything but nervous. Smiling and appearing completely at ease, she held her bouquet of flowers loosely as she talked with her mother.

Officiant Zara Northover presides over the wedding of Chloe Kimber and Alexander Jenne. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)

High school sweethearts, Chloe and fiancée Alexander Jenne decided to participate in Morenas Mini-Mony Day on Feb. 14 after her mother sent her the link from a news article, leaving the couple only a month to prepare.

Even though Chloe and Alexander planned for a 2024 wedding, Chloe shrugged and said, “Why wait?”

The bride admitted that she didn’t have any specific “wants” for her wedding, so Mini-Mony Day worked well for the couple. When asked where Chloe found her elegant knee-length dress, she laughed and struck a pose as she responded, “Amazon. Same day delivery.”

Chloe and Alexander were the first to get married at Morenas Event Venue, the upscale event space in Kentwood, on Valentine’s Day. Couples were offered a luxury high-end event for only $50.

“We understand that some couples are looking to have a nice wedding but are not in the position to pay the hefty price tag that can entail,” Britney Hoskins, owner of Morenas Event Venue, said in supplied material.

Hoskins launched Mini-Mony Day on Jan. 1, organizing the entire event in just a few weeks.

The idea came to Hoskins while designing a photoshoot. “This is my specialty,” said Hoskins. “I do huge, grandiose setup(s), and then nobody sees it until it’s in a magazine. I thought, this year, what if we leave up our shoot for people to get married on Valentine’s Day? We were already doing something beautiful and decided to let people utilize it to actually get married.”

Britney Hoskins, owner of Morenas (WKTV/D.A. Reed)

Hoskins adorned the 5,000 square foot event space with white, gold, and red, including a lavish ceiling installation valued at $10,000. Heavenly Designs supplied lighted signs and balloons, and BD’s Dysfunktional Entertainment provided music.

Officiant Zara Northover drove in from Detroit to marry the five couples who participated in Mini-Mony Day, Charla Dee Photos provided photography services, and BreAna Harris created mini cakes for each couple.

Mini-Mony Day saw five couples joined in marriage, and one proposal, with Hoskins overseeing it all and making sure things ran smoothly and that clients were comfortable.

Within a span of 30 minutes, couples were treated to a wedding ceremony, signing of the marriage license, mini cakes, a first dance, a group family dance, and photographs—all provided by vendors at virtually no cost to the couples.

“The vendors are just as important today (as the couples) because they are giving of their time and energy,” said Hoskins. “They are excited to be here for these couples, and that makes the whole ambiance so different.”

Giving back to the community is important to Hoskins, even though it might not always be easy

For many business owners, giving away free products and services isn’t a viable option. What Hoskins found among this group of vendors was a willingness to give freely.

“No one did the bare minimum,” Hoskins said. “All of us gave our best versions, and that makes it so much more special.”

Chloe Kimber and Alexander Jenne feed each other cake. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)

“This is a feel-good (event),” Hoskins continued. “In business, mostly everything is about money. Sometimes we just get to give the feel-good moments, and I’m really excited about that.”

Hoskins’s desire to create memorable events for people shows in her thoughtful design of Morenas Event Venue.

“I’ve done this for eight years,” said Hoskins, “so when I designed Morenas, I genuinely tried to think of all the ‘woes’.”

Private rooms for the bride and groom that are easily accessible all day long were a must-have on Hoskins’s list. “(Often) our brides will disappear from the chaos and take a moment to breathe,” Hoskins said.

Rooms for caterers to store food, a back door for vendors to enter and exit discreetly, a glass bay door, and ample parking were all carefully thought out in the design.

Morenas Event Venue isn’t Hoskins’s first foray into business

Hoskins founded Allure Limousine in 2013 and currently owns a Detroit-based award-winning event planning company called The Top Pic Collective.

Top Pic also encompasses The Luxe Rental Collective, a 7,000 square foot warehouse in Sterling Heights where she rents supplies to other designers and brides who want to DIY. “It’s a designer’s haven,” said Hoskins.

Splitting her time between Grand Rapids and Detroit, Hoskins said that Morenas Mini-Mony Day was special to her because she was there to see it all.

“I don’t always get to see my weddings,” Hoskins said. “It’s actually a rarity. I come and set up before the bride ever sees it and tear down after the bride has left, so a lot of times I never get to meet them. So when I get to stick around to see the weddings, I am emotional.”

Helping others create memorable events is Hoskins’s way of sharing the blessings she has been given in the business world: “Giving back to the community is really important to me.”

For more information on events and inventory rentals at Morenas Event Venue, visit www.morenasgr.com.

D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author

Upcoming Lenger’s Video Series program features popular video by Sid Lenger

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Recreation, Senior Living, ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Sid Lenger

The Wednesday’s Mr. Sid’s Video Series will feature an original video by Sid and Beulah Lenger.

The video is “America Then,” which will be followed by a presentation by Mike Martin on “Presidents We Need to Especially Remember in 2023.”

Mr. Sid’s Video Series is Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 2 p.m. at Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW. There is a 15-minute hymn sing that starts at 1:45 p.m.

The program is hosted by friends of Sid Lenger, who was a Wyoming residents and World War II veteran. Lenger died in 2003 at the age of 100.

The series runs every third Wednesday of the month. Upcoming presentations are:

March 15: WOTV’s Terri DeBoer will lead discussions of her new book “Grieving Well: A Healing Journey Through the Seasons of Grief”

April 19: Will feature several immigrants sharing their stories of hopes and challenges and adjusting to a new world.

May 10: Grand Valley State University History Professor and Director of GVSU’s Veteran History Project James Smither will present “Death and Life in the Big Red One: A Soldiers Journey from North Africa to Germany.”

Engaging Wellness kickoff encourages community and fitness

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Health, Recreation, ,

By Emily Armstrong
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan

We know how critical movement and strengthening classes are for older adults. Studies show that incorporating a balance and exercise program can help prevent falls, leading to maintaining independence. Throughout the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s nine-county region (Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties) evidence-based classes are offered through a number of partners. Recently, we have worked to encompass the entire area and it’s healthy aging classes into a cohesive and consistent branding through a new name: “Engaging Wellness.”

The Engaging Wellness community is comprised of the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, Grand Rapids Community College, Ionia County Commission on Aging, Ludington Senior Center, Mecosta County Commission on Aging, Osceola County Commission on Aging, The Salvation Army, Senior Neighbors, and St. Ann’s Senior Services. All programs are designed specifically for older adults and these partners are dedicated to helping them stay active and independent.

Engaging Wellness programs focus on aging with resilience for fun, fitness, falls prevention, and friendship. Wherever they live or take classes, we want participants to recognize they are part of this Engaging Wellness collective that is committed to the same set of standards and quality classes while meeting seniors where they are on their fitness journey.

Yoga is just one of the options offered in the Engaging Wellness. (Pxhere.com)

“We’re so thrilled to restructure our classes under the Engaging Wellness brand,” shared Barb Nelson Jandernoa, Healthy Aging Contract Administrator with the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan. “This will give older adults in our area a boutique fitness experience where they are understood, heard, and seen. These classes, our wonderful instructors, and, of course, our amazing seniors help make up the vibrant community of Engaging Wellness. We’re excited for what is to come.”

Engaging Wellness classes are offered throughout the region both in person and online so that participants can take classes that are the best fit for them. A Matter of Balance and the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program will give folks just beginning to exercise, or those recovering from illness or injury, a place to start. Yoga, EnhanceFitness, Tai Chi, and Silver Sneakers Circuit are other classes that will help build endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. Class fees and Silver Sneakers certification vary by location.

Those interested should check out the classes in their area. For more information, call 616-588-2580 to be connected with the partner in your county. To participate in Engaging Wellness classes, participants must be over 60 years of age and live in one of the following nine counties: Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, or Osceola. 

Public Museum’s new game is a little ‘fishy’

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Recreation, , ,

By Adam Brown
WKTV Contributor

The sturgeon tank at the Grand Rapids Public Museum is located on the top floor with a window overlooking the Grand River. (WKTV/Adam Brown)

A new immersive experience for the whole family has arrived at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The Sturgeon Excursion, the first interactive virtual game built on the museum’s new PublicOS platform, is now open to the public.

The Sturgeon Excursion is an element of the larger aquatic exhibit known as Grand Fish, Grand River. Chief Curator Alex Forist said the exhibit tells the story of lake sturgeon and their unique role in the watershed and native culture of the region. In addition, Grand Fish, Grand River seeks to educate the public about threats faced by the lake sturgeon, including how they have become endangered due to overharvesting and what the public can do to help.

Sturgeon Excursion is a natural extension of that educational mission. Patrons may visit Grand Fish, Grand River to read about lake sturgeon, with the interactive game as an option for those visitors looking for a deeper dive and a way to interact personally.

“Human beings are social learners,” said GRPM Digital Strategist Josh Freeney. “We like learning with other humans, that’s why a place like a museum is so amazing.”

Simply put, a museum is a place to share a learning experience with others since we all experience the exhibits together. The digital game enhances that experience by immersing patrons in the exhibit’s distinct world.

What is the Sturgeon Excursion game?

To play the Sturgeon Excursion, GRPM guests can scan any of the QR codes around the exhibit with their personal devices. Then, players are given a virtual sturgeon and tasked with helping it swim to freedom by traveling down the Grand River into Lake Michigan. The game asks questions, which the player can answer by watching a brief video or reading the information around the room. Each correct answer gives the player a piece of virtual food to feed the sturgeon. Give the sturgeon enough food, and it will grow big enough to swim to freedom.

Screenshot of the online game available on the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s website. (WKTV)

The Sturgeon Excursion is not limited to Grand Fish, Grand River. To get enough food to free the sturgeon, players must also visit two other exhibits – West Michigan Habitats and Anishinabek: The People of This Place. Players learn about the sturgeon and answer questions through the context of these other exhibits, with the Anishinabek exhibit adding the historical factor.

There is a single-player option intended for members of the general public, where one patron plays the game on their own device. The game also features a multiplayer component that the GRPM designs for student groups from local schools. With this method, all players collaborate and share one sturgeon. Multiplayer encourages students to work and learn together to help the sturgeon get to Lake Michigan.

Per Freeney, the GRPM hopes to make the multiplayer version more accessible to the general public, which is why they encourage the public to play the game and give feedback on what works and what might not. In addition, the QR code method was designed to increase accessibility, allowing anyone with any device to play the game.

The Public Response

The public response to the Sturgeon Excursion game and greater Grand Fish, Grand River exhibit has been positive overall. Freeney highlights one instance of a school group acting particularly rowdy, then working together to help the virtual fish when given the tasks of the digital game. Also, when quizzed about what they learned at the end of the game, the group answered every question correctly.

Participants answer a series of questions to move through different levels in the game. (WKTV)

Freeney attributes this to the “game-ified” nature of the experience, as it is still a quiz but disguised as a scavenger hunt-type game. As a result, the students learn valuable information all through the lens of a fun, interactive virtual game.

All the information in the game is available around the exhibit’s room. However, it’s the presentation of that material that matters. Each person learns differently, and younger students learn better when playing a game versus reading books and facts.

What the Future Holds

Ultimately, Forist said he hopes that the game, coupled with the related exhibits and historical context, can one day be taken out of the museum into the community to increase public awareness.

“Eventually, this will help us break outside of the walls of the museum altogether. There’s all kinds of great content and learning opportunities in the community,” Forist said. “If we can still bring that museum quality experience to those, it’s unlimited where you could go with it.”

 

The GRPM’s digital platform allows for easy communication and collaboration between the museum, the local community, and other institutions sharing the same mission.

A remote version of the game is also available for those who cannot make it to the museum. Originally developed as a contingency after Covid-19 closed the museum, the remote game remains available and follows a similar setup as the in-person game. Schools can log on to the game remotely and work together to answer the questions, and single players can access the game from home, at work, or wherever they might be. The remote game features a virtual map of the museum, complete with models of the accompanying exhibits, so all of the information from the museum is accessible to those who cannot physically attend.

 

With the remote option, each person can learn in whatever way suits them best, whether by physically coming in or remaining in the comfort of their home. The public can access the remote version by visiting the Grand Fish, Grand River page on the GRPM’s website.

Discovering the art of beauty in the Heartside district

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Recreation,

By Maddy Visscher
ArtrRat Gallery

Are you looking to make positive changes in the new year? Self-care is always a great resolution. If you’re in the market for styling and pampering, Grand Rapids’ Heartside neighborhood offers a palette of beautifying businesses within a five-minute walk of ArtRat Gallery (46 Division Ave. South).

Owner Laura Signore at Lilith’s Lair (Courtesy, ArtRat)

Like the neighborhood itself, Heartside’s salons and stylists offer everything from classic elegance to the cutting edge. Since it opened 10 months ago, Lilith’s Lair (25 Division Ave. S) has set the standard for coloring outside the lines. The rainbow-colored basement salon invites you to come as you are and connect with a look that expresses your identity.

