Volunteers of two local commissions will plant four redbud trees at the Wyoming Veteran’s Memorial Garden for WWII and Korean War veterans (Courtesy, The City of Wyoming Historical Commission)
Only one evergreen tree (not pictured) currently remains to the east of the monument. With funding from the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, The Tree Amigos and Historical Commission plan to spruce up the memorial originally erected in 1945 at the intersection of Lee Street and Porter Street. Plantings adjacent to the monument will be updated in the spring.
(Courtesy, The City of Wyoming Historical Commission)
“The Wyoming Historical Commission is grateful to The Tree Amigos for beautifying the Wyoming Honor Roll Memorial dedicated to our veterans from Wyoming who served during WWII and the Korean Wars,” says Vicki Briggs, board member of The Historical Commission.
“This memorial was dedicated on May 30, 1945. The original plantings had been removed due to their age and now will be renewed.”
Tree dedication ceremony
A brief ceremony dedicating the trees and remembering the veterans named on the monument will take place at 12 p.m. on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11.
Representatives from the City of Wyoming and the Historical Commission will say a few words, along with American Legion Post 154 Post Commander Keith Wakefield. The Tree Amigos will also make an announcement about future projects.
“That’s so exciting, and I appreciate what Tree Amigos is doing to beautify the neighborhood,” says Kalene McElveen, owner of Tasteful Vegan Ice Cream Shop, a business adjacent to the planting site.
Local history
Boyce Slootmaker lied about his age to join the Navy at age 16 (Courtesy, Slootmaker family)
Among those named on the memorial are family members of The Tree Amigos chairperson, Estelle Slootmaker: Boyce Slootmaker (WWII), Howard Joyce (Korean War), and Clayton Burkholder (WWII).
Lieutenant Commander Roger B. Chaffee was added to the memorial in 1967. Born and raised in Wyoming, Chaffee died on Jan. 27, 1967 in the Apollo spacecraft flash fire during a launch pad test at Kennedy Space Center, FL.
Grand Valley fans are encouraged to join Grand Valley Athletics and its partners, WLAV, SpartanNash and the American Red Cross, in relief efforts for hurricane victims across the southeastern United States.
Donation items
The American Red Cross is asking the public for donations of individually-wrapped snacks such as granola bars; fruit cups; bags of pretzels, chips, popcorn, or crackers; juice boxes or beef jerky.
Help hit GVSU’s goal of contributing 150,000 individually wrapped snacks. Something to eat can make a big difference for someone dealing with the aftermath of a disaster.
Even something as small as a snack can help those in need (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Where and when to drop off
Lakers fans can drop off these items prior to Grand Valley’s home game against Northern Michigan from 3-7 p.m. on Oct. 12 in Parking Lot B2 at WLAV’s location in Tailgate Town.
Three SpartanNash store locations are also accepting donations through Saturday: Family Fare, 6370 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale; D&W, 1116 Robbins Road, Grand Haven; and Forest Hills Foods, 4668 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids.
The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) has released its annual fall recycling guide, which shows residents how to properly dispose of common household items.
The fall recycling guide highlights items that are commonly used in the fall – like disposable coffee cups, soup cartons, jugs, foil and cans – that can be recycled, but are often thrown away and are placed in a landfill. It also shows items that are not recyclable but can still be disposed of in a way that avoids landfilling.
“Each year we are proud to help Kent County residents take steps to reduce their landfill waste with the Fall Recycling Guide,” said Dar Baas, director of the DPW. “We can all do our part to protect our land, air and water and have more sustainable fall season for the benefit of our whole community.”
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Online waste disposal resources
The DPW’s recycling guides are a helpful tool for Kent County residents to learn how to do their part to reduce landfill waste.
Beyond common fall items, the DPW has an online Recycling & Waste Directory that allows users to search virtually any item and find ways to dispose of it through donation, composting or the safe disposal of hazardous waste.
The Kent County DPW provides municipal solid waste disposal services to ensure the effective removal, storage and disposal of residential and commercial solid waste through various facilities and programs, including Waste-to-Energy, the Recycling and Education Center, North Kent Transfer Station and South Kent Landfill.
This exciting exhibit provides new insights into biology and technology with eight robotic animals of considerable size. Visitors will discover how chameleons change color, giant squids propel themselves, flies walk on the ceiling and more.
Over a dozen hands-on activities illustrate fascinating real-life animal characteristics. Cutaways expose the mechanical animals’ insides as a host of easily recognizable machine parts and gadgets that demonstrate what makes them work.
“By comparing the anatomy, environments, and size of the actual creatures to the mechanic counterparts, The Robot Zoo provides fantastic new insights into biology and engineering, and hands-on fun for all ages,” the website states. “This exhibit reveals the magic of nature as a master engineer.”
Plan a field trip!
Educators are invited to bring students to experience The Robot Zoo. GRPM’s Educator’s Guide can enhance your group’s visit with a fun collection of multidisciplinary activities.
Insect investigations, sensory experiences of the rhinoceros and additional crafts and experiments can be utilized before or after the exhibit experience.
Cutaways expose the mechanical animals’ insides as a host of easily recognizable machine parts and gadgets (Courtesy, GRPM)
Dive deeper with books!
The GRPM and Kent District Library have collaborated to expand learning opportunities about biology, robotics and biomechanics with a variety of English and Spanish book titles for all ages.
Explore the fascinating worlds of animals and machines with these books!
Volunteers of all ages and abilities are welcome to meet at Lemery Park in Wyoming at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 24 to help remove trash from Buck Creek during the Annual Buck Creek Clean Up event.
“This year’s clean up is expanding to new areas and is shaping up to be one of our best!” said Martha Stout Vermeulen, Founder and former President of Friends of Buck Creek-Michigan (FOBC).
A family-friendly, active event, volunteers will remove trash and debris from various sites in the Buck Creek Watershed. Now under the leadership of FOBC board members Grant Simons and Lizzy Rozeboom, the clean up is expanding to include the area south of M-6.
Trash pulled from previous Buck Creek Clean Up event (Courtesy, FOBC)
An environment in danger
Buck Creek is a tributary of the Grand River found in Kent and Allegan counties in the U.S. state of Michigan.
Stretching 20.3 miles long, Buck Creek consists of 37.5 acres in nature preserve and 32,392 acres in watershed. The creek is a source of abundant wildlife and a habitat for many aquatic and semi-aquatic species. It is also integral for clean water.
However, Buck Creek is a cold water resource that continues to be threatened because of its urban location.
“A clean and healthy environment is critical to the overall health of our waterways and communities,” the FOBC website states. Removing trash within the community ensures a swimmable, drinkable, and fishable future for local waters.
Volunteers at the 2021 Buck Creek Cleanup (Courtesy, FOBC)
Several tons of trash have been removed from the rare urban trout stream’s waters.
Tires, shopping carts, microwaves and 55 gallon drums are only a few items removed from the creek. The most frequent and toxic trash recovered is plastic and styrofoam.
“Getting citizens up close and personal with Buck Creek reveals problems that a disposable society creates, and increases awareness to reduce and reuse,” said Vermeulen at a previous Buck Creek Clean Up event.
Clean up event details
Coffee and doughnuts will be provided at 8:30 a.m. clean up check-in at Lemery Park, along with gloves and bags. Insect repellant and poison ivy wipes will also be available.
Comfortable shoes or boots (that can get wet/dirty) and layered clothing are recommended. A long shirt and pants can help protect from bug bites and poison ivy.
Volunteers should bring a reusable water bottle. Work gloves, waders and grabber sticks are welcomed and encouraged.
Following clean up, lunch at Wedgwood Park in Grandville will be provided to volunteers, compliments of Grandville Mayor Steve Maas (tax money is not used for this meal).
It is not uncommon to find discarded tires during the clean up (Courtesy, FOBC 2021)
Registration and sponsorship
Register to attend the clean up here. FOBC will email additional instructions before the event.
Sponsors of the annual clean up are welcomed and can email mibuckcreek@gmail.com for more information.
Event details and updates can also be found on the FOBC Facebook page.
Join the FOBC board!
The purpose of FOBC is to inspire, initiate, promote and engage in activities that improve the environmental quality and beauty of Buck Creek.
Volunteers are invited to take a more active role in “Friends of Buck Creek” by joining the board. Those interested can click here.
#WOODYWALKS in Murg, Switzerland (Courtesy, Ellis)
One man, 2 feet, 2+ years, 2,000+ miles – and a cause.
