Category Archives: Recreation

How I became a Model Railroader

Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, ,

 Or how I learned to be a child again

Model railroads have captured the imagination for decades.
Model railroads have captured the imagination for decades.
Ken Skopp is the Grand Rapids Valley Railroad Club's train show coordinator.
Ken Skopp is the Grand Rapids Valley Railroad Club’s train show coordinator.

by Ken Skopp

I was five-years old when I visited my grandparents in Waterloo, WI. A train track ran next to their farm. One day while I was playing near the track, a steam engine was moving freight cars back and forth. After some time passed, the steam engine stopped. The engineer leaned out of the cab and asked me if I would like to take a quick ride in the engine. I screamed “Yes!”

I rode with the engineer five miles down the track and back. I didn’t realize it then but I was bitten by the “train bug” and there is no cure.

Now fast forward, 60 years. My wife bought me a HO scale train set made by the Bachmann Company for Christmas. It had a steam locomotive, three passenger cars, a small DC power pack and a loop of track. I had model train layouts in the past but it had been 20 years since I had built my last layout. Those layouts mainly consisted of a track with a few buildings laid on a sheet of plywood. I started buying “Model Railroader” magazines to learn more information about what was available in the hobby.

Ken's model railroad uses the latest technology for the hobby.
Ken’s model railroad uses the latest technology for the hobby.

After being an “armchair railroader” (thinking and dreaming about building a model railroad), I decided it was time to start working on a layout. I wanted it to be more than just track on a piece of plywood. I wanted realistic track work and realistic scenery. One day I visited Rider’s Hobby Shop and found a flyer promoting a local train show. So I started going to train shows to see what new products were available in locomotives and cars. I was amazed at how many shows there are in Michigan and Indiana.

Two years ago this past November, I attended a train show at the Home School Building in Wyoming. At the show I bought a HO scale diesel locomotive and wanted to see if it worked. The Grand River Valley Railroad Club (GRVRR Club) which was running the show had a test track there. The club member who tested the engine invited me to visit their club. I did and discovered that many improvements had been made in the hobby. I realized that the ideas I had for my railroad would require learning new techniques from others who had more experience in the hobby. I joined the club three years ago.

Photos courtesy of Ken Skopp
Photos courtesy of Ken Skopp

Over the past three years, I have started a model railroad layout in a 9′ x 10′ room in our condo basement. Roger Fenske former president of the GRVRR Club helped me build the bench work, lay the track, wire the layout and how to make realistic scenery. Most importantly, I learned about Digital Command Control (DCC).

Up to the advent of DCC control, trains ran on electrical current from a DC transformer that powered the electrical motor in the locomotive. You could only run one locomotive at a time on your layout. If you wanted to run more than one locomotive, you had to divide the layout into isolated electrical blocks or segments. The wiring and controls are somewhat complicated and not very flexible.

Because of the advance in computerization and miniaturization provided by DCC, each locomotive has a computer chip in it with an individual address. With a DCC control cab, you can send signals to each individual locomotive address. This allows you to control the direction of motion, speed and sound functions for that particular locomotive address. So now, you can have multiple locomotives running at the same time on your layout and each is under individual control.

The Grand Rapids Valley Railroad Train Shows offer fun for kids of any age.
The Grand Rapids Valley Railroad Train Shows offer fun for kids of any age.

But the biggest advancement in locomotives is the sound in them. It brings them to life! You hear the chuffing of your steam locomotive as it moves on the tracks. You can ring it’s bell and blow it’s whistle just like a real train! Now I can have my Pere Marquette Railroad Steam locomotive chugging around my train layout while my diesel switcher locomotive is switching cars in a train yard. All this action is complete with realistic locomotive sounds – engines, bells, and whistles!

Model railroading is a hobby that combines, motion, sound, 3D modeling, painting, sculpting, woodworking, electrical work, historical research and so much more! At the Grand River Valley RR Club’s Train show on Saturday, April 11th, you can see all the aspects of the hobby in action. You’ll see everything from a Garden Scale railroad that you can put in your backyard to a Z scale railroad that you can fit on the top of a small desk. Your children will love the large LEGO operating layout, playing with LEGOs in the play area, and seeing a “Thomas the Train” display. In addition, there will be two large HO scale operating layouts provided by The Holland Modular RR club and the Battle Creek Model RR Club. I invite you to come and enjoy it all! There will be food available, free parking, door prizes and 120 tables of model railroad items for purchase.

 

Broadway Grand Rapids Ushers in Excitement With Its New Season

Local Entertainment, Recreation, , , , ,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhUekOm_YwY

mike_dewittSinging, dancing, laughing, drama, and a whole lot of theater will be making its way to Broadway Grand Rapids for the theater’s new season! Five shows are lined up to start in September and finish up in June of 2016 and the positivity and excitement has been overwhelming.

“This season we’re offering a custom ‘4-pack’ of shows for those who don’t want to purchase all five,” explained Meghan Distel, the Director of Marketing for Broadway Grand Rapids, “but we have sold very little of the 4-packs as most people are choosing all five shows. That shows the excitement for all the shows we’re bringing in!”

What’s all the excitement about? Well, Broadway Grand Rapids is bringing in a lineup of award winning shows to Grand Rapids. Broadway Grand Rapids 2015-16 Season

  • Newsies (September 22-27)
  • Pippin (November 3-8)
  • Riverdance 20th Anniversary Tour (April 12-17, 2016)
  • The Phantom of the Opera (May 18-29, 2016)
  • The Book of Mormon (June 21-26, 2016)

Getting together a lineup of shows of that caliber takes some work. Broadway Grand Rapids works on putting the shows together for around 12-18 months before dates are finalized. There is a lot of back and forth that occurs with the timing and use of the Devos Performance Hall and how they line up with the shows themselves and their tour dates.

Sometimes, there can even be structural barriers to overcome.

Broadway Grand Rapids had a massive hurdle to clear in order to bring The Phantom of the Opera to DeVos Performance Hall. Phantom uses very large set pieces that need space in the back to work during the show. The DeVos Performance Hall doesn’t have that necessary space right now, but it will be by the time Phantom rolls into town!

The backstage area will be expanded, and certain aspects of the floor and ceiling are to be reconfigured as well, in order to accommodate the show. As they say, the show must go on! It will all be worth it when show time is here. The city is already buzzing with excitement about the new lineup.

If you’re interested in purchasing tickets for the upcoming season, visit broadwaygrandrapids.com.

 

West Michigan Kids: The Ultimate Guide to Boredom-Busting in West Michigan

Local Entertainment, Local Food, Our Cities, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events,

by Courtney Sheffer

 “I’m bored” is something no parent likes to hear! Luckily,the West Michigan Tourist Association has collected a list of great kid-friendly places for you to visit, with everything from water parks to zoos, and museums to festivals. Keep this list on hand year-round for ideas to pull out when the kids start getting restless, or you’re looking to plan your next family outing!

South

A.W. Overhiser Orchards, South Haven: Hands on animal barn, hayrides, & child corn maze.

Allegan County Fair, Allegan: Live music, midway, & a historical village.

Allegan County Parks – Recreation and Tourism, Allegan County: Bike, hike, go boating, or fish outdoors.

Air Zoo, Portage: Rare & historic aircraft, amusement park-style rides, historical exhibits and educational activities.

Barn Theatre School for Advanced Theater Training, Augusta: Theatre training programs and performances.

Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival, Battle Creek: Nation’s largest air show and balloon festival.

Berrien County Youth Fair, Berrien Springs: Exhibits from youth ages 5-10 in August.

Binder Park Zoo, Battle Creek: African Adventures, Feed the Giraffes, Kids Zoo Programs.

Cass County Fair, Cassopolis: Firefighter show, supercross, and family dollar day.

Cornwell’s Turkeyville USA, Marshall: Turkey dinner, ice cream parlor, and dinner theatre.

Crane Orchards, Fennville: U-pick fruit, pie pantry, & cow train rides.

Dutch Farm Market, South Haven: Bakery, farm market, and ice cream.

Echo Valley, Kalamazoo: Tobogganing, tubing, and ice skating.

Farmers Alley Theatre, Kalamazoo: Seasonal performances with kids shows.

Gilmore Car Museum, Hickory Corners: Visit a car of Disney movie fame, watch Model Ts drive around, and eat at the Blue Moon Diner.

Historic Charlton Park: Village, Museum & Recreation Area, Hastings: Step back in time and tour historic buildings from Barry County, & head to their beach for swimming & a picnic.

Kalamazoo County Parks, Kalamazoo: Hike, beach, picnic, or farm market.

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, Kalamazoo: Visit the Interactive Gallery for a variety of fun games, puzzles, activities, and a reading corner to enjoy.

Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum, South Haven: Become a Bailey’s Budding Naturalist, tour one of the oldest homes in South Haven, and enjoy the gardens.

Michigan Flywheelers Museum, South Haven: Antique engine & tractor exhibit and display.

Michigan Maritime Museum, South Haven: Sail on the Friends Good Will restored tall ship and learn about Michigan’s maritime history.

Niles Haunted House, Niles: Michigan’s largest haunted theme park.

Olde World Village, Augusta: Visit for Frontier Days, Buccaneer Bash, or BlackRock Medieval Festival.

Saugatuck Dune Rides, Saugatuck: Learn of the lost town of Singapore or check out our local vegetation and wildlife on a dune tour.

The Silver Beach Carousel, St. Joseph: Ride the tigers, hippocampus, panda, and clown fish, and learn local history just steps from the beach.

Star of Saugatuck Boat Cruises, Saugatuck: Ride an authentic sternwheeler paddleboat down the Kalamazoo River and watch for wildlife.

Stokes Homestead, Grand Junction: Wagon rides, pedal karts, corn kernel crib.’

Tibbits Opera House, Coldwater: Attend “Popcorn Theatre” which includes a show, snacks, and meeting the actors. Coming up: “Peter Pan” this July!

Central

ArtPrize, Grand Rapids: Explore free art in and around downtown Grand Rapids.

Berlin Raceway, Marne: Weekly racing April-October, Special family events, discounted kids tickets.

Blandford Nature Center, Grand Rapids: Self-guided hikes, Children’s Camps, Visit Blandford’s Farm.

Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park, Alto: Hands-on wildlife experience, Exotic animals & reptiles, Feed the animals.

Cannonsburg Ski Area, Belmont: Ski lessons, special events, and winter trails.

Christmas Lite Show, Comstock Park: Over one million Christmas light display.

Community Circle Theatre, Grand Rapids: Magic Circle shows for kids and summer concerts.

Coopersville & Marne Railway, Coopersville: Vintage Train Car Rides, Seasonal themed outings, 90 minute rides.

Country Dairy, New Era: Visit the dairy cows, Learn how Ice Cream is Made, Enjoy a bottomless glass of milk.

Critter Barn, Zeeland: Hands-on educational farm, Hold, Pet, & Feed the Animals, Free Admission.

