People Attending Self Emmanuel Hospice’s grief support services are open to anyone in the community. (Adobe Stock/Supplied)
By Emmanuel Hospice
In our commercial world, we’re subjected to displays of gifts, candy and cards for weeks ahead of a holiday. With technology today, there are even targeted ads on our phones and social media platforms that show us memories from past celebrations.
For someone struggling with grief, these aren’t always friendly cues to prepare for the holiday. They can be triggering reminders of how a loved one isn’t here anymore.
“We know significant dates like anniversaries, birthdays and holidays can be a challenge for those grieving the loss of an important person in their life,” says Merrin Bethel, a bereavement coordinator with Emmanuel Hospice. “Holidays like Father’s Day and Mother’s Day can be especially difficult after the loss of a parent.”
Parents are often the first to love and care for all of us. It can be painful mourning that unique relationship with someone who has known you since you came into the world. Around days dedicated to honoring parents, there can be multiple, conflicting emotions.
“You may be angry at the world for celebrating a day that highlights just how much the person you love is missing from the picture, all while wanting to be a part of the laughter and joy around you,” Ashley Huisman, another Emmanuel Hospice bereavement coordinator, explains. “Remember it is OK to feel more than one thing at once and none of these feelings are wrong. Give yourself the space to ride the roller coaster of emotions the day may bring.”
Quite often the anticipation of the day can be worse than the day itself. To help prevent anxiety, Huisman recommends making a plan A, B and C – or as many as you need – to find a sense of peace that whatever happens, you’ll be ready.
“Take a good inventory of yourself, your emotions and what you need out of the day,” Huisman says. “Maybe plan A is to be with friends and family, sharing memories and participating in planned activities. Maybe plan B is leaving the gathering early or skipping a part of the day all together because being with others may be a bit overwhelming.”
Acknowledging the day with a remembrance activity is another healthy way to cope.
“It’s common for people to wonder if the holiday should even be celebrated or observed after the loss of a loved one and what that should look like,” Bethel adds. “We invite people to do whatever feels best for their family.
“It’s great if you want to get birthday cake on your dad’s birthday or go out to dad’s favorite restaurant on Father’s Day. It’s healthy to continue finding ways to stay connected with a person we’ve lost.”
After the loss of a loved one, it’s also important to find support in family, friends and sometimes even the help of a professional to navigate what you’re experiencing.
“If possible, find a friend or other supportive person you can talk to honestly about the day,” Huisman says. “Let them know when you are having a hard moment or when you want to share a memory. Remember, you are not alone.”
For more information on coping with grief, Emmanuel Hospice is hosting topical three-session workshops through end of August. Held at 401 Hall St. SW in Grand Rapids, the in-person grief support events are free and open to anyone in the community regardless of whether they have a prior connection with the nonprofit or hospice care.
The organization also provides individual support to anyone who has suffered a loss. For more information or to RSVP for a workshop or group, email EHBereavement@EmmanuelHospice.org or call 616.719.0919.
The Soul Syndicate kicks off the Wyoming Concert series on Tuesday, June 7. (Supplied)
The Wyoming Concerts in the Park kicks off with Soul Syndicate, which is one of the most recognizable bands in the area known for its horn section that cranks out classic soul, R&B and funk tunes meant to keep those toes tapping and the young at heart dancing.
“It’s a party!,” said founder and guitarist Mike Coon, who leads a 10-piece band through a long list of songs everyone knows and loves. “It’s a fun band. You don’t sit in chairs and watch us.”
Soul Syndicate opens the Wyoming weekly concert series at 7 p.m. June 7 at Lamar Park. Admission is free.
The Tuesday night series continues through Aug. 2. See the list of shows below. All will be recorded and aired on WKTV.
Coon said performing in front of fans at outdoor concerts like Wyoming, Meijer Gardens (June 28) and Kentwood (June 30) really brings out a wide range of ages. That’s the great thing about these classic songs by Aretha Franklin, Sam and Dave, KC and Sunshine Band and Chicago, he said, everyone knows them.
“These songs seem to transcend over a lot of ages, particularly in the outdoor shows like Kentwood and Wyoming where you got, literally, all ages,” Coon said.
Younger people know these songs from parents and grandparents or they’ve heard them in advertisements.
The Soul Syndicate performs at the Frederick Meijer Gardens June 28 followed by a summer performance at Kentwood on June 30. (Supplied)
“The younger people are like ‘Yeah, I know that song,” he said. “And the older people remember it when it was on the charts.”
“These songs just sort of resonate…. Nobody is hearing that old classic rock song that’s been in their head for 30 years. (Our show) is different. It’s refreshing.”
That was the goal when the band started in 2013. Even though the beginnings of the band had started, it was the urging of friend Juliet Dragos of WZZM-TV (Channel 13) who reached out to Coon, asking if he could put a group together for a Special Olympics event.
From there they started doing special events, corporate shows, outdoor festivals and casinos.
The premise has always been the same: To entertain crowds with music they know and love and keep them dancing and clapping along.
Their popularity took off because not a lot of bands had horn sections playing these classic songs, he said.
“I couldn’t think of anybody that really did that,” Coon said. “A lot of other bands had one Stevie Wonder song in their set. We had four of them. It set us apart, and the horns made it snap.”
The group consists of: Mike Coon, guitar; Tom Taylor, drums; Katie Sarb, vocals and backup; Matt Fouts, bass; John Neil, keyboards; Tim DenBesten, trumpet (horn leader); Nate Hansen, sax; Jeff Carroll, trombone; and Colin Tobin, lead vocalist.
They also have a couple other musicians who play sax and rotate through the band, Coon said.
They perform about 50 shows a year, which might not seem like a lot, but Coon emphasized that they’re not a “tavern band.”
“We’re all pros.” he said. “No matter the venue we’re given we seem to be able to adapt quickly and make it work.”
But it’s the horn section that really distinguishes the band from others.
“When they’re all in sync it adds that energy to the show, and the audience really responds to them,” Coon said.
“Everybody in the band is an accomplished soloist. Anybody, whether keyboards, bass, drums, anybody in the section can step up and rip your head off on a solo….When the horns are on and in sync, it just blows your hair back. It’s cool.”
August 2 – Grupo Latin – Latin Soul (13 piece band)
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Woodland Mall is fundraising for Movember in honor of Men’s Health Month and, in celebration of Father’s Day, offering a giveaway and gift guide for shoppers.
Camping gear items available from REI. (Courtesy)
Through the end of June, community members are invited to join Woodland Mall in supporting Movember, a charity dedicated to changing the face of men’s health. The organization focuses on mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. As the leading charity for men’s health, Movember raises funds to deliver innovative, breakthrough research and support programs that enable men to live happier, healthier and longer lives.
This month, the mall is donating $500 to the organization and encouraging the community to support the cause as well. To give, individuals can scan the QR code throughout the mall or visit the Woodland Mall team page.
“We’re honored to help raise funds for Movember as a way to support all the incredible fathers and father figures out there,” said Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director for Woodland Mall. “Movember is a fantastic charity that raises awareness for men’s health on a global scale. We look forward to partnering with the community to contribute to such an important cause.”
In celebration of Father’s Day, the mall is also offering a sweepstakes giveaway featuring a gift package for a father which includes gifts cards to REI and the Cheesecake Factory. The giveaway is from Tuesday, June 14 through Thursday, June 16. To enter the contest, visit Woodland Mall’s website, Facebook or Instagram.
Mall hours are 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon-6 p.m. Sunday.
And I’m so excited for the return of Festival of the Arts in downtown Grand Rapids. It’s one of the first major events I experienced when I moved to the area more than 30 years ago, and it showed me that West Michigan cares about the arts, and its children.
Plus, the food is great!
Obviously Festival will make it into my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
What else makes my list? Read on.
Gonzo’s Top 5
Sunday Night Funnies’ Kingpin of Comedy starts June 5. (Courtesy)
5. Sunday Night Funnies – Spectrum Entertainment Complex
The return of the “Kingpin of Comedy” stand-up comedy competition begins Sunday, June 5, at the Spectrum Entertainment Complex. It will continue all summer (and fall), with the finals on Oct. 9. The winner of the competition will win $500 in cash, a Kingpin bowling pin trophy, a customized bowling shirt, and the opportunity to close at the Sunday Night Funnies LaughFest show in 2023. A presentation is planned with the mayor of Wyoming declaring the winner as “the funniest person in town.” Additional prizes also will be awarded from the Spectrum Entertainment Complex, Craig’s Cruisers, the Listening Room and Gilda’s Club’s LaughFest. At this weekend’s show, doors open at 7:30 p.m., followed by the show at 8:30 p.m. Admission is free. The Spectrum Entertainment Complex is located at 5656 Clyde Park Ave. SW, in Wyoming. More details on the Sunday Night Funnies Facebook page.
Saladino Smise will be part at the Kentwood Food Truck. (supplied)
4. Kick-Off to Summer Food Truck Festival
It’s a beautiful weekend to experience 30 food trucks, live music, a beer tent and more at this year’s Food Truck Festival in Kentwood. Hours are 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday (June 4) at Kentwood City Hall and the Kent District Library – Richard L. Root/Kentwood Branch at 4950 Breton Rd. SE.
Festival of the Arts is not the only thing going on this weekend in downtown Grand Rapids. Rock band Modest Mouse (“Float On”)performs at 7 p.m. Friday (June 3) at GLC Live at 20 Monroe. A few tickets remain starting at $50 general admission. More details at concerts.livenation.com. Also, American country a cappella group Home Free performs at8 p.m. Sunday (June 5) at DeVos Performance Hall. The group competed in and won the fourth season of “The Sing-Off” on NBC-TV in 2013. Ticket information at devosperformancehall.com.
pxhere.com
2. Camp Greensky Music Festival
It’s back! America’s favorite Bluegrass music festival led by Michigan’s own Greensky Bluegrass returns with a great lineup. Performances continue today and Saturday (June 3-4) at Shagbark Farm in Caledonia. The schedule includes:
FRIDAY
Dave Bruzza—12:30-1:30 p.m.
Luke Winslow King—2-3 p.m.
Wayword Sons—3:30-4:30 p.m. Peter Rowan—5-6:15 p.m.
It’s known as one of the largest all-volunteer festivals in the country. And it’s a huge part of West Michigan culture. If you’re new to the area, this is the place to be for local acts such as youth ballet and rock bands to local charities raising money through ethnic food booths. It takes up several stages and food booths spread out on downtown streets to make it happen. Festival of the Arts has been known to bring in as many as 300,000 people over the course of three days (June 3-5). This year should be a return to those big crowds. Enjoy. More information at https://festivalgr.org/.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Tarot and numerology are virtually inseparable and essential to one another. (pxhere.com)
It’s said that Tarot can be used to unlock the mystical power of the “cosmic universe.”
People use Tarot as a tool to help connect with their higher self through spiritual enlightenment, self-awareness, and self- improvement. Readings offer insights into past, present, and future events. Readings can also help people understand particular situations often in areas of career, relationships, love-life, and finances.
