Brena’s lead duo, Craig Avery and Steffan Copenhaver, met in 2005 at Grand Valley State University. Copenhaver, a music education major, was studying trumpet, while Avery was a piano major focusing on music performance.
In 2007, Avery and Copenhaver – along with Copenhaver’s brother Sean – formed the band Brena.
(Courtesy, Wyoming Parks and Rec)
“Both Steffan and Sean had other bands at the time,” said Avery, vocalist and keyboard player for Brena.
“Steffan’s band was called Broken Sunday, and Sean’s was called Smoothie, and both of those bands called it quits – and out of that, we formed Brena.”
“We literally drew it out of a hat”
When signing up for the Grand Rapids Festival of the Arts in 2007, Avery and the Copenhaver brothers needed to come up with a name for their new band.
“I wish I had a cool story, but we literally drew it out of a hat,” chuckled Avery. “When we became a cover band we thought about changing the name, but we already had a decent following so we thought we should just roll with it.”
Struggles in the early years
In the band’s early years, Brena created original music and released three albums before transitioning to a cover band due to financial reasons.
Brena performed original music before finding success as a cover band (Courtesy photo)
“There was a time where it didn’t seem like it would work out,” Avery said. “We were about to release our final original album, and our drummer got hurt and couldn’t play. We had plans to tour around and promote the album.
“That incident really took the wind out of our sails with promoting the original material; we also accumulated a substantial amount of debt recording original material, and that’s why we transitioned into doing covers.”
Growth as a cover band
Brena’s transition to a cover band proved to be successful, as they went from performing at 10 cover gigs to an impressive 157 shows per year.
“We are going to ride this train as long as we can,” said Avery.
Brena currently boasts a 400+ song library, from Motown Funk to Modern Rock and Roll, and everything in between. The band provides a fresh experience with each show.
“We try to mix it up every show,” said Avery.
Brena takes the stage with a wide range of talent. Avery plays the keyboard and provides vocals alongside Michele Moretti. Copenhaver plays multiple instruments, including violin, trumpet and guitar, while also providing vocals. Sam Parks plays lead guitar, Sam Briggs plays drums, and Matt Kok is on bass. KM Denton is the band’s sound tech and mixer.
Brena returns to Concerts in the Park on June 25, the first time since the pandemic (Courtesy, WKTV)
Return to Concerts in the Park
Brena will be returning to Concerts in the Park for the third time, the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s a fun atmosphere. It’s cool to see people from the community come together and enjoy music. A lot of perfect strangers,” said Avery. “Bring your dancing shoes, have fun and enjoy the music!”
Brena’s original material can be found on Spotify. Learn more about the band Brena here.
NOTE:There are two artists under the name Brena on Spotify, be sure to use this link to find the correct band.
Event details to know
Each concert will feature a food truck with food and beverages available for purchase. Concertgoers are welcome to bring their own food, however alcohol is not permitted in the park.
“We are excited to continue this tradition for our community,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director, in supplied material.
“Concerts in the Park are a highlight of summertime in Wyoming. We hope you will grab your blankets, chairs and friends and join us for some fun in the parks!”
All concerts are free of charge and open to the public.
With the return of summer comes another seasonal tradition – the annual Wyoming Carnival!
Families are invited to Lamar Park to enjoy carnival rides, food, games and prizes June 21-29.
“The carnival is a great opportunity for people of all ages to come out and celebrate summer,” said Krashawn Martin, Director of Wyoming Parks & Recreation.
Years prior, the annual carnival was held in April. Martin said the City has been working for years to change the carnival to a summer date.
“Previously, we were this vendor’s very first event of the season,” said Martin. “This year it finally worked out for us that we are in June instead of our usual April date.
“We’re excited! It’ll be a great opportunity for families and neighbors to come out and enjoy the park, and enjoy the carnival at the same time.”
Impacting our youth through family fun
Not only does the carnival provide fun for the whole family, it funds youth scholarships and programming through the Parks & Recreation Department.
(Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
“Our carnival vendor, T.J. Schmidt & Company, they have been super generous and really wonderful to work with,” said Martin. “We have an agreement with them that a portion of their ticket sales will come back to the Parks and Recreation Department, and go directly toward our youth scholarships.”
Those scholarships can be utilized by most any youth in Wyoming under the age of 18.
“If you qualify for free or reduced lunch in your school location, you likely would qualify for a 50%, 75%, or even 100% scholarship for any of our recreation programs,” said Martin. “We want to make sure that everyone has an opportunity to get into these programs, that finances are not a barrier for anyone.”
Those interested in applying for a youth scholarship can fill out an application on the Parks & Recreation website, or visit the department office location.
The Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance distributes funds to the community through their annual grant awarding process.
Event details to know
The carnival will be open Monday through Thursday from 2 – 8:30 p.m., Friday from 12 – 8:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1 – 8:30 p.m.
Ticket and wristband cost will be announced soon, with a $3-off coupon available on the Parks & Recreation Department social media site.
“You can show [the coupon] on your phone and get a discount on the wristband if you choose to go that route,” said Martin. “Otherwise, there are individual ticket sales for rides, food vendors and things like that.”
(Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
But wait – there’s more!
On Tuesday, June 25, attendees can also enjoy a performance by Brena at the Concerts in the Park series held at Lamar Park.
“We do the concert series every year, and it’s kind of the perfect balance,” said Martin. “For the week of the carnival, it is actually Brena, which is a popular cover band in Michigan. It will be a well-attended concert.
“To be going at the same time as the carnival gives even more opportunity for people to enjoy the park in a multitude of different ways.”
Martin encourages the community to come out and experience the family-friendly event.
“[The carnival] is a chance for us to build on a community tradition that funds a good cause impacting youth in Wyoming.”
Todd Wolf, Voice Impressionist and Owner of TA Wolf Entertainment N Productions, impersonates beloved actors and movie characters on WKTV Journal Soundbites.
Local Wyoming voice impressionist Todd Wolf is garnering international notice for his actor and character impersonations.
Most known for his impression of actor John Wayne, the owner of TA Wolf Entertainment N Productions has been imitating his favorite television characters since he was nine years old.
Grounded and bored
TA Wolf’s deep voice at a young age helped with his voice impressions (Courtesy, TA Wolf)
On the same weekend that John Wayne passed away, Wolf was grounded and looking for ways to pass the time in his room.
“I had ADHD and was real hyper. I didn’t listen, so I was in trouble a lot,” said Wolf. “I had a recorder and began recording my voice.”
Singer Elvis Presley had also died within the last couple of years, and radio DJ Wolfman Jack was popular, so Wolf impersonated their voices to entertain himself.
Wolf’s portfolio contains 14 regular character impressions, including Humphrey Bogart, John Wayne, Sylvester Stallone, Sean Connery, Yogi Bear, Rodney Dangerfield, Wolfman Jack, Harry Caray and more.
“These are the people that I’ve [impersonated] all my life,” said Wolf. “They were big on TV, so I watched a lot of TV as a child and took on the likeness of these characters.”
Getting started
Though Wolf enjoyed imitating his favorite actors and TV characters, his talent was not taken seriously until age 24 when he tied for third place in a comedy contest.
Wolf says it can be difficult switching between character voices during skits (Courtesy, TA Wolf)
Wolf then traveled to California and performed at the Laugh Factory. Owner Jamie Masada heard Wolf’s act.
“[Masada] said: You’re really talented,” said Wolf, adding that Masada also had a special request.
“He wanted me to do Rodney Dangerfield, John Wayne, Sylvester Stallone and Wolfman Jack hanging out at a bar,” said Wolf. “He said, put that scene together.”
Taking Masada’s advice, Wolf developed a skit involving those characters for his first LaughFest comedy performance.
“I had to stand there and come up with jokes or get thrown off stage,” said Wolf with a laugh. “I thought, I’d better do some voices.”
What followed were 10 years of LaughFest comedy routines that led to other voice impression performances.
Getting noticed
Various media outlets began to take notice and requested interviews.
“It ballooned into more and I just kept thinking, you know what, I can do this,” said Wolf.
A recommendation describing TA Wolf’s talent for voice impersonation (Courtesy, TA Wolf)
That “more” included an invitation from John Wayne’s family requesting Wolf’s assistance with a John Wayne film documentary.
At the grand re-opening and 70th anniversary of Brunson Theater in Texas, Wolf was asked to read a telegram in John Wayne’s voice.
Wolf with John Wayne sculpture (Courtesy, TA Wolf)
Wolf also participated in Duke’s Grand Tour and NBC Studios’ John Wayne program research. While at NBC Studios, Wolf was instructed to “bark” at one of the nation’s most popular talk show hosts.
“At the end of the day, they sent me over to Jay Leno and sat me in the front row, and I had to bark at Jay,” said Wolf. “They call me the world’s most vicious dog.”
TA Wolf services include voiceovers of famous actors and legends, comedy shows, acting, commercials, corporate events, parties and personalized audio clips.
Though voice impressions are not his full-time work, Wolf hopes someday it will be.
“It would be nice to be on a full-time schedule if I could get enough accounts,” said Wolf. “I’ve been working on God’s speed, so when He lets me…that’s when I do things.”
Giving back, creating memories
Wolf doesn’t shy away from dressing the part, often donning a cowboy hat, boots and bandana when doing in-person impressions of John Wayne.
Wolf enjoys making people happy and creating memories with his impersonations (Courtesy, TA Wolf)
At local retirement homes, Wolf puts on a performance for the residents dressed as John Wayne, and shows a John Wayne video compilation.
Wolf provides a blank billboard and marker so residents can write down their favorite movies and/or a positive comment to the John Wayne Cancer Foundation (JWFC). Wolf then takes a picture of that billboard and sends it to John Wayne’s sons, Ethan and Patrick.
“That’s what I’m trying to implement,” said Wolf. “To put on a little show for some of these retirement homes around town. Have me come in and dress up for a day, and give them something to remember. That’s what I’m hoping, that it will be something special.”
TA Wolf (left) with Ethan Wayne at the 2024 John Wayne Grit Series race in Crystal Cove, CA (Courtesy, TA Wolf)
A compilation of races throughout the year at iconic John Wayne movie locations and western landscapes, the Grit Series helps support the JWCF. Wolf recently took part in the Grit Series race in Crystal Cove, CA – and met Ethan Wayne.
“I got to fly out to California to run a race to help people suffering [from cancer], and try to take care of myself at the same time,” said Wolf. “I dressed up like John Wayne, [Ethan] took a picture with me, and we talked and made a video for my friend that suffered from cancer. Hats off, he’s a wonderful person.”
“Don’t be shy.”
Whether for entertainment at a corporate or private event, or to preserve cherished memories through the voice of a favorite character, Wolf says to pick a character – and don’t be shy.
“Give me a call. I love working with people,” said Wolf. “Send me the lines, I’ll put it together and send you the audio. You can decide what character you like, and I‘ll bring that voice to you.”
Only a click away!
(Courtesy, TA Wolf)
For those interested in TA Wolf Entertainment N Productions services, contact Todd Wolf via email at tawolfproductions@gmail.com, or by phone at 616-644-7133.
Donations for travel and costume items are also accepted through the contact button on the TA Wolf website.
Whorled, a Grand Rapids-based world folk band, will perform at Lamar Park on June 18 (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
By Ty Marzean
WKTV Contributor
The 2024 Wyoming Concerts in the Park series begins this Tuesday, June 18 at 6 p.m. with folk band Whorled performing at Lamar Park.
Whorled is a Grand Rapids-based world folk band that blends various genres, including Irish, Japanese, and bluegrass, to create a unique and captivating musical experience.
Captivating and eclectic
Whorled is made up of Thom Jayne, Keala Venema, and Mariko Venema. The trio brings diverse musical backgrounds and influences, resulting in a rich and eclectic sound.