Danish Festival, Greenville: Annual Danish breakfast & Hans Christian Andersen Park.

Deer Tracks Junction, Cedar Springs: Wildlife safari by stagecoach, Live Theatre Show, Kids Play Area.

DeGraaf Nature Center, Holland: Knee-High Naturalist classes, adopt-an-animal, & nature programs.

Double JJ Resort, Rothbury: Splash in the water park, learn to ride a horse, attend a rodeo.

Double R Ranch, Belding: Hop on a hayride, float down the Flat River, ride a horse.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids: Children’s Garden, outdoor concerts, spring butterfly exhibit.

Festival of the Arts, Grand Rapids: Free outdoor arts, entertainment, & activities.

Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival, Grand Haven: Parades, fireworks, entertainment, carnival.

Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Rapids: Purposeful play and artful learning.

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, Grand Rapids: Play with a giant Lite Brite, make giant bubbles, and rock the stage at the Amigo Amphitheater.

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, Grand Rapids: School of theatre arts & performances.

Grand Rapids Public Museum, Grand Rapids: Walk under a whale skeleton, visit the streets of old Grand Rapids, & catch a planetarium show.

The Haunt, Grand Rapids: 20,000 square feet of fear to navigate your way through.

Holland Museum, Holland: Take a Family Ties or Native American tour.

Holland Princess/Holland Water Sports: Jet ski, boat rentals, and boat cruises.

Ionia Free Fair, Ionia: Free entertainment, live music, midway.

John Ball Zoological Garden, Grand Rapids: Pet stingrays & sharks at Stingray Lagoon, ride a camel, climb through the Sky Trail Ropes Course.

Klackle Orchards, Greenville: Apple orchard, school trips, Le Tour de Donut.

Lakeshore Museum Center / Hackley & Hume Historic Sites & Scolnik House, Muskegon: Visit the hands-on science center, learn about Michigan habitats, & walk through 10,000 years of natural history.

Lewis Farm Market & Petting Farm, New Era: Visit Jeffrey the camel, bounce on the giant jumping pillow, and feed animals at the petting farm.

Loutit District Library, Grand Haven: Kids programs, classes, special events.

Mac Woods Dune Rides, Mears: Climb the sand dunes in a Dune Scooter.

Michigan Historical Museum, Lansing: Explore an Upper Peninsula copper mine, stroll along a 1920s urban street & relive the 1957 Detroit Auto Show!

Muskegon Luge and Winter Sports Complex, Muskegon: Luge, snowshoe, sled, and skate.

Nelis’ Dutch Village Theme Park & Wooden Shoe Factory, Holland: Ride the arms of a windmill, watch wooden shoe carving, watch Dutch klompen dancing.

Pando Winter Sports Park, Rockford: Tubing, skiing, and snowboarding.

Parrot’s Landing, Mears: Rent a Jeep on the sand dunes, a jet ski in Lake Michigan, or take a guided dune tour.

Post Family Farm, Hudsonville: Hayrides, homemade donuts, & fall fun days.

Pumpkinfest, Zeeland: Fall activities & pumpkin contests.

Rainbow Ranch Horseback Riding, New Era: Horseback riding, riding lessons, and sleigh rides.

Ramada Plaza, Grand Rapids: Indoor pool with a three story water slide.

Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery, Grand Rapids: Apple haus, jumping pillow, hayrides, and corn maze.

Silver Lake Buggy Rentals, Mears: Cruise the dunes, picnic on the beach or swim in Lake Michigan in your own ATV or Dune Buggy.

Teusink’s Pony Farm, Holland: Pony ring rides, hay maze, feed the sheep and goats.

Tulip Time Festival, Holland: Klompen dancing, Kinderplaats, and thousands of tulips.

Unity Christian Music Festival, Muskegon: Live music, The Hide Out youth lounge.

USS LST 393 Veteran’s Museum, Muskegon: Board a WWII Landing Ship Tank, tour the galley & crews quarters, and watch a movie at night on deck.

USS Silversides, Muskegon: Spend the night in a WWII submarine or sign up for a Submarine Technology Program.

Van Singel Fine Arts Center, Byron Center: Theatre technology school program and off-Broadway shows.

West Michigan Whitecaps, Comstock Park: Cheer on the home team, join in a wacky game between innings, and root for a home run.

Windmill Island Gardens, Holland: Dutch carousel, fudge shop, and antique street organ.

North

Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, Boyne Falls: Michigan’s first SuperLOOP waterslide, Rip Zone Surf Simulator, Arcade & Snack Shack.

Dennos Museum Center, Traverse City: Hands on Discovery Gallery, Family Days, Inuit Gallery.

Econo Lodge Bayview, Mackinaw City: Pirates Adventure Indoor Waterpark, Beach access, Game room.

Fairview Beachfront Inn & Waterpark, Mackinaw City: Indoor & Outdoor water park.

Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum/Historical Society, Salt Ste. Marie: Explore the shipwrecks of the Great Lakes & visit the oldest functioning lighthouse on Lake Superior.

Historic White Pine Village, Ludington: Visit on a History in Action Day, or stop by Town Hall for some ice cream in a circa 1900 Ice Cream Parlor.

Interlochen Center for the Arts, Interlochen: Art classes, education, and performances.

Jacob’s Corn Maze, Traverse City: Corn maze, farm market, u-pick.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours, Mackinac Island: Take a horse-drawn narrated tour of Mackinac Island with stops at Arch Rock and the Grand Hotel.

Moomers Homemade Ice Cream, Traverse City: Homemade ica cream and dairy farm tours.

Music House Museum, Acme: Listen to a player piano, tour a mini Traverse City, and marvel at the sounds of the 18 foot tall Dance Organ.

Pine River Paddlesport Center, Wellston: Kayak, canoe, raft, SUP.

Shetler Family Dairy, Kalkaska: Open barn, flavored milk, farm store.

Traverse Tall Ship Co., Traverse City: Cruise Grand Traverse Bay, drop anchor for a quick swim, and learn to help pilot the ship.

Treetops Resort, Gaylord: Snowboard, ski, and participate in family activities.

Wildwood Rush Canopy Tours, Boyne City: Adrenaline-filled zip line tours through the trees.

 

Kentwood Looks Forward to its own Farmer’s Market

Our Cities, Recreation

janice_limbaugh

After long anticipation, Kentwood will host its own Farmers Market this summer.
After long anticipation, Kentwood will host its own Farmers Market this summer.

Fresh from scratch! That’s how Kentwood’s new Farmer’s Market is described by Denise Dawson, grant administrator for the city’s Parks and Recreation department. The Market will open on Saturday, June 13th and continue every Saturday until October 10th, satisfying the desire of many Kentwood citizens wanting to have one for some time. The plan came together as of late last year, thanks to contributions from the Economic Development Council and the completion of the Farmers Market Feasibility Study by the Michigan Farmers Market Association.

“Over the years, many residents have told us that they would like to see a market in Kentwood,” says Dawson, adding that the city had a Farmers Market documented as part of its Master Plan, EDC Strategic Plan and the Parks and Recreation 5 Year Park Plan.

Despite having several Farmers Markets going on in the area, Dawson says, “A market here will bring our community together where people can mingle with their neighbors and meet the local farmers.”

Vendors interested in participating should contact the City of Kentwood.
Vendors interested in participating should contact the City of Kentwood.

At this time, Dawson says they have contacted many potential vendors with several stating interest in being a part of Kentwood’s Farmers Market. “Since we are a new market, we have to start everything from scratch. Thanks to the support from our City Commission and other city departments, we are getting through this process.

“We hope to have a least 10 vendors and grow from there.”

The Kentwood Farmers Market will be located at the Richard L. Root Kent District Library parking lot on Breton Road SE. “This location will provide a great space for the vendors, an amphitheater for live entertainment, and a green space for recreational programs and activities,” she explains. Visitors to the Market can expect entertainment, family fun activities in partnership with the library and the Parks and Recreation department, and “…hopefully some food trucks to offer ready-to-eat items while people are  shopping,” says Dawson.

To stay up on the latest news for Kentwood’s Farmers Market grand opening, visit their Facebook page and click ‘Like.’

If anyone is interested in being a vendor at the Market or becoming a volunteer, contact Denise Dawson at 616-656-5323 or at dawsond@ci.kentwood.mi.us

Michigan Moments Come to Life in 2015 Official Pure Michigan Travel Guide

Local Entertainment, Recreation,

Pure Mich beach

by Michelle Grinnell

While Michigan’s winter wonderland is still in full swing, Pure Michigan is encouraging travelers to start thinking ahead to summer vacation with the release of the 2015 Official Pure Michigan Travel Guide. This free guide, available in both print and digital versions, highlights activities to enjoy across the state throughout this spring and summer.Pure Mich sunset

The full color publication will also be offered in a free, universally accessible digital edition, allowing users to access the guide from their desktop and laptop computers, as well as smartphones and tablets. The digital version also offers interactive features, including videos, photographic slideshows and a real-time feed of the latest daily travel stories from the Pure Michigan blog.

Pure Mich fish“Our travel guide is a tremendous opportunity to bring to life the diversity of experiences Michigan has to offer while serving as a resource for visitors planning a trip to the state,” said David West, Vice President of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan  Economic Development Corporation. “The information, imagery and insight in the travel guide help us to tell the dynamic stories of the people and places of Michigan.”

Individuals may request a copy of the 2015 Official Pure Michigan Travel Guide at michigan.org or by calling toll-free at (888) 784-7328. The guide will also be available at the 14 Michigan Welcome Centers across the state.

Feature stories in the 2015 Official State Travel Guide include National Treasures, featuring Michigan’s five national parks, 10 Ways to Love Lake Huron, My Kind of Beach to help visitors find their perfect Michigan beach and Golf Style, highlighting courses throughout the state. There is also a feature story on Detroit, which serves as the cover photo for this year’s guide.

Pure Mich campOther stories in the guide feature Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, paddling the Au Sable River, an introduction to sporting clays and pet friendly destinations. The guide also includes the popular Michigan Moments section, an events calendar, state park and camping information and contact information for Michigan convention & visitor bureaus and regional tourism associations.

In addition to the warm weather Official Pure Michigan Travel Guide – which will include the distribution of 650,000 copies with the March/April issue of Midwest Living – Pure Michigan will once again distribute separate fall and winter travel guides in 2015, highlighting travel opportunities in Michigan unique to each of those seasons.

The Pure Michigan Travel Guide was printed at Quad Graphics in Midland, Michigan.

Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy.

For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit: michiganbusiness.org. For Michigan travel news, updates and information, visit michigan.org.

10th Annual Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival Coming Soon

Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events

by Scott Graham and Deb Havens

Michigan winter beer festival tentA record 103 breweries and 1035 beers will be featured at the 10th Annual Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival, coming up Friday, February 27 and Saturday, February 28 at Fifth-Third Ballpark just north of downtown Grand Rapids. Tickets for Friday’s session, which will run from 3-7pm (2pm entry for Enthusiast Members), remain available for $45 each at MiBeer.com.

