WUW will be the kickoff event to a donation drive that runs throughout the month of December. Attendees are asked to donate new, warm clothing such as hats, gloves, scarves, coats and boots. The collected items will be donated to Wyoming area schools.
Meeting a need through change
“This is a reimagining of Wyoming Gives Back, [with] some of the same elements that were there previously,” said Martin, adding that the most noticeable variation is the giving element.
Previously, donations consisted of toys that were then given to the Salvation Army. Martin said the City is still accepting toy donations internally, with drop-off sites located at all City buildings.
After talking with school partners and other community members, however, a greater need was revealed.
“What a lot of the schools need more than anything are coats, hats and boots for their students,” said Martin. “Things that go well beyond the holidays into the colder months.”
What to expect at WUW
(Courtesy, Wyoming Parks & Rec)
The WUW event will feature musical acts from Godwin Heights High School Percussionists and Wyoming Public Schools Jazz Band, cookie decorating, a hot cocoa station, and several crafts.
Several holiday displays will highlight different holiday traditions reflected in the Wyoming community.
Wyoming Public Safety will be in attendance with their vehicles for a Touch-A-Truck opportunity, and attendees can look forward to a visit from Santa, Mrs. Claus – and live reindeer from GG Reindeer Farm.
“We are going to utilize the whole space,” said Martin of WSC. “Most of the crafts and musical performances will take place inside, but we’ll have a staging area set up outside with the reindeer. It will be a good opportunity for kids and families.”
A community effort
The Parks & Rec Department is working with several local organizations to ensure WUW is a success – and to also provide a unique opportunity for a certain group of community members.
Empower U, a Kent ISD program for individuals with special needs who have aged out of the K-12 system, provides specialized instruction, employment opportunities and independent living skills.
“They have been coming and doing some volunteer work at the senior center, providing them with job training,” said Martin. “After the event, they are going to come and go through all of the warm items and sort things for us so they are ready for us to take out to the schools.”
Let the festivities begin!
Lend a hand, give back, and ring in the holiday season at WUW (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
WUW is open to everyone to attend, so come join in the spirit of giving and fun festivities.
If you are unable to attend but would still like to donate, WUW donation bins are available at City Hall now through the month of December.
“This event is a wonderful way to ring in the holiday season and spend quality time with friends and family,” said Martin. “It’s the perfect opportunity to talk to your little ones about the importance of lending a hand and giving back to your community.
“We hope to create a fresh, even newer holiday tradition for everyone in Wyoming.”
For more information about Wrap Up Wyoming, please contact the City of Wyoming Parks & Recreation team at 616-530-3164, parks_info@wyomingmi.gov or www.wyomingmi.gov.
Teens involved in community activism become more politically active and conscious (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
By Rachel Rickman
WKTV Contributor
While it might stand to reason that teenagers involved in activism within their communities become more politically active and conscious adults – there is now evidence to support the idea.
A new University of Michigan (U of M) study brings to light specific ways teen activism leads to more critical thinking and community engagement in young people. In addition, the data shows how youth engaged in community activism are more likely to continue their community and civic action as they get older.
Elevating awareness and engagement in teens
Community engagement promotes understanding of both local and national inequalities (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The study, recently published in Society for Research in Child Development, looks at how teenagers (specifically youths around age 16) elevate their awareness, become more politically involved, and develop a better understanding and more active approach to community engagement by participating in community activism—both youth and adult facilitated.
The study shows that addressing local and national political concerns with a group of peers or mentors helps young people develop a better understanding of their place within their community. They also maintain motivation to address problems related to inequity.
Young people joining in community engagement, the study found, are more likely to continue fighting inequities in society once they leave school.
By participating in their community, teenagers gain a better understanding of the ways inequity works within their own lives and communities as well as nationally. A sense of empowerment in their ability to create meaningful change is also a benefit.
Critical reflection and positive change
The study is based on the work of Paulo Freire, a Brazilian educator, philosopher, and outspoken proponent of critical pedagogy. According to the study, “He believed in the idea of critical reflection and action on the world to make it more just and equitable.”
Freire studied and proved that without development of critical consciousness it is difficult for young people to evolve a sense of their ability to create positive change within their immediate social setting, and that of a larger community.
Empowering action and providing tools
A Grand Rapids organization that has been putting Freire’s work into practice since 1998 is Our Community’s Children(OCC). The organization is a public-private partnership between school systems and city government.
OCC provides a liaison between school systems and city government (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
OCC has multiple programs in place with the similar goal of engaging young people in their community, empowering action, and providing tools and resources to better their own lives and those of others.
Program examples include initiatives such as Kidspeak, a program for K-12 local youth facilitated by the Mayor’s Youth Council that gives young people the chance to talk to school officials, community leaders, and legislators about issues important to them.
The Mayor’s Youth Council, made up of high school city residents, gives these young people the chance to see how city government works. They also gain experience working directly with city officials and programs.
Challenging injustice
Young people participating in community engagement groups reflected in the U of M study are largely of Black, Latino and Hispanic descent—people who experience significantly higher rates of structural inequity. This is also true of OCC.
Engagement in activism programs lead to greater understanding of self and others (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Participating in community activism gives students an objective look at the social problems and injustices surrounding them, allowing for a clearer perspective to challenge these issues. According to the study, “Youth’s exploration leads to a greater understanding of the self and relationships with others.”
Programs like OCC “give a platform to begin the process,” said Shannon Harris, Director of Our Community’s Children. A chance for youth to “start early in knowing how city government works,” and perhaps most importantly, “a brave space” for young people to “feel safe speaking their opinion.”
A wonderful example of continued community activism is found in Grand Rapids City Commissioner Kelsey Purdue. Purdue, a former member of the Mayor’s Youth Council, is now a City Commissioner for the Third Ward.
The conclusion of the study states, “Community-based activism, then, serves as a key consciousness-raising system that supports youth to recognize, negotiate, and challenge oppression in their lives.”
Create and support youth activism
There are many positive short and long-term implications of this study for schools and communities looking to create and support youth activism programs.
Rachel Rickman is a freelance writer, editor, and former university English Instructor with a BA, MA, and MFA focused on writing. She grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, but currently resides in Rosarito, Mexico with her husband and son.
Much of her work focuses on “narrative recipes”—personal essays with recipe/cooking ideas.
KDL has offered the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program since 2015 (Courtesy, KDL)
By Kent District Library
deborah@wktv.org
Kent District Library (KDL) has offered the program 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten since 2015. This year, KDL is pleased provide a new and improved version with the same great outcomes.
The updated program introduces an online tracking option, includes a book with early literacy activities and features Michigan woodland animals.
Reading to children helps them learn early literacy skills (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
All children, infant to kindergarten, are encouraged to participate in this program designed to prepare kids for school. For every 100 books read, kids will earn an animal sticker for their tracking poster. When you reach 1,000 books, your child will be awarded a certificate of achievement and their very own book bag!
Repeating books, listening to audio books, paging through a board book, books read at storytime and reading books in any language all count toward the goal.
“Last year, we committed to creating new inspiration for this popular reading program to ensure that it would remain a fun, relevant and engaging way to encourage early literacy for this generation,” said Dawn Heerspink, Branch Librarian at the Byron Township Branch.
Completing the program is simple, Heerspink continued. “Start or continue reading at least one book a day with the child in your life and see how one book multiplies into many books, all helping that child learn the early literacy skills they need to grow into a reader who enjoys books.”
Stop in to any KDL branch to pick up a tracking and activity booklet for your child that includes a progress poster. Track your reading using the book, online at kdl.beanstack.org, or on the Beanstack app.
Learn more about 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten at kdl.org/1KB4K.
“The Best Me Is Drug Free” writing contest is open to all West Michigan 7th-12th grade students (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
By Deborah Reed
WKTV Managing Editor
deborah@wktv.org
Submissions for the writing contest will be accepted until Oct. 23 (Courtesy: pxhere.com)
“The Best Me Is Drug Free” is the theme for the student-led Teen CHARGE program’s writing contest currently underway – and that is still accepting submissions.
Wedgwood Christian Services’ Teen CHARGE program is celebrating Red Ribbon Week (RRW) with a writing contest that focuses on drug abuse awareness and living drug-free lives.
All 7th-12th grade West Michigan students are invited to submit an original written work to the contest. Submissions can be in the form of a poem, story, song, rap, essay or personal narrative that relates to the theme “The Best Me Is Drug Free.”
Submissions can be emailed to teencharge@wedgwood.org, and will be accepted until Oct. 23. Winners will win gift cards and will have the chance to have their piece published on the Teen CHARGE website if they so choose.
“Every year we try to do things to recognize Red Ribbon Week,” said Gina Boscarino, Wedgwood Christian Services Group Specialist. “I wanted to do something they would be excited about, and I have a lot of students who enjoy writing, specifically creative writing.”
Raising awareness, making a difference
Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program (Courtesy: h9images, Freepik.com)
RRW is an annual, nationwide drug abuse awareness campaign that takes place during the last week of October. The campaign began after the death of Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was brutally murdered in 1985 by a Mexican drug cartel.
Camarena was known to say, “I’m only one person but I want to make a difference.”
The RRW celebration was created in 1988 by the National Family Partnership (NFP) to honor and acknowledge Camarena’s sacrifice by recognizing the harmful effects of drugs on our communities and making commitments to live a drug-free lifestyle.
Authentic and true
Boscarino says many of the written RRW submissions received to date have been “very powerful.”
Many students pledge to live drug-free lives during Red Ribbon Week (Courtesy: storyset, Freepik.com)
“Some of them are talking about why they are not going to do [drugs], or why they don’t feel the need to do drugs or alcohol,” said Boscarino. “And the other half is looking at it from the other perspective, showing the dangers of it [and] how a person loses themselves once they become addicted to something.”
“We are looking for [pieces] that are authentic and true,” Boscarino explained, adding that students do not have to have a personal experience with drugs in order to create a powerful and authentic written work.
Though this is the first year having a writing contest for RRW, Boscarino says they will definitely be doing it again.
“I think one of the great things about writing is that it is a confidence builder for a lot of people,” said Boscarino.
Blog submissions always welcome
Teen CHARGE promotes creativity and accepts blog submissions regularly (Courtesy: pxhere.com)
In fact, students interested in writing are encouraged to submit to the Teen CHARGE blog at any time.
“If kids are interested in writing, we are always taking submissions for the blog even if they’re not a specific Teen CHARGE brand representative,” said Boscarino. “We just really want to promote creativity and making healthy decisions.”
To find out more about Wedgwood Christian Services, visit wedgwood.org. To learn more about Teen CHARGE, visit teencharge.org.
