Category Archives: Kids Activities

Take an ‘awesomely autumn’ class at the Downtown Market this October

September 14, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, Entertainment, Food, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Upcoming Eventsautumn, autumn nights, Beer, classes, cocktails, Cooking, Downtown Market, Fall, foodJoanne

Fall is just around the corner, and you know what that means: Time to celebrate the season with classes at the Downtown Market!

For the complete fall schedule, go here. To download a pdf of classes and events, go here. (There are classes for everyone — family, kids and adults.) Meanwhile, here are just a few highlights:

AUTUMN NIGHTS IN THE MEDITERRANEAN
Fri, October 14, 6p-8:30p • $65

The Mediterranean always offers bright flavors and healthy meals. You’ll master an olive tapenade, herb-fresh tabouli, chicken souvlaki, and a citrus semolina cake. Learn how to select authentic ingredients and how the right olive oil can add the finishing touches to your meal. Register here.

STEWS & BREWS
Tue, October 18, 6p-8:30p • $65 (21+)

Pair some great beers while snacking on Beer Nuts and make a classic gumbo, a hearty meat and bean chili, sweet cornbread and chocolate stout brownies. Register here.

PUMPKIN PATCH COOKING

Fri, October 21, 6p-8:30p • $55

Celebrate pumpkins in the most delicious ways! You will enjoy some fresh-roasted pumpkin hummus while creating pumpkin sage soup, roasted herb chicken with pumpkin polenta and festive pumpkin cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. Register here.

BOOOOOOOZY HALLOWEEN COCKTAIL PARTY

Tue, October 25, 6p-8:30p • $55

In this class, you will learn how to make cocktails along with an appetizer and dessert to host the spookiest Halloween cocktail party. Learn how to make Pumpkin Cauldron Rhum Punch, Apple Cider and Bourbon Spritzers, mini pumpkin cream soup, and a fall tiramisu. Register here.

Forget Pokemon — see and touch real animals at Michigan zoos and wildlife centers

August 30, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Pets/Animals, Travelbinder park zoo, Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park, Critten Barn, Deer Tracks Junction, Grand Traverse Butterfly & Bug Zoo, Grass River Natural Area, John Ball Zoo, kids, Lewis Farm Market, Outdoor Discovery Center, Shanty Creek Resorts, Stowaway Charters, TravelJoanne

zebra-540x200 — Photo courtesy of Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park

Move over, Pokemon. You’re nothing compared to the real deal.

As easy as it is to enjoy animals and nature through books and pictures, there’s just something about seeing them for yourself that is truly incredible. West Michigan is gifted with an array of indigenous wildlife as well as zoos that provide guests a glimpse into a greater world. Here are some places to see, touch and learn about a variety of animals.

South

Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance works closely with Binder Park Zoo to promote animal education to people of all ages. The zoo features an award-winning “Wild Africa” exhibit where you can actually feed the giraffes and see zebras. There are over 140 different species of animals throughout the 433-acre zoo.

See some birds up close at the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary in Augusta. You and your family can spend time with dozens of species of birds such as swans, owls, ducks and more. There’s a great resource center where you can learn about the sanctuary’s birds as well as purchase corn to feed them.

South Haven/Van Buren County has tons of local orchards featuring petting zoos with farm animals. You can feed the chickens, goats, alpacas and bunnies that call these orchards their home. Come and enjoy the animals up close and in person while picking blueberries, sweet and sour cherries, peaches, plums, apples, and pumpkins in season. You simply can’t beat fresh fruit and hanging out with these farm animals.

Critter Barn in Zeeland has lots of baby animals in their barn. In June, three Angora goats were born as well as four lambs. The new lambs are the result of off-season breeding which is a first for Critter Barn. Come see the babies — and your kids will also enjoy pony rides and other animal-centric events.

anim_zebu — Photo courtesy of Lewis Farm Market

Central

Learn about animals up close and personal in Muskegon County this summer. Lewis Farm Market has a 700-acre petting zoo with a variety of animals and birds that you can touch. The market is open through October so you have plenty of time to visit these animals yourself. There’s also a raptor rehabilitation clinic where you can learn about wildlife conservation, ecology and habitat preservation.

It’s salmon season for Stowaway Charters in Ludington. Fish the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan for trout and salmon with everything you need on board. Bait and tackle is included and they’ll even clean and bag what you catch on your return trip.

Mecosta County has a wildlife center where you can learn more about animals! This is a fantastic educational tool if you’re planning a school trip or just want to take your family on an educational trip. There’s a lot to learn about nature and the animals that inhabit it, and Mecosta County will help you further your wildlife education.

Deer Tracks Junction in Cedar Springs has some of the most unique animal experiences you can have. How does feeding a yak sound? Or kissing a reindeer? They also have many cute animals that you can cuddle up with, such as miniature donkeys, baby goats and baby bunnies. In the evenings, take their guided tour to see some of their adult animals. End your visit with some homemade ice cream made right on the farm and you’ll have a packed day.

The Outdoor Discovery Center in Holland connects people with nature through outdoor education for the benefit of wildlife and the conservation of the natural world. They protect over 1,200 acres along the Macatawa River in Ottawa County and a 150-acre nature preserve in Fillmore Township. The Outdoor Discovery Center Nature Preserve is free and open to the public and offers many diverse programs that help foster the concepts of wildlife management, conservation, outdoor education and preservation.

Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park in Alto is located on 80 acres of land and offers unique, hands-on experiences for the entire family. The park boasts a distinct collection of exotic animals and reptiles, and the variety and dynamic atmosphere make Boulder Ridge anything but your average zoo. They’re open until mid-October so you have plenty of time to check out all the animals.

John Ball Zoological Garden in Grand Rapids features 1,200 animals including chimpanzees, a Komodo dragon, penguins, an aquarium, tigers, lions, bears and a children’s zoo. The zoo takes an active role in conservation, not only here in Michigan, but around the world. The zoo is celebrating its 125th birthday right now, so make sure to visit during this monumental year.

North

Check out some of the animals that you can see up close in Traverse City. There’s a diverse array of birds that find their way to the area. Two rare birds, the piping plover and the Kirtland’s Warbler, nest in the area. Traverse City even has a bird sanctuary and rehabilitation center that raises awareness and rehabilitates hawks, eagles, owls and other raptors.

If you’re interested in smaller flying animals, visit the Grand Traverse Butterfly & Bug Zoo. Here, you can interact with hundreds of live butterflies from around the world and see hundreds of exotic insects behind glass. the GT Butterfly & Bug Zoo is open all summer so you have plenty of time to check out all of the cool things.

The Charlevoix Area promotes animal awareness and has a family-friendly educational center that is all about hands-on learning. They also have a great fruit stand.

Located in Bellaire, Shanty Creek Resorts has 4,500 acres to explore with more than enough animals for you to find. Grab a pair of hiking boots, walking shoes or even a bicycle to enjoy the on-site trails at the resort. Keep an eye out for wildlife and make sure to document anything cool that you see. Shanty Creek also offers a free shuttle to the Grass River Natural Area (below) so you can explore there as well.

Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire offers a great place to experience local wildlife. Seven miles of trails and boardwalk take visitors up close through cedar swamp, sedge meadow and upland forest. This area is perfect for a school group, day camp and the general public. Take some time to walk through this beautiful area and enjoy all that it has to offer.

Don’t miss Yassou! Grand Rapids Greek Cultural Festival Aug. 26-28

August 26, 2016Beer, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Food, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Upcoming Eventsdancing, drink, Festival, food, holy trinity greek orthodox church, Music, Victoria Mullen, yassouJoanne

Food. Dance. Opa!

The smell of lemon, oregano and garlic fill the air as fresh meats are grilled over open flames and the sight of the pastry table proves to be more than anyone’s willpower could bear. From a great live band and dance demonstrations, to wine tastings and cooking classes, there is something for everyone at Yassou!

The food

An assortment of freshly prepared authentic Greek food and pastries will tempt even the most stubborn palate. Great effort has been put into obtaining fresh, local ingredients wherever possible, from the eggplant in the Moussaka, to the tomatoes that go on your Gyros and in your salad.

Choose from appetizers, full meals, sandwiches and side items. And do not forget dessert — baklava is only the beginning. Menu items are available as complete meals or a la carte. Prices range from $5 for most a la carte items to $14 for most complete meals.

The dance

Besides irresistible Greek food, there will be plenty of Greek dancing, a very old tradition that has been documented by Plato, Aristotle, Plutarch and Lucian. Traditional Greek dancing has a primarily social function, bringing the community together at key points of the year, such as Easter, the grape harvest or patronal festivals; and at key points in the lives of individuals and families, like weddings.

Holy Trinity’s youth dancers will don traditional Grecian dress and perform some of these spectacular dances. Then, when the time is right, join hands with members of the dancing circle and join in. Beginners are always welcome.

The wine (and beer)

Greece is one of the oldest wine producing regions in the world — evidence of wine production dates back more than 6,500 years. Since that time, wines have been shared and enjoyed not only in households, but in communal celebrations. And what cultural celebration would be complete without access to the local libations?

Here’s what’s happening and when

Friday, August 26, 2016: 3 -10 pm

Live music from open to close, The Levendes.
4 pm: Greek cooking class.
5 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (12-17 y/o).
6 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (5-12 y/o).
7 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (12-17+).
8:15 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (18+).
8:35 pm: Dance lessons and open dancing for all!
8:00 pm: Children’s play area closes.

Saturday, August 27, 2016: 11 am – 10 pm

Live music from open to close, The Levendes.
1:00 pm: Greek cooking class.
2:30 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (12-17 y/o).
4:00 pm: Wine tasting.
5:00 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (12-17 y/o).
6:00 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (5-12 y/o).
6:00 pm: Greek cooking class.
7:15 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (12-17+).
8:15 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (18+).
8:35 pm: Dance lessons and open dancing for all!
8:00 pm: Children’s play area closes.

Sunday, August 28, 2016: 12-4 pm

No live band. DJ playing modern Greek music.
2:00 Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (5-12 y/o).
3:00 pm: Traditional Greek dance demonstrations (12-17 y/o).

OK, so you’ve been warned. The Yassou! Grand Rapids Greek Cultural Festival is always a crowd pleaser, and this year it’s happening Friday, Aug. 26 through Sunday, Aug. 28 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 330 Lakeside Dr. NE between Fulton and Michigan.

New Mini Exhibit ‘An Olympic View’ Opening at the Grand Rapids Public Museum

July 21, 20163-bottom, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local History, Upcoming EventsAn Olympic View, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Museum ExhibitJoanne

By: Kate Moore

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today the new mini exhibit An Olympic View will open July 23rd. With the Summer Olympics arriving soon, this exhibit celebrates the history of the Games, athletes from Grand Rapids, as well as the Brazil, the 2016 host.

This year is the first year the Olympics will take place in a South American country. An Olympic View allows visitors to learn more about Rio de Janeiro, Brazil leading up to and during the 2016 Summer Olympics. Visitors will learn about Ancient Greek history and see Ancient Greek artifacts that are part of the GRPM’s Collections. Other artifacts include insect jewelry, Brazilian coins, ancient Greek Lekythos as well as much more.