It seems Tarot and Astrology complement each other as both are based on four elements; air, water, fire, and earth. Additionally, there is a Tarot card for each Zodiac sign. Each Tarot card corresponds to a different planet, sign, or elemental combination in Astrology. Astrology is considered one of the oldest natural sciences while Tarot is considered one of the oldest mystical sciences.
Tarot and numerology are virtually inseparable and essential to one another. Meanings of numbers can add depth to the interpretation of each Tarot card. Cards are numbered 1-10 in both Major Arcana and Minor Arcana in all four suits and court cards are assigned numbers. Interpreting the meaning of the numbers in combination with either traditional or modern meanings of the card can add extra insights to the reading.
There are several different types of Tarot decks to choose from. One of the most traditional Tarot decks for beginners is the Rider-Waite. A standard modern Tarot deck has 78 cards divided into two groups called Major and Minor Arcana with 22 cards known as Trumps and Minor Arcana with 56 cards. Some of the other interesting Tarot decks include: Elemental, The Black Power Tarot, Light Seer’s Tarot, Modern Witch Tarot, and many more.
A tradition Tarot deck for beginners is the Rider-Waite deck. (pxhere.com)
Tarot reader Esther Joy has been on Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters Podcast for episodes 15, 25, and 38 and was also a guest on Cryptic Frequencies. We first met her while she was reading Tarot at a real haunted mansion now known as the Paddock Place. Esther Joy likes to setup a shrine of sorts, using the positive vibrations of some of her favorite crystals, like amethyst, citrine, rose quartz, black tourmaline, and others. The pageantry is further defined as sacred Palo Santo wood is burned during the reading.
Recently on episode 64, Esther Joy joined the show and read for me from a Cosmic Tarot deck. She’s empathic, clairvoyant, a prophetic dreamer, and an artist. She uses her intuitive powers to help interpret the Tarot cards so people can connect with their higher self and tap into their inner wisdom. For a reading. go to Esther Joy’s Facebook page (Esther Joy Tarot).
To get the most out of Tarot readings it’s important to have a positive mind set about the cards and yourself, with the understanding that Tarot at best is a tool or a kind of compass to guide you in the right direction. If we can get past the stereotypical images of a fortune teller peering into a crystal ball, we might be able to recognize Tarot as more self-reflection than divination.
A few years after Senior Sing A-Long started its life enrichment music programs for seniors, they began providing music therapy by licensed music therapists as well. (Courtesy)
Like many organizations, Senior Sing A-Long took a hit in the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.
With senior living communities on lockdown, the Wyoming nonprofit couldn’t schedule the life enrichment music programs the organization has been providing in West Michigan since 2004. The programs, offered for free or at a greatly reduced cost, use live performances to revitalize the minds and spirits of people living in long-term care communities.
The pandemic also made it hard to hold the types of in-person fundraisers that help pay for Senior Sing A-Long’s services, according to Development Director Sarah Dwortz.
But although they have had to reshuffle their priorities at times over the past two years, Senior Sing A-Long is still going strong. They recently received a $6,000 grant from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, which helped to fill a funding gap, Dwortz said.
“We work with about 70 musicians on our list, and communities have their favorites – they can pick from the list,” Dwortz said. “We can offer them at no cost or much below market cost thanks to funding like this.”
Senior Sing A-Long receives grants from many foundations, including the Wyoming Community Foundation, Keller Foundation and West Michigan Alliance for Veterans, as well as corporate sponsorships and private donations.
The organization was founded in 2004 by Ken and Hattie Van Haaften, and is now run by their daughter, Jill Dover. The Van Haaftens started the program after realizing that music programs were one of the only things that could cheer up Ken’s mother, Katherine, when she was living in a nursing home. After a visit from a musician who played songs Katherine remembered from her youth, she would brighten up and talk about her life and memories.
The Senior Sing A-Long program has about 70 musicians working with several communities. (Courtesy)
“It started out by Ken going to Marge’s and finding musicians who might help him out,” said Dwortz, of Ken’s visits to the popular Wyoming doughnut shop (Marge’s Donut Den) that hosts live music. “One thing led to another. Now there’s a wide array of musicians, and the volume has been much greater than Jill and her dad ever anticipated.”
A few years after Senior Sing A-Long started its life enrichment music programs for seniors, they began providing music therapy by licensed music therapists as well. The music therapy program consists of small groups of seniors creating music by playing instruments, and serves as a way to accomplish therapeutic goals.
“Right now we’re working with approximately 60 communities – some just for music therapy, some for life enrichment, and some for both,” Dwortz said.
If funding weren’t an issue, Senior Sing A-Long would love to serve more communities at no cost, Dwortz said. And they would love to add another music therapist to its staff.
“We always want to continue to provide service to communities that otherwise wouldn’t have it due to the budget they have available,” she said. “We believe it’s necessary. It’s basic quality of life. I see it bringing a lot of joy.”
Donations are always welcome – and so are musicians willing to play for the seniors in the communities.
“We are always happy to hear from people if they have a musical talent. We’re always looking for more musicians,” Dwortz said. “For a lot of them, it’s nice to make a little money during the day, and they’re pretty philanthropic at the same time. They’re giving every day they do it. People love them. I think they get something out of it.”
More information about Senior Sing A-Long is available on their website at seniorsingalong.org.
One of the first romantic comedies was the 1934 “It Happened One Night,” directed by Frank Capra.
After four long years of lackluster classes, tedious tests, and Michelle Obama-approved school lunches, I have come to the conclusion that the fondest memories I have of high school consist of the fleeting moments after school hours when I wasn’t being thoroughly “educated,” but instead I was letting myself slip away into the comforting world of cinema. I watched a lot of movies during those moments, and as a result, I have a lot of movies to talk about, and not one piece of homework turned in on time. Is there really a better remedy to this dilemma than to write a series of articles covering the various films that got me through my arduous high school experience? Not when you love movies as much as I do! So, throughout the summer, I shall be presenting you “The Movies That Got Me Through High School!”
It Happened One Night
Why choose to write about a cheesy 1930s romantic comedy for your first entry on a list of films that got you through high school? How is that relevant to your life? On a more important note, how is it relevant to the lives of your readers?
Those are both legitimate questions. Here’s my attempt at answering them.
It Happened One Night is about a spoiled heiress named Ellie Andrews who runs away from her controlling father after he attempts to have her marriage to a famous – but clearly phony – aviator named King Westly annulled. Determined to be with her husband, Ellie disguises herself as a commoner and hops on a bus to New York. Along the way, she meets Peter Warn, a smart-mouth journalist who decides to help Ellie on her journey in exchange for her headline-making story. At first, their opposite personalities clash. Peter is repulsed by Ellie’s privileged upbringing and lack of street smarts, and Ellie is completely taken aback by Peter’s blunt sarcasm and bullying personality. As you might have guessed, the two eventually get to know each other more and end up falling in love.
The film is by the legendary Italian-born American director Frank Capra, who possessed a unique quality that no filmmaker has managed to successfully imitate. Movies like It’s A Wonderful Life, Mr. Smith Goes To Washington, and Mr. Deeds, are not just great escapist entertainment. They are individual works of art that all share one central theme, people need each other. Despite how different we perceive ourselves to be from one another (because of our class, experiences, or intelligence) we are all human, and that makes us the same.
It Happened One Night delivers this message through its main characters. It’s easy to pass off their dynamic as predictable or cliche, especially when you consider that almost every movie ever made with a love story has used it, but to do this is to ignore the fact that this movie was released at a time when the cinema hadn’t even reached middle age. Watching these two leads go from hating each other to being unable to live without one another will cause anyone to come dangerously close to becoming a romantic.
The famous coffee-donut-dunking scene in “It Happened One Night.” (Columbia Pictures)
I never feel bad after watching this movie. Its purpose is to make the audience feel warm and happy by any means necessary. This is likely why everyone involved in making the film thought it would be a flop. Both the leads, Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable, didn’t want to be in the movie. The pampered Hollywood A-listers were not used to filming at real-life locations, which is really the only practical way to shoot a movie that mostly takes place during a bus trip to New York. On top of that, Columbia Pictures didn’t think the film had any chance of attracting a large audience and made very little effort to advertise it. Against all odds and expectations, this simple love story managed to take home five Academy Awards (including Best Picture, and Gables only win for Best Actor) and is remembered as the film that kicked off the classic romantic comedy setup that we still see to this day (some may argue that’s a curse, but those are the same people who dislike Star Wars because it caused, “the death of cinema”).
I’ve watched at least one scene from this movie every month since I first saw it two years ago at the beginning of my sophomore year, just a few months before Covid 19 would enter the country and change everything. The simplicity of the story and the theme of becoming your best self through love has always resonated with me. In life, the people we are most different from generally aren’t the people we are attracted to; but, in the world of cinema, a spoiled rich girl really can find something to love about a poor journalist with nothing to offer her but lessons on how to properly dunk a donut into a cup of coffee or hitch a ride from a complete stranger. There’s something so sweet about that notion, and it makes this charming little black and white screwball comedy impossible to resist. After years of countless rewatches it still never fails to tug at my heartstrings and make me see the world through a lens tinted with hope and optimism.
Ethan Gough is an Independent filmmaker and film critic pursuing his passion for cinema at Motion Picture Institute in Troy, Michigan this fall. He received the award for Best Live Action Short at the 2020 Kent County Teen Film Festival for his film Summer Days. He had two films in the 2022 Kent County Teen Film Festival, Bros Night and Alone. Ethan also written from Reel Rundown and Hub Pages.
A California trip that led to a hike into Mexico, an adventure to find Bigfoot, and a close call with a crime syndicate were just some of the stories shared at a recent WKTV Voices storytelling event.
WKTV Voices held its third public speaking event at Wyoming’s The Stray Café on Friday, May 6. Storytellers, Cody Dewindt, Sherryl Acey, John D. Gonzalez, Steve Zaagman and Timothy Kelly graced the stage to share their tales with cafégoers. Close to 20 people listened as the participants told them about some of their life experiences.
The WKTV Voices event was hosted by WKTV contributor John D. Gonzalez. Each speaker had about six minutes to share their unique and personal stories. The goal of the event is to reconnect us all in a shared storytelling experience.
“There’s been all sorts of stories short, long, sentimental, you know, funny and different things like that,” said The Stray Music Manager Hunter VanKlompenberg said. “And some people definitely try and put there like, the moral of at the end, and some people just kind of tell you what happened and that’s what their story is. And I enjoy both when they’re done right.”
