Category Archives: Our Cities

Wyoming’s New ‘Sinking Fund’ Will Keep School Infrastructure Afloat

November 12, 2015Area Education, Education, Hard News, Our CitiesInfrastructure upgrades, Mike DeWitt, November 3 election, Sinking Fund, Wyoming Public Schools, Wyoming Superintendent Tom ReederJoanne

On election day, the Wyoming Public School District was hopeful the citizens of Wyoming would vote to pass the funding request. The request was for a sinking fund, a shorter, smaller stream of money that acts differently from a bond issue.

“It was very hard to get a read on the way the public felt. It was very quiet,” explained Superintendent Tom Reeder. “We tried to be as informative as possible over social media and school news letters.”

The sinking fund request was passed by a vote of 1,445 to 978 and won every precinct.

The new funding will raise over $400,000 per year with little, if any, increase to the Wyoming tax payers. The sinking fund will help pay for infrastructure updates until the next bond proposal between the 2021/22 and 2022/23 school year. By that time, the District’s millages will be down to zero. Much like paying off a house mortgage.

How is a sinking fund different from a bond issue? Well, for starters, a sinking fund is for a much shorter period of time. On top of the duration, a sinking fund provides a little bit of money at a time instead of it all upfront. With a sinking fund, no debt needs to be repaid because a smaller amount of money is being brought in to pay for numerous projects. With a bond issue, the millages passed off to the taxpayer pay off the debt for the large lump sum taken upfront.

On the whole, sinking funds are more economical for smaller projects because there is no interest paid on the projects; you pay as you go.

Now that we’ve covered the jargon on the difference between a sinking fund and a bond, it’s time to talk about the real meat of what was voted on – where is the money going?

Quick answer, it’s going towards small projects that need repair on a schedule. Things like roofs, parking lots, and mechanical equipment.

Longer – more detailed – answer, it’s going towards safety and security, efficiency, and infrastructure tune-ups district wide. The breakdown is below.

Replace and Re-key Doors: Doors are rusted and multiple keys are needed in one building. Re-keying allows for a master-key allowing access to multiple school buildings.

Emergency Lighting: Emergency lighting systems are outdated and need to be upgraded for increased safety in the event of an emergency or loss of power.

Upgrade heating and cooling units: Current system runs at high output all the time.

Install High Efficiency Heating System: New web-based control unit updated system will help with energy savings by allowing the heating system to run at lower output during mild weather.

Exterior Lights: Provide better nighttime lighting for after school events.

Remodel Student bathrooms: Replace bathroom fixtures with energy-efficient fixtures and use low maintenance materials to reduce cleaning times and extend useful life.

Replace or Repair Roofs: Building roofs are past their 20-year useful lives. Recent inspections indicate that future leaks are only a matter of time.

Parking Lots: Lots are in need of resurfacing. Parking lot capacity would be increased to ease congestion of drop-off and pick-up areas.

Superintendent Reeder was very thankful to the public and adamant that the funds were needed, “We are very thankful to the public and we will stay transparent with where the money is going. Our buildings are 50 years old. They may look nice on the outside, but issues are starting to present themselves and they need to be fixed.”

Explore the Reynold Weidenaar Retrospective, now through Jan. 17

November 12, 2015Education, Local Entertainment, Local History, Our Cities, Upcoming Eventsmezzotint, weinenaarJoanne

If you’ve not heard of Reynold Weidenaar, perhaps you can be forgiven, but if you miss this retrospective exhibition of the Grand Rapids native’s oil paintings, prints, and watercolors, you’re only cheating yourself.

Three local cultural organizations–Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM), Calvin College, and Kendall College of Art and Design (KCAD)–have joined forces to orchestrate this extensive exhibition that celebrates the 100th anniversary of Weidenaar’s birth. Along with GRAM’s retrospective are exhibitions at KCAD at Ferris State University and Calvin College’s Center Art Gallery. KCAD provides an overview of the artist’s work in drawing and watercolor. Calvin’s exhibition investigates the artist’s working methods, including several states of individual prints.

The 100th birthday celebration began in spring of 2015 with Through the Eyes of Weidenaar, an exhibition at the Grand Rapids Public Museum which focused on his self-styled role of community chronicler. Nationally recognized, Weidenaar (1915-1985) had a noteworthy career, and he is one of West Michigan’s most talented and renowned artists. He studied at the Kendall School of Design, Grand Rapids and the Kansas City Art Institute. He received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1944 and traveled through Mexico creating gorgeous images in mezzotint.

With roots in 20th-century American Regionalism–a movement dedicated to representing rural and small town life–Weidenaar’s work is timeless, depicting West Michigan through a historical context and singularly personal perspective. His deep familiarity with the region’s places and people allowed him to mine a wealth of subject matter.

Restlessly creative and ambitious, Weidenaar continually worked to hone his skills and master new artistic techniques. Known for his technical virtuosity as draftsman and printmaker, he became successful in the 1940s exhibiting and selling his etchings. He began creating mezzotint prints in the 1950s, even though the technique was not widely practiced at the time. Especially well received, his work in mezzotint fostered a resurgence of awareness and appreciation of this distinctive method of printmaking.

In 1954 he took up watercolor painting, and in only ten years, he had created 1,300 watercolors of West Michigan subjects–enchanting landscapes and industrial scenes that pulsed with life. After mastering etching, mezzotint, and watercolor, Weidenaar began to paint in oil and explored the processes of the Flemish and Dutch Old Masters.

When scrutinizing Weidenaar’s work, take notice of the intricate detail with which he created his works. His works can be very dramatic, at times satirical–or eerie with a mystical quality–but they are always intriguing and never dull. There’s much more than meets the eye: Familiar West Michigan cityscapes and landscapes will be apparent, and you’ll want to get up close to appreciate the idiosyncratic and sometimes off-color (so to speak) sense of humor depicted in his work.

Don’t just take our word for it; experience it for yourself. Go forth, and discover the wonders of Weidenaar.

School Welcomes Families to Celebrate After-School Programs

November 10, 2015Area Education, Education, Our CitiesErin Albanese, Godfrey-Lee, School News Network, Team 21Joanne

First-grader Mia Porter smiles for a photo

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

The lights were on at the Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center and Spiderman and Batman were in the building.

The district’s after-school program, TEAM 21, recently welcomed families and students for a night of games, superhero-mask decorating and Halloween cookie munching during “Lights On After-School.”

About 7,500 after-school programs participated in the annual nationwide event. It was started in 2000 by the Washington D.C.-based nonprofit organization Afterschool Alliance, which promotes keeping the doors open after school to offer academic help and recreation for students.

Sixth-grader Jasmin Landero said TEAM 21 is a great place to stay busy after school

Godfrey-Lee TEAM 21 coordinators put their own twist on the evening, inviting families by “Calling All Superheroes” to the event. Sixth-graders led games in the hallways for youngsters, some dressed in costumes. Families ate dinner provided by the school and took photos with their favorite caped crusaders.

“The whole point of the event is to showcase that we are here to help with the kids,” said Brittani Stickler, TEAM 21 site coordinator for the Godfrey-Lee ECC.