This family-friendly, free event promises an afternoon filled with candy, costumes, face painting, music, bounce houses and more. Local businesses, clubs and organizations will be handing out treats as attendees stroll through the beautiful park.
“The Trick-or-Treat Trail was created to be a fun, safe event for the fall, providing an alternative to traditional Halloween events,” said Krashawn Martin, Director of Wyoming Parks & Recreation. “Trick-or-Treat Trail gives families an opportunity to interact with neighborhood businesses while enjoying all the amenities of Lamar Park and the beauty of the fall season.”
In previous years, the event has welcomed over 65 local businesses and organizations, and more than 6,000 attendees.
What’s Your Story: Write Michigan’s annual short story contest provides a chance for all ages to be published and win money (Courtesy, Kent District Library)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Michigan writers of all ages are invited to enter the 12th annual Write Michigan Short Story Contest.
Kent District Library is pleased to present this annual contest that drew 1,250 entries in 2022. The Write Michigan contest offers separate categories for youth, teens and adults. Winning entries will be published, and the top writers will receive cash prizes.
“This contest gives writers the opportunity to reach their goal of getting published,” said Katie Zuidema, Marketing Communications Specialist at KDL. “Not only do writers have the chance to win $500, but their story could also be available to the masses on bookstore and library shelves across the state.”
Winners of the Write Michigan contest will be published and earn cash prizes (Courtesy, Kent District Library)
Stories can be submitted at writemichigan.org through Thursday, Nov. 30. Details include a 3,000-word maximum length; $10 entry fee for ages 18 and above, free for 17 and under; current Michigan residents only; all entries must be submitted online.
Three cash prizes will be given in each of the three categories ― Judges’ Choice ($500), Readers’ Choice ($250) and Judges’ Choice Runner-up ($250). The top ten stories in each category will be reviewed by a panel of judges comprised of published authors, editors, professors and literary agents. A public vote will determine the winners of Readers’ Choice.
Gary Schmidt, multiple award-winning author and Michigan resident, will be the keynote speaker at the 2024 Write Michigan awards ceremony in March. Schmidt will also be writing the foreword to the anthology, which is published by Chapbook Press.
“Write Michigan is truly a statewide effort,” says Josh Mosey, one of the organizers of the contest. “Kent District Library couldn’t put on the short story contest without our partners, including Schuler Books, Michigan Learning Channel, Capital Area District Library and Canton Public Library.”
Those who enjoy reading stories are encouraged to sign up to be a volunteer story reviewer at writemichigan.org/volunteer.
Those interested can join an online community of writers through Facebook (facebook.com/WriteMichigan) and Instagram (@write.michigan). Get encouragement, writing tips, challenges and more while you plot out your award-winning short story.
Kent District Library is offering a programming series geared towards writers and aspiring writers, covering topics like getting published, freelance writing, self-editing and creating compelling characters. For more details, including dates, times and locations, visit writemichigan.org/writers-conference.
Monarch butterflies play an important role in supporting our natural environment (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)
By John Ball Zoo
deborah@wktv.org
Monarch butterflies will be released into the wild at John Ball Zoo on Saturday, Sept. 9 as part of a wildlife conservation celebration.
During Monarch Day at the Zoo, butterflies will be released at one hour intervals amid family-friendly events designed to teach participants why the butterflies are so important. Butterfly releases will take place at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Monarch Day at the Zoo will feature several family-friendly activities and opportunities to learn about the butterflies (Courtesy, John Ball Zoo)
“We are so excited to welcome guests to experience the wonder of releasing monarch butterflies into the wild so their population can improve, and they can migrate to wintering grounds in Mexico,” said Dan Hemmann, area curator at John Ball Zoo. “People of all ages can enjoy the events of Monarch Day while learning about why this species is so important.”
From 9 a.m.-6 p.m., John Ball Zoo is offering fun, family-friendly activities and opportunities to learn about monarch butterflies and how pollinators help support our natural environment. Characters including Mirabelle, Rapunzel, Tinkerbell and Fawn will be present throughout the day to help spread the message on conservation efforts everyone can take to contribute to a healthy environment for pollinators.
Events also include story time with Circle Theatre at 11 a.m., as well as an aerial performance provided by Gemini Circus from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Monarch Day will also feature live music by Kohns from 4-6 p.m., face painting, and animal activities throughout the day.
Families are getting ready for the start of a new school year (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Woodland Mall and The Salvation Army in Kent County are helping local students get ready to go back to school with a fun event and food drive 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19.
The event will serve as a fundraiser for The Salvation Army’s emergency food pantry. It will also feature a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy in Woodland Mall’s Macy’s Court.
On a monthly basis, The Salvation Army feeds 550 people, including 145 children, and that number is increasing daily.
“We used to provide people with enough food to last three to five days,” said Victoria Arnold, director of Kent County Social Services. “Due to increased demand, we now provide enough food for six days. And we predict we will need another $10,000 alone to stay at that level, just for the next year.”
An increasing number of families are in need food during the school year (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)
Attendees are encouraged to bring shelf-stable food donations to the event or make a monetary donation online to support Salvation Army Kent County Social Services, which provides food pantries, warm meals and sack lunches for community members in need. Personal care items, household products, clothing and baby essentials are also accepted.
“Countless families struggle to access nutritious food, and most affected are children,” said Mikia Ross, interim Senior Marketing Director for Woodland Mall. “To help address this issue, we’re focusing on promoting nutrition for children and families during this year’s back-to-school season and encouraging the community to participate by donating to our charitable partner, Salvation Army. Together, we can help students get the fuel they need to start their academic year out strong!”
Suggested items for donation include:
Canned goods, including meats, fruits and vegetables, with a pop top.
Pasta and pasta sauces.
Ramen noodles.
Macaroni and cheese.
While supporting the nonprofit, event attendees will be able to meet special characters like Princess Tiana and Captain America, enjoy DJ music and games, get their faces painted, make friendship bracelets, view back-to-school fashion displays and get makeover consultations. Those who make a monetary or food donation will also be able to capture memories with a photo booth.
Family resource organization Great Start Collaborative of Kent County is hosting a free in-person event to help parents learn more about the importance of play and developmental screening in children.
Taking place Saturday, Aug. 12 at Alger Head Start in Grand Rapids, the 4th annual “Books, Blocks and Balls” event will offer fun activities for the entire family from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m..
Participants will receive a goodie bag filled with items proven to help with child development. Every child that attends, regardless of age, will receive a free book.
Families will also have the opportunity to complete a developmental screening onsite, which can help parents know what to look for at certain ages and stages in their children.
(Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)
There will be a variety of activities, food options and family fun onsite, including: raffles for free prizes every 30 minutes, food trucks offering free food to participants, games and movement activities with The Zumba Lady, face painting and balloon twisting, interactive activities at each vendor table, and more.
Participating alongside Great Start Collaborative will be dozens of community organizations providing additional giveaways and resources to families in attendance.
One such organization is First Steps Kent, an independent non-profit that works to strengthen and coordinate the system of early childhood services through research and innovation.
First Steps Kent is leading a community-wide effort to develop a system of support for children ages 0-5 (and their families) that ensures every young child in Kent County will enter kindergarten ready to succeed in school and in life.
This event was made possible because of the generosity of Kent County taxpayers and the voter-approved Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage that provides dedicated and sustainable funding for programs that improve the health, school readiness, and well-being of children under age five in Kent County.
Annual Summer Market hosted by Magnus Capital Partners (Courtesy, Magnus Capital Partners)
by Deborah Reed
deborah@wktv.org
Magnus Capital Partners (MCP) will host its third annual, free-to-attend Summer Market featuring more than 25 vendors at HōM Flats at 28 West Saturday, Aug. 12.
Open to the public and HōM Flats residents, the event will take place from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. at 1401 Prairie Parkway SW in the City of Wyoming. Community members are invited to enjoy live music and browse items for sale from local food trucks, artisans and other vendors.
“This is the perfect fit of bringing people out of their apartments, gathering, and building those bonds with each other and with the community,” said Jason Chronowski, Magnus Marketing Manager.
In addition to bringing community members together, the Summer Market also works to support local artists.
“Our Summer Market at HōM Flats creates an opportunity for people to strengthen their community by supporting local small businesses, gain an appreciation for the depth and breadth of emerging local artists, and engage in a positive atmosphere that recognizes our most basic need to create connections with others,” said Magnus CEO Vishal Arora.
(Courtesy, Robert Couse-Baker at pxhere.com)
Chronowski said that feedback on the Summer Market has been positive, with residents saying they enjoy the event and meeting their neighbors.
“It’s nice that this has both elements to it where it’s not only for our residents, it’s for the public too,” said Chronowski.
Attendees are encouraged to park at the south end of the 28 West Place Mall parking lot, located just east of HōM Flats at 28 West off of Prairie Parkway. Overflow parking will be available at Wyoming High School.
More than just a summer market
The event will serve as the main annual fundraiser for the Magnus Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to cultivating art, culture and community-building in the areas where Magnus Capital Partners operates.
Focused on building connections with artists and local communities, the Magnus Foundation often utilizes funds to pay local artists to give HōM residents free art classes. The Foundation also commissions artwork from West Michigan artists to be used at various MCP locations.
Though the Magnus Foundation is a recent addition to MCP, Chronowski says it is off to a “really good start,” and that events like the Summer Market help “develop that momentum” in keeping the Foundation moving forward.
To learn more about the Magnus Foundation or to make a contribution to the Foundation, email info@magnuscapitalpartners.com.
Event sponsors
The sole platinum sponsor for this year’s Summer Market is Hooker DeJong, Inc. Other key sponsors include Coldbrook Insurance, Merchants Capital, Rohde Construction and Highpoint Community Bank.
During a summer market, a Wyoming firefighter sends a message about safety. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
The City of Wyoming is inviting community members to participate in National Night Out events throughout the city on Tuesday, Aug. 1.
An annual event celebrated across the country, National Night Out encourages residents to turn on their porch lights and gather with their neighbors, community leaders, and police and fire personnel.
Wyoming police officers, firefighters and leaders will join residents at multiple gatherings across the city. Most events will take place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and residents will have the opportunity to explore police and fire equipment, including police cruisers, fire trucks and other emergency response vehicles, as well as learn about a variety of safety topics. Community members can also visit with the Wyoming Police Department K9 team.
“National Night Out is something staff and our community look forward to each year,” Mayor Pro Tem Rob Postema said. “Our team is looking forward to another fun year of building relationships with our residents and having a good time while connecting with the community we serve.”