Woody Ellis begins his trek across the United States with the Mackinac Bridge Walk on Sept. 2 in an effort to combat stigma surrounding mental illness.
With a family history of dementia and schizophrenia, losing family and close friends to suicide and struggling against depression himself, Ellis often feels overwhelmed by the prevalence of mental illness.
“I’m seeing a lot of these types of things,” said Ellis. “The older you get, the more stuff you see, and more stuff happens to your loved ones. It’s starting to be a lot.”
And when Ellis feels overwhelmed, he travels.
“It takes my mind off things,” said Ellis. “I just need a reset.”
Though that “reset” is an act of mental self-preservation, Ellis battles guilt when he travels and leaves loved ones behind. That feeling of selfishness prompted Ellis to found #WOODYWALKS.
“How can I explore but also help some of the causes that are affecting so many people I know?” said Ellis. “I figured a way to do both things was to do something extreme that would draw attention and raise money for some really good organizations related to these causes.”
#WOODYWALKS was born.
Ellis is expecting the #WOODYWALKS journey to take anywhere from 2 to 3 years. Though he plans to hike an average of 10-15 miles per day, they may not be consecutive miles.
“A big part of it for me is enjoying the experiences I have along the way,” said Ellis. “So I’m going to be open to saying ‘yes’ to things along the way because part of it is interacting with strangers and spreading joy, smiles, laughter, hugs and all that kind of stuff.
“I also may stray away from the trail at times, and then pick back up where I leave off.”
#WOODYWALKS in Guatape, Columbia (Courtesy, Ellis)
Daring to be different
Forty-three-year-old Ellis has never been one to follow the beaten path.
“I’ve always been a unique individual. I really fly by the seat of my pants,” said Ellis, adding that he was not made for the 9 to 5 way of life.
“As soon as they started telling me that’s the only way to do it, I started exploring other ways. That was my initial inspiration to be different.”
In 2016, Ellis took a 60-hour train ride from Chicago to Vancouver, where he lived on a floating wharf on an uninhabited island. He has been solo traveling around the world ever since.
The upcoming #WOODYWALKS adventure will, in large part, also be traveled solo.
“It’s never been a problem to be by myself…that’s the type of person I am,” said Ellis.
#WOODYWALKS in Toubkal (Courtesy, Ellis)
Where’s Woody?
Ellis decided to begin his cross-country adventure with the annual Bridge Walk.
“I looked at the date and it fit my timing,” said Ellis. “Because I’ve lived in Michigan my whole life, I felt like that was a really good way to send me off.”
Ellis will then travel west through the Upper Peninsula and Wisconsin. From there, he will head south, then west again to take advantage of better weather.
#WOODYWALKS in Zambujeira, Portugal (Courtesy, Ellis)
Walking trailers and…a hammock?
“For the most part I’m going to be hammock camping and exchanging services, or cooking dinner, for strangers if they can provide a couple of trees for me to hang my hammock.”
Not only will Ellis be toting a hammock, he will also be hauling a variety of hiking supplies.
Those supplies include a sleeping bag, camping pillow, Jetboil cooking system, one pot, utensils, a headlamp, an extra blanket, clothes, a water filter, a water pouch, hiking boots and camera equipment.
Ellis realized carrying that much weight on his back would not allow him to travel far and began searching for solutions.
Specializing in walking trailers, HipStar designed a hands-free trailer with a belt that fastens around the traveler’s waist.
“It takes all the weight off your back and puts it on your lower half,” said Ellis. “This trailer is definitely a game changer.”
#WOODYWALKS in Hawaii (Courtesy, Ellis)
Smile for the camera!
Throughout his journey, Ellis plans to capture the experience with his iPhone camera and share pictures and short videos.
“I’ll be doing diary videos where I’m talking about my experiences,” said Ellis.
He plans to include footage of setting up camp, making dinner (“I always have to get creative with meals”), getting water from a river with a water filter, interactions with people, campfire interviews related to mental health…and, of course, walking.
“Pretty much a little bit of everything so people can vicariously come along,” said Ellis.
#WOODYWALKS footage will be posted to Ellis’ social media channels and in the #WOODYWALKS newsletter. Social media and newsletter links can be found on the #WOODYWALKS website home page.
#WOODYWALKS in Dubruvnik (Courtesy, Ellis)
Join Woody’s adventure!
#WOODYWALKS is a community endeavor, with several options for people to support mental health charities and interact with Ellis on his journey.
“There are multiple ways on my website to support,” said Ellis. “I have charities picked out and have pages for each charity. They can donate directly to the charity.”
There is also an option to donate directly to the #WOODYWALKS project to help alleviate trip expenses.
“I’m not going to be working any of my current jobs; this is going to be my full-time job. I’m going to be editing movies and content, which is work on its own.”
People can support the charity of their choice by signing up to walk with Ellis. “If people join me, whether it be for a week or a month at a time, I will focus entirely on the charity of their choice during the time they’re with me.”
#WOODYWALKS in the village of Mousehole in Cornwall, England (Courtesy, Ellis)
“If people are aware that I’m coming ahead of time, they can tell me where they are along my route and I can stop for a night or two,” said Ellis.
Brand sponsorships are available for businesses, and #WOODYWALKS t-shirts are available for purchase as well, with proceeds supporting the #WOODYWALKS mission.
Ellis will be wearing #WOODYWALKS t-shirts throughout the journey to ignite curiosity and interest.
“I want [people] to ask me what I’m doing and strike up conversations.”
Where will Woody walk next?
Though Ellis has no concrete plans after completing #WOODYWALKS, he will continue to travel – and give back.
“I would like to do other projects similar to this where it involves giving back, and also related to things that I’m passionate about,” said Ellis. “It’ll definitely involve traveling and doing something good for communities.”
World traveler Woody Ellis talks about his upcoming 2,000+ mile hike across the United States with WKTV Managing Editor Deborah Reed
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is proud to announce the groundbreaking exhibition David Smith: The Nature of Sculpture, showcasing the prolific and inventive work of David Smith (1906–1965). This landmark exhibition, the first to explore Smith’s deep engagement with nature, will open on Sept. 23, 2024, and will be on view through March 2, 2025.
The art of David Smith is profuse and inventive. Working in multiple media, formats, and scales, he blurred boundaries between painting and sculpture and between traditional genres such as landscape and figuration.
Smith’s bountiful oeuvre has secured him a firm place within art history, and his adventurous approach to three-dimensional form has permanently expanded the vocabulary and range of sculptural practice.
Forging new ground
Smith is widely hailed as the first American artist to make welded metal sculpture and to absorb industrial methods and materials into his creative repertoire. His inventiveness and contributions to sculptural practice extend far beyond machine vernacular and technique, however. Many have traced the origins of modern sculpture parks to Smith’s unprecedented outdoor installations on his Bolton Landing property in upstate New York.
David Smith’s Raven IV, 1957 (Courtesy, FMG)
For Smith, nature was not only a source of inspiration but also served as studio, accomplice and staging ground for his complex sculptural works.
“While David Smith is recognized as the most important sculptor of the 20th century, there is still much to be learned about his expansive art, especially as it relates to the natural world,” says Suzanne Ramljak, Vice President of Collections & Curatorial Affairs at Meijer Gardens.
“We are excited to reveal this crucial and lesser-known aspect of Smith’s career at Meijer Gardens, where sculpture and nature are so intimately bound.”
What to expect:
David Smith’s Cubi XII, 1963 (Courtesy, FMG)
David Smith: The Nature of Sculpture will feature a selection of some 40 sculptures, alongside related paintings, reliefs, and works on paper, providing an in-depth exploration of Smith’s sustaining connection with nature.
Uniting key loans from major lenders—including The Whitney Museum of American Art, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, and Storm King Art Center—the exhibition will be arranged in loose chronological order, beginning with Smith’s earliest sculptures from 1932 to the year before his accidental death in 1965.
Viewers will encounter nature-based work from every decade of Smith’s career, including:
1930s constructions with stones, shells, coral, and wood, along with biomorphic cast metal sculptures.
1940s and 1950s pictorial sculpture landscapes, a genre of Smith’s own invention, which he enlisted to address an array of themes—from autobiography, House in a Landscape and his epic Hudson River Landscape; to color theory, Helmholtzian Landscape; to social norms, Cloistral Landscape.
Mid-1950s bronze reliefs depicting botanic motifs such as Rose Garden, Wild Plums, and Skull and Tree.
Late 1950s and early 1960s avian sculptures, including a series focused on ravens.
A selection of outdoor works that find their completion in the company of sky, wind and earth, as Smith intended.
