Category Archives: Travel

Ford International Airport breaks ground on $8.5 million snow removal equipment building

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority broke ground Wednesday on its snow removal equipment building, or SRE. The $8.5 million investment will expand the existing Airfield Maintenance facility by over 60,000 square feet to support critical operations and accommodate forecasted passenger growth at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

“We are thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to further enhance operational efficiency while ensuring the safety of our staff, passengers and partners,” said Airport Authority Board Chair Dan Koorndyk. “This transformative expansion will accommodate the Airport’s increasing passenger demand while optimizing space for equipment and operations.”

The SRE building will be managed by the Airport Authority’s Airfield Maintenance team, which is responsible for maintaining more than 45 vehicles and equipment, including specialized snow removal machines designed for the aviation industry. The snowplows are twice the size of those used by county road commissions, measuring up to 26 feet wide and 78 feet long, enabling swift and efficient clearing of runways even in challenging weather conditions.



A rendering of the Snow Removal Equipment building. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



“We continuously strive for excellence in every aspect of our operations, and the groundbreaking of our snow removal equipment building showcases our dedication to providing world-class service to our community,” said Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “The Airport Authority Airfield Maintenance team has been nationally recognized for their expertise in snow removal operations, receiving multiple awards over the years for their efficient and innovative processes.”

During snow events, snow removal operations include seven trucks or more in a conga line formation, swiftly clearing runways when there is three inches of snow or more. The team can plow two miles of runway in under 30 minutes, ensuring minimal disruption to airport operations.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been a key partner in helping the Airport Authority secure funding to support the project through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The FAA’s Detroit Airport District Office Manager John L. Mayfield Jr. provided remarks at today’s event on the impact of this project.

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has given us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build safer and more sustainable airports,” Mayfield said. “Ford International Airport has chosen to modernize their infrastructure by expanding their existing 57,000 square foot snow removal equipment facility by an additional 60,716 square feet.

“The expansion of the building will allow all snow removal equipment to be consolidated in the same area and protect it from the weather to extend its useful life. Snow removal equipment is critical to remove the presence of contaminants such as snow, ice or slush on airfield pavements which causes hazardous conditions that may contribute to airplane incidents and accidents,” Mayfield continued. “Therefore, protecting the airport’s investment in snow removal equipment from the elements allows for a more efficient response to weather events.”

Congresswoman Hillary Scholten has been instrumental in supporting infrastructure improvement projects at the Airport, further contributing to its growth for the benefit of the West Michigan community.

“West Michigan is on the move and our GRR airport is helping people come and go to keep pace with a modern economy,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “As one of the fastest growing small hub airports in the country, GRR has delivered with excellence no matter the weather.

“This brand new and expanded snow removal facility is going to help us update equipment that keeps snow off the ground and planes moving on time. Our snow removal team is the best in the business, and they deserve state of the art facilities to help them do their job, keep passengers and crew safe and everyone on time!”

The project is expected to be completed by this winter season and will support 130 trade jobs. FCC Construction, Inc and MTC will serve as the main contractors, with DLZ and C&S Companies supporting design and construction administration.

Documentary offering intimate look at veterans’ return to Vietnam to air on WKTV in honor of 49 year anniversary

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(Courtesy photo)



By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


(Courtesy, Wreaths Across America)

In November 2023, ten Vietnam veterans embarked on a journey they never thought possible. Returning to Vietnam, the veterans explored locations and memories that have held deep significance for each of them for the last 49 years.

Mission Veteran Expedition, a collaborative venture between CDLLife, FASTPORT, and nonprofits Waypoint Vets and Wreaths Across America, made this journey possible. Together, they released a documentary of the trip, “Mission Veteran Expedition: Honoring Vietnam Veterans in the Transportation Industry.”

The documentary, captured and produced by U.S. Army veteran Nicholas Mott, owner of Seven Five Media, is available at no cost on Wreaths Across America’s YouTube channel.

Mission Veteran Expedition will also air on WKTV Government Channel Comcast 26 and AT&T U-verse Wyoming & Kentwood Government Channel 99 on Tuesday, April 30 at 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 1 at 8:15 p.m. and Saturday, May 4 at 12 p.m.

Click here to view a short preview of the documentary.

A profound journey evokes healing

“The documentary offers an intimate and compelling look at the journey of these veterans,” said videographer Nicholas Mott. “Capturing the essence of their experiences and the profound impact of the Mission Veteran Expedition was truly an honor. I hope other Vietnam veterans will watch it and find it healing.”

Quang Tri, Vietnam (Courtesy, Lance Cpl. Francisco Diaz U.S. Navy)

The trip offered ten veterans, each of whom has made a living in the transportation industry, an extraordinary opportunity to revisit Vietnam and reflect on their service there. The documentary explores this impactful journey, which combines travel, camaraderie and history.

Waypoint Vets, a non-profit organization dedicated to uniting and empowering veterans through camaraderie and adventure, led the expedition, ensuring each participant experienced a meaningful and lasting journey.

The itinerary included a variety of experiences, including:

  • Grounds Tour of the Former Saigon Embassy
  • Walking Street Food Tour through Ho Chi Minh City
  • Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Luxury Tour
  • War Remnants Museum
  • Halong Bay Cruise
  • Defense POW / MIA Accounting Agency Tour
  • A ‘Welcome Home’ ceremony hosted at Sirius XM studios in Hollywood, with interviews on Radio Nemo

Redefining memories

Vietnam War Memorial Dedication Ceremony in Rota, Spain (Courtesy, Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Barton U.S. Navy)

“The Mission Veteran Expedition successfully commemorated these veterans’ valiant contributions while allowing them to experience the beauty of Vietnam’s landscapes and the richness of its culture,” said Sarah Lee, Army combat veteran and founder of Waypoint Vets. “For many veterans, the memories associated with Vietnam are often intertwined with the challenges of war.

“This expedition redefined these associations and replaced them with new, healing memories. By engaging with Vietnam on a deep, personal level, the trip forged lasting connections and helped veterans find solace in the beauty of a nation at peace.”

As commemorative partners of The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, FASTPORT and Wreaths Across America have had the honor of “Welcoming Home” more than 7,500 Vietnam veterans.

“I feel the trip’s culmination was an important piece of closure for the participant’s journey,” said Brad Bentley, President of FASTPORT, who traveled to Vietnam with the group.

“These men returned to the United States to a hero’s welcome, and for millions who never received this show of gratitude for answering the call of duty, it was truly an honor to say, ‘Welcome Home.’”

Ford International Airport breaks ground on $135 Million Terminal Enhancement Project

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A rendering of the Terminal Enhancement Project. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority broke ground Wednesday on its $135 million Terminal Enhancement Project (TEP) representing a significant investment in the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

TEP will expand the west end of the terminal, aiming to increase capacity and incorporate sustainable elements to further optimize operations, minimize the Airport’s environmental footprint and enhance the guest experience. The expansion includes:

  • A Consolidated Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) on the lower level of the terminal, streamlining the checked luggage process from the airline ticketing counter through screening and onto the aircraft.
  • An Individual Carrier System (ICS) for baggage handling screening. This will make the Ford International Airport the first small-hub airport in the U.S. to install an ICS.
  • New ticket counter spaces and the consolidation of all airline ticketing counters to the west end of the terminal.
  • Expanded baggage claim area with larger carousels to facilitate a more seamless and modernized baggage claim process for arriving passengers.

“The Ford International Airport is experiencing tremendous growth, recently achieving a record-breaking year in 2023 for number of passengers served annually,” said Airport Authority Board Chair Dan Koorndyk. “The Federal Aviation Administration has recognized our Airport as one of the fastest growing in the country, and this investment in our facility will support this continued growth, serving our thriving community for years to come.”

TEP is part of the ELEVATE capital expansion program, which includes more than $600 million in critical infrastructure investments to accommodate passenger growth and air service demands.

Additional projects under the ELEVATE program include:

  • A federal inspection station (FIS) to support nonstop international commercial passenger flights.
  • The relocation of the federally owned air traffic control tower to make way for diverse terminal-area developments such as additional tenant hangars and more parking.
  • Michigan’s first consolidated rental car facility (CONRAC) to provide a dedicated facility for all rental car operations. The project broke ground in 2023 and is expected to be completed in 2025.
  • The expansion and widening of Concourse A which was completed in Spring 2024. This project added eight new gates, additional concession and retail options, modern amenities and more.
  • Additional parking capacity to accommodate increased guest traffic.



Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



“The Airport has been a cornerstone of West Michigan for more than 60 years,” said Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “We have strategically invested in our facility and campus to ensure we support our region’s economic prosperity and vitality.

“The expansion of our infrastructure is critical to fostering the growth of our vibrant region, ensuring our community has access to essential services through a robust transportation hub that increases opportunities for global connectivity.”



A rendering of the Terminal Enhancement Project. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



Congresswoman Hillary Scholten has been pivotal in supporting the airport’s growth, securing federal funds to support the construction of TEP.

“Amid this exciting growth, we have to ensure that GRR has the tools to keep up,” said Congresswoman Scholten, who gave remarks via video at today’s groundbreaking. “Adequate airport infrastructure makes all the difference in preventing flight delays, ensuring passenger safety and enhancing the traveler experience. Investments in GRR are investments in West Michigan’s future.”

As a key funding partner for TEP, TSA’s Michigan Federal Security Director Reggie Stephens provided remarks on the enhancements this project will make to the Airport’s safety and security screening operations from curb front to take-off.

“TSA is proud to enjoy a strong partnership with the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said Stephens. “The addition of the inline checked baggage screening system ensures that for years to come, GRR passengers will continue to enjoy a comfortable, convenient and safe airport traveling experience.”

Kent County Board of Commissioners Chair Stan Stek, who spoke at today’s event, reaffirmed the importance of supporting the Airport’s expansion efforts to ensure the growth of the West Michigan community for generations to come.

“Kent County is not only one of the fastest-growing areas in the State, but also one of the few counties in Michigan experiencing growth in the critical 20- to 30-year-old demographic,” stated Commissioner Stek. “Growth in this demographic tells us that we can anticipate new entrepreneurial initiatives, business expansions and an increased demand for modernized and innovative public services.

“At Kent County our mission is to assure that everyone in this county has access to the best, most efficient and innovative public services in the State, and nothing exemplifies this better than what is being accomplished right here at the Ford International Airport.”


Kent County Commissioners. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



The project is expected to be completed in 2027.  The Christman Company is serving as the construction manager for TEP, while Corgan is the architect of record. VTC is the design team project manager with Fishbeck providing project engineering and Beumer Group serving as the contractor for the baggage handling system.

Construction will take place near the terminal entrance. Guests are encouraged to follow signage for temporary detours around the terminal curb front.

No local taxpayer dollars will be used to finance any of the projects included in the ELEVATE program, which will be paid for with a combination of federal and state grants, municipal bonds issued by the Airport and user fees. For more information about TEP and other ongoing ELEVATE developments, please visit FlyFord.org/ELEVATE.

Ford International Airport anticipating record 195,000 passengers for spring break

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



West Michiganders are getting ready to shake off the winter chill as they head out for their spring break getaways, and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority is ready to serve a record-breaking number of spring break travelers.


The airport is expected to be 16% above its 2023 spring break travel levels, which was a record-breaking year. They are estimating 195,000 passengers from March 27 through April 8. The busiest departure day for passengers is expected to be Thursday, March 28.

“We are thrilled to welcome passengers as they travel to their spring break destinations,” said Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “With our modern facilities, enhanced amenities, and new concession and retail concepts, we hope to provide guests with an unforgettable experience during their journey through the Airport.”

Passenger Appreciation Day March 29

The Airport’s annual Passenger Appreciation Day will be on Friday, March 29. If you would like to capture live music performances and special costume characters, they will be in the terminal from 5 to 10 a.m. and 3 to 7 p.m.