Steve ZaagmanTimothy Kelly Sherryl Acey Cody DewindtThe storytellers
Dewindt, of Wyoming, was the first to speak, telling the crowd a comedic story about when he was a wedding DJ and had a close encounter with a local crime syndicate. Acey, also from Wyoming, was the second speaker, recounting a time she landed a big job and almost got in trouble because she was told she made a mistake (she approach the accusation head-on to find a solution). Gonzalez, of Comstock Park, spoke third, about a time when he was in Upper Penisula and a man brought him and his wife to a cottage to see bigfoot (he said he never saw him while there). Zaagman, of Byron Center, a former journalist, spoke fourth, sharing four unique stories about a snow globe, a woman losing her hearing, a child selling a rabbit and an organ. Kelly, of Grand Rapids, spoke last, talking about a time when he visited a friend in California and ended up going on a hike that led him to visit Mexico.
The storytellers had several things they wanted to impart to cafégoers from their tales of life. Some wanted people to have a good time while others wanted them to not give up and take the bull by the horns when challenges arise.
John D. Gonzalez, a WKTV contributing writer, was the host for the May 6 event. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
“So say yes more than no, and an opportunity comes, if you see an opportunity to do something, to tell a story – I just say just take the leap and do it. It’s so easy to say no, but I’m telling you the best parts of life are when you say yes. So say yes to the opportunity if some says tell a story because I truly believe everyone has a story,” Zaagman said.
To watch the performance and learn more about WKTV Voices, visit wktvvoices.org. The Stray Café is located at 4253 Division Ave S Suite A in Wyoming.
Spring cleaning is what many have been doing as the weather warms up to summer. Now the question is what to do with all that stuff?
The City of Wyoming will be hosting its annual Community Clean-Up event on June 4 at the Grand Rapids First parking lot.
Well the City of Wyoming will be helping out its residents once again with the return of its popular Community Clean-Up Day which is set for Saturday, June 4. The event will again take place in the parking lot of the Grand Rapids First, 2100 44th St. SW. It will open at 8 a.m. with participants encouraged to be in line by 1:30 p.m. to drop off items.
The traffic flow will have cars entering Grand Rapids First through the right lane of the eastbound 44th Street. Once in line, drivers should follow the directions to the northeast entrance off 44th Street.
An array of unwanted items will be accepted such as recyclables, scrap metals, and car batteries. Items NOT accepted are household hazardous waste; kitchen garbage; liquid latex paint; seal drums; liquid, biological, radioactive waste; propane tanks; refrigerants; and explosives.
Yard waste may be dropped off at the Yard Waste Drop-Off, which is located at 2600 Burlingame Ave. SW. The facility will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. The facility is also open 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. Yard waste should be sorted by leaves and grass and brush pile.
E. Martin Hennings (American, 1886–1956).
Two Summer Riders, c. 1930s. Oil on Canvas,
30 ¼ x 30 ¼ inches. Bank of America Collection.
At the Community Clean-Up event, there will be a fee for some items. While tires are $10 each, mattress or box springs are $15 each, tube and televisions that are 27 inches or smaller are $20, and tube televisions 27 inches or larger are $40.
To participate in the Community Clean-Up event, and to use the Yard Waste Drop-Off, residents must provide proof of residency which can be a photo ID, utility or credit card statement or bank statement within the last 90 days, a mortage, lease, or rental agreement, insurance policy, an issued license, or a Michigan vehicle registration.
The city started its Community Clean-Up in 2016 and it quickly became popular with the event averaging at least 300 vehicles coming through and disposing of items.
BISSELL Pet Foundation founder Cathy Bissell (Supplied)
The BISSELL Blocktail Party, West Michigan’s premier animal welfare fundraiser, is returning Tuesday, June 7. The last event in 2019 resulted in more than 1,000 guests — both human and canine — coming together to support homeless pets. Pet lovers and their four-legged friends are invited to this party with a purpose.
This year the event, which is from 6-9 p.m. at the East Grand Rapids track, will include live grilling with Celebrity Chef Paul Wahlberg of Wahlbergers. There will be adoptable pets from local shelters, including Labradors, Doodles, assorted puppies, and more. The popular silent auction is also returning with unique art and pet-themed packages.
Other attractions include DJ AB providing music, ArtPrize winner Chris LaPorte creating caricatures of furry friends, and even a specially created Blocktail IPA (I Prefer Adoption) beer.
“This year’s BISSELL Blocktail Party is going to be bigger and better than ever,” said Cathy Bissell, founder of the BISSELL Pet Foundation. “[The] Blocktail is BISSELL Pet Foundation’s primary fundraising event, providing critical support to give homeless pets a second chance. It wouldn’t be possible without the generous individuals who attend and sponsor the event.”
All of the proceeds will go directly to save homeless pets through grants from BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Besides a chance for fundraising, there’s good reason for celebration. In May, the BISSELL Pet Foundation announced a record number of adoptions for its National “Empty the Shelters” campaign. From May 2 to 15, more than 13,500 shelter pets in 45 states—approximately 6,035 cats and 7,469 dogs—were adopted through the event.
“Empty the Shelters” was created in 2016, and was originally hosted in just a few Michigan shelters. Since then, this event has grown to be BISSELL Pet Foundation’s most prominent program and the country’s largest funded adoption event. To date, “Empty the Shelters” has found homes for 96,068 pets and provided more than $7.6 million in direct funding to shelter partners.
“Right now, shelters are so full, and pets are experiencing longer stays,” Bissell said. “This is an expensive program for our small foundation, but it is a proven success. And we can’t turn our backs when we know we can save thousands of lives in one event.”
Tickets to the BISSELL Blocktail Party are available online for $100 per person and $50 for students with a valid student ID. Sponsors at $1,500 and above will receive tickets to the separate BISSELL Sponsor Party on June 6, which will have the talents of Lou Gramm and Asia featuring John Payne. Visit www.bissellblocktailparty.com for more details and to purchase tickets or be a sponsor for the event.
The USS Indianapolis sank on July 30, 1945 after being struck by two Japanese torpedoes. One of the sailors, Seaman 2nd Class George David Payne, was from Grand Rapids.
The Navy has officially changed the status of 13 sailors lost when the USS Indianapolis (CA 35) was sunk in 1945 from “unaccounted for” to “buried at sea,” Navy Casualty announced on May 27.
The change in status is the result of extensive research between Naval History and Heritage Command, Navy Casualty Office, the USS Indianapolis Survivors Association, the USS Indianapolis Legacy Organization, and the Chief Rick Stone and Family Charitable Foundation.
The announcement helps bring closure to the families of these sailors who lost their lives at the end of a secret mission which helped end World War II.
The USS Indianapolis sank on July 30, 1945, after being struck by two Japanese torpedoes.
The sailors whose status changed are:
Seaman 1st Class George Stanley Abbott – Bedford, Kentucky
Seaman 2nd Class Eugene Clifford Batson – Kansas City, Kansas
Gunner’s Mate 1st Class William Alexander Haynes – Homedale, Idaho
Seaman 2nd Class Albert Raymond Kelly – Cleveland, Ohio
Seaman 1st Class Albert Davis Lundgren – Washington, D.C.
Fireman 1st Class Ollie McHone – Mars Hill, Arkansas
Seaman 2nd Class George David Payne – Grand Rapids, Michigan
Storekeeper 3rd Class Alvin Wilder Rahn – Hamlet, North Carolina
Ship’s Cook 3rd Class Jose Antonio Saenz – Edinburg, Texas
Coxswain Charles Byrd Sparks – Birmingham, Alabama
Radioman 2nd Class Joseph Mason Strain – Creston, Iowa
SSML3 Angelo Anthony Sudano – Niles, Ohio
Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Floyd Ralph Wolfe – Turner, Oregon
Approximately 300 of the ship’s 1,195 Sailors went down with the ship, and some 900 men were set adrift. Only 316 survived. Due to administrative errors, many Sailors who were recovered from the ocean and buried at sea from responding vessels were misclassified as “missing in action “or “unaccounted for.”
According to Rick Stone, who previously served at NHHC, he initiated the USS Indianapolis Burial at Sea Project to determine if any Indianapolis casualties met this criteria. Following his retirement from government service, he established the Chief Rick Stone and Family Charitable Foundation to continue the project and located documentation proving the 13 Sailors were misclassified.
According to the foundation’s USS Indianapolis Burial at Sea Project web page, “recovering a lost sailor, giving their loved ones and family closure, is the greatest gift we can imagine and the greatest way to celebrate and thank the sailors who lost their lives aboard the USS Indianapolis.
“One of my favorite quotes is ‘Poor is the nation that has no heroes but shameful is the nation who, having heroes, forgets them,’” Stone said. “Our foundation will never forget the heroes of the USS Indianapolis and are proud of our role in helping 13 families learn that the Navy went to great lengths to honor them soon after their deaths.”
Capt. Robert McMahon, director of the Navy Casualty Office, said bringing closure to families of those lost at sea is a “solemn duty and obligation” he takes to heart.
“Nothing is more important to me than giving families that knowledge when the unthinkable happens,” he said. “No amount of time lessens the loss, however, if we can bring some certainty to loved ones, even seven decades later, we are keeping faith with those we lost.”
One of those family members, William Baxter, nephew of Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Wolfe, was notified April 26 of the change in status. Sailors from Naval Medical Readiness and Training Command Beaufort, South Carolina, arrived at his door with a certificate and flag to recognize Wolfe’s sacrifice.
Baxter, an Okatie, South Carolina, native, said while he did not know his uncle, “it’s nice to finally have some closure to what actually happened to [him]. Thank you all for going above and beyond for me and my family. I wasn’t expecting all of this, but thank you.”
Change of Topic: Tune in on Memorial Day to our special annual program involving the USS Silversides ceremony titled, “The Lost Boat Ceremony at the USS Silversides in Muskegon.”
That means it’s the unofficial start of summer. Who’s ready? I know I am.
Let’s take a look at some of things to do this weekend in my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Oh, and don’t forget the Grand Rapids Memorial Day Parade is at 10 a.m. Monday. More info at uvckc.org. The Wyoming ceremony is at 7 p.m. Monday. More information on the Facebook Event page.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. Spring Wildflower Walk at Blandford Nature Center
This is a great time to discover nature, and also learn more about our Michigan spring wildflowers, also known as spring ephemerals. This weekend you can check them out on a special wildflower walk from 1-2 p.m. Saturday (May 28) at Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave NW. According to the event page: “These flowers take advantage of the sun-lit and moisture-rich woodlands to bloom quickly and to go seed in order to ensure their survival until next year. Join Julie Batty, our Land Stewardship Manager, and she leads a walk along the trails of Blandford to seek out some of these flowers before the forest shades over for the summer and they disappear again until next spring.” Cost is $7 for members and $10 for non members. This is an outdoor event. More information on the Blandford Nature Facebook event page.
4. African Market Michigan in Kentwood
Have you been looking for an opportunity to taste authentic African food? This weekend check out African Market Michigan, which will be serving African food and selling African clothing/jewelry all weekend. The pop-up restaurant will be open from noon-5 p.m. Saturday-Monday (May 28-30) at The Social Suite and Rental, 5528 Division Ave S, in Kentwood. Don’t wait too late in the day because they could sell out before 5 p.m. Learn more on the Taste of Africa Michigan Facebook page.