Owner Laura Signore described the underground salon as “creepy cute. It’s basically a permanent spot for my Halloween decorations.”

In addition to nine independently contracted stylists, Lilith’s Lair provides shelf space for the products of half a dozen local artists, including adorably weird stickers, prints and handmade lashes. “It’s a total sensory experience,” Laura said.

“It isn’t about reinventing yourself,” Laura told ArtRat. “It’s about being who you have always been meant to be!

“I’ve seen people walk in here with natural blonde hair and leave with a head of rainbows. It may take nine hours, but it’s always a blast.”

“It isn’t about reinventing yourself,” Laura told ArtRat. “It’s about being who you have always been meant to be! (Courtesy, ArtRat)

The rainbow walls aren’t just for show: Every stylist in the shop is part of the LGBTQ+ community. (But Laura promises they “won’t check your gay cards,” and everyone is welcome.) 

The stylists at Lillith’s Lair offer options that range from natural or vivid color, voluminous layers, and short, spicy cuts; to hair and lash extensions; to tinsel and glitter spray. “There’s something for everyone!” Laura exclaimed.

The stylists at Lillith’s Lair offer options that range from natural or vivid color, voluminous layers, and short, spicy cuts; to hair and lash extensions; to tinsel and glitter spray. “There’s something for everyone!” Laura exclaimed.

Lilith’s Lair provides shelf space for the products of half a dozen local artists. (Courtesy, ArtRat)

“In 2022, we were so blessed to find stability, and in 2023 we want to do so much. We’re excited to participate in our community more and more. We want to interact with local organizations, like The Diatribe. We want to have more events, like we did on Halloween and New Year’s Eve, and to keep pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a sex-positive, gender-affirming, safe place for the queer community.”

Whether you need a short, masculine cut; lush natural color; or a rainbow mane, you can head to Lilith’s Lair’s Instagram and Facebook to peruse the salon’s work and find the perfect artist for your needs.

Here are some more choice cuts from Heartside’s salon district:

Pure Vanity (3 Oakes St. SW) is your destination for wigs (both synthetic and human hair); tape-in extensions; and beautiful balayage. In English or Spanish, owner Paloma Maldonado offers customers an “ever-evolving” resource for hot new Heartside hair talent — whether you’re looking to bring some life back into your mane, picking out the perfect lace front, or seeking a stylist que tiene los mejores chismes, Pure Vanity has you covered. Appointments 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday, and 12-5 p.m. on Sunday.

Blonde Theory (64 Division Ave. S) is a small, sultry and sophisticated boutique focused on creating a luxurious, individualistic salon experience. Blonde Theory can take you from a brunette bob to 12” platinum blonde. Blonde Theory is available by appointment only. Visit  the salon’s website.

Avenue Barber Shop (123 Division Ave. S) is a “grassroots-as-you-get” homage to the classic barber shops of the ‘40s and ‘50s. Grand Rapids native Chris Lapham opened the shop in 2017, where he cuts hair and trims beards with a staff of three. Ask about bookings for wedding parties! Appointments 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday (lunch break at 2 p.m.),11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday.

Posh Nails and Spa (38 Commerce Avenue SW) After fighting tooth-and-nail through 2022, why not stop in for a mani-pedi? Posh offers both dip powder and acrylic options as well as a variety of aromas for your pedicures. Whether you prefer a Lavender Field Escape or to be Pampered by Pitaya in state-of-the-art massage chairs, Posh promises “everything it takes to restore your energy and revitalize your spirits.” Appointments 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, Saturday 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m,. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

This article provided by ArtRat, located at 46 Division Ave. S. For more about ArtRat, visit the gallery’s website at www.artrat.us. To join ArtRat Gallery’s mailing list of events and exhibits, email matthew@artrat.us.

With an ‘I can, too’ attitude, Wyoming student starts her own jewelry business

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Entertainment, Local Business, Recreation, , ,

By Isabelle Mosher
WKTV Contributor

During the pandemic, Isabella Diaz-Borrello branched out starting her own jewelry business. (Courtesy, Wyoming Wolf Pack Press)

Over the past couple of years, a Wyoming high school student has worked to develop her own line of alternative jewelry, Dusk Shoppe, that is affordable to all.

In 2020, during the first quarantine, Isabella Diaz-Borrello decided to start up a business as a way to make money and express herself through jewelry. It all started when her father gave her money and told her to “make something out of this, try to double what I gave you and make more.”

While brainstorming ideas, she came across videos on TikTok of other people making handmade jewelry.

She felt inspired.

“I thought, I can do that too,” she said. Dusk Shoppe came to life at this moment. Originally, Dusk Shoppe started off as just an earring business: charms, toys, and other accessories. Eventually, Isabella expanded to wire-wrapped earrings, more intricate designs, polymer clay earrings, and resin earrings as well.

As her business evolved, Isabella started to experiment with other types of accessories. She now makes beaded necklaces with chain details and charms, bracelets, keychains, and stickers (which are her very own design). There may be more additions as well.

“I hope to make and sell ceramic at my shop sometime soon,” she said.

For handmade jewelry, her products are fairly priced. Resin earrings are $10, polymer clay earrings are $15, wire-wrapped earrings are $8, necklaces are $25, bracelets and keychains are $6, and her stickers are $3.

The challenges of having your own business

Although her business has grown, there have been struggles. Advertising has been one. She advertises on Instagram and TikTok through her business accounts.

Earrings created by Isabella Diaz-Borrello (Courtesy, Dusk Shoppe)

“I tried making a TikTok once, but it didn’t work out,” she stated.

Isabella hopes to advertise Dusk Shoppe more in the new year through Instagram and TikTok posts. She is also planning more advertisements about her Depop shop and looking at other art markets.

Advertising has not been a huge hit, but her art markets have. At art markets, her business can run itself.

“I’ve only been doing art markets for a year, I did about six last year,” she said.

She hopes to do way more art markets this year, but her real goal is to partake in a market at the yearly Pride Festival.

“There was a booth that was selling jewelry, but it looked like mass-produced jewelry,” she said. “It had a huge line.”

She believes her business needs to grow in size and get better at advertising, that’s the milestone.
“It can be expensive and you need a lot of products,” she said.

Dusk Shoppe has had its ups and downs, but Isabella has succeeded in her past goals. Stay updated on new additions to her shop, and remember, if you’re wanting to start a business, think of the wise words of Isabella: “I can do that too.”

Isabelle Mosher is a senior journalism student at Wyoming High School. She plans to study biochemistry at Michigan State University. 

Free movies featured at Speciation Cellars

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Recreation,

WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Looking for a new resolution for the New Year? How about a beer and free movie?

B-Movie Euphoria hosts free movies the last Sunday of every month. This Sunday, Jan 29, the featured flick will be the 1983 classic “D.C. Cab,” which starred Gary Busey, Mr. T, and Irene Cara. The film was directed by Joel Schumacher, who would go on to direct “Lost Boys” and “Batman Forever.”

Show time is at 8 p.m. at Speciation Cellars, located at 928 Wealthy St. SE.

“D.C. Cab” is a greasy classic about a bunch of street-wise loser cabbies working at a rundown Washington D.C. cab company and the madness that ensues.

To see what is coming up next. visit B-Movie Euphoria’s Facebook page.

Gilmore Care Museum announces 2023 Car Show season schedule

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, , ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

The popular Wednesday Night Cruse-In events will return, running from May to September. (WKTV)

The Gilmore Car Museum today unveiled its 2023 car show and event season schedule, providing dates for its “summer season” shows scheduled to take place on the Gilmore’s historic 90-acre campus from May through October. Additional details and registration information for individual events will be posted at a later date on www.GilmoreCarMuseum.org.

 Notable newer events and changes for the 2023 schedule include:

  • Winter Motoring Meet on Feb 4: for winter fun and vintage snowmobiles
  • Pint With The Past on Feb 11: for a Roaring Twenties inspired craft beer tasting event
  • Vintage Boat Show & Travel Trailer Rally on May 13: for a combined show featuring classic boats, travel trailers, and RVs
  • Corks & Crafts Wine and Beer Festival on May 13: for beer and wine enthusiasts, held in tandem with the Vintage Boat Show & Travel Trailer Rally
  • Congress of Motorcars, Family Day, and Dollar Hot Dogs now held on May 20: for pre-1942 gas, steam, and electric cars, with rides, period dress, fun, and games
  • MCACNMuscle CarMeet-Up returns for its second year on Jun 24: for the best Detroit Muscle, from the 1960s to today
  • Tractor Show returns on July 28-29: for vintage tractors, displays, and demonstrations
  • Deutsche Marques Oktoberfest on Oct 15: for fall colors, German cars, food, beer and music

As usual, the Gilmore’s popular Wednesday Night Cruise-In events with live music, food, and beverage will run every Wednesday night from 5 to 8 p.m. from May through end of September. Gilmore Car Museum members will receive early access through a separate member gate and preferred parking.

Even more, the Gilmore Car Museum plans to announce its Summer Concert Series schedule of outdoor, open-air musical performances later this year.

“We’re excited about the upcoming season of car shows, new events, and concerts at the Gilmore Car Museum,” said Executive Director Josh Russell. “It’s a calendar full of things for our members, partners, guests, and first-time visitors to be able see, hear, and experience on our campus.”

As we anxiously await spring and the start of “car show season,” all are invited to visit the museum’s indoor exhibits throughout the winter months, as the museum remains open every day from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For questions or more information, visit www.GilmoreCarMuseum.org, call 269-671-5089 or email info@gilmorecarmuseum.org.

Saw the made for TV series or movie? Now read the book

3-bottom, Books, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Recreation, ,

WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

From the Sookie Slackhouse series.
From the Aurora Teagarden series.
From the Midnight, Texas series

You might not know the name Charlaine Harris but you have probably ran across one of the several made for TV series that were based off her books.

NBC’s short-lived “Midnight, Texas,” based off Harris’ “Midnight, Texas” series, followed the mysterious people of Midnight, Texas, as psychic Manfred Bernardo is busy solving the mysteries.

Or how about Hallmark Movies and Mysteries’ “Aurora Teagarden Movies,” which are based on Harris’ Aurora Teagarden series. The story follows librarian Aurora Teagarden as she solves murders in her town of Lawrenceton, in the state of Washington.

Finally, there is HBO’s “True Blood,” which ran for five years from 2009-2014 and was based off of Harris’ Sookie Stackhouse Southern Vampire Series. The mystery series features small-town waitress-turned-paranormal sleuth Sookie Stackhouse as she works with a variety of paranormal characters from vampires to werewolves in solving a series of murders.

Harris’ books are just some of the many you can find on the Kent District Library’s Books to Film selection for the KDL Let It Snow Adult Reading Club.

Adults and teens (11+) who participate in the Let It Snow and read a minimum of six books in different categories between Jan. 3 and March 31 will receive a collectible Let It Snow 2023 ceramic mug. Participants who finish an additional four titles will be entered into a Power Reader drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Scribe with stylus pen or other prizes. 

Let It Snow: Mystery and Thriller book suggestions

3-bottom, Books, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Recreation, ,

By Kent District Library
kdl.org

“I’ll be honest, when someone suggested ‘The Silent Patient’ to me, I thought it sounded pretty routine and so I passed,” said WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma. “Then my daughter, a registered nurse, mentioned how her co-workers told her she needed to read the book.

“She got it. Read it in two days and then gave it to me. I couldn’t put it down and then, it was the twist that I never expected.”

“The Silent Patient,” by Alex Michaelides, is just one of many possible options under the KDL Let It Snow Mystery and Thriller book selections which also includes “Run Rose Run,” by James Patterson and Dolly Parton, “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn and Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None.”

Based on a Greek myth, “The Silent Patient” centers around the story of famous painter Alicia Berenson who has killed her husband and stops speaking and Theo, a therapist determined to unlock her secrets.

Adults and teens (11+) who participate in the Let It Snow and read a minimum of six books in different categories between Jan. 3 and March 31 will receive a collectible Let It Snow 2023 ceramic mug. Participants who finish an additional four titles will be entered into a Power Reader drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Scribe with stylus pen or other prizes.

Explore the future with a ‘deck’ of options in the Heartside district

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Recreation, ,

By Maddy Visscher
ArtRat Gallery

First chronicled in Europe during the 15th century, tarot cards are an important tool for divination. If you want cartomantic insights into your past, future and present selves, you can choose from a deck of options within a 5-minute walk of ArtRat Gallery: The 12th House (8 Jefferson Ave. SE); DreamPirate Gallery (136 Division Ave. S); and The Mortals Cafe (111 Division Ave. S). 

Card readers use numerology, archetypes, Zodiac signs and elements to create connections among the cards. (Courtesy, ArtRat)

How does tarot work — and what do the cards have to say about opportunities and challenges for Grand Rapids’ Heartside neighborhood in the year ahead? ArtRat went to the source for some divine guidance.