(Courtesy photo)
According to the band’s website, Thom Jayne brings his unique guitar style, inspired by a wide range of genres from Tony Rice to Brazilian folk music. Jayne is an award-winning musician with two WYCE Jammie Awards for best local World Beat CD of the year with his Lansing-based band “Thom Jayne and the Nomads” in the early 2000s.
Additionally, Keala Venema showcases expertise in fiddle, guitar, tin whistle, and Bodhran, adding a lively and traditional touch to the band’s music. Venema also is the lead fiddle instructor at Michigan Academy of Folk Music and plays for many jazz fusion bands in the Grand Rapids area.
Mariko Venema, classically trained on the piano at age 5, brings her passion for alternative music to the band, specializing in the accordion and exploring various traditional styles from around the world. Venema has been under the tutelage of world class instructors Jacque Mornet and Nathalie Boucheix in both New Orleans and St-Sauves d’Auvergne, France.
Each concert will feature a food truck with food and beverages available for purchase. Concertgoers are welcome to bring their own food, however alcohol is not permitted in the park.
“We are excited to continue this tradition for our community,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director, in supplied material. “Concerts in the Park are a highlight of summertime in Wyoming. We hope you will grab your blankets, chairs and friends and join us for some fun in the parks!”
All concerts are free of charge and open to the public.
Two local organizations have teamed up to provide a fun and safe event for young girls and the positive male role models in their lives in the form of a Daddy Daughter Dance on Friday, June 14.
Though labeled a “Daddy Daughter” dance, Reginald Howard of Hero’s Corner and Reggie Macon of Battle Ground JKD LLC recognize that a wider light needs to be shed on fatherhood in the community.
“In some cases, some people might not have a father,” said Macon to WKTV. “We say ‘Daddy Daughter,’ but we want any positive male role model and niece, granddaughter – whatever the case may be – to come out and enjoy themselves.”
In with the positive, out with the negative
Reggie Macon with his two daughters, Leilani (left) and Kailani (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)
Macon went on to say that the positive father-daughter, or positive male role model-young girl, relationship within families is not often seen or recognized.
“There is so much negative stuff going on when it comes to stuff like that, so we want to give fathers – or that positive male role model – a chance to celebrate not only themselves, but the kids’ lives that they are impacting,” said Macon.
Macon’s own father demonstrated that positive influence throughout Macon’s life.
“He was somebody that worked hard, showed us love, provided, protected and gave us a sense of security – for our household, and for our whole neighborhood,” said Macon. “My house was the house that the neighborhood kids would come to, and if we had extra food, my dad would provide for them.”
Macon defines a positive role model as an individual who has a positive impact in someone’s life. And he believes the importance of showing positive versus negative family relationships to young girls in the community is vital.
“Show them the positive love so they won’t go out into the world looking for it,” said Macon.
With three children of his own, two daughters and a son, Macon strives to be that positive influence he experienced with his father.
“[Becoming a father] gave me a sense of: it’s not just about me anymore,” said Macon. “Having somebody else that depended on me actually lit a fire under me to want more [so] I can leave something behind for them.”
Bringing the community together
Reggie Macon with daughter Leilani (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)
The idea for the Daddy Daughter Dance came from Macon’s brother, C Dot, who is hosting the upcoming event.
Having recently attended his first daddy daughter dance at his daughters’ school, C Dot told Macon that he had a great time – but felt awkward standing by himself when his two daughters walked off with their friends. “He didn’t know anybody at the school,” said Macon. “He said, ‘I think we should have something where we can get all our friends and their daughters together.’”
Having already formed a partnership with Howard at Hero’s Corner, Macon and Howard began brainstorming ideas.
When Macon mentioned his brother’s idea for a daddy daughter dance, Howard offered the use of his facility.
What partygoers can expect
Reggie Macon with daughter Kailani (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)
Dance attendees will be treated to door prizes, raffles, a photo booth with a professional team, food, refreshments and games. Those in possession of a dance event ticket with a star on the back will also win a prize. A few surprises will be revealed during the event as well.
“It’s music, and fun times to create those memories and enhance that bond between fathers and daughters,” said Macon.
The Daddy Daughter Dance will take place Friday, June 14 from 6-9 p.m. at Hero’s Corner, 4809 Eastern Avenue SE, in Kentwood. Ticket cost is $10, and space is limited.
For more information and ticket purchases, call Reginald Howard of Hero’s Corner at 616-635-2768, or Reggie Macon of Battle Ground at 616-255-7571.
Tickets can also be purchased through the Battle Ground JKD website.
WKTV Journal Managing Editor Cris Greer sits down with Shelby Henshaw of Kentwood Parks and Recreation to talk about upcoming summer events the whole family can enjoy.
The City of Kentwood is inviting community members to its Kickoff to Summer Celebration, a fun-filled festival for all ages slated for Saturday, June 8.
The Kickoff to Summer Celebration features a variety of food trucks and artist vendors as well as a beer tent, children’s activities, live music and cornhole and beach volleyball tournaments in the area around City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE.
“We’re delighted to celebrate the beginning of the summer season with another fun festival that has something for all ages,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “With a fantastic lineup of food, artists, musicians and activities, we’re looking forward to a full day of sharing the best in summer flavors, sights and sounds.”
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The free-to-attend festival will begin with a beach volleyball tournament from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the courts near City Hall at 5068 Breton Ave. SE. The tournament features four-player teams competing for a championship prize of shirts and a $100 credit toward this fall’s Kentwood Parks and Recreation indoor volleyball league.
The volleyball tournament is limited to six teams. The cost to participate is $100 per team. Those interested can register online or call 616-656-5270.
Food trucks, artist vendors and the beer tent will be on-site from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for the festival. A wide variety of cuisines will be available through 20-plus food trucks – everything from barbeque and burritos to baked goods and cold treats. The beer tent will feature a variety of brews including local craft favorites from Railtown Brewing Company. More than 15 artists will sell handmade jewelry, art, clothing, and more. The cost for food, beverages and artisan goods varies by vendor.
The cornhole tournament runs from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the parking lot behind City Hall. The double-elimination tournament concludes with a trophy awarded to the top team.
Each cornhole team consists of two players, and participants must be 18 or older to compete. The cost to participate is $40. Only one teammate needs to complete the registration online or by phone at 616-656-5270.
Kids activities such as face painting, an obstacle course, hoop shoot, and an art activity are offered throughout the day.
The event’s diamond sponsors are Macatawa Bank, Mary Free Bed Orthotics & Prosthetics + Bionics and NN Autocam Inc., gold sponsors are Bloom Sluggett, PC, Metronet, MCSA Group, Inc., Renewal by Anderson of Greater Michigan and Sabo PR.
Volunteers are needed for the festival. To find more event information and sign up to volunteer, visit KickoffToSummer.
The Division Arts Festival on Saturday, June 1 will feature more than family-friendly activities, live music and vendors. Attendees will also be within walking distance of 11 brick and mortar restaurants serving a diverse array of dining and to-go options.
“This area of the community is incredibly diverse, and there are a lot of creative, cool things going on here that go under the radar,” said Hunter Van Klompenberg, one of the owners of The Stray art café.
One of those “cool things” includes a variety of international food choices.
International cuisine at your fingertips
The Stray art café offers far more than just coffee (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Two food trucks and 11 brick and mortar restaurants will be within 1-2 minutes walking distance of Festival activities.
The Honeybees Kitchen and Catering food truck specializing in Caribbean and soul food will be available, as well as gourmet burgers and loaded fries from Dune Buggy food truck.
Brick and mortar restaurants include several international options for diners:
B&N Sandwiches – Bahn MI Sub Sandwiches and other Vietnamese Specialties
Saigon Garden – Vietnamese
Pho Soc Trang – Vietnamese Soup Restaurant
Fat Man’s Fish Fry – Seafood
Brann’s Steakhouse – Classic American
The Stray – Café, New American Cuisine
Joe’s Pizza King – Pizza & Subs
Diversity, comfort and creativity
The Stray art café menu offers more than just coffee for those who walk in the door. A variety of choices include delicious flatbreads, soups, salads, desserts and more. Drink options include tea, soda, beer, wine and – of course – coffee.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Coffee enthusiasts can also peruse the works of various local artists showcased at The Stray as they enjoy their beverages. To-go orders are accepted during Festival hours, as well as indoor dining.
Owned by the Van Klompenberg family, The Stray works to bring diversity and community to a place of comfort and creativity.
Though officially hosted by the Division Avenue Business Association (DABA), The Stray has stepped in to help with Festival logistics each year.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“I already work here at The Stray doing the music booking and that kind of thing for our Friday and Saturday evenings. It led naturally to artists I’d already developed a relationship with that I could invite back for this,” said Van Klompenberg.
His mother, Karen Van Klompenberg, is Creative Director at The Stray and manages the consignment art. Her connections with local artists also help with the inner workings of the Festival.
Van Klompenberg said they have continued to make the Division Arts Festival an annual event because they truly enjoy it.
“It’s a lot of fun to throw a party for the neighborhood,” said Van Klompenberg with a smile.
Connection and support
Concepción (left) and Manuel Cardiel (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)
“It’s the simple things,” said Van Klompenberg, gesturing around the dining area of El Ganadero Mexican Grille where he stood.
“I come to lunch here occasionally, just chat with them, that sort of thing. That’s the easy way to say hello and support each other.”
Relationships with other business owners and patrons is important to Van Klompenberg. Those connections are formed through small actions.
That connection was evident as El Ganadero owner Manuel Cardiel met Van Klompenberg with a wide smile.
El Ganadero chicken and shrimp tacos (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)
El Ganadero steak tacos (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)
With efficient movements, combined with several smiles and upbeat conversation, Cardiel promptly created two fresh plates of tacos for Van Klompenberg and this reporter.
Cardiel, his wife Concepción and their children can be found at El Ganadero daily, serving fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Nurturing cultural diversity
Café Boba, a Taiwanese boba café owned by Ted & Yili Bonarski, will also be welcoming patrons during the Festival – and offering a 10% discount on all orders.
A wide variety of boba drinks, coffee and ice cream are available, and can be customized to the patron’s preferences. A parade featuring a 20-foot dragon will also be part of the festivities as a way to honor Yili’s Chinese heritage.
The polished wood table made by Ted Bonarski from reclaimed barn wood (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Established in 2003 as Boba Latte under previous owners, the boba café closed in summer of 2013. Having moved his financial services office into the second-floor rooms of the building in 2006, Ted Bonarski bought the café in December 2013, renaming it Café Boba.
And Bonarski is committed to allowing diversity to flourish in their neighborhood.
“We are embedded in this neighborhood, which is multicultural, and we want to keep it that way,” said Bonarski.
Bonarski also ensures every item they offer is high-quality.
Bubble waffle cone with chocolate ice cream and jasmine boba pearls (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We saw bubble waffles as street food in Shanghai,” said Bonarski. “We bought a waffle machine and brought it back to the U.S. Friends own China City over on Eastern [and] they helped us perfect the recipe for the waffle.
“All of the coffee that we serve comes from Herman’s Boy, and nowhere else. We make the Vietnamese iced coffee, Café Sua Da, fresh. A lot of Vietnamese have given us input into the right strengths and the right tastes, so our Vietnamese iced coffee is very good.”
All coffee ordered is fresh, ground at the time of order with an AeroPress, then served to the customer.
More than a just boba and ice cream
Customers who walk into Café Boba will find a welcoming atmosphere designed by Bonarski’s daughter. A popular feature is the long, polished wood counter made from reclaimed barn wood from Michigan barns – and built by Bonarski himself.
But what Bonarski is most proud of is the family-friendly environment that brings in residents of all ages.
“We get the latchkey kids [from Kelloggsville and Godwin] that will come and hang out here after school until their parents can pick them up,” said Bonarski.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“We have one or two social workers that will bring kids in here to sit and talk to them. We had a group come in a week or so ago Thursday and take over the whole table and play Dungeons and Dragons for 4 to 5 hours.”