3. Memorial Day Celebration at Berlin Raceway
It’s always a fun time at the Berlin Raceway in Marne. The racing continues this weekend with some special events, and fireworks! On the schedule is the second and final Money in the Bank qualifier for the Budweiser Super Late Models, plus a 50 Lap feature for the Model Coverall Service, Inc. Limited Late Models. On the track they’ll also have the Coors Light Sportsman and the Good Humor Mini Wedges. As always, kids 15 and under are free. Also, military, veterans and seniors 65+ are admitted free. Racing starts at 6:30 p.m. Learn more at berlinraceway.com.
2. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition
In case you have not heard, the Gerald R. Ford Museum has a special exhibition dedicated to artist Michelangelo, known for his famous fresco “the creation of man” and his work on the Sistine Chapel. With special expertise and care, the ceiling paintings from the Sistine Chapel have been reproduced with licensed high definition photos. They are on display now through Oct. 22. According to the Ford Museum website: “While visitors to the Vatican Museums in Rome can marvel at these frescoes only from afar, ‘Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition’ now offers the opportunity to observe these masterpieces close up, in the form of reproductions.” After centuries of use, the paintings in the Chapel had become covered in such a thick layer of dust and soot, according to press materials, “and as a result of this deterioration the brilliance of the original luminous colors had all but disappeared.” This exhibition brings an entirely new perspective to this work by Michelangelo and acts as a form of art in its own right. Learn more at https://chapelsistine.com/exhibits/grand-rapids/.
Grand Rapids’ oldest Farmers Market, operating since 1922, is back for another summer season. The Fulton Street Farmers Market features 118 outdoor booths and additional space for indoor booths. The market hosts an assortment of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, hand-crafted food items, and unique artisan products year-round. The summer season is underway now with expanded hours and days, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The Fulton Street Farmers Market is located at 1145 Fulton St. SE. Learn more at fultonstreetmarket.org. The Fulton Street Artisans Market opens June 12.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Japanese “Good Luck” flags are decorated with messages from family members, friends, and community members that wish victory, safety, and good luck for the soldier. (Supplied)
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) and OBON Society are in the process of returning another Yosegaki Hinomaru or Japanese “Good Luck” flag (circa 1939-1945) from the Museum’s Collections to its rightful family. OBON Society provides reconciliation between American and Japanese families through the return of personal items acquired during World War II.
Japanese “Good Luck” flags are decorated with messages from family members, friends and community members that wish victory, safety and good luck for the soldier. Through extensive research, the GRPM was able to connect with OBON Society to share high-resolution images of the flag for translation. Volunteer Japanese scholars interpret the messages, which can reveal the soldier’s origins, name and location of death. The information obtained from this particular flag in the Museum’s Collections allowed OBON Society to locate the deceased soldier’s niece, who is still living in Japan.
“We are creating a space for people who fought, suffered and grieved because of the war to enter in conversation and have the opportunity for healing and reconciliation,” said a spokesperson from OBON Society. “When news of our work travels around the world, we have witnessed the profound effect it can have on humanity.”
A Grand Rapids Public Museum staff member prepares the Japanese Good Luck flag for return to its family. (Supplied)
The flag is currently in the process of being returned to the soldier’s niece in Japan through OBON Society. The GRPM currently has possession of two more Japanese “Good Luck Flags,” which are logged in the Museum’s Collections database, accessible at grpmcollections.org. The GRPM has provided details about the remaining flags to OBON society, who will continue to search for the family members.
“The GRPM is honored to take care of these important heirlooms,” said Alex Forist, Chief Curator at the GRPM. “It is our hope they will be returned to families in Japan who may not have any other tangible connection to their loved ones who were killed in combat.”
Memorial Day is a national holiday that honors fallen soldiers. (pxhere.com)
While for many it is the “official start of summer,” Memorial Day is designed to honor those who have fallen while serving during a war.
It originally was designated for those who had fallen during the Civil War and was observed only on May 30. However the custom grew and by the 19th Century, many communities across the country had Memorial Day celebrations. In 1971, the federal government declared “Memorial Day” a national holiday to be celebrated the last Monday of the month of May. There was a splitting of ceremonies, with some municipalities choosing to celebrate on the last Monday of May while others deciding to keep with the traditional May 30 for Memorial Day activities.
Due to leap years and calendar configurations, every once in awhile, Memorial Day lands on May 30, which is what has happened for 2022. So there will be several Memorial Day events honoring fallen heroes throughout West Michigan.
Since it is a national holiday, government offices such as Kent County, the City of Kentwood, and the City of Wyoming, will be closed.
Kentwood Memorial Day Parade
Wreaths are laid during the Kentwood Memorial Day ceremony.
The D.W. Cassard Post, along with the Amvets Post, will host a parade in Kentwood at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 30. The parade kicks off from the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), near the corner of 48th Street and Eastern Avenue. From there, it will head west down 48th Street to Kentwood’s Veteran’s Memorial Park, located in front of the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. At the park, there will be a ceremony including the laying of the five wreaths, one for each of the branches of military service: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
WKTV will be taping the Kentwood parade and service which is scheduled to air at 12:30 and 8 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and on wktv.org.
Wyoming Memorial Day Program
The City of Wyoming will be hosting its annual Memorial Day program Monday, May 30, from 7 – 8 p.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Garden, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW. (This is located in front of the Wyoming Department of Public Safety building.)
The City of Wyoming will host its Memorial Day program at Veteran’s Memorial Garden. (Photo by Harriet Sturim)
Mayor Jack Poll will emcee and the Lee High School band is scheduled to perform. This year’s guest speaker will be Sean Moriarty. Moriarty is currently a student at Grand Valley State University pursing a degree in Applied Food and Nutrition from the College of Health Professions.
Moriarty enrolled at GVSU after serving eight years of active duty with the United States Coast Guard, where he was a medical corpsman. He sailed onboard the CGC Campbell in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, performing anti-terrorism duties with the Naval Support Activity in Manama, Bahrain, and providing clinical and emergency services at U.S. Coast Guard Base Boston in Massachusetts.
After coming to Michigan, Moriarty enlisted with the Air National Guard as a public affairs specialist where he currently serves in Battle Creek. He is accompanied by his wife, Justine, who is also currently enlisted with the U.S. Coast Guard in Grand Haven.
WKTV will be taping the Memorial Day program, which will air at 8:30 p.m. on Comcast Channel 25 and on wktv.org.
Other Memorial Day programs
The United States Air Force Band from Washington, D.C. has produced two solemn videos to honor the nation’s fallen heroes this Memorial Day. The first video features the Ceremonial Brass, one of the Band’s six ensembles, performing “Goin’ Home,” with narration by General Charles Q. Brown, Jr., Chief of Staff of the Air Force. WKTV will air the “Goin’ Home” video at several times on Memorial Day. Those times are 9:28 a.m., 10:30 a.m, 12:27 p.m., 3:57 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 10:28 p.m.
The second video features stunning aerial visuals of the bugler, Technical Sgt. Jason Covey, as he solemnly performs “Taps” at Culpeper National Cemetery in Culpeper, Virginia. The unique perspective provided by the drone reveals the scope of sacrifice made by our military members over countless generations. The “Taps” video will air 9:55 a.m., 11:03 a.m., 1 p.m., 7:43 p.m., 9:11 p.m., and 12:08 a.m.
Both programs may be seen on the Comcast Channel 25 or on wktv.org.
Sunday Night Funnies popular Kingpin of Comedy competition starts back on Sunday, June 5. (SNF)
Starting Sunday, June 5, and running through Sunday, Oct. 9, the Sunday Night Funnies stand-up comedy show will hold its fourth annual standup comedy competition the Kingpin of Comedy at The Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
“This is a blatant rip-off of the Funniest Person in Grand Rapids contest that Dr. Grins use to run”, says Brian B. (Brian Borbot), creator & MC of the Sunday Night Funnies. Brian is referring to the successful annual event at Dr. Grins the former comedy club that was inside The B.O.B. downtown Grand Rapids.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan I thought it deserved its own stand-up comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title the funniest person in Wyoming!” he said.
Besides the $500 cash there are also prizes from Wyoming businesses Spectrum Entertainment Complex (where the event is hosted) along with their next-door neighbor Craig’s Cruisers, live entertainment venue the Listening Room and Gilda’s Club’s LaughFest. The winner will also receive a Kingpin bowling pin trophy, a customized bowling shirt, and the opportunity to close at the Sunday Night Funnies LaughFest show in 2023. The total prize package is close to $1,000 in value! There will also a presentation from the Mayor of Wyoming declaring the winner the funniest person in town!
“Great idea, I’m on board with that,” said Spectrum Lanes Jr. Partner/Operations Mike Eaton.
A view of a previous City of Kentwood Food Truck Festival. (WKTYV/2018)
The City of Kentwood and GR8 Food Trucks will once again kick off the summer season with the annual Food Truck Festival.
The Kick-Off to Summer Food Truck Festival is set for Saturday, June 4 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. in the parking lot of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard. L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. The popular community event offers free admission and will feature 30 food trucks, live music and beer. There will also be community booths for attendees to explore. Another food truck festival will celebrate the end of the summer season on Sept. 17.
This year’s trucks offer a wide variety of cuisines, from pizza and burgers to traditional Hispanic and Filipino recipes. Whether you’re looking to snack on a soft pretzel, enjoy a barbecue dinner or satisfy your sweet tooth with a frozen treat, the festival has options for every appetite.
“We’re excited to welcome the community back to this popular event, now featuring more food trucks than ever before,” said Kentwood Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo. “GR8 Food Trucks and our local vendors and musicians have been phenomenal partners and we encourage everyone to come out and enjoy this fun-for-all-ages event.”
Saladino Smoke will be one of 30 trucks at the June 4 event. (supplied)
Live music will start at 11 a.m. with Downtown Authority, followed by DJ Snax, Molly and the Azz-Izz Band. A beer tent featuring local craft beer favorites will be open 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
“Food trucks are the ultimate way to support local small business owners in a fun and relaxing outdoor environment,” said GR8 Food Trucks President Alan Tomlinson. “Kentwood’s Food Truck Festival gives residents an opportunity to build community while enjoying great food.”
This year’s diamond sponsors are Macatawa Bank and NN Mobile Solutions. While entry to the festival is free, cost for food and beverages varies by vendor.
Volunteers are needed for the event. Find more information about the Kick-Off to Summer Food Truck Festival and sign up to volunteer at kentwood.us/SummerFoodTruckFestival.
Now all fire and police departments in Kent County will be on the same countywide digital radio system for emergencies. (pxhere.com)
The Kent County Dispatch Authority, Kent County Sheriff’s Office and Kent County Fire Chiefs Association announced the final users of the new countywide digital radio system for police, fire and emergency response personnel have transitioned to the system.