While the evening was focused on fun, TEAM 21 offers homework help and enrichment activities after school Monday through Thursday, plus summer programming. “We target at-risk kids and those who need the most academic help,” Stickler said. “It’s been a super help for parents.”

Team 21 is run through a partnership between the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department and Godfrey-Lee, Wyoming, Godwin Heights and Kelloggsville Public Schools, with 15 schools offering programs for students ranging from kindergarten to ninth grade.

Godfrey-Lee is a high-poverty district with a large percentage of English-language learners. Many parents work in the evening and aren’t able to provide homework help, district officials said.

Sixth-grader David Arellano poses with Godfrey-Lee Rebel mascot

Ramona Maleka Freeman came to the event with her five children, two of whom regularly attend TEAM 21. “I like the way they help out with homework and spend a lot of time loving and caring for the kids. I like that it’s a positive program and the kids aren’t out learning negative things.”

Sixth-grader Jasmin Landero spread orange frosting on a cookie. “TEAM 21, to me, is not just a school thing. We get school stuff done, but we really have fun.”

Need for After-school Programs by the Numbers

•   19.4 million kids would participate in an after-school program if one were available to them.
•   11.3 million kids are on their own in the hours after school.
•   23 million parents of school-age children work outside of the home full time.
•   An analysis of 68 after-school studies found that students participating in high-quality after-school programs went to school more, behaved better, received better grades and performed better on tests compared to non-participants.
•   A study of outcomes associated with participation in after-school programs found that students who regularly participate during elementary school showed a variety of gains, including narrowing the math achievement gap at grade five between high-income and low-income students; improving work habits and self-efficiency; and reducing absences.

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

New Bond will help KPS Students Compete in a Global Economy

November 10, 2015Area Education, Education, Our Cities, PoliticsBond, Kentwood, Kentwood Public Schools, millageJoanne

When voters initially voted down a $64.86 million bond proposal back in May (by only 353 votes), the Kentwood School District asked for feedback from the community and learned that voters did not understand all of the bond’s components. After clarifying the projects the bond would fund—building, security, and technology upgrades and improvements—the new bond was placed back on the November ballot and passed by a vote count of 3,125 to 2,108 on Nov. 3.

“Our community has considered this opportunity with a great deal of care and interest, and has responded in support of our students, families and the broader community as partners in supporting excellence in education,” said Michael Zoerhoff, Superintendent Kentwood Public Schools. “Kentwood has always been a district built on fiscal responsibility, demonstrating prudent management of public funds. We are committed to continue to exercise this same responsibility with the funds generated by this proposal.”

The district has about 8,800 students.

If you live in Kentwood and own a $100,000-dollar home, the bond will cost you about 72 cents per week (an increase from 3.5 mills to 4.25 mills). Here’s where your money will be spent to help students to compete in a global society:

Technology (25% of bond)

New computers and devices to replace outdated technology.
Upgrades to the District’s network infrastructure and modernizations at each school location to support and serve more wireless technology.
Remodeled media centers with technology updates.
Flexible Collaboration Center spaces focusing on state-of-the-art technology and large group instruction throughout the District.

Safety and Security (27% of bond)

Updated building-wide communications systems.
Gradual replacement of aging school buses. The district currently has a fleet of 43 buses, but only 38 are operational.
Updated playgrounds to meet current safety standards.
Remodeled school entryways to provide a friendly lobby and limited access to students and classrooms.
Enhanced security measures in all schools, including remote-access cameras and ID monitoring.
Improved, safer pedestrian and vehicle traffic to and from the Kentwood facilities.
Upgrades to plumbing, mechanical, electrical and building systems to extend their useful life and improve operational efficiency.
Collaborative, multi-purpose learning centers to support 21^st-century education practices.
Replacement of aged doors and windows to improve building efficiency.
Updated building finishes with new carpet, ceilings and furniture.
Improved and expanded parking lots and paved areas.
Renovated elementary school media centers, including new technology and furniture.

Operational Efficiency and Building Renovations (48% of bond)

Upgrades to plumbing, mechanical, electrical and building systems to extend their useful life and improve operational efficiency.
Replacement of aged doors and windows to improve building efficiency.
Updated building finishes with new carpet, ceilings and furniture.
Improved and expanded parking lots and paved areas.
Renovated elementary school media centers, including new technology and furniture.
Collaborative, multi-purpose learning centers to support 21^st-century education practices.

“The Kentwood Public Schools remains committed to providing an education of excellence to every child that we serve,” said Zoerhoff. “Each teacher and staff member at KPS seeks to partner with our families to ensure that positive relationships are developing within the school environment and that high expectations are reflected in the arts, athletics, and within each of our academic programs.”

Specific building project listings and renderings for each school are on display at on the KPS website.

More information can be found on the Facebook pages for Kentwood Public Schools and Kentwood Friends for Education.

Images courtesy of Kentwood Public Schools Facebook page

Get into the Spirits During Cocktail Week GR Nov. 11-22

November 9, 2015Beer, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Our Cities, Upcoming Eventscocktail culture, cocktail week, cocktails, spiritsJoanne

Sip local! Join the fun as Michigan’s creative beverage capital celebrates the art of the craft cocktail.

The first-ever Cocktail Week GR toasts Michigan craft spirits from Nov. 11-22 with participating local restaurants offering two Michigan cocktails and a shared-plate appetizer for $25 or less. Also available are menu items paired with Michigan-distilled spirits.

“Cocktail culture has exploded right alongside beer enthusiasm here in Grand Rapids,” said Doug Small, President and CEO of Experience Grand Rapids. “Our area’s leading bartenders are using locally made artisanal spirits to enhance classic drinks and invent new ones. We are excited to celebrate this enthusiasm with the inaugural Cocktail Week GR.”

Get into the spirits (see what happened there?) with:

Pair and Share. Get two Michigan cocktails plus a shared-plate appetizer for $25 or less at participating bars and restaurants.

Daring Duos Dinners. Dine at local eateries pairing handcrafted distilled spirits with scrumptious local dishes.

Intoxicating Extras. Developed in collaboration with the Grand Rapids Cocktail Guild, stay tuned for a full schedule of cocktail events.

Developed in collaboration with the Grand Rapids Cocktail Guild, Experience Grand Rapids Cocktail Week GR coincides with additional celebrations of spirits at the annual Wine, Beer and Food Festival, taking place at DeVos Place Convention Center, November 19-22.

Cocktail Week GR events and happenings are updated regularly here. Participating restaurants and menus will be posted on November 4th with continued updates through Cocktail Week.

Reminder! Fall Yard Services Available to Wyoming Residents

November 6, 2015Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, Fall Yard cleaning, fall yard services, leaf removal, Wyoming, Yard services, Yard WasteJoanne

The City of Wyoming has several yard waste services available to help keep yards looking neat as leaves begin to fall.

The yard waste drop off-site at 2660 Burlingame S.W. is open to residents Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through December 12.

There is no limit on the size of branches or shrubs accepted at the site. However, residents must be able to unload the yard waste themselves. If yard waste materials are delivered in bags, totes or boxes, the containers must be removed from the facility.