Overall, 1000 fewer tickets are available for Friday meaning slightly smaller crowds and shorter lines. Friday will also feature special beer releases and tappings, a live ice carving demonstration by The Ice Guru Randy Finch, sideshow acts and street performers, musical entertainment and fireworks (weather permitting). If the Friday session does not sell out prior to the event, tickets will be available at the gate for $50 the day of. There will NOT be tickets at the gate on Saturday.

The impressive list of breweries and beers can be viewed here: http://www.michiganbrewersguild.org/2015wbf-beer-list

Michigan ranks #5 in the nation for the number of craft breweries – thus supporting its claim as “The Great Beer State”.

 

Ideal Park Restoration Plan Update

Our Cities, Recreation,
Ideal Park Planning mtg
Ideal Park residents came to the meeting in January to give their input on the restoration plans.

meghan_dooley

The Ideal Park restoration plan was passed by the Wyoming City Council during Monday night’s meeting.

Now that the plan has been passed,  Wyoming’s Director of Community Service Rebecca Rynbrandt said in a statement that they do have to take additional steps in order for the process to be finalized.

“Our next steps will be to amend the City’s 5-year Community Recreation Plan, incorporating the newly approved Ideal Park plan for the State of Michigan and begin writing grants,” Rynbrandt said. “We plan on doing tree planting this spring and fall, and continuing to perform remnant clean up yet this spring. Construction of the primary park plan will occur after we obtain funding.”

Overall, residents want to ensure that the park’s historic elements remain intact throughout its restoration.

Proposed restoration by P.M. Blough Incorporated.
Proposed restoration by P.M. Blough Incorporated.

 

Set Sail for the South Pacific

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events

susanne_albaitis

South Pacific Marjorie Steele
Majorie Steele, member of the local Board of Directors for the American Red Cross, shows off vintage Red Cross uniforms and supplies used during World War II, the era in which “South Pacific” takes place.

Set sail for the South Pacific with the Grand Rapids Civic Theater from February 27 through March 22.  An amazing cast will take you to the other side of the world and back in time to World War II. This iconic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical tells two honest love stories from a different era where prejudice often complicated romance.

The first of these romances is Nellie’s, a lively nurse from Arkansas. Upon arriving in the South Pacific, she is quickly swept up in a romance with Emile who is a local plantation owner. When Nellie learns of his romantic past with another local, she refuses his proposal.

Lieutenant Joe Cable’s story is the second. His love affair with Liat, the young daughter of Bloody Mary who is a local grass skirt peddler, leaves him struggling with his prejudices and fears of social consequences.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s play, South Pacific was based on James A. Michener’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book, Tales of the South Pacific. They believed that their musical adaptation could be financially successful and would also send a strong, open-minded message on the prejudices that were prevalent in the 1940’s.

In addition to the social message of South Pacific, there are the wonderful songs that are still sung today. “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair” and “Some Enchanted Evening” are two of the musical’s hits that have been sung for generations.

Civic Theater has partnered with the Red Cross for this production of South Pacific. The Red Cross had a strong presence in World War II when volunteers soared from 17,000 to 7.5 million. Volunteers supported service men and women by donating blood and also serving alongside the military in the South Pacific. The Red Cross has organized a letter writing campaign that will take place during the performance. Audience members can write a note of thanks to veterans who are returning home.

Come escape this Michigan winter and see South Pacific at Grand Rapids Civic Theater. Show times are 7:30 PM Wednesday through Saturday with a 2 PM matinee performance on Sunday.

Butterflies Fly Free at Meijer Gardens

Area Education, Local Entertainment, Recreation,

by Andrea Wolschleger and Deb Havens

Dreaming of a green paradise where you can shed your coat, toss off your hat and feast your eyes on exotic wildlife? Now add hundreds of colorful butterflies flitting so close some even land on your hand, your hair, your kids!

From March 1 through April 30 the dream comes true at Meijer Gardens Butterfly Exhibit.

For the past 20 years, Meijer Gardens has brought more than 7,000 tropical butterflies to West Michigan from Africa, Asia, South and Central America. It’s the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the nation.

horizontal butterfllies

Approximately 50 colorful species will fly freely in the five-story Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. At 85 degrees and 70 percent humidity, this balmy environment mimics tropical regions where the butterflies thrive.

Visitors can learn about the life cycle of the butterflies in the Butterfly Bungalow, where adult butterflies emerge from cocoons and spread their wings for the first time.

Included in the species arriving from this area are the Columbian and Common Morpho, two visitor favorites whose blue iridescent color seems to change in flight, in addition to many others.

The butterfly exhibit attracts more than 170,000 visitors from all over the nation each year. For more information contact awolschleger@meijergardens.org or call 616-975-3155.

 

Wyoming KDL offers Rockford Brewing Company Tour

Area Education, How-To's, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, ,

by Deb Havens

It’s no secret that West Michigan is home to Beer Mania, but if you want the secrets behind the Rockford Brewing Company’s signature beers such as Rogue River Brown, Sheehan’s Irish Stout and Paradigm MPA, you’ll save the upcoming date: The Wyoming branch of the Kent District Library has teamed up with the Rockford Brewing Company to offer a facility tour on Tuesday, February 10 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. The brewery is located at 12 E. Bridge Street in Rockford.

After the tour, show your Kent District Library card and Wyoming KDL branch tour partners will get you a special deal on beer tasting. Plus, they’ll help you unlock the secrets of home brewing your own beer with KDL materials ready and waiting for check out.

Renew your license at Michigan International Auto Show

How-To's, Our Cities, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, ,

by Deb Havens

The Michigan International Auto Show features more than 300 new sedans and sports cars, trucks, SUVs, hybrids — and the Secretary of State Mobile Office. “Our full-service Mobile Office is designed to make taking care of business fast and easy,”  Secretary of State Ruth Johnson said.

Customers visiting the full-service Secretary of State booth can renew their drivers license, get license plate tabs, change their address, update their voter registration, sign up on the Michigan Organ Donor Registry or order a replacement vehicle title. The Mobile Office hours are:

  • Thursday, Feb. 5 – 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Friday, Feb. 6 – 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Saturday, Feb. 7 – 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Sunday, Feb. 8 – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Look for the Mobile Office located near the Ford display.  SOS services are available online as well at www.ExpressSOS.com.

The 2015 Michigan International Auto Show at DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. N.W. in Grand Rapids, begins Thursday, February 5th and runs through Sunday, February 8th.

GRandJazzFest Announces 2015 Dates for Fourth Annual Festival

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, , ,

2015-GRandJazzFest-Logo-for-Web-HeaderGRandJazzFest presented by DTE Energy Foundation returns to Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids, Mich., Aug. 15 and 16, the fourth consecutive year for West Michigan’s only free, weekend-long jazz festival.

The two-day festival will again be free thanks to presenting sponsor DTE Energy Foundation, the City of Grand Rapids and other sponsoring organizations and individuals.

“GRandJazzFest is one of the most diverse and well-attended events in West Michigan. As a major event, it has established its own name on the jazz scene in Michigan and the Midwest,” DTE Energy Regional Manager Roger Royer said.

More than 10,000 people attended the 2014 festival.

“Grand Rapids loves its jazz,” GRandJazzFest Founder Audrey Sundstrom said. “People came from as nearby as local neighborhoods and as far away as other states and Canada. With the great turnout and positive feedback, we’re excited to be producing a fourth annual festival.”

Festival planning for 2015 is underway, with artist selections to be announced in the spring. Like last year, 10 diverse jazz artists and bands will perform, including a major headline act.

Sundstrom said diversity of the lineup is key: “Jazz has so many sub-genres – Latin, straight-up, contemporary, soul and big band, to name a few. If diversity has a sound, it’s the sound of jazz.”

“DTE Energy Foundation is proud to support the diversity and vibrancy that GRandJazzFest brings to downtown. We’ve been so pleased with the past three GRandJazzFests and look forward to the fourth annual event!” Royer said.

Grand Rapids city commissioners approved GRandJazzFest as one of 24 events that it will co-sponsor in 2015, a distinction only given to events that have proven to be successful and enrich the community.

In addition to DTE Energy Foundation and the City of Grand Rapids, sponsors for the 2015 event to date include Experience Grand Rapids, Amway Hotel Corporation, Ellis Parking, Swift Printing, Gilmore Collection, Moxie Men Incorporated and Intent Public Relations.

Sponsorship opportunities are available here: http://grandjazzfest.org/sponsors/

“We are so grateful to all of our sponsors for their support,” Sundstrom said. “We’re seeking additional sponsors to join our sponsors from last year in bringing a full weekend of free jazz performances to West Michigan!”

People can get a taste of what past GRandJazzFests were like by viewing the “recap” videos here: http://grandjazzfest.org/newsroom/video/

More information on GRandJazzFest can be found at www.grandjazzfest.org, and at the festival’s Facebook and Twitter sites – www.facebook.com/grandjazzfest and www.twitter.com/grandjazzfest.

Vote Now: Wyoming Student Section Nominated for Best in Michigan

Recreation, Sports, ,
Wyoming's student section is up for best in the State.
Wyoming’s student section is up for best in the State.

mike_dewittWyoming High School is up for a prestigious award. Not one based on classroom merit or athletic achievement, but one where students come together for a common cause. This award takes place in a gymnasium, but instead of happening on the court, it takes place in the bleachers.

 

MLive released their 64 nominees for Michigan’s Best High School Student Section and Wyoming is garnering some votes! As of Tuesday morning, Wyoming High School ranked second in the State.

 

The first poll is open until 6 p.m. on Thursday and fans can vote once per hour. On Friday, the list will be narrowed down to 10 and another poll will decide the best student section in Michigan!

 

To vote, visit MLive.com.

 

The winner will be crowned Thursday, February 5th.

One Wyoming 1 on 1 mentors make a difference

Area Education, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Recreation, Senior Living,

One Wyoming 1 on 1No headline can capture the impact of becoming a mentor to a child. On Tuesday, January 27, 2015 from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Wyoming Library (3350 Michael Ave. SW) mentors with One Wyoming 1 on 1 will share their experiences in a new mentor training session.

 

However, many adults have two big questions about mentoring: The first is the fear that we don’t have enough time. The second involves questions like “What will we talk about?” or “I don’t know enough to help with homework,” or “What if the child has problems I can’t deal with?”

 

You are invited to learn that every one of your questions has an answer, plus the time requirements are minimal – you won’t believe what you can accomplish in 15 minutes! Adults take for granted the benefits the child enjoys – special attention, help with classwork, getting out of class when you visit! I promise your life will be immeasurably enriched by the very special moments you share with the children fate chooses us to mentor.

 

I know the questions, the concerns and the rewards because for the past four years, I’ve been a mentor to Amber. When we met, she was 11 years old, a 6th grader who was struggling academically and socially. Her future was charting toward failure; everyone in her life was concerned.