Top Spring Break Destinations: Orlando, Dallas, Punta Gorda, Tampa and Fort Meyers.

Ford International Airport ranked among world’s best for guest experience

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been recognized as one of the top-performing airports globally for guest experience by Airports Council International World’s 2023 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards.

Ford International Airport received multiple awards, including:

  • Best Airport of 2 to 5 Million Passengers in North America
  • Airport with the Most Dedicated Staff in North America
  • Easiest Airport Journey in North America
  • Most Enjoyable Airport in North America
  • Cleanest Airport in North America

These awards, based on live research conducted through passenger surveys on the day of travel, highlight the Airport’s commitment to delivering an exceptional experience to all guests.

“We are honored to accept these prestigious awards, which recognize our commitment to delivering world-class service to every guest,” said President and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Tory Richardson. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our board, employees and partners who consistently go above and beyond to ensure travelers experience a comfortable and seamless journey through our facility.”

The ASQ Awards, which include categories such as Best Airports by Size and Region, recognize innovation and excellence across airports. Ford International Airport joins a select group of nine airports globally and one of two in North America to earn awards in all five departure categories.

“The ASQ Awards celebrate more than outstanding customer experience; it recognizes the innovation and dedication of your entire airport team,” said Director General for Airports Council International World Luis Felipe de Oliveira. “Congratulations to Gerald R. Ford International Airport for your hard work that is redefining the airport experience.”

The Airports Council International Airport Service Quality initiative is the airport industry’s only global benchmarking program measuring passenger satisfaction across 30 performance indicators. With over 400 airports participating worldwide, more than half of the world’s travelers pass through an Airport Service Quality airport.

Veterans screen video of return to Vietnam, discuss war experiences and healing

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(Courtesy, Tom Sibley)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Veterans gathered for a screening of Our Trip on Feb. 1 at the Grand Rapids Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH).

Our Trip follows 12 Vietnam veterans back to Vietnam in 1995. Using WKTV Community Media facilities, Vietnam veteran Tom Sibley produced the 40-minute video with footage and photographs taken by the returning veterans and Grand Rapids Press staff that accompanied them. Recorded interviews with participants after the trip were also included.

The Our Trip experience

(Courtesy, Tom Sibley)

After a brief history of the United States involvement in Vietnam, the video combines the veterans’ wartime experiences via the various stages of the trip. Sibley said the trip was special and inspiring, but all veterans were “amazed by the warm welcome and friendliness of the people we met.”

The trip included a search for the helicopter crash site that killed pilot Floyd Olsen, a friend of one of the trip veterans. The crash site was located near the village of Hong Ha. Friends and relatives of Olsen later built a medical clinic at the village.

A visit to an orphanage found the veterans interacting with the children and then painting the orphanage. A year later, one of the veterans and his wife completed an adoption of two girls he met while at the orphanage.

Meaning, healing, and peace

Approximately 90 were in attendance for the video showing. James Smither, GVSU Veterans History Project Director, provided historical background and invited those in attendance to share their stories.

(Courtesy, Tom Sibley)

“Several of the veterans discussed how their faith had helped them get through their war experiences and make peace with them,” Smither told WKTV.

Showing the video at the MVH allowed residents to participate, Sibley said. Smither added that it brought an audience of people who had not seen it before.

“Many of them were Vietnam veterans, and two of them were in the video and had never seen it,” said Smither. “The video also says a lot about the Vietnam experience and what it means to be a veteran, so it was an appropriate venue. We drew a good crowd, and they clearly appreciated the video.”

After the video, all were invited for a social time with cake and coffee prepared by Connie Ceton and MVH staff.

MVH Volunteer Coordinator Gretchen Muir and Activity Director Becky Smit organized the event.

Ford International Airport sets new passenger record in 2023; nearly 3.8 million passengers

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A community celebration was held Jan. 31 to commemorate the milestone. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By Ford International Airport


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport announced that it surpassed previous passenger traffic records in 2023.

In 2023, the Airport served a total of 3,794,915 passengers — a 6% increase from its record-breaking figures in 2019. Notably, October 2023 marked the single busiest month in Airport history with 349,987 passengers.

“We are truly grateful to the West Michigan community for their support in helping us achieve this remarkable milestone,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “The Ford International Airport has experienced tremendous growth, thanks to the dedication of our team and partners in continuously providing world-class service to our guests.”

A community celebration was held January 31 to commemorate the milestone

To celebrate this achievement, the Airport hosted various festivities throughout the terminal on Jan. 31, including live music, free swag, a visit from the West Michigan Therapy Dogs and more.



Part of the celebration included a visit from the West Michigan Therapy Dogs. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Ranked as one of the fastest-growing airports in the U.S. by the Federal Aviation Administration, the Ford International Airport is currently undergoing a $600 million capital expansion program known as ELEVATE. This initiative, which represents the largest of its kind for an airport of its size in the country, includes six projects aimed at supporting passenger growth and the overall economic health of the region.

As part of the ELEVATE program, the Airport plans to complete Phase 2 of the Concourse A expansion project this year, which focused on renovating the pre-existing concourse to match the new addition that opened in 2023. Additionally, the Airport will break ground on its Terminal Enhancement Project, extending baggage claim and ticketing spaces while adding a checked baggage inspection system.

For more information about Ford International Airport’s plans for continued growth, visit FlyFord.org/ELEVATE.

Ford International Airport unveils cutting-edge technologies in FLITE program

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By Ford International Airport

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines® and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, announced the fifth cohort of companies set to receive more than $200,000 in total grant funding through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship, or FLITE.

“We’re delighted to welcome these dynamic companies that are at the forefront of pioneering innovative technologies shaping the future of air travel,” said Ford International Airport Authority’s President and CEO Tory Richardson. “These companies will help to elevate the passenger experience and enhance airport operations, ensuring the continuous evolution of the aviation industry.”

As one of the nation’s first airport-based programs, FLITE focuses on propelling the transformation of aviation by providing grant funding and pilot testing opportunities to companies focused on bringing emerging air travel technologies and solutions to market. The companies participating in this round include:

  • Cybernet Systems Corporation: Advances operational efficiencies through military and commercial products, prototypes and services.
  • Prospect Airport Services: Provides air transportation services and mobility assistance to partners and passengers.
  • Snowbotix: Develops electric robots designed for various outdoor tasks like snow removal, sidewalk cleaning, vegetation control and more.

As Michigan’s lead advocate for business development, job awareness, and community development with a focus on growing the local economy, the MEDC has played a pivotal role in fostering innovation. Through the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME), the MEDC has provided grant funding to support the companies participating in FLITE, to further the program’s mission and drive advancements in Michigan’s vibrant mobility and technology sectors.

“We are thrilled to announce an increased commitment of $500,000 to the FLITE program, underscoring our dedication to fostering innovation in air travel technology,” said Michigan’s Chief Mobility Officer Justine Johnson. “This program has already shown tremendous success in bringing cutting-edge solutions to market, and with this latest round of grant recipients, we are poised to accelerate these efforts even further. Michigan remains at the forefront of mobility and technology, and the ongoing achievements of the FLITE program are a testament to our state’s pioneering spirit in these sectors.”

The companies will pilot test their technologies at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport from February to April of this year.

Cybernet Systems Corporation will assess its collision avoidance technology during manual and autonomous operation of its ground handling equipment when navigating around aircraft and the Airport’s restricted zones.

Cybernet Systems Corporations. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)


Prospect Airport Services will evaluate the physical specifications, performance and integration of passenger service vehicles from three leading autonomous technology companies, including Alba Robot, Blueberry Technology Inc. and Cyberworks Robotics.


Prospect Airport Services. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)


“Prospect Airport Services is excited to partner with FLITE as we explore the most recent and exciting developments in airport mobility assistance in many years,” said Prospect Airport Services’ Director Tim Fisher. “This project will allow the airport, air carriers and Prospect to evaluate the feasibility of long-term commercial deployment in our drive to provide an improved experience to those who utilize these services.”

Snowbotix will test their new multi-utility robots, SMUR1, evaluating its speed and effectiveness for snow removal operations. They’ll also assess its de-icing application and ability to transition to summer tasks like sweeping. Snowbotix will focus on analyzing the robots’ effect on airport traffic, communication with maintenance, coordination with human crews and long-term cost savings.



Snowbotix. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



To date, FLITE has provided support to more than 20 companies, awarding more than $750,000 in total grant funds across five rounds. The six core focus areas for new technology advancements through FLITE include:

  • Automation & Analytics: Improving operational efficiency and optimization of workforce and other resources through automation and analysis of data.
  • Electrification & Sustainability: Switching fossil fuel vehicles and infrastructure to electrics and other decarbonization projects.
  • Safety & Security: Strengthening passenger and worker safety and security throughout the airport campus.
  • Door-to-Door & Terminal Guest Experience: Improving the efficiency of getting to and from the airport and improving the pre-boarding experience.
  • Advancing Aviation: Exploring the enabling infrastructure and implications of emerging commercial aviation use cases.

Applications for round six of FLITE are being accepted now through June 30, 2024 at michiganbusiness.org/mobility-funding.

Dreams were born, and some fulfilled, at DeVos Place during the Camping, Trailer & RV Show last weekend

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  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • A patron checks out a hidden storage compartment at Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Over 200,000 square feet of RVs and a dozen West Michigan RV dealers representing over 100+ lines descended upon DeVos Place in Grand Rapids last weekend, Jan. 18-21.

Camping and travel mean different things to different people – but they all involve dreams (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Grand Rapids Camper, Travel & RV Show – Michigan’s largest RV and family vacation show – offered visitors hundreds of RV options and accessories, as well as campgrounds and travel destinations. Children’s activities, a pancake breakfast and free seminars rounded out the event.

Detroit residents Chris and Kate Ahlgren were among thousands who came to look at available RV options.

Dreaming big

When asked why they chose to attend the GR Show, Kate said they were looking to “keep up on current trends so when it is time to buy, we know what’s out there.”

  • Kate (left) and Chris Ahlgren from Detroit check out storage and hidden compartments in the Alliance Paradigm fifth wheel RV at Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
  • Grand Rapids Camper, Trailer & RV Show 2024 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Current owners of a 2012 Rockwood Signature Ultralight 35-foot travel trailer, the Ahlgrens have decided it is time for an upgrade.

Frequent campers during the spring through fall months, the Ahlgrens and their four children have been dedicated campers for 16 years. Beginning with a tent and then borrowing a pop-up camper (“That is not for us!” said both Ahlgrens simultaneously), the couple moved on to a small travel trailer, finally purchasing the Rockwood in 2012.

Patrons could find everything from bare essentials to decorative accents (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Though the Rockwood is holding up well, the Ahlgrens are looking to move into a fifth wheel RV.

Why a fifth wheel?

“I was looking for the flexibility to sleep lots of different people in lots of different combinations,” said Kate, adding that they can have upwards of 10 people or more camping with them at one time.

Chris liked the ease and safety of a fifth wheel. “Fifth wheels are easier and safer to tow because of the hitch point,” said Chris. “The pivot point moves versus your bumper. so they’re easier to back in and tow.

“And they’re safer because it’s a more solid connection versus just a two-inch ball.”

The small things matter

Ben Swathwood talks with the Ahlgrens about the Paradigm fifth wheel and Alliance mission (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

While at the Show, the Ahlgrens found an RV that “checked all the boxes” in a 41-foot Alliance Paradigm 380MP fifth wheel.

What helped check all of those boxes, the Ahlgrens said, were small things that Alliance took into consideration that most other RV companies do not.

And a lot of those “small things” revolved around Alliance’s choice to focus on communication and relationships with their customers versus simply following the latest trend.

“It all goes back to what’s best for our retail customers,” said Ben Swathwood, Alliance Regional Sales Manager. “Before we built a single unit, we crowdsourced from full-time RVers.