Leaf removal containers are available through November 25. A container is delivered to a home and picked up the next business day for a delivery to the yard waste site. Containers are 11 feet long, 6 feet wide and 3 feet high, or 7.5 cubic yards. The cost of container delivery and rental is $10 for a weekday and $20 for a weekend. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance. Reservations can be made by phone with a credit card by calling 530-7260. Residents may also visit the office to pay with cash or a check.

A curb-side leaf pick up will be held on Saturday, December 5. Leaves must be in paper yard waste bags by 6 a.m. Saturday. There is no limit to the number of bags residents can put out. Branches that are tied together in bundles less than four feet long will also be picked up.

For more information, contact the Public Works Department at 530-7260.

Local Business Helps Feed the Hungry in West Michigan

November 6, 2015Local Business, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsEastbrook Auto Wash, Eastbrook Oil and Lube, Feeding America West Michigan, Fundraising, Hunger, Janice LimbaughJoanne

By: Janice Limbaugh

The owner of Eastbrook Auto Wash and Eastbrook Oil and Lube, Paul Coffman is dedicated to this community; most especially to those families in West Michigan who are going hungry.

“Everyone should be able to have food on the table not just during the holidays, but all days of the year,” Coffman says.

As a result, Eastbrook Auto Wash and Eastbrook Oil & Lube are holding a month-long food drive and fundraising event for Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank. Now through November 30, these businesses will be collecting canned, boxed and bagged food staples, toiletry staples, pet food supplies and monetary donations to help offset the fight against hunger in West Michigan. And yes, there is hunger in West Michigan.

Each year it is estimated that over 492,000 people receive food from Feeding America West Michigan. Since 1981 this charity has served families in 40 counties by distributing 1,100 hunger-relief agencies.

“To be able to support this charity during a time when having food on the table has such a strong advertising message, yet others have nothing for their table, is not lost on us,” says Coffman.

To support the cause, Coffman decided that customers who make monetary or supply donations to Feeding America West Michigan during business hours (Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) will receive discounted car washes and oil changes. Every dollar donated to Feeding America West Michigan will be multiplied by the food bank by 10, turning the donation into four meals for someone in need.

The most needed items for the food drive include: jars of peanut butter, canned beef stew, tuna, chicken, fish and meat, macaroni and cheese, rice, pasta, canned vegetables and fruits, beans of all kinds and toiletries.

For more information about the event, contact Jana Schrier at eastbrookautowash@gmail.com or visit www.eastbrookautowash.com.

Proposals Passed and Incumbents Stand Strong after Votes are Counted

November 4, 2015Hard News, Local Faces, Our Cities, PoliticsCity of Kentwood, Kentwood Public Schools, Local Elections, Michael Brown, Mike DeWitt, Robert Coughlin, Steven Redmond, Thomas Webb, William Wenzel, Wyoming Public SchoolsJoanne

By: Mike DeWitt

The results are in!

Kentwood and Wyoming residents visited the polls yesterday to cast their votes in the local elections and proposals. Between the two cities, there were two school district proposals and three city commission elections.

Kentwood

Commissioner At Large

Incumbent Commissioner-at-large Steven Redmond (appointed in March 2015) ran against Thomas Webb. Webb won the August primary by 46 votes, but both he and Redmond had to run again in November because neither candidate received more than 50 percent of the vote. This time, Redmond toppled Webb by winning 54 percent of the vote with a final tally of 2,147 to 1,855.

Commissioner (1st Ward)

Robert Coughlin ran for re-election against William Wenzel, and the voters decided to keep the incumbent in his chair. Coughlin won the race with 67 percent of the vote in a final tally of 1,293 to 637.

Commissioner (2nd Ward)

Michael Brown ran unopposed for his re-election. Brown pulled in all 1,715 votes.

Kentwood Public Schools

After voters initially said no to a $64.86 million bond proposal back in May (by only 353 votes), the Kentwood School District rededicated their efforts towards getting the word out on why the bond was needed. The new bond focused on building, security, and technology renovations and improvements. It was placed back on to the November ballot and passed by a vote count of 3,125 to 2,108.

Wyoming

Wyoming Public Schools

Voters in Wyoming voted to pass a building and site sinking fund for Wyoming Public Schools that will raise about $400,000 each year. The sinking fund will go to infrastructure repairs like roofs, parking lots, doors, windows, and boilers. The fund should get the district to 2021, then a millage can be proposed to renovate all the schools in the district.

State Games of America are Coming to Grand Rapids in 2017

November 3, 2015Area Education, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsState Games of America, State Games of Michigan, West Michigan Sports CommissionJoanne

Officials with the West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC) held a campaign kickoff party to premiere the 2017 State Games of America promotional video, Bring Your Game. The video – produced by Antix Creative – release marks the start of a national marketing campaign for the 2017 State Games of America that will be held in Grand Rapids, Mich. August 3-6, 2017.

Grand Rapids was selected by the National Congress of State Games (NCSG) to host the 2017 State Games of America. The NCSG board heard presentations from four cities vying to host the pinnacle of more than 30 individual state game competitions. In addition to Grand Rapids, competing cities included San Diego; Lincoln, NE; and Hampton Roads, VA.

“It was a tough decision by our board, as all cities proved their ability to successfully host these games,” stated Dan Duffy, President of the National Congress of State Games. “Ultimately, the board felt that Grand Rapids offered the most compelling bid based on their successful Meijer State Games of Michigan, quality venues and the many community and local sport partnerships involved in the bid.”

The WMSC, Experience Grand Rapids, and the Meijer State Games of Michigan partnered to bid on and host the State Games of America in 2017. The 2017 State Games of America is expected to bring $5.6 million in direct visitor spending to Grand Rapids.

“Our community continually supports public/private partnerships, which helped form the West Michigan Sports Commission and contributes to our success in promoting sports tourism,” stated Mike Guswiler, President of the WMSC. “This support is also reflected in the success of our Meijer State Games of Michigan. Due, in part, to the strength of the state-level event, the NCSG board trusted our ability to host a successful State Games of America in 2017.”

“I am very excited to begin planning for the 2017 State Games of America,” expressed Eric Engelbarts, Executive Director of the Meijer State Games of Michigan. “The growth and success of the Meijer State Games have prepared us to host these national games. I am thankful for the corporate and sport tournament committee support that have made our state games what they are. We will be ready to host the nation’s athletes in 2017.”

The State Games of America is an Olympic-style event featuring competition between State Games gold, silver and bronze medal winners from across the nation. Currently, 30 states conduct or organize statewide sports festivals known as State Games.

The national games are held biennially, with the 2017 games set for August 3-6. The 2015 State Games of America were held in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Gilda’s ‘LaughFest’ Preparing for 2016 Festival

November 3, 2015Community Health, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsFUNderwear Run, Gilda's Club Grand Rapids, Gilda's Club Laugh Fest, Gilda's LaughFest 2016, Gildas LaughFestJoanne

Gilda’s LaughFest, the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter, announced that they are now accepting sign ups for its Community Showcases, 5k FUNderwear Run, and LaughFest Friends memberships.