Grand Rapids Public Museum opens a new exhibit tomorrow. — Grand Rapids Public Museum readies for An Olympic View

In the modern era, 12 athletes from Grand Rapids have competed in Olympic Games. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about each of these 12 athletes, their sport and if they were Olympic medalists. In An Olympic View visitors will explore the locations of the modern Olympic Games. Visitors will pose as a gold medalist in this year’s Olympics in an interactive photo opportunity.

Admission to the mini exhibit An Olympic View will be included with general admission to GRPM. This exhibit will be on display from July 23 – August 21, 2016, coinciding with the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Brazil.

The Museum plans to showcase several mini-exhibitions, or pop-up exhibits, each year. They are modeled after pop-up stores, and are intended to be shorter in duration, showcase something new, tie into national and current events and showcase the GRPM’s Collections on a routine basis to the community. For further details visit grpm.org.

So much to see and do on National Night Out, August 2

July 16, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Entertainment, Food, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsCommunity, Kentwood Fire Dept., local heroes, National Night Out, NNO, Wyoming PDJoanne

National Night Out celebrates local heroes and the community

By Victoria Mullen

WKTV

Each year on the first Tuesday of August — this year, August 2^nd — homeowners across America are encouraged to lock their doors, flip on their outside lights and spend the evening outdoors celebrating with neighbors.

National Association of Town Watch’s (NATW) annual National Night Out program focuses on building relationships between police and community members by offering free family activities, including block parties, cookouts, safety demonstrations and live entertainment. More than 38 million people nationwide are expected to take part this year.

A bit o’ history

Neighborhood Watch is one of the oldest and most effective crime prevention programs in the country, bringing citizens together with law enforcement to deter crime and make communities safer.

Sponsored by the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA), Neighborhood Watch can trace its roots back to the days of colonial settlements, when night watchmen patrolled the streets. The modern version of Neighborhood Watch was developed in response to requests from sheriffs and police chiefs who were looking for a crime prevention program that would involve citizens and address an increasing number of burglaries.

Launched in 1972, Neighborhood Watch counts on citizens to organize themselves and work with law enforcement to keep a trained eye and ear on their communities, while demonstrating their presence at all times of day and night. (The program took off quickly: in just 10 years, NSA data showed that 12 percent of the population was involved in a Neighborhood Watch.) Neighborhood Watch works because it reduces opportunities for crime to occur; it doesn’t rely on altering or changing the criminal’s behavior or motivation.

National Night Out has been extraordinarily successful in promoting involvement in crime and drug prevention activities, strengthening police-community relations and encouraging neighborhood camaraderie as part of the fight for safer streets. Since 1984, National Night Out — America’s Night Out Against Crime has grown to involve over 30 million people from more than 9,000 communities.

Each year local Police Departments actively participate in the neighborhood Night Out celebrations. Contact Wyoming Staff Sergeant at 616.257.9711 and Kentwood Staff Sergeant at 616.656.6564 for more information.

So, what’s happening?

The day starts out early — 7 am — at the Consumers’ Energy building (4000 Clay Ave. SW in Wyoming), where mayors and dignitaries from Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Wyoming, Grandville and other local municipalities will gather to recite the NNO credo. Here’s a great opportunity to meet your local leaders!

From 10:30 am-2:30 pm, come on out to Woodland Mall near Celebration Cinema and Red Robin for a day of fun, prizes, games, and popcorn! The Kentwood Police Department will have law enforcement vehicles on display so you can get an upfront, close and personal look at the equipment officers use to answer your calls.

South Kent’s 7th National Night Out will feature a Black Hawk fly-in at 2 pm and takeoff at 7:45 pm. The fly-in and landing will be to the west of Peppinos (located at 1515 Eastport Dr. SE), so keep an eye on the sky!

From 5:30-8 pm, join local police, fire and other neighborhood partners as GR Kroc Center (2500 South Division Ave. SW in Grand Rapids) celebrates community safety and togetherness. A giant slip & slide will be open, plus you can test your family’s skills in the Kroc Summer Games. Concessions will be available to purchase and enjoy FREE ice cream from Country Fresh! Sponsored by Molina Healthcare and National Heritage Academies.

The Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission will celebrate from 7-9 pm with demonstrations and appearances by Wyoming PD, K-9 units, a SWAT vehicle and fire ladder truck along with lots of giveaways throughout the night — from kids’ toys up to $50 gift cards. Join in the celebration of local heroes with great local food and entertainment! Don’t miss the last Concert in the Park event of the year — it will be a blast with catchy Conjunto and Tehano music by Grupo Viento de Los Hermanos Valdez. It all happens at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW in Wyoming. Go here for more info.

Christ Community Church (2400 Forest Hill Ave. SE in Grand Rapids) will celebrate NNO with highlights like face painting, bouncy houses (for the kids, folks), 100-ft-long slip and slides, live music, refreshments, a raffle, lawn games and a dunk tank, with visits from the Kentwood Fire Department, McGruff the Crime Fighting Dog, Kentwood City Police and more. For more info, go here.

There’s so much to see and do, and only a couple short hours to enjoy it! So get involved, join in this evening of easy-breezy fun and create some great memories.

Get Fifi and Fido involved, too!

Have a dog? Consider getting involved with Dog Walker Watch! There are dozens, if not hundreds, of dog walkers throughout the community at all times of the day, all days of the week, in all weather conditions, who are often preoccupied with texting, chatting, emailing and listening to music during their neighborhood walks. Dog Walker Watch trains these individuals how to effectively observe and report suspicious activity. Go here for more info.

More info

Strong police and community partnership is a critical component of community-oriented policing and problem-solving model. Over the past few years, Neighborhood Watch groups have surfaced as highly effective tools in the detection, reporting and prevention of crime and criminal activity.

There are many active Neighborhood Watch groups operating throughout our local municipalities. Group participants hold regular meetings that allow you to meet your neighbors and discuss problems which may be occurring in your district and develop strategies and methods for dealing with them. By becoming familiar with your neighborhood, you are better prepared to detect and report suspicious activity or potential problem individuals or vehicles in your area.

The Wyoming Police department provides personal assistance to Wyoming residents interested in establishing new Watch Groups and with the facilitation of existing programs. If you or your neighbors are interested in establishing a Neighborhood Crime Watch Program in your Wyoming neighborhood, please contact Staff Sergeant at 616.257.9711. In Kentwood, contact Staff Sergeant at 616.656.6564.

Have we missed anything? Let us know — email Victoria at victoria@wktv.org.

High ropes course brings adventure to Grand Rapids

July 13, 20163-bottom, Kids Activities, Local Business, Recreationadventure, Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure, High ropes course, Mike DeWitt, ziplineJoanne

By: Mike DeWitt

Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

Standing on an unstable wooden pallet suspended twenty feet in the air, I glanced at the forest floor below. Twenty feet feels a lot higher when you’re looking down at the ground than looking up from it.

Only two more pallets to traverse before making it to relative safety. After all, there is another obstacle waiting. As I took the next step, my balance faltered and my body hurled its way towards impending doom.

“Are you okay?” shouted Joanne, my partner in crime for the afternoon, from the platform behind me.

“Yeah! I was just trying to get a good shot with the GoPro,” I quickly answered back after realizing my harness held me safely up amongst the trees at the Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park.

New this year, the Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park is the only high ropes course in Grand Rapids. Located in the woods behind Celebration Cinema North at 2121 Celebration Dr NE, the Treetop Adventure Park offers obstacles like bridges, cargo nets, swinging logs, rings, skateboards and zip-lines.

“We have stuff for all ages,” said Amy Dyer, a staff member at Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park. “We have a small zipline course for the littler kids. As long you have a parent and a really gung-ho kid, no matter what the age you are, you’re going to have a good time.”

The park features six different courses that range in difficulty from easiest to most difficult, much like a ski resort does with green, blue and black runs. For the smaller kids, the Junior Park offers a chance to experience the thrill of being off the ground. For those looking for a challenge, the most difficult courses might cause some hesitation before making the climb.

The park is open seven days a week from 10am to 9pm. Throughout the rest of the summer, the park will host a Glow Night every Friday from 6 to 10pm.

If you plan to make a trip to see what adventures await in the trees, don’t take it lightly and come ready for the challenge.

“Just keep in mind that it’s a lot more physical than people think,” said Dyer. “You’re coming here to challenge yourself more than anything. So, bring water and wear comfortable clothes and shoes.”

While the goal is to challenge yourself, Dyer also reiterated the true reason for the park’s existence.

“It will be a lot of fun regardless of your skill and ability level.”

Filming for the video was done on one of the four GoPro Cameras available at WKTV for checkout. For more information, visit wktv.org or call 616-261-5700.

Art of Kids Helping Kids is Food for All

June 22, 20163-bottom, Area Education, Education, Kids Activities, Non-ProfitsErin Albanese, Kids Food Basket, School News Network, Wyoming BranchJoanne

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

By: Erin Albanese — School News Network

As Oriole Park Elementary fourth-grader Adam Lagerway painted a cardboard carrot, second-grader Allie Evans thought about how a local organization feeds hungry students. “Six thousand sack suppers!” she shouted, while transforming her own art materials into food shapes.

Students in teacher Laura Sluys’ special education class were making a sculpture out of recycled materials with a visiting artist from the organization Artists Creating Together.

The piece was donated to Kids’ Food Basket, a non-profit the class has worked all year to support.

Students presented the completed sculpture, a box with food flowing out of it like a cornucopia, to Brandy Arnold, KFB Kids Helping Kids coordinator. Painted brightly were cardboard, cans, toilet paper rolls, bottles and other items made into sandwiches, apples, juice boxes, bananas, celery and yogurt.

It was the culmination of a school year spent combining creativity, compassion and lots of trail mix. Sluys received a $200 Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation Service Learning Grant to fund the project with KFB, dubbed “Disabling Hunger.”

She also received a grant through Artists Creating Together, which provides artist-in-residencies for students with special needs across Kent County for her class to complete the project with artist Nora Faber.

Sluys said she decided to combine the two experiences for her students. “It helps them connect all the pieces of what they’ve been doing.”

Students raised money for Kids Food Basket by collecting pennies

Throughout the school year, Sluys’ students have completed monthly efforts for KFB. They led all Oriole Park students in decorating and donating 214 bags for Brown Bag Decorating Day.

They made and packed trail mix in 100 plastic sandwich bags. They collected pennies to donate.

A $300 Target stores field trip grant also funded a grocery-shopping trip to purchase food to donate, and students volunteered at KFB. “We put some pudding in baskets so they can give them to kids that are hungry,” said second-grader Jamiah Abron.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Let the (Kids)Games Begin!

June 9, 2016Area Education, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, VolunteersJack Ponstine, KidsGames, KidsGames West Michigan, Mike DeWitt, Shane Buist, Wyoming, Wyoming Junior HighJoanne

By: Mike DeWitt

Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

Wyoming Public Schools closed the doors last weekend and ushered in the end of the school year. This Monday, churches and volunteers from around the area will reopen the doors to Wyoming Jr. High School and welcome in over 200 kids to participate in a worldwide, faith-based movement called KidsGames.

The idea started over a decade ago in the Middle East and Spain to give children an experience in a sporting event over the summer. Since then, KidsGames has expanded and evolved all over the world, including right here in West Michigan.