“We’re not just throwing stuff at the wall to see what sticks and making changes later. We’re really taking our cues from them.”

A customer talks with Never Enough Auto Accessories vendor (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

And what was important to customers were high-quality parts and pieces, and a need for more efficiency. This increased the number of Alliance menu options available to retailers.

“That’s been revolutionary for us, to have that relationship,” said Swathwood. “And then our independence, being privately owned, allows us to say: This is what we’re going to do.”

Paradigm shows some of these customer-driven adjustments in several areas. Four flush slide-outs, large pass-through storage areas, dual power gas and electric water heaters, shut-off valves at every plumbing fixture, Azdel Onboard composite sidewalls, PVC roof material with a life-time warranty, fully functional windows, hardwood cabinetry, hardwired switches, and no carpet or floor vents were a few items on that list.

“We don’t use any Bluetooth technology,” Swathwood added. “We don’t have any tablets, so you don’t have to worry about connectivity issues.

“What happens if you can’t connect to that tablet? What happens if that tablet breaks?”

“Just listen…”

“Find joy in the journey” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The pillars of Alliance, Swathwood said, are: “Do the right thing, customer-obsessed, and then a relentless improvement on our side from the ground up. All of those things go back to that point of, let’s just listen.”

Chris and Kate Ahlgren appreciate that attention to detail and listening ear. For the Ahlgren family, camping is more than a cheap way to have a vacation.

“It’s time spent with our family with a whole lot less distractions,” said Kate, mentioning work, house chores and electronics as examples.

“Originally, when we started camping, the rule was no electronics,” said Kate. “We didn’t allow our kids to have them while camping. Our kids were outside and playing in the woods and building forts.”

And even though the Ahlgren’s trailer has a television, they do not use it.

“I couldn’t even tell you if my TV antenna goes up on the trailer,” Chris said with a shrug.

The Ahlgrens were pleased to find new options for campgrounds and details on towing equipment, though a larger number of accessory vendors in 2025 would be welcomed.

For more information on 2024 events/expos at DeVos Place, click here.

Ford International Airport promotes nonstop routes with the GRReat Billboard Hunt

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By Ford International Airport

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, in collaboration with its marketing and advertising partner, Extra Credit Projects, has taken over billboards all around town — and wants you to find them all.

In a strategic effort to promote its 30+ nonstop destinations, the Airport Authority has launched The GRReat Billboard Hunt, a four-week event to encourage the community to embark on a quest to “find” all the destinations they can travel to nonstop from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

To join the experience, which runs from January 22 through February 18, download Goosechase from the app store. Create an account and use code “GRR2024” to access the event, where you can start completing missions. Each mission encourages participants to snap photos of billboards, from Atlanta to Washington D.C., to earn points and win prizes, including a $300 flight voucher, destination collection apparel, limited-edition Airport socks and more.

“We are utilizing traditional media in more nontraditional ways,” said Haley Abbas, marketing and communications manager for the Ford International Airport Authority. “Through this strategy, we’ve combined out-of-home advertising with a fun and creative interactive experience, connecting with our community while promoting our nonstop flights.”

To learn more about The GRReat Billboard Hunt, including contest rules, instructions, prizes and more, visit grr.org/jointhehunt.

Ford Airport opens Post-Security Animal Relief Area; $100K investment to further enhance passenger experience

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport unveiled its first post-security pet relief area to provide a more enjoyable and stress-free journey for passengers traveling with animals.

Located at the beginning of Concourse A, this new amenity features:

  1. Wheelchair accessible space, compliant with the U.S. Department of Transportation Air Carrier Access Act rule.
  2. Floor-level drinking waterspout for pets.
  3. Innovative K9 Grass System to provide optimal drainage.
  4. Handwashing station and waste removal bin.
  5. Automatic flushing system to ensure continuous cleanliness throughout the day.

“We understand that travel companions come in all shapes and sizes, and our commitment to providing a seamless and comfortable journey extends to our furry friends,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “This new space further elevates the guest experience, ensuring all passengers, including their animal companions, feel welcomed and cared for during their journey through the Airport.”

The animal relief area is part of Elevate, a $500 million program to accommodate passenger growth. This initiative represents the largest capital expansion for a small hub airport in the country, featuring modern amenities, eight new gates on Concourse A, additional concession and retail concepts, sustainable design elements and more.

Thanks to support from BISSELL, a pre-security pet relief area is located outside the west end of the terminal building at the beginning of the drop-off lane.

For more information about the amenities offered at the Ford International Airport, visit FlyFord.org/amenities.

Hip Grandma with a Camera gives insight on living life after 50 and a “100 Things” bucket list

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Veronica Bareman is a Hip Grandma with a Camera – and she is living life to the fullest (Courtesy, Veronica Bareman)


By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org


Bareman fell in love with Holland right away (Courtesy, Veronica Bareman)

West Michigan’s “Hip Grandma with a Camera,” Veronica Bareman, urges communities to explore their own backyards with her book, 100 Things to do in Holland, Michigan Before You Die.

Released in September 2023, 100 Things is an ode to the town Bareman fell in love with 20 years ago when she moved to Holland, Michigan.

A native of the Wyoming-Kentwood area, Bareman had only been to Holland once during her childhood – while on a school field trip to see the De Klomp Wooden Shoe & Delftware Factory.

“That was my sole experience with Holland,” says Bareman. Many years later, Bareman met her husband, got married and moved to Holland. “In the short time after moving to Holland, I just fell in love.”

The artsy, close-knit community calls to Bareman. Being a college town, Holland also offers a variety of events throughout the year.

“We have a lot of really cool events and tons of parks,” says Bareman. “It’s just a beautiful town, and right on the lakeshore.”

How Hip Grandma with a Camera was born

Bareman loves to travel and make friends at every stop (Courtesy, Veronica Bareman)

Bareman’s love of photography founded Veronicajune Photography. Over the years, she became known as “the girl with the camera.”

“Whenever I would show up I would have the camera, so people would laugh about that,” says Bareman.

Five years ago, Bareman began blogging about photography – and welcomed her first grandchild into the world.

“People started laughing and saying, ‘Oh, you’re the grandma with a camera,’” says Bareman. “Then I had a friend who took one look at me and said, ‘You can’t be the grandma with the camera. You’ve got pink hair, you’ve got to be hipper than that. You’re a Hip Grandma with a Camera.’”

Between the pink hair and Bareman’s energy level, Hip Grandma with a Camera stuck.

A life shift: becoming a travel blogger

The photography blog led to traveling as Bareman’s five children grew up and moved out of the house.

“Life has a way of just kind of morphing here and there,” Bareman says. “All of a sudden, I find myself in this travel space where I’m traveling.”

And wherever Bareman travels, her camera goes as well.

People often miss what is right in front of them in their own communities, says Bareman (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Invited into communities across the country, Bareman visits destinations and then posts on social media about what the communities have to offer.

At every travel destination, Bareman chats with hotel employees and waitstaff at local establishments. They always ask why she is in their town, and Bareman replies that she travels to see what that town has to offer.

The travel blogger says the responses are overwhelmingly similar: We don’t have anything to see or do around here.

“No matter where I go, this is what people say,” says Bareman. “We’re all so busy thinking about where we should go next, and what plane we should get on.

“If you just look around, most communities have a ton of things to see and do.”

Bareman believes she was given a unique perspective on her own community because she moved to Holland as an adult. Instead of taking the town’s offerings for granted, she embraced each new opportunity to explore what was right in front of her.

“We just kind of take it for granted that ‘Someday we’ll go see that, but we’re planning something else right now,’” says Bareman. “It’s definitely a phenomenon. It happens everywhere, not just here in West Michigan. It happens all over the country.”

An ironic revelation

Then, almost two years ago, Bareman realized the irony attached to her travel blog.

“I’m writing about everything and I come home to the best town…why haven’t I written extensively about Holland?” Bareman asked herself.

Bareman realized she had never written about the place she loves most (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Bareman found the response from her previous travel destinations was the same response she found in Holland.

“People don’t know what’s within twenty minutes of their own back door,” Bareman says.

That revelation led the travel blogger to contact publishing company Reedy Press.

“They have a series of 100 Things books,” says Bareman. “I pitched the Holland, Michigan idea to them, and they were on board.”

100 Things to do in Holland, Michigan Before You Die has been well-received by people, Bareman says. Many local readers have told Bareman they had no idea certain attractions existed in their own backyard.

What came before and what’s next

(Courtesy Photo)

Bareman’s 100 Things is actually her second publication.

Twelve authors throughout the Midwest came together and compiled an informative book on Midwest state parks.

Titled Midwest State Park Adventures, the book covers all state parks in the Midwest states, with Bareman penning the Michigan chapter.

“Michigan has 108 state parks,” says Bareman. “I did a deep dive into those to figure out who has camping, trails and kayaking, then specifically wrote from firsthand experience.”

Bareman is looking at participating in another author compilation that will cover Midwest museums. She is also in conversation with Reedy Press about writing a bigger, more Michigan-centric book.

Never stop exploring

“Life goes on past 50, and it can be the most exciting time of your life,” says Bareman. “I’m in my 50s now, and life has taken off in my 50s in a bigger way than through all of the years prior.”

Bareman is loving her Hip Grandma Life and continues to carry her camera everywhere she goes. Her days consist of traveling, writing, photography, and speaking engagements.

Bareman says we should never stop learning and exploring (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

And, most importantly, being a grandma to her two grandchildren while looking forward to welcoming more into the Hip Grandma fold.

Bareman encourages those around her to never stop exploring, no matter their age.

“Don’t forget to explore your own backyard,” says Bareman. “We have the gift of a lifetime of experience and look through a whole different lens than we would have when we were 25 and trying to figure life out.

“Now we’ve kind of got the gift of having it figured out. We never stopped learning, and we never have it completely figured out, but certainly those years of experience are a huge gift when you’re at this point in life.”

Inspiration to get you started

Adventures of the pink-haired, high-energy Hip Grandma with a Camera can be found on her website, Hip Grandma Life.

You can also find Veronica Bareman on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Pinterest.

Ford Airport hosts local schools in Holiday Music Festival from Dec. 4-8; featuring 14 West Michigan school choirs

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



As holiday travel continues at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, local school choirs are set to fill the Airport with festive cheer for passengers and guests.

The 27th Annual Holiday Music Festival will take place the week of Dec. 4 through 8 in the Airport Grand Hall, located just before the TSA checkpoint. Daily performances run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

14 West Michigan choirs will sing 20-minute song sets throughout the day:

• Byron Center Public School

• City High School

• Coit Creative Arts Academy

• East Kentwood High School

• Grand Rapids Public Museum Middle School

• Lee High School

• Legacy Christian

• North Park Montessori 7th and 8th Grade

• Ottawa Hills High School

• South Christian High School

• Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy

• West Side Christian School

• Wyoming High School

• Zeeland Christian School



Airport Holiday Music Festival schedule. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



“We extend a warm welcome to the talented school choirs from our community as they turn the Airport into a festive stage,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “Thank you to the students and instructors for sharing their time and talents with Airport employees and passengers this season.”

All festival performances are free and open to the public. The schedule of performances can be found at FlyFord.org.

Ford Airport hosting Operation Handshake today to welcome active military and veterans to West Michigan

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(Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wkv.org



Operation Handshake, where active military members and veterans will receive a patriotic welcome to West Michigan, takes place today (Nov. 22) at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

As military members and veterans arrive in West Michigan, military affiliated groups will line the concourse exits of the Ford International Airport to greet and thank them for their service. The daylong event will include members of the Patriot Guard Riders and Blue Star Mothers greeting the honored travelers, waving American flags, offering words of thanks and singing patriotic songs.