Individuals of all ages, and groups of all sizes, are encouraged to apply for the Community Showcases. During LaughFest 2015, officials hosted more than 100 community showcases and other free events at various locations in downtown Grand Rapids, Lowell, and Holland. The categories for these showcases included stand-up comedy, music, short-film, sketch/improv, dance, and kids’ jokes. Applicants chosen for the 2016 festival will be notified in January.

Runners, joggers and walkers interested in participating in the third annual 5k FUNderwear Run can sign up for the FUNderwear Run now! This walk/run will be held on Sunday, March 13 in downtown Grand Rapids and racers are encouraged to wear their finest (and funniest!) underwear over their running clothes to create a hilarious and one-of-a-kind moment in support of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. Registration is $30 prior to February 19, and $35 until the run on March 13. Registered participants will receive an official race t-shirt and finisher medal.

In addition to these events, LaughFest organizers also announced that LaughFest Friends memberships are now available. LaughFest Friends memberships give fans of LaughFest opportunities to connect with the festival year round, and are available for purchase online, at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids (1806 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504) or at LaughFest Central when it opens mid-February.

There are three levels of memberships available, starting at $25. Level one includes an exclusive tee shirt designed by The Mitten State, High Five button and donation, exclusive content and experiences, and early access to Fast Passes for free events. Fast Passes guarantee holders a seat for free showings as long as they are seated 15 minutes prior to the event start time.

The second level costs $50 and includes everything in the $25 level, plus a Mitten State Smile Decal, a 20 percent discount for merchandise at LaughFest Central and online, and a $5 off coupon for LaughFest Central for anyone who signs up before Thanksgiving.

The third membership level is $100 and includes all the items at the $25 and $50 levels, plus pre-sale opportunities to purchase ticket packages in December 2015 and individual tickets in January 2016 before the general public, and two VIP passes to Headliner’s Club at the BOB during the festival.

Designed to celebrate laughter for the health of it, LaughFest features free and ticketed events including stand-up, improv, film, authors, community showcases and a variety of seriously funny stuff. Past LaughFest headliners include Jay Leno, Lily Tomlin, Chris Tucker, Bill Cosby, Mike Birbiglia, Margaret Cho, Betty White, Whoopi Goldberg, Mike Epps, Rodney Carrington, Martin Short, Kevin Nealon, Wayne Brady, Jim Breuer, Joel McHale, Lewis Black, Brian Regan and Anjelah Johnson. An announcement regarding the 2016 festival headliners is expected later this year.

The sixth year of the festival is scheduled for March 10 through March 20, 2016.

Reserve Wine & Food Welcomes Josh Adams as Executive Chef

November 1, 2015Local Business, Local Faces, Local Food, Our CitiesDianna Higgs Stampfler, Grand Rapids, great lakes chef, Josh Adams, Midwest Chef, Promote Michigan, Pure Michigan, Reserve Wine and FoodJoanne

By: Dianna Higgs Stampfler

Michigan’s award-winning Reserve Wine & Food proudly welcomes Josh Adams as its new Executive Chef. The James Beard Awards Semi-Finalist comes from Peoria, Illinois where he owned and operated June Restaurant for five years.

Chef Adams started his culinary education early. At the age of ten, his mother enrolled him in his first cooking class and from then on, the kitchen beckoned. Adams cooked throughout his childhood with his mom and grandmother, who encouraged his creativity and curiosity. His mother—a poet and amateur photographer, and father—a successful businessman, both nurtured his innovative spirit and instilled a strong work ethic.

Adams recalls a pivotal turning point in his career. “I went to Charlie Trotter’s to celebrate my birthday and had the luxury of dining at the Chef’s Table in the kitchen. Witnessing a professional kitchen operate at such a high level—so seamlessly—changed my perspective on what it meant to be a chef, forever.” Before leaving, he spoke with Chef de Cuisine Matthias Merges. Recognizing the potential in Adams, Merges offered him an internship position, which Adams eagerly accepted.

Committed to a career as a chef, Adams attended both the French Culinary Institute as well as Illinois Central College’s culinary arts program. He supplemented his scholastic studies with several internships (Alinea, Revolver) and outfitted his home kitchen to professional grade to further his knowledge.

In 2007, Adams worked at Vie restaurant in suburban Chicago under Chef Paul Virant; a chef known for his farm-fresh approach. Along with Chef Virant and Chef Trotter, Adams recognizes Heston Blumenthal, Pierre Gagnaire, Alice Waters and Ferran Adria as major influencers in his career.

These mentors helped Adams to shape his style, one that is a unique blend of farm-direct and molecular gastronomy. Applying progressive techniques to pristine ingredients, Adams seeks to preserve and accentuate the natural properties of the ingredients through precision cooking.

“With the development of each dish, I take into consideration the aroma, taste, texture, temperature, color, shape and arrangement to bring about the best possible result for the customer,” he says.

With his passion for seasonal and locally-grown products firmly rooted, Adams left Chicago in the spring of 2008, returning to his hometown—an area surrounded mostly by farms—to open his progressive, farm-direct June Restaurant.

In addition to being named a James Beard Awards 2010 Rising Star Chef Semifinalist and 2012 Best Chef-Great Lakes Region Semifinalist, Chef Adams was awarded Food & Wine Magazine’s 2013 “People’s Choice Best New Chef-Great Lakes Region,” was among Reuters’ “World Chefs,” and was one of Mother Nature Network’s “40 Chefs Under 40.”

June Restaurant was recognized in 2009 by the Wall Street Journal as a “Best New Restaurant-Heartland Region,” ManMade.com’s 2010 “10 Best Restaurants-Midwest,” Bon Appetit Magazine’s “Top 10 New Romantic Getaways,” NBC Chicago’s “Hottest New Restaurant in Peoria,” Travel + Leisure’s “50 Best New Restaurants,” Midwest Living’s “New Spots to Eat, Play and Stay” and Opinionated About Dining’s 2013 “Top 100 U.S. Restaurants.”

Opened since September, 2010 and celebrating its 5th year, Reserve Wine & Food has been recognized by Grand Rapids Magazine, OpenTable, Food & Wine Magazine, the James Beard Foundation and Wine Spectator. Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids at 201 Monroe Avenue NW, Reserve Wine & Food offers a world-class menu fully embracing the West Michigan farm-to-table philosophy in an elegant yet casual fine dining setting.

This article was republished with permission from Dianna at Promote Michigan. We do our best to help with the promotion of the great State of Michigan!

Watch this Movie, Please!

October 27, 2015Area Education, Editorial, Education, Our CitiesEducation, Most Likely to Succeed, Ron Koehler, School News Network, Standardized TestingJoanne

The film "Most Likely to Succeed" asks: Can our schools prepare today's students for the jobs of tomorrow? — The film “Most Likely to Succeed” asks: Can our schools prepare today’s students for the jobs of tomorrow?

By: Ron Koehler – School News Network

One of the enduring principles of comedy is juxtaposition.