“One of the founding fathers of KidsGames International, Michael Wozniak, is local here in West Michigan,” said Jack Ponstine, the founder of KidsGames in Wyoming. “There was already an event in Byron Center, so he reached out to me to get one started in Wyoming. That was nine years ago.”

KidsGames is a free event for children entering 1st-6th grade. It is focused on making the week as fun as possible while building strong character and building a relationship in Christ. Each night starts with the whole group (kids and volunteers) meeting in the gymnasium to talk about the mission for the year. Past years have worked with Feeding America and sending sporting equipment to low-income areas. This year, the goal is to raise money for water for Flint.

After the opening meeting, kids are broken into three different groups to learn about nutrition, stories from the Bible, and play experimental games with life lessons incorporated throughout. Kids are then placed into small groups for Bible Discovery Time with a small group leader.

Following small group, it’s time to get active again as kids can choose between many different activities or “Tracks.” The Tracks are led by volunteers and include different games, sports, and crafts. Tracks for this year include basketball, beauty 101, crafts/scrapbooking, drama, jewelry making, karate, legos, painting 101, painting 202, soccer, and wacky science.

“We have more volunteers and Tracks than ever before,” said Ponstine. “We couldn’t do it without the volunteers”

Last year, 64 volunteers from 13 different churches helped out at the week-long event. All 64 were needed to help make the experience as positive as possible for the 181 students, from 57 different schools, that attended.

Things don’t look like they’re about to slow down in 2016 either.

“We already have over 100 that have pre-registered. That doesn’t include the large number who will register on Monday when we start,” said KidsGame coordinator Shane Buist.

When the week is over, Jack Ponstine hopes each family leaves having checked all four boxes:

1. They had a great week with the other children and the leaders.

2. That parents enjoyed dropping their kids off knowing the fun they were about to have and the lessons learned.

3. A positive relationship was built with the small group leader.

4. A strong relationship with Jesus Christ was built upon.

In the end, it all comes back to spreading the word.

“My goal is to get churches to come together to spread ministry,” said Ponstine.

Details about the event are below:

Who: 1st-6th graders and volunteers from churches throughout Wyoming
What: KidsGames: West Michigan
When: Monday, June 13 – Friday, June 17 from 6:00-8:30pm (Registration opens at 5:30 Monday night)
Where: Wyoming Jr. High School (2125 Wrenwood SW, Wyoming, MI 49509)
Why: Building character, making new friends, learning about the Bible and having FUN
Cost: FREE!

Happy birthday! GR Children’s Museum celebrates its 19th year

June 2, 20163-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Upcoming Eventsbirthday, BOXES, Children's Museum, Grand Rapids, Jack Woller, kids activitiesJoanne

My, how time flies — in a blink of an eye, The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is all grown up.

The self-styled ‘advocate for the value of play’ celebrates its 19th year with a Birthday Party Celebration on July 31st. Festivities will include carnival games, bubbles, face painting and more as GRCM shows its appreciation to hundreds of faithful supporters.

The event dovetails with GRCM’s newest exhibit, BOXES, which opened May 24.

Paying tribute to the first traveling exhibit the GRCM ever hosted, BOXES lets kids and their adults build anything they can think of out of cardboard. There are boxes of all shapes and sizes — some that can be stuffed and weighted to use as a base for a bigger structure, some that can be cut and ripped, and some remnant cardboard pieces that can be colored, cut, torn and added on to any special creation.

“BOXES embodies the infinite open-ended play style that The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Mission advocates,” said Jack Woller, Associate Director of the GRCM.

“Guests can build cardboard armor, cities, games and anything that their imagination can come up with.”

As with all exhibits and programs at the museum, this new exhibit is designed to let kids (and their adults) learn through play and stretch their creative muscles.

“Creativity is important to child development, and kids need to be empowered to explore and develop their creativity,” said Woller. “The exploration and experimentation in exhibits like BOXES supports a foundation for learning, invention and scientific discovery throughout life.”

BOXES runs through August, kicking off a year of special events celebrating the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum’s 20^th anniversary.

For more information, contact Adrienne Brown at 616.235.4726 ext 204 or visit the website here.

Sniffing Out the News is Elementary

June 1, 20163-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Kids ActivitiesErin Albanese, Gladiola Elementary School, Gladiola Wolf Tracks, School News Network, student newspaper, Wyoming WolvesJoanne

Students work on stories (credit: Lysa Stockwell)

By: Erin Albanese — School News Network

Gladiola Elementary School students sat around a table and discussed what lead — that’s journalistic jargon for introduction — would be best for this School News Network article about their new student newspaper, Gladiola Wolf Tracks.

“Meet all the students that made the first Gladiola Wolf Tracks newspaper,” said third-grader Megan Sivins.

“This is four out of 16 of the kids that came up with the Wyoming newspaper called Gladiola Wolf Tracks,” suggested fourth-grader Quinton Gebben.

And, “Meet the Gladiola Elementary students who came out on top and made the first Gladiola newspaper in the whole Gladiola school history,” said fourth-grader Brady Flint.

Fourth-grader Maddy Lee considered the best possible lead. She decided Brady had already nailed it.

Sixteen students in the after-school enrichment program at the Wyoming Public Schools building recently launched the newspaper after learning the basics of journalism from fourth-grade teacher Lysa Stockwell and by interviewing teachers, peers, staff members and even community officials, such as Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll.

They’ve covered events and school programs, with cameras and notepads in hand, learning to get details centered around the who, what, when, where and why questions for their stories. They use technology, including Google Docs, and keep current on what’s going on in the building

“They’ve interviewed all the staff members in the building, from teachers to custodians to parent volunteers. It’s been really, really exciting because the more they do the more excited they get,” said Principal David Lyon.

Elile Silvestre and Madeline Pauline interview Wyoming Police Officer Rory Allen (credit: Lysa Stockwell)

Wolves or News Hounds?

The ace cub reporters recently completed the second edition of their newspaper, with plans for another and monthly publications next school year. Lyon said the almost entirely student-written newspaper will incorporate the school’s newsletter.

Parents can donate $5 to have a message to their child published in the newspaper, supporting the costs of publication.

In class, students studied examples of journalism, heard from a local reporter who shared tips and experiences, and learned about interviewing skills, bias and plagiarism.

They also learned the fun they can have with journalism, Stockwell said.

“Generally, kids don’t have the chance to have their writing published and for them to have that opportunity has really been exciting for them,” Stockwell said.

“Writing has become really authentic for them,” Lyon added. “Plus, they are far more alert now to things going on in the building.”

When a story presents itself, Wolf Tracks reporters have jumped at the chance to grab a notepad. For example, they took the initiative to cover a sneak-peek performance of the Wyoming High School musical.

Brady said he enjoyed writing a story about teacher Kimberly Swiger called “Mrs. Swiger: The Inside Story.” In it she talks about her favorite books, and that she’s spent 25 years teaching, has 10 nieces and nephews and attended Gladiola herself.

“Mrs. Swiger told the best stories,” Brady said. “I really liked being an interviewer and reporter and writing the articles. I am a social butterfly.”

Pinky Nguyen and Dion Idizi are busy with the news (credit: Lysa Stockwell)

Back to the Headlines

Discussion around the table continued after the students had found their lede. They talked about their favorite interviews with the art and music teacher and other staff members.
“I like when I interviewed Mr. Lyon. He can ride a unicycle,” Quinton said.

Further conversation led to the fact that Lyon can also juggle, prompting a follow-up question from Brady: “Can he juggle while riding a unicycle?”

Now, there’s a nose for news.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Poetry Slam Competition makes its way to Kentwood Library

May 13, 20163-bottom, City of Kentwood, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsBarri Tiggle, KDL READS, Kentwood District Library, Poetry, Schuler Books, The DiatribeJoanne

By: Barri Tiggle

Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch library is hosting its first live and uncensored spoken word poetry slam competition on Tuesday, May 17 from 7-8 pm.

There were up to 300 entries from Kent county residents between the grades of 6 through 12. The event is free and open to all general public. The event was created based on the original 13^th Annual Teen Poetry Contest held at the KDL branch.

“We decided to add a spoken word component in an effort to breathe a little life into the event, and hopefully attract a segment of kids who otherwise have no outlet for their creativity,” said Greg Lewis KDL Teen Paraprofessional.

Poets are supposed to submit their work online in hopes of being selected. “We amped it up to get more teens involved,” said Carlita Gonzalez, KDL Program and Outreach Specialist.

There are two different categories for the competition, which are written and spoken word. Any submissions are automatically added into the competition.

“GF Korreck will be judging the written portion only,” said Kelsey May, a member of The Diatribe Staff. The Diatribe is an organization used to empower individuals through written and spoken word. Their values consist of helping others cope with challenges and struggles, while finding their own voice and story through the use of poetry. The Diatribe will be participating in the KDL poetry slam event as the master of ceremonies, also known as emcees.

Each winner will be given a prize. The prizes given away are centered on a book and music theme and will be provided by Schuler Books. 20 winners will be chosen, ten from the written portion and ten from the spoken word, and given a $50 gift card. All winning entries will be showcased on the KDL website’s Teen page. As of right now the event is not set as an annual event.

“As long as there is interest, we hope to offer this event, we are definitely planning on next year,” said Lewis.

The entire event is in correlation to as well as funded by KDL READS. For more information on the KDL poetry slam event or upcoming events with The Diatribe please visit kdl.org or thediatribe.org.

Big trucks and hotdogs: It’s National Public Works Week

May 12, 20163-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsKentwood, National Public Works Week, Public Works, WyomingJoanne

Kentwood Public Works Department oversees the city's recycling center. — Kentwood Public Works Department oversees the city’s recycling center.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

It’s the kid in all of us that watches those big machines that build and plow our roads in wonderment and a little bit of awe. Next week, thanks to two local Public Works Departments, we will all get the chance to let our inner child out.

In celebration of National Public Works Week, May 15 – 21, both the Kentwood and Wyoming Public Works Departments will be hosting open houses, giving area residents a chance to discover all that these departments do for the city and its residents.

“Road, water, sewer, recycling, household hazardous waste,” said Kentwood Public Works Director John Gordy as he listed off just some of the items area Public Works Departments take care of on a daily basis.

In 1960 the American Public Works Association established National Public Works Week to create a better understand of the various responsibilities of a Public Works facility in maintaining the infrastructure of its community. This includes such areas as ground maintenance, sewer and water, potholes and road maintenance, and snowplowing to list a few of the many services provided by these departments.

Having hosted a Public Works Week Open House for the past 22 years, the event has become one of the City of Wyoming’s most anticipated activities for families..

The City of Wyoming will have various equipment out at its Public Works Open House set for May 16. — The City of Wyoming will have various equipment pieces out at its Public Works Open House set for May 16.

“It has become a tradition,” said Wyoming’s Public Works Assistant Director Aaron Vis. “We have been doing it so long that people have just come to expect that we will be hosting it.”

Because there are several entrances into the event, its hard for staff to take attendance, Vis said, adding they estimate attendance by the number of hotdogs served.

Last year, the Wyoming Public Works Department went through about 1,800 hotdogs with staff estimating about 1,500 people attended the event. Vis said he expects about the same for this year’s open house which is set for Monday, May 16, from 5 – 8 p.m. at the Wyoming Public Works building, 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW. Various Public Works Department equipment will be on hand for people to explore along with a police cruiser and fire truck. Staff will be on hand to talk to visitors about equipment and projects as well as serving free beverages, chips, and, of course, hotdogs.