Give me five: A resident gives a Wyoming police officer a high-five. (WKTV)
Lt. Kirt Zuiderveen of the Wyoming Police Department agreed. “People are busier than they’ve ever been. It’s a great night for people to go outside the house, lock their doors, turn the lights on, and meet the neighbors,” Zuiderveen said.
The department will hold community events at Lamar Park, Celebration Cinema Rivertown, Grace Christian University, Grace Christian Reformed Church and The Door Church.
Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Celebration Cinema, 3728 Rivertown Pkwy from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Grace Christian University, 1011 Aldon St. SW from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a fire truck water activity at 5:45 p.m.
Grace Christian Reformed Church, 3030 Burlingame Ave SW from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The Door Church, 154 44th St. SW, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
“Spending time and having fun with residents is important for all of our officers and firefighters as we work to build and strengthen relationships in our community,” said Director of Public Safety Kimberly Koster. “National Night Out allows us to connect with residents in a positive and meaningful way. We are looking forward to returning to connecting with community members across our city.”
Zuiderveen said residents benefit from knowing their neighbors. “[Neighbors] watch out for each other. They build relationships, they build trust. There is safety in numbers,” Zuiderveen continued. “If you are a victim of a crime, you are more willing to share it with your neighbors if there is trust.”
National Night Out began in the 1984 with a group of law enforcement agencies, volunteers, neighborhood watch groups, and state and regional crime prevention associations. It grew from porch vigils to neighborhood celebrations to promote safety in communities and build relationships with public safety.
To learn more about the National Night Out, visit natw.org
Dominic Dorset as Kristoff and Collin Baja as Sven in the “Frozen” North American Tour. Photo by Matthew Murphy (Disney)
By John Gonzalez WKTV Contributing Writer
If you call him “Kristoff,” Michigan native Dominic Dorset won’t mind.
“Yes, this is,” he said when we called him “Kristoff” answering the phone in a recent WKTV interview.
Is he tired of people calling him his character name?
“No, that’s alright,” he said. “I’m used to it by now, if anything.”
Dorset, a native of Saline, and 2022 graduate of the University of Michigan theater program, is excited to be on his first major tour in Disney’s “Frozen,” which plays this week (July 11-16) at DeVos Performance Hall, presented by Broadway Grand Rapids.
Bringing to life a familiar story to life
He’s learned a lot about the show, and being on the road, since the tour kicked off last September.
“I’ve gotten more comfortable with the part, having done the show eight times a week,” he said with a laugh.
Dominic Dorset (Courtesy)
“We have new cast members who come and go, so it changes, and the show has to adjust if the theater is bigger or the crowds livelier.”
The goal, he said, is to have consistent performances.
“But the reality is, we, as actors, have good days, and we have bad days,” he said. “We have days where we’re more energetic, and we have days where we’re a little slow. You’re never going to see the same show twice. But, overall, it’s always going to be ‘Frozen.’”
From the producers of “The Lion King” and “Aladdin,” The Tony-nominated “Frozen” brings back the familiar story – and songs – that fans of all ages know and love.
Something familiar
Wth music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and book by Jennifer Lee, “Frozen” the musical is based on the 2013 film of the same name and centers on the relationship between two sisters – Elsa and Anna – who are princesses.
As fans know, Elsa has magical powers to freeze objects, and people, which she has difficulty controlling. She inadvertently causes the kingdom to become frozen in an eternal winter, and nearly kills her sister.
Kristoff and his trusty reindeer companion, Sven, play a key role in the storyline.
Dorset said fans of the “Frozen” movies will love the musical because of the familiar songs, “but it’s going to be more than that, too.”
“It’s a Broadway production, which means it’s going to have the highest quality of dancing, singing, acting, set design, costume design, puppetry – EVERYTHING!” he said. “It’s top-notch quality. It’s amazing.”
Something new
Fans will also get to hear a lot of new songs not in the films.
“The writers wrote about a dozen new songs…so if you come see the show, you’re going to see the movie you know, but you’re going to see a lot more than that…You won’t hear these songs anywhere else except for on this stage.”
Dorset said he’s been a fan of the film from the time it came out, “along with the rest of the world.”
“I guess I consider myself to be a pretty big Disney fan,” he said, growing up on the Disney Channel.
He said his parents recount how, as a kid, he was “obsessed with Cinderella and Snow White.”
“Which is kind of funny,” he said. “I was really into Disney from the time I could walk.”
A love for theater
He started in local theater in fourth grade, then at Saline High School. A summer camp between his junior and senior year in high school on the campus of UM introduced him to theater students all across the country.
Lauren Nicole Chapman as Anna and Dominic Dorset as Kristoff in the “Frozen” North American Tour. Photo by Matthew Murphy (Disney)
“I got to see kids who were really, really good. Some who had already been on Broadway. That was eye-opening to me and showed me what was possible.”
He applied to several colleges, but was excited to land at the University of Michigan because it was so close to home.
He said the thrill of creating shared experiences on stage is the magic that has him hooked every night.
“I just love stepping into somebody else’s shoes,” he said. “That’s what it’s all about. It’s telling somebody else’s story, finding the similarities and differences between you and the character that you’re playing, and bringing the words to life for a live audience.
Whole different experience
“There is something about everybody going through the experience of that story in the same room together is really addicting to me.”
That’s why fans should come see “Frozen,” he said. It’s the familiar story of Elsa and Anna, but in a live setting.
“It’s their journey of finding love and acceptance with one another, and other people, but it definitely has some updates, some new interpretations and just things you won’t get from seeing the original movie.” Dorset said. “So you have to come see the stage production.”
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
“Ice Age: Michgian’s Frozen Secrets” features how Michigan landscapes looked thousands of years ago. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
By Adam Brown WKTV Contributor
Have you ever wished to go back in time to the dawn of the Ice Age? Or look at the impacts of snow on a global scale? Now you can, with the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s new exhibits Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets and Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact.
What Are the New Exhibits?
Set to run May 20 through Sept. 3, the new exhibits put a unique Michigan spin on global events. In addition, they continue the GRPM’s mission of educating the public through immersive and enriching displays. Of the GRPM’s new additions, Public Museum’s Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations Dustin Tyler noted, “Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets and Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact are two incredibly unique and exciting exhibits that we are thrilled to bring to our community. We believe both exhibits will provide visitors with unforgettable educational experiences and inspire curiosity about Michigan’s history and the impact of snow on our environment.”
Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets
Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets localizes the historical period, focusing on modern-day West Michigan when prehistoric animals dominated the Earth. The exhibit depicts how the landscape looked thousands of years ago, with a chance to interact with some of the area’s native creatures. In addition, patrons can enjoy tactile experiences where they can handle actual fossilized bones and teeth from the era. The available bones come from a selection of a recently discovered mastodon in the Grand Rapids area.
Visitors will be able touch mastodon bones that were found in Grand Rapids. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
In August 2022, mastodon bones were uncovered during a construction dig at the Grand Rapids property of Michael and Courtney Clapp. Wanting to keep the artifacts local and accessible to the public, the Clapps donated their namesake Clapp Family Mastodon to the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The recovered bones form the basis of the Ice Age exhibit. In this fully immersive experience, visitors are encouraged to touch and observe the bones and teeth, connecting them to the life of early humans in the area.
Though designed to supplement material learned in the classroom, Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets is geared toward all ages, per GRPM Marketing Manager Sara Olsen. People naturally question what their home state might have looked like in the prehistoric era. This exhibit is designed to answer those burning questions by allowing museumgoers to physically interact with what came before.
Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact
Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact takes the opposite route, looking at snow globally and how it impacts worldwide climate systems. No matter where we live, snow impacts us all. In this exhibit, patrons can examine all the ways this natural weather phenomenon affects the globe.
“Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact” will look at how snow impacts worldwide climate systems. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
While new to the GRPM, Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact was initially developed by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland, Oregon. Like the GRPM, the OMSI is devoted to fostering learning and curiosity in its visitors through interactive experiments, exhibits, and demonstrations for a younger, school-age demographic.
In Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact, guests answer one fundamental question. What is snow? An immersive digital snowstorm enables visitors to interact with snow crystals, examining how each is truly unique. While all ages may enjoy the exhibit, the tactile games make the experience especially rewarding for the younger crowd by allowing them to take an interactive role in the process, per Olson. Guests can also listen to oral histories about snow from elders and culture leaders of the Inupiaq tribes to supplement the interactive game. These elements seek to educate the public about the importance of snow in the worldwide climate system and how each tiny crystal has a global impact.
Despite differing scopes and content, the GRPM designed Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets and Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact to work in tandem with one another. Both offer glimpses into climate and weather patterns over time and allow patrons to interact with those patterns while building an understanding of the world around them.
Guests who purchase general admission tickets to the GRPM between May 20 and Sept. 3 can participate in the new exhibits, with free admission for those 17 and under. In addition, members can receive early access to the exhibits through an exclusive members only preview. Those interested may find information on museum hours and ticket prices at the GRPM’s official website.
A competition at the FIRST Robotics event at East Kentwood. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
By D.A. Reed WKTV Contributor
GRP Titans Nikolai Nigersoll demonstrates how the team’s robot works. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
Battery issues were the challenge that Grand Rapids Prep Titans FIRST robotics team faced on Saturday, but they did not have to go far to find support.
“We are a team here,” GRP Titans mentor Matt Stewart said of all the 39 participating robotics teams at Kentwood’s FIRST Robotics competition. “All of robotics is a community-oriented thing. We’ve learned so much from all of the other teams.”
Multiple teams reaching out to give GRP Titans tools to help them test their battery, offering their team’s batteries, and offering to let the Titans charge in their pits.
“Everyone is so graceful and helpful,” said Stewart. “In the pits, it’s a community. Once you’re on the field, then you (have to) compete.”
“The Hardest Fun You’ll Ever Have”
The East Kentwood Red Storm Robotics Team (3875) hosted the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) qualifying tournament March 31-April 1, 2023. The competition was sponsored by Dematic, a supplier of materials handling systems, software and services based in Grand Rapids. It gave the teams an opportunity to qualify for the state competition, which is April 6-8 at Saginaw Valley State University.
FIRST Robotics Competition is designed to combine the excitement of sport with the precisions of science and technology. FIRST Robotics’ website calls their competitions “the ultimate Sport for the Mind,” while high school participants have labeled it “the hardest fun you’ll ever have.”
Michigan Robotics teams strive to teach students a multitude of skills, including mechanical engineering, computer-aided design, electrical engineering, programming, systems integration, website building, animation, and fabrication/machining skills.
“You see the kids mature, and one of the big things is all the technical skills,” said event coordinator Wendy Ljungren, adding that the program has opened the college door for many students. “It’s been great to see our kids going into the STEM fields. We’ve had people become doctors, and lawyers, and professionals in engineering and STEM fields, and really see them transition.”