Take, for example, this joke from actress Sara Silverman:

“When I was 14, I started dating my father’s best friend. It was weird.”
“But not as weird as my father having a best friend who was 14.”

So, too, is juxtaposition in the comedy of life.

On October 20, Kent ISD hosted a screening of the film “Most Likely to Succeed” at Celebration Cinema. It’s an engaging film that poses this question: Our schools were designed at the turn of the 20th Century by business and educational leaders to prepare workers for the mass production of products. Can these schools prepare today’s students for the jobs of tomorrow?

All in attendance agreed it was thought provoking. There was great dialogue about an education organized around rote memorization in a world of search engines, the critical thinking and problem solving skills required in today’s workplace, and the failings of an accountability system built on the standardized test.

Heady stuff, indeed. And the next morning, I find this in my email inbox:

LANSING, Mich. — State Sen. Phil Pavlov, R-St. Clair Township, announced Wednesday that the Michigan Senate Education Committee will conduct a series of hearings on Michigan’s academically failing schools, beginning Wednesday, Nov. 4.

Juxtaposition. From dreaming about what education could be, what it should be, to what it is in a world where our schools are governed by students’ scores on standardized tests. Their performance on a single test, on a single day, is the determining factor in whether a school building, and typically a district, is considered a success, or a failure.

There are so many more factors to consider. All of the research shows children of poverty start kindergarten well behind children from middle-class suburbs because they’re exposed to fewer early learning opportunities, they’re more likely to suffer health and nutrition deficiencies, etc., etc.

In the early grades, there are developmental issues and differences between genders. Boys are generally behind girls. Some boys really don’t have the biological building blocks in place to be proficient in reading at third grade. Few learn well by sitting quietly in rows reading books.

As the writers and producers of Most Likely to Succeed point out, grouping students by age and, later, by age and subject, are organizational tools, not educational tools. There is no evidence these organizational tools are anything more than an easy way for adults to manage large groups of students.

The research indicates all students are different, all develop in different ways and all would benefit from a system based on competency. A competency based system would make learning the most important factor in a student’s education. Some would master concepts faster, some slower, but none would be judged as failures because they were unable to master a concept by a certain age or a date marked on a calendar for standardized tests to be administered.

Forgive me for this overgeneralization, but mostly, our elected officials believe our current education system is expensive and our scores on standardized tests are too low. Virtually everything in education policy orbits around these two bits of information.

Please, don’t get me wrong. All of our elected officials are well intentioned people. I admire their public service. I’m all for efficiency. But most of the discussion surrounding education is focused on the wrong things.

What should we focus on? I’m not the expert. But let’s go back to juxtaposition.

Think of the excitement of four or five-year olds when they first go to school. And then, think of the dull and disinterested response you get when you ask a teenager what he or she learned in school today: “Nothing.”

Shouldn’t that be the focus of education reform? Shouldn’t we ask what happened to the love of learning?

Why do the majority of students say they’re bored every day in school? We should be looking for ways to fulfill the wisdom of William Butler Yeats, who famously said “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”

Let’s light a fire. Please watch Most Likely to Succeed. Please ask your legislators to watch it too. And then let’s have a conversation about how we can make our schools better.

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

Grand Rapids Comic-Con

October 26, 2015Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Our CitiesComic-Con, Grand Rapids Comic Con, Katelyn KohaneJoanne

By: Katelyn Kohane

“Your mission, should you choose to accept it” is to see what I accomplished at the Grand Rapids Comic-Con.

As some of you know I did attend the biggest Comic-Con this year in San Diego. So follow me through the Grand Rapids Comic-Con.

I heard attendance for Grand Rapids Comic-Con, was 6,000 people. Compared to San Diego is not much, but the good thing would be that all 6,000 would fit into Hall H!

I was only able to attend Grand Rapids Comic-Con on Friday for a few hours. I wandered the floor and ran across some pretty cool cars. I saw the Speed Racer Mach 5, the Starsky and Hutch car, Mater from Cars, and Tony Stark’s car from Iron Man.

There were a few people that dressed up. They had some neat costumes. There were a lot from Batman. I saw a Harley Quinn, The Riddler, The Joker and Harvey Dent. There were also the Ghost Busters, Indiana Jones and Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy.

Unfortunately, I was not able to attend any of the panels in Grand Rapids but they did have some neat ones that I would have liked. Such as “The Life of Being a Bad Guy”, “The World of Being a Stunt Man”, and “What is the 501st? 501st Legion of Stormtroopers.”

As I mentioned before from San Diego Comic-Con, The 501st and Rebel Legion are two groups that you can join and wear Star Wars costumes plus do volunteer work. They had a big booth at Grand Rapids Comic-Con.

As I also mentioned from San Diego Comic-Con, Ashley Eckstein of Her Universe had a Fashion Show and showed off some really cool outfits. While at Grand Rapids Comic-Con there was a girl who had on one of Ashley’s dresses that she designed. I also wore a sweatshirt that Ashley designed. It’s called the Ultimate Convention Hoodie. She thought of everything. It has pockets for posters, pockets for comics and even a pocket for a water bottle. She really does come up with amazing designs.

New York happened to have their Comic-Con a week before Grand Rapids. At the New York Comic-Con I heard that Back to the Future stars Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) and Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) met up. This is the 30th Anniversary of Back to the Future. They met up to discuss some of the predictions from the movie. Unfortunately, the Chicago Cubs just lost to the New York Mets, but they did get another prediction right about Star Wars Episode 7!

The cast from the Blindspot was also at the New York Comic-Con. I’ve been watching the Blindspot and it has an interesting twist. The Player, another series that was introduced, at San Diego Comic-Con, is about betting on crime and takes place in and around Vegas. Don’t forget SuperGirl will be starting soon!

I did buy some cool shot glasses from Grand Rapids Comic-Con. One has the two symbols from Star Wars, which are the Rebel Alliance and the Empire on it and the other had the Mandilorian symbol, which is Boba Fett’s symbol.

Hopefully next years Grand Rapids Comic-Con will just continue to get bigger and better. Signing off until next time. And in honor of “Back to the Future.” “If my calculations are correct, when this baby hits 88 miles per hour… you’re gonna see some serious shit.”

Katie works in the film industry as a camera operator and has worked on films like ‘All You Can Dream’, ‘Set Up’ and a TV show called ‘American Fallen Soldier.’ She loves helping WKTV with the Citizen Journalism team and working as a tech at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Katie loves working in the film industry and loves watching movies just as much!

Trunk-or-Treat gets accessorized with the Fall Festival (Note: Location Change!)

October 23, 2015Holidays, Local Faces, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsFall Festival, Kentwood Parks and Rec Department, Mike DeWitt, Trunk or TreatJoanne

Children in costumes, candy coming through their ears, and laughter and smiles that can be seen from space!

Trick-or-Treating is an annual tradition around the nation on Halloween, but the City of Kentwood adds a little twist, instead of going door-to-door, the children go trunk-to-trunk. Why trick-or-treat when you can just as easily trunk-or-treat?