A beautiful broom stands by the open door of The 12th House, its handle a gnarled branch. Inside are tables of crystals, handmade jewelry and whimsical clothing, shelves of colorful cards and books about candle magic, sustainability, and the histories of Hindu deities and Irish faeries.

Behind the register, Carmen Kempen, the store’s in-house tarot reader, is shaping wire around a sparkling hunk of white quartz to create a necklace. She introduces herself as the Maiden of the Vale, who serves the valley of the Grand River. 

A space for insight

Carmen Kempen does a reading at The 12th House. (Courtesy, ArtRat)

Carmen opened a moving wall to reveal an intimate space: a large round table adorned with candles, crystals — and rubber ducks. She apologized for the clutter, but pointed out she is a chaos witch, after all.

Card readers use numerology, archetypes, Zodiac signs and elements to create connections among the cards, then follow their intuition to channel hidden knowledge. Carmen’s deck mirrors her values, featuring diverse human subjects, including people of color and gender-nonconforming individuals. “We see ourselves in the cards we read,” she remarked.

“Tarot for me is all about healing,” Carmen told ArtRat. “It’s reaching into the deep, dark places to pull forward things in a gentle manner, in a safe space.”

Cards on the table

The 12th House shelves feature colorful cards and books about candle magic, sustainability, and the histories of Hindu deities and Irish faeries. (Courtesy, ArtRat)

So what did the Maiden of the Vale see on behalf of Heartside?

Five cards fall from her hands — the nine of wands, seven of wands, four of pentacles, queen of pentacles and knight of pentacles — and we sit in silence as Carmen examines them.

She says Heartside is full of promise that can only be realized by aligning the initiatives of different individuals and groups involved with the neighborhood.

“These cards are showing us a deep, energetic passion for the work being done,” she says, “but there needs to be more communication between all the branches and more stability within the roots. Otherwise, the whole thing will fall over.

“Heartside can be at its absolute best, but only if we strengthen our connections to each other.” Carmen continues. “There’s something big coming, and together we can embrace it.

“The air is changing, the witches are waking up, and we’ll be right here when you’re ready.”

The 12th House is open 11am-7pm Tuesday through Friday, 11am-8pm Saturday, and 11am-4pm Sunday. Contact the Maiden of the Vale to schedule a tarot reading.

DreamPirate Gallery offers tarot, read by Kylie Hailstone, as well as a slew of other metaphysical services all by appointment. 

The Mortals Cafe is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Resident cartomancer Katrina Peshka offers sessions every Friday from 3-6 p.m.

This article provided by ArtRat, located at 46 Division Ave. S. For more about ArtRat, visit the gallery’s website at www.artrat.us. To join ArtRat Gallery’s mailing list of events and exhibits, email matthew@artrat.us.

KDL Let It Snow: Going local on the local indie/Michigan author book list

3-bottom, Books, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kent County, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , ,

By Kent District Library

Photo by Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

Angeline Boulley’s debut novel, “Firekeeper’s Daughter,” skyrocketed to the top upon release earning several awards including a Printz Medal Winner, William C. Morris Award, American Indian Youth Literature Award Best Young Adult Honor, and was a Reese Witherspoon x Hllo Sunshine Book Club YA Pick.

Set in Sault Ste. Marie, the story follows Daunis Fontaine, a half-native, half-white young adult who witnesses her best friend’s murder by the hand of her friend’s boyfriend. She decides to protect her family and her culture by becoming involved an FBI investigation revolving around a new drug that mixes meth with Ojibwa herbs.

Boulley, who is enrolled member of the Sault St. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, was born in Sault Ste. Marie. She is a graduate of Central Michigan University and has worked in Indian education at the tribal, state and national levels including becoming the director fo the Office of Indian Education at the U.S. Department of Education.

 

Boulley’s book is just one of the many recommendations on the KDL Let It Snow Local Indie/Michigan Authors. Other books on the list are Jenison author Tobin T. Buhk’s “Cold Case Michigan,” a look at several unsolved Michigan murders, and Shona Buchana’s “Black Indian,”  a memoir of being African American with American Indian roots and how her family dealt with not just society’s ostracization but the consequences of this dual inheritance.

Adults and teens (11+) who participate in the Let It Snow and read a minimum of six books in different categories between Jan. 3 and March 31 will receive a collectible Let It Snow 2023 ceramic mug. Participants who finish an additional four titles will be entered into a Power Reader drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Scribe with stylus pen or other prizes. 

ArtRat offers up its Heartside NYE guide

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Holidays, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By ArtRat Gallery

ArtRat Gallery is enjoying a long winter’s nap until Jan. 5, but our Heartside neighborhood is staying lit to welcome 2023 this Saturday night.

Whether you’re looking for a formal dinner, a costume party, a basement punk concert or a good old-fashioned bar crawl, check out a dozen New Year’s Eve events within a 5-minute walk of ArtRat Gallery (46 Division Ave. South).

Apartment Lounge (33 Sheldon Ave. SW)

The Apartment Lounge’s first party of 2023 “is going to be a big deal,” manager Jason Martin told ArtRat. “My favorite part is seeing how much fun everyone is enjoying the performances.” For $10 cover, you can be a part of the festivities at Grand Rapids’ oldest LGBTQ-friendly bar. The event will be hosted by drag doyenne Jasinya Maria Sanchez, and the cover includes party favors and a champagne toast. Jason tells us there’s only one more booth available (which includes charcuterie and a bottle of bubbles), so reserve your front-row seats before it’s too late.

Beacon Corner Bar (38 Fulton St. W)

The Beacon Corner Bar has two reasons to celebrate, one is New Year’s Eve and the other is marking its first anniversary. (Courtesy, Beacon Corner Bar)

Grand Rapids’ new home for Long Island-inspired “sea and land fare” has two reasons to party: It’s celebrating both the new year and its own one-year anniversary with a three-course coastal dining experience that features live music by Mark Levengood. ($65)

Canopy by Hilton (131 Ionia Ave. SW)

Want to ring in 2023 from a rooftop? The Hilton invites you to head up to Knoop Rooftop Beer Garden, “Grand Rapids’ only rooftop lounge NYE experience.” There will be charcuterie and New York Sours, not to mention an amazing view. Tickets are available here. ($100)

Divani (15 Ionia SW)

“This year has gone by so fast, and we are looking forward to celebrating the beginning of 2023 with you!” The chefs at Divani have created a $75, three-course menu (with gluten-free options) to ring in the new year. Reserve your table here.

Dublin Hall (100 Ionia Ave. SW)

Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh! (That’s “Happy New Year!” in Irish Gaelic.) Raise a pint at Dublin Hall’s Glitter and Gold Party, with music by DJ Tony Banks. The event will include party favors, a late-night buffet and a champagne toast. Doors open at 9 p.m.; tickets are $40 pre-sale or $50 at the door.

GRNoir Wine and Jazz (35 Division Ave. S)

Co-owner and sommelier Shatawn Brigham told ArtRat that GRNoir will offer “six to eight” varieties of bubbly for your New Year’s delectation, as well as live jazz from saxophonist Alain Sullivan and his quartet.

House of Wine kicks of the New Year with a champagne tasting. (Courtesy, House of Wine)

House Of Wine (53 Monroe Center St. NW)

Do you get a kick from champagne? House of Wine invites you to “treat yourself” by making a NYE reservation for drinks and small plates. They’ll be hosting an exclusive champagne tasting to help kickstart your New Year’s Eve celebration. (Book online here.)

Lilith’s Lair (25 Division Ave. S)

Heartside’s new queer-owned salon is proud of its creative and inclusive environment. On NYE, you can explore the space with an evening of glitter, local art vendors and pole performances. Stylists will be offering discounts on glitter-y makeup and hair applications from 6-8 p.m. so you can leave “ready for the countdown at your local gathering place!” Pole performances will run from 8:30-9:30 p.m. (Get your $10 tickets here!)

Rockwell Republic (45 Division Ave. S)

ArtRat’s neighbors at Rockwell Republic are looking back to the 1980s this New Year’s Eve: Sport your biggest hair and brightest windbreaker, and enter to win a $200 cash prize at the gastropub’s ‘80s-themed costume party. Book ahead for a complimentary champagne toast; the festivities begin at 8:30 p.m.

Rumors Night Club (69 Division Ave. S)

Head on down to South Division’s venerable LGBTQ+ nightclub, and celebrate the 2023 New Year with a snack buffet, party favors and a house diva performance, as well as a champagne toast at midnight. Legendary Rumors DJ Monica Parker will be spinning tracks alongside DJ Timmy T. Doors open at 8 p.m., admission $25.

Skelletones (133 Division Ave. S) 

If you’re more the party-crashing type, there’s still a place for you (that isn’t your parents’ garage) this Saturday night. The all-ages, alcohol-free music venue is hosting its New Year’s Eve Trash Bash: a “big family reunion” featuring Chain Ripper, The Mollusks, The Sissy Boys, Dregs, American Cheese and Fetus Deletus! Come check out these Michigan punk/metal/hardcore bands from 7 p.m. till midnight. (The gnarliest NYE celebration in town costs just $10 a ticket!)

And if you prefer a lower-key start to 2023, stock up at Grand Vin (15 Ionia Ave. SW). Owner Kimberly Grimm told ArtRat, “We won’t have an event at the shop on NYE, but we do have more than 60 different types of sparkling wine available at every price point to help customers celebrate at home!” Stop in from 11 a.m. till 4 p.m. on Saturday so house sommelier Thom Grimm can help you put the right fizz on your New Year’s Eve.

Looking for holiday music? Vertigo Music has got you covered

3-bottom, Local Business, Recreation,

By Maddy Visscher
ArtRat Gallery

Vertigo Music (129 Division Ave. S) crackles with energy all year ‘round — but the holiday season gives our neighborhood record curators a special opportunity to hook you up with Christmas classics and unforgettable gifts for the audiophile on your list. 

This year, Vertigo owner Herm Baker has stocked brand-new copies of 20 different holiday albums, such as The Temptations’ Christmas Card, Sufjan Stevens’ Songs For Christmas and the Home Alone soundtrack, as well as the albums Herm told ArtRat are his best seasonal sellers: A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra, Johnny Cash’s The Christmas Spirit, Elvis’ Christmas Album and Dolly Parton’s Holly Dolly Christmas. 

Other seasonal collections feature Ella Fitzgerald, Norah Jones and the Beach Boys. And if you need your holiday Mariah Carey fix, Vertigo stocks two different albums to choose from: the 1994 Merry Christmas album, which features Carey’s original rendition of “All I Want For Christmas is You,” and the 2010 follow-up, Merry Christmas II You, which features an “Extra Festive” version.

New adventures in hi-fi

Johnny Cash, Frank Sinatra or maybe its

Vertigo’s staff of four is always ready to hook you up with music you’ll love. For this occasion, Ethan and Logan stepped up enthusiastically to help ArtRat explore Vertigo’s holiday collection.

“David Bowie and Bing Crosby!” exclaimed Logan, rifling through the racks. “This one just released this Black Friday on its 45th anniversary. How could you go wrong with Bowie?”

“And A Charlie Brown Christmas! This one is selling fast. It’s my favorite holiday album to listen to — you don’t normally get to hear it on the radio. We also have the Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack. I love a good movie score.”

“This one is like, post-rock Christmas, and probably the coolest seasonal record we have.” Ethan said, picking up a copy of Scarlet Holliday, a three-song EP the band MONO created with producer Steve Albini in 2021 as a “special little gift” to bring hope to listeners feeling isolated by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Who wants to listen to the same music over and over again?” Ethan asked. “This one still feels festive, but it’s different.” 

Vertigo has also stocked Canned Heat’s Christmas Album and Blondie’s Yuletide Throwdown, as well as No Presents on Christmas by King Diamond for those who really want to take the holiday season to the next sonic level. 

If none of these picks jingle your bells, Vertigo has three crates of used holiday records priced at $1 each.

“I recently had a customer come in looking for a specific singer-songwriter Christmas album for a gift,” Logan said.

“I wasn’t sure we’d find it, but we flipped the first record and there it was. So, even if we all think we might not have it, we probably do!”

Vertigo’s crates contain yuletide music created with organs, music boxes, gospel choirs or guitars. One record in the store’s used Christmas section reads, “Obenkirchen Children’s Choir: a musical experience of unusual charm and merit, so appealing they make you want to cry.”

Unknown pleasures

And if you want to find a gift for the discerning music fan, Vertigo probably has it. “This isn’t your average shop,” Ethan told ArtRat. “This is a real-deal, old-fashioned record store.”

Whether your tastes run to an instructional Jazz Dancing vinyl that guarantees to “prepare you for any current dance craze,” or John F. Kennedy: The Presidential Years, which offers “some of the key words uttered by President John F. Kennedy, humbly presented as a perpetual record,” you can find it at Vertigo.