Teaching Life Skills
Sara Robarge, mother of EK teammate Kailey Robarge, said she has seen strong leadership skills taking hold in her daughter over the last year.
Red Storm Robotics teammates Mo Otajagic and Kailey Robarge carry the team’s robot Terence off the field. (WLTV/D.A. Reed)
“I have seen her take on leadership that I hoped I had instilled in her, but I have seen her put it into practice this year,” Robarge said. “As a freshman, she stepped out and tried out for the Drive Team. She also stepped up and said, ‘I’ll lead a robot build.’”
EK robotics mentor Mark VanderVoord said he has seen growth in many students, this year being current team captain Sarah Shapin.
Since Shapin joined the team in sixth grade, “she has learned a lot of technical skills. She’s going to U of M (University of Michigan) next year to do computer programming. Outside of that, she has a high-level view of how it all fits together and how everybody should be working together.
“All of the kids look up to her at this point,” said VanderVoord. “And she was the goofy one when she started!”
VanderVoord emphasized that robotics students are learning far more than how to build a robot.
“It’s about all the life skills,” VanderVoord said. “The teamwork and the technology stuff, but there are kids on our team who are learning marketing and there are kids who are learning all sorts of disciplines. We’re teaching kids to learn (everything).”
Growing the team is a large part of Red Storm Coach Trista VanderVoord’s focus.
“This year we focused a lot on recruitment,” Trista VanerVood said. :We wanted to grow our numbers, but mostly grow our numbers of girls, of females in the program.”
The Building Blocks
That recruitment doubled the size of the Red Storm team overall, with now over 40% of the team consisting of females—quadrupling its female percentage from last year.
East Kentwood’s Red Storm Robotics team stand next to their robot, Terence. The team competes at the state championship this weekend. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“It’s been awesome to see the growth, and it’s been awesome to see the sub-teams that have developed there and really come together and take on their part of the team,” Trista VanderVoord said.
EK’s Red Storm finished the tournament 20 out of 39 with a ranking score of 1.66, 5-7-0, 20 ranking points, and earned the Team Sustainability Award. The team already had earned a spot at the state competition by winning the highest award, the Impact Award, at the Lakeshore competition in March.
Other teams at this weekend’s state competition are Hopkns’ Tech Vikes (2054), West Catholic’s Enigma Robotics (2075), Forest Hills’ Comets (3357) and Code Red Robotics the Stray Dogs (2771), which is a community team based out of Byron Center High School.
Abby Strait, high school senior and part of Wyoming High School’s Demons Robotics (858) team, has no trouble taking ownership of her role on the team.
“I’ve always been one of the people who has their hands all over the robot,” Strait said. “By the time we get to the competition, I know the robot inside and out. The more you put into the program, the more you get out of it.”
Demons Robotics finished the tournament 15 out of 39 with a ranking score of 1.83, 7-5-0 (wins-losses-ties), and 22 ranking points.
GRP Titans
Grand River Preparatory High School participated in the EK tournament with its first robotics team in ten years, the GRP Titans (9206), due to grants received from FIRST Robotics.
Stewart said that all students participating have been very invested in the program.
“Some of them had no prior experience, some of them only had building, yet every student has been all hands on deck with everything, and it’s been really cool to see,” Stewart said. “They all know what they do best, what they need to work on, so it’s been really fun to see them all working together.”
Though the Titans currently have approximately 15 team members, Stewart sees that number growing and sustaining since the team is composed mostly of underclassmen.
The GRP Titans finished the tournament 28 out of 39 with a ranking score of 1.50, 4-8-0, and 18 ranking points.
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
Terence, the Red Storm Robotics FRC Robot, is rolling into Kentwood’s home tournament on March 31 and April 1 to take on 37 other FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Teams’ robots for a chance to advance to the state tournament. In this Charged UpSM competition, the Red Storm Robotics team reimagines the future of sustainable energy and powers its ideas forward to victory.
Terence, the Red Storm Robotics’ robot. (Courtesy, Red Storm Robotics)
This is a free event for everyone starting at 10:30 am on Friday, March 31. WKTV Community television crews will be at East Kentwood both days providing television coverage of the FIRST Robotics competition. WKTV’s coverage will be available for broadcast on WKTV and streamed via WKTV’s on demand service in the month of April.
The public is encouraged to attend and cheer our Red Storm Robotics team, or their favorite local team, as they demonstrate “gracious professionalism” through their application of mechanical engineering, computer-aided design, electrical engineering, programming, systems integration, website building, animation, and fabrication/machining skills. Red Storm Robotics’ Terence utilizes autonomous and driver-assisted modes, optical sensors to help guide it to targets, an elevator arm with a mechanical cone-grabbing claw, and gyroscope-assisted balancing to help it perform in this year’s 2022-2023 competition. The KPS FRC Team #3875 is made up of approximately 40 high school students, four coaches, and four mentors from the Kentwood Public Schools and nearby communities.
Project-based, hands-on FIRST® programs introduce students to engineering and coding in an engaging, inclusive, and creative after-school environment where students work collaboratively to solve an annual robotics challenge centered around a yearly theme. Boosted by a million-strong global community of students, mentors, educators, volunteers, sponsors, and alumni in over 100 countries.
According to those at the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, students have until March 1 to apply for scholarships available through its organization. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Community Foundation)
If you are a high school graduate interested in pursuing welding as a career, there is a scholarship for that. Perhaps you are interested in nursing or education or maybe you are interested in a post-graduate degree in business or law. There are scholarships for that.
The Grand Rapids Community Foundation is currently accepting applications for more than $1 million in scholarships to support students pursuing post-secondary education and training. By completing one application, students will be considered for hundreds of scholarship opportunities from more than 80 scholarship funds. Students pursuing bachelor and graduate degrees or technical training certificates are eligible to apply.
Some of the scholarships are specific to studies, high schools or colleges. For example, the Pullen/Lambers Memorial Scholarship is available to graduating seniors from Wyoming High School who attend a credited U.S. college/university with a preference given to education or entrepreneurial studies.
If you are senior or graduate from Godfrey Lee, Godwin Heights, Wyoming, Kelloggsville, Kentwood, Grandville or Grand Rapids, you could apply for the Hackett Family Scholarship. Students at Grand Rapids University Prep Academy can apply for the Founders’ Scholarship and South Christian students planing to major in healthcare, education or business may apply for the Roger and Jacquelyn Vander Laan Family Scholarship.
There is also scholarships like the Llewellyn L. Cayvan String Instrument Scholarship for undergraduate or graduate students studying violin, viola, violoncello, or the bass viol. There is not financial or residency requirements.
Grand Rapids Community Foundation noted in a press release that it is committed to providing opportunities for first generation students with financial need to further their education. Scholarships are available for students with a wide variety of backgrounds, GPA’s and levels of education from public and private institutions. Last year, the Community Foundation awarded $1.45 million in scholarships to 630 students.
Contributions from community members make the scholarship funds possible. Many donors have chosen to set up a fund to honor a family member or to provide opportunities for students to attend college or pursue a specific profession. Award decisions are made by more than 100 volunteer community members with applicable experience who serve on scholarship advisory committees.
The general scholarship application for the 2023-2024 academic year opened Dec. 1 and will remain open until March 1, 2023. Interested students can find more information and apply at GRFoundation.org/Scholarships.
The fall 2022 Alpha Wolf recipients. From left, sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo, junior Gage Behrenbrinker, freshman Zander Creamer, junior Dominik (Buster) Cross, sophomore Tarren Calvert, senior Bryce Bosovich, and freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra. Not pictured is Jesus Valadez Cano. (Courtesy, John Doyle)
Along with the addition of the freshman and sophomore classes, the school welcomed 170 students from other schools, of which 47 students were from different countries, and 28 new staff members.
To represent the high school body, 1,300 paper chains were strung together across the gym’s ceiling.
“Every paper chain represents you. It represents our staff,” said teacher John Doyle, who helps to organize the Alpha Wolf program. “There are over 1,300 chains and they are all connected because that is what we are about.”
A11 Moment Ahead
Guess speaker Mark Kuiper, from the Wyoming High School staff, focused on the second part of the Alpha Wolf theme, “What is your A11 Moment Ahead?”
“An Alpha Wolf Moment Ahead is when you chose not to judge someone based on the color of their skin or that they talk different than you and they may share a different view of the world.” Kuiper said. “Instead you get to know them, know their story…An AW Moment Ahead of kindness, compassion, and graciousness usually appear in the usual, in the mundane, ordinary day-to-day, hour-by-hour routine of our lives. We need to look past our own face. We need to look up.
“Because the moment you look up, you begin to see the signs and when you decide to chose kindness over indifference, when you decide to chose compassion over apathy, when you chose grace over holding a grudge…you are seeing AW 11 Moments ahead become a lifetime and it will change a life.”
Zander Creamer walks up to receive his award. (WKTV)Zander Creamer is congratulated by his family. (WKTV)
Freshmen
Zander Creamer
According to many, the best word that encompasses freshman Zander Creamer is leader.
“This young man is getting it done at Wyoming High School,” according to staff. “Whether in the classroom, in the hallway, in the cafeteria or participating in extra-curricular activities he radiates Alpha Wolf 11 to all who cross his path.”
It did not take long for Creamer to settle in at the high school and as he did, he helped others make the transition to their new chapter in life.
“He is really a sweet kid who constantly has a smile on his face to try and to make people feel welcome and to lift them up when they are feeling down,” students and staff said.
No matter the setting, Creamer makes the effort to get to know the people around him and let them know they feel valued and appreciated through his contagious smile and kind words.
He figures out math problems on his own time. He enjoys robotics, riding his bike, and eating Mexican food as well as spicy, sweet and sour. He has a love for soccer and enjoys watching the Olympics, especially baseball.
Freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra sits in the audience. (WKTV)Omar Resendiz-Parra accepts his award with his family. (WKTV)
Omar Resendiz-Parra
From that description, it did not take long for students to recognize that freshman Omar Resendiz-Parra was the next Alpha Wolf.
“I have never heard him say an unkind word or be remotely critical about anyone,” said one of his teachers. “He has never said anything out of frustration or irritation. In fact, he has challenged himself to be a better version of a kind and gracious person that he already is.”
During parent teacher conferences, Resendiz-Parra helped his father understand by translating everything. He does everything with a kind heart, according to another staff member, and he is willing to help anyone on a daily basis.
Students and staff all agreed that Resendiz-Parra leads by example.
Sophomores
Tarren Calvert
Sophomore Tarren Calvert shakes hands with family members. (WKTV)
Unusually the first thing sophomore Tarren Calvert will ask someone when he sees them is how his/her day is going.