Trunk-or-Treat has become a holiday staple for the Kentwood Parks and Rec Department. It gives children an opportunity to dress up in their favorite costumes and trick-or-treat in a safe environment. The event is also a chance for those children who don’t live in neighborhoods to have a neighborhood brought to them!

This year, with a whole new staff running the event, the Kentwood Parks and Rec Department decided to add a little more fun to Trunk-or-Treat. Don’t think of it as a face-lift or a makeover, it’s more along the lines of accessorizing.

“We are excited about the new addition of the Fall Festival in conjunction with the Trunk or Treat event!” explained Lorraine Beloncis of the Kentwood Parks and Rec Department, “We’ve added hayrides, games, a bouncy house, music, cider & donuts and face painting along with our sponsored trunks handing out candy.”

The addition of the Fall Festival should only add more smiles to a fun-filled day that families and children of all ages can enjoy. On top of all the fun events previously mentioned, there will be pumpkin racing, Halloween Plinko, and pumpkin ring toss.

Oh! I almost failed to mention, the children aren’t the only ones who get to dress up and show off their creative side. It’s encouraged for all participants to decorate and vote on their trunks as well!

Don’t miss out on all the fun of the Fall Festival! This years event is Saturday, October 24 from 10am-noon. Because of the weather, Fall Festival has been moved from its original location at Veteran’s Park to the Garage at Kentwood’s Public Works Department. The address is 5068 Breton Road, between 44th and 52nd Street.

West Michigan’s Best Color Tours

October 23, 2015Our Cities, Recreation, TravelColor tours, West Michigan Color Tours, West Michigan Tourist AssociationJoanne

The West Michigan Tourist Association compiled a list of the 26 best color tours in West Michigan. If you’re looking to get away and enjoy our beautiful State in its colorful state of mind, give these color tours your full attention!

Just how many ways are there to view this splendor of autumn’s pallet? West Michigan travelers have an abundance of ways to enjoy the show, either by car, train, boat, bicycle, hot air balloon rides, at festivals, hiking, on golf courses and luxury resorts, or historic highways. Many of these “old roads” cut through great forests of hardwoods and pines and make perfect color tours, and some are state-designated scenic routes. From 40 miles to 140 miles, there’s a day trip perfect for everyone. Read on to view a listing of 26 scenic driving routes and print detailed directions for each.

Color Tour One: Directions Starting from New Buffalo

Red Arrow Hwy north to Bridgman. I-94 north to Benton Harbor, M-63 north to Coloma Rd, east to Watervliet. I-94 east to Paw Paw (Exit 60), M-40 south to M-216 east in Marcellus, US-131 south to Three Rivers. M-60 west to Cassopolis, M-62 north to Dowagiac. West on M-62, south on M-140 to Niles, M-60BR to US-12, west to New Buffalo.

Color Tour Two: Directions Starting from Centreville

Klinger Lake Rd north (becomes Covered Bridge Rd) across Langley Covered Bridge. Covered Bridge Rd then becomes Silver St. North to M-60. East on M-60 through Mendon (becomes M-60/M-66) to Clarendon. South on 22 Mile Rd (becomes Clarendon Rd in Branch Co). Right on Jonesville Rd 1/2 mile, south on Quincy Ray Rd to California, then west on Southern Rd to Angola Rd. Turn left, then right to return to Southern. West through East Gilead to River Son Rd, right on Southern, right on Orland, then left to Southern. Left on Dutch School Rd, right at Round Lake Rd past Round Lake (becomes Fawn River Rd in St. Joseph Co). Left at second intersection to continue on Fawn River Rd. North on Klinger Lk Rd to return to Centreville.

Color Tour Three: Directions Starting from Jackson

South on M-50, west on Meridian, south on Stonewall. South on Horton Rd, south on Jackson Rd to Liberty. West on Hanover Rd, north on Pulaski Rd to M-60 heading northeast. West on Michigan Ave, north on Parma, north on Country Farm Rd, north on Rogers Rd, east on Benn Rd. North on Stepladder Rd, north on Springport Rd through Minard Mill where it becomes Minard Rd. South on M-50, south on US-127, east on I-94. North on Route 106 to Munith. South on Coon Hill Rd, east on Waterloo Munith Rd through Waterloo Recreational Area in the State Park. South on Clear Lake Rd (turns into Francisco Rd south of I-94). West on Michigan Ave back to Jackson.

Color Tour Four: Directions Starting from Lansing

M-43 west through Grand Ledge, then south to M-89. East to Gull Lake Rd, north to C Ave. East to 40th St (becomes Kellogg Ave in Barry Co), north to Hickory Corners. East on CR-400 (Hickory Rd) to M-37, south to M-89 (W Michigan St), east to Raymond, north to Verona, east to McCallaster, north to ÒNÓ Dr to 16 Mile Rd (becomes 16-1/2 Mile Rd). South on Old US-27 to Marshall, east on Michigan Ave to Albion. North on M-99 through Springport (becomes M-50/M-99) to Lansing.

Color Tour Five: Directions Starting from South Haven

Phoenix Rd (CR-388) east to 46th St. Turn south, then east to return to CR-388 in Bloomingdale. CR-655 south to CR-380 east, 38th St north, then CR-388 east through Kendall. North to 12th Ave (CR-388, becomes D Ave in Kalamazoo Co). D Ave east to US-131, south to M-43, west to South Haven.

Color Tour Six: Directions Starting from Allegan

M-40/89 north to Monroe Rd (118th St), west to Allegan Dam Rd north (circles back east around Lake Allegan). Cross M-40/89 to head north on 36th St, east on Dumont Rd, then north on 122nd Ave. East on 127th Ave, east on 128th Ave through Hopkins to 12th St north. East across US-131 on 129th Ave (becomes CR-430 in Barry Co) around Gun Lake through Yankee Springs Recreation Area, then south on CR-611 to CR-428. West to CR-623, south to CR-426, west at Orangeville. South on Dennison Rd to 116th Ave (M-22), east across US-131 to Allegan.

Color Tour Seven: Directions Starting from Holland

BR-31 south to US-31. Take first exit (Saugatuck), then south on Blue Star Hwy (A-2) to 118th Ave. East to 62nd St, north to 122nd Ave. Wind east, then north to M-89 (124th Ave), east through Fennville to Old Allegan Rd north (parts are unpaved but maintained), east to 60th St north. East on 140th Ave, north on 66th St, west on Ottagan St to S Shore Dr, east to downtown Holland/US-31.

Color Tour Eight: Directions Starting from Grand Haven

Robbins Rd east to Mercury Dr past Grand River bayous to Riverside Park (becomes Green St, then North Cedar Dr). South on 104th Ave, east on Osborn St (becomes Warner). South on 68th St, east on M-45. South onto 48th St, east on Fillmore (becomes Cottonwood Dr). In Jenison, left on Baldwin, left on Chicago Dr. In Grandville, left on Wilson to M-11/28th St, left onto M-11 northbound. Left on Fennesey St (becomes Luce St, then Linden Dr). Left on Leonard St through Spring Lake to Grand Haven.