This exhibition will have a particularly strong resonance at Meijer Gardens, where Smith’s work will be in direct dialogue with the natural environment, including larger pieces situated out of doors. Witness David Smith’s thrilling sculptural translations of the natural world he knew and loved in this exclusive Grand Rapids exhibition.
David Smith: The Nature of Sculpture will be accompanied by an exhibition catalogue co-published by Meijer Gardens and Hirmer/University of Chicago Press.
The publication will feature contributions by the artist’s daughters, reflecting on Smith’s lived domestic experience of nature; an essay by curator Suzanne Ramljak, surveying Smith’s engagement with nature as material source, subject matter, and preferred site for his sculpture; appreciations by contemporary artists Beatriz Cortez and Mark di Suvero, addressing Smith’s contributions and connections to current art practice; and an illustrated artist’s chronology highlighting key nature-based events in David Smith’s life and art.
David Smith’s Steel Drawing, 1945 (Courtesy, FMG)
Exhibition Programming:
Unless otherwise noted, programs are included in the cost of admission and registration is not required.
Moving Out: David Smith & Outdoor Sculpture
Join Suzanne Ramljak, exhibition curator and Vice President of Collections & Curatorial Affairs, and Amber Oudsema, Curator of Arts Education, on a walk to explore David Smith’s lasting legacy. Discover his influence on sculpture parks as we know them and the many successful artists who followed in Smith’s creative footsteps.
This event will take place Wednesday, Oct. 9 from 2-3 p.m.
A full list of exhibition-related activities can be found here.
Extending gratitude
David Smith: The Nature of Sculpture is made possible by the Louis and Helen Padnos Foundation, Meijer Foundation, Bill Padnos and Margy Kaye, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation and Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
Meijer BeBop and Pixie Drone (Courtesy, GVSU/Meijer)
By Brian Vernellis
GVSU Communications
Grand Valley State University’s Annis Water Resources Institute (AWRI) will showcase an innovative, remote-controlled beach-cleaning device designed and deployed to collect refuse and plastic litter from Michigan beaches along the Great Lakes shorelines.
A Few Friends for the Environment of the World (AFFEW), a Ludington-based environmental nonprofit group, has invited the AWRI to publicly demonstrate the litter capture and cleanup device, called the BeBot, for an upcoming beach cleanup scheduled for July 17, from 7-8:30 p.m., at Ludington’s Stearns Park.
Models estimate as much as 22 million pounds of plastic every year could be entering the Great Lakes, the source of drinking water for 40 million Americans and Canadians. Plastic in the lakes and surrounding watersheds will cost hundreds of millions of U.S. dollars annually to combat.
Cleanup technology
Since 2022, Meijer has donated close to $2 million to the Council of the Great Lakes Region Foundation to expand the deployment of two plastic litter cleanup technologies, the BeBot and Pixie Drone. This is part of the Great Lakes Plastic Cleanup Program, a joint initiative of the Council of the Great Lakes Region and Pollution Probe in Canada.
Jamie Cross, outreach and science education instructor at AWRI, will be at Stearns Park to talk about BeBot and AWRI’s participation in the project.
The public is invited
AFFEW invites the public to watch BeBot in action as well as volunteer in the cleaning of Stearns Park’s beach.
Participants should meet at the south concession stand in Stearns Park. Bags and gloves will be provided.
For more information about this event or AFFEW, visit affew.org.
A severe storm with damaging winds hit West Michigan earlier this week. Several homes and businesses were left without power and/or structural damage. First responders were hindered by road obstructions as they attempted to help those in need.
The storm’s aftermath has left several people wondering how they can be better prepared to safely weather future storms.
Keep power outdoor equipment on hand
Summer storm season is here, and having the right outdoor power equipment on hand year-round is important, says the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). OPEI advises home and business owners to think ahead before foul weather or a power outage disrupts life.
Be prepared – any season can be storm season (Courtesy photo)
“It’s important to be prepared year-round given any season can be storm season,” says Kris Kiser, President & CEO of OPEI. “We see more people investing in portable and whole house generators and having other outdoor power equipment on hand such as chainsaws and water pumps to mitigate any damage from felled trees and water damage and floods.”
Kiser adds that outdoor power equipment is becoming faster, lighter, more efficient, and more technologically-advanced.
“There’s a power source for every need including battery/electric, propane, solar and gasoline,” Kiser says, noting each has different maintenance and care requirements. “Always read and follow the manufacturer’s manual.”
Identify which equipment is needed
To get ready for inclement weather, homeowners should identify which equipment is needed.
Having the proper equipment on hand can help mitigate damage from storms (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Chainsaws or pole saws can trim limbs and shrubs ahead of a storm and handle clearing. String trimmers, pruners and chainsaws can also remove combustible material from around your home, making it less vulnerable to wildfires.
A portable generator will power key appliances and charge cell phones when utilities go down. Before an outage, plan where the generator will be set up. Never put a generator in a home or garage, and always away from your home and any air intake.
Before an outage, plan where the generator will be set up (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Determine how to secure it if needed. Buy and install a carbon monoxide detector. Get outdoor-rated extension cords for portable generators and consider adding an approved cover to your generator for rainy weather. A whole house generator can keep the lights and appliances on and running.
Water pumps can help get water and muck out of basements and homes. Be sure you know how to operate the pump. Never pump substances that your equipment is not designed to cope with. Pay attention to avoid overheating and follow all safety precautions.
A utility type vehicle can transport people and supplies quickly in an emergency. Keep the vehicle stable and drive slowly. Do not turn mid-slope or while on a hill. Consider taking a safety course.
Store equipment operating supplies
Always read the directions provided by outdoor power equipment manufacturers. Be sure to follow all manufacturer’s safety and usage recommendations before you need it—not waiting until an emergency. Practice how to operate equipment. Save a digital copy of the owner’s manual on your computer for easy future consultation.
Make sure to have the right fuel on hand and charge batteries ahead of an outage. Gasoline-powered equipment uses E10 or less fuel and most manufacturers recommend adding a fuel stabilizer. Fuel more than 30 days old may phase separate and cause running problems, so it is important to purchase fuel just ahead of a storm. Store fuel safely, and only use an approved fuel container.
Make sure you have the correct batteries needed, and that they are charged before a storm (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
For battery-powered equipment, recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may not be compatible with another battery pack.
Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or equipment outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery.
Pay attention to your health
One of the most important things operators can do for safety is to pay attention to energy levels and health.
Preparation for bad weather, a power outage and storm cleanup can be taxing on the body and the spirit. Do not operate power equipment when tired or overly fatigued. Drink plenty of water and take regular breaks. Always use safety equipment like chaps, gloves, eye protection or hearing protection.
An Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly and a bumblebee were found sharing space on a milkweed plant at Van Buren State Park over the weekend.
Both pollinators, butterflies and bees are often drawn to brightly colored flowers, as well as open or flat tubular blooms with an abundance of pollen or nectar.
Butterflies
(Courtesy, Cris Greer WKTV)
Butterflies typically probe for nectar, which is their flight fuel. Clusters of flowers that provide a stable landing platform and nectar deeply hidden inside the blooms are most popular.
Flowers containing nectar guides that help the bees find the flower’s center quickly are also a favorite – and facilitate rapid nectar collection and flower pollination.
Though an adequate pollinator, butterflies are not quite as efficient as its bumblebee partner due to their long, thin legs creating a higher perch on the flower. The thin legs and higher perch prevent as much pollen from sticking to the body of the butterfly versus that of the bumblebee.
Bumblebees
(Courtesy, Cris Greer WKTV)
Fat and furry, bumblebees are slightly smaller than similar-looking carpenter bees. The hairs on their legs and body, called setae, help the bumblebee collect pollen and nectar.
Bumblebees are drawn to flowers in the ultraviolet color range, though they cannot see red like butterflies can. Fragrant flowers are particularly appealing to bees.
Like butterflies, bees are also attracted to clusters of flat or tubular flowers that provide a landing pad and a wealth of pollen and nectar.
Lovingly named The Beast by the GVSU biology department staff, peak bloom is expected between June 14 and 16, 2024 inside the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse at FMG. The Beast is on loan from GVSU and is a part of their permanent collection.
Unpredictable, large in size…and pungent!
The corpse flower (Amorphophallus titanum) – also called titan arum – is one of the largest and rarest flowering plants in the world. The unpredictable blooming cycle makes each event a notable occurrence. It can take up to a decade to produce a flowering structure, and blooms for only 24 to 36 hours.