Kentwood’s Public Works Department will host its first Public Works Week Family Event with the Kent County Road Commission Wednesday, May 18 from 4 – 7 p.m. at the Kentwood Public Works building, 5068 Breton Rd. SE. Road plow trucks and construction equipment will be on hand for visitors to explore along with 20 different displays on various Public Works topics. Gorney said there also will be live demonstrations on maintenance and repair of water and sewer systems and discussions on how and why different improvements are made on roads. Kent County Public Works officials will be there to discuss household hazardous waste and how to properly dispose of such items. There also will be giveaways for children, free snacks, and yes, hotdogs.

According to APWA’s website, National Public Works Week has been growing with more and more municipalities participating. Besides Wyoming and Kentwood observing the week, the City of Grandville will have a display at its library as part of Michgian Week BBQ, the City of Grand Rapids will mark the entire week with a display of Grand Rapids Public Works equipment on Market Street, and the City of East Grand Rapids will host a “Touch a Truck” event starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 18.

Tulip Time celebrates its 87th year May 7-14 in Holland, Mich

May 6, 20163-bottom, Beer, Entertainment, Food, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Eventsdancers, dutch, Festival, Holland, Kentwood 4th of July parade, Michigan, Tulip TimeJoanne

Holland, Michigan’s Tulip Time 2016 is May 7-14
By Pure Michigan

The beautiful beach town of Holland has been celebrating its Dutch heritage and culture since 1929 and the festivities continue this year. May 7-14, 2016 the Tulip Time Festival will feature parades, traditional Dutch Dance performances, concerts, theatre, Dutch attractions, Dutch food and more. More than 500,000 people from 40 countries travel to the Holland Tulip Time Festival each year.

During your visit at the Tulip Time Festival, you’ll see more than four million tulips decorating city parks, public attractions and city streets. Drive the six miles of Tulip Lanes through Holland’s historic neighborhoods. For more of nature’s beauty, explore Windmill Island Gardens, home to manicured gardens with more than 115,000 tulips, a 250 year-old working Dutch windmill and an antique Dutch carousel. For a more adventurous day, take your family to the Midway Carnival, or have a blast at the Nelis’ Dutch Village Family Theme Park, where the history of the Dutch culture comes to life. Continue the Dutch experience at Dutch Marktplaats, a marketplace where you can delight in the tastes, sights, sounds and crafts of 19th century Holland.

The Tulip Time Festival features three spectacular parades. See the traditional Volksparade, led by thousands of locals in traditional Dutch costumes. Participants gather at the beginning of the parade for the official Street Scrubbing, which includes an appearance by Michigan Governor Rick Snyder. The Johnson Controls Kinderparade, or “children’s parade,” is the largest parade of children in the state. The parade series finishes with GMB Muziekparade “music parade,” one of the most spectacular parades in the state, featuring 4,000 participants including floats, dancers, and bands along Michigan’s longest parade route.

For a relaxed way to experience the tulips, book a Tulip City Tour. The tours are offered daily; purchase your same-day tour tickets at the booth at Centennial Park The hop-on, hop-off tour allows easy access through beautiful Tulip Lanes, Holland’s Historic District, city parks and downtown, and includes admission to Windmill Island Gardens and the Holland Museum, Cappon House and Settler’s House.

While visiting Holland, make sure to take in beautiful Lake Michigan. Visit Holland State Park to view Big Red Lighthouse or Tunnel Park beach to watch a sunset. For a little more adventure, climb the 230 steps to the top of Mt. Pisgah, a 157 foot sand dune. Here, enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa.

Downtown Holland is a great destinations for unique, first-class shopping and dining. For Holland travel information and suggestions, click here. To purchase tickets and to peruse the entertainment opportunities, go here.

Images courtesy of Pure Michigan and Tulip Time

What’s in Your Bucket?

May 5, 20163-bottom, Area Education, Education, Kids ActivitiesErin Albanese, Feeling Bucket, Kelloggsville, Kindness Bucket, School News NetworkJoanne

Kindness Bucket 2 — Counselor Lisa VanKampen is helping students develop a common language around bucket filling at school

By: Erin Albanese — School News Network

Every student at West Kelloggsville Elementary School has an invisible bucket. Johana Cruz explained the importance of keeping everyone’s full.

“If you’re a bucket dipper, you’re not going to have any friends,” explained the second-grader.

Students at the second- and third-grade school are thinking a lot about “bucket filling” and “bucket dipping” as they interact with one another.

“The bucket has one purpose: It holds your good thoughts and good feelings about yourself,” said counselor Lisa VanKampen. “When our bucket is full, we feel great. When it’s empty, we feel awful. Yet most children, and many adults, don’t realize the importance of having a full bucket throughout the day.”

When students fill buckets with kind words and actions, almost magically their own fills up too, she explained. But, alas, say an unkind word or act in a hurtful way, and buckets sink low. VanKampen’s “Have You Filled Your Bucket Today?” program, based on Bucket Fillers 101, is all about spreading kindness to benefit everybody.

Kindness Bucket — Compliments are free and anyone can give them

She says it’s creating a common language at school, a way for students to express their feelings and teachers to state expectations using the bucket as a symbol. Smile at someone: Buckets fill. Scowl? Buckets empty. Students learn everybody has a bucket, regardless of age.

“Bucket filling is inviting someone to play when they are all alone,” Johana said.

“It’s being nice!” said second-grader Scarlett Shepard.

“It’s giving high fives and fist bumps,” added second-grader Angel Gomez.

Filling Buckets

VanKampen has conducted two lessons in each classroom on bucket filling and bucket dipping. The idea is based on the book, “How Full is Your Bucket?” by Tom Rath, which tells of a boy who begins to see how every interaction in a day either fills or empties his bucket. The children’s book is a spin-off of an adult version written by Rath and Donald Clifton. Both books emphasize that it hardly takes any time and it’s all free. “Everyone, no matter if you are 1 or 101, can fill buckets,” VanKampen said.

VanKampen passed out cards with behaviors written on them for students to categorize under “Bucket Fillers are people who…” and “Bucket Dippers are people who…” Each class received its own bucket with blue slips of paper that read, “I’m filling your bucket.” Students write positive feelings, comments or compliment to someone in their class. Teachers read out of the classroom bucket to reinforce the lesson.

“I wroted one to my BFF Eaden,” Scarlett said. “I wroted that you’re the bestest friend anyone can ask for.”

VanKampen also has an interactive bulletin board about bucket dipping outside her office. She hangs bucket-filling “tear-offs” around the school for kids to have for themselves or give to others.

Third-grade teacher Bethany Kamps took the program a step further and hung buckets for each child on her classroom wall.

“I wanted to add it into the classroom because I feel like the whole culture and environment of the class really affects how they learn,” Kamps said. “When kids are treating each other positively and getting along, it makes it easier to get learning done.”

VanKampen and East Kelloggsville counselor Hillary DeRidder are hosting a parent night in May to introduce, educate and model the bucket story with the hope that it will be extended to students’ homes.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

5th Annual GRJazzFest announces line-up April 27

April 18, 20163-bottom, Beer, Entertainment, Food, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local Food, Non-Profits, Upcoming EventsBeer, DTE energy foundation, entertainment, family-friendly, Festival, food, free, GRandJazzFest, Music, rosa parks circleJoanne

By GRandJazzFest

Summer’s still quite a way off, but it’s never too early to get excited about good jazz!

GRandJazzFest presented by DTE Energy Foundation returns to Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids, Mich., this Aug. 20 and 21, for the fifth annual festival. The popular family-friendly festival, which attracted more than 10,000 people last year, is West Michigan’s only free, weekend-long jazz festival. The two-day festival will again be free because of Presenting Sponsor DTE Energy Foundation, the City of Grand Rapids and other sponsoring organizations and individuals.

Edye-Evans-Hyde — Edye Evans Hyde performed last year

“Grand Rapids and West Michigan have embraced GRandJazzFest,” founder Audrey Sundstrom said. “We’re proud to say GRandJazzFest is one of the most diverse, community-oriented festivals for people who live here, who travel here, and who want to enjoy two days of great live music in a vibrant downtown setting. THIS is what community is all about.”

Each year, GRandJazzFest has been held at Rosa Parks Circle in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids to enable festival-goers to take in all that downtown has to offer: restaurants, clubs, museums, microbreweries and shops. The festival typically occurs during Restaurant Week in Grand Rapids. The festival’s location provides easy access to those who ride the bus, walk or bike, and is also close to parking.

The 2016 festival lineup will be announced on April 27 at the House of Entertainment and Music (H.O.M.E.) at The B.O.B. That night at H.O.M.E., the band Evidence led by saxophonist Michael Doyle takes the stage. Evidence performed at the 2014 GRandJazzFest.

Like last year’s reveal, festival organizers will coordinate with leaders at International Jazz Day to include GRandJazzFest’s reveal announcement as a sanctioned International Jazz Day event.

At the 2016 festival in August, 11 diverse jazz artists and bands will perform, including a student jazz band and two major headline acts.

Walt-Gutowski1 — Walt Gutowski performed last year

Free face painting by Fancy Faces will be available for kids and, if lines aren’t too long, for “kids at heart.”

GR and Jazz (the non-profit, all-volunteer-run producer of GRandJazzFest) is pleased to announce a special collaboration with the Grand Rapids Art Museum: Under an agreement with GRAM, the festival’s VIP area will be located on the GRAM front terrace where refreshments and snacks will be provided. The VIP area is for sponsors of GRandJazzFest. Additionally, GRAM will have an outdoor bar area set up at the base of its front steps adjoining Rosa Parks Circle for attendees who would like to purchase and consume refreshments and enjoy the festival.

Grand Rapids city commissioners approved GRandJazzFest as one of 24 events that it will co-sponsor in 2016, a distinction only given to events that have proven to be successful and enrich the community. GRandJazzFest 2015 received distinction as a Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. Signature Event along with two other festivals, ArtPrize and LaughFest.

In addition to DTE Energy Foundation, the City of Grand Rapids, and GRAM, sponsors for the 2016 event to date include GR and Jazz, IntentPR, Gilmore Collection, Comcast, Hilger Hammond, Amway Hotel Corporation, Experience Grand Rapids, ICON Sign, Meijer, Moxie Men Incorporated, Hungerford Nichols, WGVU, Steelcase and Clark Hill. Sponsorship opportunities are here.

Grupo-Aye — Grupo Aye performed last year

“We are so grateful to all of our sponsors for their support – we could not do it without them,” Sundstrom said. “We’re seeking additional sponsors to help us bring a full weekend of FREE, family-friendly live jazz performances to West Michigan!”

Get a taste of past GRandJazzFests by viewing the “recap” videos here.

More information on the 5^th annual GRandJazzFest presented by DTE Energy Foundation can be found here and at the festival’s Facebook and Twitter sites.