Calvert simply does good deeds whether anyone is looking or not and people are looking. They have noticed how he goes out of his way to help others, especially helping classmates with homework and other tasks.
“It does not take long for everyone who meets this Alpha Wolf to feel the positive energy he gives with everyone he meets,” according to students and staff, adding that this junior varsity basketball star is positive, respectful and selfless.
Sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo walks up to accept her award. (WKTV)Berlinda Pablo-Pablo stands with her family for a photo. (WKTV)
Berlinda Pablo-Pablo
All it took was the statement “She is a flute player and participates in the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Mosaic Scholarship program” for many to quickly guess that sophomore Berlinda Pablo-Pablo was the next sophomore Alpha Wolf.
“Those who have interacted with this student have said this Alpha Wolf 11 left them with a lasting impression,” according to staff. “She is hardworking, strives for excellence and is the embodiment of joy.”
According to her peers, Pablo-Pablo is “a great friend with a sweet and tender heart, a kind shoulder with a big smile, constantly friendly, and never rude to anyone, and she is supportive and ready and able to cheer up a person and make them laugh.”
Juniors
Gage Behrenbrinker
Junior Gage Behrenbrinker walks up to accept his award as his family watches. (WKTV)
A member of the variety football and basketball, junior Gage Behrenbrinker is definitely a servant leader.
Just some of the words/sayings staff and students said about Behrenbrinker were:
Very cool
Always happy
Likes helping classmates and is always helping at school
Works to improves everyone they are around
Always a positive attitude
Makes everyone’s day better
Polite
Respectful
Inspiring
A great role model
A great leader
Someone we all look up to
Because of these many attributes, Behrenbrinker, according to many, is the perfect example of an Alpha Wolf.
Junior Dominkik (Buster) Cross is congratulated by family members. (WKTV)Dominik (Buster) Cross poses with his family for a picture. (WKTV)
Domink (Buster) Cross
Always there for his friends and family, junior Dominik (Buster) Cross uses his voice to encourage the absolute best out of everyone.
According to staff, Cross is bold, honest, and optimistic and there is never a day that he does not put his best foot forward.
He leads by example, has a smile that lights up the room, and always shows grace especially in the face of challenges, which is why the students and staff chose him to as an Alpha Wolf.
Senior Bryce Bosovich is congratulated by family members and staff. (WKTV)Bryce Bosovich stands with his family. (WKTV)
Seniors
Bryce Bosovich
“I have never had the opportunity to have this scholar in class at the junior or high school, but every time I have had conversations with him it has been super respectful, polite, and mature and sometimes sports related,” said teacher Shawn Veenstra who was one of several Alpha Wolf presenters.
For Bryce Bosovich, it was noted it was difficult to compact all the Alpha Wolf characteristics that he has in a short narrative, but the presenters were certainly willing to try.
Comments from students included:
“He is my best friend and has always helped me when I am going through something.”
“He never fails to put a smile on my face.”
“He is always super nice to everyone in class and is always kind to people he sees. He has just an awesome personality and if I say so myself this guy has a bright future on his shoulders as well.”
According to staff, Bosovich’s laugh is instantly familiar. He is thoughtful, respectful, selfless, and always positive.
Jesus Valadez Cano
Jesus Valadez Cano moved to the United States from Mexico a few years ago and in that short time has established himself as a person of integrity, humility and someone who cares about others and their successes.
“When others in class may not understand something or have different ideas Jesus (Valadez Cano) is considerate and works with them in a positive way,” according to staff. “There is no pretense and no arrogance from this student. He simply lifts others up. He has only one mode: positive.”
Known for working with Spanish students to make sure they understand their school, about every student in the school loves working with Valadez Cano because he is such a great listener, values the opinions of others and openly shares his own ideas.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma with GRAM Director of Art Chris Bruce. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
It was by chance that Chris Bruce was introduced to the world of Jim Henson.
“As a family, we would go to these auctions,” Bruce said. “At one, there was a box of kids toys that we got. At the bottom of the box, there was a VHS (tape) which was the ‘Dark Crystal.’”
It was love at first viewing.
“I just love how he understood the need for kids to face fear,” Bruce said. “That they needed to be able to recognize it and know what it is.”
Fast forward several years and Bruce, who is now working for the Grand Rapids Art Museum, is in New York. A friend tells him about an exhibit of Jim Henson’s work at the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI).
Bruce arrived at the MoMI, only to find it closed. But all was not lost as he managed to convince someone to let him in to see “The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited.”
“After seeing it, I knew immediately that the Museum needed to bring this exhibit in,” Brue said, adding that staff had been considering it. “It has everything that we were seeking for an installation. It is entertaining. It is diverse. It is vibrant and it is relatable.
“I saw it as something that would speak to everyone.”
It would take a few more years for the Museum to get the exhibit on its schedule and during that time Bruce was named the GRAM’s director of art and is the curator for the exhibit.
And as Bruce moves a small group through the exhibit, you can quickly tell that the GRAM picked the best person to curate this particular exhibit.
Life’s like a movie
Opened at the beginning of October, the exhibit features a broad range of artifacts related to Henson’s career. This includes more than 20 puppets, character sketches, storyboards, scripts, photographs, film and television clips, behind-the-scenes footage, and iconic costumes. There are also interactive experiences that allow visitors to try their hand at puppeteering on camera and designing a puppet character.
As the group moves through the exhibit, Bruce tells of of the layout and story behind the exhibit.
Visitors travel through a timeline of Henson’s career with the different sections color-coated. Greeted by a 1978 Kermit the Frog, the exhibit starts with Henson’s early life when he was first introduced to television and puppetry. It weaves through his first television show, “Sam and Friends” leading into his years with “Sesame Street.”
Characters from “Fraggle Rock”The stuff animals from “The “Labyrinth”
“The Muppet Show,” which ran from 1976-1981, is featured prominently with all the episodes being run at the sametime on a screen. Continue to follow the path through the hall to discover such iconic shows “Muppet Babies” and “Fraggle Rock” which leads to Henson’s groundbreaking “Dark Crystal” and “Labyrinth,” which starred David Bowie. The exhibit ends looking at some of the projects Henson was working on before his untimely death in 1990.
“And if you watch the closing monitor, you can even see Jim Henson saying ‘good-bye,” Bruce said.
Joining Kermit are such familiar characters as Grover, Ernie, Bert, and Count von Count from “Sesame Street”; Dr. Bunsen Honeydew, Beaker, and Scooter from “The Muppets”; and Jen and Kira puppets from “The Dark Crystal.” Also on display are the costumes from “The Labyrinth.”
Making a connection
Grand Rapids Art Museum Director of Art Chris Bruce in front of the Jen and Kira puppets from “The Dark Crystal.” (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
“It has been an incredible opportunity to be the curator while this exhibit is here,” Bruce said.
As for a favorite section, Bruce said he couldn’t pick one. Each has its place and, while all were made for children, there meanings and theme reach out to what is going on today.
“‘Fraggle Rock’ was about race relations and how people need to work together,” Bruce said, adding that making connections was another them that ran through Henson’s work.
“I think the takeaway from all of this is being together,” Bruce said. “We are all different but we are all in this together.”
The “Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited” runs through Jan. 14 at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center NW. Throughout the months of December and January, there are several drop-in and adult workshops centered around puppetry in celebration of the exhibit. For more information, visit artmuseumgr.org.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is pleased to announce a new show titled: Big Astronomy: People, Paces, Discoveries, is coming to the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium which features three observatories located in Chile, in some of the world’s most extreme and remote places. The show will be part of the schedule of programmatic offerings at the Chaffee Planetarium beginning Friday, Nov. 25.
“Big Astronomy: People, Paces, Discoveries” showcases the people needed to run an observatory. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Through stunning visualizations, Big Astronomy: People, Places, Discoveries shows examples of the multitude of STEM careers needed to keep these great observatories working. The show is narrated by Barbara Rojas-Ayala, a Chilean astronomer. This new show will be featured in the Chaffee Planetarium’s winter schedule among audience favorites such as Ice Worlds and Let it Snow!
“What I love about Big Astronomy is that it shows visitors, especially students and children, the real people who work on these world-class observatories. We get to meet not just the astronomers, but the engineers, technicians, and teachers who contribute to the work of astronomy,” said Jack Daleske, the GRPM’s Planetarium and Theater Manager. “We want audiences to see themselves in the people they see in our shows, and Big Astronomy will help make that connection for viewers.”
Big Astronomy: People, Paces, Discoveries will be part of the regular show schedule at the GRPM’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, beginning on Friday, Nov. 25. Tickets are $4 with general admission, $5 for planetarium-only access, and $2 for Museum members. Capacity is limited and advance ticketing is recommended. Tickets to Big Astronomy: People, Places, Discoveries are available by visiting grpm.org/planetarium. Showtimes can also be reserved for school groups in English or Spanish by visiting grpm.org/schools.
Big Astronomy is a multifaceted research and outreach project supported by several partners and funded by the National Science Foundation.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Four-year-old Legende Gray (thrd from left) helps with the groundbreaking ceremony for Kentwood’s Early Childhood Center. (WKTV)
Out of everyone there to mark the start of construction for Kentwood Public School’s new early education center, four-year-old Legende Gray captured the excitement the best.
He waved to the crowd when introduced by Superintendent Kevin Polston and immediately ran up to grab a shovel when it was time for the symbolic turning of the soil for the groundbreaking ceremony.
“No, I want one of the big ones,” Legende said as Polston tried to hand him a smaller shovel. “I’m ready to dig the hole.”
A building just for preschoolers
About 30 people turned out on the chilly Tuesday morning for the official groundbreaking ceremony that signaled the start of construction for the 40,000-square-foot facility. The state-of-the-art building designed for three- and four-year-olds in preschool programs will be next to the district’s Townline Elementary, located just east of the intersection of Division Avenue and 60th Street.
The project is the first from the $192 million bond request that was approved by voters in 2021. Besides the early childhood center, the bond included a new K-8th grade building along with enhancing various spaces in the district’s school buildings and funding the district’s technology needs.
“Quality early childhood has many benefits but most importantly provides the building blocks for education for our most vulnerable learners,” Polston said, adding that research has shown students who attend preschool have improved academic outcomes and are socially and emotionally more prepared for school.
The facility will house several preschool programs such as:
Early On, which assists families with infants and toddlers who have a delay in their development or diagnosed disability.
A design of common areas features nooks where students that include interactive activities and a place for students to take a break. (WKTV)
Head Start, a non-profit agency that provides holistic, family-centered services at no costs to quality families in Kent County.