“The Ford International Airport is proud to host this annual event that honors those who have served our nation,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Chief Operating Officer Alex Peric. “We invite our community members to join us in welcoming our military members to West Michigan.”

Operation Handshake is free and open to the public throughout the day in the Airport’s Grand Hall by the security screening checkpoint.

“Each year it is an honor to greet veterans and active military and see the expressions on their faces,” said Phil Pakiela, captain of the Patriot Guard Riders of West Michigan. “We invite the community to join us for Operation Handshake to thank the brave individuals who fight for our freedom.”

Loved ones of military members and veterans traveling through Ford International Airport on Nov. 22 are encouraged to participate in Operation Handshake and provide flight information to Patriot Guard Riders, including arrival time. Information may be provided to Phil Pakiela via email at papapakiela@gmail.com or by phone at 616-916-3064.

Ford Airport anticipates record-breaking Thanksgiving week; 154,000 passengers expected through Nov. 27

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



As Thanksgiving approaches, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is expecting a busy week and is reminding guests to pack their patience.



The Airport is currently tracking 4% above its pre-pandemic passenger levels and is expected to exceed 2019 numbers, which was a record-breaking year. Total estimated passengers from November 17 through November 29 is 154,938.



“During this Thanksgiving travel season, our commitment to ensuring a seamless and joyous travel experience for all guests is unwavering,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Chief Operating Officer Alex Peric. “Our team and partners are ready to welcome the increased holiday traffic, working diligently to make this special time of year stress-free for everyone.”


The peak for departures will start Friday, November 17, and carry through the weekend. The busiest return day for passengers is expected to be Monday, November 27.

Some top Thanksgiving destinations

New York, Orlando, Clearwater/Tampa and Punta Gorda.


(Courtesy, pxhere.com)


Ford International Airport joins the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Travel, West Michigan,
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is proud to announce its participation in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, a global initiative aimed at providing support and assistance to travelers with hidden disabilities.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower enables individuals to discreetly indicate that they have a non-visible disability and may need additional assistance, understanding or more time. By wearing a Sunflower lanyard, pin, wristband or retractable Sunflower ID card, a traveler can communicate their needs without disclosing their specific condition, making their journey through the airport more comfortable.

“We are thrilled to join more than 230 airports worldwide in providing a more inclusive and accessible travel experience through the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network,” said President and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Tory Richardson. “The Ford International Airport is committed to ensuring every traveler feels valued and supported during their journey. With the implementation of this program, we hope to further support guests with hidden and visible disabilities to enjoy greater independence while navigating through the Airport.”

Since Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was established in the UK in 2016, it has been adopted globally by businesses and charities to support their colleagues and customers. The Sunflower is recognized across a broad range of sectors – ranging from retail, financial services, transportation, travel and tourism, education, government, as well as healthcare, emergency service and entertainment. 

“We are delighted to welcome Gerald R. Ford International Airport to the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program,” said Sunflower Regional Director – USA Lynn Smith. “GRR have committed time and passion to implement the training to ensure that Sunflower wearers are recognized by their staff to receive the additional support, understanding and kindness they need.”

As part of this initiative, airport staff and partners have been trained to recognize the Sunflower symbol and provide assistance and accommodations accordingly. Passengers with hidden disabilities can request a free Sunflower item at the Airport’s Visitor Information Desk and security screening checkpoint.

“We encourage all passengers to embrace the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and utilize the Sunflower symbol when necessary,” Richardson said.

For more information on accessibility services, visit the Ford International Airport’s webpage at FlyFord.org/amenities.

Ford Airport selects mural artists for newly expanded Concourse A

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“Twilight on the Rapids” by Devin Dumond. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority has selected West Michigan-based artists AK Bueno, Maddison Chaffer, Jimmy Cobb, Devin Dumond and Jill Eggers to paint murals in the newly expanded Concourse A.

Thanks to support from the Frey Foundation, the Ford International Airport Authority continues its commitment to showcasing local artists through its public art program. The Concourse A extension, part of a $110 million project to accommodate passenger growth, will feature three art media, including custom terrazzo flooring, an aerial art installation and murals.

“We are thrilled to continue investing in the local art community through our public art program,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “The selected mural artists will create pieces that illustrate the landscape of West Michigan, from the lakeshore to the urban core, showcasing the natural beauty of our region and inspiring travelers from around the world.”


AK Bueno. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




AK Bueno, a visual artist and educator, focuses on creating abstracted architectural spaces and deconstructed landscapes in her pieces. Bueno received her bachelor’s degree in illustration from Grand Valley State University and her master’s degree in teaching from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. 


“Welcome to West Michigan” by AK Bueno. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Her mural, “Welcome to West Michigan,” focuses on abstractedly depicting key architectural elements from the region.

“It is such a privilege to share my work with those traveling through Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” Bueno said. “It is my hope the imagery in my mural invites travelers to experience calm, joy, excitement, curiosity, familiarity and a true sense of hospitality as they go forth.”



Maddison Chaffer. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)”(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Maddison Chaffer, a public artist and conservationist, apprenticed for two years under national and international muralists. Chaffer now installs murals professionally for public art festivals, small businesses, corporations and local governments.


“Manitou Passage” by Maddison Chaffer. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)


The mural, “Manitou Passage,” is intended to share in the appreciation for the landscape’s history and inspire travelers to help preserve Michigan’s native ecosystems.

“I often refer to Michigan as the jewel of the Midwest,” Chaffer said. “This mural’s context within the Ford International Airport grants me the joy and privilege of sharing this adoration with not only Michiganders, but with travelers from around the world.”




Jimmy Cobb. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



“Hauling in the Sail” by Jimmy Cobb. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Jimmy Cobb is a Great Lakes artist whose work can be found along the shores of Lake Michigan, such as Muskegon, Grand Rapids, Norton Shores and Milwaukee. His piece, “Hauling in the Sail,” was inspired by Zoltan Sepeshy, a Hungarian painter who resided and taught in Michigan, and is intended to bring the vision and energy of the great coastlines to life.




Devin Dumond is a multi-disciplinary artist and entrepreneur who specializes in branding for small businesses and illustrations. Dumond teaches graphic design and illustration at Kendall College of Art and Design.



Devin Dumond. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)


The mural, “Twilight on the Rapids,” is inspired by their hometown of Grand Rapids and the variety of architecture found within the city. The piece features the structure of the city juxtaposed by the organic shapes of the Grand River and lush green landscape.


“Twilight on the Rapids” by Devin Dumond. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)






Jill Eggers. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



Jill Eggers is an associate professor at Grand Valley State University, where she has led the painting program since 2000. She has a bachelor’s degree in painting and art education from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in painting and printmaking from Yale University. Eggers also studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.



“Returning to Earth” by Jill Eggers. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




Eggers’ mural, “Returning to Earth,” is based on the dense and lyrical woods of Michigan and focuses on connecting travelers to the beauty and peace of the forest.

“I was thrilled to be selected to be a part of the group of artists creating a really welcoming and beautiful space, reflective of the beauty of West Michigan,” Eggers said. “Whenever I am in an airport, I consider the possibilities for creating a calmer and more grounded atmosphere – as airports can be very distracting, stressful places. It’s rewarding to create something that may give viewers some pleasure while they travel.”

The Ford International Airport’s Concourse A expansion transforms the travel experience for passengers, featuring modern amenities, eight new gates, additional concession and retail concepts, sustainable design elements and more. With the diversity of commissioned art pieces, the airport can further enhance the guest experience, creating a memorable journey for all travelers passing through the space.

To learn more about the artists selected for the Concourse A project, visit flyford.org/elevate/community.


Ford International Airport welcomes new Southwest Airlines service to Nashville

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


Starting June 2024, Gerald R. Ford International Airport will increase its connectivity to the Southeast with additional service to Nashville International Airport (BNA) on Southwest Airlines.

“We are delighted to have Southwest Airlines expand their network with the addition of a seventh destination,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “This service will further connect our business and leisure passengers to a major destination. We are grateful to our partners at Southwest for helping deliver convenient and exceptional travel experiences to our community.”

This new seasonal service – which is currently served by one other carrier at Ford International Airport – is scheduled to operate on the carrier’s 143-seat Boeing 737-700, offering nonstop flights on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are now on sale at Southwest.com.

“We continue to optimize our schedule and respond to changing travel trends,” said Brook Sorem, vice president network planning at Southwest Airlines. “We look forward to providing this service between two strong leisure markets.”

Southwest is the United States’ largest domestic airline and is preparing to open its Nashville flight crew base in 2024, creating the 12th crew base in the Southwest system.

Southwest has served the Ford International Airport since 2013. View its current nonstop destinations and more at FlyFord.org.

Ford Airport voted the best small airport in the country by USA TODAY

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport earned the top spot in the USA TODAY Reader’s Choice Awards for best small airport.

The 20 finalists for the category were selected by a panel of experts and then voted on by the public. The panel consisted of editors from USA TODAY and 10Best.com, expert contributors and industry sources. The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards series highlight top-notch attractions and businesses, providing readers with trusted recommendations.

“We already knew our guests are the best in the country so it’s a real honor to know the feeling is mutual,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President & CEO Tory Richardson said. “One of the unique characteristics of our airport is the incredible support we receive from our community, which we don’t take for granted. This award underscores how important our commitment to the guest experience is.”

The top ten winners in the best small airport category were:

  1. Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR)
  2. Huntsville International Airport (HSV)
  3. Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)
  4. Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
  5. Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)
  6. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)
  7. Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)
  8. Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (BTV)
  9. Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
  10. Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC)

Voting was open from Sept. 4 until Oct. 2 with the public being invited to cast one vote per person, per day. USA TODAY noted while the finalists serve smaller numbers of passengers each year than large hub airports, they excel with commercial flight offerings, easy access and amenities.

In 2022, 3.4-plus million guests chose the Ford International Airport for their travel needs, higher than the small airport industry average of 992,000. The Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, which has more than 100 team members who are responsible for the infrastructure and maintenance of airport facilities. Additionally, more than 1,300 team members from six airlines, food and beverage providers, maintenance facilities and several other partners come together to offer air service and amenities to guests. 

“We thank everyone who took the time to share their vote for the Ford International Airport,” Richardson continued. “We also thank our entire team and partners who are critical in creating an engaging and comfortable guest experience.

“As we celebrate six decades of serving the West Michigan community, we look forward to continuing to provide world class travel in an accessible and convenient way for another 60 years – and beyond.” 



Sun Country Airlines to begin service in Summer 2024 at the Ford International Airport

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Travel,
(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport announced Sun Country Airlines will begin service in June 2024.

Sun Country Airlines is a low-cost air carrier focused on serving leisure passengers. Based in Minnesota, the airline offers flights to destinations in North America, Central America and the Caribbean. With this new service announcement, seven airlines will now serve the Ford International Airport.

“We’re excited to bring even more options to our guests by welcoming Sun Country to West Michigan,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson said. “Sun Country is well poised to serve our leisure passengers with access to the airline’s network of destinations.

“We look forward to our new partnership with the airline as we continue to grow and diversify options for our guests.” 

The details came in Sun Country’s summer service announcement today. The airline will initially focus on its route from Grand Rapids to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, which will run June 13 through Sept. 1, 2024. Flights will be offered biweekly on Sunday and Thursday in the afternoons and evenings. From Minneapolis, guests will be able to connect to 98 destinations.

Sun Country has previously chartered several aircraft through the Ford International Airport, but this is its first scheduled route.

“Minnesotans have a close connection to Michigan,” said Grant Whitney, senior vice president and chief revenue officer of Sun Country Airlines. “We are excited to expand our service in the state with seasonal service to Grand Rapids, and to bring additional opportunities to your residents to fly Sun Country.”

Booking will be available spring 2024 at Sun Country’s website: https://www.suncountry.com/.