‘Kids Simmer Camp’ stirs up kids’ imaginations and cooking skills

April 14, 20163-bottom, Education, Entertainment, Food, How-To's, Kids Activities, Upcoming Eventsclasses, culinary, Downtown Market, experience, food, ingredients, kids simmer camp, making mealsJoanne

By Downtown Market

Kids Simmer Camp, for ages 6-11, is a great way to get your kids excited about preparing meals. Fun and educational, these three-day camps explore adventurous weekly themes. From discoveries in the Greenhouse to hands-on cooking in the Teaching Kitchen, “Simmer” Camp cultivates growth and bakes up excitement. Each activity and recipe will pair with the inspiring weekly theme and stimulate inventive imagination and creativity.

Everything needed for class is provided: ingredients, the aprons, and the fun! If you shop prior to class and need to put any perishable food purchases in the cooler, please let the sous chef know on your way into class.

If your child has an allergy, simply indicate during the registration process if there are any dietary restrictions that our chef should be aware of. We will make the appropriate accommodations to ensure an excellent culinary experience.

Please include ages on registration so our chef can prepare ahead for all ages.

These classes fill quickly.

______________________________________________________

Week 1: Baking 101-Oven Science
June 28, 29, and 30, 10a-2p • $125

From savory to sweet, to sneaking in a few secret ingredients, kids will learn the science behind baking, and how to incorporate greenhouse fresh ingredients into their baked goods.

This week’s kids’ creations include:

Buttermilk biscuits, homemade baked chicken tenders, nutty chocolate chip quinoa cupcakes, mini seasonal fruit tarts, savory supper pie, black bean brownies, pizza with vegetable pizza sauce, and monkey bread.
REGISTER HERE

Week 2: Roadtrip USA
July 12, 13, and 14, 10a-2p • $125

From the Southwest, to Creole country, to New England, and back, kids will take a culinary road trip throughout the US!

This week’s kids’ creations include:

Mexican enchiladas, southwestern slaw, Tex-Mex style chocolate pudding, hopping John rice and beans, pimento cheese spread, lemon parfaits, New England crab cakes, rhubarb tea, and hasty pudding.

Kids will also learn about water resources, plant adaptation, rice farming, food preservation, and other important agricultural facts from around the country.
REGISTER HERE

Week 3: SOLD OUT!

Week 4: Movie Meal Mayhem
July 26, 27, and 28, 10a-2p • $125

Ever wondered how to make a real Ratatouille or what would happen if Minecraft food was served at your dinner table? What would happen if food took over Grand Rapids like it does in Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs? Join us as we explore the food, farming, and environment related to these popular movies.

This week’s kids’ creations include:

Sausage meatballs, giant pancakes, peach sauce, fresh fruit juice, pixelated fruits and veggies with homemade sauces and dips, vegetable ratatouille, French chocolate mousse, and homemade bread sticks.
REGISTER HERE

Week 5: Modern City Homesteading
July 19, 20, and 21, 10a-2p • $125

Kids will learn the ten basic concepts of urban homesteading and align them with practical skills, such as growing potted plants, making sauces from scratch, designing your own reusable snack sack, and using dry ice to create a fun dessert. Kids will also learn about rain barrels and worm bins (vermiculture) and how they add value to any urban yard.

This week’s kids’ creations include:

Cucumber salad, black bean quesadillas, banana pudding vegetable pancakes with homemade ketchup, carrot slaw, ice cream, deviled eggs, seasonal veggie soup and homemade soft pretzels with honey mustard dip.
REGISTER HERE

______________________________________________________
Questions? Email classes@downtownmarketgr.com or call 616.805.5308 ext 217.

Code Red: A Robotics Takeover by Area Students

April 13, 20163-bottom, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Upcoming EventsCode Red Robotics, FIRST Robotics, Ken Orzechowski, Mike DeWittJoanne

By Mike DeWitt

Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

The outside fortifications of the castle have taken serious damage as the opposing forces lick their chops readying for a takeover. Three valiant knights, bonded by an alliance, are all the castle has left. They band together and strike back, strategically battering the opposing stronghold with a flawlessly executed counterattack that places victory within reach.

Now all that’s left is to bring down the tower, and time is running out.

It’s a battle scene playing out straight from a movie. However, these knights aren’t people, they’re robots, and they’re built and operated by high school students on a quest for a state championship at the DeltaPlex from April 14-16..

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in Michigan is an organization and robotics competition that gives students an opportunity to build their own robots and compete against other teams. It’s a way for students to discover how rewarding a career in engineering or technology can be.

Code Red Robotics, a local program based in Kentwood, recently qualified for the Michigan FIRST Robotics State Championship that will be held this weekend at the DeltaPlex Arena. Code Red enters the competition with the highest district score in West Michigan, highest scoring regular season match in the country, and as a winner of the Chairman’s Award, the top award in FIRST.

The competition theme for this year is “FIRST Stronghold” and creates alliances of three robots on a quest to breach their opponents’ fortifications, weaken the opponents’ tower with foam boulders, and ultimately capture the tower. Students were given six weeks to create a robot from scratch that could best handle all the obstacles. In all, the outermost line of fortification had more than 18,000 possible field configurations.

“Robotics is a great opportunity for the kids to learn teamwork. It truly is a team sport,” said Code Red director Ken Orzechowski.

Code Red Robotics started in 2008 and hasn’t looked back. Since the team started competing in 2009, Code Red has qualified for the state championship every year but one and has qualified for the world championship twice.

While most robotics teams are affiliated with a school, Code Red Robotics runs separately and relies on students from surrounding area schools to bolster the team. It’s the most challenging obstacle for the program.

“We have to constantly reach out to kids to join,” said Orzechowski. “It’s difficult, but having a team represented by 10 different schools only adds to our team dynamic. Plus, once they get in, they don’t leave. It’s too much fun!”

The schools represented at Code Red include Byron Center, Caledonia, Calvin Christian, Forest Hills Central, Grandville, Kenowa Hills, NorthPointe Christian, South Christian, Well Spring Academy, and home schools. On top of bringing kids in from other schools to learn robotics and be a part of a team, Code Red has been active in starting up robotics programs across the area.

In order to get a new program off of the ground, Code Red meets with school and community leaders, recruits mentors to help the students, and aids in finding sponsors and developing business plans. Their efforts have succeeded in getting six programs off the ground and rebooting another: the Forest Hills Comets, East Kentwood Red Storm, the Altobots, West Mi Aviation Spitfires, Harper Creek Robo Beavers, and the Petoskey Paladins. Code Red was also instrumental in finding mentors and sponsors to revive the Wyoming Demons after they folded in 2012. The Demons also qualified for the state championship this year.

“Starting some of these programs has cut into our own pool of kids, but that’s okay. It’s all about spreading the positives that come with FIRST,” said Orzechowski.

Orzechowski touched on those positives that spread well beyond the technical skills learned.

“It forces kids to articulate what they know and share ideas. We have a lot of smart kids; at one point we had five valedictorians, but they don’t always know how to share their ideas. If you can’t articulate your idea, it’s as bad as not knowing it. The teamwork that is required for FIRST helps build those skills.”

Code Red Robotics will compete in the state championship at the DeltaPlex, April 14-16. For further information on the competition, visit FIRST in Michigan. For more information on Code Red Robotics, visit their website.

Actress Julianne Moore’s storybook character comes to life on Civic’s stage

April 11, 20163-bottom, Entertainment, Kids ActivitiesFreckleface Strawberry, Grand Rapids Civic, Grand Rapids Civic Theater, Julianne MooreJoanne

Byron Center's Abbie Westers plays Freckleface Strawberry in Grand Rapids Civic Theatre's upcoming production "Freckleface Strawberry the Musical," running April 22 - May 1. — Byron Center’s Abbie Westers plays Freckleface Strawberry in Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s upcoming production “Freckleface Strawberry the Musical,” running April 22 – May 1.

Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

When Allyson Paris got hired as the new Grand Rapids Civc Theatre associate director, she learned right away about the spring children’s production Freckleface Strawberry the Musical and immediately went out and purchased all the books in the series.

“I was familiar with the first one but quickly went out and got my hands on all the ones I could find,” said Paris who directs the upcoming show which runs April 22 – May 1.

Freckleface Strawberry the Musical is based on the New York Times best-selling children’s book written by actress Julianne Moore. Moore – whose nickname when a child was Freckleface Strawberry – has stated that the story is based on her childhood memories and those stories have resonated well with both young and old as the original book has now grown into a book series with two apps and the musical. Paris did not know about the apps.

“Oh my gosh, I’ve been schooled,” she said with a laugh. “I’ll have to tell the cast about them. More research.”

Freckleface Strawberry (played by Byron Center’s Abbie Westers who was in Civc’s production of Mary Poppins and Junie B. Jones) is just like every other girl, except she has bright red hair and, according to her, something far worse, freckles. She will do anything to get rid of her freckles until her schoolmates help her learn a valuable lesson: everyone is different and that’s what makes everyone special.

“I feel the message of valuing what makes us different and celebrating ourselves is great for kids,” Paris said, quickly adding “and adults.”

Paris said Freckleface is part of the new generation of musicals. “It’s a smart, funny, musical,” she said. “It is upbeat, modern and really refreshing.

“It also has a broad range. Should you bring your five-year-old, absolutely. Should you bring your 15-year-old, of course.”

And despite it being about a 6-year-old girl, who by the way is kind of tomboyish, Paris can attest that the story is relatable to both boys and girls as her main reading partner with all those books she purchased was her six-year-old son “and he loves the Freckleface books.”

Freckleface Strawberry is a children’s musical appropriate for children ages four and older. The production is an hour long, which Paris noted is great for a first-time theater experience. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, 30 N. Division Ave. It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled performance. Tickets are $10 – $16. For more information, visit grct.org or call the theater’s box office at 616-222-6650.

The animals invade Chaffee Planetarium in new show

March 25, 20163-bottom, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local EntertainmentDark Side, Pink Floyd, planetarium, Robot Zoo, safariJoanne

Returning with new xxx is "Dark Side of the Moon: the Light Show, featuring the music of Pink Floyd. — Returning with new production is “Dark Side: The Light Show,” featuring the music of Pink Floyd.

Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

One new, original planetarium show along with a returning favorite were recently added to the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Chaffee Planetarium scheduled.

Starlight Safari, a state-of-the-art globetrotting planetarium adventure, is an interactive trip across the continents to see and learn about various animal constellations.

Visitors join a live presenter in the Chaffee Planetarium to begin their adventures. This 40-minute show includes interactive questions that test the audience’s knowledge of animal and mythical constellations, as well as teaching about lesser known animals in the sky. Beginning near Grand Rapids, attendees will learn about what is in our night sky. From there, venture to remote areas in Africa, Australia, South America and Asia to see Pisces, Leo, Draco the Dragon and many more.

The program, which will run through Sept. 18, is a fun, entertaining, and educational experience suited all ages, especially families with children. Tickets are $4 each with general admission to the Museum, $5 each for planetarium only tickets and free to Museum members. For more information and show times, visit grpm.org/Planetarium.

Starlight Safari is an original production by the Chaffee Planetarium inspired by the Museum’s 2016 traveling exhibitions, The Robot Zoo and National Geographic’s Earth Explorers, which is set to open in May.

The popular Dark Side: The Light Show, featuring music from Pink Floyd’s album “The Dark Side of the Moon,” also returns tot he planetarium.