“The Beast” at Frederik Meijer Gardens June 2024 (Courtesy, FMG)
The bloom emits a strong odor resembling that of rotting flesh or a decaying animal, which is how it got the name “corpse flower.” Its distinctive odor attracts pollinators, including carrion beetles and flesh flies, that feed on dead animals and is at its most pungent during peak bloom.
The corpse flower can grow up to 10 feet tall and 4 feet wide. Its leaf structure can reach up to 20 feet in height and 16 feet across. Although the enormous plant in bloom resembles one giant flower, it actually comprises a fleshy central spike called a spadix that holds two rings of male and female flowers, wrapped by the frilly spathe, a modified leaf that resembles a petal.
While the corpse flower’s bloom is short-lived, the plant itself can live for 40 years or more. It spends much of its life cycle as a dormant underground tuber. The corpse flower is native to the rainforests of Sumatra, Indonesia and was first reported in 1878.
A unique experience
U.S. Botanic Garden Corpse Flower Lifecycle (Courtesy, FMG)
“This is an incredibly exciting and unique thing to experience,” said Steve LaWarre, Senior Vice President of Horticulture at FMG. “Many people go through their entire careers never seeing an example like this in person.
“We are thrilled that in addition to our own Putricia, which bloomed in 2018, we are able to display another Amorphophallus titanum thanks to our colleagues at Grand Valley State University, and that the public is showing such great interest. We are especially excited to work with the biology department at GVSU and are thankful for the collaboration between our organizations.”
GVSU’s plant, which was donated in 2015 by Tim Strickler, professor emeritus of biomedical sciences, bloomed for the first time just two years ago.
“Barbara Kindschi Greenhouse staff members at Grand Valley were definitely surprised to see our Amorphaphallus tintanum starting to bloom again so soon after the last bloom in the spring of 2022,” said Christina Hipshier, greenhouse supervisor. “We are grateful for the help from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in displaying The Beast.
“Considering that this bloom is happening during a time when most students are not on campus, we are excited for the visibility that this collaboration will bring.”
How to see the corpse flower
Guests can experience the unique smells and sights of this rare event during Meijer Gardens’ normal hours of operation.
This event is free, but RSVPs are appreciated and can be completed here.
Helpful event details
Volunteers are asked to wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing and bring a shovel, hard rake, and work gloves if they have them.
The group will meet at Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center at 8:45 a.m. to sign in, enjoy refreshments, and watch a planting demonstration with ReLeaf Michigan’s tree experts.
Families are welcome! The event occurs rain or shine. No planting experience is necessary.
One morning of tree planting will leave an environmental legacy that will add beauty to the community for generations (Courtesy, Wyoming Tree Commission)
An environmental legacy
Trees provide incredible benefits to the communities in which they are planted. Trees improve air and water quality, reduce stormwater runoff, improve mental wellness, reduce childhood asthma rates, cool our neighborhoods, and enhance commercial and economic vitality.
Join us for the morning and leave an environmental legacy that will add to the beauty of your community for generations!
Funding for this project has been provided by the USDA Forest Service and MDNR Urban and Community Forestry Programs through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
West Michigan resident, Matthew Reed, was able to view the Aurora and capture stunning images of the lights from his own home in Rockford, MI (Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
Residents from all over West Michigan were treated to the bright lights and colors of the Aurora Borealis, also called the Northern Lights, over the weekend.
The Aurora showcased her beauty on the evenings of Friday, May 10 and Saturday, May 11. Reports of sightings began around 10 p.m. on Friday. According to the NOAA, the Aurora is usually best viewed between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
What is the Aurora Borealis?
The Aurora occurs when there are collisions between electrically charged particles (electrons) from the sun as they enter earth’s atmosphere.
The electrons transfer their energy to the atmosphere, stimulating the atoms and molecules to higher energy states. When decreasing back to lower energy states, the electrons release energy in the form of light.
WKTV Managing Editor Cris Greer viewed the Aurora phenomenon at South Haven the evening of May 10 (Courtesy, Cris Greer)
What to expect when viewing the phenomena
While pale green and pink are the most common colors in auroral displays, blue, violet, green, yellow and red were also reported. The Aurora may also appear in various forms, from patches of light to arcs, rippling curtains or shooting rays.
(Courtesy, Matthew Reed)
The best way to view the Aurora
To view the Aurora, minimal light pollution is best. The lights will be visible on the northern horizon, or will appear higher in the sky if you are further north.
When taking pictures of the Aurora, longer exposure times will more clearly reveal the phenomenon’s colors that may only appear in faint hues to the naked eye.
Wyoming parks have shown signs of new growth for several weeks. As the first week of May comes to an end, trees and bushes move from sporting buds to leafing out.
Spring officially began on March 19, 2024, but many tree branches and plant stalks remained bare until recent days.
Trees typically leaf out when days lengthen and nights shorten. This triggers new growth and development. However, there’s no set date for when trees and plants will leaf out and bloom. In the Midwest, it is common for trees to hold off sprouting new leaves until mid-April due to the chance of frost.
Palmer Park was a natural haven of blue sky, sunshine and new green growth as the second week of May began. Several local residents are taking advantage of the park’s walking trails, enjoying the fresh air and warmer temperatures.
The City of Wyoming has several parks for residents to enjoy. A full list can be found here.
The City of Kentwood will offer its annual Community Cleanup Day on Saturday, May 4 to help residents “spring clean” their homes and yards.
Residents can drop off household trash, general debris and yard waste for disposal and electronics for recycling from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.
Public Works staff will be on-site during the Community Cleanup Day to accept trash and general debris, including mattresses, for disposal. Tires cannot be accepted. Yard waste such as brush, sticks, tree limbs and logs as well as leaves and grass clippings will be accepted. Leaves should be loose when dropped off – not left in bags.
Electronics will be accepted for recycling: cellphones, computers, fax machines and more.
Items that will not be accepted are: Hazardous material of any kind, batteries not integral to computer systems, smoke detectors and refrigerant/Freon.
“The City of Kentwood’s Community Cleanup Day offers residents a convenient location to drop off household items they no longer want,” said Chad Griffin, Department of Public Works director. “We encourage residents who are spring cleaning their homes to participate in this program, which we are pleased to provide at no additional cost to them.”
The Community Cleanup Day and brush and leaf drop-off service are available to Kentwood residents only. Anyone wishing to participate is asked to enter the drive off Breton Avenue, where staff will check ID for residency and direct traffic flow. The City has contracted with GFL environmental, Valley City Electronic Recycling and Mattress Shredderz to help recycle and dispose of the items received.
Items for donation and household hazardous materials will not be accepted during this year’s cleanup event. Residents looking to safely dispose of household hazardous materials may utilize the Kent County Department of Public Works’ SafeChem program, which remains available to residents at the Kentwood Public Works facility from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays.
After the cleanup event, the City’s brush and leaf drop-off site, also located at the Public Works facility, will remain open through Saturday, May 24. Hours of operation for the drop-off site are noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
The City of Kentwood will once again honor Arbor Day with a tree planting and celebration, which will include a free tree seedling giveaway.
Residents of all ages are invited to join Kentwood’s Arbor Day Celebration on Friday, April 26 at Pinewood Park, 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE. The event begins at noon with an Arbor Day proclamation, followed by a tree planting and a guided tree identification walk in the park. Complimentary refreshments also will be provided.
Arbor Day is an annual observance held each spring to recognize the impact of trees in the community and encourage tree planting.
“Our trees, of different species and sizes, offer more than just visual charm,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “They serve as vital contributors to a cleaner and healthier environment. Our Arbor Day Celebration is an opportunity to collaborate and encourage one another by not only planting new trees, but also protecting our existing tree canopy from invasive species for the preservation and enjoyment of today and future generations.”
Pick up your free seedlings April 23-26
Residents can pick up free tree seedlings at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, or at Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton SE, ahead of the celebration. The seedlings will be available during business hours Tuesday, April 23 through Friday, April 26 while supplies last.
Community members can check on tree seedling availability by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at 616-656-5270. The Kentwood Activities Center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. Residents are invited to share a photo of their planted seedling on social media using the hashtag #GreeningKentwood.
The Arbor Day Celebration is sponsored by Railtown Brewing Company and Metronet. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The Arbor Day Celebration is sponsored by Railtown Brewing Company and Metronet. Railtown Brewing Company also held a fundraiser through March where a portion of the proceeds from every Bike Ride Blonde ale purchased went towards supporting the planting of trees in Kentwood for Arbor Day.