Bonarski extends that nurturing atmosphere to his employees as well, ensuring they have a healthy work environment.
“We’ve had so many kids come through, work for us as a first job, come out of a shell, and become outgoing people who could handle the world outside because they’re facing customers and taking orders every day,” said Bonarski. “It is very important to us that it be a healthy environment.”
And that, Bonarski added, is something we should do all the time. “You take what you find and make it better.”
Be in the know: additional festival details
(Courtesy photo)
Set at the intersection of 43rd Street and Division Avenue, the Division Arts Festival runs Saturday, June 1 from 2 – 9 p.m.
The Festival will feature live music, with a social drinking zone nearby for those who would like a beverage while enjoying the music. There will also be 50+ vendors with art, handmade goods and crafts, and an interactive narrative art walk for children.
Attendees may also be periodically surprised by a sudden monologue from strategically placed local theater artists.
“The overall reason for the Festival is to bring recognition and excitement to the [Division Avenue] neighborhood, the businessest there, and the people,” said Van Klompenberg.
Safety Notes
Division Avenue will close down to two lanes of traffic, and 43rd Street will be shut down on both sides of Division.
Give ‘Em a Break Safety will help with traffic control. A crosswalk will also be put in for safety.
Vendors with tents will line each side of Division Avenue.
“It will be really easy to walk across the street [and] up and down the neighborhood,” said Van Klompenberg.
Updates and Event Lineups
The Division Arts Festival is organized by the Division Avenue Business Association and generously sponsored by LMCU, Godwin Plumbing & Hardware, Rivertown Credit Union, Marge’s Donut Den, Brann’s Restaurant, Gordon Food Service, The King Family, The Stray and the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming.
A new attraction for children will be available at the annual Division Arts Festival scheduled for Saturday, June 1.
All ages of children are invited to join in at the interactive kids art walk that will be set up in The Stray parking lot during the Division Arts Festival. Consisting of 8-10 stations, the art walk will feature a narrative called Ava and Leo’s Delightfully Different Day, written by local authors Lynn W. Francis, Elizabeth Meyette and Karen Van Klompenberg.
An interactive storybook
Author Lynn W. Francis (Courtesy, Lynn Francis)
“It’s almost like walking through a storybook,” said author Lynn Francis.
The story follows two young best friends and their dog Spot. They go through a day of trying different experiences, finding out what each of them does and does not like, and trying to find something they can do together.
As the story unfolds, there are different stations.
Each station contains a block of text that is part of the narrative, and a piece of art depicting the happenings of that scene. The station will also have actions for kids to complete that correlate to the story, such as spinning, dancing, or pretending to fly like birds.
“It will be this full story trail, and you can follow Ava and Leo’s journey as they go from here to there, try out the swing set and splash through a brook,” said Francis. “You just follow them through and reenact the story as you’re going along.”
A sketch of Ava and Leo from participating artist Brae Hoff (Courtesy, Karen Van Klompenberg)
The art walk narrative provides thought-provoking questions for children and parents to talk through while emphasizing the value of friends with different backgrounds than your own.
Though directed toward ages 5-13, the art walk is something all ages can enjoy.
“Personally, I’m planning on walking through myself as a grownup just because I think it’ll be fun,” said Francis. “It could appeal to real littles who are just listening, and then the more active ages where they want to be a part of the story, or even a little older who would just enjoy reading it.”
From inspiration to reality
The idea for the art walk came from Van Klompenberg, one of the narrative authors and part-owner of The Stray art cafe.
Notes from an art walk storyline meeting (Courtesy, Karen Van Klompenberg)
Wanting an activity specifically geared toward children, Van Klompenberg began brainstorming ideas.
“She had this vision in her mind beforehand of getting as many people involved as possible,” said Francis. “She brought myself, a couple other writers, and several artists who have work featured at The Stray together to work on this project collaboratively, which has been really cool,” said Francis.
Artists have been working together using shared color palettes and predetermined physical traits for the story’s characters and clothing. Character composites were formed and sketched by a sub group of artists. The pictured work in progress is by participating artist Alexis Hannah (Courtesy, Karen Van Klompenberg)
Van Klompenberg sat down with the group she had pulled together and said, “The sky’s the limit.”
“We got the storyline figured out, and then she took that to the artists,” said Francis.
A local chalk artist had the idea of kids completing motions at each station to help them stay engaged in the story.
“[Karen] really wanted this to be an immersive artistic experience,” said Francis. “This is a way to get [kids] involved, see the different art styles, and see the different mediums that these artists can use.
“And the story itself too, about how everybody likes and enjoys doing different things. Some people make art, and some people receive art. Both of those things are valuable. Without each person, nothing would happen.”
Overall, there are 11 contributors to the art walk project. Artists include Rebecca Rodriguez, Rebecca Senior, Juan Pimentel, Brae Hoff, Alexis Hannah, Amanda Fairbanks, Karen Van Klompenberg, Yohan Daza, and local woodworker John Stutzman.
“It’s been a really collaborative effort, and I’ve been very lucky to be a part of it,” said Francis. “I’m very excited to see it all together, honestly. I haven’t seen all of the art yet, so I’m quite excited to walk through and see everybody’s contribution.”
Experience all artistic walks
Francis urges the community to come out and enjoy the Division Arts Festival.
Set at the intersection of 43rd Street and Division Avenue, the event runs Saturday, June 1 from 2-9 p.m.
The Festival will feature over 50 art and craft vendors, engaging games, creative art activities, a dedicated kids’ area, a variety of food trucks, delicious dishes from nearby international restaurants and live performances by local bands.
“All artistic walks are there,” said Francis. “It’s a really incredible experience. You can meet a lot of really cool local authors, artists, artisans and musicians.”
Beauty in diversity
A painting holder prototype by local woodworker John Stutzman (Courtesy, Karen Van Klompenberg)
More than just a fun event, the Festival brings the community together to celebrate differences, support local entrepreneurs, and envision a neighborhood where diversity thrives, businesses flourish, families feel welcomed, and everyone can enjoy the vibrant culture and spirit of the community.
And art, Francis believes, is a big part of bringing a community together.
“Art has that thing where it brings people together,” said Francis. “Where you can look at it and say, I feel that too. I live in that same world too, and I’m not alone.
“You can find such a community in appreciation of art or in the creation of art. It’s a beautiful thing to see.”
Francis went on to say that art is important to both artists and to those who enjoy the art.
“I think the biggest thing [art] does – because it does a lot – is it shows the beauty in our world,” Francis said. “It reflects the world that we live in – beauty, and pain, and sadness, and anger, and joy. It has everything broken down to this piece that you can look at and reflect on, and see a piece of the world, and a piece of yourself in it.”
More about the Festival
The Division Arts Festival is organized by the Division Avenue Business Association and generously sponsored by LMCU, Godwin Plumbing & Hardware, Rivertown Credit Union, Marge’s Donut Den, Brann’s Restaurant, Gordon Food Service, The King Family, The Stray and the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming.
Shovels turned on May 21, breaking ground at the site of what will soon be the Grand Rapids Acrisure Amphitheatre.
Buildings have already begun to be dismantled at 201 Market Avenue SW, a 17-acre site located on the east side of the Grand River. Formerly containing Grand Rapids City Buildings, the site will soon see the emergence of a 12,000-seat amphitheater and stage.
“By this time next year, the canopy itself will be standing,” said Tim Schowalter, President and CEO of Pioneer Construction. “We’re going to be ready May 2026 to have the first concerts in the venue.”
Mayor Rosalynn Bliss talks about how the amphitheater will bolster local economy for generations (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The Acrisure Amphitheater, developed by Grand Action 2.0, is considered the centerpiece to a vision seeded back in 2007.
The amphitheater is expected to fill a gap in the live entertainment industry in West Michigan, draw visitors to the city, expand public access to the river and catalyze future development in the area.
“Today our headlines talk about transformation,” said Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss. “The story is one of a collaborative community vision that will shape our Grand Rapids landscape.
“It will connect people together, it will connect people to place, it will enrich our entire quality of life in our city, and it will bolster our local economy for generations to come.”
Think boldly, plan collegially and act with a sense of urgency
In 2016, Grand Action commissioned the Grand Rapids Destination Asset Study. The goal of the study was to better understand needed steps to make Grand Rapids a better place to live, work and raise a family.
Studies have shown that maximizing the riverfront is key to city growth (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“[The] study made clear that investments that maximize our riverfront, opened access to green space and outdoor entertainment, and attracted arts, cultural and sporting events would be key to the plan,” said Dick DeVos, Businessman and Grand Action Co-Chair.
Acrisure Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO Greg Williams said he is honored to be part of the amphitheater project and to give back to the community as the title sponsor.
“The ethos of Acrisure is to do big, bold things,” said Williams. “We want to be impactful, and this project certainly personifies and exemplifies that in every way.
“This is a big, impactful project. It’s going to have a real impact on the city itself and the community at large. We’re all going to be benefactors of this.”
Williams went on to say that the amphitheater “won’t be the last thing that we do in this community. This community has been so good to us; we need to be good to it.”
Unprecedented riverfront development
Leading the construction effort of Acrisure Amphitheater is Pioneer Construction.
“At today’s groundbreaking, we kick off two years of construction,” said Tim Schowalter, President and CEO of Pioneer Construction. “We’re very excited and proud to be leading the construction effort of Acrisure Amphitheater.”
That construction will include 9,720 cubic yards of concrete, 436 tons of reinforcing steel in that concrete, and 150,000 cubic yards of sand – 3,750 truck trains – that will create the sloped lawn seating along the northwest side of the site.
The amphitheater will also incorporate 3,130 tons of structural steel.
“To give you an idea, the Eiffel Tower has something in the neighborhood of 7,000 tons of steel,” said Schowalter. “So we’re not quite as big as the Eiffel Tower, but we are going to be just as iconic.”
Over the course of those two years, 700+ construction workers will be employed on the site for a total on-site labor force impact of $55 million. As part of the construction inclusion plan, $6 million of the construction budget will be invested in local minority-owned businesses, women-owned businesses and micro-local business enterprises.
Belief in our community, our people and our future
“I’ve always said that what makes Grand Rapids special is the people,” said Mayor Bliss. “What happens here in Grand Rapids does not happen in other places. It is rare for economic development, business leaders, government leaders, philanthropic leaders and community leaders to come together and coalesce around a single vision for moving our communities together.
The City of Grand Rapids is built on collaborative efforts (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“Grand Rapids, and more broadly Kent County, is a place where that happens. It happens over and over again. And the legacy of our city is built on that.”
Williams agreed. “What’s happening in Grand Rapids doesn’t happen everywhere.”
Acrisure Amphitheatre is a centerpiece of a grand vision to enrich the quality of life for an increasingly diverse community, catalyze significant investments, bring new jobs, inspire entrepreneurial opportunities and drive regional tourism.
“Thank you for sharing the vision that is creating such a wonderful attraction that is bound to inspire people from all walks seeking something remarkable that will give them access to the arts, to a remarkable green space, and our namesake waterfront,” said Carol Van Andel, Philanthropist and Executive Director of the David & Carol Van Andel Family Foundation.
For more information about Acrisure Amphitheater, click here.
Wicked, the untold story of the Witches of Oz, takes the stage at DeVos Performance Hall for their second week of performances (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Wicked, the untold story of the Witches of Oz, is taking the DeVos Performance Hall stage for its second week of performances.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The Tony, Olivier and Grammy Award-winning musical has been dazzling audiences for 20 years. Wicked features music by composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz – and a timeless story.
“It’s timeless,” said Steve Quinn, Wicked Company Manager. “That’s what I love about it. We’re not in Los Angeles 1926, we’re in Oz. You come in, and it’s a magical place.”
A magical phenomenon
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Wicked is one of the most popular Broadway shows on the road. The reason for the production’s popularity, Quinn believes, stems from the corresponding 1939 film The Wizard of Oz.