Visitors will experience this iconic album “The Dark Side of the Moon” as never before, featuring stunning 4k visuals, brilliant LED sequences and incredibly clear 5.1 surround sound. Dark Side: The Light Show was the GRPM’s first original production since the planetarium underwent major renovations in 2013/2014.

This most recent production of this show was developed by members of the original crew that worked on previous laser light shows at the GRPM in the 1990s and 2000s. Members of the volunteer planetarium production team include: Jacob Bourjaily, Matt Bourjaily, Ethan Brown, Dave Staskiewicz, Chad Kremer, Dave DeBruyn, John Foerch and Daniel Tell.

Each song from this album is played in this show with its own unique thematic visuals. Following the course of the album, the visuals increase in complexity each song, taking the audience on an unforgettable rock and roll journey.

Dark Side: The Light Show will play Tuesdays at 8 p.m., Fridays at 9 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m through June 19. Tickets are $4 each with general admission to the Museum, $5 each for planetarium only tickets and free to Museum members. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit grpm.org.

Dark Side: The Light Show contains adult language and dizzying visual effects. It is not recommended for individuals prone to motion sickness, seizures or light sensitivity.

Easter Egg hunts, events offer weekend fun for families

March 24, 20163-bottom, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, RecreationBunny, Easter, Easter Egg Hunt, Kentwood, WyomingJoanne

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

Here comes Peter Cottontail and he’ll be making several appearances in and around Kentwood and Wyoming this weekend and next as Easter marches in.

One of his favorite stops is the Kentwood Activities Center for the annual “Breakfast with the Bunny” Saturday, March 26.

A pancake breakfast will be served from 9 – 11 a.m. at the center, located at 355 48th St. SE. Pictures with the famous Easter Bunny will be from 10 – 11 a.m. There will be other activities including face painting.

Tickets for the event are $5 in advance and $7 at the door. Contact the Kentwood Parks and Recreation for more information. Click here.

Another popular Easter Egg Hunt is the one that takes place in Byron Township. This year’s event starts at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 26, and is for children ages 2-10. The Byron Easter Egg Hunt takes place at Whistlestop Park, 2170 76th St. SW, Byron Center. For more information, click here.

Also in Kentwood, East Paris Christian Reformed Church will host an Easter Egg Hunt from 2 – 3 p.m. Saturday, March 26, There will be a puppet show on the true meaning of Easter followed by the egg hunt. East Paris Christian Reformed Church is located at 3065 East Paris Ave. SE.

On March 27, the Wyoming, Relevant Church will be hosting its 2016 Easter Experience and Carnival from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The event includes an Easter service followed by the carnival. The event takes place at the Wyoming Junior High School, 2125 Wrenwood St. SW. Registration is required for this event. Click here.

There are a number of other Easter Hunts and activities in and around the Kentwood and Wyoming areas. Below are a few more that are either located either close to the area or have an unusual theme. Whatever one you choose, make sure to bring your own basket and double check for weather and changes in the schedule.

March 26

Grandville’s Ivanrest Church will be hosting its annual Easter Egg Hunt on the church’s front lawn from 10 – 11 a.m. The event is for children 10 and under. Ivanrest Church is located at 3777 Ivanrest SW, Granville.

Jenison’s Rosewood Church will host an Easter Egg Hunt from 10 a.m. – noon. There will be three separate areas for ages 1-3, 4-6, and 7-10. The Easter Bunny is scheduled to make an appearance along with coloring activities, balloons, face painting and a drawing for prizes. Donuts and coffee will kick off the event at 10 a.m. with the hunt starting at 10:30 a.m. Rosewood Church is located at 2795 Rosewood Ave., Jenison.

Hudsonville’s Hillcrest Christian Reformed Church will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt from 10 – noon. The free event is open to kids of all ages and includes family time with balloon animals, face painting, prizes, popcorn, candy, snacks and videos. Hillcrest CRC is located at 3617 Hillcrest Road, Hudsonville.

The Gymco at 2306 Camelot Ridge Court will be hosting an afternoon Bunny Hop that includes egg hung, snacks, open gym, crafts, face painting, stories, songs and more. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult. Children 6 and older can be dropped off. Cost is $12 per child or $25 per family.

The popular Bunny Train is currently running from Coopersville & Marne Railway, located at 311 E. Danforth St., Coopersville. The Easter Bunny and her cast of wacky, musical characters perform in each of the antique passenger coaches. Departures are 11 a.m., 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Saturdays, March 19 and 26 and 1 and 3 p.m. Sundays, March 13 and 20. Tickets are $17 for adults, $16 for seniors 60 and older, $15 for children ages 2-12 and free for children under 2. Call 616-997-7000, ext. 3 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday – Friday.

For an unusual Easter Egg Hunt adventure, checkout the Holland Community Aquatic Center which will host its Underwater Egg hunt from 1 to 5 p.m. The Holland Community Aquatic Center is located at 550 Maple Ave., Holland.

Robot animals make a ‘zoo’ out of the Grand Rapids Public Museum

March 18, 20163-bottom, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Eventsgiraffe, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Kate Moore, Robot ZooJoanne

[huge_it_slider id=”32″]

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

Ever wonder why a giraffe does not pass out when it lifts its head up and down? Curious how a giant squid breathes?

These and other animal questions are explored in the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s newest exhibit “The Robot Zoo,” opening this weekend.

“There has been a lot of comments and interest on social media about the show,” said Kate Moore, the museum’s vice president of marketing and public relations, who added that the 1,700 tickets for the grand opening event on Saturday, March 19, are sold out.

“Part of the appeal comes from the fact that it is a little more hands on then our last exhibit [‘The Discovery of King Tut’] and it is a shift from the historic subject matter to more a science focus.”

Moore added that the staff purposely works to vary the different exhibitions at the Museum so as to attract different audiences. While the Museum’s last exhibits, “Tut” and “American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition,” were for more of an older crowd, “The Robot Zoo” is geared more toward kindergarten through eighth grade. The Museum has developed a pre-kindergarten curriculum to go with the exhibit as well.

“The Robot Zoo,” which is based on a book of the same name that is now out-of-print, exhibits machinery in the robot animals that simulate the body parts of the machine’s real-life counterparts. Muscles become pistons, intestines become filtering pipes and the brain becomes a computer. For example, in the giraffe, a cooper pipe outlines the main vein in the giraffe’s neck with several gages showing where the vents are located. These vents are what help control the giraffe’s blood flow so the animal does not pass out from too much or too little blood flowing to its head.

Because of the design of this exhibit, it has an appeal to those interested in biology as well as those interested in technology and engineering, Moore said.

Eight robot animals and more than a dozen hands-on activities illustrate real-life characteristics, such as how a chameleon changes colors, a giant squid propels itself and a fly walks on the ceiling.

Popular among the staff is the chameleon, which rocks back and forth as it turns its head, looks around and fires its tongue at its insect pray. “It also has three interactive elements,” Moore said. Those include being able to see what happens when the chameleon is angry, scared, and looking to attract a mate.

Other larger-than-life-size animated robots, besides the chameleon and the giraffe, are a rhinoceros, a giant squid with 18-foot tentacles, and a platypus. Joining the animals are a house fly with a 10-foot wingspread, a grasshopper and the monster-of-the-night bug eater, the bat.

Admission to the exhibit is free for Museum members and for non-members, $11 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $6 for children with the price including general admission to the entire Museum. Staff does recommend purchasing tickets early since lines can get long on Saturdays and during Spring Break. A membership is $65 for a family and includes parking and planetarium shows, which staff said a new planetarium show for “The Robot Zoo” will be opening soon.

Several activities are planned around the exhibit including special Spring Break programs and a summer camp dedicated to robotics. Also, in May, the museum will be opening the National Geographic exhibit “Earth Explorers,” which Moore said has a connection to the “The Robot Zoo” since it looks at animals living in various environments around the globe.

“The Robot Zoo” will be open through Sept. 18. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at 272 Pearl St. NW. For more on programs and upcoming exhibits, click here.

Evening of Science, Slime and Snacks

March 17, 20163-bottom, Area Education, Education, Kids ActivitiesErin Albanese, Kelloggsville, Kelloggsville Middle School, Rocket Family Night, School News NetworkJoanne

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

Colorful slime gelled and circuits connected recently during Rocket Family Night at Kelloggsville Middle School.

Five classrooms were set up with hands-on science experiments for students of all ages to experience. Each allowed youngsters to create something to bring home, such as paper airplanes and slime. Rocket Family Night is a district initiative to offer the community a free meal and an evening tied to academics.

“We want parents to get into the buildings and the district. We also want our students to know how fun some of the subjects can be if you give them a chance,” said Middle School Principal Jim Alston.

Along with going through lots of science supplies, staff served more than 250 plates of food.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Young Entrepreneurs Create Learning Marketplace

March 15, 20163-bottom, Area Education, Education, Kids ActivitiesEntrepreneurs, Erin Albanese, Godwin Heights, School News Network, T21 Marketplace, Team 21, West Godwin ElementaryJoanne

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

West Godwin Elementary first- through fourth-grade students spent an evening working as mini-entrepreneurs at the T21 Marketplace, selling candy and other goodies, masks and chances to shoot hoops and bowl.

The event, hosted by the after-school program Team 21, introduced students to real-life concepts of buying and selling goods or services, said Betsy Berry, West Godwin Team 21 coordinator. While Berry purchased materials, students cooked, created their products, advertised and cashed out at the end of the evening. Each good or service cost one Berry Buck, fake money students had earned for good behavior.

“The purpose of learning about being a consumer as well as a producer was beyond achieved,” Berry said.

Connect

Team 21

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

A boy and his book: Michigan author William Anderson shares his love for Laura Ingalls Wilder

March 11, 20163-bottom, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Upcoming EventsLaura Ingalls Wilder, Little House on the Prairie, Schuler Books, William AndersonJoanne

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Like many students, William Anderson first was exposed to the stories of Laura Ingalls Wilder through school.

“For me, like many American kids, it started in elementary school,” said Anderson who will be discussing his latest book “The Select Letters of Laura Ingalls Wilder” at Schuler Books & Music March 15. “In those schools, especially the upper elementaries, it wasn’t uncommon for a teacher to read a book to the class. Wilder’s books were popular because she offered a very good window into frontier life.”

Born Feb. 7, 1867, as Laura Ingalls – she later married Almanzo Wilder – Wilder is known as the author of the classic “Little House on the Prairie” series which are based on her childhood memories as a settler family from 1932 to 1943. In the 1970s, a televisions series “Little House on the Prairie,” was loosely based on the books starring Melissa Gilbert as Laura Ingalls and Michael Landon as her father, Charles Ingalls.

With a shift of school goals over the years, the practice of teachers reading to their classes has somewhat disappeared, but the books have remained popular having never gone out of print since first being released in 1932. There have been numerous authors, including Anderson, who have written on Wilder’s life and times. Anderson has done a travel book on Wilder’s homes as well as picture books on her life. Earlier this year, it was announced that a “Little House on the Prairie” movie was being discussed.

“She certainly has staying power,” Anderson said. “It is a topic that people like and enjoy.”

Wilder was, and still remains an American icon, with communities naming facilities after her and in fact the first to do so was Detroit. The Detroit Public Library Wilder Branch, which was dedicated in 1949, still exists today.