Bright Beginnings, which provides services to families with children birth to kindergarten entry throughout Kent County through such services as personal home visits, playgroups, and parent meetings.
Early Childhood Special Education, a Kentwood Public Schools program that offers evaluations, home services, outpatient therapy, and classroom programs to preschool students with special education needs.
Tuition-based preschool, a nonprofit program that is offered through the Kentwood Public Schools.
Designing around the youngest learners
The needs of the students are being considered throughout the design, said K’Sandra Earle, the director of Kentwood’s Early Childhood Center. For example, technology is being considered not only to support all learners but to meet a diverse student population that includes students with special rights and special abilities, Earle said.
“There will be heated floors,” she said as an example of the details being considered. “In preschool, we spend much of our time on the floor so making sure students are made as comfortable as possible is important.”
Through a collaborative with Bright Beginnings, Early On, and Kentwood Public Schools, the district has housed a community playground that brings children of all abilities together in a general education setting. The new facility will allow for more opportunities to provide inclusive programming, Earle said.
Other features in the building will include small group rooms in the classroom for sensory needs and the community space will have garage doors that can be rolled up to provide students with outdoor activities.
“The building of this new early childhood center demonstrates Kentwood’s investment in intentionality as it relates to our youngest community members,” Earle said at the groundbreaking. “This center will be a place where children’s natural curiosity will be provoked, their sense of imagination broaden, and who they are culturally and linguistically will be nurtured.”
Construction is scheduled to start in November and be completed in either late 2023 or the beginning of 2024. Architect for the project is TowerPinkster with construction headed by Fritz Wahlfield Construction.
On Tuesday, Nov. 15, WKTV will be featuring live coverage of the U.S. Spacewalk to install an IROSA (ISS Rollout Solar Array) modification kit on the starboard truss on the International Space Station.
The Artemis 1 mission will be televised Nov. 15 by NASA. It will air on WKTV 26 Governement Channel on Comcast and AT&T U-verse 99 Government Channel 99. (Courtesy, NASA)
Coverage begins at 6:30 a.m. with the actual spacewalk scheduled to start at 8 a.m.
Following the spacewalk at 4 p.m., there will be live coverage of the cryogenic fueling of the Space Launch System for launch on the Artemis 1 mission.
Artemis 1 is the first integrated flight test of NASA’s Space Launch System rocket, an un-crewed Orion spacecraft, and the ground systems at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida that will pave the way for a crewed test flight and future human lunar exploration.
The live coverage continues at 11 p.m. with the launch of the Space Launch System and the Orion spacecraft on the Artemis 1 mission. The actual launch is scheduled 1:04 a.m. with the post launch news conference tentatively scheduled for 4 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16.
Stay tuned for the Artemis/Orion outbound trajectory correction burn scheduled at 7:51 a.m., with the first imagery coverage starting at 10 a.m.
For more information on NASA TV or the International Space Station, log on to www.nasa.gov.
NASA TV can be seen on the WKTV 26 Government Channel on Comcast and AT&T U-verse 99 Government Channel 99.
Designed to spark a love of science and biology in children, the new Kentwood Parks and Recreation Outdoor Explorers program offers a nature-focused curriculum.
Basic survival skills, plant identification, campfire safety and cooking are just some of the activities taught in the program.
“Our goal is to get kids outside and exploring nature,” said Cassie Wielard, Outdoor Explorers program leader.
Outdoor Explorers Leader Cassie Wielard prepares the group for their adventure in Covenant Park. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
Designed for children ages 6-12, the Outdoor Explorers meet Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. primarily within Covenant Park. The program offers many of the same skills and experiences kids may find through a scouting program, but with much greater flexibility.
Focused on the five senses
Outdoor Explorers often focuses on the five senses, encouraging participants to investigate various textures of plants and other aspects of their surroundings through touch, exploring scent as they smell flowers and campfire smoke, and tasting s’mores and other treats.
Leader Cassie Wielard shows the Explorers goldenrod on a walk in Covenant Park. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
The purpose, Wielard said, is to give children “experiences that maybe not every kid gets to have outside in nature.”
Along with experiencing nature, instilling a respect for the environment also is a central principal of Outdoor Explorers.
“This feels like an extension of things that I love to do, and it’s been really fun,” said Wielard, who has a background in elementary education.
Covenant Park has three color-coded trails located just outside the clubhouse, each offering approximately one mile of natural space to explore. The park also offers an optional “Hide and Seek” activity for each trail along with maps to help guide explorers.
Rain, no worries
Less than ideal weather doesn’t hinder the young explorers from trekking through the park.
If a planned activity is not possible due to weather, Wielard and her volunteers easily improvise and ensure explorers are still learning and having fun.
“Last week it was raining, so s’mores were microwaved,” Wielard said.
Outdoor Explorer Kristofer shows off a bat he made with sticks and bark. (WKTV/Deborah Reed)
Simple crafts offered during each class highlight animals and other aspects of the environment. From building bird feeders, to creating owls and bats out of sticks and bark, participants are treated to a lesson about animals and the natural materials used in their creations.
Looking for winter Explorers
Even though the fall Explorers program has wrapped up, plans are already in motion for a winter session with dates and activities in development stages.
“We are hoping to explore Covenant Park in all the seasons,” Wielard said. “Signs of nature (such as animal tracks) should be obvious with snow on the ground. And, of course, snow opens up a lot of opportunities for activities.”
The winter session is seeking participants for early 2023. To find out more about the program and its benefits, contact the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department.
D. A. (Deborah) Reed is an award-winning author of young adult novels and a creative writing instructor from the Grand Rapids area. To find out more about D.A. Reed, visit her website: D.A. Reed Author
Artist Margaret Vega’s ofrenda for her father, Francisco Vega. (WKTV/Renee Karadsheh)
Veronica Quintino-Aranda’s brother died before her younger sister was born yet her sister has a connection to him because of the family’s tradition of honoring the brother’s memory during Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos).
“We remember who he was,” said Quintino-Aranda, a member of the Latino Community Coalition which has collaborated with the Grand Rapids Public Museum on a Day of the Dead exhibit. “We share stories. We share memories. We share his favorite food.
“Even though my sister has never meet him because he died before she was born, she still knows who he was and how important he was to our family.”
A tradition that dates back to the Mayans and Aztecs
Running through Nov. 27, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is featuring the Field Musuem’s “A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico.” Through 26 photographs, the exhibit explores the significance of the Day of the Dead celebrations in Oaxaca, a southern region of Mexico.
Traditionally observed on Nov. 1 and 2, Day of the Dead/Dia de los Muertos is an indigenous holiday that originated in southern Mexico and celebrates the remembrance of family members and friends who have died. Part of that celebration includes the creation of an ofrenda, or a home alter, honoring the deceased.
The tradition and symbols date back to the Mayans and Aztecs, who had a whole month dedicated to the dead, according to Quintino-Aranda. The expansion of catholicism in Mexico altered some of the symbols but the the focus on celebrating the dead remained.
Veronica Quintino-Aranda and Javier Cervantes (WKTV/Renee Karadsheh)
“On my home alter, and we have a catholic tradition, we have the candle that symbolizes we are the light of the world,” Quintino-Aranda said. “We have the arch toward heaven and incense that indicates that our prayers are going up to him. We also have soil that symbolizes that we are dust and are destained to return. We also have items that represent (my brother) and of course, his picture.”
Exploring local history and culture
Almost 600,000 Hispanics live in West Michigan with the Hispanic population making up about 16 percent, almost 16,000, in the Grand Rapids area. As the Hispanic community grew, many brought their traditions to the West Michigan area with the Day of the Dead having become a community celebration. In fact, the Grand Rapids Public Library for several years has hosted a Dia de los Muertos event (this year Oct. 30 – Nov. 3) that includes alters created by community members and activities.
The Latino Community Coalition’s Nuestra HERencia ofrenda. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Noting that the Grand Rapids Public Museum is not just about dinosaurs and artifacts but also history and culture, Dustin Tyler, director of marketing and customer service strategy for the Museum, said the Public Museum is excited to be able to partner with local organizations such as the LCC to present a Day of the Dead exhibition.
“Anytime we get the opportunity to include community partners to help paint a story, its a win for Grand Rapids, a win for the museum and a win for our members and visitors,” Tyler said.
The local connection
As part of the exhibition, the GRPM joined with community partners to add ofrendas to the exhibition display. Local professor and artist Margaret Vega created one display honoring her father Francisco Vega (1922-2021), who was a leader in the Latino community of West Michigan and a grassroots organizer for civil rights.
The LCC’s offenda focuses on the organizations Nuestra HERencia project, which honors the history and legacies of women here in Grand Rapids.
“It is an immersive experience,” Tyler said. “it is kind of a window into how another culture does things different but also learning about the history of Mr. Vega and learning about our partners over at the Latin Community Coalition and what their mission and purpose is.”
Started in 2006, the LLC serves as a unifying force for the equitable advancement of Latinos in West Michigan.
“I chose LCC because at the time I was working for the infant health program at Cherry Street Health and so I wanted to learn more about what are the resources out there to help my clients and patients and the LCC was a great opportunity for me to network and learn what programs and classes other nonprofits were offering so I could give back and give those resources to my community,” she said.
Celebrating ‘HER’
The Nuestra HERencia project features women who have not necessarily received awards or been recognized but because of their values that they instilled in their family members, they have helped the Hispanic community grow through business and leadership.
“My aunt, who passed away last year, she owned a small chain of bakeries,” said Javier Cervantes, another LCC member. “She instilled in us hard work and dedication. I saw how she treated everyone with respect. That is what I will not forget.
“Todos parejos — everyone is equal.”
For both Cervantes and Quintino-Aranda, they hope through the exhibition and the LCC display to help residents understand the symbolism and why Day of the Dead is important to the Hispanic community.
“I want people to know that we have a presence here in Grand Rapids and we are not going anywhere,” Cervantes said. “Those Latinos have been able to be trailblazers and in a unique way transform the lives of families as well.”
“A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico” is included with general admission to the Museum and is free for Museum members. Kent County residents do receive a discount and Kent County children 17 and under are free. To reverse tickets, visit grpm.org.
WKTV Contributor Renee Karadsheh contributed to this story.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
Happy Haunting from the WKTV Journal. (pxhere.com)
With Halloween being on a Monday, the annual spooky season should be adhering to a pretty traditional schedule this year.
Most communities will be observing the holiday on Monday with municipalities encouraging trick-or-treating activities to take place on that day. For times, most communities are encouraging from 6 to 8 p.m.