“We all watched it growing up, and we all have our own memories of The Wizard of Oz,” said Quinn. “We have that as the ground story.
“Our director said that if you take The Wizard of Oz and move the camera this way five feet, that’s our story. What happened before Dorothy dropped in? Is [Elphaba] wicked? Is Glinda good? We explore those themes, and we do it in a very clever way.”
This unique take on that story and the theme of friendship woven throughout the musical creates a timeless work of art that remains relevant as the years pass.
There’s no place like Oz…
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Wicked descended upon DeVos Performance Hall at 8 a.m. on May 13.
The 90-person crew unloaded 13 semi-trailers of equipment into the performance hall and assembled the set, lights and scenery. An additional 20-25 wardrobe and hair crew are hired locally for the duration of the show.
“The most challenging thing [of load-in] is that all of the departments are trying to work at the same time,” said Evan Ensign, Wicked Production Stage Manager. “You’ve got lighting, which needs space, the air show…It’s a lot of pieces.
“As we’re coming in, there is sort of a science to it. There are so many different aspects it takes to get it put in, and to get put in safely.”
And safety is a priority for Ensign.
“We test everything – flying apparatuses – for safety before we put people on things,” said Ensign. “Everybody knows their job, and we make sure that all the different departments get enough time to go through and check all the things that they need to. It’s built into the load-in.”
A real Broadway experience
“Our producers want to make sure that if you are seeing a Broadway show in Grand Rapids, you’re actually seeing a full-mounted production,” said Quinn. “We give you everything. We want to make sure you are getting the same value you would get in New York City.
“And it’s right here in your own backyard.”
Don’t forget the dragon(s)…
Part of that theatrical experience comes in the form of an enormous dragon mounted above the stage. But is there more than one dragon floating around Oz?
“The truth is, there are two dragons,” said Ensign. “They hopscotch cities. There is no way to differentiate which is which.”
A large dragon dominates the top of the stage – but is there only one? (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Audience members are guaranteed an introduction to one of those two dragons at the show. But whether the dragon on that particular day is Ozwald or Norbert…well, that will remain a mystery.
How to experience Wicked
The Broadway musical will run through Sunday, June 2. Tickets are available by calling the Broadway Grand Rapids box office at 616-235-6285 or through Ticketmaster.
The City of Kentwood’s Farmers Market and Summer Concert Series will return for the 2024 season on June 6.
The Farmers Market will run 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. every Thursday from June 6 through Aug. 29 behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. The Summer Concert Series will take place 7 to 8:30 p.m. on select Thursdays on the lawn behind City Hall.
“We’re looking forward to offering more farm fresh goods and great music for our community to enjoy outside City Hall all summer long,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Whether you’re looking to shop for local produce and homemade goods or want a fun night out with friends and loved ones discovering a new band, the Kentwood Farmers Market and Summer Concert Series offer the perfect summer experience.”
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The Farmers Market will provide a variety of local goods for sale, including fresh produce, baked goods, crafts and more. It will feature 20-plus local vendors and include special activities throughout the summer. The market accepts food assistance benefits, including SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks and Senior Project FRESH/Market FRESH. The market’s season sponsors are JCI South Kent and Renewal by Anderson of Greater Michigan, and the market’s artisan sponsor is Metronet.
In addition, community members will have the opportunity to enjoy this year’s Summer Concert Series featuring ten local music groups every Thursday June 6-Aug. 15, skipping July 4 for the annual Kentwood fourth of July Celebration. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair and are welcome to bring their own food, beer and wine to enjoy during the show. Food trucks also will be on-site each week with food and drinks available for purchase.
Brena concert in 2022. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
Diamond sponsors of the concert series include NN Autocam, Inc, Mary Free Bed Orthotics & Prosthetics + Bionics and Macatawa Bank. Gold sponsors of the concert series are Bloom Sluggett, PC, Metronet, MCSA Group, Inc., Renewal by Anderson of Greater Michigan and Sabo PR.
Here’s the full lineup of the free activities, food trucks and concerts:
June 6: Opening day and 10th anniversary celebration of the Kentwood Farmers Market. The Summer Concert Series kicks off with Nathan Walton and the Remedy concert at 7 p.m., playing original soul-rock. Food trucks include PizzaMI, Kool Breze, El Jalapeno and Lazy Man BBQ.
June 13: The Chris Canas Band concert at 7 p.m., performing the blues with food trucks Silver Star Café “Airbourne Burritos,” Sanse Filipino Cuisine, Kona Ice of West Grand Rapids and Patty Matters.
June 20: Grupo Viento concert at 7 p.m., featuring Tejano music. Food trucks include Taste of Toya’s World, Desi’s Tropical Sno Shack, Boujee Bowls and The Falafel Truck.
June 27: Bike Night at the Kentwood Farmers Market featuring additional bike vendors plus a group bike ride. The Summer Concert Series will feature Denise Davis and the Motor City Sensations at 7 p.m., performing R&B, pop, funk, Top 40 hits, soul and classics. Food trucks include El Global Mobile, Lazy Man BBQ, Furniture City Creamery and Dune Buggy.
July 4: No Farmers Market or Summer Concert on July 4, but a full day of activities, including a pancake breakfast, 5k run, carnival, live music, beer tent and fireworks. Details online at kentwood.us/July4
July 11: Roosevelt Diggs concert at 7 p.m., featuring blend of folk, country, blues, bluegrass, and rock-n-roll. Food trucks include Sanse Filipino Cuisine, Kool Breze, Luna Bella’s LLC and Sweet Racks and Smokin Butts BBQ.
July 18: TYPO concert at 7 p.m., playing rock, country, pop and urban favorites. Food trucks include Silver Star Café “Airborne Melts,” PizzaMI, Patty Matters and Kona Ice of West Grand Rapids.
July 25:The Soul Syndicate concert at 7 p.m., performing R&B, funk, soul and Motown medleys. Food trucks include Desi’s Tropical Sno Shack, The Falafel Truck, Dune Buggy and PJW Creole Cuisine.
Aug. 1: The Bootstrap Boys concert at 7 p.m., playing a fresh take on classic country. Food trucks include Street Frites, Kool Breze, Boujee Bowls and Casa de los Abuelos.
Aug. 8: National Farmers Market Week and Watermelon Mania at the Kentwood Farmers Market. MexiCuba concert at 7 p.m., featuring mix of Salsa, merengue, bachata and Cuban traditional music. Food trucks include Skinny Kenny’s BBQ, El Jalapeno, Taste of Toya’s World and Desi’s Tropical Sno Shack
Aug. 15: The Sarena Rae Band concert at 7 p.m., performing soulful original music plus a variety of covers. Food trucks include Dune Buggy, Los Pinches Tacos, Kool Breze and Sanse Filipino Cuisine.
Aug. 22: Dog Days of Summer at the Kentwood Farmers Market featuring additional vendors and services for your furry friends. Food trucks Patty Matters and Desi’s Tropical Sno Shack will be there.
Aug. 19: Back to School Bash at the Kentwood Farmers Market with food trucks Taste of Toya’s World and El Jalapeno.
Parking will be limited at both City Hall and the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Residents can find additional parking at the Kentwood Justice Center, 4740 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood Fire Station 1, 4775 Walma SE, Kentwood Public Works, 5068 Breton Road SE and on-street parking in nearby neighborhoods.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The Kentwood Farmers Market still has a few openings for vendors and volunteers. Individuals who are interested can learn more and apply at KentwoodFarmersMarket.com.
Learn more by watching this video clip: WKTV Journal Managing Editor Cris Greer sits down with Shelby Henshaw of Kentwood Parks and Recreation to talk about upcoming summer events the whole family can enjoy.
Former Indy car driver and The Bachelor contestant Arie Luyendyk Jr. will be competing in the MSR series winged sprint car event at Berlin Raceway this Saturday. (Photo Courtesy, Berlin Raceway/Arie Luyendyk Jr.)
By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
It’s one of the staples of summer in West Michigan and with the weather heating up the action at Berlin Raceway in Marne also is shifting into high gear.
This summer WKTV Journal will be keeping an eye on the happenings at Berlin Raceway. Berlin has a full slate of racing action over the next few months with drivers from all over West Michigan competing including several drivers from Wyoming.
This weekend Berlin Raceway promises plenty of fun for the whole family not only on the race track, but in the stands as well. This Saturday is 80’s retro night at the track and the folks at Berlin are asking everyone to join in on the fun and wear their retro 80’s outfits, tie dye and neon.
On the track, one of the highlights of the evening is the season-opening race in the Must See Racing (MSR) Sprint Series presented by Perfect Parts.
The season opener was originally set for Sandusky Speedway, but was twice cancelled due to rain.
Blonde, Hamilton and McCune featured Saturday
The lineup of drivers entered for the race is an impressive one including defending MSR series champion Jason Blonde and multi-time MSR 2024 feature winners Davey Hamilton Jr. and Jimmy McCune.
The winner of the 30-lap feature will take home $4,000 and the race has attracted drivers from several states. Former Little 500 winners Jeff Bloom and Bobby Santos III are among the drivers entered.
Arie Luyendyk Jr. races Saturday in the Winged Pavement Sprint Car events
Another big name also is slated to compete in the race. Arie Luyendyk Jr. plans to compete in a handful of Winged Pavement Sprint Car events on the MSR series beginning with the season opener this Saturday at Berlin Raceway.
Former Indy car driver and The Bachelor contestant Arie Luyendyk Jr. will race his winged sprint car, sponsored by Jiffy Lube, Saturday at Berlin Raceway. (Courtesy, Berlin Raceway/Arie Luyendyk Jr.)
Luyendyk Jr. announced that he has obtained a partial season sponsorship with Jiffy Lube, His familiar red #25 will now carry Jiffy Lube proudly on the side of the car as well as the top wing.
The second-generation driver is the son of two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Arie Luyendyk Sr. Arie Luyendyk Jr. has had a versatile career and has driven several different cars in his career including events in the Indy Car Series, Stadium Super Trucks, IMSA and Indy Lights cars. Luyendyk Jr. also qualified for the 2006 Indianapolis 500.
Luyendyk Jr. gained additional fame by starring in the ABC television show ‘The Bachelor’ in 2018. He has a huge social media following thanks in part to his appearance on ‘The Bachelor.’
(Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)
Plenty of West Michigan drivers, including Wyoming
While Luyendyk Jr. brings a national name to Berlin Raceway this weekend, plenty of West Michigan drivers and Wyoming drivers have been making news since the racing season kicked off at the end of April. In the Sportsman Division, Ryan Holtzlander of Muskegon is at the top of the standings. Josh Frye of Coopersville is just 20 points behind in second place. Allen Davis of Wyoming is in 11th place in the Sportsman Division and has three top-10 finishes to his credit.
In the 4 Cylinder Division, David Simpson of Hopkins is in first place with two wins to his credit so far while Nathan McNabb of Coopersville is in second place. Richard Succaw of Wyoming is in 17th place.
In the Super Late Model Division, Evan Szotko of Coopersville is in first place followed by Joe Bush of Hastings in second place. Brian Campbell of Wyoming has a top-10 finish in three races this season in the Super Late Model Division and is in ninth place overall in the standings.
In the Limited Late Model Division Tim Greene of Grand Rapids is in first place, followed by Josh Frye of Coopersville, second. Allen Davis of Wyoming is in 14th place and has one top-10 finish in two races.
(Courtesy, Berlin Raceway)
Limited Late Model, Dwarf Cars and Mini Wedge races
Along with the MSR winged sprint cars, this Saturday’s action includes a Limited Late Model race, Dwarf Cars and Mini Wedge race.
The Saturday, May 25 lineup for the Memorial Day Weekend features another packed slate of races including races in the Super Late Models, Limited Late Models, Sportsman, 4 Cylinder and Scrappers Division.