The final users are comprised of 28 fire departments across Kent County that utilize fire paging to alert emergency responders. Many of the county’s fire departments serve rural areas, where pagers provide clearer and more reliable communications. The Kent County Dispatch Authority, or KCDA, which led the radio system project, purchased the fire pagers in 2018 through a voter-approved surcharge. The pagers were used on the old system before they recently were reprogrammed by the Kent County Sheriff’s Office to the new system. The new radio system enables first responders to better communicate between agencies, ultimately saving lives, property and time.
“While the radio system has been operational for more than a year and we have already transitioned nearly 5,000 radios, transitioning the fire pagers was the final step in ensuring all of our public safety agencies in Kent County have clear and reliable communications,” said Kent County Dispatch Authority Chairman Mark Herald.
The $25.7 million radio system – funded by the 2016 voter-approved surcharge – went live in December 2020, with the Grand Rapids Police and Fire departments and Kent County Sheriff’s Office transitioning to the system in early 2021.
The 800-megahertz, or MHz, radio system replaces an outdated analog system and joins the statewide radio system operated by the Michigan Public Safety Communication System that allows coordination between local, state and federal agencies. The Kent County system is comprised of 12 transmission sites and two 911 dispatch centers: Kent County and Grand Rapids. It was the result of nearly four years of planning, site acquisition, construction, equipment installation and testing.
“The Kent County Sheriff’s Office worked closely with these 28 fire departments to provide technical support and other assistance to ensure a smooth transition,” Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young said. “Adding these agencies to the new radio system enhances the safety of our residents and first responders.”
The KCDA is a multi-jurisdictional and multi-disciplinary board created by Kent County and the cities of Grand Rapids, Grandville, Walker and Wyoming to enhance 911 communication services in the county.
“These pagers are critical to alerting firefighters of calls for service and ensuring response activities are coordinated between agencies,” said Kent County Fire Chiefs Association President Sam Peterson. “We are grateful to the Kent County Dispatch Authority and Kent County Sheriff’s Office for their partnership in this important project.”
Whorled won the March Battle of the Bands at The Stray. (courtesy)
Playing a style of music they call “World folk” has paid off for Whorled.
The critical praise has been huge, and the band won a Battle of the Bands in March at The Stray Café in Grand Rapids.
Local Spins recently described Whorled (pronounced “world”) as follows:
“The world folk band stole the stage with a set that was less of a performance and more of an experience. Many of its songs weaved through various genres — starting as an Irish highland tune, then transitioning to a traditional Japanese song and ending with a bluegrass swing.”
That makes sense when you consider the trio draws from celtic, gypsy jazz, Brazilian, bluegrass and classical influences, said Thom Jayne of Whorled. The group is known for playing a variety of instruments, including violin, accordion, guitar, banjo, whistles, and occasionally a didgeridoo, which is a wind instrument.
The band also consists of multi-instrumentalist Keala Venema and accordionist Marika Venema.
Jayne answered a few questions from WKTV.
WKTV Journal: How did you come up with your band’s name?
Jayne: The name signifies the diverse backgrounds and musical influences that each of us bring to create our signature “Whorled” sound.
WKTV: When did you form?
Jayne: 2020. We formed during the Covid period and have only been playing out in public during the past year.
WKTV: What do you hope to accomplish with your music?
Jayne: To create a unique sound that is both true to the traditions that we draw from and also to integrate them together in fresh ways.
WKTV: Has it been easy or difficult to break into the West Michigan music scene?
Jayne: We’re just starting out, so still finding out.
WKTV: What makes you stand out, outside of playing all those instruments?
Jayne: We have a strictly Celtic set, but most of our material features a variety of styles sprinkled with spontaneous improvisation so that no two Whorled shows are the same. Our show is high-energy, good-feeling, and crowd-interactive.
Upcoming Performances:
We’re playing at Meijer Gardens on July 12, opening for the Accidentals at the Saugatuck Jump into Summer Festival on June 17, and are being featured in the Sparta Irish Music Festival on August 12-13.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Kool Breze is part of the kick off to Food Truck season in West Michigan, which begins with tonight’s first of Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids. (supplied)
Variety. Aromas. Excitement.
Food trucks and festivals make the perfect match, just like mustard on a hot dog. (Let’s not talk about ketchup.)
Food truck owners in 2022 are more than county fair concessionaires, offering fries, hot dogs and cotton candy. Today foodies will find gourmet pretzels, mouthwatering BBQ, burritos, pizza, and on and on.
What’s not to love?
“People like variety. People love to meet and greet and grab a bite to eat,” said Steven McGhee of the Kool Breze food truck with a menu of slushies, soft serve ice cream and a variety of decadent desserts.
Kool Breze is part of the kick off to Food Truck season in West Michigan, which begins with tonight’s first of Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids. The series will continue every Friday night through Sept. 2.
See WKTV’s list below of local Food Truck events. Know more? Email me: michigangonzo@gmail.com.
On Sunday, the Grand Rapids Food Truck Association (GRFTA) partnered with Downtown Grand Rapids, GR8 Food Trucks and others to put together Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival, a fourth-year event making its debut at Calder Plaza. It runs from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday, May 22.
Waffle Nachos! Get them this Friday at GR8 Food Truck Fridays and Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival at Calder Plaza.Taste Buds- Kitchen Connects, LLC (John D. Gonzalez)
It will be a grand celebration, said organizers, because food trucks are so much fun.
“ Food trucks are a culture,” said Rock Dandeneau, owner of Pressed In Time Food Truck and president of GRFTA.
“Many large cities have grown the street food scene into a start or incubator for brick and mortar. It is a way to test out foods and concepts. It also is a great way to start a small business and understand the logistics of running a business.”
Overall, he said “food trucks are artistic in nature from its concept, menu offerings and even art designs on the trucks.”
GRFTA, which formed in 2016, is a great resource for those who want to get into the business or just find out where to find food trucks all over the area.
“(We) formed to improve business conditions for food trucks, promote the economic contributions of the food truck industry to the region,” said Lauren D’Angelo, Vice President, GRFTA.
“We also try to provide educational resources to food trucks and we provide a mechanism of education and exchange information between food truck owners.”
In fact, they have worked with MSU extension to put together a food truck startup course, which is now available online.
Each Food Truck has a story, too.
Take Saladino Smoke, a BBQ food truck owned by Mike and Katie Saladino, for example.
Saladino Smise will be part of the May 22 Roll ‘N Out Food Truck Fest. (supplied)
In order to spend more time with their two boys (Joey and Anthony) during those busy school years, they started cooking for their teammates and families before games and matches.
“One thing led to another and we ended up running the high school concession stands for a number of years,” they said.
It became a full time job for the family.
“We both lost our jobs during the pandemic and thankfully our food truck business saved us,” Katie said.
They BBQ the “old school way” – low and slow with traditional wood fired pits and grills, using oak, cherry, apple and mesquite woods.
”We are family driven and committed to delivering the best quality, fun filled event for you,” they said.
It’s the 6th season of Food Truck Fridays at Riverside Park, north of downtown Grand Rapids. You can see the event from the road. It is located by the Guild St. entrance. This grassroots event has continued to thrive year after year. It offers a great blend of fan favorites as well as plenty of new food trucks for everyone to try. Organizers also have increased the amount of offerings to help with lines and will have a larger footprint to provide more social distancing.
New features include a Frequent Fridays Card that will offer you the chance to win prizes based on how many FTF you frequent.
The Grand Rapids Food Truck Association (GRFTA), will host the 4th annual Roll’N Out Food Truck Fest on Sunday, May 22nd on Ottawa Avenue and Calder Plaza. Up to 38 food trucks and trailers will participate, making the event one of Grand Rapids’ largest food truck rallys.
In addition to the food trucks lining both sides of Ottawa Avenue , the 4th annual Roll’N Out Food Truck Fest will feature:
• Picnic space in Calder Plaza (bring a blanket to enjoy food truck fare and music!)
• Food Truck Certificate Giveaways leading up to the event.
• Entertainment from the Calder Plaza stage.
• Community Partner areas providing complimentary family-friendly activities.
Back for its 5th year, located on the campus of Kentwood City Hall and the Kent District Library – Richard L. Root/Kentwood Branch. Kentwood’s Food Truck Festival is one of West Michigan’s largest food truck events. It features 20-30 different food trucks and live music all day, as well as a beer tent featuring many local favorites.
Los Jalapenos is a food trailer serving authentic Mexican cuisine. Will be at Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival (supplied)
Food Truck Frenzy!June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Sparta’s Town Square in Sparta;
Thursdays on the Square is hosting Food Truck Frenzy. The Facebook page plans to update the food trucks coming, their menus and other details like live bands and more.
Food trucks take over the West Side with the help of Stockbridge Business Association and the Bridge St. Market. The corner lot of Bridge St and Stocking/Lexington Ave will play host to four food trucks every Friday beginning June 10.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Two major events are planning for local foodies who love a good food truck.
Today begins Food Truck Friday at Riverside Park, and then Sunday is the first time Calder Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids will host Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival.
Both of those events make it into my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal. What else is going on this weekend? Read on!
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. LMCU Ballpark Carnival
Nothing says summer like a carnival. Our friends at Skerbeck Entertainment Group always do a great job. You’ll find one today through Sunday atLMCU Ballpark in Comstock Park. More details by clicking here. By the way, don’t forget that the Whitecaps are in action, too. Play ball! More details at whitecapsbaseball.com.
Waffle Nachos! Get them this Friday at GR8 Food Truck Fridays and Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival at Calder Plaza.Taste Buds- Kitchen Connects, LLC (John D. Gonzalez)
4. Food Trucks
As I mentioned, it’s a busy weekend for food truck lovers as two major events take place.
Food Truck Fridays, 5-9 p.m. this summer beginning May 20 through Sept. 2 at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids features anywhere from 12-17 trucks each week. In its 6th season on the north side of Grand Rapids you can expect some of the area’s best-loved food trucks, as well as new ones, too. New this year is a Frequent Fridays Card that will offer you the chance to win prizes based on how many FTF you frequent. More details at https://www.facebook.com/GR8FoodTruckFridays/.
Roll’N Out Food Truck Festival, 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. Sunday (May 22) at Calder Plaza in Grand Rapids, will feature up to 38 food trucks and trailers, making the event one of Grand Rapids’ largest food truck rallys. Music, entertainment, giveaways and a picnic area (bring your blankets) will make this event a lot of fun. More details at https://www.facebook.com/events/1124456104989269.
WWE Smackdown is at 7:45 p.m. Friday (May 20). Raw Tag Team Champions RK Bro take on Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos, in a Tag Team Title Unification Match. Of course, that’s just the highlight. It’s always a full card of entertainment.
All Star Legends of Hip Hop, with Juvenile, Scarface, Trina, MJG, Eightball, Trick Daddy, and DJ Quik, perform at 8 p.m. Saturday (May 21). It’s time to go Old School!