Color Tour Nine: Directions Starting from Grand Rapids

North on East Beltline (M-44), turns into Northland Dr through Rockford to Cedar Springs. West on M-46, south on CR-B35 (Ravenna Rd) through Ravenna to Coopersville. Left on Randall Rd, right on 48th Ave. I-96 east back to Grand Rapids.

Color Tour Ten: Directions Starting from Ada

M-21 east, south on Ada Dr, east on Bronson to view Ada Covered Bridge. Left on Thornapple River Dr, right on Ada Dr to M-21 east. North on Hudson (becomes Lincoln Lake Ave). East on Fallasburg County Park Rd, follow signs to cross Fallasburg Covered Bridge. Right on McPherson (becomes Potters Rd), north on Whites Bridge Rd (becomes gravel) across Whites Covered Bridge. East on Belding Rd (also M-44), north on M-91, east on M-46. South on M-66 to Ionia, west on M-21 to Ada.

Color Tour Eleven: Directions Starting from Big Rapids

Northland Dr north through Paris to Reed City. East on M-10BR to M-10 east to Evart. South on Main (becomes 85th Ave then curves to become 80th Ave) to Hill Corner. East on 20 Mile Rd, south on M-66, east on Taft Rd (becomes Airline Rd in Isabella Co). South on Coldwater Rd, east on Weidman, south on old US-27 (Mission Rd) to Mt. Pleasant. West on M-20 (High St then Remus Rd). South on Winn Rd, west on Blanchard Rd (becomes Jackson Rd in Mecosta Co). North on M-66 to Remus, west on M-20 (9 Mile Rd), south on 90th Ave, west on Buchanan Rd through Canadian Lakes. South on 130th Ave, west on 5 Mile Rd (CR-548). North on Northland Drive through Stanwood and back to Big Rapids.

Color Tour Twelve: Directions Starting from Fremont

M-82 west to M-120 north through Hesperia, east on M-20 to Dickinson Ave. North to 11 Mile Rd, east to Woodland Park, north on Bingham Ave to Bitely. West on Cleveland (13 Mile Rd), north on Osborn Ave, east on Coolidge Dr, north on Star Lake Tower Rd, west on Star Lake Dr (becomes Evergreen) around Big Star Lake. East on Carrs Rd (56th St) to Baldwin. South on M-37 (Woodbridge Dr) to White Cloud. East on Base Line Rd, south on Elm Ave. East on 36th St past the Hardy Dam, west on Hardy Croton Dr (becomes Croton Dr) to Newaygo. Left on Mason Dr (M-37), east on M-82. South on Cypress Ave to Ensley Center. West on 120th St to Ashland Center. North on Wisner Ave, west on 112th St to Bridgeton (becomes Warner Ave, then M-82) to Fremont.

Color Tour Thirteen: Directions Starting from Muskegon

US-31 north to westbound Whitehall-Colby St exit (US-31BR). Left on Mears, left on Main, right on Benston, right on Durham, right on Lakewood Rd. Left on Weber, right on Michillinda. Left on Nestrom, right on Duck Lake Rd, then left on Scenic Dr along Lake Michigan to Muskegon State Park. Left on Memorial Dr to Whitehall Rd/US-31BR (Seaway Dr). South to Laketon Ave (becomes Lakeshore Dr after curve) to Pere Marquette Park. Follow shoreline. Right on Beach St, left on Sherman Blvd, right on Lincoln, right on McCracken, left on Seminole. Right on Lake Harbor Rd (becomes Pontaluna Rd) to US-31 north to Muskegon.

Color Tour Fourteen: Directions Starting from Montague

North on US-31BR, north on Whitehall Rd through Rothbury. East on Cleveland Rd, north on 90th Ave, west on Arthur Rd, north on Oceana Dr through New Era, Shelby and Hart. West on Monroe Rd (becomes US-31BR) to Long Bridge Rd along Pentwater Lake. South on Ridge Ave (becomes Hazel Rd, then Silver Lake Rd at Silver Lake). South on 18th Ave, west on Buchanan, south on 16th Ave (becomes Scenic Dr, then Webster Rd). South on 48th Ave (becomes Lehman Rd in Muskegon County), east on Meinert Park Rd, south on Chase Rd, west on Hancock Rd and south on Old Channel Trail. East on Prospect Rd and follow the shoreline back to Montague.

Color Tour Fifteen: Directions Starting from Ludington

US-10 west, north on Lakeshore Drive to Hamlin Lake. East on Dewey Rd, north on Jebavy then right immediately on Angling Rd. East on Fountain Rd to Fountain. South on Reek Rd, east on Sugar Grove Rd, south on Benson Rd to Walhalla. East on M-10, then first right south onto Wallhalla Rd. West on Hawley Rd, south on Scottville Rd, west on Marrison Rd, south on Stiles to Bucks Corner. West on Washington Rd to West Oceana Dr, north on Lakeshore Dr past Bass Lake to Buttersville Park and Pere Marquette Memorial. Go back south on Lakeshore Dr, east on Iris Rd to US-31 north. Exit west on M-10 back to Ludington.

Color Tour Sixteen: Directions Starting from Clare

US-10BR northwest through Farwell. Northwest on M-115, east on M-61 to Harrison, south on Old US-27BR to Clare.

Color Tour Seventeen: Directions Starting from Cadillac

M-55 east to M-66 north through Lake City. West on M-42 through Manton to US-131 south. West on Boon Rd to Harrietta, south on 11-1/4 Rd. West on M-55, south on 7-1/2 Rd (becomes 48th Rd). South on 11-1/4 Rd to State Rd into Lake Co. East on Five Mile Rd, north on Skookum, east to Eight Mile (becomes 20 Mile Rd in Osceola Co), east to US-131, north to Cadillac.

Color Tour Eighteen: Directions Starting from Manistee

US-31 north to M-110 (Lakeshore Rd) to Portage Lake. East on Crescent Beach Rd, north on M-22 through Onekama. West on Potter Rd through Pierport, west on 13 Mile Rd to Lake Michigan. Backtrack 200 feet east. North on Lakeview Rd, east on Shaef Rd, north on M-22 through Arcadia. (Scenic Hwy), east on Grace Rd. South on M-31, south on M-115 past Thompsonville. South on Yates Rd, west on Nine Mile Rd, south on Highbridge Rd. West on M-55 (Caberfae Hwy), south on US-31 back to Manistee.

Color Tour Nineteen: Directions Starting from Frankfort

East on M-115 to Benzonia, northeast on US-31 through Interlochen. North on M-37/US-31 to Traverse City. To tour Old Mission Point, follow M-37 north. Backtrack to Traverse CIty via US-31 west. M-22 north through Suttons Bay to Northport. South on M-22 through Leland to Glen Arbor. South on M-109 through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. South on M-22 to Empire and back to Frankfort.

Color Tour Twenty: Directions Starting from Grayling

I-75 north to M-93 (exit 259) north past Hartwick Pines State Park. East on CR-612 to Lovells, south on CR-F97, south on M-18 through Roscommon. West on M-55 to Houghton Lake. North on Old US-27 back to Grayling.