Racing action will continue every week during June, July and August and then on two weekends in September, including September 7 which is Chet Championship Night, and September 21; Monster Truck Throwdown. Among the highlights during the summer are the Money in the Bank feature on June 12, the Ohio Wheelman Superstocks and Ohio Wheelman Modifieds on June 15, an ARCA race June 29, Supermodifieds on July 12 and July 13, and the Tekton 250 Battle of Berlin on August 7.
Gates open for this Saturday’s racing action at 2 p.m. with racing starting at 4 p.m. For more information and all the summer lineups, log on to Berlin Raceway.
Grand Rapids Sweet Adelines Interim Director Judy Westers with their two medals. (Courtesy, Sweet Adelines)
By Grand Rapids Sweet Adelines
greer@wktv.org
Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines (GRSA) took home two medals at the Sweet Adelines Great Lakes Harmony Region 17 contest in Cleveland this past weekend. GRSA won third place Division AA (mid-size choruses) and fourth place overall.
This was Interim Director Judy Westers first time on the contest stage as Music Director.
“Our dream came true on that stage because we worked so hard to be prepared and that gave our singers so much confidence on the contest stage,” Westers said. “I couldn’t be more proud of this chorus for what we accomplished. The bonus was that our audience loved the performance.”
Westers also performed as a baritone with an all-GRSA Quartet, “Chime In,” at the Sweet Adelines contest in Cleveland.
The chorus sang two Disney songs: “When You Wish Upon a Star” and “Almost There.” The Chorus is fortunate to have an “in-house” music arranger, Penny Hock, who adapted both songs for GRSA.
Grand Rapids Sweet Adelines at Region 17 Contest. (Courtesy, Sweet Adelines)
“It is a privilege to be the in-house arranger and be able to adapt an arrangement to fit us perfectively,” said Hock, who’s also the assistant director and a lead for the Chorus.. “It’s the chorus singers who adapt and evolve constantly, until they create the pulse and breathe life into it.”
“GRSA is an energetic A Cappella chorus of nearly 60 women who perform 4-part harmony in the barbershop style of music.” The Chorus has entertained countless audiences across West Michigan and overseas in the Netherlands, Italy and France. GRSA will perform in Ireland and Northern Ireland this Fall.
If you are interested in joining the Chorus, click HERE.
“This is a blatant rip-off of the Funniest Person in Grand Rapids contest that Dr. Grins Comedy Club used to run,” said Brian B. (Brian Borbot), founder and MC of the SNF.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought it deserved its own standup comedy competition with the overall winner getting a prize package worthy of the title the Funniest Person in Wyoming!”
The Kingpin of Comedy winner will receive $500 cash as well as prizes from Wyoming businesses Spectrum Entertainment Complex, Craig’s Cruisers, The Listening Room and Gilda’s Club LaughFest. The winner will also receive a Kingpin bowling pin trophy, a personalized Kingpin bowling shirt, and the opportunity to close at the Sunday Night Funnies LaughFest show in 2025.
The total prize package is over $1,000 in value.
Fifteen years of funny
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. Now in its 15th year, the SNF features weekly live standup comedy performances by a variety of local and national comics.
Admission to the SNF shows at Woody’s Press Box are free. SNF shows take place on Sunday evenings at 7:30 p.m. during winter and spring, and at 8:30 p.m. during summer and early fall.
“Our lineup this year spans so many musical genres, there is something for everyone to enjoy,” said Mayor Kent Vanderwood. “We are looking forward to bringing quality entertainment to the families in our community and hope to continue developing this series.”
(Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
A musical tradition
Each Tuesday evening will feature a food truck with food and beverages available for purchase. Concertgoers are welcome to bring their own food, however alcohol is not permitted in the park.
“We are excited to continue this tradition for our community,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director. “Concerts in the Park are a highlight of summertime in Wyoming. We hope you will grab your blankets, chairs and friends and join us for some fun in the parks!”
All concerts are free of charge and open to the public. Performances start at 6 p.m. and are held at Lamar Park.
Concert Lineup
Cabildo performs at the 2023 Wyoming Concerts in the Park (Courtesy WKTV)
The 2024 concert schedule includes:
June 18 – Whorled
June 25 – Brena
July 9 – Cabildo
July 16 – Sophia McIntosh
July 23 – LVRS
July 30 – Music That Raised Us
For more performance and musician details, click here.
Richard Thomas plays Atticus Finch in the touring production of “To Kill a Mockingbird.” (Photo Courtesy, Julieta Cervantes)
By John Gonzalez
WKTV Contributor
John Gonzalez is a veteran journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a reporter, editor and digital innovator. He co-hosts the statewide radio show “Behind the Mitten with Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. He can be reached at michigangonzo@gmail.com
There’s a harsh reality to the current Broadway tour of Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
What was reality back in the 1930s still lingers today, said actor Christopher Ellis, who stars as prosecutor Horace Gilmer in what some consider the “most successful American play in Broadway history” (60 Minutes).
“This show is relevant. Even though it was 1934, it’s still relevant today, and some of the injustices,” said Ellis in an interview last fall before a tour stop in East Lansing.
The reimagined drama by the acclaimed playwright/screenwriter/film director Aaron Sorkin addresses that head on, he added. His version looks at the play in a new way.
“Like Aaron said … from an African American perspective, this is old news. This is still happening, maybe in different forms, but that type of thing is still happening.”
Maeve Moynihan (Scout Finch) and Jacqueline Williams (Calpurnia). (Photo Courtesy, Julieta Cervantes)
The classic 1960 novel, which later became a film starring Gregory Peck, is about a young girl named Scout Finch and her brother Jem. Set in Alabama, their father, Atticus Finch, defends a black man named Tom Robinson who is accused of a crime he didn’t commit. Scout, Jem and their friend Dill, are curious about the trial and learn important lessons about racism, injustice and empathy.
Sorkin’s stage adaptation of “To Kill a Mockingbird” maintains the core themes and messages of Harper Lee’s original work, according to critics, but introduces some changes in narrative perspective, character development, and storytelling style to make it a distinctive and thought-provoking theatrical experience.
In the end, it’s a story about standing up for what’s right and understanding the importance of seeing the world from other people’s perspectives.
The tour has made a couple of Michigan stops before coming to Grand Rapids. It played in October at MSU’s Wharton Center in East Lansing. It also finished a run last month at the Fisher Theatre in Detroit.
This is the national tour’s third leg of dates after successful runs that started back in April of 2022. Ellis was on that first tour, which starred Emmy Award-winning actor Richard Thomas (“The Waltons”) as Atticus Finch.
Ellis said that Thomas remains a fixture on the tour and has been a key factor to the tour’s success. As one reviewer said: “Richard Thomas as Atticus Finch is at the height of his career.”
Richard Thomas (Atticus Finch) and the Company of “To Kill a Mockingbird” in a courtroom scene. (Photo Courtesy, Julieta Cervantes)
Ellis speaks highly of the actor we all remember as John-Boy Walton of the long-running TV series “The Waltons.”
Ellis said: “What you see is what you get. He is a great leader. He’s fun to work with. He’s fun to play with. I have nothing but praise for this man. I’m a fan.”
Plus, he has a sincere way of “immediately embracing everybody” in the cast.
“He’s inspiring us to tell this story all across the nation, and he’s still having a blast with it. Every night he’s on stage you can tell.”
Originally from Idaho, Ellis attended Wayne State University’s Hillberry Program in Detroit for three years, “which was a good training ground because it was a rotating rep, so you would go to classes in the morning and rehearsals in the afternoon.”
After graduating with an MFA in 2012, he did Utah Shakespeare Theatre and also moved to Chicago where his wife teaches high school drama. They have two teenage children. He also does a lot of Dick Wolf TV shows “where I play a cop a lot on ‘Chicago Fire PD.’”
Overall, Ellis said he hopes everyone comes out to see “To Kill a Mockingbird.” It’s compelling to those who already know the story, and it’s timely for those who only have a passing reference to the show.
If past audiences are any indication of the show’s powerful impact, he said, “people are going to enjoy” it.
“It’s well worth it to come. I know I’m in the show, but I cannot recommend it enough. People NEED to see this show.
“It’s taking this story to new audiences that might not see this perspective,” Ellis said. “This is not something that has gone away. This is not something (where you say) ‘oh, that was way back then; it’s different now.’ It’s just changed form.
“These audiences, who might not go to Broadway, get to experience this, and I think this story is very relevant. Every day. Still is.”
IF YOU GO:
Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” A new play by Aaron Sorkin When: April 23-28, 2024 Where: DeVos Performance Hall Tickets: Variety of price levels More info:broadwaygrandrapids.com
Performance Times: Tuesday, April 23, 2024 – 7:30pm Wednesday, April 24, 2024 – 7:30pm Thursday, April 25, 2024 – 7:30pm Friday, April 26, 2024 – 7:30pm Saturday, April 27, 2024 – 2:00pm Saturday, April 27, 2024 – 7:30pm Sunday, April 28, 2024 – 1:00pm Sunday, April 28, 2024 – 6:30pm Show Info: tokillamockingbirdbroadway.com
IMPORTANT SIDEBAR:
In anticipation of “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Broadway Grand Rapids sent an email to its subscribers about the show’s subject matter, as well as links to a series of videos.
In the email to subscribers, it said:
“As we prepare for the upcoming performances of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ we want to extend an understanding and supportive hand to those who may not be familiar with the story or its themes, or for whom it’s been some time since encountering it.
“Recognizing the sensitivity of the topics addressed, we’ve sought insights from prominent thought leaders in West Michigan. They offer valuable perspectives on why this performance is worth your time and consideration. Additionally, they encourage you to take proactive steps to educate yourself about the narrative beforehand.
“Ultimately, our hope is that you’ll come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation for its themes, as well as valuable insights into the human experience.”
Sonya Hughes Video
A conversation with Sonya Hughes, Principal at Inclusive Outcomes LLC: Hughes discusses the novel’s enduring relevance in fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Skot Welch Video
A discussion with Skot Welch, President/Founder of Global Bridgebuilders: Welch encourages Broadway Grand Rapids patrons to educate themselves on the subject matter and race dialogue surrounding the show’s performance.
Jon March Video
Jon March is Of Counsel at the law firm of Miller Johnson, which is the exclusive sponsor of “To Kill a Mockingbird.” March is also a community actor having previously played the role of Atticus Finch. He shares why he connects to the role so deeply and why he believes the show will inspire other young attorneys.
“There are more than 117 million Americans age 50 and older – 35% of the total population. I wanted to do a special show to honor and represent that age group,” says Brian B., founder and MC of the SNF. “This is the second year of special performances to recognize specific groups.
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
“In February, we did our special Black History Month show. In March, it was our Women’s History Month and Gilda’s Club of Grand Rapids LaughFest performances. The SNF is a melting pot of comedians and audience members – different ages, nationalities, so why not honor all the groups that make up the show?”
The Older Americans Month lineup consists of seven different comedians at least 50 years of age. The show will feature former local radio personality Jojo Girard closing out the show. Also featured will be Detroit area comic Kathy Ryan, comedians from Ohio, and various local talent.
“The Sunday Night Funnies has got a big 2024 going on,” said Brian B.
In addition to the the Older Americans Month show, the following Sunday (May 12) will kick off SNF’s seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition.
15 years of SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. Now in its 15th year, the SNF is a weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring over 1,200 performances from comics across Michigan and around the country.
The SNF is a free admission show on Sunday nights at 7:30 p.m. during the winter/spring, and at 8:30 p.m. during summer and early fall. All performances take place at Woody’s Pressbox inside The Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is pleased to announce the complete 2024 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens lineup, featuring 33 unique shows.
This lineup reflects our continued commitment since 2003 to bringing a diverse array of internationally renowned artists to the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater.