International students embrace American culture at Wyoming High School, gain education money can’t buy

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Wyoming High School provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for five foreign exchange students (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Five foreign exchange students representing four countries embarked on a journey that led them to Wyoming High School.

Alexandra (Italy), Edward (Germany), Daisy (Thailand), Linh and Hieu (Vietnam) have traveled thousands of miles to experience the American way of life.

Though not always easy due to cultural differences, all five students have expressed enjoyment of their time in the United States.

International Exchange Coordinator and Educatius Local Coordinator Sunflower Swan is determined to help the foreign students get the most out of their time in America.

“My job is to help them to achieve that experience of positive outcome,” said Swan.

Swan (left) helps the international students express their experiences, emotions and goals while in the United States (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Swan, raised in Korea, came to America as an exchange student when she was in college. Her experience inspired a passion for helping others find that same joy.

“I want this experience to be fun and engaging. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Swan.

Swan creates that fun environment through various interactive events and activities.

Upon the exchange students’ arrival, Swan hosted a gathering at a local park for the students and their host families. Cookie-eating contests, marshmallow-stuffing contests, and 3-legged races were among the planned activities.

But Swan said the games accomplished far more than just having fun.

“The [3-legged race] is a metaphor that they have to [coexist] in harmony with each other,” said Swan. “Because, to have a successful experience, they can’t do their own thing. You have to tie together.”

Exuberance for life and the American way

Swan’s passion for life was evident during a conversation with Swan and the foreign exchange students.

That conversation involved far more than a question and answer session to see how the students were faring at WHS. Props, signs, face mustaches, picture taking, dancing, and laughter were also part of the mix.

“I don’t do boring stuff,” Swan said as she tossed this reporter a flowered lei with instructions to put it on before she took a picture. “That’s fun, isn’t it? A celebration of life, I call it.”

Alexandra loves trying new things while in America (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Alexandra is also embracing life and several new experiences.

“I am making new friends every day, and I am not afraid to talk to [others],” said Alexandra. “I’m shy, but I’m trying to be more confident.”

Alexandra said she joined the WHS golf team because she had never tried the sport before. “I’m not good,” Alexandra said with a shrug. “But I don’t care.”

WHS English teacher and Alexandra’s host mother, Joslyn O’Dell, said Alexandra fit right into her family.

“As soon as we got the name Alexandra, Drake (O’Dell’s son) looked her up on social media and became friends with her,” said O’Dell. “So before she even got to the U.S. they were interacting. Weeks before she arrived, we had already started that relationship.”

Watching Alexandra seize every new experience has been fun for the O’Dell family.

“Just seeing her try the American school and see how that fits for her has been fun,” said O’Dell. “She’s had a lot of new experiences and she’s enjoyed a lot of them; she wants to experience everything.”

Daisy is also embracing new things, with music festivals, camping and learning a different genre of music among the Thailand native’s recent experiences.

Valuable lessons learned

Some experiences, however, are internal and more personal.

Daisy said that she is naturally shy but is learning to open up to people.

“Here, she has learned that exerting her opinion does not mean she isn’t humble,” said Swan. “[It is] gaining maturity and speaking when you need to speak.”

Hieu (left) and Edward discuss a question asked during the meeting (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Hieu (Vietnam) enjoys playing basketball, is making friends, and is also learning to be more confident.

“I used to be shy to talk to people, but now I am more open,” said Hieu.

Linh said that through the kindness she has seen at WHS, she “learned to be respectful to everyone.”

Edward says being in America has instigated more meaningful conversations with his parents back in Germany.

“I talked to my parents [before], but here I do more,” said Edward.

Making mistakes and overcoming obstacles

Though most of the exchange students’ experiences have been positive, some difficulties have emerged.

Differences in culture such as body language, difficulty level and concept of school classes, and homework are some of the most common obstacles for foreign students.

“Some students don’t do homework because in their culture, homework is optional, it is not part of their grade,” said Swan, adding that some of the students have had to realize homework is required in the U.S.

Edward enjoys the class activities WHS includes in the curriculum (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Daisy said that while she loves the freedom America offers, she struggles with students’ disrespect toward teachers.

Because of Swan’s own experience as an exchange student in college, she understands the hurdles these students face.

“I know what it’s like, adjusting,” said Swan. “Sometimes they are afraid to speak because they don’t want to mispronounce a word.”

But Swan said making mistakes is part of the learning process.

“You have to make mistakes to learn the language and assimilate,” said Swan. “Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. Mispronunciation is good. You don’t have to have perfect English to engage in conversation; that’s not reasonable.”

A few of their favorite things…

Increased freedom, friendly teachers and students, learning activities for students, and free food and refills on drinks were some favorite things mentioned by the group. ArtPrize was also a highlight this fall, with all five students exploring exhibits together.

30 countries, 20 years, and public diplomacy

Swan has spent 20 years and traveled to 30 countries while helping students experience other cultures.

“We are training future world leaders,” said Swan, adding that 200 out of 300 world leaders were involved in some kind of student exchange program.

Swan (left) said Linh (right) had very limited English when arriving in America and is a perfect example of how hard work and tenacity help students grow (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“This is called public diplomacy,” Swan said. “It’s one of the greatest, powerful public diplomacy the U.S. can have, having exchange students here, learning American culture, American way of life.”

But for Swan, it is about far more than diplomacy.

“I traveled the world, but I discovered people are all the same,” said Swan. “I am more compassionate as I meet people because they all need to be loved and appreciated.

“We are all the same. We have so much focus on skin or education or status but forget they are human.”

And where Swan goes, fun and new friends follow.

“For me, I live fully,” said Swan. “I want to enjoy it. Life is too short, and I want to celebrate life.

“It’s not easy to do what I do. It’s a lot of problem-solving, but I’m making a difference.”

Education money can’t buy

Swan says learning about new cultures reminds us that we are all human (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Swan encourages families to consider hosting an exchange student, saying it benefits families as well as students.

“In my experience, host family children become much more diverse and stronger,” said Swan. “You are providing education money cannot buy.”

To learn more about local exchange student hosting opportunities, visit Educatius.

Ford International Airport announces fourth round of FLITE

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, together with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Seamless Ventures, Southwest Airlines® and the West Michigan Aviation Academy, has announced the fourth cohort of companies that will receive more than $100,000 in grant funding through the Ford Launchpad for Innovative Technologies and Entrepreneurship, or FLITE.

One of the first airport-based initiatives in the nation, FLITE provides funding to encourage the design, development and pilot testing of new products and services in a live airport environment. The five companies that will receive grant funding through this next round include:

  • Dataspeed Inc.: Autonomous research and development for vehicle integrations
  • DD DANNAR: A mobile power station with a multi-functional, zero-emissions, configurable platform for maintenance and emergency response needs
  • Numina: Computer vision system that applies a privacy-by-design framework
  • Signapse: AI technology that automatically translates written text to sign language via video
  • Volair Technologies Inc.: Flight perception technologies to support aviation operations and expand aerial mobility options

“FLITE continues to be a leading platform for new technologies in the aviation industry, and we’re excited to introduce the fourth cohort of companies testing their innovative solutions,” said Tory Richardson, president and CEO of the Ford International Airport Authority. “This program is a collaborative effort with our partners to further enhance the guest experience and pursue advancements in the aviation industry.”

As Michigan’s lead advocate for business development, job awareness, and community development with a focus on growing the local economy, the MEDC provided grant funding to FLITE through the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, or OFME.


Dataspeed Inc. will engage in comprehensive research and exploration to develop an intuitive and highly efficient user interface specifically tailored for an automated airport service vehicle.




Dataspeed Inc. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




DD DANNAR is testing a mobile power station that can be configured for various maintenance tasks and serve as a mobile energy storage asset, capable of distributing power in a variety of ways.



DD DANNAR. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




Numina uses computer vision systems to detect movement in streets, curbs, places and open public space — without collecting personally identifiable information. Numina will deploy sensors at key curb locations around the Gerald R. Ford International Airport to generate automated and continuous multimodal traffic insights to increase cost savings and improve the guest experience.

Signapse utilizes AI technology that automatically translates written text into a sign language video. This technology will be used at the Ford International Airport to deliver real-time departure and disruption messages in American Sign Language for deaf and hard of hearing passengers.

“Having the support of a program like FLITE is invaluable to a start-up like ours,” said Leia Clancy, head of business development at Signapse. “The program enables us to develop a flagship case study for our AI technology, giving us an opportunity to grow our business in Michigan and beyond.”

Volair Technologies Inc. deploys on-aircraft sensor pods to collect in-flight imagery, positional and traffic data through routine flight school operation. This project will provide flight data for advancing aviation safety-enhancing perception systems.

To date, the Ford International Airport Authority has provided support to 19 companies through FLITE, awarding over $500,000 in grant funds across four rounds. The six core focus areas for new technology advancements through FLITE include:

  • Automation & Analytics: Improving operational efficiency and optimization of workforce and other resources through automation and analysis of data
  • Electrification & Sustainability: Switching fossil fuel vehicles and infrastructure to electrics and other decarbonization projects
  • Safety & Security: Strengthening passenger and worker safety and security throughout the airport campus
  • Door-to-Door & Terminal Guest Experience: Improving the efficiency of getting to and from the airport and improving the pre-boarding experience
  • Advancing Aviation: Exploring the enabling infrastructure and implications of emerging commercial aviation use cases

Applications for round five of FLITE are being accepted now through October 31, 2023 at michiganbusiness.org/mobility-funding.

Ford International Airport Finalist for Best Small Airport by USA TODAY

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The community is invited to vote online through Oct. 2. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport. )



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been named a reader’s choice finalist for the best small airport by USA TODAY.

The public is invited to cast one vote per person, per day at 10best.com/awards/. The voting period will be open until Monday, Oct. 2 at 11:59 a.m. The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards highlight top-notch attractions and businesses, providing readers with trusted recommendations.

Nominees for the 10Best are chosen by a panel of relevant experts, including editors from USA TODAY and 10Best.com, expert contributors and industry sources. 10Best.com provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel content of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.  

“Over the last several years, we have invested significantly to improve our guest experience,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson said. “From our front-of-house facelift to the expansion of Concourse A, we want to ensure guests flying through the Airport begin their travels in comfort and return home in style.

“Our success is largely based on the tremendous community support we receive, which makes this nomination incredibly meaningful to us. We hope everyone will visit USA TODAY and cast their vote to make the Gerald R. Ford International Airport the best small airport in the country!”

The Airport is undergoing a number of significant investments into its infrastructure, part of Elevate, a $500 million program to accommodate passenger growth and the largest capital expansion initiative for a small hub airport in the country. These investments include:

  • Concourse A expansion, a $110 million project to accommodate passenger growth. Phase 1 opened to the public on June 16, the concourse added eight new gates, expanded gate space to accommodate larger aircraft and introduced new concession and retail concepts, among other amenities.
  • Federal inspection station, which will enable the Airport to offer nonstop international commercial passenger flights in the future.
  • Consolidated rental car facility, a $156 million project that will offer additional transportation accommodations to travelers visiting West Michigan and include an enclosed walkway from the terminal. This project broke ground in May 2023 with an expected completion date in 2025.
  • Air traffic control tower relocation, with siting efforts completed, this project will now transition to the design phase in 2023.
  • Additional parking capacity to accommodate increased guest traffic.
  • Terminal enhancement project, which is a proposed plan to further extend the front of the terminal to add a checked baggage inspection system to streamline the post-ticketcounter journey for baggage, decrease processing time and increase capacity.

Long distance bus lines expand in Grand Rapids

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Business, Travel, , , ,

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

Within only a couple of months of an announcement that long distance bus service would be available from Grand Rapids, offerings have expanded.

FlixBus just added routes for Muskegon and Chicago. (Courtesy, FlixBus)

FlixBus, which was the first to announce it would be expanding its long distance service to Grand Rapids. Since that expansion in March, which was a route to and from Detroit with a stop in East Lansing, FlixBus has added routes for Muskegon and Chicago.