 

As a former teacher, I didn’t have too many fears about interacting with a child I had never met before. On the other hand, I had never taught in middle school. I had absolutely no clue about today’s social pressures beyond hazy memories of my own checkered journey through popularity, puberty, and academic performance. I assumed the negatives would be more intense today and I worried I wouldn’t be up to meeting Amber’s needs.

 

Ultimately, Amber’s needs were very simple – to be encouraged, listened to, and to be there when I said I would; someone she could count on. This is not to say that nobody else met those needs for Amber. We just talked about what she wanted to talk about: what made her mad, who wanted to fight her, teachers she didn’t like, course work she hated. Every once in a while, I would ask her a question: “Do you want every day of your life to be like this?” And she would pause…..Wyoming One on 1

 

And in that moment of hesitation, the world changes for the child. Then you listen some more. That’s my take on mentoring. I’m sure there are many other versions of the same journey the child takes to becoming a young adult: The escape from anger and frustration to seeing the world filled with choices, each that has fairly predictable consequences.

 

Today Amber is fifteen, a freshman in high school who has overcome enormous challenge. She faces more ahead, but we are both confident of her future success – college, a career, and a life of smart choices.

 

Neither of us can imagine life without each other now, which is a huge bonus I never expected. Not everyone will form life-long attachments with the children we mentor. Most relationships involve short visits at the child’s school. But as I followed Amber through 6th grade, I knew I wanted to stick with her, to support the gains she was making. Plus, she’s a terrific kid! Gutsy, smart, with a great sense of humor.

 

By the time Amber left 8th grade, here is an excerpt of a letter she wrote to the teachers at her school. “All of you have taught me things through my 2 years of coming here that I will never forget. I will carry on everything that you taught me, because it wasn’t just school work, it was about life and how to take what comes at you.” Eventually Amber and I journeyed to the day when she asked me, “So what do you want the rest of your life to be about?” I invite you to consider what you want your life to be about. For me, mentoring has supplied an important part of the answer.

 

You will meet many mentors with wonderful stories at the One Wyoming 1 on 1 mentor training session. Invite a friend. Refreshments will be served! Please RSVP to info@onewyoming1on1.org

Party in your Parka this Saturday to Celebrate the Mitten!

Recreation, Sports, , ,

Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the

Muskegon Winter Sports Complex

by Jim Rudicil, Muskegon Winter Sports Complex and Janice Limbaugh

The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex is celebrating its 30th year and we are inviting you to the celebration. This is an all ages, day-long family-fun event. Bundle up the kids and come out to celebrate all that the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex has to offer and the great outdoors. In addition to all the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex offers, several kid and family activities are planned throughout the day.

This is a FREE event, however; if you choose to participate in some of the winter activities available at the Winter Sports Complex, there are costs associated with attending the party. The Muskegon Luge & Sports Complex, Muskegon State Park’s pricing list regarding trail fees, equipment rental, and luge lessons and that pricing may be found here: http://www.msports.org/pricing concessions are available for purchase throughout the day.

Please note that because the Winter Sports Complex is nestled in the State Park, you will also need a Michigan State Park pass to park for free. If you do not have a sticker, one may be purchased the day of the event at the complex for $11 and it is good all year for every state park in Michigan!

PARTY IN YOUR PARKA  is an event designed to showcase both the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex and celebrate winter in Michigan. The Watermark is pleased to work with the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex to present an event designed to expose Michiganders to the people, places and organizations who celebrate the experiences of these peninsulas through music, art, food, drink, sports, and winter fun.

We are also excited to include an artist tent to PARTY IN YOUR PARKA! The “Made in the Mitten” tent will offer arts & crafts from local Michigan artisans. We look forward to promoting Michigan based businesses as well as working with talented local artists that make our state so unique!

WHO: The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex and The Watermark

WHAT: Party in Your Parka – a day-long Muskegon Winter Sports Complex Anniversary Celebration!

WHEN: January 24, 2015 starting at 10 a.m.

SCHEDULE: 10am – Complex Grounds/Activities Open – WSC will be open all day for luging, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, skating and sledding. Your welcome to enjoy these activities all day and at your leisure.

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  “Made in the Mitten” vendor art tent

Bring your own skis or rent Cross country skis at the Lodge.
Bring your own skis or rent Cross country skis at the Lodge.

 

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Kids activities in the “Made in the Mitten” art tent

Noon – 5 p.m. Live music with Christopher Cordle, RJ Nordlund and Jason Bryant inside the heated “Made in the Mitten” art tent

1 p.m. – World Snurfing Classic

3 p.m. – 4 p. m. Snurfer Awards

6 p.m. – Luge Lounge opens with a Dance Party featuring DJ Jef Leppard and hosted by Watermark Live. Help us toast the Winter Sports Complex and celebrate Michigan in the winter! Our Luge Lounge features a beverage area showcasing Michigan beer and wine from around the state as well as local craft favorites. Beer and wine will also be available throughout the day inside the “Made in the Mitten” art tent.

Sledding, ice skating and snurfing are some of the other family activities to enjoy!
Sledding, ice skating and snurfing are some of the other family activities to enjoy!

7 p.m. – 11 p.m. Open to all ages and free admission to the Luge Lounge Live Entertainment and dance party featuring DJ Jef Leppard and hosted by: Watermark Live

FOOD/BEVERAGES – Fatty Lumpkins Sandwich Shack will be on hand with their famous, award-winning sammies in the “Made in the Mitten” heated art tent during the day from 11am – 5pm. Drip Drop Drink will also be in the tent with some of the best, artisan coffee and hot beverages on the lakeshore. The Made in The Mitten tent will also serve Michigan beer and wine and feature local and state-wide craft beer options. Food and beverages are also available in the lodge as well.

Download a map of the complex here.

*There are trail fees and costs associated with some of the winter activities available at MWSC please visit their website for rates: http://www.msports.org/

Musk logoActivity locations:

All events and activities are held on-site at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex with the exception of the Snurfer Classic which is held just down the road at the Block House.

LODGE: Bathrooms, fire, concessions, equipment rentals, information.

LUGE AREA: Main stage, Luge Lounge activities – nightime events – night time Beverage area featuring the best in Michigan beer! All ages! FREE!

STAY WARM: Dress according to the weather. We will have warming stations throughout the complex but dress warm! This event is designed to be outside! So bundle up the kids and come out to celebrate the great state and the great outdoors.

PARKING: Motor vehicle permit/ recreation passport required to enter. The cost is $11 a year for Michigan residents and is available at Secretary of State when you renew your license plates. For out- of- state vehicles the cost is $8 for a day pass or $29 for a annual/year pass. These can be purchased at the MWSC when you arrive. We recommend carpooling!!!

Special Surprises:

Luge Lounge – Featuring DJ Jef Leppard hosted by Watermark Live. This is a FREE, ALL AGES dance party featuring a main stage nestled in the crook of America’s only public luge. You can expect a beer lounge full of the tastiest beers and wine as well as great hot beverages by Drip Drop Drink.

Luge Lounge special entertainment:

Get ready for mind-melting LED hoop light shows from Mike and Shaina, performers from Grand Rapids, MI. They have performed for acts such as The String Cheese Incident, Papadosio, Phuturprimitive and many more. They are bringing their energetic hoop style to warm up this cool event. Keep an eye out for the crazy lights!

“Mousetrap” keeps audiences guessing

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Recreation, , ,

susanne_albaitis The world’s longest running play, Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap,” is now showing on Grand Rapids Civic Theater’s stage.  This same play has been running continuously in London’s West End for sixty-three years.  Christie adapted the play from a radio show called “Three Blind Mice.”

 

The curtains open to a very impressive set.  Two open arches, two arched doorways, thick wooden trim, period furniture and snow falling outside the window take the audience to an English inn so many decades ago.  All of these details bring the viewers into the scene and make the characters even more believable.

mousetrap 4
Nervous house guests try to survive a vacation that’s become murder.

A radio broadcast sets the stage with a startling bit of information that a murderer is close by.  A pledge is exacted from the audience to keep the ending a secret, then the play jumps right into the first murder scene.  The audience is left with an eerie whistling of “Three Blind Mice” and the guessing begins.

 

We are introduced to each of the inn’s guests one at a time.  Wren, an odd, child-like architect, is the first guest to arrive.  He brings comic relief to every scene, but also great suspicion because of his attachment to nursery rhymes, like “Three Blind Mice.”

 

Mrs. Boyle and Major Metcalf are next to arrive, followed by Miss Casewell and then Mr. Paravicini.  Some of the guests have reservations and a few do not.  As each guest arrives, many suspicious hints are given.  And each is dressed exactly as the murderer is described on the radio report. No one is quite who they appear to be. Everyone has secrets.

 

Like other Christie tales, everyone is trapped in the same house with no way to call for help. Yet it’s frighteningly clear the murderer is among them. And then what happens…?

 

Come enjoy the suspense that has made “The Mousetrap” London’s longest running play.  The play runs January 16 – February 1.  Show times are Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 PM; Sundays matinee at 2 PM.

Ideal Park Residents Weigh in on Future Plans

Our Cities, Recreation

janice_limbaughDespite winter storm warnings, blinding snow and biting cold temperatures, Ideal Park residents braved the elements last Thursday to attend a public meeting regarding the latest plans for restoring their neighborhood namesake. According to Rebecca Rynbrandt, Wyoming’s director of community services, the Ideal Park Christian Reformed community center was packed – much to her delight!

Ideal Park was loved for its dense tree canopy now lost from July's tornado.
Ideal Park was loved for its dense tree canopy now lost from July’s tornado.

 

“It turned out to be a really good crowd and a robust discussion about the proposed park plans,” Rynbrandt said. “Residents were pleased that we captured the recommendations they gave us from the first meeting.”

 

During the initial meetings, residents stressed their primary restoration concerns to be maintaining the historic character of the park and connection to the Interurban Trail, the implementation of reforestation, and the preservation of natural habitat.

Proposed restoration by P.M. Blough Incorporated.
Proposed restoration by P.M. Blough Incorporated.

Rynbrandt says that in addition to input from residents, suggestions have also come from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the Kent County Drain Commission. “We need to consider that this is a complicated ecological site,” she explains. “It’s a flood plain and a flood way, so whatever type of restoration we do, we have be sure it doesn’t add to flood concern.”

 

One of the changes being considered is eventually moving shelters from the west side of Buck Creek to the east side to be closer to the parking lot for the convenience of visitors. Another change suggests one larger playground on the east side as opposed to having two separate playgrounds.

 

Rynbrandt added that residents showed no desire about having tennis courts so those will be removed and restored basketball courts added.

 

Before it’s finalized, the Ideal Park restoration plan will go through the city’s systematic approval process, Rynbrandt explains. The plans will be discussed first by the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Planning Commission before going before the City Commission February work session.