More information about Kentwood’s Arbor Day Celebration can be found at kentwood.us/ArborDay.
Community members who are looking for more ways to get involved beyond Arbor Day are invited to join the Kentwood Park Stewards, an environmentally focused program that helps preserve and maintain neighborhood parks, trails and public spaces. More information about the program is available at kentwood.us/ParkStewards.
West Michigan resident and astronomy enthusiast Matthew Palmieri traveled to Lebanon, IN with his wife and two daughters over the weekend to view the 2024 solar eclipse.
Palmieri used his personal 6″ Newtonian telescope, reflected with a solar filter to make viewing safe, to capture stunning images of the eclipse.
(Courtesy, Matthew Palmieri)
The band director for Southwest Middle High School in Grand Rapids, Palmieri is as passionate about the cosmos as he is about music.
“Seeing the eclipse lets you see the solar system as a three dimensional place, and it gives you a glimpse of our place in the universe,” Palmieri told WKTV Journal. “The closest experience I’ve had to seeing the eclipse was seeing the Grand Canyon.”
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.
The Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW) has released its annual Spring Recycling Guide. The Guide informs residents on what they can dispose of and recycle as they begin spring cleaning.
(Courtesy, Kent County DPW)
The Spring Recycling Guide shares valuable tips on recycling and properly disposing of waste, including everything from cartons and cans to bulky plastic containers to chemicals and cleaners and propane tanks. Properly disposing of these household items can help Kent County reach its goal to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Multiple options are available for disposal
“So many items that get placed in residents’ trash bins can be disposed of in a better way, and the DPW’s Spring Recycling Guide offers helpful information to help protect our environment,” said Katelyn Kikstra, Waste Reduction Educator at the DPW.
“We encourage residents to use the guide and our online Recycling & Waste directory to help reduce landfill waste.”
(Courtesy, Kent County DPW)
The guide details what can be recycled in Kent County including paper folders and shredded documents, corrugated plastic yard signs, aluminum trays and foil.
If items cannot go in residents’ recycling bins, there are additional options that help avoid items being sent to a landfill. Many household items may not be recyclable but can still be safely disposed of including paints and stains, garden hoses and electronics.
Resources
The DPW also offers a newly updated and user-friendly online directory in which residents can search virtually any item and find out how to dispose of or recycle it.
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.
Spring officially begins Tuesday, March 19, but signs of new life are already showing at Buck Creek Nature Preserve in Wyoming.
This reporter spent her lunch break wandering the Buck Creek trail and basking in the sun streaming through leafless trees. The air – unseasonably warm for a Michigan March afternoon – stirred bare branches and fallen leaves.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Trilling birds and a bubbling creek lent a peaceful ambiance to the preserve. Flowers stretched their stalks and unfurled their petals while bushes flaunted brightly colored buds.
Wyoming residents can enjoy Buck Creek Nature Preserve, as well the other 20+ parks scattered throughout the city, as Michigan begins to bloom!
Rockford teen Emma Reed was on the way home from self-defense class Monday evening, March 4, when a lightning storm lit up the sky out the car window.
(Courtesy, Emma Reed)
Grabbing a phone, Reed proceeded to take video and pictures of the storm as her mother sought routes that would give her a clear shot of the lightning.
“It was so cool,” Reed told WKTV. “You could see the actual bolts of lightning.”
An electric phenomena
Considered dry lightning (lightning that occurs without rain nearby), the electric display was a prelude to rain that would make an appearance during the Monday night and Tuesday morning hours.
(Courtesy, Emma Reed)
Lightning is defined as an electrical discharge caused by imbalances within clouds, or between storm clouds and the ground. It is considered one of the oldest observed natural phenomena on earth.
In addition to being visible during thunderstorms, it can also be seen in volcanic eruptions, extremely intense forest fires, surface nuclear detonations, heavy snowstorms and large hurricanes.
(Courtesy, Emma Reed)
Learn more about lightning
Learn more about the phenomena of lightning on the NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory website.
Enjoy an up-close encounter with thousands of unique tropical butterflies as they fly freely throughout the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory!
A global journey
Tailed Jay (Courtesy, FMG)
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park announces the return of the much-loved Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition, now in its 29th year.
The largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the United States, this event showcases the stunning diversity and intricate beauty of butterflies and moths.
Butterflies Are Blooming opens March 1 and runs through April 30. Visitors are invited to celebrate the unique spectacle of lepidopteran flight and the exquisite patterns of their wings in the lush environment of the Conservatory.
This year’s exhibition is a true global journey. More than 60 species from Africa, Asia, and Central and South America will be featured.
The five-story, 15,000-square-foot glass house provides the ideal tropical setting for these vibrant world travelers. Featured species include dazzling blue morphos, stealthy clearwings, majestic Atlas moths and elegant tree nymphs. Each species adds its own unique brushstroke to this living canvas of color and motion.
The science behind butterflies
Butterflies are cold-blooded insects requiring a body temperature of 85–105 degrees Fahrenheit to take flight. The black markings on northern species are not just for show, they are nature’s solar panels, absorbing sunlight to warm these delicate creatures.
Red Lacewing (Courtesy, FMG)
The dual-wing design of butterflies is a marvel of nature’s engineering, providing lift and precise steering. Witness the distinct flight patterns of each species, from the powerful and swift swallowtails to the playful, zigzagging flight of the large-winged morphos.
Up-close experiences
Chrysalides and cocoons can be seen at the Observation Station (Courtesy, FMG)
In addition to the butterflies’ aerial ballet, the exhibition offers guests unique up-close experiences at feeding stations brimming with nectar plants. At the Observation Station, thousands of chrysalides and cocoons emerge and reveal the magic of metamorphosis.
Approximately 1,000 chrysalides are delivered to Meijer Gardens each week of the exhibition. This year, grapevine spheres adorned with flowering vines and other tropical plants were introduced, creating enchanting landing spots for the winged guests.
“As we eagerly welcome the return of the Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibitionfor its 29th year, we invite guests to immerse themselves in the spectacular world of butterflies and moths here at Meijer Gardens,” said Steve LaWarre, Vice President of Horticulture. “This year’s exhibition is more than just a display; it’s a celebration of the breathtaking beauty of flight.
“Each visit is a unique journey through the vibrant patterns and unique flight dynamics of these enchanting creatures. We’re also thrilled to enhance this experience with special events, educational programs and exclusive member activities.”
FMG invites guests from near and far to join us in celebrating the wonder of these magnificent creatures. The Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition is a vivid reminder of nature’s incredible artistry, the beauty of flight, and the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
(Courtesy, FMG)
Exhibition rules:
Please do not touch the butterflies.
During the butterfly exhibition, tripods are not allowed in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. While monopods may be used, please be courteous to other guests.
Per USDA regulations, no butterfly or plant materials may leave the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory.
Extended Hours & Exhibition Activities
Extended Spring Break Hours: Open until 9 pm March 29 and April 1–5.
Exclusive Member Early Hours: Members enjoy exclusive early open hours every Sunday morning in March and April, from 9–11 a.m.
Michigan residents in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties with property damage from the Aug. 24-26, 2023 tornadoes, severe storms and flooding may now call or go online to apply for disaster assistance from FEMA.
To start the application process, contact FEMA by going online to disasterassistance.gov, downloading the FEMA app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. When calling the FEMA Helpline, multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
Federal assistance may include temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses.
Have the following information ready when you apply with FEMA:
A current phone number where you can be contacted.
Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
Your social security number (or the social security number of a minor child in your household, if you’re applying on their behalf).
A general list of damage and losses.
Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
Those who already made repairs or started their recovery should still apply.
FEMA inspectors are trained to recognize damage caused by a disaster even after recovery has started, and they will discuss that damage with you when they come to your home. Be prepared to show repair receipts, photos and any other disaster-related documentation as well.
FEMA offers tips on how to be prepared for the assistance process (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Important reminders after applying:
Keep important steps in mind when navigating your FEMA assistance process after the August severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.
Next, comes a call. Typically, after you apply, you will be contacted by a FEMA inspector to schedule an appointment. Be sure to answer the phone. The inspector’s phone number may be from out of state or show up on caller ID as “unavailable.”
Then, inspection day. The inspection includes looking at disaster-damaged areas of your home and reviewing your records. FEMA inspectors will carry an official photo ID and will never ask for bank information. They will also never ask for money and never require payment in any form.
The inspector will ask to verify the applicant’s name, address, contact information, occupancy, ownership status, household occupants and insurance coverage. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and ASL interpreters, are available to ensure effective communication with survivors.