In fact, in his new book “The Selected Letters,” Anderson said he selected many letters that had strong Michigan ties. Some came from the cities of Kalamazoo, East Jordan, and Mt. Pleasant. Michigan schools were one of the school systems that had adopted Wilder’s books and used them heavily in its curriculum, Anderson said.

“Wilder often credited the librarians for the popularity of her books,” Anderson said. “When the books were released in the thirties and forties, they were immediately adopted by teachers and librarians.”

Wilder also was dedicated to responding to every letter she received which means there is a lot of correspondence from Wilder – much of it is housed at the Hoover Public Library – available to pull from. “There are still letters being found,” Anderson said, adding that this is happening as people clean out old family homes.

While it might seem like a Herculean task to decide which of the 500 to 600 letters to include in a book, Anderson said he spent his time focused on what would tell the story of Wilder.

The book, “The Selected Letters,” is Anderson’s swan song, said the author, who has written about Mark Twain, Mt. Rushmore and the VonTrapp family and is currently working on other projects. He said while the author helped launch his career into writing about unique American icons, he feels he has pretty much covered the gamut of Wilder’s life and travels.

“It’s time to let other people find different spins on her story and life, if there are any left,” Anderson said.

Anderson is set to present his book “The Selected Letters of Laura Ingalls Wilder” March 15 at 7 p.m. at Schuler Books & Music, 2660 28th St. SE. For more information, visit www.SchulerBooks.com or call 616-942-2561.

WKTV to rebroadcast Girl Scout program in honor of organization’s 104th birthday

March 9, 2016Kids Activities, WKTV ProjectsGirl Scouts, Media Experience, WKTV, Women's History MonthJoanne

Girls Scouts from the Byron Center area ride on the float in the Byron Center Christmas parade.

Girl Scouts all over the world are marking the organization’s 104th anniversary with Girl Scout week, running through March 12.

To help celebrate this special occasion, WKTV will be rebroadcasting its Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore Media Experience program March 9 at 4 p.m.

The program, a collaboration between the local council, Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore, and WKTV, was designed to give area Girl Scouts a taste of what it was like to produce a television show. The girls operated cameras, used the video switcher, monitored audio, and loaded graphics to produce the interviews featuring many of the crew members.

Girl Scouts, interviewed by local media experts, discussed their Girl Scout experiences from earning awards to their favorite memories about Girl Scouting.

March 12 marks the official birthday of Girl Scouts. This is the date that commemorates the day in 1912 when Juliette Gordon Low officially registered the organization’s first 18 girl members in Savannah, Georgia. Today, the organization boosts of 2.7 million Girl Scouts – 1.9 million girl members and 800,000 adult members – in about 92 countries, according to Girl Scouts of the U.S.A., which was officially chartered by the U.S. Congress on March 16, 1950.

And this being Women’s History Month, it should be noted that it is estimated that more than 59 million women in America today have participated in Girl Scouts during their childhood.

To learn more about Girl Scouts, including how to get involved, visit the Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore website. For more on WKTV programs, visit wktv.org.

Microscopes, water rovers and more: science fun at the Grand Rapids Public Museum

March 1, 2016Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Eventsengineering, Grand Rapids Public Museum, kids, neil degrasse tyson, science, STEMJoanne

Students learn through exploring at the Grand Rapids Public Museum's Science Tuesdays. — Students learn through exploring at the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Science Tuesdays.

Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

As astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson makes his way to Grand Rapids this month, the Grand Rapids Public Museum sets the mood with a number of family activities in March all centered around science.

This week, the GRPM hosts its annual celebration of engineering week with school groups participating in an integrative Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics experience featuring activities from science and engineering. The week culminates in a public day Saturday, March 5.

“Basically all the stations that the school groups go through during the week are available for the public on that Saturday,” said the museum’s Marketing Manager Christie Bender.

Saturday’s programming focuses on STEM applications to create real world solutions to human problems and needs. Stations include creating underwater submersibles, design bridges, exams biomedical devices, manipulate robots, experiment with water systems and create concrete cookies using household ingredients.

“There are also special audience interactive events on the fifth where they can help drive an underwater rover that is in Florida waters from the Museum’s Theater,” Bender said. Underwater researcher and scientist Chris Olstad,and Grand Valley State University Professor Mark Gleason will be hosting live presentations at 10:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. from thirty feet below the water’s surface in Florida waters.

The GRPM also will be continuing its new, ongoing program Science Tuesdays, focusing on Zoology for the month of March. Stations will include hands-on activities, microscopes, animal x-rays, honey bee information and live animals every week. Today and March 8, animals from the John Ball Zoo will be at the GRPM from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Blandford Nature Center will bring in animals on March 15 and 22 from noon to 1 p.m. and 2 to 3 p.m. Dr. Rebecca Vincent will have animals from noon to 4 p.m. March 29 and she is also scheduled to be the guest speaker at 6 p.m. that day. Vincent will discuss wildlife rehabilitation. Presentations are free with general admission.

Also this month, the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association with the GRPM will be hosting the Winter Star Party March 11 and 12 at the Cascade Recreation Park, 3810 Thornapple River Dr. SE. The program is from 7:30 – 9 p.m. both days.

GRAAA members will have telescopes set up to allow public viewing of the crescent moon, Jupiter and various other sky features visible only during winter and early spring. During warm weather season, these features are below the horizon making them unable to be seen. Those attending this event are encouraged to dress for cold weather and to bring flashlights, binoculars and telescopes if available.

This event is weather dependent and will only take place if the sky is clear. Status updates will be posted on the GRAAA website, graaa.org.

For more information on these events, upcoming exhibitions or other activities at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, visit grpm.org. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at 272 Pearl St. SW.

Neil deGrasse Tyson comes of Grand Rapids March 21. He will be at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. SW.

Butterflies and crocodiles unveiled at the Frederik Meijer Gardens

February 25, 2016Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Eventsbutterflies, Butterflies are Blooming, Frederik Meijer Gardens, Mimmo Paladino, SpringJoanne

Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

For Laurel Scholten her favorite part of seeing the butterflies is watching them emerge from their chrysalis.

“If it goes just perfectly, they will slide right out and then there they are,” said Scholten, who this year is overseeing the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies are Blooming exhibition, which officially opens March 1.

In its 21st year, the exhibition will feature about 60 different species flying freely in the Gardens’ Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. The balmy environment, which is 85 degrees and 70 percent humidity, is a perfect setting for the butterflies, according to Scholten.

“They tend to emerge more in the morning and especially when it is bright and sunny,” Scholten said. “This is because it signals to them that they are going to have better conditions to survive in.”

Approximately 7,000 – 8,000 butterflies will be released in the conservatory during the two-month exhibit with anywhere from 500 to 800 in the conservatory on any given day. The life cycle of a butterfly is about two to three weeks.

The Butterflies are Blooming remains one of the Gardens largest exhibitions with more than 150,000 visitors expected to come through, said the Gardens Public Relations Manager Andrea Wolschleger

“I think it is because of the timing,” Wolschleger said. “It’s a warm, sunny exhibition, a good reason to escape the cold and it signals spring.

“Also, I think it appeals to just about anyone. Whether you are 5-years-old or 55-years-old, you can appreciate it.”

A "Crocodile" by Mimmo Paladino is on display in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. — A “Crocodile” by Mimmo Paladino is on display in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory.

New this year is the addition of more than 900 nectar plants that will add vivid blooms along with providing nectar for the butterflies. Also make sure to explore the conservatory for two crocodiles sculptures that have “wandered” over from the “Mimmo Paladino: Present Into Past” exhibition that opens Friday, Feb. 26, in the Gardens’ gallery space. The exhibition will feature iconic sculptures from across the artist’s repertoire and new, never before seen work.

“The butterflies really educate people on a variety of topics,” Scholten said, such as pollution since butterflies are the first to be impacted by pollutes. The exhibit also showcases the life span of the butterflies emerge from chrysalides and cocoons in the Butterfly Bungalow, spread their wings for the first time, and are released into the conservatory. Also there is a Caterpillar Room located within The Seasonal Display Greenhouse featuring Monarch caterpillars.

“In fact, one of the number one questions I have is when are the butterflies going to be released,” Scholten said, adding that a sign will be on the Butterfly Bungalow with release times.

A butterfly spreads its wings in Butterfly Bungalow.

The Gardens also hosts a number of family events in conjunction with the exhibit. Various Children’s Activities take place daily during daylight hours in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden, Tuesday Night Lights allow visitors to bring flashlights until 9 p.m to see the nightlife in the conservatory, and “Who am I” A Butterfly Ballet, presented by the Grand Rapids Ballet, is March 12 and 19 at 12:30 p.m. Tickets for the ballet are $5/members, $8/non-members, and free/children 2 and under.

Butterflies are Blooming will be up through April 31. The “Mimmo Paladino: Present Into Past” runs through Aug. 14. For more information on either exhibit or on the Meijer Gardens, visit the Gardens’ website or call 616-957-1580.

Calvin Christian tells a tale as old as time, ‘Disney’s Beauty and the Beast’

February 24, 2016Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our CitiesBeauty and the Beast, Belle, Bethany Morse, Calvin Christian, Disney, Scott VandenbergJoanne

Calvin Christian High School would like you to be their guest as the high school’s Dramatic Society presents “Disney’s Beauty & the Beast” this weekend.

The production is set for Feb. 25 – 27 at Godwin Heights High School, 50 35th St. SW, Wyoming. Show times are 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 5 p.m. Saturday.

The musical is from Disney’s animated 1991 film based on the French fairytale. A selfish prince is turned into a beast by a beautiful enchantress and his servants become common household items. The spell can only be broken by a maiden who can love the Beast beyond his apperance. Meanwhile, in a village not too far away, Belle is an odd duck but the most beautiful girl in her village. Gaston, the man everyone wants to be, has plans to marry her. But before Gaston can get Belle to say yes, she runs off to save her father from the Beast. Belle and the Beast are destine to meet, but will Belle be able to love the Beast and break the spell?

“This is a show that I have been interested in producing for awhile,” said Marilee Marsman, who is directing with Karel Malefyt as the musical director. And is it any wonder why? Besides the entertaining characters that include Cogsworth (the clock), Lumiere (the candlestick) and Mrs. Potts (the teapot), the musical is full of familiar songs including “Be Our Guest,” “Something There,” and the title track sung by Angela Lansbury in the original film, “Beauty and the Beast.”

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre announces its upcoming season will include “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.”

Standing: Ashley Bylsma as Ward, Jared Ebels as Lumiere, Stephenie Griffin as Babs, Lucas Potter as Cogsworth and sitting, Katie Tanja as Chip and Lauren Gibbered as Mrs. Potts — Standing: Ashley Bylsma as Wardrode, Jared Ebels as Lumiere, Stephenie Griffin as Babs, Lucas Potter as Cogsworth and sitting, Katie Tanja as Chip and Lauren Gibbered as Mrs. Potts

More than 70 Calvin Christian High School students are participating in the production which includes cast members, back stage crew and musicians. Performing as Belle is Bethany Morse and as Beast is Scott VandenBerg. Rounding out the cast are Gabe Lamer as Gaston, Lucas Potter as Cogsworth, Jared Ebels as Lumiere, Ashley Bylsma as the Wardrobe, Lindsay Elliott as Lefou, Stephenie Griffin as Babette, Lauren Gibbard as Mrs. Potts, Katie Tanja as Chip and Josh Watkins as Maurice.