Chief Heroine Jill Hinton Wolfe Blends Books and Outdoors

Local Business, Recreation,
Jill Hinton Wolfe leads a not-so-average bookclub
Jill Hinton Wolfe leads a not-so-average book club

kathy_grayWhen you think of a book club meeting what picture comes to mind? A group of mousy women gathered in a library, book store, or cramped living room sipping tea and discussing the merits of one Mr. Darcy? What if the scene were moved to a glowing campfire under the northern skies, enjoying a glass of Michigan-made wine, after a day of exploring the wonders of nature?

 

Outdoor Book Club may be just the adventure you have been looking for!

 

A fledgling business started by Jill Hinton Wolfe, Outdoor Book Club strives to lead women into the outdoors to discover their hidden talents while incorporating all the stimulating and lively discussions a great book can elicit. Hinton has established herself as the chief heroine in her new adventure.

 

Once a marketing executive with Priority Health, Hinton found herself wanting more than a 9 to 5 cycle of attending endless meetings and sales presentations. “I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur,” confides Hinton. She also knew that she wanted to do something to empower women to reach beyond their limits; to try something new.

 

Hinton was deeply interested in literature and writing, stating, “I’ve been a writer since I could hold a pencil.” Research led her to find that no one had a business model that incorporated the wonders of nature and the great outdoors with literature. An idea was born.

 

Hinton, an army veteran, attended a conference by the IVMF (Institute for Veterans and Military Families) in Chicago. It was there she was encouraged to enter her business concept into the Citibank Realizing Your Dream Business Competition for Veterans – a call for veterans who are aspiring entrepreneurs to submit small business plans to share in $130,000 of seed funding. Screen Shot 2015-01-13 at 10.53.33 AM

 

Research and planning, and relying on her marketing background, cemented many of Hinton’s ideas in a working business plan that drew the attention of the judges. Hinton was among 17 semi-finalists who presented their final pitch in January 2013, in Long Beach, California. Hinton won Third Place and a prize of $10,000. Her Outdoor Book Club became a reality.

 

Having experienced divorce herself, Hinton expressed a desire to teach women to trust their instincts, take risks, and live a more adventurous life. Her initial thought was to appeal to single professional women, those with kids, those who were divorced or living independently. “I was surprised how the book tours appealed instead to Baby Boomers, those women who were seeking a challenge while maybe their husbands preferred to sit on the couch watching sports.”

 

Outdoor Book Club has many idea templates for book trips and workshops listed on their website (Outdoorbookclub.org). Options include hiking, biking, kayaking, backpacking, and wine tours. Hinton supplies all the necessary equipment for each adventure, as well as providing healthy, locally sourced meals and snacks. “We have fun with it. Each menu is based on the book’s theme,” explains Hinton.

 

Trips can be tailored to those who have very little outdoor experience to those who enjoy a strenuous physical challenge. Being a veteran and an experienced camper, Hinton does not claim to be an expert. Although at home in the outdoors, she is open to learning and trying new things with her clients. “I recently tried mountain biking and found that IJill Hinton Wolfe really love it!”

 

As much as the focus of the trips is on literary discussions and outdoor activities, Outdoor Book Club is really about getting outside of your comfort zone. Hinton encourages women to stretch their abilities to the limit or discover something new about themselves, as it leads to increased confidence in all aspects of life. Hinton shares, “It is incredible to look back at a trip and hear a woman say ‘I never thought I could do this.’”

 

Hinton is not short-sighted on the future of Outdoor Book Club. As any reader knows, there are so many excellent books and so many places authors urge you to explore. “I think it would be great to do a trip to India while reading Eat, Pray, Love or explore Key West while reading Hemingway.”

 

Expanding to national and international tours leaves the future wide open for growth. As Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love expressed, “I’m making space for the unknown future, to fill up any life with yet-to-come surprises.”

 

Outdoor Book Club has several upcoming workshops and trips scheduled including:

 

Meditation Retreat ( January 30-February 2) at Circle Pines Retreat Center. Book Selection is Wherever You Go There You Are by Jon Kabat Zinn

 

Women’s Empowerment Camp (February 20-22) in Manistee, Michigan. Book selection is Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed.

 

Women’s Wine Camp (March 20-22) in Traverse City. Book selection is Sideways by Rex Pickett

 

Finding the Guts to Start Your Own Business (March 7) at the Blandford Nature Center. Book selection is #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso.

You’ve shared your ideas – Did we listen?

Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events

Ideal Pk storm.jpbCome see what is Planned for Ideal Park!

by Rebecca Rynbrandt, Director of Community Services, Wyoming

 

On December 2nd we invited you, your neighbors, school representatives, business leaders and citizens throughout the City of Wyoming to share visions for a “new” Ideal Park master plan. We then sought input from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, the Kent County Drain Commission, and City Engineers; and consulted the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood maps to help inform us on what can be developed in the park and where.

 

Our consultant PM Blough, Inc. has taken all this information in, considered current and future recreation trends, and the unique role that Ideal Park plays in mitigating area flooding. It is now time to present to you and the community the draft park master plan. We are eager to hear your feedback.

 

Your reaction and opinion is actively sought and greatly desired!Ideal Park Pav

 

Please join the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department and our consultant P.M. Blough, Inc. as we present to you the proposed master plan:

WHEN
Thursday, January 8, 2015 at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE
Ideal Park Christian Reformed Church Activity Center, 320 56TH St SW, Wyoming, MI 49548

Ideal Park

 

Everyone who has an interest in Ideal Park’s use and development is strongly encouraged to attend this meeting. If you are unable to attend, written comments may be submitted to the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department at P.O. Box 905, 1155 – 28th St. SW, Wyoming, MI 49509 or may be emailed to Parks_info@wyomingmi.gov.

 

On behalf of the City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission, thank you for helping make our community a wonderful place to live, work and play.

Christmas Recipe: Gingerbread Pancakes

Local Food, Recreation, WKTV Projects,

This Christmas season, Wyoming Now Kentwood Now will be bringing you recipes to enjoy the holidays!

Gingerbread Pancakes

 

Need an idea to spice up breakfast, something that won’t take long but everyone around you (yourself included of course) will enjoy? Try these gingerbread pancakes! An idea that’s as easy as it is tasty!

 

Original recipe makes 10 pancakes

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground dried ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 1/2 cups water

 

Directions:

  1. Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, and cinnamon in a bowl; set aside. Beat the egg in a separate mixing bowl with the vanilla and molasses until smooth. Whisk in the water until completely incorporated. Stir the flour mixture into the molasses mixture until just combined — a few lumps are okay.
  2. Heat a lightly oiled griddle over medium-high heat. Drop batter by large spoonfuls onto the griddle, and cook until bubbles form and the edges are dry. Flip, and cook until browned on the other side. Repeat with remaining batter.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Recreation, Weather,

The Recreation Passport is your key to winter fun at state parks

recreation Passport

 

Whether you ski, sled, toboggan, ice fish, snowmobile or snowshoe, Michigan’s state parks offer lots of seasonal fun. Michigan motorists can get in on the fun by buying a Recreation Passport when they renew their plate tabs or get a new plate, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminded residents today.

 

Many state parks offer snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities and events, among other wintertime outdoor activities, and state boat launches are great places for anglers to find new ice-fishing spots. Select state parks offer winter camping opportunities in lodges, yurts, tepees and several types of cabins.

 

“Winter is a great time of year and offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation,” said Johnson, who loves the outdoors and has been known to kayak in January. “I encourage people renewing their plate tab to help support Michigan’s exceptional parks by buying a Recreation Passport. For only $11, the natural wonder of Michigan’s woods and waters can be yours all year long.”

 

The Recreation Passport allows Michigan motorists the option of paying an additional $11 per vehicle, or $5 per motorcycle, when renewing a vehicle registration or registering a new vehicle. The letter “P” is printed on the vehicle tab of people who have bought the Recreation Passport. The passport allows entry into Michigan state parks and recreational areas, forest campgrounds, and boat launch and nonmotorized trail head parking for no additional cost.

 

“Michigan’s state parks, trails, boat launches and other outdoor spaces are true treasures. They make our state a great place to live, work and play,” said Department of Natural Resources Director Keith Creagh. “Checking ‘yes’ to the Recreation Passport allows people to enjoy these treasures and ensures that these important natural areas will be around for generations to come.”

 

A nonresident vehicle Recreation Passport is available at any state park or online at www.michigan.gov/estore.

 

Motorists can renew plates for individually owned or leased cars, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles up to six months before they expire. Most customers can renew online at ExpressSOS.com, which features Print N Go technology, allowing users to buy their tabs online, print off a receipt and carry the receipt as proof of renewal until their tabs arrive in the mail. Tabs may also be renewed through the mail or at a Secretary of State office. License plates that expire on a day when state offices are closed can be renewed the next business day without penalty.

 

In FY 2014, more than 1.9 million Recreation Passports were issued, generating almost $21 million for state parks.

 

Learn more about the state parks Recreation Passport at www.Michigan.gov/recreationpassport.

Grand Rapids All-Star Team Eyeing National Tournament in Dallas

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Sports, , ,
The Grand City All-Stars after winning The Battle of Spartan Nation
The Grand City All-Stars after winning The Battle of Spartan Nation

mike_dewittA weekend filled with the thwack of shoulder pads and the smack of helmets culminated towards this, the end. The time when one team would rise from the gridiron as champions while the other stayed on the floor with the taste of defeat still fresh in their mouths.

 

The Grand City All-Stars rose to the challenge.

 

On this day, 35 young men from Grand Rapids stood united at the Battle of Spartan Nation. 35 young men who worked hard throughout the Rocket Football season and chose to come back for more. 35 young men who wanted to play more football and ended up playing their way into the National Tournament.

 

The Grand City All-Stars came together under the direction of Head Coach Uriel Tyler. It was an idea that’s been kicked around in his head for over 2 years.

 

“The season is so short for these guys with only 6 weeks of games. Practice starts just a couple weeks before games begin,” states Coach Tyler, “With these boys playing a High School season next year, I wanted to give them an opportunity to play a longer season. One that started after Rocket Football ended.”

GCAS Handshake line

 

The Grand City All-Stars play in the 14u bracket of the Football Championship Series, a club league that extends beyond the normal season for youth players. They only planned on playing in one tournament – The Battle of Spartan Nation – but after winning the championship, the Grand City All-Stars qualified for the national tournament on December 27-30 in Dallas, Texas!

 

“This is a special group of kids. They play so hard! We didn’t give up one point the entire tournament,” describes Coach Tyler with emotion swelling in his voice, “That shows how hard these kids play. They don’t give up!”

 

While winning is nice, the team has been a great way to bring kids together within the City League.

 

There is a lot of animosity between players and parents of different city league teams. When those teams play each other during the season, emotions run high. Players can build up ill-will towards players of other teams who will end up being their teammates at the high school level. Those issues have dissolved by playing together with the Grand City All-Stars.