Don’t forget to fill out and submit your U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan application. After applying for disaster assistance, applicants may be referred to the SBA. There’s no obligation to accept a loan, but you may miss out on the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds if you don’t apply. If you don’t qualify for an SBA disaster loan, you may be referred back to FEMA for other types of grant assistance.
Finally, a decision will be sent to you. You will receive a letter explaining FEMA’s eligibility decision within 10 days after the inspector’s visit. Be sure to read it closely; it may explain additional steps needed to continue with the process. If you are eligible for assistance, you may receive a U.S. Treasury check or direct deposit based on what you selected during your application.
Getting help to those who need it most is FEMA’s priority. Recovery teams will be out soon in the neighborhoods affected by the disaster to provide one-on-one support to individuals. Recovery centers will also be opening for individuals to get additional in-person help.
For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.
Paris Grange fire on Jan. 7, 1938 (Courtesy, Kentwood Historic Preservation Committee)
By Kentwood Historic Preservation Committee
The Paris Grange No. 19 is the nation’s oldest national agricultural organization. Formed in 1873, the Grange members sought to improve the economic and social position of the nation’s farm population.
The historic beginning
The original Paris Grange No. 19 was organized April 10, 1873, with 26 charter members. During that same year, two other granges organized in the area—the Floral and Burton Granges. During the winter of 1877-1878, the Floral and Paris Granges united under the Paris name. In the 1880s the Burton Grange joined as well.
The Paris Grange Hall was constructed in 1879 at the southwest corner of Breton and 28th Street, which was known as Laraway Road at the time. The building was a two-story white clapboard establishment with a curved entryway and dark shutters.
A tragic fire rallies the residents
New Paris Grange Hall dedicated on Sept. 2, 1938 (Courtesy, Kentwood Historic Preservation Committee)
On Jan. 7, 1938, a fire broke out in the roof area of the Grange Hall. Although volunteer firemen from several local communities rushed to the scene, they were not able to save the structure and it burned to the ground.
The residents of Paris Township rallied to rebuild the Grange, despite the unfavorable economic conditions. Less than a year later on Sept. 2, 1938, the new Paris Grange Hall was dedicated.
One of the most important accomplishments of the Grange nationwide in the period between 1880 and 1890 was the promotion of the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887. This Act contained two clauses of importance to farm families: ensuring that railroads would not charge farmers unreasonable rates and that no farmer could be charged higher rates than another.
In 1970, the Paris 19 Grange was turned into a real estate office. Grange members still met in private homes throughout the 1970s.
Thousands of Michigan children are at risk of lead poisoning (Courtesy, Midstory)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Thousands of Michigan children are at risk of lead poisoning, but will soon be protected at schools and childcare centers.
On Oct. 19, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed into law “Filter First” legislation. This legislation consists of three bills that require the installation of lead water filters in all schools and childcare centers. Costs will be offset by $50 million dollars currently set aside in the state budget.
“Michigan lawmakers have just enacted the nation’s strongest measures protecting kids from lead in school and childcare centers,” said Cyndi Roper, Michigan senior policy advocate for NRDC. “These bills implement a solution that actually gets lead out of drinking water while also realizing dramatic cost savings over other approaches.”
“F” ranking prompts immediate action
The legislation’s passage comes after a nationwide Environment America report gave Michigan an F grade for its efforts to remove lead from school drinking water. With “Filter First” legislation becoming law, the ranking would be boosted to an A.
Lead levels are harmful in many locations (Courtesy, Midstory)
Research by Elin Betanzo, president and founder of Safe Water Engineering LLC, revealed that 89% of the 114 schools and childcare facilities that voluntarily submitted water samples to the state had dangerous amounts of lead in them.
Lead stunts mental, physical and social development. Young children, whose minds and bodies are growing most, are especially at risk. No amount of lead is safe.
“There has not been a bigger moment in the lead poisoning fight since lead paint was banned 45 years ago,” said Charlotte Jameson, chief policy officer for the Michigan Environmental Council. “Momentum is on our side. We can make lead poisoning history, not current reality.”
The filters schools and childcare centers will install prevent lead found in fountains and taps from leaching into the water children and staff drink. Lead leaching is possible in water fixtures new and old, and is especially prevalent in those left unused for long periods of time. That makes schools and childcare centers, with their many breaks and weekend closures, especially prone to lead contamination.
More about the “Filter First” method
The policy within the legislation, dubbed “Filter First,” is more effective than replacing water infrastructure outright because even new plumbing contains lead. It is also hundreds of millions of dollars cheaper and much faster to implement, according to an analysis prepared by NRDC for the Filter First Coalition.
“Michigan school water data shows that 89% of sampled buildings found detectable lead in their water,” said Betanzo of Safe Water Engineering. “Since Birmingham Public Schools switched its drinking water to all filter stations, there hasn’t been any lead in any of their filtered water samples.
“The Filter First law ensures that all drinking water in Michigan schools and childcare centers will be filtered, improving water quality at more than 3,000 schools statewide and achieving results just like Birmingham.”
The City of Kentwood will once again provide a free leaf and brush drop-off service to residents this fall.
Beginning Saturday, Oct. 14, residents may drop off loose leaves, brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs and grass clippings free of charge at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE. If brought to the site in bags, leaves must be dumped out and bags disposed of in the trash. Bags cannot be left in the leaf pile.
This service is available for Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required. Residents can drop off items noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday through Dec. 2. The site will be closed Friday, Nov. 10 in observance of Veterans Day and Nov. 23-24 for Thanksgiving.
The following materials won’t be accepted
trash
paper and plastic bags
dirt
concrete
asphalt
tires
rocks
stones
construction materials
glass
metal
The burning of leaves and brush as well as the accumulation of debris and leaves on a property or in the right-of-way are prohibited in the city of Kentwood. The drop-off service provides residents with a convenient way to keep their yards clear of leaves and debris during the fall.
“Autumn is busy this time of year, especially with additional yard cleanup created by falling leaves,” said Chad Griffin, Department of Public Works director. “We’re proud to provide our community with this valuable service, which helps residents keep their yards clean and helps us keep roadways and storm drains clear to ensure our infrastructure runs efficiently.”
The drop-off site will reopen in the spring after closing for winter in December.
More information about the City of Kentwood’s leaf and brush drop-off service is available at kentwood.us/BrushLeafDropOff.
Native plants flourish in Andrea Belden’s urban garden (Courtesy, Andrea Belden)
By Deborah Reed
deborah@wktv.org
Native plants not only beautify yards and natural habitats, they increase safe havens for pollinators and decrease effects of climate change.
A trillium flower flourishes in its natural habitat (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com, Nicholas A. Tonelli)
Friends of Buck Creek and Alysia Babcock, “The Garden Guru,” are hosting a free public event to teach the “hows” and “whys” of inhabiting land without damaging it.
“Gardens with native plants provide habitat for many organisms such as pollinators, birds, and small animals,” states Babcock on The Garden Guru Kzoo website. “These pocket gardens are safe havens that help reverse the effects of climate change. We need pollinators for our food crops, birds to distribute seeds, and small animals to keep garden pests at bay resulting in healthy viable plants.”
At 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 16, Babcock will give an hour-long presentation titled “Cleaning Our Watershed and Beautifying Your Property with Native Plants” at Grandville Kent District Library. This presentation will teach how to beautify personal properties while cleaning stormwater and providing food and shelter for pollinators.
“I have always been an advocate for nature and find nature’s beauty everyday,” said Babcock on her website.
Native plants and flowers provide a natural habitat for many organisms (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)
An Advanced Master Gardener, Conservation Steward and Master Naturalist, Babcock also has a Master’s Degree in Education, and is part of a newly formed Strike Team with the Rockford Sustainability Committee. Babcock is also the owner of The Garden Guru Kzoo LLC, a company dedicated to designing and implementing garden makeovers that specialize in native plants.
“I’d say [that] using native perennials in a landscape is a win-win-win-win,” said Martha Stout Vermeulen, founder and former President of Friends of Buck Creek-Michigan (FOBC). “Less money, less work, more beauty, healthier habitat.”
Vermeulen went on to explain that in the first year, native plants “sleep,” growing deep, water-cleansing roots. The second year they “creep,” beginning to beautify, and the third year they “leap” to their full glory.
Daisies come in several shapes, sizes, and colors (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)
“Since caterpillars are a primary food source for our dwindling bird population, nibbled leaves mean the garden is doing its job,” said Vermeulen.