Black Pumas (Courtesy, Jody Domingue)
The Gardens and Sculpture Park, featuring works from internationally acclaimed artists, and lively acoustics create an intimate concert setting for guests of all ages. From its manicured general admission lawn seating to the ivy growing on the stage, the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater is the ideal summer setting for experiencing live music from world-class acts, right here in West Michigan.
Free and convenient on-site parking and the ability for concertgoers to bring a picnic or enjoy unique concessions offerings highlight the Meijer Gardens concert experience.
“We are delighted to present another summer of world-class live music in the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater,” said Charles Burke, President & CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
“We’re extremely thankful to the entire Meijer family, Fifth Third Bank, Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids, Corewell Health, Grand Rapids Symphony, the Steve and Amy Van Andel Foundation, and all our partners for their commitment in helping make this series possible and allowing us to welcome more people to experience the arts at Meijer Gardens.”
NEW ticketing provider
Meijer Gardens is also happy to announce AXS as the new ticketing provider for the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series.
Orville Peck (Courtesy, FMG)
All tickets will be sold at AXS.com—and with AXS Mobile ID, your phone is your ticket. The move to AXS Mobile ID is designed to ensure a smooth purchasing experience, put tickets in the hands of our guests, and reduce ticket resale from unauthorized sites.
AXS Mobile ID is a digital ticketing technology that provides the flexibility and convenience of safely and securely managing tickets online or in the AXS mobile app.
AXS Mobile ID allows for convenience, flexibility, and security. Guests can manage tickets digitally, transfer tickets when needed, and remain assured that all tickets are authentic and secure. Guests are encouraged to set up an account at any time at AXS.com.
To help members and the public prepare for buying tickets, Meijer Gardens has created an Insider’s Guide to aid in making the ticket purchasing experience hassle-free.
Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens Lineup
Gate and show start times vary. Information and lineup subject to change. All shows take place rain or shine. Weather delays are possible.
Little Feat + Los Lobos (Courtesy, FMG)
Orville Peck with Durand Jones and Debbii Dawson, Wednesday, June 5: $57 presale | $60 member | $62 public
Greensky Bluegrass, Sunday, June 9: $68 presale | $71 member | $73 public
Tower of Power, Wednesday, June 12: $59 presale | $62 member | $64 public
O.A.R., Thursday, June 20: $82 presale | $85 member | $87 public Little Feat + Los Lobos, Friday, June 21: $75 presale | $78 member | $80 public Black Pumas with Abraham Alexander, Sunday, June 23: $80 presale | $83 member | $85 public Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue with Devon Gilfillian, Monday, June 24: $75 presale | $78 member | $80 public Bonnie Raitt with James Hunter, Wednesday, June 26: $99 presale | $102 member | $104 public Mat Kearney with Donovan Frankenreiter, Sunday, June 30: $54 presale | $57 member | $59 public My Morning Jacket, Monday, July 1: $77 presale | $80 member | $82 public Amos Lee with Mikaela Davis, Wednesday, July 3: $65 presale | $68 member | $70 public Old Crow Medicine Show with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Wednesday, July 10: $67 presale | $70 member | $72 public Bruce Hornsby with Grand Rapids Symphony, Thursday, July 11: $67 presale | $70 member | $72 public The Temptations + The Four Tops, Friday, July 12: $79 presale | $82 member | $84 public Jason Mraz, Wednesday, July 17: $95 presale | $98 member | $100 public The Wallflowers, Thursday, July 18: $45 presale | $48 member | $50 public Warren Haynes with Grand Rapids Symphony, Monday, July 22: $70 presale | $73 member | $75 public Charley Crockett, Wednesday, July 24: $60 presale | $63 member | $65 public Il Divo, Thursday, July 25: $69 presale | $72 member | $74 public Boyz II Men, Sunday, July 28: $130 presale | $133 member | $135 public Black Violin with Grand Rapids Symphony, Thursday, August 1: $65 presale | $68 member | $70 public Gin Blossoms + Toad the Wet Sprocket + Vertical Horizon, Monday, August 5: $78 presale | $81 member | $83 public Kansas, Thursday, August 8: $79 presale | $82 member | $84 public Andrew Bird + Amadou & Mariam, Friday, August 9: $63 presale | $66 member | $68 public Five For Fighting, Sunday, August 11: $53 presale | $56 member | $58 public Blues Traveler + Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Wednesday, August 14: $75 presale | $78 member | $80 public Grace Potter, Sunday, August 18: $55 presale | $58 member | $60 public Fitz and The Tantrums, Thursday, August 22: $55 presale | $58 member | $60 public Leslie Odom, Jr., Thursday, August 29: $70 presale | $73 member | $75 public Sierra Ferrell with Meredith Axelrod, Friday, September 6: $50 presale | $53 member | $55 public Michael Franti & Spearhead, Sunday, September 8: $65 presale | $68 member | $70 public Buena Vista Social Orchestra, Sunday, September 15: $50 presale | $53 member | $55 public Keb’ Mo’ + Shawn Colvin, Monday, September 16: $60 presale | $63 member | $65 public
Members presale
Members may buy tickets during the members-only presale beginning 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, through midnight on Friday, April 26.
Grace Potter (Courtesy, Adrien Broom)
Members save $5 per ticket during the presale. After April 27, members save $2 per ticket. There is a limit of six tickets per show.
To join or renew a Meijer Gardens membership before April 20, click here or call the Membership Department at 616-977-7689.
Tickets can be purchased online at AXS.com. A $5 fee per ticket and 3% credit card fee per order is added.
Public ticket sale
Sales to the public begin at 9 am on Saturday, April 27. There is a limit of six tickets per show. Tickets can be purchased online at AXS.com. A $10 fee per ticket and 3% credit card fee per order is added.
Ticket purchasers are encouraged to receive and manage their tickets via the AXS mobile app. A $15 processing fee will be added for those who wish to have their tickets mailed to them by AXS. There will be a $6 processing fee for ticket purchasers who choose Will Call as their method of delivery.
Details about the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater
Leslie Odom Jr. (Courtesy, FMG)
The 1,900-seat Amphitheater Garden features general admission tiered lawn seating. Concertgoers are welcome to bring a blanket or low-rise chair to sit on. Low-rise chairs are defined as 12” maximum from front of seat bottom to ground and 32” maximum to top of chair back in highest position.
These rules are strictly enforced. No other chairs will be permitted in the venue. A limited number of standard-height chairs located in designated areas are available to rent for $10 on a first-come, first-served basis and may not be removed.
A selection of sandwiches, snacks, water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available at the Eileen DeVries Concessions Center. Concertgoers are also welcomed to bring their own food, sealed bottled water and nonalcoholic beverages in their original sealed non-glass containers. Soft-sided coolers that do not exceed 25 quarts or 14″x14″x14″ are permitted.
Weapons are not allowed. All guests, bags and coolers are subject to search prior to entering the venue.
Concert series sponsors and career opportunities
The Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series is sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids, Corewell Health, Life EMS and US Golf Cars. Media sponsors are Star 105.7 and FOX17.
Join our team! Meijer Gardens has a variety of career openings, both full and part time. Please visit MeijerGardens.org/careers for a full listing of opportunities.
WKTV Government Channel 26 is offering live coverage of the upcoming total solar eclipse!
Tune in Monday, April 8 from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. and see this stunning solar display live from NASA’s view.
Experience this amazing event with us as a total solar eclipse moves across Mexico, the United States and Canada, and see incredible views from various sites along its path.
Coverage of the eclipse courtesy of NASA TV. For more information about the eclipse, go to www.nasa.gov.
Young and old fans alike were able to meet Grand Rapids Gold basketball players at a recent Fan Appreciation Night on March 30.
GR Gold players wrapped up the 2023-2024 season with a game against Capital City Go-Go at the Van Andel Arena.
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Fans received a free Gold pendant on a chain, presented by Founders Brewing Co. during their Gold Chain Giveaway.
After the game, Gold players lined up down the length of the court and signed autographs for fans.
Join the Gold excitement!
The Official NBA G League Affiliate of the Denver Nuggets, GR Gold provides ample opportunities for fans to enjoy the excitement of basketball. Fans can purchase tickets through a variety of options including season ticket memberships, 6-game plans, group packages and single-game tickets.
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
GR Gold also hosts an annual summer camp, the Grand Rapids Gold Basketball Academy, for interested youth. Registration for the 2024 summer camp can be found here.
For more Grand Rapids Gold information and events, click here.
A celestial phenomenon will sweep across North America and the Northern Midwest on Monday, April 8, 2024 – and Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is inviting visitors to join them inside and outside the Museum for an eclipse viewing party.
Supported by WOOD TV8, this event will feature live streams from the path of totality on the Meijer Theatre with commentary from Museum staff, a special planetarium show schedule, astronomy-themed activities with community partners, and access to solar telescopes on the Blue Bridge with the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association (GRAA).
What is a solar eclipse?
An eclipse is defined as a phenomenon where the moon passes in front of the sun, blocking it completely and casting a shadow onto our planet.
Two things need to occur at once to see a solar eclipse: the sun, moon, and earth need to be in a straight line, with the moon between the sun and earth; and you need to be standing in the correct spot on earth.
What you need to know
(Courtesy, GRPM)
All eclipse events inside the GRPM are free with general admission. Telescope access along the Blue Bridge is free to the public.
Protective eyewear is necessary to view the eclipse safely. Eclipse glasses are available for purchase in The Curiosity Shop while supplies last for $1.75. The Curiosity Shop is open to the public, no admission required.
Don’t miss this opportunity!
(Courtesy, Amanda Pitts)
April 8 will be the last chance to witness an eclipse this close to Michigan for decades.
Observe the awe of a total solar eclipse as it graces North America, journeying from Mexico, cutting through states like Texas, Oklahoma, and reaching 100% coverage in Ohio and Indiana, before continuing through the Northeast and entering Canada.
Find GRPM Total Eclipse Day viewing party and event details here.
Find more solar eclipse information and GIF animations here.
“The Sunday Night Funnies has always been a diverse show,” says Brian B., MC and Founder of the SNF. “I wanted to celebrate the contribution women comedians have brought to the show through the years.”
Brian B. went on to say that, locally, women performing standup comedy was rare.
“Over the course of the last few years, that number has been steadily growing,” Brian B. says. “We’re featuring seven extremely funny women comics for this show.”
The lineup
The March 3 special performance will feature Grand Rapids comedian Kim Cook, a Second City alumni and semifinalist in the 2022 Kingpin of Comedy competition; Nicole Melnyk, voted Lansing’s Best Comic three times; Lauren Corbett; Cheryl Stoner; Amanda VK; and SNF first-timers Lucky Lee and Cinda DeBolt.
Lucky Lee (Courtesy, SNF)
Kim Cook (Courtesy, SNF)
Cheryl Stoner (Courtesy, SNF)
Amanda VK (Courtesy, SNF)
Cinda DeBolt (Courtesy, SNF)
Lauren Corbett (Courtesy, SNF)
Nicole Melnyk (Courtesy, SNF)
Mark your calendars for upcoming SNF events!
The following Sunday, March 10, is SNF’s annual LaughFest show. Comics 50+ will celebrate Older American Month with a show on Sunday, May 5. Soon after will be the start of SNF’s sixth annual Kingpin of Comedy competition.
About SNF
The creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. (Brian Borbot), the SNF is a weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring a variety of comics from Michigan and around the country.
Gilda’s LaughFest is in need of volunteers to support the 2024 festival set for March 6-10.
Volunteer Registration
Volunteers can help in numerous ways leading up to and during the festival. There is no minimum requirement regarding amount of time or number of events needed to volunteer.
General volunteers can help with ushering, ticket-taking collecting donations, and wayfinding. Specialized volunteers are needed to photograph events (Photo Team); run audio, video and lights (Production Team); move supplies and people (Transportation Team); and more.
Those interested in volunteering can register at laughfestgr.org/volunteer/. New and returning volunteers can register through Feb. 16. Orientation will be provided for all volunteers on Feb. 17.