“I coached at a High School where guys came together from different city league teams and still had hatred because of the city youth league,” explained Coach Tyler, “This All-Star team has been a great way for these kids to get to know each other and build friendships.”

 

Coach Tyler isn’t alone, offensive line coach Anthony McNeal also mentioned the positives the team has had off the gridiron, “These boys are spending time together, hanging out and posting pictures on Facebook with each other. They’re from all different backgrounds and coming together playing football and fundraising. It’s a great story!”

GCAS Trophy

 

In order to play in the National Tournament, the team needs to raise $20,000 by December 21. They’ve been selling cookies and popcorn, running pop can drives, and holding bowling and skating parties to raise the money! Right now they’re halfway there.

 

They have a bowling party this Saturday and would love for you to stop by! Bowling is at East Brook Lanes from 7-9pm and the cost is only $12 for unlimited bowling! The proceeds go towards the Grand City All-Stars trip to Dallas.

 

There are many ways to donate to the Grand City All-Stars. You can donate online at www.grandcitysports.com (just click the donate button!) or by going to their Facebook page, just type in “Grand City All-Stars” into the Facebook search bar.

 

If going on-line doesn’t work for you, send donations to P.O Box 68316 Grand Rapids, MI 49516.

 

Going to Dallas would be a dream come true for the players and their coaches. The Grand City All-Stars have yet to give give up a point, let’s see that streak continue down in Texas!

New Technology Keeps WKTV Looking Young

Area Education, Non-Profits, Recreation, WKTV Projects,
Two of WKTV's six editing bays available for community use.
Two of WKTV’s six editing bays available for community use.

mike_dewittAfter 40 years of serving as Wyoming and Kentwood’s community TV station, WKTV is finally over-the-hill. While some may see a 40th birthday as getting old, the technology available here at WKTV says otherwise. It’s what keeps the stations young, fresh, fast and…well… new!

 

The mission at WKTV is to connect the community through media and create media literacy. That’s a fancy way of saying “You have a story to tell that we want to hear, and we have equipment that you can use to tell that story… for free!”

A look inside WKTV's Cinema Suite
A look inside WKTV’s Cinema Suite

 

WKTV boasts six Cannon field cameras that are available for checkout. Each camera has its own tripod and set of microphones – with or without cords – for anyone to use for an event or a project.

 

After you’re done capturing your footage, stay a little while at the station and finish off your work in one of WKTV’s six editing bays fully equipped with Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premier Pro. Each editing bay is its own room with two large monitors to work on and sound units available for voiceovers.

 

Maybe you’re looking to film your own movie and want something with better resolution that what the Cannon cameras can offer. Well, WKTV recently purchased a state-of-the-art BlackMagic Camera that films at double the resolution of HD! Pair that with the station’s digital cinema program – an editing bay with three full monitors and audio tuning – and WKTV has everything a storyteller needs to bring that story to life.

Studio A and its control room.
Studio A and its control room.

 

If checking out cameras isn’t your thing, and you’d rather run your own show in a TV Studio, WKTV has a full studio open to the community. Cameras, teleprompters, lights, and a control room are all available to make your show run smoothly, and look good too.

 

There is no fee to rent out any of the equipment either. The only stipulation is that you must create a project WKTV can air on one of its three channels.

The inside of WKTV's Mobile Unit
The inside of WKTV’s Mobile Unit

 

On top of all that, WKTV is able to offer the community a chance to participate in the production of a live sports broadcast. The station is home to a 35-foot mobile unit that is one of the largest in Michigan. The truck is used to broadcast high school sports in full HD multiple nights a week. Volunteers are used for the entire production from filming and announcing in the stadium to directing and cutting replays from inside the truck during the game.

 

There’s something at WKTV for everyone. If you have a story, we want to hear it. Over 400 volunteers come through the station every year, so the question is, why not you?

 

Stop by WKTV at 5261 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming.

Master Control Diner
The diner that acts as the master control room!

Michigan’s Largest Gymnastics Competition Returns to Grand Rapids

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Recreation, ,

Gymnastics on the GrandMore than 2,000 gymnasts from around the Midwest and thousands of spectators are expected to take part in the fifth annual Gymnastics on the Grand Invitational at the DeVos Place Convention Center this December.

The competition, sanctioned by USA Gymnastics, will kick off early Friday morning on December 5th and run through Sunday night.

“My gymnasts love this meet, not only because of its top-notch facility, but because they can show their hometown what they’ve been working so hard to accomplish,” said Shane Uson, owner and head coach of Grand Rapids Gymnastics. “We are excited once again to be bringing the sport of gymnastics into the spotlight in downtown Grand Rapids.”

This also makes the fifth year the even will partner with the Special Olympics of West Michigan. The Special Olympians will show off their gymnastic skills in an exhibition performance on Sunday, December 7th.

Following the exhibition, the invitational continues for the most advanced gymnasts – those with the highest scores the previous day – in event finals.

“Special Olympics Michigan is thrilled to be a part of this great event for another year,” said marketing and development director Ashley Diersch. “Being a part of the invitational has provided our gymnasts opportunities and experiences that they will never forget! It has been a great partnership between the two organizations and the support and inclusion has been special to all involved.”

Making a special appearance again this year will be 2004 Olympic All-Around Champion, and member of the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame, Carly Patterson! Carly will be at the competition to meet fans and sign autographs throughout the weekend. Media interviews may be requested in advance. Visit www.GymnasticsOnTheGrand.com for the entire schedule.

When: December 5-7

Friday – 8:00am-9:00pm

Saturday – 8:00am-9:00pm

Sunday – 8:00am-9:00pm

Santa Train Returns to Coopersville & Marne Railway for 2014 Season

Local Business, Recreation, ,

Coopersville TrainThe historic, Coopersville & Marne Railway is continuing its 25th year of providing family-friendly fun with the annual running of The Santa Train. Uniformed Conductors and Trainmen will assist you during your ninety-minute journey. The clickity-clack of the iron wheels and the sound of the locomotive horn at each road crossing will add to the special feeling. A blanket of snow in the passing woods and farmer’s fields completes the experience. Christmas carols are sung along the way.

SANTA!
SANTA!

 

The jolly old elf has a special seat in each of the decorated, vintage train cars. Some cars are almost 100 years old. Santa’s Elves will escort the little ones to sit with Santa. All children, even the shy ones, will get a special gift right from Santa’s big red bag. To put a figurative bow on this Christmas “enterTRAINment” package, the Story Telling Princess will read “The Polar Express”, which was written by Grand Rapids native, Chris Van Allsburg.

 

The 250 seat, heated train leaves the station in historic, downtown Coopersville every Saturday and Sunday from Thanksgiving until Christmas. Each passenger car has a restroom. Your light snacks and cameras may be taken aboard. Snow or no, we go!

 

Times for the departures are: Saturday, November 29 at 11 am & 1:30 pm. On all other Saturdays, the departure times are 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm. All Sunday departures are at 1 pm and 3 pm. Saturday dates are Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13, & 20. Sunday dates are Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14 & 21.

Santa Train Elf

 

Ticket prices are: Adults, $15.50, Seniors (60+), $14. 50 and Children (2-12), $13.50, Children under 2 years old are free. Advance tickets: 616-997-7000, Ext. 3 or www.MItrain.net. Some tickets may be available at the train station on the days of departures. But, the train does sell out on occasion, so reservations are recommended. The Conductor begins the boarding procedures at twenty minutes prior to departure times.

Snow Days on the Horizon for Pure Michigan

Our Cities, Recreation, Reviews, Weather, ,
Michigan has a lot to offer in the winter
Michigan has a lot to offer in the winter

As fall colors fade and temperatures drop, Pure Michigan is ushering in winter weather fun with the release of the 2014 Pure Michigan Winter Guide. The michigan.org website and social channels, including Facebook and Twitter, are also switching into winter gear for the season.

 

“Michigan offers residents and visitors alike a perfect opportunity to take a snow day and enjoy all the winter season has to offer,” said Leslie Hornung, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “This travel guide inspires people to embrace the beauty and unique events found in Michigan all winter long, while providing valuable tips and information to help plan a wide variety of getaways throughout the season.”

 

Individuals can request a copy of the 2014 Pure Michigan Winter Travel Guide at michigan.org or by calling toll-free (888) 784-7328. The guide will also be available at the 14 Michigan Welcome Centers across the state as well as in a free, universally accessible digital edition, which will allow users to access the guide from their desktop and laptop computers, smartphones and tablets.

 

Feature stories in this year’s winter guide include Into the Woods, a look at ways to explore Michigan’s backcountry – from snowmobiling to fat-tire biking; Winter Weekend Escapes, highlighting ski resorts around the state; and Cool Catch showcasing Michigan’s ice fishing assets. Those who prefer the indoors will want to check out The Art of Pie, with information on hands-on classes for the perfect pie, and Indoor Explorers to find kid-focused museums that entertain and educate.

 

The publication also includes a guide to Michigan state parks and trails and a winter events calendar. Once again, 100,000 copies of the winter guides have been printed at Quad Graphics in Midland, Michigan.

 

Last month, Pure Michigan teamed up with Lands’ End to offer fans across the nation the chance to win an ultimate winter getaway at Boyne Highlands Resort. There is still time to sign up to win, with the sweepstakes running through November 14, 2014. The prize package features a five day/four night trip for five to Boyne Highlands Resort including skiing, snowshoeing, winter zip-lining, spa services and access to the indoor water park at nearby Boyne Mountain. Additionally the winner will receive a $1,000 gift card from Lands’ End to outfit their Michigan adventure.

 

Michigan is home to 6,500 miles of snowmobile trails, 3,000 miles of cross country skiing trails and is second in the nation for the number of ski areas found across the state. Offering activities as diverse as tubing, ice fishing dog sledding and snowboarding Michigan winter vacations has something for everyone from outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers to families – much of which can be found in the 2014 winter guide.

 

Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy.

 

For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit: michiganbusiness.org. For Michigan travel news, updates and information, visit michigan.org.

West Michigan Tourist Association Announces its Inaugural West Michigan Photo Contest!

Recreation, ,

by Sarah Koupalphone pics 2014 208

With so much beauty found in West Michigan, the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) wants you to show off what you love most about this beautiful side of the state and have your photo featured on the cover of WMTA’s 2015 Carefree Travel Guide!

100_1563

 

The West Michigan Tourist Association’s Carefree Travel Guide is a longstanding travel publication dating back to 1918, with 150,000 copies printed and distributed throughout the Midwest every year.

 

Along with having their photograph published on the cover of the 2015 Carefree Travel Guide, the photographer of the winning photo will receive two nights of lodging in a Lakeview Hotel Guest Room and one Superticket Lift Ticket for two people at Shanty Creek Resorts (valid for the 2014-15 Snowsports Season. Expires March 22, 2015).