Native plants will be available for purchase after Babcock’s presentation.
Parking is available on the south side of the KDL Grandville Branch. The building is wheelchair accessible.
For more information or questions, contact Martha Stout Vermeulen at seasister8@gmail.com.
Monarch butterflies play an important role in supporting our natural environment (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)
By John Ball Zoo
deborah@wktv.org
Monarch butterflies will be released into the wild at John Ball Zoo on Saturday, Sept. 9 as part of a wildlife conservation celebration.
During Monarch Day at the Zoo, butterflies will be released at one hour intervals amid family-friendly events designed to teach participants why the butterflies are so important. Butterfly releases will take place at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Monarch Day at the Zoo will feature several family-friendly activities and opportunities to learn about the butterflies (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)
“We are so excited to welcome guests to experience the wonder of releasing monarch butterflies into the wild so their population can improve, and they can migrate to wintering grounds in Mexico,” said Dan Hemmann, area curator at John Ball Zoo. “People of all ages can enjoy the events of Monarch Day while learning about why this species is so important.”
From 9 a.m.-6 p.m., John Ball Zoo is offering fun, family-friendly activities and opportunities to learn about monarch butterflies and how pollinators help support our natural environment. Characters including Mirabelle, Rapunzel, Tinkerbell and Fawn will be present throughout the day to help spread the message on conservation efforts everyone can take to contribute to a healthy environment for pollinators.
Events also include story time with Circle Theatre at 11 a.m., as well as an aerial performance provided by Gemini Circus from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Monarch Day will also feature live music by Kohns from 4-6 p.m., face painting, and animal activities throughout the day.
The massasauga rattlesnake is the only venomous snake in Michigan (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)
By Deborah Reed
deborah@wktv.org
The eastern massasauga rattlesnake is venomous, slithery, and not at all cuddly, but the conservation department at John Ball Zoo (JBZ) is working hard to preserve the endangered species.
The only venomous snake out of 18 snake species found in Michigan, the massasauga is an extremely valuable part of Michigan’s wetland ecosystem. Several other species, including butterflies, small mammals and amphibians, rely on the massasauga’s habitat to survive.
As a benefit to both wildlife and humans, the massasauga also consumes a large number of ticks.
“There are some studies that suggest that a healthy snake population actually helps reduce the number of ticks on the landscape,” said Bill Flanagan, Conservation Manager at John Ball Zoo.
As the JBZ conservation team works to preserve the massasauga snake population, they are also working to protect other endangered species in the area that live in the same kind of habitat.
“All the work that we do to protect the massasauga, or one of those other species, works for all of those species,” said Flanagan.
However, the massasauga is declining in numbers and considered a federally threatened species in Michigan due to fragmented habitat and habitat loss.
“This is a really unique, threatened species that is linked to Michigan in a large way,” said Flanagan, adding that Michigan has more massasauga populations than any other state or province. “Michigan is critical for the eastern massasauga rattlesnake. Whatever happens to the massasauga in Michigan will define the outcome for the species.”
Counting snakes and building fences
John Ball Zoo has partnered with Sarett Nature Center in a long-term monitoring program to learn more about the massasauga with the goal of helping their population recover and thrive.
“One of the biggest challenges with these kinds of efforts to save species is that it’s really hard to actually count them,” said Flanagan. “The methodology for counting them has evolved over the years.”
Severe damage can be done to the habitat simply by walking through it while counting the species.
“We want to be really cautious and figure out a way that we can do that without having to walk into the habitat as much as we have in the past,” said Flanagan.
Massasaugas have unique markings to help conservationists identify individual snakes (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)
In May, members of JBZ’s conservation team began data collection at Sarett Nature Center using new technology that is less disruptive than the traditional approach of sending out conservation team members on foot. The conservation team set up a two-foot drift fence that runs across the habitat where the rattlesnakes are most active. The fence functions as a funnel, encouraging small animals to crawl through a bucket that has a camera.
“It’s a passive way to count and see what’s there,” said Flanagan, noting that massasauga snakes have a unique saddle pattern on their backs like fingerprints and unique markings on their heads that can help identify individual snakes.
The fence will stay up indefinitely and capture data when the massasauga is most active — in May and during the fall months of September and October.
“Working with Sarett Nature Center, John Ball Zoo has been able to monitor the massasauga rattlesnake,” Flanagan said. “This new monitoring system will be an excellent low-impact method to track massasaugas while protecting the habitat that supports them. What we learn from this program will help inform us for future conservation strategies.”
Preserving more than just snakes
This conservation project is part of the Zoo’s greater mission of preserving wildlife and wild places.
“Part of our mission is to protect wild animals, but also wild places,” said Flanagan. “The work we do to protect wild places is critically important for those wild animals, but it also makes a nicer place for people too.”
Enjoying the massasauga experience – from a distance
Some of the massasauga’s population decline, aside from habitat loss, is intentional killing due fear of it being venomous. Flanagan, however, said that massasaugas are shy and will often freeze and wait for human observers to move on, often rattling their tails as a warning if they feel threatened.
JBZ encourages those who encounter the species, or another type of snake, to leave it alone and do not attempt to handle it.
“Enjoy that experience – from a distance – if you encounter one,” said Flanagan, saying the best course of action is to take a picture from a safe distance and report the viewing. “That’s the kind of information that is really valuable for the conservation community and knowing where these (massasaugas) are.”
Volunteers with trash pulled from Buck Creek 2021 (Courtesy, Martha Stout Vermeulen)
By Deborah Reed
deborah@wktv.org
Volunteers of all ages are welcome to meet at Lemery Park in Wyoming at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19 to help remove trash from Buck Creek during the family-friendly 10th Annual Buck Creek Clean Up event.
Event team leaders will assist in finding sites that meet volunteer needs and will provide necessary information.
“It has been said that an individual’s effort is a single drop, but when a community gives effort, it is a tsunami,” said Martha Stout Vermeulen, Founder and former President of Friends of Buck Creek-Michigan (FOBC).
Trash lines a portion of Buck Creek near an EJ manufacturing facility (Courtesy, Martha Stout Vermeulen)
FOBC began as a grassroots group of concerned citizens that has evolved into a nonprofit watershed organization with hundreds of followers on Facebook and Instagram. FOBC’s focus is to inspire, initiate, promote, and engage in activities that improve and enhance both the environmental quality and the beauty of Buck Creek.
Over the past decade, Friends of Buck Creek-Michigan (FOBC) and Schrems West Michigan Trout Unlimited (SWMTU) have partnered to remove trash from the Buck Creek watershed in Grandville by organizing the annual Buck Creek Clean Up. On Aug. 19, current FOBC President Becky Dykhuis will extend the clean up into Kentwood and Byron Township.
Volunteer numbers have grown steadily since the event’s inception, with several tons of trash removed from the rare urban trout stream’s waters. Tires, shopping carts, microwaves, 55 gallon drums, and scary-looking dolls are only a few items removed from the creek.
The most frequent, and toxic, trash recovered is plastic and styrofoam.
A portion of Buck Creek after clean up near an EJ manufacturing facility (Courtesy, Martha Stout Vermeulen)
Vermeulen says she has observed several benefits resulting from the annual clean up, and a definite reduction in trash in areas that have been frequently cleaned.
“Getting citizens up close and personal with Buck Creek reveals problems that a disposable society creates, and increases awareness to reduce and reuse,” said Vermeulen. “Indeed, it takes a community to love a creek!”
The state of Michigan has allocated another $5 million to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to help with the development of the Sustainable Business Park in Kent County that will create jobs and increase recycling.
The budget allocation will support site infrastructure at the Sustainable Business Park and follows an initial $4 million state investment for the project in 2022. Last month, the Michigan Public Service Commission also granted a $5 million Low Carbon Energy Infrastructure Enhancement and Development grant for the Kent County Bioenergy Facility, the anchor tenant at the Sustainable Business Park.
The Kent County Bioenergy Facility represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for West Michigan and the state to drastically increase recycling, reduce dependence on landfills, and create local jobs. The facility is a public-private partnership between the Department of Public Works and Anaergia. The Sustainable Business Park, planned for 250 acres adjacent to the South Kent Landfill in Byron Center pending approval by the Kent County Board of Commissioners, will be built on land that was initially purchased by Kent County to create a new landfill.
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“For too long, Michigan has been a dumping ground for trash and the Sustainable Business Park will help change that by increasing recycling and boosting our energy independence starting right here in Kent County,” said Dar Baas, director of the Kent County DPW. “We are thankful the state of Michigan recognizes the importance of reducing our dependence on landfilling so we can help protect our land, air and water, including our Great Lakes.”