LaughFest 2024 Details
Shows and entertainers announced for the 14th annual LaughFest include: Tammy Pescatelli, Josh Johnson, Piff the Magic Dragon, Demetri Martin, and returning festival favorite – the Clean Comedy Showcase.
LaughFest 2024 includes over 40 free and ticketed shows in Grand Rapids, Holland, Lowell and Wayland’s Gun Lake Casino.
LaughFest individual tickets are available for purchase at laughfestgr.org, and at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids pop-up LaughFest stores from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Feb. 17 and March 2.
Proceeds from LaughFest and LaughFest’s High Five campaign support the free cancer and grief emotional health program offered through Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids.
The Rapid transit system provides a seamless bus network connecting visitors to and from downtown Grand Rapids.
DASH offers free rides around downtown every 15 minutes. Download the ‘Transit‘ app for the nearest stop and real-time info.
Area 9 Parking is also available for just $3 a day, and offer use of a free shuttle.
Many installations have lights that give a different look and feel to the exhibit during night hours (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Accessibility
It is advised to refer to each individual event for accessibility information.
Crowd sizes fluctuate and may impede visibility of certain installations for individuals with mobility issues. Most locations provide sidewalk accessibility. However, some installations are in park areas without pavement pathways. Please use caution during your visit.
WoW continues to work to make the festival experience as accessible as possible for all visitors, and are looking at accessibility improvements for the 2025 WoW festival.
Plan your visit ahead of time so you don’t miss out on any fun activities or art installations (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Snow gear tips
Elevate your WoW experience by being prepared with winter essentials! See the recommended list of gear from the WoW team.
This list is recommended but not required to attend or enjoy the festival.
Snow gear checklist:
Base Layers like leggings or long sleeved shirts (Wool/Silk/Polypropylene over Cotton)
Snow Pants (or a pair of pants over your bottom base layers)
“The Sunday Night Funnies has always been a diverse show,” said MC and SNF Founder Brian B. (Brian Borbot). “When putting together the lineup each week, I try to have a good mix of comedians-be it race, gender, or age-range. I think our audience appreciates that.
“I wanted to celebrate the contribution Black comedians have brought to the show through the years.”
The special show features six comics: Brianna Blackburn, a local favorite who has been part of several LaughFest shows; Sunday Night Funnies’ Kingpin of Comedy competition finalists JT Motley, Marcus Cusic and Silas Haley; Dionte Allen from Ohio; and Michael Chandler, a relative newcomer to the local scene.
Brianna Blackburn (Courtesy, Brian B.)
Michael Chandler (Courtesy, Brian B.)
Dionte Allen (Courtesy, Brian B.)
Silas Haley (Courtesy, Brian B.)
Marcus Cusic (Courtesy, Brian B.)
JT Motley (Courtesy, Brian B.)
But wait – there’s more!
“The Sunday Night Funnies has got a big 2024 planned,” said Brian B. “In addition to the Black History Month show, March 3 will feature a special all-women comedian show in honor of Women’s History Month.”
The following Sunday, March 10 is the SNF’s LaughFest show. Sunday, May 5 will be a celebration of Older American Month featuring comics ages 50 and up. Then begins the sixth annual Kingpin of Comedy competition.
About the SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B.
A weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring a variety of comics from Michigan and around the country, the SNF is a free admission show that starts at 7:30 p.m. and is performed at the Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
Experience the enchanting allure of the classical ballet, Sleeping Beauty. Grand Rapids Ballet will perform the cherished tale at DeVos Performance Hall Feb. 23-25.
A traditional tale come to life
Sleeping Beauty shares the traditional tale of Princess Aurora.
From her birth, a curse by the evil fairy Carabosse foretells Aurora’s demise on her sixteenth birthday. Aurora enters a profound slumber, only to be awakened by true love’s kiss, as orchestrated by the benevolent Lilac Fairy.
(Courtesy, Kansas City Ballet / Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios)
With Devon Carney’s exquisite choreography that pays homage to Marius Petipa, the production will be accompanied by a live Grand Rapids Symphony performance of Tchaikovsky’s exceptional score.
Gorgeous costumes, sumptuous sets, and breathtaking dancing are a hallmark of this family-friendly classical ballet performance.
Come and celebrate!
In addition to the ballet, Sleeping Beauty’s Birthday Party will be held on Feb. 25 at DeVos Performance Hall.
(Courtesy, Kansas City Ballet / Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios)
The memorable royal gathering will be held from 12-1 p.m. Party guests can create enchanted crafts to take home, enjoy sweet treats, and meet Grand Rapids Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty.
Party wear, crowns and sparkles are encouraged to help celebrate Princess Aurora’s sweet sixteen.
Curated by the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, “Concerts Under the Stars” is an immersive full-dome concert experience highlighting local musicians and visual artists.
Local West Michigan bands will perform their music, enhanced by original video art projected onto the Planetarium’s 50-foot dome. Upcoming local visual artists collaborate with the musicians to weave together an exclusive concert experience.
First to take the stage
GRPM is kicking off the 2024 series on Jan. 11 and 12 with Silent Spirit, a Grand Rapids electronic music sensation. Silent Spirit combines synthesis and contemplative rhythms to create organic atmospheres and reflective environments.
Performances will be accompanied by a full-dome visual display presented by local artist, iVy Garvey.
Attendees are invited to explore their inner selves and imagine themselves immersed in a world drawn from inspiration of the natural world.
Must-know details
Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Visitors are invited to explore the Museum’s first two floors of exhibits during the cocktail hour before the concert.
Visitors can grab a drink and explore the first two floors of GRPM before the concerts (Courtesy, GRPM)
Performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer, and other beverages will be available for purchase.
Parking is available through GVSU and the Museum’s parking ramp and will be validated for GRPM parking ramp guests.
Tickets are $20, with discounted pricing of $16 for GRPM members. Children must attend with an adult.
Details for February and March performances can be found here.
*Please be aware that shows may contain bright lights or dizzying visuals.
WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed went behind the scenes with author Chavonne Mateen and her debut novel, Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots, on WKTV Soundbites (Courtesy, WKTV)
Set in an urban magical realm, Mateen’s middle grade novel contains everything the author loves about the fantasy genre – and about life.
“I have always been a huge fan of fantasy fiction,” said Mateen, adding that the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling and the Children of Blood and Bone series by Tomi Adeyemi are among her favorite reads.
When not writing, Mateen fills her time as an HR Technologist for HRIS Streamline Consulting, is an Associate Integration Consultant for iCIMS, and is a self-professed serial entrepreneur.
Already living a life busy with the HR works she loves, this reporter couldn’t resist asking Mateen about the driving force behind her desire to pen a novel.
Living life to the fullest
“People go on journeys in life,” said Mateen. “One day I was writing down things I wanted to accomplish. Starting a business was one, finishing school was another, and writing a rap.
“The next one was to write a book. That’s how this was born.”
Mateen talked with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed about what lies at the heart of her debut novel (Courtesy, WKTV)
Not only did Mateen decide to write a book, she decided to create something groundbreaking that was also relatable.
Mateen wanted to write what she deemed was missing in the fantasy genre – a series featuring a beautiful, strong and present family that sticks together.
“I decided that I wanted to write something that I could relate to,” said Mateen. “This is more in an urban setting, and it’s characters that I can relate to.”
Shaylah’s journey is one of self-discovery.
Suddenly inundated with nightly visions of her deceased grandfather, Shaylah begins asking her mother some hard questions. As long-kept family secrets are revealed, the young teen realizes that she also holds magical powers and abilities.
Mateen chats about Shaylah Marston merchandise and fan art (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“When they begin telling her these secrets, that’s when the story begins to unfold and the magic occurs,” said Mateen.
The young heroine embarks on a mission with her family and friends, intent on saving a distant world and restoring her family’s name.
With a diverse cast of characters and a relatable and inspiring protagonist, Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots weaves powerful themes of friendship, courage and self-discovery throughout its pages.
Deemed “an exhilarating coming-of-age extravaganza” and “unapologetic fantasy fiction at its finest” by beta readers, Mateen’s novel will transport readers to a world brimming with adventure.
Interested readers can visit Mateen’s website to pre-order a copy of the novel, sign up for notifications regarding Shaylah Marston events and news, and purchase Shaylah Marston merchandise.
But Mateen isn’t stopping there.
Big screen goals
Bringing Shaylah Marston to the big screen as a Netflix series is a goal Mateen is already working to set in motion.
“That’s the ultimate goal, to bring it to the big screen, bring it to life, and bring the awareness to Grand Rapids that we do have offerings and more creatives in this space,” said Mateen.
Expanding worlds, chasing dreams
Mateen is currently working on the second Shaylah Marston novel (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Mateen plans to expand Shaylah Marston’s world through writing, though she admits that the writing process is not always easy.
“I’ve experienced roadblocks, setbacks, tumbles and stumbles,” said Mateen.
But she doesn’t let that stop her, and she encourages others to push through those difficulties as well.
“Just continue to write,” said Mateen. “Pick up that pen. If you don’t have a pen, pick up your phone. Jot those ideas down. You can always revisit and expand on it, but you have to start somewhere and keep at it because it’s a work in progress.
“It’s not going to always be perfect. But continue pressing forward.”
To learn more about Shaylah Marston and the Rogue Roots, visit the Shaylah Marston website and Facebook page.
From their GRAMMY® Award-winning 2004 Go Tell It on the Mountain and 2014 Talkin’ Christmas albums, this holiday performance has thrilled sell-out audiences across the United States.
Executive & Artistic Director of SCMC Cathy Holbrook says, “We are so excited to present the 5-time GRAMMY® Award-winning Blind Boys of Alabama in concert at SCMC this holiday season! Royce Auditorium will be filled with joy during their performance on December 5.”
Raising roofs and crossing boundaries
The Blind Boys of Alabama perform live shows that are roof-raising musical events that appeal to audiences of all cultures. The Blind Boys are known for crossing multiple musical boundaries with their remarkable interpretations of everything from traditional gospel favorites to contemporary spiritual material.
Since the original members first sang together as kids at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind in the late 1930s, the band has persevered through seven decades to become one of the most recognized and decorated roots music groups in the world.
“Seeing the Blind Boys of Alabama in concert is part living history, part concert, all uplifting experience…the best moments come when the group join forces for stirring harmonies,” claims The Washington Post.
Achieving dreams and world recognition
The Blind Boys’ career spans over 75 years (Courtesy Photo)
The Blind Boys’ music has not only endured, but thrived during seven decades of world events and is recognized worldwide as living legends and modern-day innovators.
Band members Jimmy “Jimster” Carter, Ricky McKinnie, Paul Beasley, Rev. Julius Love, newest addition Sterling Glass, and led by Music Director and lead guitarist Joey Williams helped create a new gospel sound for the 21st century.
Celebrated by The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) with Lifetime Achievement Awards, and inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Blind Boys of Alabama are also winners of fiveGRAMMY® Awards.
Tickets for The Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show are $60, $45 and $30 at scmcgr.org or by calling 616-459-2224.
Season tickets for the Circle Theatre 2024 productions are now on sale (Courtesy, Circle Theatre)
By Deborah Reed
WKTV Managing Editor
deborah@wktv.org
Circle Theatre in Grand Rapids celebrates 2024 with their 71st season of Main Stage productions and Summer Concert Series.
Dedicated to enriching the quality of life in West Michigan, Circle Theatre uses an intimate setting and exceptional theatrical arts to educate and entertain.
(Courtesy, Circle Theatre)
The only community theatre in West Michigan specializing in summer theatre, the Theatre allows community performers of all ages to hone their craft. The Theatre also provides employment for directors, choreographers, musicians, designers and technicians.