 

Located in Bellaire, MI, Shanty Creek Resorts is a beautiful Northern Michigan hotel and resort. They offer the thrills of adventure and the peace of a mountain retreat, with three distinctive villages surrounded by two picturesque mountains, a pristine lake and four lush golf courses. Open year-round, Shanty Creek is a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts.

Contest Details:

Accepted photo formats: High res .jpeg (300 dpi +) , .pdf, .tiff , .dng. Must be CMYK.

 

Photo Size: Keep in mind that photos will be cropped to 8.75 in width x 11.25 height if chosen for the cover.

 

In e-mailing of photo, include:phone pics 2014 033

 

Full name
City that the photograph was taken in
Short description of the photo. 
Deadline: November 23, 2014

How to Enter:

E-mail all photos to Sarah@WMTA.org by November 23rd, 2014.

 

By entering the West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide Cover Photo Contest, entrants agree to the rules and the decisions of the judges and further agree to allow the West Michigan Tourist Association to use their names and photos for marketing purposes without compensation.

 

Entrants must be at least 18 years old. Good Luck!

 

New ‘Inspired Hospitality’ Kitchen and Dining Experience Coming to Eccentric Café in 2015

Local Business, Local Food, Recreation, , ,
The Eccentric Cafe is getting an overhaul
The Eccentric Cafe is getting a reboot

By: Josh Smith

 

Construction has recently begun on a brand new full service kitchen and dining room at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., in downtown Kalamazoo, adding about 130 seats.

 

The gastro pub style space will occupy more than 6,600 square feet of space that most recently served as storage and warehouse space to the east of the original Café.

 

This space was also part of Bell’s original brewery and well before that, a full service gas station.

 

“Our goal is to match and even enhance the high quality beer that is already being served with high quality food and service,” said Jason Reicherts, Director of Retail at Bell’s.

Eccentric Cafe

 

“We will be focusing on both the front and back house experience and with our Inspired Hospitality program, service will be a huge focus,” he said. “Our staff training program will feature an ever evolving and ongoing course of modules covering everything from the latest news in the craft beer industry to food and beer pairings,” Reicherts said.

 

The new menu will be a collaboration between kitchen management and the eccentric mind of Bell’s President and Founder, Larry Bell.

 

While still being developed, the new menu will feature fish and chips, fresh ground burgers (more than beef), fresh and unique salads, smoked meats, steamed mussels and eggs prepared in a variety of ways.

 

“We will try to source our ingredients locally whenever we can, but our focus will also be non-GMO and organic foods. Quality is the top priority, no matter where it comes from,” Reicherts said.

 

The new dining space will feature a gas fireplace along with an intricate mosaic tiled floor. The bar inside the original Café will also be expanded into space where the current 150 sq. ft. kitchen now resides, adding even more seating.

 

An employee area for the approximately 120 employees that work at the Café will also be part of this expansion. Adding additional parking options are also planned.

 

Local architect Nelson Nave, structural engineer Nehil-Sivak and construction company Maxwell & Associates are all working on the project.

 

Because of construction, brewery tours of Bell’s original brewery will not be offered on the weekends for the time being. Brewery tours in Comstock will be expanded however to Sundays at 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. A third Saturday tour option has also been added (2 p.m.) in Comstock.

 

“There may be some minor inconveniences in the interim, but the end result will be more than worth it. We hope our customers will be patient with us as we work to bring them an even better experience here at the Eccentric Café,” Reicherts said.

Community Still Matters at the Pumpkin Path

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Cities, Recreation

douglas_broekIt was a dark and scary night… oh wait, that’s not how this story goes!

 

The sky was a bountiful blue and the sun wasn’t shy about showing its presence as hundreds gathered in Lamar Park for the annual Pumpkin Path.

 

Events like this are enhanced when the weather is cooperating, but it’s the people in attendance creating the feel of community and camaraderie. The flashing of white teeth and inviting smiles at every turn draw you in and create an environment of comfort usually reserved for mom’s home cooking. The City of Wyoming is ours, we share it, and the Pumpkin Path is a way for the Wyoming family to get together.

He's GRRRRRRRRREAT!
He’s GRRRRRRRRREAT!

 

There were 70 organizations and businesses to sponsor the fun filled night, with pumpkin carving, face painting, and tattoos for the kids to enjoy.

 

Parents sat back and soaked it all in, watching over their children taking in the fresh air and getting exercise without even knowing it. The kids would sleep well tonight!

 

Children aren’t the only ones able to let go, enjoy the moment, and enjoy being young. A father noticed Tony the Tiger and exclaimed to his son, “He’s GRRRREAT!” only to see his child start back at him with eyes of astonishment and wonder.

 

In a world wrapped up in electronics and the future, the Pumpkin Path is a way to go backwards. This isn’t an online community of people you’ll never meet. It’s your neighbors and friends, local store owners and new faces. It’s a community, it’s your community.

 

We hope to see you next year!Pumpkin Path

Bummed October is Halfway Over? Downtown Market GR is Here to Help

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local Food, Our Cities, Recreation
Downtown Market Grand Rapids hosts activities throughout the month of October
Downtown Market Grand Rapids hosts activities throughout the month of October

The Downtown Market Grand Rapids is bursting with all sorts of fall activities for kids, adults and families! We’re halfway through October, but there are still lots of fun classes and opportunities available!

 

Below is a list of the activities for the rest of October. Registration for all October classes on the Downtown Market site at http://www.downtownmarketgr.com/classes.

DANCE PARTY (Ages 21+)

Guests 21+: Dia de los Muertos Dance Party
Fri, Oct 31, 8p-Midnight
Cost: Free

 

Join us for a Halloween dance party to remember. The Downtown Market is hosting a free admission “Dia de los Muertos Dance Party” with music brought to you by DJ Adrian Butler. The party features a cash bar and costume contest among other spooky happenings. Come dance your mask off at the Downtown Market!

 

More Info: http://downtownmarketgr.com/classes-programs/dia-de-los-muertos-dance-party

FAMILY CLASSES (All ages, includes one adult and one child.)

Family: Spooky Sweets and Halloween Treats*
Sat, Oct 25, 10a-12p
Cost: $45

 

Celebrate Halloween with spooky cupcakes, scary cake pops, and creepy crispy treats, made by the whole family! Join Chef Jacob’s ghostly kitchen experience chock full of tasty spiders, eyeballs, witches, and black cats. Families will have fun turning everyday treats into creepy confections that are great for the lunch box or just to enjoy at home!

SOCIAL CULINARY CLASSES (Ages 21+)

Couples: Celebrate the Michigan Harvest
Fri, Oct 17, 6p-8:30p
Cost: $125

 

Ask any Michigan chef, and they’ll tell you that autumn’s bountiful harvest creates the best time of year in Michigan! With crisp apples and creamy squash, sweet corn and scrumptious pork, you’ll taste just how good October in Michigan can be. Join this hands-on culinary experience with Chef Jacob and create the perfect porchetta with apples, complete with amazing fall sides such as sweet corn fritters, delectable butternut squash soup, and savory apple tarte tatin.

KIDS & TEENS

Kids: Crazy for Cake Pops!
Tues, Oct 21, 5:30p-7:30p
Cost: $35

 

One of the hottest baking trends around…cake pops! They’re fun, their tasty, and iconic for Halloween! As they learn to mix, shape, mold, and decorate, kids will have fun turning these treats into jack o’lanterns, mummies, monsters, ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. All to take home and enjoy!

TECHNIQUE AND NUTRITION (Ages 16+)

Autumn Inspired Thai
Tues, Oct 14, 6-8:30p
Cost: $45

 

Join Chef Yang Hang in an exploration of the world of Thai cuisine using fresh local herbs and seasonal ingredients. This class is all about the discovery and creation of new autumn-inspired dishes based on traditional and authentic Thai recipes.

 

CAN you Gift It?
Wed, Oct 22, 6p-8:30p
Cost: $45

 

Preserve specialty foods just in time for holiday hostess or teacher gifts! Our resident canning guru Jolon Hull will help you through this fun, hands-on canning experience including: bourbon brown sugar mustard, pickled red onion, and vanilla extract. Beautiful mason jars with decorative embellishments make thoughtful foodie gifts!

 

Introduction to Aromatherapy and Essential Oils
Sat, Oct 25, 2p-4p
Cost: $35

 

This class is perfect for anyone who would like to know more about aromatherapy. You will learn what essential oils are and the benefits of including aromatherapy in your life. Once you have learned about the essential oils, you will have the opportunity to create a personal blend to take home and enjoy.

 

**This is not a Young Living or dōTerra product sales presentation**

 

Class is offered by Linda Bayer, RA.  Linda has been studying and practicing aromatherapy for over 15 years and is the owner of Bayer Essence Aromatherapy.

 

Meat with Montello’s: BRATober
Wed, Oct 29, 6-8:30p
Cost: $45

 

October is Brat Month at Montello Meat Market! Join owners Tony, Tina, and Hayley Larson for an evening of fun and meat education. Learn what goes into making Montello’s world-famous brats and sausages. Chef Jacob will show you how to prepare simple peppers and onions, we well as teach the history behind sauerkraut and how to make it! We will be sampling all of the food, then we will head down to Montello’s and stuff brats for you to take home!

GREENHOUSE CLASSES (Ages 16+)

Root Cellars – Preserving Root Vegetables for the Winter
Sat, Oct 18, 11a-12:30p
Cost: $15

 

Join us as we preserve the flavors of the fall! Our focus will be on experimentation with DIY root cellars for the winter storage of carrots, beets, onions, and other root veggies, as well as bringing herbs inside. All easy to do at home!

 

Terrarium Making Workshop
Thurs, Oct 23,
5:30p-6:30p Cost: $25
6:30p-7:30p Cost $25

 

Join Downtown Market Greenhouse staff for a session of tricks and tips on miniscaping your own little green world. We’ll provide the ingredients to build your own, including a selection of succulents, and care instructions for your nifty new terrarium.

MOMMY & ME (Ages 0-5, includes one adult and one child.)

Music & Movement
Fri, Oct 17, 10a-11a
Cost: $5

 

Listen to songs, dance, and make your own music as we play together.

 

Sensory Fun
Fri, Oct 24, 10a-11a
Cost: $5

 

Explore sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell through fun sensory stories and activities.

 

Little Pumpkins
Fri, Oct 31, 10a-11a
Cost: $5

 

Join us for some Halloween fun as we sing and dance with our friends in costumes! Decorate a spooky treat.

LUNCH AND LEARN

Preserving Herbs for Winter
Wed, Oct 15, 12p-1p
Cost: $10

 

Visit the greenhouse and taste herbs that will put you in a fall mood! We will discuss herb drying and preserving methods, as well as how to bring herbs indoors to sustain the winter.

YOGA (Ages 16+)

October 1–30
Every Monday & Wednesday • 6p-7:15p Every Saturday • 9a-10:15a
Every Wednesday & Friday • 7a-8:15a

 

Pre-Registration Rate • $10 Drop in Rate • $12 Purchase a 10-pack punch card for $90 and drop into any 10 regularly scheduled yoga classes. Don’t have a mat? Rent one from us for $1.