The Muskegon route will run five days a week, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Morning trips will depart from Detroit at 10 a.m. and afternoon trips will depart from Grand Rapids at 3:20 p.m. The Muskegon stop is at the Muskegon Laundromat, 1490 E. Apple Ave.

 

The Muskegon route will include stops in Grand Rapids (downtown), at the downtown Burger King, 410 Pearl St. NW, near the downtown YMCA; Grand Rapids (East) at the Cascade Meijer, 5531 28th St. Ct. SE; East Lansing, near the Frandor Shopping Centers; and the final stop is Detroit at Grand Circus Park, 501 Park Ave.

This month, FlixBus also including a Chicago Route that will start and stop in East Lansing and stoping at both the Grand Rapids downtown and Grand Rapids east locations. The northbound scheduled will leave from Chicago at 9:30 a.m. from the Chicago Bus Station, 630 West Harrison St., Chicago. It will stop at 1:45 p.m. at Grand Rapids downtown and 2:10 p.m. at Grand Rapids east. IT will conclude in East Lansing at 3:25 p.m.

The southbound trip will leave from East Grand Rapids at 4:30 p.m., stopping at Grand Raids east at 5:40 p.m., Grand Rapids downtown at 6:05 p.m., and arriving in Chicago at 8:25 p.m.

Tickets for the routes range from $29.99 to $13.99 depending on departure and length. For more about the new FlixBus line and tickets, visit FlixBus.com or the FlixBus app

Megabus

In April, Megabus, an intercity bus service of Coach USA/Coach Canada, and Indian Trails, a family owned transportation company based in Michigan, announced a partnership to offer daily trips to 26 locations from the City of Grand Rapids.

In April. Megabus announced it would be connecting Grand Rapids to 26 Michigan cities. (Courtesy, Megabus)

Operating from the Grand Rapids Rail Station at 440 Centre Ave., Megabus will be stopping at cities such as Benton Harbor, Big Rapids, Cedar Springs, Detroit, East Lansing, Flint, Holland, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Mackinaw City, Petoskey, Reed City, Rockford, South Haven and Traverse City.

 

Tickets range from $14 to $53 depending on destination. A complete list of cities and schedules are available at us.megabus.com.

Ford International Airport expecting busy spring break; ‘pack your patience’

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Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (Courtesy, Ford Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



As we approach spring break travel, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is expecting a busy week and is reminding guests to pack their patience. 

With the upcoming spring break travel season happening between March 30 and April 11, Ford International Airport is gearing up to ensure the more than 150,000 passengers visiting the terminal that week are ready for a safe and smooth travel experience. As a reminder, the terminal building never closes; however, the security screening checkpoint opens at 4 a.m. or 60 minutes before the earliest departure. 

“We are once again prepared to ensure safe and happy travels for spring break passengers,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Chief Operating Officer Alex Peric said. “We look forward to another busy travel season and are grateful to the many teams and partners who make it possible.”

Important Travel Tips and Numbers

Some of the top prohibited, voluntarily abandoned items for spring break travelers include:

•Sunscreen lotion and tanning lotion

•Water bottles with water in them

•Gel and spray deodorants

•Liquid makeup and perfumes


Be sure to keep all liquids, gels, creams under 3.4 oz.

Arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure to begin the check-in procedure. Parking will be busy, so please give yourself extra time to find a space.

Passenger Traffic: Guest traffic is currently surpassing 2019 levels, which was a record-breaking year for the Airport. “We expect to be at or above our 2019 spring break travel levels and 8 percent above our 2022 spring break traffic.”

Peak Holiday Travel Dates: March 30 through April 11. Peak departure dates are March 30 and April 2. Expected peak return dates for passengers are April 8 and 9. 

Expected Spring Break Travel: 150,000-plus total passengers from March 30 through April 11. This includes both departing and arriving passengers. As many as 13,000-plus passengers on peak days.

Top Destinations: Punta Gorda, Orlando, Clearwater, Tampa, Sarasota and Washington D.C. 

In addition, to kick off one of the most anticipated weeks of vacation, the Airport will host a Passenger Appreciation Day on March 31 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Passengers will be greeted with a live band, special costumed characters, a puppy parade and more. 

Airline Contacts

Individual airlines are responsible for the check-in process, all matters related to gates (including departures and deplanings), the handling of passenger luggage, their plane de-icing process, cancellation or delay of flights, passenger ticketing and rebooking options.

If you have questions related to any of the items listed above, please contact your airline.

Poem by former Grand Rapids poet laureate going to the moon

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Recreation, Travel, ,

By Peg West
Grand Valley State University

Patricia Clark

A poem by Patricia Clark, professor emerita of writing and former poet laureate of Grand Rapids, is slated to be launched to the moon as part of the “Lunar Codex” project.

The poem, “Astronomy ‘In Perfect Silence,'” will be part of a time capsule headed to the moon in 2024. Lunar Codex project leaders say they are using surplus payload space for multiple moon missions to archive the works of more than 30,000 artists from around the world on the moon.

Clark’s piece, which will be stored on archival technology, is part of the “Polaris” collection, which is scheduled to launch in November 2024. The poem is also in an anthology named “The Polaris Trilogy: Poems for the Moon.”

An invitation for her piece to “go to the moon”

She was invited by an editor soliciting poems for the project to contribute a piece, an invitation that Clark eagerly accepted. She learned that her poem was chosen with an email that opened with, “You’re going to the Moon! Well, to be more precise, your poem is.”

Read the poem on Patricia Clark’s website.

For Clark, who was poet laureate for Grand Rapids from 2005-2007 and also served as Grand Valley’s poet-in-residence, it is a thrill for her poem to be included in the payload carrying artistic material that is set to stay at the moon in perpetuity.

“My husband says he’s going to look up there and think about my poem,” Clark said.

Poets were asked to tell the judges if they were writing about the moon, stars or sun. Clark said she chose a form called abecedarian, which is a 26-line poem where each line starts with a letter, A-Z, in order of the alphabet (and with a little poetic license where necessary, as Clark did with the line starting with “X.”).

A celebration of astronomy and teaching

The poem is a celebration of astronomy and the wonder of space.

Her inspiration was an astronomy professor from her undergraduate time at the University of Washington whose enthusiasm for the subject stayed with her even though she never pursued the discipline professionally.

“When I saw the call for work, I was immediately excited because I thought, ‘This will give me a chance to write about this experience I had.’ I thought I’d start writing about the experience of the class and see what I get to,” Clark said.

 

A key reason she knows that class stuck with her is because she still has the book, one of the few from college that she saved after multiple decades and many moves. She valued the star charts, too.

Though the poem notes that Clark had forgotten the professor’s name, she contacted her alma mater to see if they could figure out who the professor was. She soon learned that the professor was George Wallerstein, who had sadly died in recent years.

But the poem is a testament to his inspiration as a teacher and the importance of a well-rounded education, she said. While she didn’t dig deeply into the field, she has a deep appreciation of it because of this teacher.

“It might not be something you spent your life on, but it mattered to you. That’s what liberal education is all about,” Clark said. “The magic of space and the wonder of it all is still there because of this class and this professor who was so jazzed about it all.”

Bus service now available to Detroit

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Travel, West Michigan, , ,

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

FlixBus will be operating a new route from Grand Rapids to Detroit and back. (Courtesy, FlixBus)

Starting this week, bus service that goes beyond the Kent County area will now be available in Grand Rapids.

FlixBus announced this week that it is bringing long distance busing back to the Grand Rapids area by starting a route that will travel to and from the Detroit area with a stop in East Lansing.

Having been present in the North American market since 2018, Munich-based Flix SE acquired Greyhound Lines In. in 2021. Recently Flix North America Inc., the Dallas-based entity overseeing operations for both Greyhound and FlixBus across North America, announced a co-integration of both brand’s booking platforms. This will allow passengers to purchase both Greyhound and FlixBus tickets on each brands’ websites to more than 2,300 destinations across the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Currently only FlixBus will be serving the Grand Rapids area, said FlixBus Public Relations Manager Sean Hanft.

“If passengers make the trip to Detroit for example, they can transfer to Greyhound buses throughout the U.S., transfer to FlixBus’ domestic network in Canada and more,” Hanft said. “So it s a great expansion in local service for Grand Rapids’ travelers, as well as giving them access to connections in metropolitan areas like Detroit to more destinations across North America.”

The new route, which officially starts on Thursday, March 16, will have four stops. Two are in Grand Rapids: Grand Rapids (East) is the Cascade Meijer, 5531 28th St. Ct. SE, and Grand Rapids (Downtown) is at the downtown Burger King, 410 Pearl St. NW, near the downtown YMCA. The East Lansing stop is at 3121 E. Saginaw St, near the Frandor Shopping Center. The Detroit stop is at Grand Circus Park, 501 Park Ave.

The line will run five days a week, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It departs daily at 10:15 a.m. from Detroit, arriving at 1 p.m. in Grand Rapids. It leaves from Grand Rapids at 3:20 p.m. and arrives in Detroit at 6:30 p.m.

“Whenever FlixBus enters a new market, college students are typically among our biggest fans who need affordable, convenient transportation for holidays, weekend trips and more, that is a major factor that we take into account with every expansion,” Hanft said, adding that FlixBus is a compelling option for college students throughout the region looking for sustainable, budget-friendly travel options.

 

Tickets for Detroit to Grand Rapids trips start at $37.99 and Grand Rapids to East Lansing start at $25.99.

Just like other transportation options such as airlines and trains, FlixBus passengers have the option to pick a seat or select to not have a neighboring passenger for an additional fee. Passengers are allowed one carry-on and one stowaway luggage item with additional luggage being added for a small fee.

As FlixBus builds its Michigan network, it hopes to add new connections to other destinations such as Chicago, Hanft said.

For more about the new FlixBus line and tickets, visit FlixBus.com or the FlixBus app, and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. 

Ford International Airport invites West Michigan artists to submit proposals for wall art installations

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The mural, “Chickens Don’t Fly Too Much,” was designed and installed by local artist Reb Roberts in 2020 in the Ford International Airport. The 80-foot mural is part of the Airport’s Public Art Program (created in partnership with the Frey Foundation) and is located on the ramp leading up to Concourse A. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is requesting proposals for murals and 2D wall art applications to be displayed in the newly expanded $110 million Concourse A.



Designed by architect Jorge Barrero of HKS, Concourse A will mimic the experience of arriving in West Michigan. Artists should aim to complement West Michigan’s identity from the blues of Lake Michigan and the natural tans of the dunes to the grays and purples of the urban core to the greens of the forests and farmland in between.

“This new modernized concourse was designed to reflect the unique characteristics of our region,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “Our design team was very intentional about creating opportunities within this new space to showcase the diverse talents of our local art community.”

The Concourse A project – part of the Elevate capital expansion program to enhance the Airport’s facilities and infrastructure – is designed to reflect the culture of the region. This $110 million extension will more than double the length and width of the existing concourse to meet the growing passenger demand for air travel.


90,000 square feet of new space

New dining options, amenities, such as an executive lounge, and retail options will be located throughout the 90,000 square feet of new space.

Thanks to support from the Frey Foundation, the Ford International Airport will continue to invest in the local art community through its public art program. Concourse A will feature three art mediums, including custom terrazzo flooring, a suspended art installation and wall art.

Artists interested in submitting proposals for mural and 2D wall art can find more information at flyford.org/elevate/opportunities. Submissions are due March 26, 2023.

Ford International Airport announces local artists selected to feature terrazzo art installations

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(Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



By WKTV Staff

greer@wktv.org



The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is pleased to announce that four local artists have been selected to install permanent terrazzo floor art designs in the $110 million Concourse A expansion.