Circle Theatre boasts more than 300 loyal volunteers and employs approximately 127 local independent contractors annually. Circle also provides nine paid internships to college students, three college scholarships, and arts scholarships to children grades PreK-8 each year. An Environmental Leadership contest for ages 6-14 is also available.
How it all began
Grand Rapids Community Summer Theatre, also known as Circle at the Rowe, was founded in 1952 by Norma Brink, Ted Brink and Sydney Spayde. Its first season was held in 1953.
The Rowe Hotel housed the Theatre for eight years. Due to the shape of the rented room, the play performance area was arena-style with the audience seated around the actors.
Over the years, Circle moved to various other locations, finally finding a home at the Pavilion in John Ball Park for 40 years. Growing audiences and a need for more technically adequate facilities, Circle Theatre searched for a new home and found a partnership with Catholic Secondary Schools and Aquinas College, opening of a new Performing Arts Center at the College in 2003.
Purchasing tickets
Tickets for the 2024 season can be purchased online at circletheatre.org, the box office at 616-456-6656, or in person at the box office (1703 Robinson Road SE, Grand Rapids).
SNF’s Kingpin of Comedy competition enters its final round Oct. 29 with the final nine comedians (Brian B. SNF)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
The original lineup of 91 comedians is now down to nine as the Sunday Night Funnies Kingpin of Comedy competition enters its final round Sunday, Oct. 29.
“We have a good mix of comedians performing in the finals this year,” says Brian B., MC and founder of the Sunday Night Funnies (SNF). “The Grand Rapids metro area is obviously represented, but we also have a comic from Niles, Michigan, one from Detroit – even one from Canada!
Sunday Night Funnies presents Kingpin of Comedy competition (Courtesy, Brian B. SNF)
The lineup is diverse too. Not only in terms of race, but age-range as well with comedians in their 20s up to sixty years old.”
Along with the nine competing comics, comedian Seth Lee – the 2022 Kingpin of Comedy winner – will close the show while votes are counted.
“Seeing that Wyoming is the 14th largest city in Michigan, I thought that the eventual winner deserved a prize package worthy of the title Most Humorous Person In Town,” said Brian B. “The package includes prizes from local businesses including Craig’s Cruisers, LaughFest, Midtown GR, and from the host of the show Spectrum Entertainment Complex.
“The winner will also receive $500 cash, a tricked-out bowling pin trophy and a personalized Kingpin bowling shirt. The total prize package is valued close to $1,000.”
The SNF is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. A weekly live stand-up comedy performance, SNF features a variety of comics from Michigan and across the country.
SNF performances are a free admission shows beginning at 7:30 p.m. and performed at the Spectrum Entertainment Complex, 5656 Clyde Park SW, in Wyoming.
WKTV will air Fadiman’s 42-minute insightful documentary on WKTV 25 Monday, Oct. 9 at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct.11 at 2:30 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m.
“A moving work of art…”
Fadiman’s film has been described as both “heartbreaking” and “eyeopening” by Nancy Stapp of KVOT, New Mexico. “A ‘must see’ to understand how fragile our democracy is and how important it is that we stay awake and be informed,” said Stapp.
Personal stories demonstrate how minority communities are using their voting rights as they participate more fully in elections. These stories capture the growing awareness and activism taking root across the United States.
Each segment of the film depicts challenges faced by Native communities, actions taken to protect their rights, and outcomes of their efforts.
What viewers can expect
The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 stipulated that Native Americans born in the United States were automatically citizens by birth (Courtesy, Concentric Media)
Along with the historical chronicling of the Native American suffrage movement, the documentary follows the Laguna Pueblo’s groundbreaking project that led to significant positive changes in New Mexico state election law.
RECLAIMING Their VOICE also documents The Pueblo Revolt (1680), Wounded Knee (1890), The Sacred Alliance for Grassroots Equality’s (SAGE) fight to protect the sacred art of the Petroglyph National Monument, the passage of legislation to ensure greater election security for Native Americans, and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.
Fadiman’s work has been hailed as a model for how other minority populations can work together to gain political justice, and won the Best New Mexico Film Award at the Duke City Doc Festival in 2010.
The Michigan Small Business Development Center presents Pitch Black Grand Rapids, a pitch competition for Black business owners (Courtesy, MI-SBDC)
By Deborah Reed
deborah@wktv.org
In an effort to uplift the Black business community, the Michigan Small Business Development Center (MI-SBDC) has announced a Grand Rapids pitch competition on Thursday, Sept. 28.
The Pitch Black competition began in 2021 in response to the detrimental effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on Black-owned businesses in Muskegon County. Pitch Black is now coming to Grand Rapids and will focus on Black-owned businesses operating in Kent County.
Business owners will have a chance to present their pitch to a panel of judges for a chance at a cash prize (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)
“It’s sort of like Shark Tank meets America’s Got Talent,” explained Ed Garner, West Michigan Regional Director for the MI-SBDC. “It will be on an auditorium stage in a game show style fashion.”
Twenty Black business owners were selected from a pool of applicants to be Pitch Black contestants. All contestants received pitch training in preparation for a preliminary round presentation to a panel of Black Judges.
Five to seven contestants will then be chosen as finalists and pitch for their share of $10,000 in front of a live studio audience.
“It’s our way of uplifting the Black business community and is part of our DEI initiative called Uplift Michigan™, a strategic movement designed to ensure equitable access for all diverse entrepreneurs across Michigan,” said Garner.
Bringing culture and personal awareness
Bertina Polk, owner of My Little Love Bugs Childcare LLC, applied for Pitch Black to bring awareness to early childhood education in the African American culture.
Polk remembers being teased because of the darkness of her skin, kinkiness of her hair, and her broad nose.
“It always made me wonder if I was good enough,” said Polk.
Seeing her own traumatic childhood memories repeated in following generations of children as young as preschool age bothered Polk.
Bertina Polk’s childcare business teaches children to have confidence in who they are (Courtesy, Bertina Polk)
“It hurts my heart that these babies are going to school not knowing who they are, the importance of their existence, their value, and being proud of their culture and the skin they are in,” said Polk. “I pride myself on the fact that my daycare has a strong emphasis and focus on making sure that our children know that their black is beautiful.”
Polk does this by building a daily childcare routine that focuses on self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-esteem.
“Childhood trauma can turn into adulthood trauma,” said Polk. “Being hurtful and mean to children can ruin self-esteem in the very early stages of life.”
Whether Polk is a winner of a cash prize or not, she considers it a blessing to bring awareness to issues that young African American children encounter. She is also thankful for the opportunity to gather information that will help her grow her business.
“I’ve learned a lot after doing research about the African American culture and how it affects our children in the Early Childhood stages,” said Polk.
If Polk receives a cash prize, she plans to use it to move and expand her childcare facility.
Having located the building she wants for the new facility, Polk is already working with other agencies to provide funding for a playground, educational materials for children, as well as training for staff.
“This will give me the opportunity to grow from the family group daycare into a center, and I’ll be able to provide more services to our community and our African American children,” said Polk.
More than just a business
Reggie Macon, owner of martial arts school Battle Ground JKD LLC, joined the Pitch Black competition after it was suggested to him by a client.
At Battle Ground, Reggie Macon (center) is focused on helping women and children defend themselves (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)
“Of course, the [prize] money sounds good, but I was also intrigued by the information I could potentially get from [the competition],” said Macon. “If anything, I can get some great information on how I can move forward with the business.”
Macon’s primary objective, however, is to share his passion of martial arts with youth and women.
Macon founded Battle Ground out of a desire to keep his two daughters safe. Having recognized and researched the dangers of human trafficking, Macon is focused on using his 17 years of personal training experience to help others learn how to protect themselves.
“I started out training my daughters and training a couple of kids out of my garage, and it kind of went from a passion to something I can see myself doing as a living,” said Macon.
Battle Ground features classes for youth, women’s self-defense, strike classes for MMA boxers, and Sweat It Out Saturdays – a co-ed group of various ages geared toward participants attending with a friend or partner to gain accountability in their weight loss goals.
With countless self-defense and martial arts schools available to the public, Macon differentiates himself by being more hands-on than most.
All ages are welcome at Battle Ground martial arts school (Courtesy, Reggie Macon)
“It’s not just technique and that’s it,” said Macon. “I teach how to read body language, situational awareness, how to create separation to escape in certain instances, and how to build confidence in oneself to know that just because I know how to fight doesn’t mean I have to. I can walk away confidently enough to know I won’t have to cause any harm.”
During the course of the Pitch Black competition training, Macon feels the information contestants have received has been helpful in showing how and what they can apply to their businesses.
“It’s been great information throughout the competition.”
Macon hopes to purchase more safety equipment for the gym if he wins a cash prize, and also to increase marketing for Battle Ground.
“Hopefully Battle Ground will be a household name pretty soon,” Macon said.
Showcase and competition details you don’t want to miss
A business and resource showcase will be held before the competition (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)
Prior to the Pitch Black competition there will also be a business and resource showcase featuring all 20 contestants as well as selected organizations that support Black-owned businesses.
The competition and showcase will take place Thursday, Sept. 28 in Loosemore Auditorium at Grand Valley State University’s DeVos Center, 401 W. Fulton Street in Grand Rapids. The showcase opens at 5 p.m. and the competition begins at 6:30 p.m.
Three cash prizes will be presented by the Richard M. and Helen DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at GVSU. The Grand Prize is $5,000, with a 2nd place prize of $3,500, and a 3rd place prize of $1,500. The prize money can be used for any legitimate business purpose.
This event is free and open to the public, but registration is encouraged due to space limitations. All audience members are asked to dress in casual black attire.
Inspired by the ancient myth of Cupid and Psyche, choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager tells a female-driven, utterly compelling story of love, jealousy, and a case against the gods.
Rubio Slager’s choreography portrays the power of human connection and relationships (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)
The dancers embody the complexities of human existence, peeling away societal expectations to confront their true selves. Through Rubio Slager’s innovative choreography, the journey of self-discovery unfolds on stage, inviting audiences to reflect on their own identities and the masks they wear.
The power of human connection and relationships takes center stage in BareFace. Just as Cupid and Psyche longed for each other, the dancers’ movements intertwine and interact, portraying the intricacies of love, longing, and the universal desire for connection.
“With technical precision and graceful beauty,” writes Kathy D. Hey from Third Coast Review, “the talented artists of Ballet 5:8’s dance company convey a range of emotions, from moments of grief and longing to lighter moments of comedy.”
A captivating story that embraces the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity, BareFace challenges us to confront our own masks and delve into the rawness of our emotions. Set in the Grecian fairytale world of Glome, the production captivates with its cinematic storytelling, sweeping stage pictures, and gliding sets.
A lasting impact
BareFace showcases Rubio Slager’s choreography that, as described by D’onminique Boyd-Riley from See Chicago Dance, “Flows like chimes, leaving an enduring impact long after the wind has passed. The performance is nothing short of phenomenal.”
Dancers rehearse a previous Ballet 5:8 production. (Courtesy, Ballet 5:8)
The athletic prowess of Ballet 5:8’s dance artists, along with the work of costume designer Lorianne Robertson, scenic designers Sarah L. Freeman and Graham Louthan, and projections by Sarah L. Freeman and Julianna Rubio Slager, bring this full-length story ballet to life.
Artistic Director, Co-Founder and Chicano Resident Choreographer Julianna Rubio Slager co-founded Ballet 5:8 in 2012. She is known for engaging audiences in discussions of life and faith through exquisite choreography, and for empowering minority women to command space in the professional ballet scene.
Since its founding in 2012, Ballet 5:8 has presented more than 45 critically acclaimed ballets, engaging and captivating communities in Chicago, the Midwest and across the nation.
Tiered single tickets are available ranging from $15 to $45 based on seating and available online at: https://www.ballet58.org/calendar/bareface-gr. Specific children, student and senior ticket prices are available. For groups of 10 or more adults, patrons can use the code: B58GROUP to redeem $5 off each ticket.