Vertigo’s shelves are stocked with B-side compilations and rarities, special-edition releases, and more, perfect for gifting to the music lover or trivia buff in your life. 

Vertigo Music is open Monday through Friday 12-7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m.-6 p.m.

This article provided by ArtRat, located at 46 Division Ave. S. For more about ArtRat, visit the gallery’s website at www.artrat.us. To join ArtRat Gallery’s mailing list of events and exhibits, email matthew@artrat.us.

The Lantern is more than just the coffee it serves

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Food, Local Food, Recreation, Restaurants, ,

By Maddy Visscher
ArtRat Gallery

“Our job is way more than just making drinks,” said Jon Bailey, owner of The Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge, 100 Commerce Ave. SW.

All photos courtesy of ArtRat.

“A few years ago, I had a realization when taking a look at coffee shops all over the United States: We’re all doing the same thing — serving high-quality coffee,” Jon told ArtRat. “At The Lantern, it’s different. We focus on the environment, our service and your experience.“

That commitment to Grand Rapids’ Heartside neighborhood guided The Lantern through the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic and still shapes the way the popular coffee spot treats customers, other local businesses and the community at large.

Steve Wiltjer and Kevin Wallace opened The Lantern in April 2013, in the old Grand Central Engineering Building — a site that had stood gutted and empty for 15 years. The space is much bigger on the inside than it seems when you pass by; the spacious downstairs area still features the Grand Central’s original wood and is filled with tables and desks for people to socialize or work.

“I have all of my meetings at Lantern,” Rock Dandeneau, owner of Taste Buds-Kitchen Connects, a catering business just around the corner at 122 Division Ave S, told ArtRat.

Down in the vault 

The historic building holds some surprises. John led me down to a former bank vault that’s now The Lantern’s dry-goods storage. “This door is the original one,” he said, spinning the combination lock. “It’s supposedly worth a lot, too … But it’s so heavy, no one has moved it!” 

Inside, there’s not much space. “It forces us to work a little differently, more intentionally. For example, instead of ordering 10,000 to-go cups, we order 1,000.”  He pointed out ingredients that go into The Lantern’s latest offering: homemade oat milk. Though the ingredients are Michigan-made, the recipe required a lot of tweaks and a journey to New Orleans where Jon met a master oat-milker to learn his ways. After Jon added his own personal touches, the cafe added it to the menu on Monday.

The coffee bar is intentional with its waste, too. Just outside the vault, the space also holds The Lantern’s compost bins: All coffee, filters, and tea scraps are composted for distribution to local farms.

Navigating a pandemic

Jon started at The Lantern as a barista, but his role grew over time. In 2020, he was already on track to take over ownership responsibilities from The Lantern’s founders when COVID-19 hit.

For a gathering spot like The Lantern, social-distancing requirements were a critical hit, and the cafe shut down entirely for several months. “I didn’t want to reopen without indoor seating,” Jon explained. “It’s such an integral part of what we are.”

Jon remained committed to operating The Lantern while keeping customers safe. “I didn’t really have experience doing that kind of thing,” he said, “but I saw it as an opportunity to save something that was important to me, to not just watch it die in front of me. While there are trials and tribulations, I always [work] to pull myself up.”

The Lantern team shares Jon’s focus on the cafe’s role as stewards of the community. Savannah Jeanelle took a moment to talk with us. Between brewing my Malabar Tea and packing a shot of espresso, our local barista filled ArtRat in about what Lantern does best.

“Engrained within us, we are a part of — and take part in — this community,” Savannah said. “All are welcome. This community is so full of vibrant people: artists, musicians, people with stories to tell.

“No matter who you are, we’ll always be happy to make you a drink and have a conversation.”

This article provided by ArtRat, located at 46 Division Ave. S. For more about ArtRat, visit the gallery’s website at www.artrat.us. To join ArtRat Gallery’s mailing list of events and exhibits, email matthew@artrat.us.

Exploring the world of Jim Henson

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Kent County, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma with GRAM Director of Art Chris Bruce. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

It was by chance that Chris Bruce was introduced to the world of Jim Henson.

“As a family, we would go to these auctions,” Bruce said. “At one, there was a box of kids toys that we got. At the bottom of the box, there was a VHS (tape) which was the ‘Dark Crystal.’”

It was love at first viewing.

“I just love how he understood the need for kids to face fear,” Bruce said. “That they needed to be able to recognize it and know what it is.”

Fast forward several years and Bruce, who is now working for the Grand Rapids Art Museum, is in New York. A friend tells him about an exhibit of Jim Henson’s work at the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI).

Bruce arrived at the MoMI, only to find it closed. But all was not lost as he managed to convince someone to let him in to see “The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited.”

“After seeing it, I knew immediately that the Museum needed to bring this exhibit in,” Brue said, adding that staff had been considering it. “It has everything that we were seeking for an installation. It is entertaining. It is diverse. It is vibrant and it is relatable.

“I saw it as something that would speak to everyone.”

It would take a few more years for the Museum to get the exhibit on its schedule and during that time Bruce was named the GRAM’s director of art and is the curator for the exhibit.

And as Bruce moves a small group through the exhibit, you can quickly tell that the GRAM picked the best person to curate this particular exhibit.

Life’s like a movie

Opened at the beginning of October, the exhibit features a broad range of artifacts related to Henson’s career. This includes more than 20 puppets, character sketches, storyboards, scripts, photographs, film and television clips, behind-the-scenes footage, and iconic costumes. There are also interactive experiences that allow visitors to try their hand at puppeteering on camera and designing a puppet character.

As the group moves through the exhibit, Bruce tells of of the layout and story behind the exhibit.

Visitors travel through a timeline of Henson’s career with the different sections color-coated. Greeted by a 1978 Kermit the Frog, the exhibit starts with Henson’s early life when he was first introduced to television and puppetry. It weaves through his first television show, “Sam and Friends” leading into his years with “Sesame Street.”

Characters from “Fraggle Rock”
The stuff animals from “The “Labyrinth”


“The Muppet Show,” which ran from 1976-1981, is featured prominently with all the episodes being run at the sametime on a screen. Continue to follow the path through the hall to discover such iconic shows “Muppet Babies” and “Fraggle Rock” which leads to Henson’s groundbreaking “Dark Crystal” and “Labyrinth,” which starred David Bowie. The exhibit ends looking at some of the projects Henson was working on before his untimely death in 1990.

 

“And if you watch the closing monitor, you can even see Jim Henson saying ‘good-bye,” Bruce said.

Joining Kermit are such familiar characters as Grover, Ernie, Bert, and Count von Count from “Sesame Street”; Dr. Bunsen Honeydew, Beaker, and Scooter from “The Muppets”; and Jen and Kira puppets from “The Dark Crystal.” Also on display are the costumes from “The Labyrinth.”

Making a connection

Grand Rapids Art Museum Director of Art Chris Bruce in front of the Jen and Kira puppets from “The Dark Crystal.” (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

“It has been an incredible opportunity to be the curator while this exhibit is here,” Bruce said.

As for a favorite section, Bruce said he couldn’t pick one. Each has its place and, while all were made for children, there meanings and theme reach out to what is going on today.

“‘Fraggle Rock’ was about race relations and how people need to work together,” Bruce said, adding that making connections was another them that ran through Henson’s work.

“I think the takeaway from all of this is being together,” Bruce said. “We are all different but we are all in this together.”

The “Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited” runs through Jan. 14 at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center NW. Throughout the months of December and January, there are several drop-in and adult workshops centered around puppetry in celebration of the exhibit. For more information, visit artmuseumgr.org.

A local artist uses her creativity to give back

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Recreation, ,

By Maddy Visscher
ArtRat Gallery

Journeè Evans’ passion for Grand Rapids art, poetry and community gained new perspective in January 2022, when she relocated downtown from the city’s southeast side.

“I wanted to know my surroundings more, to expand,” she told ArtRat. “That’s why I love living in Grand Rapids: You’re always going to run into a different crowd and new culture that you can explore and bring in knowledge and connections. We have something special, something a lot of people are searching for.” 

Bringing communities and cultures together is central to Journeè’s work. In our neighborhood alone, Mama Sol’Ja has performed at 106 Gallery’s Thing to Do Thursdays, at GRNoir’s Vino & Verses reading series, and at The Hai-Cuu Experience and Saturday Musicians’ Co-op here at ArtRat. On Nov. 4, she co-hosted Pass the Mic GR at the Wealthy Theatre at the invitation of co-founder Shayna “Akanke” Marie.

At ArtRat, she has sourced West Michigan artists and artisans for ArtRat’s Holiday ArtMart, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 3 and noon to 6 p.m. Dec. 4. Also during ArtRat’s Third Thursday event Dec. 15, she will host a poetry paint-and-pour as part of her new Sol’s Sessions performance series.

“I met some of the most loving, caring and amazing people” at Pass the Mic, Journeè said. “It was one of those opportunities that you don’t get unless you know that this is something you’re supposed to bring to the world. There’s so many amazing things that come through Grand Rapids, and a lot of people don’t get to see them.”

Journeè has also become an ambassador for C4 (the Community Collaboration on Climate Change),a grassroots organization that is working to make Grand Rapids a model city for climate-change mitigation, adaptation and climate justice for its residents.

In her role with C4, Journeè will work closely with the residents of Grand Rapids to learn the specifics of what our community needs to move forward. (You can download more information on C4 here and here.)

Sol’s Sessions

Her experience at Grand Rapids’ art venues inspired Journeè’s latest project: Sol’s Sessions, a collaborative forum for the city’s emerging artists, poets, singers and dancers that she plans to host throughout the city. “The idea was actually born out of the idea for a dance group,” she said, “but I fell back in love with writing poetry. So it became a space for everything: You can come and speak, listen, cry, dance, even paint or sketch!

“Creativity doesn’t take from anything, or anyone — it simply gives. When you gain creativity, you gain freedom and independence. It gives you the courage to live on without fear.”

Mama Sol’Ja will host a “Sunflower World” edition of Sol’s Sessions on Nov. 18 at the Wealthy Theatre Community Media Center. The event begins at 6pm with performances by six West Michigan poets, leading into an open mic. “I want anybody who has a talent to come and show it so they can get their flowers and that love,” she said. “That’s what the Sunflower World is about.” To keep the flame lit as we head into dark winter months, you’re invited to dress in yellow and join the celebration.

Bringing it all to ArtRat

In December, Journeè will apply her community-building talents to ArtRat, introducing new vendors to the gallery at the Holiday ArtMart, then hosting a Sol’s Session that features poetry alongside participatory painting. “I get to bring in this great community of people who became entrepreneurs in their own right,” she said. “They went out and they actually did something! It’s so amazing to me to see that grit.

“COVID really just stopped a lot of things. Now that people are up and running, I want to really encourage us to gain as much as we can gain because we all went through so much. I was thrilled to be able to give people that opportunity, whether it’s local artists, or younger people who want to pursue creative endeavors.

“I’m thrilled that I get to be able to bring people a new, positive way,” Journeè said, “just to show themselves and be able to express whatever thoughts they have on their mind. We’re definitely going to change it over here. It’s important to give voice to change — and that’s what we’re doing here.”

This article provided by ArtRat, located at 46 Division Ave. S. For more about ArtRat, visit the gallery’s website at www.artrat.us. To join ArtRat Gallery’s mailing list of events and exhibits, email matthew@artrat.us.

Gardens set to open new exhibit on environment

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events,

The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park will present the exhibit “Double Take: Mel Chin an Elizbeth Turk” from Nov. 18 through March 26.

Elizabeth Turk, Evaporated River (detail)2, 2015, marble and limestone, dimensions variable (Photo courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park)

This exhibition presents works from these two award winners of the MacArthur Fellowship—sometimes referred to as a “genius grant”—in a variety of techniques and media, including wood, stone, aluminum, water, and sound. Chin and Turk’s work selected for this exhibition focuses on sculpture dealing primarily with the natural world.

Environmental issues have been central to Mel Chin’s work for many years. Most notably is his 1990 Revival Field, a pioneering project in “green remediation,” which uses plants to extract toxic metals from soil. Two pieces tied to this ongoing project are included in the exhibition: Revival Field diorama and Revival Ramp etching. Themes of revival and recovery are often present in Chin’s work, including many shown at Meijer Gardens.

Elizabeth Turk is also inspired by the natural world, most recently in her Tipping Point: Echoes of Extinction series that brings light to extinct and endangered birds through a series of totemic Sound Columns. These sculptures visualize the voices of lost or threatened birds. Her Evaporated River installation similarly gives form to an absence within nature, here showing the diminished water that used to flow freely through our nation’s riverbeds.

Together, the art of Mel Chin and Elizabeth Turk provides new takes on important issues of the day, including environmental hazards, endangered species, memorialization, and lost or hidden histories.

‘Best year’ in long time boosts Christmas farms

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Local History, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By Liam Jackson
Capital News Service

Levi Dutcher, with his family outside Old Grove Christmas Tree Farm in Caledonia, will carry on a family tradition of selling trees. Credit: Levi Dutcher.