“The group really becomes like a family,” Marsman said. “It is really awesome to see them grow together and encourage each other.”

Tickets for the show are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets are available at the Calvin Christian High School office, 3750 Ivanrest Ave. SW, or at the door. For more information, call 616-538-0990.

A Daughter’s Night to Shine: Wyoming and Kentwood Daddy-Daughter Dance in pictures

February 23, 2016Kids Activities, Our Cities, RecreationDaddy-Daughter Dance, Kentwood, Kentwood Parks and Recreation, Mike DeWitt, Wyoming, Wyoming Parks and RecreationJoanne

The Wyoming and Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department each hosted a Daddy-Daughter Dance this past Saturday, February 20. Below are some pictures from the magical evenings.

Wyoming

The Wyoming Daddy-Daughter Dance was a smashing hit with 171 participants and 12 volunteers making sure the event ran smoothly. While dancing was the staple of the event, crafts and games were also held in adjoining rooms.

[huge_it_slider id=”24″]

Kentwood

Those at the Kentwood Daddy Daughter-Dance had the opportunity to experience A Night In Hollywood by walking the red carpet and having their picture taken. 20 couples – 46 participants in all – got to bask in the movie star experience.

[huge_it_slider id=”28″]

The dances were a hit and a job well done by the Parks and Recreation Departments.

It’s time to get active with Wyoming’s first Health & Wellness Expo

February 23, 2016Community Health, Food, Health, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Senior Living, Upcoming Eventsexpo, health, Metro Health, Shape for Life, Wyoming Parks and Recreation, yogaJoanne

With spring just around the corner, a time when many people take advantage of the warmer weather and head outdoors, the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the first ever Wyoming Community Health & Wellness Expo Saturday, March 5.

“Spring is a great time to focus on health and wellness,” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, director of community services for the City of Wyoming. “This event was created to inspire the community to prioritize their well-being, and connect them to local resources.

The free event will run from 1 – 3 pm. at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW. About 20 different businesses, clubs and organizations from the Wyoming area will host tables and hand out samples, coupons, and other goodies. Fitness demonstrations, nutritious snacks, speakers, and health screenings will be some of the activities.

The Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department will be offering a sampling of its fitness programs such as yoga, Zumba and line dancing, said Valarie Mester, a recreation programmer for the department.

“We offer a number of programs through our offerings at the senior center and through our youth and family programs,” Mester said, adding this is a chance for people to try these programs and see what they are like.

Also on hand will be Shape for Life Studios, 1290 36th St. SW. Through its partnership with the recreation department, Shape for Life Studios offers spin classes and personal training. Mester said the studio representatives will be bringing in spin bikes for participants to try. Another recreation department partner is Metro Health, which will be providing health information.

Several other city departments will be at the expo such as the city’s water department, which will be covering the topic of clean water, and both the fire and police departments will be on hand to talk about related health and safety issues.

“It’s really about getting people more active, thinking about the food that they are eating and making sure they are visiting their physicians for regular check ups and screenings,” Mester said.

While a brand new event, Mester said organizers are expecting between 200 to 400 participants this year which is based on the number of current participants in the Parks and Recreation Department’s programs.

“The event is free and open to anyone, both residents and non-residents,” Mester said.

For more about the Wyoming Community Health and Wellness Expo or other programs offered by the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department, visit www.wyomingmi.gov or call 616-530-3164.

Pull up a chair as Grand Rapids Civic Theatre proudly presents its 2016 – 2017 season

February 22, 2016Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming EventsBeauty and the Beast, Bruce Tinker, Grand Rapids Civic, RagtimeJoanne

The cast of the current production of "Sister Act," rehearse. "Sister Act" runs through Feb. 26 - March 20. — The cast of Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s current production of “Sister Act,” rehearse. “Sister Act” runs through Feb. 26 – March 20.

Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

With a mixture of returning favorites and Grand Rapids Civic Theatre premieres, Civic Theatre offers a season focused on the theme of equality with its 2016 – 2017 lineup.

“We kind of go through the selection process, put together the season and a theme just comes from there,” said Civic Theatre Artistic Director Bruce Tinker.

This year’s lineup ranges from David Lindsay-Abaire’s 2011 Tony Award-winning play “Good People,” about the disparages in class and social economics to the powerful musical “Ragtime,” a look at the equality of justice under the law.

“It’s our 91st season and I really love all of the selections,” Tinker said. “There a lot of first-time productions along with some returning like ‘Ragtime,’ which is one of my favorite musicals. The music is just gorgeous.”

Tinker, who directed Civic’s 2004 production of “Ragtime,” said he looks forward to reacquainting himself with the musical that delves into the hopes, dreams and struggles of the immigrants settling in America in the early 20th Century. The show runs Feb. 24 – March 19.

The season starts with “Good People,” Sept. 9 – 25, a look at class, poverty, wealth and privilege as Lindsay-Abaire contrasts the life of a single mother living paycheck-to-paycheck against her ex-boyfriend who successfully gets out of the neighborhood and becomes a prominent doctor.

“This is an incredibly timely piece,” Tinker said. “Lindsay-Abaire doesn’t write about heroes or villains. He writes about people. No one is great or awful, they are just human trying to make the right choices for them and their family amidst high pressure stakes.”

Civic Theatre then goes big in November with its premiere production of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.” “It was one of those things we had to wait for the right timing,” Tinker said of the company having never staged a production before. “It’s a great show for celebrating the holidays.” “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast,” which also contains an underlying message of acceptance, runs Nov. 18 – Dec. 18.

Dedicated to featuring a classic in every season, the Civic Theatre’s reading committee discovered the company had never done the 1930s comedy “The Philadelphia Story,” which became a 1940s film starring Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant. This screwball love-triangle comedy, which became the fomula for many other romantic comedies, follows Tracy Lord as she prepares for her second marriage and the antics of her ex-husband who tries to remind her of love lost. The show runs Jan. 13 – 29.

Another classic Civic has never produced is “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” the story of starry-eyed Millie Dillmount of Salina, Kansas, who has come to New York City to make her dream come true. “This is one that we always have just had to have the right mix and this year it just happened,” Tinker said. “We looked at the spring and thought, we need something fun and this show is it. Plus with all the graduations going on [during June], this show is a celebration of new beginnings and independence. It really just fits.”

The two family productions, both based on books, are “Holes,” Oct. 21 – 30 and “Fancy Nancy,” April 21 – 30.

Even the 2017 summer children’s repertory productions contain the theme of equality as the lineup includes the popular fantasy “The Neverending Story,” July 29 – Aug. 6, and “Hairspray Jr.,” July 28 – Aug. 5. “With ‘Hairspray, Jr.,’ even though it is set in the sixties, it offers not only a message of equality, but is about accepting who you are, mind and heart, over what you look like.

“Be who you are as everyone loves who you are as oppose to a certain type of person.”

For information about the upcoming season or for ticket pricing, visit www.grct.org o call 616-222-6650.

Partial lineup for the Wyoming Concerts in the Parks released

February 17, 2016Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming EventsConcerts in the Park, Delilah DeWylde, Kari Lynch Band, Lamar Park, The Crane WivesJoanne

Kalamazoo's Big Boss Blues makes its first Concerts in the Park appearance this year. — Kalamazoo’s Big Boss Blues makes its first Concerts in the Park appearance this year.

After that brief encounter of chilly weather this past week, about everyone’s thoughts have turned to warmer weather. Well here’s something to warm you up: there is only 105 days before Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park returns to Lamar Park.

O.K., so it is a little more than three months, but to put together a 10-week concert series, the planning has to start almost when the last series ended. The Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission, which oversees the series, has been hard at work, lining up the performers for the 2016 Concerts in the Park and even have begun releasing a few teasers as to who is coming on the Wyoming Concerts in the Park Facebook page.

“We like to say that we are continuing the tradition of good entertainment at Lamar Park,” said Brandon Simmons, who is on the Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission. Simmons is referring to Lamar Park’s history of hosting the rodeo at Fort Wyoming which was located at Lamar Park. The site also was host to numerous concerts featuring Bob Hope, The Oakridge Boys, Crystal Gale, and Huey Lewis & the News.

The Concerts in the Park series has done well attracting some of the most popular regional stars with this year’s line-up including the very popular folk/rock band The Crane Wives, Kalamazoo’s Big Boss Blues, Grand Rapids honky tonk group Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys, rock ‘n’ roll group Foolish Plezyer, country group Kari Lynch Band, Tejano/Mexican/Conjunto music group Grupo Viento and The Legal Immigrants.

According to Simmons, more than 10,000 people were in attendance to last year’s fireworks show, always the Tuesday before July 4. This year’s fireworks will be on June 28 and feature two bands, one of which is Foolish Plezyer.

A total of 11 groups will perform over the 10 weeks. Simmons said the complete lineup should be available in March and that there is some big news to this year’s concert series, so make sure to be checking the series’ Facebook page and WKTV’s Wyoming/Kentwood NOW.

Also, the Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission hosts the Music & More August event designed to give residents a last summer hurrah with three concerts, food dancing games and activities all in one night. For more on the August event, click here to visit its Facebook page.

Concerts in the Park is free. Lamar Park is located at 2561 Porter St. SW.

Grand Rapids Public Museum announces summer Camp Curious programs

February 17, 2016Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsCamp Curious, Grand Rapids Public Museum, kids, summer campsJoanne

Explore science at the Grand Rapids Public Museum's Camp Curious. — Explore science at the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Camp Curious.

There is something new for this year’s Camp Curious program at the Grand Rapids Public Museum – a special Watershed Wonders camp.

The new program will utilize the recently added exhibit “Grand Fish, Grand River,” which explores how the Great Lakes region’s largest and oldest fish, the Lake Surgeon, once found in abundance, is now a threatened species. According to Museum officials, the exhibit will be used as a way to teach students about the endangered species in Michigan’s watersheds and what has caused it. Students also will be using the Grand River, which runs right outside of the Museum to learn more about the Grand River watershed and the creatures that call it home..

The Watershed Wonders is one of several Camp Curious programs offered June 22 – Aug. 10. The Museum’s summer camp program is designed to explore the wonders of science, history, culture, art and fun. For nine weeks this summer, kids ages 4 – 14 can use the Museum as a learning lab.

Camp Curious offers sessions with a focus on a variety of themes from space exploration to building with Legos®, and from fossils to exploring what it was like to grow up in the Victorian Era. Camp options vary for each age group and are suited to their interest. Age groupings are 4-5 years old, 6-8 years old, 9-11 years old and 12-14 years old.

Registration for the Camp Curious programs is now open and officials say it is better to register earlier than later since some programs fill up quickly.

Discounts are available for enrollment in multiple camps and by registering multiple campers. Additionally, Museum members receive discounts off each camp.

Camps range in dates and duration, including Be Curious Day Camp offering one day sessions every Monday, each based on a different topic. Others camps are multiple days and have options between morning or afternoon sessions.

The Watershed Wonders program is in conjunction with Grand Valley State University’s Teaching English as a Second Language program and is available for age groups 6-8, 9-11 and 12-14.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids. To register and to learn more about Camp Curious, visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s webpage or call 616-456-3977.