2. ALEgan Beer BBQ and Blues Fest
Looking for a beer and blues festival this weekend? The ALEgan Beer and Blues Fest features five BBQ vendors and live blues music from 2-7 p.m. Saturday (May 21) at the Allegan County Fairgrounds. Tickets are $45, which gives you 15 tickets for 4 oz. beer samples and five tickets for food samples. All festival attendees must be 21 or older to enter. More info at https://aleganbeerbbqandbluesfest.rsvpify.com/.
The breweries:
Tantrick Brewing Co. (Allegan, MI)
Schaendorf Brewing Co (featured in a Collaboration Brew with Tantrick Brewing Co.)
Waypost (Fennville)
OpenRoad Brewery (Wayland)
Rusty Rocket (Pullman)
Paw Paw Brewing Co. (Paw Paw)
Burzurk Brewing Company (Grand Haven)
Murray St. Brewing (Mattawan)
Presidential Brewing (Portage)
One Well Brewery (Kalamazoo)
Bier Distillery (Comstock Park)
Distant Whistle (Vicksburg)
Handmap Brewing (Battle Creek)
Three Blondes (South Haven)
Final Gravity (Decatur)
Harbor Light (South Haven)
Amy Sherman, John Sinkevics, and John Gonzalez. (John Gonzalez)
1.Local Spins Fest
Have you had a chance to attend one of the shows this week to celebrate the 10th anniversary of LocalSpins.com? We did a story on founder John Sinkevics earlier this week on WKTV Journal with a list of his shows and a special Local Spinsation Ale at Rockford Brewing Company.
FRIDAY, MAY 20 (Early Show) – Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill: Blues Night with Jake Kershaw and Hank Mowery & The Hawktones, 7 p.m., $10, tickets available online here.
FRIDAY, MAY 20 (Late Show) – The Intersection: Desmond Jones and The Legal Immigrants at Elevation, 9 p.m., $10, tickets on sale now at sectionlive.com.
SATURDAY, MAY 21 – LOCAL SPINS FEST AT STUDIO PARK (Downtown Grand Rapids)
2 p.m. – Doors open
3 p.m. – DJ SuperDre
4 p.m. – Cabildo
5 p.m. – Hannah Rose Graves
6 p.m. – Full Cord
7 p.m. – Public Access (wsg Emilee Petersmark of The Crane Wives)
8:30 p.m. – The Accidentals
Refreshments, merchandise and sponsor booths will be part of the event. General admission tickets are$20 and on sale now at listeningroomgr.com.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Photo from the Grand Rapids Public Museum Collections
This photo is from the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s digital collections and depicts a carousel, which compared to other photos, is probably one that once stood at Ramona Park (now the Gaslight Village area in East Grand Rapids.) The Ramona Park carousel was owned by the McElwee brothers and installed in 1909 at the park. Interestingly, one of the organs from the carousel, called Big Bertha, is located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort restaurant.
We selected this picture in honor of the restoration of the Grand rapids Public Museum’s 1928 Spillman Carousel. The nearly 100-year-old artifact has been undergoing a major renovation which began in 2017, requiring the Carousel to be dismantled and rebuilt. Starting on Wednesday, May 25, the Spillman Carousel will once again be operating in the Cook Carousel Pavilion located at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. While the carousel will be operational, restoration work will continue on carousel. To follow the restoration process, click here.
Works from the Miner S. and Mary Ann Keeler Collection will be featured in an exhibit at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. (supplied)
The Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) has opened An Extraordinary Legacy: The Miner S. and Mary Ann Keeler Collection, an exhibition of 65 works of modern and contemporary art at GRAM. Running through Oct. 8, the exhibition celebrates the transformative gift of art given to the given to the Museum from the Keeler Collection between 1976 and 2021, and includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints.
“The Grand Rapids Art Museum is thrilled to celebrate the profound impact of Miner and Mary Ann Keeler on the Museum, and on the city of Grand Rapids, with An Extraordinary Legacy,” said GRAM Advancement Director Elly Barnette-Dawson. “From its inception, the Museum’s permanent collection has grown primarily through the generosity of individual donors. This dynamic gift from the Keelers ensures our community has access to these cherished works of art for generations to come.”
The Keelers’ artistic legacy is built upon their civic and institutional involvement, as well as their personal art collecting. Miner and Mary Ann Keeler had the vision to make art accessible to all in Grand Rapids and were pivotal supporters of downtown revitalization and many local cultural organizations. The couple was central to bringing Alexander Calder’s sculpture, La Grande Vitesse, to downtown Grand Rapids in 1969, as well as the kinetic sculpture Motu Viget, by Mark di Suvero in 1977, and Alexis Smith’s The Grand to DeVos Hall in 1983.
An Extraordinary Legacy is focused on artists who emerged as artistic leaders between 1940 and 1990, a vibrant period in American and European art. The artists represented in the exhibition include Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Diego Rivera, Alexander Calder, Robert Rauschenberg, Louise Nevelson, Mark di Suvero, Andy Warhol, Janet Fish, and Alexis Smith.
An Extraordinary Legacy is divided into three sections: Sculpture and Sculptors’ Works on Paper explores the significance of sculpture and sculptors in the Keelers’ lives and advocacy. European Modern Masters shares works that illuminate important art historical movements including Fauvism, Cubism, Surrealism, and Expressionism. American Art: From Representation to Abstraction (and Back Again) spans the years 1921 to 1995, focusing on the dynamic tension between realism and abstraction in American art.
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.
Currently there is a need for foster families in West Michigan. (pxhere.com)
According to Michigan Health and Human Services, there are about 13,000 children in foster care with at least another 300 who are still in need of an adoptive family.
The need for more foster homes always exists, according to representatives of the local child welfare nonprofit D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s. Because the need is great, this May, which is National Foster Care Awareness Month, D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s along with others organizations that are part of the Foster Kent Kids are hosting educational workshops to help residents learn more about how they can help fight a crisis-level need for fostering.
“We are at a critical juncture in Grand Rapids for youth in need of stable foster home environments,” said D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s President and CEO Mary Muliett. “Simply put, we are in a crisis. We are in desperate need for foster homes, and we home the community will take the opportunity during Foster Awareness Month to explore this life-saving gesture.”
The main need? Providing temporary shelter for teens who are caught up in the middle of the placement process. For some teens, they wait at the agency all day until placement specialists can find a temporary shelter.
As a way to increase general awareness of the need, Foster Kent Kids workshops are designed to help potential foster families learn more about fostering.
This Sunday, May 22, Foster Kent Kids will host the program “Stand for Teens” at the Wyoming High School cafeteria, 1350 Prairie Parkway SW. The program is from 4 – 6 p.m. and will include panelists such as a foster care youth, adoptive parents and school administration. Through their discussion, the panel will share the lessons, challenges, and rewards of their foster experiences.
On Wednesday, May 25, will be the Zoom program “The Realities of Foster Care.” This one-hour session, which starts at noon, will be led by Rachael Aday, a foster parent recruitment and licensing specialist in Kent County. Aday is known for her passion for providing support and advocacy to relative and community foster homes. She will interview foster parents Josh and Lea Sparks to share their experience in fostering. To register for the zoom program click here.
Both of these programs are free. To register for an event or to learn more about how to foster, individuals can visit www.fosterkentkids.care.
Also to encourage adults to consider fostering, D.A. Blodgett is offering a $245 monthly stipend for each bed made available to a child awaiting a more stable placement. In additional to the monthly stipend, the organization will offer $100 per day when a child is in a home. Along with the payment will be personalized training and support from the organization.
At this time, the organization is seeking volunteers to step up and provide placement for youth ages 12 and older for a few weeks while their next placement is being identified.
D.A. Blodgett also offers a free monthly foster care information meeting, held from 6-7:30pm the second Monday of the month at D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s, 804 Leonard Street N.E., Grand Rapids.
West Michigan foodies looking for an authentic taste of Mexico can enjoy the “Olé to Molé” festival on Saturday and Sunday, May 21 and 22.
A variety of local restaurants will offer their own twist on a sauce sometimes called “Mexico’s national dish.” Participants can sample each restaurant’s offering by visiting one, a few, or all of the locations between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. each day, then vote for their favorite using a provided QR code. Pricing and availability of samples varies by location.
Molé is a sauce traditional to Mexican cuisine that typically includes a variety of chili peppers, nuts, and spices. It is often served as an accompaniment or marinade for chicken or other meats.
The nine restaurants participating in the multi-site event are all located along the South Division corridor between Hall Street and 28thStreet. They include:
Agave Sports Lounge, 2053 Division Ave South
El Globo, 2019 Division Ave South
Las Rocas, 2106 Division Ave South
La Vencedora, 1961 Division Ave South
Los Dos Amigos, 1642 Division Ave South
Mi Tierra, 2300 Division Ave South
Restaurante Cancún, 2140 Division Ave South
Tacos Yanga, 1338 Division Ave South
Tres Mangos, 2023 Division Ave South
Parking is available in the City of Grand Rapids Burton Heights lot, located just behind El Globo and Tres Mangos on the west side of Division Avenue, south of Burton. Easy transportation for the event up and down Division Avenue is available on The Rapid’s Silver Line or Route 1.
Funding for the festival comes from the Burton Heights Business Association, the Grand Rapids Office of Special Events, and the Grand Rapids Office of Equity & Inclusion.
Questions about the event may be directed to Angelica Velásquez, president of the Burton Heights Business Association, atlacasadelacobija@gmail.com or 616.617.4400. Media inquiries may be directed to Jon Shaner at The Salvation Army Kroc Center, jon.shaner@usc.salvationarmy.org or 616.401.9835.
The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) is an essential senior resource for a nine-county region that includes Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties. We work to connect seniors, family caregivers, and adults with disabilities to resources that help them to live independently. This includes programs for long term care services and supports to help make this independence possible.
MI Choice Medicaid Waiver is one of these programs. It provides person-centered care that empowers individuals to age-in-place in their own home rather than in a facility. Ongoing services through the program include personal care, housekeeping, meals, respite, and transportation. In an initial assessment, a supports coordinator is able to truly get to know an individual, coordinate their services, and connect them to partner agencies and community resources. Supports coordinators do more than oversee an individual’s care, they become their advocate, making sure their needs are met. Sometimes, just having someone in their corner cheering them on can be a driving force for a person’s confidence in maintaining their independence at home.
Recently, the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan received a NCQA Accreditation of Case Management for Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) for the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver program. This three-year accreditation is from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), a nonprofit organization that issues accreditation, certifications, and recognition programs based upon measurement, transparency, and accountability to highlight top performers and drive improvement. Earning NCQA’s Accreditation of Case Management for LTSS demonstrates that an organization is dedicated to coordinating the delivery of care in a person-centered and integrated manner to help individuals function optimally in their preferred setting.