LANSING – Christmas trees are in Levi Dutcher’s blood.

His parents planted 2,000 while his mother was pregnant with him in 1988. Now, he is preparing for his first holiday season as the owner of a choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm.

“It takes a lot of work and a lot of money to make a little bit of money in the end,” said Dutcher, of Old Grove Christmas Tree Farm in Caledonia. “But it’s definitely a lot of fun.”

Dutcher is one of nearly 500 Michigan Christmas tree farm owners benefiting this year from an exceptional growing season.

Ideal weather conditions made it the best

“It was pretty much the consensus of the Michigan Christmas Tree Association board that it was the best year they’ve had for growing in a long time,” said Amy Start, the executive director of the group that promotes Christmas tree farms.

Dutchman Tree Farms near Cadillac benefited from ideal weather conditions in northern Michigan.

“We had decent moisture throughout the summer and did not have any late-season frosts,” said Scott Powell, the nursery manager of Dutchman in Manton and president of the association.

A good growing season is a good sign, but when it comes to actually selling the trees, other factors come into play.

“Usually what affects the selling season is good weather,” Start said.

 

“A little bit of snow for atmosphere is always lovely,” she said. “But if not, we at least hope it’s not raining. Because nobody wants to go to a farm when it’s down pouring or muddy.”

A ‘fresh start’ to the season

Michigan is third in the nation for Christmas tree production, according to the tree grower group. Each year the state supplies two million trees nationally.

Choose-and-cut farms appeal to younger families who want to “make a day of it,” Start said.

“They feel as if it’s the freshest way to get a tree,” she said. “Because it is. You are cutting it down yourself.”

That experience is the culmination of nearly a decade’s worth of work for the farmer. It takes Christmas trees seven to 10 years before they are ready to cut.

Each growing season is critical and has lasting impacts for farmers beyond that. Drought during one season can delay growth, Start said.

“It takes a lot of work and a lot of care to get them to the full size to sell so the growers are really, really diligent about those trees,” she said.

Some new choose-and-cut farms are set to open to the public this year, but an opening is the completion of a project started long before – sometimes several decades.

A longtime coming grand opening

Dutcher is opening his choose-and-cut farm this year, seven years after the trees were planted.

 

The events that led to the grand opening began before Dutcher was born. The 2,000 trees his mother helped plant in 1988 were nearly all wiped out by a drought.

 

When Dutcher was 8-years-old, his parents sold trees for one year. They never did it again.

“During that season I thought, ‘Wow, this is a lot of fun,’” Dutcher said. “The whole family was hanging out. I didn’t come from a lot of money, so anytime someone came up to buy a $20 tree, it was really exciting.”

About 20 years later, Dutcher bought property in Caledonia. His sister-in-law recommended planting Christmas trees so the family could gather each year and cut their own.

Dutcher took the idea one step further and planted 1,000 trees.

“It was a mixture of me remembering all the good times we had the one year my parents sold trees and my sister-in-law’s suggestion,” Dutcher said. “That’s how we’ve arrived at this.”

Dutcher’s family will still bond over the farm, including his aunt, who will fly from Oregon to help out.

More than just trees

Christmas tree farmers find other ways to make ends meet while the trees grow.

 

Photo ops with Santa and a fire pit to roast marshmallows are ways that Creekside Christmas Trees in Port Austin attract local residents during the Christmas season.

Creekside owner Lisa Szymanski planted trees two years ago. She anticipates that the choose-and-cut portion of the farm will open in 2027.

“We are doing things on the retail side to keep us relevant and keep people in the area knowing that we are here and getting in the habit of coming,” Szymanski said.

ABOUT LIAM JACKSON

Liam Jackson is a journalist from Trenton, Michigan. He enrolled at Michigan State in 2018. His journalistic interests include feature stories and sports journalism. In addition to writing for Spartan Newsroom, Liam has also served as the News Editor and Sports Editor at Impact 89FM.

Lots of goodies to be found at the LowellArts

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, ,

By WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

The LowellArts Artist Market returns starting Friday, Nov. 4, and running through Dec. 24 at the gallery, 223 W. Main St., Lowell.

The event features giftable fine art and fine craft works by 40+ Michigan artists. The gallery space is transformed into a retail setting with unique, one-of-a-kind items available for sale at a range of price points. The annual market is a great place for people to purchase handmade items during the gift giving season. Gift items include: pottery, paintings, photography, jewelry, textiles, glasswork, handbags, woodwork, metalwork, ornaments, soaps, and more.

The Artist Market is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. The event will have extended houses during Christmas Through Lowell. Those hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Nov. 20.

For more information, visit www.lowellartsmi.org.

Outdoor Explorers program gets kids outside examining nature

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Recreation, West Michigan, , ,
(WKTV/Deborah Reed)



By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributor


Designed to spark a love of science and biology in children, the new Kentwood Parks and Recreation Outdoor Explorers program offers a nature-focused curriculum.

Basic survival skills, plant identification, campfire safety and cooking are just some of the activities taught in the program.

“Our goal is to get kids outside and exploring nature,” said Cassie Wielard, Outdoor Explorers program leader.

Outdoor Explorers Leader Cassie Wielard prepares the group for their adventure in Covenant Park. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)



Designed for children ages 6-12, the Outdoor Explorers meet Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. primarily within Covenant Park. The program offers many of the same skills and experiences kids may find through a scouting program, but with much greater flexibility.

Focused on the five senses

Outdoor Explorers often focuses on the five senses, encouraging participants to investigate various textures of plants and other aspects of their surroundings through touch, exploring scent as they smell flowers and campfire smoke, and tasting s’mores and other treats.

Leader Cassie Wielard shows the Explorers goldenrod on a walk in Covenant Park. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)



The purpose, Wielard said, is to give children “experiences that maybe not every kid gets to have outside in nature.”

Along with experiencing nature, instilling a respect for the environment also is a central principal of Outdoor Explorers.

“This feels like an extension of things that I love to do, and it’s been really fun,” said Wielard, who has a background in elementary education.

Covenant Park has three color-coded trails located just outside the clubhouse, each offering approximately one mile of natural space to explore. The park also offers an optional “Hide and Seek” activity for each trail along with maps to help guide explorers.

Rain, no worries

Less than ideal weather doesn’t hinder the young explorers from trekking through the park.

“The rain doesn’t faze them,” Wielard said. “To them, it’s fun.”

If a planned activity is not possible due to weather, Wielard and her volunteers easily improvise and ensure explorers are still learning and having fun.

“Last week it was raining, so s’mores were microwaved,” Wielard said.



Outdoor Explorer Kristofer shows off a bat he made with sticks and bark. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)



Simple crafts offered during each class highlight animals and other aspects of the environment. From building bird feeders, to creating owls and bats out of sticks and bark, participants are treated to a lesson about animals and the natural materials used in their creations.

Looking for winter Explorers

Even though the fall Explorers program has wrapped up, plans are already in motion for a winter session with dates and activities in development stages.

“We are hoping to explore Covenant Park in all the seasons,” Wielard said. “Signs of nature (such as animal tracks) should be obvious with snow on the ground. And, of course, snow opens up a lot of opportunities for activities.”

The winter session is seeking participants for early 2023. To find out more about the program and its benefits, contact the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department.

D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author

Museum celebrates Day of the Dead with exhibition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Holidays, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Local History, Recreation, , , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

Artist Margaret Vega’s ofrenda for her father, Francisco Vega. (WKTV/Renee Karadsheh)

Veronica Quintino-Aranda’s brother died before her younger sister was born yet her sister has a connection to him because of the family’s tradition of honoring the brother’s memory during Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos).

“We remember who he was,” said Quintino-Aranda, a member of the Latino Community Coalition which has collaborated with the Grand Rapids Public Museum on a Day of the Dead exhibit. “We share stories. We share memories. We share his favorite food.

“Even though my sister has never meet him because he died before she was born, she still knows who he was and how important he was to our family.”

A tradition that dates back to the Mayans and Aztecs

Running through Nov. 27, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is featuring the Field Musuem’s “A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico.” Through 26 photographs, the exhibit explores the significance of the Day of the Dead celebrations in Oaxaca, a southern region of Mexico.

Traditionally observed on Nov. 1 and 2, Day of the Dead/Dia de los Muertos is an indigenous holiday that originated in southern Mexico and celebrates the remembrance of family members and friends who have died. Part of that celebration includes the creation of an ofrenda, or a home alter, honoring the deceased.

The tradition and symbols date back to the Mayans and Aztecs, who had a whole month dedicated to the dead, according to Quintino-Aranda. The expansion of catholicism in Mexico altered some of the symbols but the the focus on celebrating the dead remained.

Veronica Quintino-Aranda and Javier Cervantes (WKTV/Renee Karadsheh)

“On my home alter, and we have a catholic tradition, we have the candle that symbolizes we are the light of the world,” Quintino-Aranda said. “We have the arch toward heaven and incense that indicates that our prayers are going up to him. We also have soil that symbolizes that we are dust and are destained to return. We also have items that represent (my brother) and of course, his picture.”

Exploring local history and culture

Almost 600,000 Hispanics live in West Michigan with the Hispanic population making up about 16 percent, almost 16,000, in the Grand Rapids area. As the Hispanic community grew, many brought their traditions to the West Michigan area with the Day of the Dead having become a community celebration. In fact, the Grand Rapids Public Library for several years has hosted a Dia de los Muertos event (this year Oct. 30 – Nov. 3) that includes alters created by community members and activities.

The Latino Community Coalition’s Nuestra HERencia ofrenda. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)

Noting that the Grand Rapids Public Museum is not just about dinosaurs and artifacts but also history and culture, Dustin Tyler, director of marketing and customer service strategy for the Museum, said the Public Museum is excited to be able to partner with local organizations such as the LCC to present a Day of the Dead exhibition.

“Anytime we get the opportunity to include community partners to help paint a story, its a win for Grand Rapids, a win for the museum and a win for our members and visitors,” Tyler said.

The local connection

As part of the exhibition, the GRPM joined with community partners to add ofrendas to the exhibition display. Local professor and artist Margaret Vega created one display honoring her father Francisco Vega (1922-2021), who was a leader in the Latino community of West Michigan and a grassroots organizer for civil rights.

The LCC’s offenda focuses on the organizations Nuestra HERencia project, which honors the history and legacies of women here in Grand Rapids.

“It is an immersive experience,” Tyler said. “it is kind of a window into how another culture does things different but also learning about the history of Mr. Vega and learning about our partners over at the Latin Community Coalition and what their mission and purpose is.”

Started in 2006, the LLC serves as a unifying force for the equitable advancement of Latinos in West Michigan.

“I chose LCC because at the time I was working for the infant health program at Cherry Street Health and so I wanted to learn more about what are the resources out there to help my clients and patients and the LCC was a great opportunity for me to network and learn what programs and classes other nonprofits were offering so I could give back and give those resources to my community,” she said.

Celebrating ‘HER’

The Nuestra HERencia project features women who have not necessarily received awards or been recognized but because of their values that they instilled in their family members, they have helped the Hispanic community grow through business and leadership.

 

“My aunt, who passed away last year, she owned a small chain of bakeries,” said Javier Cervantes, another LCC member. “She instilled in us hard work and dedication. I saw how she treated everyone with respect. That is what I will not forget.

“Todos parejos — everyone is equal.”

For both Cervantes and Quintino-Aranda, they hope through the exhibition and the LCC display to help residents understand the symbolism and why Day of the Dead is important to the Hispanic community.

“I want people to know that we have a presence here in Grand Rapids and we are not going anywhere,” Cervantes said. “Those Latinos have been able to be trailblazers and in a unique way transform the lives of families as well.”

“A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico” is included with general admission to the Museum and is free for Museum members. Kent County residents do receive a discount and Kent County children 17 and under are free. To reverse tickets, visit grpm.org. 

WKTV Contributor Renee Karadsheh contributed to this story.

When trick-or-treaters should head out for the goodies

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

Happy Haunting from the WKTV Journal. (pxhere.com)

With Halloween being on a Monday, the annual spooky season should be adhering to a pretty traditional schedule this year.

Most communities will be observing the holiday on Monday with municipalities encouraging trick-or-treating activities to take place on that day. For times, most communities are encouraging from 6 to 8 p.m.

City of Kentwood, 6-8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31

City of Wyoming does not set trick-or-treating hours, but is encouraging residents and neighborhoods to do so on Monday, Oct. 31. Residents should check with neighborhoods for specific times.

City of Grandville, 6-8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31

City of Grand Rapids, dusk to 8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 31

Gaines Township, no designated time, Monday, Oct. 31

City of Grand Rapids, dusk to 8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 31

Byron Township, varies by neighborhood for date and time. Check with your neighborhood.