City of Kentwood, 6-8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31
City of Wyoming does not set trick-or-treating hours, but is encouraging residents and neighborhoods to do so on Monday, Oct. 31. Residents should check with neighborhoods for specific times.
City of Grandville, 6-8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31
City of Grand Rapids, dusk to 8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 31
Gaines Township, no designated time, Monday, Oct. 31
City of Grand Rapids, dusk to 8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 31
Byron Township, varies by neighborhood for date and time. Check with your neighborhood.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
As Halloween quickly approaches, some local organizations will be offering some Halloween fun that is designed to be spooky as well as family-friendly.
It’s the Monster Mash
The Salvation Army Kroc Center will be having a “graveyard smash” on Friday, Oct. 28, as it brings back its popular “Monster Mash” event. The program runs from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Kroc Center, located at 2500 S. Division Ave.
The free event features “trunk-or-treating” in the Kroc’s east parking lot which will include Kroc Center and other Salvation Army groups distributing candy and other information along with local businesses.
“Monster Mash is one of our biggest events of the year,” said Major Carol Huffman, senior officer for The Salvation Army Kroc Center. “We love giving families the opportunity to enjoy time together in a fun and safe environment, as well as showing our support for other neighborhood businesses and organizations. I’m not sure who is more excited the kids or our staff.”
While science suggest that outdoor events are generally safe, face coverings and social distancing are recommended for all participants. The event will be cancelled in the event of heavy rain or lightning.
With witches, mummies, and tricks and treats, the Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Company is ready to fill the Peter Martin Wege Theatre with the special Halloween weekend performance “Spooktacular.”
The Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Company presents “Spooktacular” Oct. 28-30. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)
“Spooktacular” takes place Oct. 28-30 at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre, 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m Saturday and Sunday.
Directed by Junior company Artistic Director Attila Mosolygo, the story follows a young girl on Halloween night as her only wish is to go trick-or-treating with her older sister and friends. When they refuse to let the young girl tag along, she embarks on a mischievous plan to get their candy. Audiences will be able to follow the adventure with appearances by skeletons, martians, Frankenstein, and even the “Addams Family.”
“It is exciting to be able to bring this Junior Company production back to the stage this Halloween.” Mosolygo said. “The students have been working hard over the past two months to bring the audience’s favorite Halloween characters to life. This entertaining ballet is perfect for the whole family and everyone is encouraged to attend in costume.”
Those who do attend in costume will be entered into a special drawing to win tickets to the Junior Company production of “The Wizard of Oz” in March.
Tickets are $20 and available at grballet.com, by phone at 616-454-4771, ext. 110, or in-peson at GRB’s Box Office at 341 Ellsworth Ave. SW.
Wyoming’s Demon Robotics and East Kentwood’s Storm Red battle during the Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition on Oct. 8. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
By Jodi Miesen WKTV Contributor
It was an intense battle for bragging rights for two local all-girls high school robotics teams that took part in a competition that focused on their abilities in a very male-dominated field.
The 2022 Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition was held at Wyoming High School over the weekend. Most high school robotics teams are co-ed but for this unique annual STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) event, only the girls were allowed to compete. GRGRC event coordinator Mallorie Edwards said the event was founded in 2016, by Wyoming High School teacher Richard Budden. Budden taught STEM and noticed female students were not as interested in it.
Edwards, who has been with the organization since 2017, said she’s passionate about the organization’s mission and was excited GRGRC could bring the competition back this year. This is the first time they’ve been able to hold the all-day event since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Turnout was lower this year than in the past with only 14 teams. The event is capped at 24 teams.
“I am hoping to grow the numbers that participate in the competition next year,” Edwards said. “A challenge I heard from many coaches that I reached out to was that they didn’t have enough girls on the team to compete. That is the exact reason why we are doing this event. To show girls that they can do these roles, be successful, and have fun.”
The key to success: the willingness to learn
The event drew robotics teams from high schools all over the state with two local teams, Red Storm (Team 3875) from East Kentwood High School and Demon Robotics (Team 858) from Wyoming High School.
Team Captain Abby Strait from Wyoming High School’s The Demons, stands next to the team’s robot. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
Through out the competition, teams form alliances with other teams to battled in complex two-minute games against other alliances. This all done with robots that the students have built and program. Wyoming’s The Demons and East Kentwood’s Red Storm ended up being on the same alliance and were fierce competitors, losing by just two points.
“You can do it! You don’t have to be super smart to be in robotics, you just have to be willing to learn,” said Abby Strait, a Wyoming High School senior and team captain. “Your team will teach you all that you need to know.”
Strait, who has been on robotics teams since 8th grade, was excited that her school was hosting an event that promotes girls to pursue science and math fields. She said she felt that far too often girls shy away from robotics thinking it will be too hard, but she hopes events like this will draw more female interest.
“I’m hoping to go to college for some sort of engineering, something really hands on, as opposed to just math behind the desk,” Strait said as she reflected on what career she might want to pursue in the future. “But this has definitely made me more interested in the STEM career field.”
Taking STEM by storm
Red Storm team captain Sarah Shapin, a senior at East Kentwood High School, is in her seventh year participating in the robotics program. Shapin said she started in middle school and plans to continue her interest in the STEM field in the future.
Team Captain Sarah Chapin from East Kentwood’s Red Storm stands by her team’s robot and displays the logo she designed for this year’s event. Casa Calvo Marketing designed the t-shirt. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
Shapin she too believes that women are under-represented in this area but said events like this can help bridge that gap.
“A lot of times women are on it,” Shapin said as she relayed an analogy told to her by her mentor. “And then a guy kind of takes a screwdriver out of her hands and doesn’t give it back. So, it’s not necessarily that women are blocked from it. However, it’s very male-dominated and so therefore, giving this opportunity like this competition allows for women to really get in there, get involved and push through.”
Shapin said she hopes to attend Michigan State University, double majoring in computer science and music. Her goal is to be a software engineer and continue playing the clarinet.
Breaking the stereotypes
According to Edwards, all that hard work pays off on competition day after seeing the students’ reactions and from the correspondence she receives after the event is over.
“The Grand Rapids Girls Robotics Competition is important to me, because of the letters I receive after the competition; expressing how happy they were to be able to participate in a role that usually a male teammate would be in,“ Edwards said. “And also, during the competition, I get to see the excitement exude from these kids. They love what they’re doing! They love STEM!”
The competition also featured a panel of guest speakers, “Ladies in Tech,” made up of women successful in the STEM fields.
Wyoming Team Captain Abby Strait gets help moving the Demons’ robot off the field. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)The alliance of the Wyoming, East Kentwood, and Marysville teams gathers before the final competition. (WKTV/Jodi Miesen)
Community members are invited to enjoy some spooky Halloween fun at the City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 22.
The free event takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE, where more than 25 City and community vehicles will be stationed with decorated trunks filled with treats.
(Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
In addition to collecting candy, participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk. Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and bring their own bag for collecting candy.
“Trunk or Treat provides a more controlled trick-or-treating environment while also giving local organizations and leaders a chance to connect with residents,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “We’re looking forward to enjoying some family fun and seeing many community members in costumes and creative trunk designs at this year’s event.”
Local businesses and community groups wishing to participate in Trunk or Treat can register for free online until 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14. More information and volunteer sign-up can be found at kentwood.us/TrunkOrTreat
The Wyoming Trick or Treat Trail will be taking place this Saturday at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. The event runs from 4 – 6 p.m.
Reservations are not required. Costumes are encouraged. Area businesses will be handing out candy at various stations along the trail. It is estimated that about 2,500 people will attend the annual event.
“It takes a village to make this possible and we are very grateful for our sponsors and volunteers,” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, the city’s director of community service.
The band plays in unison as it marks its way through a staccato, ascending theme while their director guides them down a path, all the while envisioning the pinnacle of auto racing: Formula 1.
The piece titled “F-1” may not move as fast as the race cars, but the feel of the music portrays the sense of anticipation when played by the Cross Creek Charter Academy symphonic band, directed by David Steketee.
Check out the Cross Creek symphonic band performing “F-1” by clicking here.
Commissioned by Steketee for the school’s 25th anniversary, the song begins with the entire band building anticipation for the coming percussion breaks. Trumpets and woodwinds then pair for climbing runs, preparing for the song’s melody. It’s a noble and celebratory piece of music that promotes feelings of pride and security – themes held strongly by the school.
David Steketee directs the Cross Creek symphonic band. (Courtesy, Cross Creek Academy/National Heritage Academies)
“It’s the 25th anniversary, so I wanted to do something that’s unique,” Steketee said. “Commissions are done a lot but they’re expensive, so it’s not done often by any one school, so this is our one and only for a while.”
Composer Randall Standridge was hired to write the piece to fit the instrumentation and ability levels of the seventh/eighth grade symphonic band. The band debuted the piece during a performance in May. The $3,000 cost for the composition was quickly covered with a fundraising effort by school supporters.
“I was excited, our whole administration was excited, the Cross Creek family was excited, it was great,” Steketee said.
Band students experienced challenges because of COVID-19, not being able to play as freely due to most instruments requiring breath to make sounds. Steketee said the song provides a lot of room for his students to play together, which helps with their comfort levels.
“Anytime where they’re playing by themselves, the kids don’t like it so much,” he said. “COVID has really brought our ability level down, so when the music is fast and full instrumentation, it’s much better for their confidence.”
Being able to direct students through the song proved to be a joy for Steketee and being part of something that will live on into Cross Creek’s future adds to the director’s sense of pride.
“I just wanted to do something cool and having our name on the masthead of that piece is pretty rad,” he said. “It’ll be there forever.”
Cross Creek Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Byron Center, serving students in Young 5s through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes 98 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12thgrade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
The “Chrysanthemums & More!” exhibit will feature a number of displays highlighting fall colors. (Photo by Johnny Quirin)
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park will host the annual fall horticulture exhibition, Chrysanthemums & More!, Sept. 16 – Oct. 30.
A perennial favorite and the largest of its kind in Michigan, this annual fall exhibition spans thousands of blossoms across 158 sprawling acres. Chrysanthemums & More! will surprise and delight, with a focus on abundant autumn plantings arranged in intriguing and uncommon color combinations.
Both artful and natural, the palette of vivid complementary colors and subtle tone-on-tone pairings —bringing awareness to texture and shape—is sure to pique your interest and catch your eye. As you explore the gardens and grounds, indoors and out, take time to enjoy all the rich and striking detail of this year’s exhibition theme: Unexpected Color.
Plentiful plantings in the Grand Entry Garden, Welcome Center, and Gunberg and BISSELL Corridors showcase the chrysanthemum through the artistry of many designers, among them Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park horticulture staff.