When asked about this accreditation for the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, AAAWM Care Management Services Director Suzanne Filby-Clark explained, “We’re proud of our agency and staff as the preparation for this accreditation lasted approximately 12 months. The agency performed gap analysis to determine tasks, work groups were formed to seek clinical input, policies and procedures were written to align with the requirements, and all of the necessary documentation was notated and organized for submission. This NCQA accreditation shows our partners, participants, and community members prioritize and provide high quality care and services.”
The NCQA accreditation reinforces the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s commitment to improve the health outcomes of our patient population and ensure delivery of person-centered care. To learn more about the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver program and other resources for aging in place, reach out to the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s Information and Assistance team at (616) 456-5664.
About the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan helps older adults and individuals with disabilities remain independent and provides support and education to caregivers in Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola counties. You can visit www.aaawm.org to learn about our programs and services and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AreaAgencyonAging
About NCQA
NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQA’s Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care. NCQA’s website (ncqa.org) contains information to help consumers, employers and others make more-informed health care choices. NCQA can be found online at ncqa.org, on Twitter @ncqa, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NCQA.org and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/ncqa.
Amy Sherman, John Sinkevics, and John Gonzalez. (John Gonzalez)
Ten years ago, John Sinkevics took a leap of faith.
As the former music critic for The Grand Rapids Press, he knew there was a “robust” music scene in West Michigan, and he also knew he had the connections, credibility and drive to build a website dedicated to music news, interviews, album releases and concert coverage.
Sinkevics, who is based in Rockford, and also performs with his band the Honeytones with another Press alum, former religion editor and features writer Charley Honey, said starting the website was a pretty scary endeavor.
“When I started this it was like jumping off a cliff,” he said on our radio show and podcast Behind the Mitten, which aired this weekend. (Listen to the whole show below or here.)
But he also had support from the local music community, including musicians and venues such as Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill and The Intersection. “They spurred me on,” he said.
It was the scene’s quality of music that also made him confident he could start something new in West Michigan.
“I knew this music scene was a robust scene. It was growing. It had incredible talent from Traverse City to Kalamazoo to the Lakeshore to Grand Rapids, and it really felt good. I knew there was something happening here that needed to be covered.”
It didn’t take long before he was hiring photographers, freelance writers and other journalists to help him out.
The line up for the celebration. (John Gonzalez)
“Before you knew I was careening along at 60-70 hours a week, just making it happen. But because there was so much to cover and there was so much beautiful music being made here that it paid off in the long run.”
The pandemic changed things for musicians, obviously, who didn’t have venues or crowds to support them. That also had an impact on publications like Local Spins.
“A lot of readers stepped up and before you knew it I could still keep things rolling, and we found ways to cover the albums that were being released,” he said. “Musicians didn’t stop, they just couldn’t perform live.
“Now we’ve reached that 10-year milestone…, I’m ready to celebrate.”
In addition to the series of upcoming concerts, Local Spins has special merchandise to commemorate the anniversary and a collaboration beer release with Rockford Brewing Company called the Local Spinsation Ale. It’s on tap now.
Local Spins Fest concerts are through May 21. Details provided by LocalSpins.com:
• TUESDAY, MAY 17 – Listening Room: A special Local Spins edition of “Songtellers, Stories & Songs” hosted by Nicholas James Thomasma with rock multi-instrumentalist Patty PerShayla, hip hop cellist Jordan Hamilton, punk rock guitarist Julio Gomez and singer-songwriter Eric Engblade, 7 p.m., $10, tickets on sale here.
• WEDNESDAY, MAY 18 – SpeakEZ Lounge: Earth Radio and the return of The Concussions, 8 p.m., free. Donations accepted.
• THURSDAY, MAY 19 – The Pyramid Scheme: Local Spins 10th Anniversary Hip Hop Showcase with Les Creatif, J. Rob & Bedrock and Wuzee & Samil, 8 p.m., $8 advance, available online here.
• FRIDAY, MAY 20 (Early Show) – Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill: Blues Night with Jake Kershaw and Hank Mowery & The Hawktones, 7 p.m., $10, tickets available online here.
• FRIDAY, MAY 20 (Late Show) – The Intersection: Desmond Jones and The Legal Immigrants at Elevation, 9 p.m., $10, tickets on sale now at sectionlive.com.
• SATURDAY, MAY 21 – LOCAL SPINS FEST AT STUDIO PARK (Downtown Grand Rapids)
2 p.m. – Doors open
3 p.m. – DJ SuperDre
4 p.m. – Cabildo
5 p.m. – Hannah Rose Graves
6 p.m. – Full Cord
7 p.m. – Public Access (wsg Emilee Petersmark of The Crane Wives)
8:30 p.m. – The Accidentals
Refreshments, merchandise and sponsor booths will be part of the event. General admission tickets are just $20 and on sale now at listeningroomgr.com.
Behind the Mitten
Listen to me and co-host Amy Sherman talk to John Sinkevics about his 10-year anniversary, as well the summer outdoor music concert season across West Michigan. We also learn more about Rockford Brewing Company through general manager Matt Valleau.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Gold Star father, John Burri, of Wyoming, poses in front of the Blue Star and Gold Star memorials. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
More than 100 people gathered at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids this past Saturday for the Dedication Ceremony of Blue Star and Gold Star Memorial Markers to honor servicemen and women along with families that have lost loved ones who served.
In addition to hosting the event, the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids and the Kent Garden Club worked together on the project. U.S. Army and Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids Member Council President Corporal Robert Troost and former Kent Garden Club President Kathy Wolverton played vital roles in bringing it all together. The two star memorials, one blue and one gold, were placed in a new memorial garden space to give veterans and visitors a place to reflect and meditate.
“I thought the display was a beautiful gathering of people coming together to not only honor those who have served but to dedicate this special place,” said Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss. “You know this home, the veterans home, has a rich history here in our city and to see this addition is just really special.”
The Blue Star and Gold Star Memorials at the Grand Rapids’ Home for Veterans (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss next to the new memorials. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Kent Garden Club member and program co-chair Joan Tolley
Veterans and the community came out for the dedication. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Community members came out to celebrate the new Blue Star and Gold Star memorials. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Union High School JROTC Color Guard retiring colors. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
Mayor Bliss delivered remarks from a stage in front of veterans and Gold Star families. She was joined by representatives for Congressman Peter Meijer and State Senator Winnie Brinks, Kent Garden Club organizers and retired military officers. Congressman Peter Meijer detonated an American flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol building on September 11, 2021. District Director of Senator Winnie Brinks office Kate Kooyman revealed that the Grand Rapids Veterans Home will receive nearly $6.5 million for operating costs and $200,000 for upgraded security as a part of a budget passed by the Senate for the first phase of the upcoming fiscal year.
The ceremony also included Soloist Brandon Harris and the Northview High School Band giving a rendition of the national anthem, in addition to playing taps, and the Union High School JROTC Color Guard presenting and retiring colors.
Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce member Kristin Ruther serves as the first vice president of the Kent Garden Club. (WKTV/Aaron Robins)
“I say congratulations to the Blue Star and Gold Star garden club, to all the family members, to all the leadership,” said (retired) Major General Gregory Vadnais. “Thank you for what you do, it’s important work. It keeps it in the conscious of American communities, that’s what we need to do.”
Gold Star father and Wyoming resident John Burri, who lost his son Eric Todd Burri on June 7, 2005, while serving in Iraq, couldn’t help but be brought to tears during the ceremony. Burri shared that as a parent, Gold Star families, which are families who have lost an immediate family member while in active service, are always worried about our heroes being forgotten, adding that the dedication of the Gold Star reaffirms that they will not be. Blue Star represents those families with active members in service.
Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids provides long-term skilled nursing care for veterans and eligible family members. The Kent Garden Club is an organization that focuses on gardening education. To learn more about both organizations visit www.michigan.gov/mvh and kentgardenclub.org.
A family learns about some of the work the Kentwood Department of Publics handles at a past open house. (Supplied)
Community members are invited to learn more about how local public works departments serve residents at the Kentwood Department of Public Works’ Community Open House on Wednesday, May 18.
The event will be hosted in partnership with the Kent County Road Commission in recognition of National Public Works Week, which is May 15-21. The open house will take place on Wednesday, May 18 4-7 p.m. at the Kentwood Department of Public Works facility at 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
Community members of all ages will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes of the DPW facility and learn more about the department. They will be able to meet the public works team, learn more about services provided and explore vehicles and other equipment used by the department.
“From snow plowing and streets to police cruisers and parks maintenance, public works supports many areas of everyday life,” Public Works Director Chad Griffin said. “This event gives us an opportunity to demonstrate that work and connect with residents to share more about our role in the community and the equipment we use.”
The event will feature giveaways, hands-on activities, live maintenance, repair demonstrations and more. Complimentary food and refreshments will be provided. Free silver maple, river birch and blue spruce tree seedlings will also be available for attendees to take home.
Additionally, semifinalists and finalists of the Work Zone Safety Poster competition will be honored at 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by Kent County Road Commission and public works agencies throughout Kent County, the poster contest invited third-grade students from across the county to design a caution sign focused on safety tips for driving through a work zone. A gallery of entries will be displayed during the event.
The Kent County Road Commission will also have team members and equipment on site to share more about the work they do.
“Our crew members are excited to discuss different aspects of their work with the community and highlight how we can work together to maintain safer roads for everyone,” said Steven Warren, managing director of the Kent County Road Commission. ” We are dedicated to improving public infrastructure, and this event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase how we serve our communities.”
The Kentwood Department of Public Works has five divisions that work together to maintain the City’s infrastructure, which includes more than 150 miles of pipes underground and more than 155 miles of streets above ground, as well as City parks and grounds, buildings and fleet of vehicles. The five divisions are building maintenance, fleet services, grounds maintenance, streets maintenance and utilities (water and wastewater) services. To learn more about Kentwood DPW, visit kentwood.us/DPW.
Prior to the open house, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley will provide a proclamation for National Public Works Week during the May 17 City Commission meeting.
The Amway River Bank Run returns to downtown Grand Rapids, and it looks like the rain will hold off just in time for everyone to stay dry.
Please check the latest weather forecast if you have something to do Saturday afternoon. We’re supposed to have some strong winds. Be careful.
What does that mean for other activities going on this weekend? Let’s get to my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Gonzo’s Top 5
5. Tulip Time Festival
Speaking of the weather, let’s hope things go well for the finale of Tulip Time in Holland. The big Volksparade is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Saturday (May 14) and fireworks are planned for later in the evening. Country artists Chase Bryant perform at 7 p.m. That show is indoors. Go to tuliptime.com for the latest updates.
4. Stars on Ice
Some of my favorite memories as a kid was seeing Stars on Ice and all of the Olympic stars who come out to entertain. You can experience the best of the U.S. Figure Skating team, starting with the 2022 Olympic Gold and Silver Medalist, three-time World Champion, and six-time and reigning U.S. Champion Nathan Chen. Others include 2022 Olympic Silver and Bronze Medalists, three-time World Medalists and three-time U.S. Champions Madison Hubbell & Zachary Donohue, as well as Madison Chock & Evan Bates, Karen Chen, Alexa Knierim & Brandon Frazier; Vincent Zhou and many more. The show is at 7:30 tonight (May 13) at Van Andel Arena. Details at vanandelarena.com.