Village of Caledonia, 6-8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 31

Organizations to offer some spooky family-friendly fun

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

As Halloween quickly approaches, some local organizations will be offering some Halloween fun that is designed to be spooky as well as family-friendly.

It’s the Monster Mash

The Salvation Army Kroc Center will be having a “graveyard smash” on Friday, Oct. 28, as it brings back its popular “Monster Mash” event. The program runs from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Kroc Center, located at 2500 S. Division Ave.

The free event features “trunk-or-treating” in the Kroc’s east parking lot which will include Kroc Center and other Salvation Army groups distributing candy and other information along with local businesses.

“Monster Mash is one of our biggest events of the year,” said Major Carol Huffman, senior officer for The Salvation Army Kroc Center. “We love giving families the opportunity to enjoy time together in a fun and safe environment, as well as showing our support for other neighborhood businesses and organizations. I’m not sure who is more excited the kids or our staff.”

While science suggest that outdoor events are generally safe, face coverings and social distancing are recommended for all participants. The event will be cancelled in the event of heavy rain or lightning.

Visit GrKrocCenter.org or call 616-588-7200.

It gets spooky at the Grand Rapids Ballet

With witches, mummies, and tricks and treats, the Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Company is ready to fill the Peter Martin Wege Theatre with the special Halloween weekend performance “Spooktacular.”

The Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Company presents “Spooktacular” Oct. 28-30. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)

“Spooktacular” takes place Oct. 28-30 at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m Saturday and Sunday.

Directed by Junior company Artistic Director Attila Mosolygo, the story follows a young girl on Halloween night as her only wish is to go trick-or-treating with her older sister and friends. When they refuse to let the young girl tag along, she embarks on a mischievous plan to get their candy. Audiences will be able to follow the adventure with appearances by skeletons, martians, Frankenstein, and even the “Addams Family.”

“It is exciting to be able to bring this Junior Company production back to the stage this Halloween.” Mosolygo said. “The students have been working hard over the past two months to bring the audience’s favorite Halloween characters to life. This entertaining ballet is perfect for the whole family and everyone is encouraged to attend in costume.”

Those who do attend in costume will be entered into a special drawing to win tickets to the Junior Company production of “The Wizard of Oz” in March.

Tickets are $20 and available at grballet.com, by phone at 616-454-4771, ext. 110, or in-peson at GRB’s Box Office at 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW.

Griffins bobblehead released as team starts new season

Recreation, Sports, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

Just as the Grand Rapids Griffins are set to start their 2022-23 season, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum unveiled an officially licensed, limited-edition vintage Grand Rapids Griffins bobblehead.

National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum’s vintage Grand Rapids Griffins Bobblehead. (Courtesy, National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum)

The bobblehead is part of the American Hockey League Vintage Bobbleheads collection that the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum is releasing in conjunction with the start of the 2022-23 AHL season, which begins Oct. 14. This marks the first vintage bobblehead series featuring every AHL team, and each bobblehead is officially licensed by the AHL.

Standing on a circular ice-like base bearing the team’s name, the smiling Grand Rapids Griffins bobblehead is suited up in a black jersey featuring the team logo and holding a hockey stick. Each bobblehead is individually numbered to 500, and they are only available through the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum’s Online Store. The bobbleheads, which are expected to ship in November, are $30 each plus a flat-rate shipping charge of $8 per order. A set featuring all 32 bobbleheads is $900.

Grand Rapids Griffins kick off season at home

Founded in 1996, the Grand Rapids Griffins started play as a member of the now-defunct International Hockey League before moving to the AHL in 2001. The team is currently an affiliate of the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings and were an affiliate of the Ottawa Senators from 1999-2002. The Griffins opened as the third IHL affiliate in Grand Rapids history, after the Grand Rapids Rockets of the 1950s and the Grand Rapids Owls of the late 1970s. The Griffins won Calder Cup titles in the 2012-13 and 2016-17 seasons. In 2021-22, they finished seventh in the Central Division.

“We’re excited to be working with the AHL to release the first collection of vintage bobbleheads featuring every American Hockey League team,” National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum co-founder and CEO Phil Sklar said. “Van Andel Arena is one of the best venues in the AHL and the Griffins are sure to give the fans of hockey-loving Grand Rapids plenty of excitement in 2022-23.”

The Grand Rapids Griffins start its 72-game season at home this weekend with tonight’s 7 p.m. game against the San Diego Gulls. They plan the Gulls again at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15. The team then plans the Milwaukee Admirals at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19, before heading out on the road for two weeks.

Two girls remove a robot from the field during the Grand Rapids Girls Robotics competition

For local robotics event, its about showing girls they ‘can do it’

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kentwood Public Schools, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Recreation, Tech Trends, , , ,
Wyoming’s Demon Robotics and East Kentwood’s Storm Red battle during the Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition on Oct. 8. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)

By Jodi Miesen
WKTV Contributor

It was an intense battle for bragging rights for two local all-girls high school robotics teams that took part in a competition that focused on their abilities in a very male-dominated field.

The 2022 Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition was held at Wyoming High School over the weekend. Most high school robotics teams are co-ed but for this unique annual STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) event, only the girls were allowed to compete. GRGRC event coordinator Mallorie Edwards said the event was founded in 2016, by Wyoming High School teacher Richard Budden. Budden taught STEM and noticed female students were not as interested in it.

Edwards, who has been with the organization since 2017, said she’s passionate about the organization’s mission and was excited GRGRC could bring the competition back this year. This is the first time they’ve been able to hold the all-day event since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Turnout was lower this year than in the past with only 14 teams. The event is capped at 24 teams.

“I am hoping to grow the numbers that participate in the competition next year,” Edwards said. “A challenge I heard from many coaches that I reached out to was that they didn’t have enough girls on the team to compete. That is the exact reason why we are doing this event. To show girls that they can do these roles, be successful, and have fun.”

The key to success: the willingness to learn

The event drew robotics teams from high schools all over the state with two local teams, Red Storm (Team 3875) from East Kentwood High School and Demon Robotics (Team 858) from Wyoming High School.

Abby Strait stands next to her team's robot at the Grand Rapids Girls Robotics competition
Team Captain Abby Strait from Wyoming High School’s The Demons, stands next to the team’s robot. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)

Through out the competition, teams form alliances with other teams to battled in complex two-minute games against other alliances. This all done with robots that the students have built and program. Wyoming’s The Demons and East Kentwood’s Red Storm ended up being on the same alliance and were fierce competitors, losing by just two points.

“You can do it! You don’t have to be super smart to be in robotics, you just have to be willing to learn,” said Abby Strait, a Wyoming High School senior and team captain. “Your team will teach you all that you need to know.”

Strait, who has been on robotics teams since 8th grade, was excited that her school was hosting an event that promotes girls to pursue science and math fields. She said she felt that far too often girls shy away from robotics thinking it will be too hard, but she hopes events like this will draw more female interest. 

“I’m hoping to go to college for some sort of engineering, something really hands on, as opposed to just math behind the desk,” Strait said as she reflected on what career she might want to pursue in the future. “But this has definitely made me more interested in the STEM career field.”

Taking STEM by storm

Red Storm team captain Sarah Shapin, a senior at East Kentwood High School, is in her seventh year participating in the robotics program. Shapin said she started in middle school and plans to continue her interest in the STEM field in the future.

Sarah Chapin shows off the shirt she designed for the Grand Rapids Girls Robotics competition
Team Captain Sarah Chapin from East Kentwood’s Red Storm stands by her team’s robot and displays the logo she designed for this year’s event. Casa Calvo Marketing designed the t-shirt. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)

Shapin she too believes that women are under-represented in this area but said events like this can help bridge that gap.

“A lot of times women are on it,” Shapin said as she relayed an analogy told to her by her mentor. “And then a guy kind of takes a screwdriver out of her hands and doesn’t give it back. So, it’s not necessarily that women are blocked from it. However, it’s very male-dominated and so therefore, giving this opportunity like this competition allows for women to really get in there, get involved and push through.”

Shapin said she hopes to attend Michigan State University, double majoring in computer science and music. Her goal is to be a software engineer and continue playing the clarinet.

Breaking the stereotypes

According to Edwards, all that hard work pays off on competition day after seeing the students’ reactions and from the correspondence she receives after the event is over.

“The Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition is important to me, because of the letters I receive after the competition; expressing how happy they were to be able to participate in a role that usually a male teammate would be in,“ Edwards said. “And also, during the competition, I get to see the excitement exude from these kids. They love what they’re doing! They love STEM!”

The competition also featured a panel of guest speakers, “Ladies in Tech,” made up of women successful in the STEM fields. 

To learn more about the Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition go to it’s official website, www.girlsrobotics.org or by e-mail GrandRapidsGirlsRobotics@gmail.com.  They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GRGRComp/.

Girls move robot off field during Grand Rapids Girls Robotics competition
Wyoming Team Captain Abby Strait gets help moving the Demons’ robot off the field. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
Students gather together during the Grand Rapids Girls Robotics competition
The alliance of the Wyoming, East Kentwood, and Marysville teams gathers before the final competition. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)

An idea sparks two to open newest vintage store on Division Avenue

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Recreation, , , , ,

By Maddy Visscher
ArtRat Gallery

Tom Short, co-owner Decaydence Vintage, works on a display. (WKTV)

Just a couple of months ago, Tom Short and Jim Long weren’t planning to become the owners of Heartside’s newest vintage store. Then a thrift boom on South Division Avenue and a beautiful storefront put the couple on the fast track to launch Decaydence Vintage in a scant three weeks.

“I told him that he should really just open a whole store,” Jim said from behind the counter of the spacious vintage store stocked wall-to-wall with second-hand treasures. Jim gestured to Tom.

Laughing, Tom agreed: “It just sparked something in me … And now we’re here! It’s like a dream come true.”

After Tom and Jim moved to Grand Rapids from Lansing in 2020, Tom began selling vintage posters, toys and clothing from a 100-square-foot booth. But a retail space at the corner of South Division and Oakes Street got them thinking bigger.

Earrings created by Tom Short, co-owner of Decaydence Vintage (WKTV)

“We had looked at other spots, but after seeing this space, we knew we would fit in here. We just loved the vibe; it’s right next to the beautiful Harris Building at 111 S. Division, and the record store Vertigo Music at 129 S. Division. We signed the lease, and within days we had keys. We couldn’t believe it.”

There wasn’t much time to bask in their success, though, as they only had three weeks to open before ArtPrize 2022 kicked off on Oct. 15. Tom told ArtRat that he just did what he does best: initiating a search for the perfect pieces and picking out the design elements they needed to dress the shop.

A brick-and-mortar store presented a whole new set of challenges, from repairing the AC and hand-painting the bathroom to finding the right furnishings to complement the spacious show floor. “I found the golden clothing racks and glass cases online,” Tom said.

Picking the team

Owners Tom Short and Jim Long hand selected the vendors that are part of Decaydence Vintage. (WKTV)

Now that Decaydence was looking more like a real store, Jim and Tom sought out vendors to fill the space Tom’s original collection couldn’t. Ultimately, they handpicked five local vendors who met their criteria for both passion and quality.

“We don’t even know how they find some of this stuff.” Tom walked me over to the first rack in the store, telling me excitedly, “… Like, did you see this? A vintage Christian Louboutin nightgown — it’s got to be from the ‘60s or something!”

“We worked hard to curate our vibe, and keep our energy up,” Jim said. “We only selected vendors that we know take great pride in finding the best pieces, and who want to succeed.”

“We really feel so validated,” Tom added. “Since the moment we opened, we’ve been elated by the amount of love we’ve gotten. It has been nonstop.” Between the excitement of ArtPrize and a Sept. 24 shop crawl along the avenue, “we haven’t even found time to have our grand opening!”

(WKTV)

“This is the place I wished I had when I was a teenager,” Tom said proudly. “If there’s anything we want people to know, it’s that we are constantly changing! We move things every day. You can buy almost anything, even things straight out of your childhood memories.”

Head over to Decaydence Vintage for an amazing selection of vintage clothing, toys and home goods from local vendors as well as Tom himself. And stay tuned: Tom and Jim promise they will find time for that grand opening.

Decaydence Vintage (71 S. Division) is open 12-8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. While you’re in the neighborhood, also check out vintage offerings at Second Vibess (13 S. Division), Zabház (222 S. Division) and OTONO (317 S. Division).

This article provided by ArtGallery, located at 46 Division Ave. S. For more about ArtRat, visit the gallery’s website at www.artrat.us. To join ArtRat Gallery’s mailing list of events and exhibits, email matthew@artrat.us.

Seeking out the clues to the haunting of Belding’s library

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local History, Recreation, , ,
A little girl apparition has been reported at the Alvah N. Belding Memorial Library. (Wikipedia/Andrew Jameson)

By Wayne Thomas
Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters
WKTV Contributor

Some areas and buildings seem to be more likely to be haunted than others. Places more often reported as haunted include battlefields, old houses and buildings, including hotels, especially former brothels, hospitals, schools, museums, ships, churches, castles, cemeteries, and libraries. Libraries hadn’t made my original list of possible haunted locations but research reveals haunted libraries across the United States and around the world, as well as right here in Michigan.