 

About the Grand Rapids Downtown Market

 

The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is the region’s new choice for fresh, delicious foods and amazing public market merchants. The Market is a LEED Gold certified, $30 million, self-sustaining, mixed-use facility that brings together production, distribution, marketing and education about local foods and growing. It incorporates entrepreneur and experimentation space for both emerging and experienced food artisans and merchants including a 24-vendor Market Hall, large outdoor farmer’s market and two full-service restaurants coming soon, one of which will be a micro-brewery. More at www.downtownmarketgr.com.

Keweenaw Excursions Offers Fall History Cruises

Recreation

by Jason Funkey

If you’re looking for an autumn adventure, join David Miles of the Charlevoix Historical Society for a narrated historical cruise aboard the Keweenaw Star on Lake Charlevoix on Saturday, October 11  from 3 to 5 p.m. for a  two hour trip around the area’s waterways. The cost is $25 per person with a portion from every ticket being donated to the Charlevoix Historical Society.

The Fall Color Cruise travels through Round Lake and then into Lake Charlevoix toward Ferry Beach. From there, the trip continues into the South Arm of the lake all the way past the Sequanota Resort, Ironton and the Ironton Ferry, and down to Holy Island. The boat then turns around and heads up to Oyster Bay and Pine Point before returning to Round Lake.

The tour offers lively narration and commentary along the way, providing interesting tidbits of local history about this harbor town – which welcomed its first permanent settlers in 1854.

According to Miles, the channels that connected the inland lakes to Lake Michigan were cut in 1869 and by 1897, Charlevoix was seeing more maritime tonnage pass through its waters than any other port on the east side of Lake Michigan, outside of Chicago. By the early 20th century, the Charlevoix area was also the premier resort destination in this region.

“At one time, the town had an importance far outside its size regarding its economic importance to both this area and the whole state,” Miles says. “It has a history, that, as I term it, simply doesn’t quit. Its history is so vast that a few minutes cannot even begin to encompass it.”

Established in 1879, the Charlevoix Historical Society was a dynamic part of the community for many years, but sadly faded after World War II. It was resurrected in 1972 and in 1978 the society was given the Harsha House—an 1891 Queen Anne residence downtown that now houses its offices and museum. Today, the CHS is once again an organization interactive with segments of the community.

Miles has been an active member of the Charlevoix Historical Society since 1997 and in 2002 he was named co-director of the Harsha House museum. He’s produced seven books and two full-length DVDs on various aspects of Charlevoix’s history, has given many illustrated lectures and presentations both local and in neighboring towns, and has helped to mount large exhibits about the area’s history.

Operating since 2000, Keweenaw Excursions is owned and operated by brothers Jason and Kraig Funkey. The company originated in Houghton, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and moved to Charlevoix in 2009 – this year celebrating its 5th season. With a capacity of 130 passengers, the Keweenaw Star offers a range of cruises from mid-May through mid-October, including sunset tours, sightseeing trips and multi-day lighthouse and ship-watching cruises. The boat is also available for private charters, for events such as corporate outings, weddings, rehearsal dinners and reunions.

For more information contact Keweenaw Excursions at (231)-237-9365 or by email at KeweenawExcursions@gmail.com.

Encouraging Community Reading with a Little Free Library

Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation

This article was originally published on schoolnewsnetwork.org. Be sure to check them out for more great articles and insight into our schools!

Wyoming High School students Kacey Billings, Malik Claybrook and Kristina Frantz sit and read near the Little Free Library
Wyoming High School students Kacey Billings, Malik Claybrook and Kristina Frantz sit and read near the Little Free Library Photos from School News Network.

Wyoming Public Schools, MI — Tracey Davis-Replogle has big plans for miniature free libraries: scatter them throughout Wyoming to motivate everyone to grab a book and read for enjoyment.

“I want to put Wyoming on the national map. I want (the ABC news program) “20/20″ to show up on the doorstep and do a piece on this community that reads,” she said.

The 20-year Wyoming High School teacher and her husband, Kevin Replogle, built a Little Free Library, a wooden house-shaped box atop a treated 4×4, and stationed it outside the school’s entrance to the Frontiers Program, for which Davis-Replogle serves as a language arts instructor and mentor.

Inside the box are several books, available to students and community members for the taking. If they choose to, they can leave a book in return. “You open up the door, peruse what’s there; if you’d like to leave one, that’s fine. If not, grab and go,” she said.

She and her husband plan to build several more for Wyoming school buildings, and inspire others in the community to take part in the initiative. “I want them everywhere, schools, bus stops, businesses, churches, individual communities,” she said.

Next to the high school’s little library is a bench where people can sit and read.

Part of a District-wide Initiative

Davis-Replogle, who lives in Grand Haven, said she’s seen the little libraries in her community. The idea comes from the nonprofit organization, Little Free Library, started in Wisconsin, to build as many little libraries as possible. According to the website, littlefreelibrary.org, 15,000 were in use nationwide by Jan. 2014.

“The big picture for us is to make Wyoming a community of readers, not just students, but the entire community. We know that if our kids are watching our parents read, they are more likely to read. We know that reading can help you in so many different ways.

The little libraries are part of a bigger reading initiative spanning all Wyoming schools. Students are keeping reading logs, working to reach a weekly goal of minutes spent reading for fun. A district-wide committee is being formed to focus on school and community reading projects.

Reading for fun is hard to fit into the packed school day, said Davis-Replogle, who years ago used to give her students time on Fridays to “free read.” Parents are also busy, but by putting reading on the radar, she wants to inspire them to pick up a book.

Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Tom Reeder embraced the idea, saying he sees the need to provide and promote opportunities to capture the love of reading.

“Reading, comprehension and discussion of the texts are all skills we need to practice at earlier ages and continue to cultivate as we become older. Other communities have similar programs and so we decided it is our time, our need,” he said.

Teacher Tracey Davis-Replogle is building Little Free Libraries for Wyoming Public Schools
Teacher Tracey Davis-Replogle is building Little Free Libraries for Wyoming Public Schools

Since they have all the angles and dimensions figured out, Davis-Replogle and her husband plan to build the book houses for the other school buildings. “I’m willing to put in the time to make the pieces because I feel so strongly about the project. I can’t wait to drive around the district and see them.” she said.

Books Galore

Senior Malik Claybrook said he’s already motivated to read more, because he gets points toward his final grade for keeping a reading log.

“I started reading a book but I stopped reading it when I heard the movie was coming out. Now I will continue to read it.”

Juniors Kacey Billings and Kristina Frantz walked by Davis-Replogle on the way to class, their arms stacked with books by Shakespeare, Charles Dickens and modern-day authors. The young book lovers said they will tally the minutes on their reading logs.

“It’s a great idea. When you read more, it increases your vocabulary,” Kacey said.

Outside, Wyoming resident Al Dolan walked by with his dog, noticing the little library.

“My wife, Sue, reads a lot and exchanges books with friends. I will tell her about it,” he said.

Kentwood’s Kelloggwoods Park Takes a Hit

Our Cities, Recreation
Kelloggwoods Park sustained heavy tree damage.
Kelloggwoods Park sustained heavy tree damage.

All softball games are cancelled at least for this week at Kentwood’s Kelloggwoods Park according to Charlie Ziesemer, Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation director. The park was seriously damaged during the tornado Sunday night and many large trees that once shaded the children’s playground are destroyed.

100_1200
A picnic table is spared in the storm.

 

Ziesemer says that they have a lot of clean up to do in the park, but clearing up the neighborhoods takes priority. He said he hopes to have the park open for ball games by some time next week.

A popular play area for children is buried by the mature trees that fell.
A popular play area for children is buried by the mature trees that fell.
Clearing the trees in Kelloggwoods Park will take time once the neighborhoods are cleared.
Clearing the trees in Kelloggwoods Park will take time once the neighborhoods are cleared.
Trees clearly show the tornado's path.
Trees clearly show the tornado’s path.
Twisted within the fallen tree is a swing set.
Twisted within the fallen tree is a swing set.

 

Busy Camping Season Expected for State

Recreation

Thousands of families are packing up and planning to hit the road around West Michigan this summer for what is predicted to be one of the busiest in the last few decades, according to the Automobile Association of America. Many of those families will be traveling by RV to visit one of the state’s more than 1,000 private, licensed campgrounds.

Grand Rapids-based dealership, American RV, is preparing for a busy year with an increase in sales and rentals this season. “After such an intense winter, we are seeing more families eager to start their camping season, says Chad Neff, General Manager of American RV. “We are seeing an increase in customers shopping for an RV with double-wide bunks to accommodate the whole family,” says Neff.

“We believe this summer will be huge for camping and RVing in the state of Michigan,” says Bill Sheffer, Director of the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds. “The difficult, long winter and late start to spring has created pent up demand for travel and leisure. Both the private and state owned campgrounds are gearing up for a great season,” says Sheffer.

The RV industry is already experiencing an increase in sales this year. The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association reports a surge in first quarter shipments reaching 89,971 units through March, an increase of 13.3% over the 79,422 units shipped during the same time frame in 2013.

At the same time, campgrounds like Hidden Ridge RV Resort in Hopkins was completely sold out for the Memorial weekend since early April. “We’ve definitely noticed an increase in bookings not only for Memorial weekend but also for our seasonal guests who are planning longer stays this year,” says Janie Linscott, Manager of Hidden Ridge RV Resort.

While cabins and seasonal units continue to be a popular choice among campers, many West Michigan families choose to rent an RV during a summer vacation. “As one of the only dealerships in the area that offers RV rentals we are definitely preparing for a busy few months ahead,” says Neff of American RV.

SuperStar Senior Softball Sluggers at Kentwood Parks and Recreation!

Recreation, Sports

Softball pic 1 softball pic 2   “Hit that ball out of here,” cried Tom from the dugout.   “Get a move on,” shouted Bruce to his softball team. Familiar dialogue in the ball park, Right?   What’s not so familiar is the ages of the players in the game. Kentwood Parks and Recreation has numerous sports leagues. The one I had the opportunity to witness was a coed senior citizen softball league featuring people aged 50-85. Last year’s 92-year-old Bob Gleason took the season off. 80-year-old first baseman and manager Bruce Beimers of the Athletics team has played for a very long, long, time. “I love getting the exercise, and I play the best I can at my age,” he explained. 69-year-old pitcher/manager Tom Buchanan of Red Sox fame loves the game and what it holds. “I like having bad knees, sore elbows and losing 18-7 today,” he said laughingly. Four teams play every Thursday in the summer and they are looking for more people to play both Summer and Fall Softball. And what is happening after the game?   softball pic 3 “We go home and take a nap!” Tom Buchanan explained. For more information,  and to sign up to play, please call: 616-656-5270 and ask for Lorraine. softball pic 4