The Kent County Bioenergy Facility is a mixed waste processing facility that will process up to 600,000 tons per year of municipal solid waste and 175,000 tons per year of organic waste to produce natural gas and fertilizer. The facility and greater Sustainable Business Park will help Kent County achieve its goal of diverting 90% of trash from landfills by 2030.
“Sustainable materials management is essential to Michigan growing a vibrant circular economy that puts Michiganders to work making new products from the materials residents take to their curb each week,” said EGLE Public Information Officer Jeff Johnston. “EGLE is eager to support projects that align with the State of Michigan’s new materials management plan to increase recycling, conserve natural resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
State Rep. Rachel Hood (D-Grand Rapids) said, “Kent County’s Sustainable Business Park will define the future for waste management in Michigan and boost the viability of circular economy concepts.”
The new facility will also reduce Kent County’s reliance on landfilling municipal solid waste, meaning resources will not be spent constructing, maintaining, and monitoring additional landfills.
“Building the facility in Kent County will put West Michigan on the map as a national leader in recycling and reducing waste, as well as create jobs and investment from companies that can join the Sustainable Business Park and convert waste into usable products,” Bass said.
The Kent County Development of Public Works provides municipal solid waste disposal services to ensure the effective removal, storage and disposal of residential and commercial solid waste through various facilities and programs, including Waste-to-Energy, the Recycling and Education Center, North Kent Transfer Station, and South Kent Landfill.
An Air Quality Alert has been issued across Michigan due to wildfire smoke from Quebec, Canada that has blanketed West Michigan, creating a haze that has drastically reduced visibility and air quality throughout the state.
With 483 active fires across Canada and that smoke infiltrating the United States, an Air Quality Alert has been issued for all of Michigan through June 28.
Earlier this week saw the Air Quality Index (AQI) for Grand Rapids well over 200, firmly in the “very unhealthy” category. As of 8 a.m. Wednesday, the AQI is classified as “unhealthy” with AirNow placing Grand Rapids at 195 and IQAir at 192.
While these numbers fluctuate and are projected to drop over the next few days, the current air quality has prompted health advisories that remain in effect.
Recommendations:
*Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
*Shorten the length of outdoor activities
*Move physical activities indoors or reschedule them
Wyoming concert and Whitecaps canceled Tuesday night events
Several West Michigan activities were canceled or postponed, including the West Michigan Whitecaps game scheduled for Tuesday evening and the Wyoming Concerts in the Park performance by Cabildo. The Whitecaps game has been rescheduled to Friday, June 30 as the first game of a doubleheader.
“Having to reschedule activities due to poor air quality was new terrain for us,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Parks and Recreation director. “While it was disappointing to postpone the concert, we are looking forward to rescheduling and hosting this community event. Public safety is of the utmost importance and that guides the decision to cancel or postpone programs.
“Stay tuned for Concert in the Parks updates by following us on social media.”
The Whitecaps posted a statement on Twitter stating, “In consultation with local weather and health officials, and for the safety of fans and players and in accordance with MLB safety guidelines, tonight’s game has been postponed due to poor air quality.”
While many outdoor events were canceled or postponed and others moved indoors, some events like the Michigan National Guard Air flyover on Tuesday still occurred, though those lining the Grand River were disappointed, unable to see the aircraft due to the smoke covering the sky.
West Michigan residents are urged to continue precautions and limit outdoor activities through Wednesday, June 28th.
For more information on the Canadian wildfires, visit the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre Inc website.
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
John Hartig, the retired director of the U.S.-Canada Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, North America’s only international refuge. Credit: University of Windsor.
A new book about the Great Lakes is written to reflect that their problems, solutions and champions are interrelated, much like the ecosystem it portrays.
“This whole thing of bringing stakeholders together, creating a vision, co-producing knowledge, co-innovating solutions is in the book,” author John Hartig said. “You don’t get that anywhere else.”
Hartig’s “Great Lakes Champions: Grassroots Efforts to Clean Up Polluted Watersheds” (Michigan State University Press, $24.95) highlights 14 people who created programs and solutions to help communities that depend on the lakes.
These leaders took on the goal of restoring the Great Lakes through service and guidance at such environmental hotspots as the Detroit River, River Raisin, Rouge River and Muskegon Lake.
They all are hardworking and determined and share the same love for the lakes, Hartig said.
“The pollution problems of the Great Lakes are really people problems,” he said. “People created these problems and to solve them it’s going to take people working together.”
The retired director of the U.S.-Canada Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, North America’s only international refuge, Hartig continues his lifelong Great Lakes work as a visiting scholar at the University of Windsor and member of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy board of directors.
Through research, education and advocacy, he has fought for the cleanup of the lakes, demonstrating why action is necessary and significant to the communities that benefit from them. And he’s paid attention to people who have done similar work.
Hartig profiled people he deemed as Great Lakes champions. They share the same passion and help their communities remember how important the lakes are for people.
“They’re wel- respected in the community and they have trust,” Hartig said. “It takes sometimes decades to get trust.”
Such trust comes from advocacy groups, religious organizations, governments and industry, he said.
“They were these facilitators of the process and that takes a rare person.”
The champions include a married couple working to clean up Green Bay,Wisconsin, drain commissioners who brought communities together to do group service, members of the Water-keeper Alliance that led many efforts in keeping the water clean and safe to consume, local government officials who fought to clean up industrial processes. Many of these people worked on environmental justice before it was fashionable, especially in Detroit, Hartig said.
These champions realize it is important to know that when you do not know the answer, you should create boundaries on what you are an expert on and what you need to seek more knowledge on, Hartig said. It is a strategy that creates connections. People who are okay with saying they do not know everything create a sense of modesty and open the door for collaboration, Hartig said.
John Hartig notes that new Great Lakes champions can apply lessons learned in the past to emerging problems. Image: Michigan State University Press, $24.95).
And new Great Lakes champions are emerging, he said. People strive every day to help the lakes out and to continue the work of the earlier champions.
The lessons learned by the generation of champions he wrote about should not get lost as today’s problems call for a new mechanisms and assets to solve them, Hartig said. Each generation comes with its set of environmental issues. Thirty years ago, science was more respected than it is now.
The misinformation that is prevalent today washes away the foundations of science, he said. Years ago, everyone just believed and trusted what was said about the environment.
That erosion of trust in science complicates problems like climate change. Emerging champions will have to learn to balance work in progress while staying up to date with what climate change is doing, he said.
“I think this generation has some other challenges to deal with like misinformation and disinformation,” Hartig said. “They have to fight that battle and then now I think they have to also be always thinking about climate change.”
Climate change is the most pressing environmental challenge of our time, he said.
It leads to intense storms, higher water runoff and more erosion that can contaminate food webs and chains. The emerging champions must have the same passion as the previous ones. But they are taking on distinct challenges with a new wave of environmental problems. Good facilitators and having a passionate support system fuels the involved individuals to becoming champions, he said.
What makes it different is that it manifests “the importance and the value and benefit of the ecosystem approach,” Hartig said.
Area residents are encouraged to bike, walk or share rides ruing Active Commute Week. (Pxhere.com)
Active Commute Week is underway in the Grand Rapids area with commuters having the opportunity to set up an account to log all “green” trips for a chance to win prizes.
Running through Thursday, June 15, Active Commute Week is hosted by The Rapid’s West Michigan Rideshare in partnership with the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum. The week-long event aims to promote positive changes in individual commuting habits within the community. Through friendly competition, participants are encouraged to embrace greener methods of transportation, such as taking the bus, walking, running and cycling to improve the environment and support a healthy lifestyle.
Commuters may set up an account with the option to join a team or register as an individual to log all “green” trips throughout the week for a chance to win prizes. These trips can be anything from biking to work, riding the bus to the grocery store, or carpooling to lunch. From the account portal, commuters will be able to monitor their reduction in carbon footprint to watch their real-time environmental impact.
The Rapid will host a variety of events from food trucks to free bike repairs with it all culminating in a community celebration set for Friday, June 16 from 4 – 4 p.m. The community celebration will be on the second floor of the Rapid Central Station and include a reward ceremony for the top commuters. There also will be a chance to win raffle prizes, enjoy beer from Brewery Vivant, pizza from Peppino’s, mingle with the active commuters, and enjoy artwork from students around the community.
All activities will be held around the Rapid Central station, 250 Ceasar E. Chavez Ave. SW.