After discovering testimony of witnesses reporting seeing and hearing apparitions in the children’s section of Belding’s Alvah N. Belding Memorial Library, Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters decided to investigate. Clues going in were a little girl apparition seen in the children’s section and many witnesses hearing her laughing. Additionally, music and a girl’s voice were heard when nobody was in the library and people spoke of feeling a presence, and electrical/computer disturbances.

Alvah Norton Belding (Public domain/By Unknown author – The National Cyclopaedia of American Biography, Volume XVIII, 1922, pages 416–417, Public Domain)

The disastrous fire of 1893 swept Belding’s Main Street and burned out the library. After the library was temporarily relocated a couple times, Alvah N. Belding of the silk manufacturers Belding & Brothers Company decided to build and give a library to the city of Belding. On March 21, 1917, the Belding City Council accepted the offer and agreed to “maintain the building in like beauty and form as a library for all time.”

This unique contract as outlined creates a scenario of unfinished business ”for all time.” This majestic structure is made of brick, slate, marble, and limestone and stands like a castle along the Flat River. The kinetic energy of the flowing river water combined with the building materials creates a perfect storm to record and store residual energy. With a residual haunting, there is no spirit involved, simply energy stored in the fabric of its surroundings, being played over and over in a loop, same time same place. Apparitions do not acknowledge the living, they are emotional imprints locked in time. The majority of reported hauntings are of this residual type as opposed to contact with spirits.

During the first investigation of the Belding Library, our recordings were typical of most cases, faint and few with “Get out” and “Go” repeated. We heard both male and female voices and an interesting child’s voice say, “Mommy I’m scared.” More importantly these ghost voices seemed to be spirits that were interacting with our questions or what ghost hunters call an intelligent haunting. We returned the following year and learned of the 100th anniversary of the library and the opening of a time capsule that had been cemented in an outside wall.  Could spirits be attached to these newly discovered historic items?

During this second investigation we recorded a class “A” electronic voice phenomenon (EVP), of a very loud whistle that everyone present could easily hear with just their ears. Does Alvah N. Belding patrol the premises to ensure the building is being “maintained in like beauty and form as a library for all time?” While this castle of stone appears to be a trap to record both routine energy and traumatic events surrounding people’s everyday lives or untimely deaths, evidence points to an intelligent or spiritual haunting.

An article written in 2011 by Rich Newman in “The Ghost Hunter’s Guide” discussing the Belding Library states, “Most believe the haunting involves the land the library is situated upon, or perhaps a past building/home that resided in the location prior to the library’s existence.”

Newman also spoke of an apparition of a young girl that has been heard by many. To that, I say to the little girl ghost “Go in peace and be freed from your suffering, seek out the light.”

Rayton Reilly in Tootsie

Broadway Grand Rapids kicks off season with ‘Tootsie’

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By John D. Gonzalez
WKTV Contributor

A new season for Broadway Grand Rapids kicks off Tuesday (Oct. 11) with a laugh-out-loud, hilarious musical sure to set the tone for another smashing season for Broadway lovers across West Michigan.

Payton Reilly as Sandy Lester in the National Tour of TOOTSIE. Reilly is from Michigan and a graduate of Western Michigan University. Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.

“‘Tootsie’ is a modern comedy classic,” said Jennifer Pascua, BGR’s new marketing director, who took over for Meghan Distel. Distel was named president & CEO when Mike Lloyd retired earlier this year.

Pascua said the musical production is the same “Tootsie” you love and remember from the movies, but updated.

“People can expect catchy songs with humor and heart. It’s funny, but sincere,” she added.

The week-long run continues through Sunday, Oct. 16, with eight performances at DeVos Performance Hall.

The cast of the National Tour of TOOTSIE. Photo by Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade.

In case you don’t recall the 1982 film with Dustin Hoffman, Sydney Pollack and Jessica Lange, “Tootsie” tells the story of a talented but volatile actor (Hoffman) whose reputation as a perfectionist makes him difficult. He adopts a new identity as a woman in order to land a job, and, well, that’s when things get pretty funny. The original movie revolved around a daytime soap opera, while the musical involves a Broadway musical.

Tickets are available for all shows, and “rush tickets” were just announced for students, educators and veterans, Pascua said.

Rush tickets are available for all performances. A valid school ID is required, and the limit is two tickets per person. All tickets are subject to availability. Tickets may be purchased in-person one hour prior to the performance at the DeVos Performance Hall Box Office, 303 Monroe Ave NW.

Performances are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and matinees at 2 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. The final show is at 6:30 p.m. Sunday.

Accessible performances: American Sign Language Interpreted at 2 p.m. Saturday. Open Captioning and Audio Description at 1 p.m. Sunday.

Matthew Rella

“Tootsie” has received a lot of praise. The Hollywood Reporter called it “the most uproarious new musical in years!” Rolling Stone said “in these turbulent times, when the world seems out of balance, we need a place to let the good times roll….musical comedy heaven.”

Pascua said the Broadway tour coming to Grand Rapids features two cast members from Michigan:

Payton Reilly a native of Howell who plays friend Sandy Lester, and Matt Kurzyniec from Livonia who is an ensemble member. Both are graduates of Western Michigan University. They are engaged.

The rest of Broadway Grand Rapids 2022-2023 Season includes:

SIX January 10 – 15, 2023

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the mic to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an exuberant celebration of 21st century girl power.

MY FAIR LADY April 11 – 16, 2023

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

Lerner & Loewe’s My Fair Lady boasts such classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly” and “On the Street Where You Live.” It tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed?

HADESTOWN May 9 – 14, 2023

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

Hadestown intertwines two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — as it invites you on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back.

DISNEY’S FROZEN July 11 – 23, 2023

Week 1: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

Week 2: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 7:30 p.m.; Friday 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

From the producer of “The Lion King” and “Aladdin,” “Frozen,” the Tony-nominated Best Musical, is now on tour across North America. Heralded by The New Yorker as “thrilling” and “genuinely moving,” Frozen features the songs you know and love from the original Oscar-winning film, plus an expanded score with a dozen new numbers by the film’s songwriters, Oscar-winner Kristen Anderson-Lopez and EGOT-winner Robert Lopez. 

Learn more at https://broadwaygrandrapids.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 also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s new. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also has a YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.

Wyoming hosts Trick or Treat Trail

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Recreation, ,

The Wyoming Trick or Treat Trail will be taking place this Saturday at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. The event runs from 4 – 6 p.m.

Reservations are not required. Costumes are encouraged. Area businesses will be handing out candy at various stations along the trail. It is estimated that about 2,500 people will attend the annual event.

“It takes a village to make this possible and we are very grateful for our sponsors and volunteers,” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, the city’s director of community service.

Did Hurricane Ian push out popular eagles?

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, Recreation, , ,

By Catherine Kooyers
WKTV Contributor

In 2017, Wyoming resident Catherine Kooyers wrote about the live eagle camera at the Pitchard Nest in Southwest Florida.

Through that story, Kooyers was pleasantly surprised at the number of Michiganders who mentioned that they have visited those nests and/or continue to monitor them.

The eagle cam operated by Florida-based Dick Pritchett Real Estate, Inc. has gone down due to Hurricane Ian. Neither Harriet or M15 have been seen since the storm. (Courtesy, Pritchett Real Estate, Inc.)

As many know, Hurricane Ian hit Florida earlier this week. This was listed as a category 4 storm meaning that well-built houses could sustained substantial damage such as lost of roofs or exterior walls and that trees could be snapped in half or uprooted with debris being a serious hazard.

Hurricane Ian landed near the Ft. Myers area, where one of nests was located. Kooyer did some research and discovered that the people in Ft. Myers have “put brave boots on” posting updates and photos.

Kooyer provides us with an update:

Some nests survived, others did not

Early reports show Sanibel Island devastated and it is unlikely nests survived but the teams remain hopeful.

The northeast Florida site reported their nest survived.

The southwest Florida nest on Pritchett property as well the residence took a direct hit from Hurricane Ian. The residential property and buildings are reportedly flooded and damaged but crews were starting repairs already. They had three cameras up and ready for the new season. 

It was reported that one tree fell. The camera attached maybe salvageable. One tree and camera survived the hurricane. However, the saddest part is the main tree which contained the gigantic eagle nest took a direct hit. The highly observed nest is gone and many key branches are gone.

Those who have viewed the nest may have recalled that it was was huge, weighed tons and was several feet deep. I recall a person being lifted by crane into the nest to retrieve ill eaglets. The size of that nest was mind-blowing and now, it is simply  gone. In the photos, it is nowhere to be seen.

What happened to the eagles?

The eagles, Harriet and M15, were last photographed and seen hours before Hurricane Ian hit landfall. I have not seen a report of any sightings of them since, but we retain hope they hunkered down someplace safe and will be back. If they survived and If they are well enough, there is reason to believe they will rebuild. One person even offered to load and deliver a truck of eagle-nest-size branches so the eagles would have the supplies they need to rebuild. But if the eagles do decide to rebuilt, whether it will be in the same location is uncertain.

The two eagles had started a second nest last year, but it was taken over by owls for a very vicious period. The territorial fights between the eagles and owls had us all holding our breath. Given all that, the team will wait to see which cameras are workable, if and when the eagles can come back and where the eagles do build. With all the missing trees and nests, past experiences showed there will be intense wildlife competition for remaining trees to rebuild in as the new nesting season begins.

An amazing season to start bird watching

In short, it is hard saying goodbye to that special nest that held so many stories and memories. Stories that amused us, taught us life lessons and motivated us to be better people with more understanding of the creatures that share our planet. I am not ready to write off Harriet or M yet. They are resilient and strong. Maybe their offspring survived and will return.

I do believe this would be an unusually amazing season to watch or start watching Florida Eagle cams and forums. It is fascinating watching the way they build homes that survive most hurricanes, then the new life cycle starts as they team up to provide for, protect and train the next generation of birds. I pray Harriet and M15 come back. But if they do not, I do suspect another eagle pair or owl will show up to entertain, educate and motivate us.

A word of thanks

Meanwhile, my heart goes out to the humans who went through so much and have much ahead. I have been advised a lot of help is there and coming. A special thanks to the Pritchett family which shares its eagles and property even as they themselves rebuild.  A deep gratitude to the photographers who go to that site in all weather to share so many views, events perspectives with us who are miles away.  And how super amazing are the people who set up the websites and forums hours after the hurricane. And it takes a brave person to mount and maintain the cameras with protective eagles nearby. Whatever happens in the next days and weeks, we appreciated times and memories past, but we also move forward.

If it helps, I watch the Pritchett Family live cams and forums. I also recommend highly the Hancock Wildlife Foundation live cam links. They have links to many cams of other species as well.  

Annual chili cook-off heats up as weather cools down

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local History, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By D.A. Reed
WKTV Journal Contributor

Aerial view of Sullivan (Valley) Field (Courtesy, Paul Soltysiak)

Even though temperatures are cooling off in West Michigan, competition heats up at the annual Grand Rapids cook-off recently renamed Chili Cook-Off at the Ballpark.

Historic Sullivan (formerly Valley) Field will host Grand Rapids’ annual chili cook-off on Saturday, Oct. 1, with all proceeds benefiting Fans of Valley Field and the organization’s renovation and restoration project of the ballpark.

Saving a historical gem

Called a historical gem of the West Side, Sullivan Field has been actively used often throughout the years, from ball games to concerts and symphony performances, and much more.

Baseball legend Jackie Robinson shakes hands with former Negro League player and Grand Rapids Black Sox manager Ted Rasberry. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum Collections)

“It’s fallen into disrepair,” said Dan Verhil, former Cottage Bar owner and Master of Ceremonies for the upcoming chili cook-off. “It needs a lot of TLC (tender loving care) to bring it back.” Verhil said the purpose of the cook-off is to help “raise the funds to restore this classical West Side beauty.”

Cottage Bar had hosted annual fall chili cook-offs since 1981, but “hit pause” in 2018 when Dan and his wife Lisa decided to sell the restaurant. Cottage Bar cook-off proceeds were donated to several different charities, with donations reaching approximately half a million dollars over 36 years.

In an effort to raise funds to renovate Sullivan Field, Fans of Valley Field approached the Verhils in 2021 and asked if Dan and Lisa would be willing to resurrect the chili cook-off if Fans of Valley Field did the legwork.

Passing the torch

“(Lisa and I) met with them, and we liked their sincerity and their integrity and said, ‘Let’s do it!’” said Verhil.

Already having the rules and framework for the cook-off in hand from previous years, Dan and Lisa shared their information with Fans of Valley Field. True to their word, Fans of Valley Field has done the legwork for both the 2021 and 2022 chili cook-offs, allowing Dan and Lisa to simply help guide the cook-off committee.