3. Middleville Spring Fest
If you want something to do tonight,the Middleville DDA and community partners will feature live music, free art-based activities, a downtown scavenger hunt, the Middleville Market season kick-off, and much more. Attendees also will be able to help create murals and paint pianos. The event is from 3-7 p.m. Check out the Facebook page for more info.
Circle Theatre presents “RENT” in May. (Supplied)
2. Rent
Circle Theatre is back with “Rent,” a Pulitzer Prize-winning musical by Jonathan Larson, which follows a year in the lives of a group of friends, artists, and musicians. It is set in the East Village of New York City during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and explores love, happiness, and the struggles to survive. Performances are set at the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center through May 21. More details at https://circletheatre.org/.
The Grand Rapids Symphony will be in concert at Meijer Gardens later this year. (Supplied/Grand Rapids Symphony)
1.Revolution: Music of The Beatles – A Symphonic Experience
Relive all the classic Beatles songs in this Grand Rapids Symphony performance led by conductor Bob Bernhardt. This Beatles symphonic experience is transcribed and arranged from original multi-track Abby Road masters. It includes a “magical, musical tour with singers, projected images, and surprises from The Beatles archives,” according to press material. Performances are Friday and Saturday (May 13-14) at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids. Ticket availability at https://www.grsymphony.org/revolution.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Jim Payne and Char Kruzich’s College Avenue home will be part of this year’s Heritage Hill Tour. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
The annual Heritage Hill Weekend Tour of Homes is excited to welcome visitors May 21-22 after a two-year hiatus.
One of the country’s oldest urban historic districts, Heritage Hill has been heralded by “This Old House” as one of the country’s “Best Old House Neighborhoods.” The Heritage Hill Association encourages guests to explore seven homes of families who have courteously opened their doors, as well as two public buildings recently restored by Grand Rapids Community College.
More than 1,300 homes dating from 1843 compile Heritage Hill, and represent nearly every style of American architecture, from Greek Revival to Prairie. Since 1969, a varying line-up of seven to eight private homes and two to three historic buildings have been opened to the public each year with guides who share each building’s unique story and special features.
“This tour is a great opportunity to take a walk back in time,” Jim Payne, owner of Heritage Hill home located at 27 College Avenue NE, told WKTV. “Visitors get to experience different types of architecture and art and reflect on another era.”
The wood in the home is reflective of the original molding and floors. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Jim Payne and Char Kruzich opened the doors of their Heritage Hill home to this WKTV writer, willingly giving a tour of their well-loved and rehabilitated house. Built in 1882 and sporting the American Craftsman Style, 27 College Ave. is on the must-see list of homes on the Heritage Hill Tour.
Both freelance artists themselves, Jim and Char had a hand in every renovated detail, working closely for the more than 14 years with architect Mitch Witkowski and carpenter Tim Karsen and incorporating their own unique designs and artwork into their home. A distinctive integration into the residence are two art studios on the third floor, allowing the owners to “create while living in a work of art.”
Though almost all of the interior is new, Jim and Char kept the original floors of the home and even the original newel post to the staircase leading to the upper floors. “We kept the post and modeled the rest of the room and staircase around its original design,” Jim said.
A unique piece of history was found inside the walls of their historic home during the renovation. “There was a piece of trim from 1909, signed by the carpenter, inside the wall,” said Jim. “He had taped coins from that year to the wood.”
“Our carpenter did the same,” Char said with a smile. “He signed a piece of wood and then taped current coins to it before closing up the walls.”
While the inside of the home has been drastically altered, allowing better movement from room to room and improved airflow throughout the residence, the exterior has been restored to its original architectural design. Dormers and gables provide a complex façade and emphasize the Craftsman Style’s natural materials and fine craftsmanship.
When asked about restrictions for renovating their home due to the historic nature of the residence, Jim and Char said the only boundaries the Historic Preservation Commission, (HPC), imposes on homeowners is in regard to the exterior of the homes.
“Color of paint is not restricted, but things that would alter the exterior of the home like windows, doors and railings, require HPC approval,” Jim said. “That way construction of decks and sliding glass doors, things that aren’t true to the era of the homes, are avoided.”
The exterior of the home at 27 College Ave. NE
The entrance
The dining area
The living room
Living space
Office space
Living area
An original post and molding
While there might be restrictions on outside renovations, Jim and Char said HPC has no boundaries on the interior of the home. This allows historic homeowners to preserve the exterior architecture while creating an interior that suits their personal tastes.
“They want you to be able to rehabilitate these homes,” Char said. “They want you to be able to raise families here. To live here, not just reside here.”
Jim agreed. “The Historic Preservation Commission was a great help during the remodel.”
The homeowners revealed that their neighborhood is like a second family. Moving to College Avenue in 1981, they rented a home for five years before buying their current home in 1986, giving them 40 years in their current community.
“Owners or renters, it doesn’t matter,” said Char. “We are all treated like family and are all close.”
The neighborhood even formed the North College Block Club, with families gathering socially many times a year. “Our own kitchen has seen a lot of action,” Char said as she tapped the counter next to her.
Jim and Char urge community members to come out and experience the masterpieces compiling Heritage Hill.
Advance tickets are $18 and can be found at www.heritagehillweb.org. To obtain tickets by check, send to the Heritage Hill Association, 126 College SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Tickets purchased on the days of the tour are $25.
Proceeds benefit the Heritage Hill Association’s programs that support the historic preservation of this unique neighborhood and assist with land use, planning, engaging neighbors and community resources, and crime prevention.
More information about the annual tour and the homes and businesses opening their doors can also be found at www.heritagehillweb.org or by calling 616-459-8950.
A whole food diet is important for runners as they gear up for the summer running season. (pxhere.com)
Running is back in season! Spring means warmer weather, and warmer weather means more running. Whether preparing for that early morning run, or for a marathon such as the Amway River Run or the Grand Rapids Marathon, proper nutrition is the key to success. YMCA dietitian Nicole Holmes and Dr. Elizabeth Albright of University of Michigan Health offer advice and tips for getting the most out of your sprint.
“Include protein in all meals,” Holmes said is her first recommendation. “Protein is an essential building block for muscles, helping them recover from training.” She goes on to include such foods as meat, eggs, fish, milk, yogurt, cheese, nuts, tofu, seeds and legumes as great sources of protein.
Albright notes that “there isn’t necessarily one specific eating plan” she would recommend for all athletes. In general she encourages following a whole food diet, a plan which includes decreasing the amount of processed foods eaten. Carbohydrates are highly regarded in particular, such as “whole fruit, sweet potatoes, oatmeal, brown rice, whole grain bread, cereal, and pasta.”
Nicole Holmes
“Carbohydrates provide the major source of energy when training,” Holmes agreed. Fruits and vegetables are key as well. “Fruits and vegetables are important components of every training plan because they are packed full of vitamins and minerals essential for proper recovery of trained muscles, prevention of illness, and overall health and wellbeing.”
Fluids, especially water, are also extremely important. Holmes recommends drinking five to 10 ounces of fluids every 15 to 20 minutes. When it comes to healthy, electrolyte-laden energy drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, she says the longer the run, the more important they are. Albright recommends these drinks when running for over an hour.
Stretching before runs is an essential practice. Rather than classic “static” stretches that are often practiced in school, such as holding a stretch for a period of time, Albright recommends “dynamic” stretching, or stretching with movement. “Essentially you perform gentle repetitive movements that increase range of motion, provides muscle lengthening, and gets blood flow circulating through the area.” She recommends Runner’s World’s article on the topic: https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a32616143/standing-prerun-stretches/
Dr. Elizabeth Albright
In the end, everyone needs to find their own pace and rhythm when it comes to exercise. Holmes notes that “it may take multiple training runs to figure out what nutrition combination works best.” Similarly, Albright explains that there isn’t really a best time of day for running, whether training or in a marathon: “The most important thing is to plan for what you are likely to stick to.”
Perhaps most important, Albright concludes, is to HAVE FUN! “You are running a marathon, something 99% of the world will never do. Congratulate yourself, be proud of yourself, and enjoy it!”
Everyone needs to cool off on a hot day. (Supplied)
The City of Kentwood will host its Bark for the Park event Thursday, May 19 to raise funds for new amenities at the dog park in Kellogg Woods Park.
The dog-friendly event offers free admission and takes place 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Kellogg Woods Park, 275 Kellogg Woods Park Drive SE, with financial donations being accepted throughout the event. No registration is required.
Attendees and their canine companions can explore a variety of local pet vendors and community booths, from local pet stores to pet resorts. The event will also include a pet craft station, photo booth, and dog agility course. Attendees can join a yoga session with their pup and also participate in a doggy fashion show. Individuals will also receive a doggie bag filled with dog treats and other favors to take home.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the Let’z Taco Bout It food truck, which will serve tacos and elephant ears. The Kentwood Parks and Recreation tent will have dog-safe ice cream available for purchase.
You never know who you might meet at the Bark for the Park. (Supplied)
“Kellogg Woods Park is home to the only dog park in Kentwood and a popular spot for dog owners,” said Spencer McKellar, lead recreation program coordinator. “This event gives us a chance to showcase this amenity to the community and raise money to ensure it remains a premier place for pups in the Kentwood area.
“Bring your canine companion out for an evening of tacos and treats and explore all Kellogg Woods has to offer.”
Funds raised at this year’s event will contribute to the purchase of a tiered drinking fountain with spouts for people and pets for the dog park.
About 35 vendors will be on hand tomorrow selling fruit, meat, cheeses, and other handmade items. (Supplied)
The University of Michigan Health-West Farmer’s Market is set to open for the season tomorrow, continuing to serve the community with fresh produce and products, while supporting local farms and small business owners.
When the market opens for the season, 35 vendors will be on-site at the hospital’s Wyoming campus selling local fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, baked goods, plants and more. Artisan vendors will be selling handmade items including clothing and home décor.
“We are looking forward to another great season at the market,” said the hospital’s Head of Community Outreach Michelle Rademacher. “A fun new addition we have this year are local musicians who will be performing over the lunch hour.”
Another addition to this year’s market is the return of Kids Day. After a two-year hiatus due to COVID- 19, Kids Day is back on June 16. The first 250 kids to arrive at the information table will receive a free gift. There will also be activities including a scavenger hunt, crafts, yard games, a traveling zoo and more.
On average, the University of Michigan Health-West Farmer’s Market sees nearly 1,300 people daily during the peak season. As in past years, the market will continue to accept EBT, P-EBT, Double Up Food Bucks, WIC, Senior Project Fresh coupons as well as cash and most major credit cards.
The market opens Thursday, May 12 and runs each Thursday through early October. Hours are 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. For more information visit www.umhealthwest.org.