Thanks to support from the Frey Foundation, the Ford International Airport will continue to invest in local artists through its public art program. The Concourse A extension – part of Elevate capital expansion program – will feature three art mediums, including custom terrazzo flooring, a suspended art installation and wall art. The four artists selected to feature their terrazzo designs include:

  • George Eberhardt III
  • Kim Nguyen
  • Maureen Nollette
  • Michael Pfleghaar

“We are thrilled to feature these talented artists, each of whom brings a unique viewpoint of West Michigan, in our newly enhanced and modernized Concourse A,” said Tory Richardson, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority president and CEO. “With millions of passengers passing through our Airport every year, we are delighted that the diverse talents of our art community will be showcased to all coming to our region.”

Each terrazzo design reflects a different aspect of West Michigan — from the blues of Lake Michigan to the natural tans of the dunes, the grays and purples of the urban core to the greens of the forests and farmland in between. Artists crafted designs to complement the physical context of the local region while also expressing the non-physical perception, diversity and unique identity of the larger West Michigan community.

George Eberhardt III, inspired by aspects of Katsushika Hokusai’s “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” referenced Lake Michigan and its water elements in his design that measures a diameter of 15 feet.



George Eberhardt III. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)



With a background in program development and curriculum design, Eberhardt focuses on enriching the lives of youth and diverse communities as an artist, muralist and art teacher. A previous ArtPrize® winner, Eberhardt’s mural work can be seen across West Michigan with pieces at Slows BBQ in downtown Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Public Schools, West Grand Neighborhood Organization, Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, among many others. 



Kim Nguyen. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)

Kim Nguyen referenced the cities and towns of Grand Rapids and surrounding West Michigan areas while also including representations of Grand Rapids’ agricultural, medical and manufacturing industries in her design. Her installation will pay homage to our community’s former moniker, “Furniture City,” while winding the Grand River and Grand Rapids’ proximity to the shores of Lake Michigan.

“I am overjoyed and feel incredibly honored to be one of the artists helping new residents and future travelers see the beauty of our home through artwork beneath their feet,” Nguyen said. “I have always felt a fondness for airports because they bring me the thrill of travel, and in the case of Ford International Airport, the relieving feeling of being almost home.

“I have a photograph where I am two years old and meeting my three older brothers at Ford International Airport, it is there that I met them and my grandparents for the very first time. Though I was born in Grand Rapids, my family are refugees and immigrants from Vietnam, and I can’t imagine what they felt when they landed here in West Michigan.”



Maureen Nollette. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)




Maureen Nollette, inspired by a photograph she took of a Sand Cherry shrub on a roadside beach in Michigan, created designs to showcase the vastness of the Lake Michigan Dunes and the region’s native flora.

Nollette is currently the visiting assistant professor at Grand Valley State University in the department of Visual & Media Arts and was previously a resident artist for the Josef and Anni Alvers Foundation and Ngo Le Korsa Project in Sinthian, Africa, as well as for the Marble House Project in Dorset, Vermont.










Michael Pfleghaar recently completed a collection of plein air paintings which was translated into his terrazzo designs to replicate West Michigan’s natural forestry and agriculture.

Michael Pfleghaar. (Courtesy, Ford International Airport)

Pfleghaar has permanent collections at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Steelcase, Inc., Herman Miller, the State of Michigan and Grand Valley State University. Apple, HBO, CBS, ForeSee, Hayworth and Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts are a few of the organizations that have utilized his illustrative artwork.


The four terrazzo designs will be installed in highly visible locations for direct interaction with passengers. The artists worked closely with contractor, Central Tile and Terrazzo Co., to ensure the terrazzo accurately matches their artistic intent. 

The installation of the terrazzo art pieces is expected to be completed by June 2023. For more information about the artists and the capital expansion program, Elevate, visit flyford.org/elevate.

Pine Rest, Spectrum South to be added to bus route

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Local Business, Travel, , , , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Starting Aug. 29, the Clyde Park south route 10 will change. (Supplied)

With Byron Township’s decision to not renew its contact with The Rapid, the transportation agency took the opportunity to realign its south Clyde Park Avenue route (Route 10) to serve some of the area’s critical destinations.

Starting Aug. 29, the route will include new stops at the Special Olympics and Disability Advocates of Kent County facility on 68th Street, Cutlerville’s Pine Rest location, and the Spectrum Health South Pavilion.

“We are proud to work with The Rapid to create a new bus stop and turnaround on Pine Rest’s Cutlerville campus,” said Pine Rest President Mark Eastburg. “Access to transportation is essential for our community and this service will greatly benefit our friends and neighbors who are seeking care at Pine Rest, as well as our employees who can now choose public transpiration as an option. Providing more access to our campus gives more opportunity to receive mental health and emergency care at Pine Rest’s psychiatric urgent care center.”

At its June board meeting, Byron Township did not vote in favor of renewing its contract with The Rapid, which previously funded a portion of Route 10 south of 54th Street. This provided an opportunity to evaluate and change route patterns to serve critical destinations.

Beginning on Aug. 29, Route 10 will have stops at:

  • Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) campus and Disability Advocates of Kent County
  • Pine Rest
  • Spectrum Health South Pavilion

The reroute impacts some of the existing stops along Route 10. Several stops along Division Avenue and 68th Street will be eliminated. The stops along 54th street will remain to serve Route 1 – Division but will no longer be used as stops for Route 10. Northbound stops along Clyde Park will remain in service south of 54th Street.The Rapid also operates the Go!Bus paratransit services that provide rides to ADA-eligible customers within its service area. With transit agencies being required to provide services within three-fourth of a mile of their fixed-transit routes, the areas served by Go!Bus will shift around the new route configuration.

“It’s great working with the Rapid staff to provide a workable solution for the new Special Olympics campus,” said Disability Advocates of Kent County Executive Director Dave Bulkowski. “The new routing will provide a mainline bus stop in front of our facilities on 68th Street. This makes it safer for transit customers by eliminating the need to cross five lanes of traffic to access Disability Advocates and the Special Olympics campus. With these stops, we also maintain Go!Bus paratransit service which is absolutely critical for our staff, volunteers, and participants.”

The updates to Route 10 will ultimately help drive The Rapid’s efforts in cultivating a more equitable community in all six-plus cities by providing access to these essential services.

“This realignment will provide safer access to the Special Olympics of Michigan campus and co- located services provided by Disability Advocates of Kent County. It will also allow for greater access to employment opportunities for our six-cities residents,” said Deb Prato, CEO of The Rapid. “We work hard to build partnerships and innovative services to meet the needs of the community we serve.”

To review the changes to Route 10 (Clyde Park), visit ridetherapid.org.

How to give input on Ford Airport traffic study

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Local Business, Travel, , ,

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

The Airport Access Study is looking at three different possible new entrances to the airport along with improving its current entrances. (Supplied)

Area residents have until Sept. 2 to weigh in on their thoughts of proposed improve access to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

Residents can visit www.gvmc.org/airport-acces-study to share their thoughts on three new proposed entrance ways along with improvements to the current airport entrances and the addition of other modes of transportation, such as buses, rails, and bicycles, to the airport.

Traffic at Ford Airport continues to increase

The Grand Valley Metro Council, in partnership with several local municipalities such as the Kent Count Road Commission and the City of Kentwood as well as the Ford Airport and the Michigan Department of Transportation has spend the past couple of months investigating ways to improve access to the airport as well as the surrounding local road and freeway systems.

The Airpot Access Study also considers other transportation options besides vehicles. (Supplied)

Before the COVID pandemic, the Ford Airport had some of its highest passenger numbers in history and while those numbers dipped during the pandemic, like it did for many other airports across the country, in the past few months, the Ford Airport has seen its numbers return to pre-pandemic levels.

With indications that the airport’s passenger traffic will continue to increase, the GVMC decided to conduct an Airport Access Study for the Ford Airport with the goal of finding improved access to the airport.

Currently the Ford Airport’s main entrances are the Patterson Avenue/60th Street and Patterson Avenue/44th Street, where there have been a number of crashes. There is also a lack of sidewalks in the area preventing non-motorize options.

Creating a better flow

Through the process, the GVMC came up with three new access points to the airport along with improvements to the airport’s current entryways. Those improvements for the current entrances would include better signage and road markings, rerouting of traffic patterns and a planned road widening along Patterson by MDOT.

The first alternative access would be from I-96 and 36th Street, which would create a direct roadway from 36th Street to the terminal, avoids parking expansion on the north side of the terminal, and includes a tunnel below the current and future expanded runway.

The next alternative access would be Thornapple River Drive which would add access points for freight traffic for the airport’s growing cargo operations hub.

The third alternative would be a proposed M-6 access that would combine a ring road extended from 60th Street to Thornapple River Dive and add M-6 interchanges. This alternative would require a comprehensive roadway reconfiguration but would prove new access to help separate freight traffic from passenger traffic and support the developing industrial area that is southwest of the airport.

By rail, trail, bus or bike

The study also looks at alternative modes of transportation to the airport such as transit services and pedestrian and bicycle lanes. These alternatives include a downtown express bus/shuttle, expanded transit service in the Cascade and Caledonia areas, extending MDOT rail line from north-south to directly to the airport terminal, terminal curb extension to accommodate and separate departure and arrival traffic, and proposed sidewalks with new non-motorized facilities planned along the surrounding area. 

Gerald R. Ford International Airport awarded $8.7 million for improvements

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Local Business, Politics, Travel, West Michigan, , , , ,

By Cris Greer

WKTV Managing Editor

greer@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport will receive nearly $8.7 million in federal funding to install eight new passenger boarding bridges.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport to receive nearly $8.7 million for terminal improvements. (Courtesy)

The Federal Aviation Administration funding, announced by U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, was made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Signed into Law Last Year

“This funding will support eight new passenger boarding bridges in 2023 to further enhance the guest experience and provide growth opportunities for airline service in West Michigan for years to come,” said Torrance Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. ”We are thankful for the investment in community infrastructure by Senator Stabenow and Senator Peters, which allows the Gerald R. Ford International Airport to compete nationally for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding to invest in our passenger terminal.”

This funding is from the Airport Terminal Program. Senators Stabenow and Peters helped secure these funds in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

“Having reliable and safe air service is crucial for tourism, commerce, and economic development,” Senator Stabenow said. “This funding is another critical piece of the infrastructure investments coming to our state and will improve customer experiences at our airports.”

Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (Courtesy)

The Airport Terminal Program is one of three aviation programs created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The law provides $1 billion annually for five years for Airport Terminal grants.

“Airports play a critical role in boosting Michigan’s economy by connecting communities and businesses to important destinations and resources,” Senator Peters said.

“I was proud to help secure this federal support through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help Gerald Ford International Airport make necessary upgrades to critical infrastructure, ensuring it can continue to welcome and transport travelers safely and efficiently for years to come.”

The Airport also will receive a $3.6 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for infrastructure improvements. The funding will go toward expanding the airport’s snow removal equipment building, as well as reconstructing existing airport service roads, runway lighting systems and the aircraft rescue and firefighting building.

Paddle Antrim hosts kick off to the paddling season

Entertainment, Environment, Great Lakes, Kids Activities, Sports, Travel, Upcoming Events, , ,

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Paddle Antrim kicks off the season with its June 2 event. (Supplied)

Paddle Antrim will kick-off the paddling season on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail with a special community paddle and gathering in Elk Rapids with Short’s Brewing Company.

On Thursday, June 2, Paddle Antrim and Short’s Brewing Company invite the community for a community paddle on Elk River launching from Elk Rapids Rotary Park followed by a gathering just up the road at the Short’s Pull Barn.

This special gathering is the celebration of the upcoming season on Northern Michigan’s only state designated water trail. A community paddle will take place from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. on Elk River followed by a gathering featuring live music, food trucks, and beverages at Short’s Pull Barn.