“Lisa and I are pretty much Master of Ceremonies now,” Verhil said. “Which is great because we can walk around and talk to friends, have fun, and MC the event.”

The first revival of the cook-off occurred in November of 2021 and was a big success even though it was late in the season, and Fans of Valley Field expect a good turnout again this year. The Chili Cook-off of the Ballpark boasts four live bands, 40 cooks—and some unique recipes.

Verhil said that, though all ingredients must be commercially processed for safety reasons, unique ingredients such as rattlesnake have been incorporated into recipes.

Discovering Grand Rapids’ own ‘Field of Dreams’

Learning about Sullivan Field has been enjoyable for Verhil. Though Verhil grew up in Grand Rapids, he lived on the southeast side and admitted that he never attended a game at Valley Field or knew much about the ballpark. When he joined Fans of Valley Field, however, that all changed.

Visitors to last year’s chili cook-off look over memorabilia of Sullivan (Valley) Field. (Courtesy, Paul Soltysiak)

“I researched it and explored the stadium,” said Verhil. “It’s just full of so much history, I became enraptured with the history of the project. It’s like a mini Wrigley Field. It’s really old school, but it’s old school cool.”

Verhil continued, “It was built in 1937 and, over the years, 95 MLB players have come through the system through Valley Field.” Included in that count of MLB players are Kirk Gibson, Al Kaline, Dave Rozema, and Mickey Stanley.

Verhil admitted that there were a lot of facts he did not know before joining Fans of Valley Field, and those facts are widely unknown throughout the Grand Rapids community. The purpose of restoring and revitalizing Sullivan Field is to help people become more aware of the stadium’s presence and all it offers the community.

For years, Valley Field has been used for city league and high school baseball games. “It’s still an active baseball field,” said Verhil. “It’s the home field for Union High School.”

In the past, Valley Field was also the home field for the famous Sullivan’s Furniture amateur baseball teams which won four national titles in the 60s and 70s. Before that, it was home to the Negro Leagues’ Grand Rapids Black Sox in the 40s and 50s.

A love for everything baseball

Howard J. Houghton (1936-2011) of Sheridan, Michigan, played baseball on Valley Field several times in the 60s. His daughter, Betsy Klingensmith of Fenwick, Michigan, said baseball was definitely a passion for her father.

Howard Houghton’s player pass for Valley Field. (Courtesy, Betsy Klingensmith)

“He played in high school and played on several leagues over the years,” Klingensmith said. “He did a lot of coaching while he was still playing. He loved to share his love and knowledge of baseball. We still have people he coached tell us about how much he helped them.”

Houghton not only shared his passion for baseball with people in the community, but with his family as well.

“When my oldest sister was old enough for Little League and came home upset that she couldn’t play baseball, Dad and Mom started a girls’ softball league and ran it for 13 years,” Klingensmith said. “He went back to (coaching) boys so he could coach my brother. He came out of retirement from coaching to coach with my sister for her daughter’s age group a couple of years before he passed.”

Klingensmith herself was only a couple weeks old when she attended her first baseball game.

Sharing their stories

“It’s a classic West Side gem,” said Verhil. “The West Side people are so passionate about this place. Most of the small, locally-owned businesses are all contributing something (to the cook-off). Everyone is so onboard to renovate this stadium because it seems like everybody has a story about Valley Field.”

When asked about his own personal Valley Field story, Verhil responds, “You guys are creating my story.”

To learn more about Chili Cook-Off of the Ballpark, click here: Chili Cook-Off

D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author

How to get inspired by visiting this year’s ArtPrize

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Going Local, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , ,
  • Artwork submitted to the “Voices” project (WKTV/D.A. Reeds)
  • “Dreams” is the piece artists Pamela Aldern and Michael Hyacinthe submitted. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
  • A close-up of the ribbon wall in the “Voices” exhibit. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
  • “Dreams” by Pamela Alderman and Michael Hyacinthe (WKTV/D.A. Reed)

By D.A. Reed
WKTV Contributing Writer

From aesthetics, to healing, to raising awareness of important global issues, ArtPrize 2022 offers something for everyone.

“Elephant Chunko” by Kristina Libby (WKTV/D.A. Reed)

“It’s well known that (people) can create a piece of art and…speak through the art, tell the story, tell the emotion, tell the journey through the art. That can be a very healing thing,” Pamela Alderman, artist and 12-year ArtPrize participant, told WKTV.

Since its inception in 2009, the international art competition ArtPrize has drawn millions of people to Grand Rapids and sparked endless conversations about art and why it matters.

Through Oct. 2, visitors have a chance to experience art in ways they never have before. During the 18-day event, art is exhibited throughout Grand Rapids, from public parks and museums, to galleries and vacant storefronts, to inside bars and on bridges.

Taking a stroll to see what can be seen

This particular reporter spent an enjoyable afternoon scouring the streets and venues of downtown Grand Rapids for art and found much more than was expected.

During her walk, the tutor meet Desert Storm veteran Aaron Ball who is showing his piece at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)

In a city already immersed in art, with performance halls, event arenas, and ground-to-rooftop murals decorating several outside walls of businesses and apartment buildings, ArtPrize enhances what Grand Rapids already has to offer.

As I walked from one end of the city to the other, gazing at incredible displays of art of every genre imaginable, I also tuned in to the people. Excitement dominated each venue and exhibit, with art enthusiasts alternating between intensity as they studied the exhibits and displays to gasps of amazement and delight. ArtPrize visitors ranged from young to old, and sported school groups, guests tightly clutching maps while trying to find their way, and others who were clearly natives to the area, striding with confidence and purpose.

But visitors are not the only ones to gain something from ArtPrize.

Using art to give people a ‘voice’

Veterans, led by artist and veteran wife Alderman, and veteran and entrepreneur Michael Hyacinthe, have found healing through art and community.

“Sometimes, when people are traumatized, they can’t put that trauma into words,” Alderman said, “but they can help work through that trauma through an art experience or creative opportunity.” Alderman went on to explain how stress is stored in the mind, but creative outlets can help release that stress.

“Art may not heal the whole person, but it certainly is instrumental in helping to begin that healing journey, or help to continue that healing journey,” said Alderman.

This collection of art by veterans can be found at Veterans Memorial Park and is titled Voices. Partnered with Kent County Veterans Services, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, and Hyacinthe’s non-profit Has Heart, Alderman and Hyacinthe’s Voices project is raising awareness for veterans while simultaneously providing a pathway to healing and creating a place for veterans to experience hope.

But Alderman and Hyacinthe wanted to do more. “We wanted to inspire dreams, to inspire kids to keep dreaming, keep thinking big, keep reaching for the stars,” Alderman said.

Inspiration knows no age

While venue curators of Voices, Alderman and Hyacinthe also entered ArtPrize as contestants. Their exhibit, Dreams, allowed children to send in drawings that the artists then turned into a large mural.

“The way children communicate also inspires adults. They’re so vulnerable, so honest, and so innocent that they also end up inspiring adults,” said Alderman.

It inspired this reporter. Veterans Memorial Park was my first stop, and I was not disappointed. Among the opportunity to view breathtaking artwork, I was able to meet and chat with Desert Storm veteran Aaron Bull, and also write a note on a yellow ribbon and tie it to a wall with hundreds of others that would later be distributed in care packages to active-duty soldiers.

Animals, quilts and more

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum hosts artist and mother Luba Sordyl, creator of Help Us. Sordyl created the acrylic painting containing 17 intertwined animals after learning about how chemicals in the water impacted the health of animals and the environment in general. She hopes to raise awareness about this important environmental issue with her artwork.

“United We Stand” by Andrew Lee at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)

Also displayed at the museum were handmade quilts titled Shock and Awe & United We Stand by veteran Andrew Lee. In visiting with viewers, Lee said that he created quilts as a way to heal after his two deployments to Iraq. Each quilt is made up of hundreds of individually cut squares of fabric and then given away to veterans once completed.

All ages will find something to enjoy at ArtPrize, with several interactive exhibits that delight both adults and children. Among these are scavenger hunts, mailbox cubbies ready for exploration, large, chunky animal sculptures with colorful bodies called Chunkos, a 12-foot fort, and a display where visitors can write and share their dreams.

To learn more about ArtPrize and find tips to make the most of your visit, click here: ArtPrize 2022.

D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author

The work of Mark Chatterly

For ArtPrize 2022, several organizations focus on a single artist’s work

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

Quality over quantity might be a theme for this year’s ArtPrize as several of the large institutions are featuring a single artist’s work.

This is the observation we saw as we pulled together the releases of several groups on their ArtPrize entries this year.

Grand Rapids Art Museum

The work of Mark Chatterly is featured at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Grand Rapids Public Museum/Mark Chatterly)

The Grand Rapids Art Museum‘s ArtPRize 2022 contribution is Andrea Dezsö’s “Family and Friends.” The large-scale mural on th eMuseum’s exterior and in the Museum’s lobby is comprised of imaginative creatures created by the artist during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the pandemic, Dezsö conserved materials by cutting leftover scraps of handmade Japanese paper creatures she saw as protector sand companions during the pandemic. In total, she created 117 unique characters, which she has continued to explore over the past few years through woodblock print, wood carving, and now mural installation. The ArtPrize piece by Dezsö will be up through Jan. 14, 2023. The Grand Rapids Art Museum is located at 101 Monroe Center St. NW.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum

This year, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is featuring the work of sculptor Mark Chatterly for its ArtPrize exhibit. Chatterly specializes in large-scale figurative sculptures in ceramic that focus primarily on the figure with a metaphysical theme. 

Chatterly’s “The Wall” is located outside of the museum on the north lawn. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is at 272 Pearl St. NW.



John Ball Zoo

The John Ball Zoo is hosting Disc Art, an interactive disc golf course featuring nine scrap metal features. Guests are invited to play the course for free and explore the large-scale art works. Discs will be provided or guests may bring their own.

Artist Stacy Rhines said she had the idea for about fives years and this winter, she actually had enough time to work on the piece. Each of the five goals are metal art sculptures made from repurposed. Rhines said she placed the tee and the goal about 80 feet apart, much less than a normal course, so that everyone could enjoy the activity. The John Ball Zoo is located at 1300 W. Fulton St.

Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park

A piece for the upcoming ArtPrize exhibit featuring the work of Mark Mennin. (Supplied)

The work of Mark Mennin will be featured as the Meijer Garden’s ArtPrize 2022. The exhibit, entitled “Embedded,” features three oversized stone beds situation outdoors on the Frey Foundation Plaza leading into the Welcome Center. This trip plays with perception of hard and soft, heavy and light.

Mennin’s ArtPrize piece will be up through Oct. 2. Mennin’s work is also featured in a fall exhibition at the Gardens, entitled Mark Mennen: Written in Stone which runs through Nov. 27. Frederik Meijer Gardens is located at 1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE.

ArtRat

ArtRat, located at 46 S. Division, will be hosting several free events throughout ArtPrize. Upcoming are The Hai-Cuu Experience, which features poet  and hip-hop musician Cuu JoSama, from 6 – 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22 and 29. On Friday, Sept. 23, will be a hands-on reception for Dean Hunt’s “evolutionARy,” an ArtPrize entry. The event is from 7 – 9 p.m. Sunday. Sept. 25, will be am music and dance performance from 5 to 6 p.m.

On Sunday, Oct. 2, will be the ArtRat’s ArtPRize wrap party will be from 2 – 5 p.m

Fall predicted to be hotter, dryer than normal this year

3-bottom, Great Lakes, Hard News, LANDSCAPING & GARDEN CENTERS, Recreation, , ,

By Genevieve Fox
Capital News Service

The National Weather Service predicts this year’s fall season will be 40% warmer compared to average mid-Michigan temperatures of 50 degrees from September through November. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

The National Weather Service predicts there’s a 40% chance the temperatures will average above normal this fall in mid-Michigan.

Meteorologist William Marino said warming fall temperatures have become more common in recent years.

That’s largely due to an ongoing La Niña, according to Marino, who is based in Grand Rapids.

 

That phenomenon allows for warm air to pass through the cool Pacific sea surface temperatures and enter North America.

Along with warmer fall temperatures predicted, low precipitation is also expected.

Jeffrey Andresen is the state climatologist for Michigan. He said roughly 30% of the state is experiencing some form of dryness, or even moderate drought.

With abnormal dryness, fall crops will reach maturity faster, lowering the quality of the crop, said Andresen, who is also a professor of meteorology/climatology in the Department of Geography, Environment and Spatial Sciences at Michigan State University.

“It’s good to have warm soils and so forth for that crop to germinate, but we do need moisture,” Andresen said.

To combat warming temperatures, Andresen said people should keep their eyes on long-term trends and plan as needed.

“We have to adapt to these changing long-term patterns,” Andresen said. 

Genevieve Fox reports for WKAR in partnership with Great Lakes Echo and Capital News Service.