In the BISSELL Corridor, a different local floral designer each week will create a singular arrangement highlighting the chrysanthemum as its primary element. Local florists include Hyssop Floral, Horrocks Market, Overgrowth Floral, Kennedy’s Flowers & Gifts, Dahlia Acres Farms, and Eastern Floral.
Of equal note are stunning displays in the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse, Earl & Donnalee Holton Victorian Garden Parlor, and Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, each lush and lovely.
Outdoors, treat your senses with a trek into the crisp fall air. Venture onto the Stuart and Barbara Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden, with its seasonal wetland views, then make your way to the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden and its cornucopia of chrysanthemums, intermingled with nontraditional autumn plantings to form a quilt-like tapestry. Continue to Michigan’s Farm Garden, where the abundant autumn harvest boasts heirloom vegetables, herbs, gourds and larger-than-life pumpkins. This example of a working 1930s family farm occasionally provides some of its more than 40 varieties of produce for our James & Shirley Balk Café.
The Glow Garden will be Sept. 20 and 27 and Oct. 4. (Supplied)
This exhibition is truly a feast for the eyes, displaying the unexpected color combinations of the magnificent mum—and more!
“This year we are exploring the beauty of Unexpected Color,” said Steve LaWarre, Vice President of Horticulture. “We hope that guests will notice the rich palette and striking details of unique and unexpected combinations of color throughout our grounds, inside and out.”
Activities throughout the exhibition, including Tuesdays at the Farm, Glow Garden and Hallowee-Ones, are full of family fun.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) will be part of the 18th annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day on Saturday, Sept. 17. The initiative invites museums across the United States to open their doors for free to those who download an official Museum Day ticket.
The annual event allows museums, zoos, and cultural centers from all 50 states to emulate the spirit of the Smithsonian Institution’s Washington, D.C.-based facilities, which offer free admission every day. This year’s event is sponsored by The Quaker Oats Company and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Participants must download free Museum Day tickets to receive free general admission to the GRPM. Museum Day tickets are available for download at Smithsonian.com/museumday. Visitors who present a Museum Day ticket will gain free entrance for two at participating venues on Sept. 17 only. One ticket is permitted per email address.
Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day goes beyond getting visitors through museum doors across the country—it acts as a springboard to empower and help advance the hopes and ambitions of the public, particularly school-aged children and those in underrepresented communities. It represents a national commitment to access, equity and inclusion. This year’s theme, The American Experience, shines a spotlight on wonderful arts, culture, sciences, innovation, and history exhibits throughout the nation.
On Saturday, Sept. 17, Museum goers to the GRPM can explore three floors of core exhibits focused on history, science, and culture, along with the GRPM’s newest traveling exhibit, A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico, as part of their admission.
Other Michigan museums that will be participating in the Smithsonian Museum Day are Little Traverse Historical Museum in Petoskey; Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven; Midwest Miniatures Museum in Grand Haven; Plymouth Historical Museum in Plymouth; and Rochester Hills Museum in Van Hoosen Farm in Rochester.
Kent District Library, Schuler Books and two other libraries from across Michigan announce the eleventh annual Write Michigan Short Story Contest, which drew almost 1,200 entries last year.
Michigan writers of all ages are invited to enter, with separate categories for youth, teens and adults. Writers can enter in either English or Spanish. Winning entries will be published and receive cash prizes.
“So many writers have the goal of getting their story published, and Write Michigan gives them that opportunity,” said Katie Zuidema, marketing communications specialist at KDL. “Not only do writers have the chance to win $500, but their story could also be available to the masses in a bookstore and on library shelves across the state.”
Laying Out the Rules
Stories can be submitted at writemichigan.org through Wednesday, Nov.30. Details include a 3,000-word maximum length; $10 entry fee for ages 18 and above, free for 17 and under; current Michigan residents only; all entries must be submitted online.
There will be four cash prizes given in each of the three categories ― Judges’ Choice ($500), Spanish Language ($500), Readers’ Choice ($250) and Judges’ Choice Runner-up ($250). The top ten stories in each category will be reviewed by a panel of judges comprised of published authors, editors, professors and literary agents. A public vote will determine the winners of Readers’ Choice.
Winners will be honored during an awards ceremony in April and their story will be published in an anthology by Chapbook Press. Author Caitlin Horrocks as the Write Michigan keynote author for 2023.
Those who enjoy reading stories are encouraged to sign up to be a volunteer story reviewer at writemichigan.org/volunteer.
Getting Inspired
Traverse Area District Library and Canton Public Library are partners this year and will work to attract writers and volunteers from their part of Michigan.
New this year is a community of writers online through Facebook (facebook.com/WriteMichigan) and Instagram (@write.michigan). Also Kent District Library is offering a programming series geared towards writers and aspiring writers, covering topics like getting published, the art of description and developing strong characters. For more details, including dates, times and locations, visit writemichigan.org/writers-conference.
Robinette’s is home of the Big Apple, which has been on the farm since 1973, nearly 50 years. Many of the apple orchard’s guests take pictures with the iconic, nine-foot apple located in the picnic area.
The corn maze opens sep. 6 and will run through Nov. 6. Maze tickets are $9 per person with children 2 and under free. Hours for the maze are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
The 125-acre Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery was purchased by Edward Robinette in 1911, when he found the farm while he was visiting a friend in Grand Rapids. When he purchased it, the farm was solely a fruit tree farm made of apples, peaches and Cherries.
The farm still maintains these fruit trees, but has started expanding in 1971 with the cider mill, followed by donuts in 1972 and the Apple Haus in 1973. The gift barn came in 1985, and the winery was opened in 2006. Other additions have included pies, lunches, and more added every year.
Robinette’s is now open year round. For hours, activities and more information, visit www.robinettes.com
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The giant orange spider on Gezon Park’s new splash pad. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
The all most 13-foot orange spider towers over its domain at Gezon Park. But this spider isn’t looking to weave a web of terror, but rather create some fun play with its water spouts.
The spider is the signature element to the park’s new splash pad which will be officially opened at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 27. The splash pad and spider are part of the phase three development of Gezon Park which also included new restrooms, a new shelter, and walking and biking paths as well as the city’s first bike fix-it station. Saturday’s event will feature free frisbee and beachball giveaways, as supplies last, and ice cream.
“We always want each park to have a brand new feature,” said Community Services Director Rebecca Rynbrandt, who noted that for Gezon Park it is the splash pad with its friendly spider.
“The splash pad is designed to be universally accessible so people of all abilities will be able to enjoy the pad,” Rynbrandt said. This is the city’s fifth universally accessible splash pad with the other four located at Jackson Park, Lamar Park, Southlawn Park, and Oriole Park.
Being responsive to the community
The 94-acre park has remained largely undeveloped. To the north is a playground and basketball court and in the southwest area are athletic fields. Because the park already has a playground, and Frog Hollow, which is city’s most used park, is less than a quarter of a mile awhile, the new construction area does not include a playground.
This decision also played into the overall ideas and vision of the residents who helped to develop a master plan for the park that was approved in 2018.
“Our residents were very forthright that they wanted to maintain that very natural feel within Gezon Park,” Rynbrandt said. “This area is very big with our dog walkers. It is a natural respite to get away from the stress of their jobs.
The fix-it station is located along the bike/walking trail located near Gezon Park’s parking lot. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
“They enjoy the forested area. They enjoy the walking in nature. So prioritizing and retaining the prairie area was very, very important.”
The park also is the regional stormwater catch basin and has wetlands which all had to be taken into consideration when it came to design. It also serves as the emergency release area for the pumping station which is located west of the splash pad.
“It you come here, you are going to be impressed,” Rynbrandt said. “I am confident you are going to be impressed with the splash pad, the shade structures, our new shelter and our new restroom.”
Meeting the needs of a growing community
The construction cost for the project was $2.6 million, which does not include the design phase. Funding was made possible through the dedicated Library and Parks Maintenance millage and the dedicated Parks and Recreation Operational milage.
The panhandle, which is the southern portion of the city and where Gezon Park is located, is one of the fastest growing areas in the city. The city now has more than 76,000 residents, many of the newer residents are now living in the panhandle region, according to Rynbrandt. Considering the growth, the need for a splash pad in the area was identified by residents through the planning phase.
As for when residents will be able to rent the shelter at Gezon Park as well as shelters at the city’s other parks, Rynbrandt said the Parks and Recreation Department will start taking reservations on Dec. 1.
For those attending Saturday’s event, it is recommended that you arrive early as attendance is expected to be high.
For more information on the city’s parks and Parks and Recreation programs, visit www.wyomingmi.gov.
A vehicle that once showcased the future of cars and technology will be just one of several to be featured at a special 75th celebration event at the Wyoming GM-Components Holdings LLC located at 2100 Burlingame Ave. SW.
Joining forces with the 17th annual 28th Street Metro Cruise, the GM plant decided to host its 75th celebration in conjunction with the annual event. Signs will help direct Metro Cruise participants to the plant which has a day packed with activities.
Of course, one of those activities will be a car show featuring the Futurliner No. 10, a red-and-white bus that is part of the collection of the National Automotive and Truck Museum, which is based in Auburn, Indiana. The Futurliners, there was 12 at onetime, were first manufactured as part of the 1939 New York World’s Fair and later featured in GM;s Parade Progress, a promotional caravan traveling a 150-stop route across the United States and Canada.
The vehicles were in operation up until the mid-1950s and served in other capacities after that. In the case of the Futurliner No. 10, which is only one of nine known to be in existence, it was sold to Detroit’s Goebel Brewing company, and was renamed the “Goebel Land Cruiser.”
Also at the show will be the GM Pride car, which is a custom Cadillac CT5 that features a wrap of the Pride colors. The car was featured this year at the 50th anniversary of the Detroit Pride Parade.
There also will be a display of GM’s Journey to Zero Emissions featuring a few of the company’s electric cars.
Starting at noon, visitors will have the opportunity to head inside the plant for tours along with demonstrations from five local robotic teams, all of which are sponsored by GM, and a robotic demonstration by the plant’s engineering team that will be handing out some sweet treats.
In addition to the tours, the plant will also be holding a Jobs Fair. Any one interested in exploring employment at the plant can check in at the Security window in the lobby. You will be directed to the on-site Human Resource representatives who will help you through the application process.
Rounding out the day’s activities will be food trucks, children’s activities, other GM displays, and John Ball Zoo programs.
While the GM Corporate Giving has presented it’s grant awards each year at the Metro Cruise (and will again at the Rogers Plaza stage on Saturday morning), this is the first year GM has been the official headline sponsor. A company representative said this is “definitely very exciting and should be a great time. We are thrilled to be able to invite the community in.”