“In addition to this event, Paddle Antrim is thrilled to offer programming all season long. “After a couple years of uncertainty, we are thrilled to bring back our programming in full force this summer,” said Deana Jerdee, executive director of Paddle Antrim. “Our classes and community paddles are great ways for paddlers to connect with each other and the water in a fun and educational way.”

Paddle Antrim will host 15 kayaking classes for both adults and children. (supplied)

The non-profit organization will host seven community paddles, 15 kayaking classes, four stewardship classes and the beloved three-day Paddle Antrim Festival.

Community paddles are free and open to the public. These relaxed hour-long paddles take place along different sections of the Chain of Lakes and all paddlers are welcome – canoes, kayaks, and stand up paddle boards. Paddlers are responsible for bringing their own paddle craft and personal flotation devices (life jackets) must always be worn when out on the water.

 

Adult classes teach paddlers the basics of paddling all types of kayaks in a fun and safe way. These classes are great for beginners but anyone who has never received formal instruction will benefit. Kids’ classes are a great way to introduce your child to the sport of kayaking. Designed with fun and water safety as primary goals, these classes teach students through a variety of games and exploration. All classes are taught by American Canoe Association (ACA) certified instructors.

 

Paddle Antrim has partnered with Grass River Natural Area, Tipp of the Mitt Watershed Council, Little Traverse Conservancy, Kalkaska Conservation District, Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy, and CAKE CISMA to offer four stewardship classes in three different counties in Northern Michigan – Antrim, Charlevoix and Kalkaska. These classes train paddlers to identify and report invasive species while preventing their spread.

The Paddle Antrim Festival will take place Sept. 15 -17. Sponsored by Short’s Brewing Company, the Festival is a celebration of the waterways with two days of paddling and three days of community events.

 

For more information on all the Paddle Antrim events and classes visit www.paddleantrim.com/events. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Shoreline shipwreck viewing predicted to be excellent this summer

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Environment, Great Lakes, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local History, Recreation, Travel, West Michigan, , , ,

By Jim DuFresne
Capital News Service

LANSING – Some trails break out of the woods at a lake. Some climb a dune to a sweeping view.

And many – more than you probably thought – lead to a shipwreck with a story on a beach.

This summer could be excellent for shoreline shipwreck viewing as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers predicts that the water level of lakes Michigan and Huron could be almost 2 feet below the record highs set in 2020.

Michigan’s fascinating maritime history is not limited to old lighthouses or restored life-saving stations.

 

Remains of the Francisco Morazan off South Manitou Island at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Jim DuFresne, MichiganTrailMaps.com.Remains of the Francisco Morazan off South Manitou Island at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

The state is blessed with accessible shipwrecks that don’t require an air tank or a wetsuit to view – only a pair of hiking boots, a paddle or a snorkel and mask.

The heart of shipwreck territory is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, but there are others, including a wreck in Thompson’s Harbor State Park in Presque Isle County and more off the shore of the Upper Peninsula’s Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Michigan’s shoreline wrecks are constantly evolving, depending on wave action, shifting sand and Great Lake water levels.

High and dry for easy viewing this summer will be one of Michigan’s newest exposed wrecks, the Jennie and Annie.

The 137-foot schooner, built in 1863, was rounding Sleeping Bear Point in November 1872 when gale-force winds pushed it into the shallows and reefs of Lake Michigan’s notorious Manitou Passage. The ship, its 10-member crew and a cargo of corn were driven aground 9 miles south near Empire. Only three crew members survived.

Gone forever? Hardly. For the past two summers, a substantial piece of the hull has been visible on a Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore beach.

Here is a landlubber’s guide to other great Michigan shipwrecks:

City of Boston: Built in Cleveland in 1863, this 136-foot-long wooden steamer also featured a mast – and a history of bad luck.

In 1868, it collided with another steamer and sank in the Straits of Mackinac. When the steamship was raised 125 feet two years later, it was the deepest salvage ever attempted in the Great Lakes up to that time.

After being rebuilt in Cleveland, the ship returned to service as a stream barge, only to finally meet its end on Nov. 4, 1873, during a storm with blinding snow.

It was hauling flour and corn when it ran aground on a sand bar just off Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve in Benzie County. The raging surf quickly broke the hull, and the crew abandoned ship.
The ship’s remains are west of the preserve’s beach access stairway, 150 to 200 feet from shore, depending on water levels. It’s angled in 7 to 8 feet of water, with its stern buried in the sand bar and its bow occasionally less than 4 feet below the lake’s surface. It’s easy snorkeling, and visitors can see the outline of the bow in clear water from the preserve’s second observation deck.

James McBride: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a graveyard for shipwrecks, including this 121-foot brig built in 1848 and lost in October 1857. A November storm in 2014 washed up a 43-foot-long section of the James McBride, making it the largest shipwreck ever to appear on the park’s shoreline.

Francisco Morazan: On Nov. 27, 1960, this Liberian freighter left Chicago bound for Holland with 940 tons of cargo, a crew of 13, its captain and his pregnant wife.

Remains of a wreck at Lake Superior’s AuSable Reef as seen from a Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore trail.
Jim DuFresne, MichiganTrailMaps.com.Remains of a wreck at Lake Superior’s AuSable Reef as seen from a Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore trail.

The next day, the ship ran into 40-mile-per-hour winds, snow and fog that made for a virtual whiteout.

The captain thought he was rounding Beaver Island, more than 100 miles away, when he ran aground on the south side of South Manitou Island.

A Coast Guard cutter and helicopter rescued the 15 people, but left the wreck behind to be forever battered by Lake Michigan.

Today it’s the most popular destination for campers on the island. The wreck is also popular with kayakers who bring their boats over on the ferry.


American Union: This 186-foot, three-masted schooner was one of the largest sailing ships to work the Great Lakes when launched in 1862. Its size ultimately led to its demise when it encountered a fatal storm in 1894 that grounded it at Thompson’s Harbor State Park, northwest of Alpena. The crew was saved, and today the wreckage rests a quarter-mile from shore in 10 feet of crystal-clear Lake Huron water.

The remains of the hull offer viewing opportunities for snorkelers and kayakers.

AuSable Reef Wrecks: From Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’s Hurricane River Campground, visitors can head east on the Lakeshore Trail and pass several wrecks, then end up at the AuSable Light Station built to protect the ships.

The first wreck, the Mary Jarecki, lies just outside the campground. The wooden bulk freighter was carrying iron ore and grounded on the AuSable Reef in July 1883. When other boats couldn’t tow it off, the ship was left to be battered by Lake Superior.

Its remains are just offshore and are challenging to see if there is a chop on the lake surface. 

But a hike further down the trail leads to timbers and ironwork from two wrecks half-buried in the sand.

The first is the Sitka, a wooden freighter that grounded and broke in half in 1904.

The second is the Gale Staples, built in 1881. The wooden freighter was loaded with coal when it beached itself on the sandy reef in 1918.

America: On June 6, 1928, this tourist ship was loaded with crates of fresh fruit and 48 passengers when it left a resort on Isle Royale National Park’s Washington Island and, within a half-mile, struck a reef.

It sank within sight of horrified hotel employees and guests back at the dock.
No deaths occurred, but bushels of fresh fruit washed ashore for weeks after the mishap.

Even more unusual, the ship sank in a vertical position, with one end lying less than 3 feet below the surface of Lake Superior.

Curious visitors can rent a canoe in Windigo and paddle out of Washington Harbor into the North Gap, where a buoy marks the ship’s location. Lake Superior is so clear it’s amazing how much is visible from a canoe seat.

Jim DuFresne is the editorial director at MichiganTrailMaps.com and an MSU Journalism School alum.

Ready for music’s ‘what’s hot’ on a hot summer day? A July trip to Chicago is in order

Entertainment, Reviews, Travel, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects,
  • The National. (Supplied/Graham MacIndoe)
  • Pitchfork Music Festival 2021. (Supplied/Matt Lief Anderson)
  • CupcakKe. (Supplied)
  • Pitchfork Music Festival 2021 at Chicago’s Union Park. (Supplied/Julian Bajsel)
  • Japanese Breakfast. (Supplied/Peter Ash)
  • L’Rain (Supplied/Nathan Bajar)
  • Pitchfork Music Festival 2021 at Chicago’s Union Park. (Supplied/Julian Bajsel)
  • Magdalena Bay. (Supplied/Lissyelle Laricchia)

By K.D. Norris

kdnorris.com

Music festivals are returning in force this summer but if you want to get in on “the rising indie class” you might want to schedule a road trip to Chicago’s Union Park in mid-July. 

Pitchfork Music Festival will return Friday, July 15, through Sunday, July 17, with a line-up of the familiar — including headliners The National, Mitski, and The Roots — but also the “what’s next” in indie and alt and about half a dozen other genres undefinable.

“This year’s lineup is a celebration of the rising indie class, and those who continue to pave the way for innovation,” Puja Patel, editor in chief of Pitchfork, said in supplied material. “Our goal was to highlight a diverse group of artists who are taking their musical genres to new heights.”

Day 1

The Festival kicks off on Friday with The National, who played Pitchfork Music Festival’s first year in 2006,, as well as Spiritualized, Parquet Courts, Tierra Whack, Amber Mark, Dawn Richard, Tkay Maidza, Indigo De Souza, SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE, SPELLLING, Camp Cope, Wiki, Ethel Cain, and CupcakKe.

The National will be the “name” on that day/night/the weekend — the show marks a return to touring for the band in fact: “The last couple years have given us ample time for reflection and rejuvenation. Summer 2022 is a time for reunion. We look forward to gathering with friends, old and new. United in music and light, suspended in time,” the band states on their website.

But maybe the best of the early Friday acts will be the outstanding Parquet Courts — their late 2021 release Sympathy for Life was outstanding. And for the “I saw her when …” crowd, CupcakKe should be tasty.

Day 2

On Saturday, headliner Mitski will be joined by Japanese Breakfast, Lucy Dacus, Low, Magdalena Bay, Dry Cleaning, Karate, Iceage, yeule, Arooj Aftab, The Armed, Chubby & the Gang, Hyd, and Jeff Parker & the New Breed.

You can’t turn on a radio (over-the-air or celestial) these days without catching Mitski’s catchy 1980s-retro bad-girl hit “The Only Heartbreaker” off her 2022 release Laurel Hell. But Japanese Breakfast is sure to be tasty too.

Day 3

The festival closes Sunday with The Roots, Toro y Moi, Earl Sweatshirt, Noname, BADBADNOTGOOD, Cate Le Bon, Tirzah, Xenia Rubinos, Erika de Casier, Injury Reserve, KAINA, L’Rain, Sofia Kourtesis, and Pink Siifu.

Hey, I have grey hair … You had me at Roots …

Details, details …

Pitchfork Music Festival tickets are available, with three-day passes, single-day passes — and  “The Pitchfork PLUS”  For tickets and more information visit here.

The Pitchfork Music Festival showcases the best up-and-coming music from around the world, as well as “special performances from touring stalwarts and legends alike,” according to festival promotional material. It also features diverse vendors, including specialty record and craft fairs, and it works to support local businesses while promoting the Chicago arts and food communities as a whole.
 
The Pitchfork Music Festival will adhere to the city of Chicago’s current-at-the-time COVID-19 protocol, according to supplied material, and will remain in close contact with city and state officials as regulations evolve. Festival attendees will be updated on COVID-19 protocol via email, and can find the latest safety guidelines on Pitchfork Music Festival’s FAQ page, and by following @PitchforkFest on Instagram and Twitter. 


Pitchfork is one of the most read voices in music, and is often considered the preeminent resource for fans looking to discover and experience new music through reviews and features of the people, trends, and events shaping the music industry. Pitchfork hosts annual Music Festivals in Chicago and Paris. For more go to Pitchfork.com and follow @pitchfork.