Color Tour Twenty-One: Directions Starting from Kalkaska

North on US-131/M-66 to Mancelona. South on CR-571 (Tillie Rd in Antrim Co, Darragh Rd in Kalkaska Co) to Darragh. East on CR-612 (Manistee Lk Rd) around Manistee Lake to Frederick. South on Old US-27 to Grayling. West on M-72, north on US-131 back to Kalkaska.

Color Tour Twenty-Two: Directions Starting from Elk Rapids

North on US-31 to Eastport. East on M-88 toward Central Lake. North on CR-65, east on Mohrmann Bridge Rd, south on Rushton Rd (becomes Intermediate Lake Rd), south on Derenzy Rd to CR-620 through Bellaire. South on East Torch Lk Dr (CR-593) through Alden (becomes Crystal Beach Rd) and north to Kewadin (becomes Cherry Ave) then south again (becomes Cairn Hwy) back to Elk Rapids.

Color Tour Twenty-Three: Directions Starting from Gaylord

West on M-32 to East Jordan. West on Ellsworth Rd (CR-626) to Ellsworth. West on Atwood Rd (CR-48) to Atwood. North on US-31 through Charlevoix, Bay Harbor & Petoskey on to Alanson. East on M-68 to Indian River. South on I-75 back to Gaylord.

Color Tour Twenty-Four: Directions Starting from Petoskey

US-31 north to M-119, north through Harbor Springs to Cross Village. Left on Lake Shore Dr to Lakeview Rd (becomes Gill Rd at Sturgeon Bay). Left on Cecil Bay Rd, right on Wilderness Park Dr north to Mackinaw City. Pass under I-75 at the base of Mackinac Bridge. South on US-23 (Cheboygan Co. Scenic Route) through Cheboygan. South on M-27 through Indian River. East on M-68 to US-31 south to Petoskey.

Color Tour Twenty-Five: Directions Starting from Mackinac Island Ferry Docks

Left on Market St to Cadotte Ave, right to Huron Rd behind Ft. Mackinac to Arch Rock. Left on Rifle Range Rd, right on Sugar Loaf Rd, back to Rifle Range. Right to Garrison Rd past Skull Cave, left on Annex Rd to Cadotte, right to Market, left to docks.

Color Tour Twenty-Six: Directions Starting from Beaver Island Ferry Docks

Starting at the ferry dock in “downtown” St. James, turn right at the Ace Hardware. Turn left at the top of the hill onto The Kings Highway heading south out of “town”. Turn left on McCauley’s Road. Turn right on East Side Drive. At the south end of the island it becomes West Side. Don’t forget to stop and visit the Lighthouse just before Iron Ore Bay. Cross the 4-way intersection onto Paid Een Ogs Road. Turn left onto The Kings Hwy back to “town.”

Halloween Fun in West Michigan: Central Michigan

October 22, 2015Local Business, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsBlandford Nature Center, Central West Michigan, Chocolates by Grimaldi, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids Children's Museum, Halloween On Ice, Halloween West Michigan, John Ball Zoo, LowellArts!, Opera Grand Rapids, Our Brewing Company, Pentwater, Play Bytes by PlaywrightsJoanne

There is so much to do in West Michigan to kick off the Halloween fun! This three part series will dive into different Fall and Halloween activities all throughout the West side of this Marvelous State. Next up is Central West Michigan. If you missed part one on Southern Michigan, be sure not to let it Fall to the wayside!

As Halloween approaches, all the little ghouls and goblins have one thing on their minds: Trick-or-Treating! To keep the kids’ minds off candy just a bit longer, kick off your Halloween fun early in West Michigan! Whether it’s family fun at the corn maze, or Halloween-themed pub crawls for the grown up ghouls, there are plenty of Halloween activities for all ages around West Michigan to get you in a Halloween mood!

Central Halloween Fun in West Michigan

Opera Grand Rapids

Opera Grand Rapids is ramping up for its annual Night With The Opera fundraiser on October 30 surrounding the company’s season opening concert of Giuseppe Verdi’s “Requiem.” Opera Grand Rapids invites the public to participate in an evening of unique cuisine and libations, live performances, and plenty of ghosts and ghouls at this year’s Halloween-themed event. All proceeds from the event support Opera Grand Rapids’ mission year-round, to foster and fulfill demand for high quality, live opera in West Michigan.

In keeping with tradition, Night With the Opera will treat guests to a festive evening packed full of live performances, along with the opportunity to join other advocates in support of live opera in the community. More information can be found here.

Pentwater

Pentwater has a number of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the Halloween season! October 31st heralds Halloween on the Green & the Spooktacular Parade! From 1pm through 5pm, bring the kids out in costume for fun activities, trick or treating with downtown merchants, the parade, and more Halloween fun.

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

Bring your little ghouls and goblins in for a night of Trick or Treat fun at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum! Visit on Thursday, October 29th, from 5:00-8:00pm to create Halloween art, decorate a treat bag, and trick or treat throughout the museum! Entry is just $1.75 per person, and don’t forget your costume!

LowellArts! King Gallery

On display in the LowellArts! King Gallery is an exhibition titled “Things That Go Bump in the Night.” The exhibit is a group show of dark and mysterious themed artwork that was submitted through an open call for artists. Artwork on display embraces the concept of darkness, mystery, and fear in a thoughtful way. The show was juried to ensure that artwork fit the theme, and is appropriate for all viewing audiences. The exhibit will be on display October 1st through 31st. The gallery is open Tues-Fri 10am-6pm and Sat 1-4pm.

Frederik Meijer Gardens

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is getting in the Halloween mood with “Hallowee-Ones”! Hallowee-Ones takes place on Friday, October 23, from 10 am through 12 pm. Dress your child in costume and enjoy this special event designed for the youngest visitors. Children are invited to join in a costume parade and listen to Halloween-themed stories. This event is included with admission to Meijer Gardens.

Chocolates by Grimaldi

Few things can compare to a crisp autumn apple grown in Michigan’s fertile glacial soil, but if you’re the kind of person that likes your Halloween apples dripping in an extra layer or two, of deliciousness, then Chocolates by Grimaldi has the treat for you.

For a limited time the Grand Haven-based chocolate factory, is offering a special chocolate caramel apple. Their chocolatiers use complementary ingredients that allow the customer to experience layers of flavors. They start with crisp, hand-picked apples and drench them in their buttery, and creamy caramel. Next they coat them with their own delectable chocolate. Finally, the apples are dusted them with a layer of crunchy nuts or other toppings.

If you want one, you had better hurry, because the apples won’t last long. The limited edition apples will only be available through the fall at Chocolates by Grimaldi in Grand Haven or on their website.

Our Brewing Company

Our Brewing Company is hosting their annual Anniversary/Halloween Party on Friday, October 30, 2015. This will be their 3rd Anniversary party, as they opened November 1 of 2012. There will be live music, great beer, everyone dressed up in costumes, and great merchandise for sale, including their custom Anniversary shirts which will only be sold at this time! Party will start around 8:00 and go until Midnight.

John Ball Zoo

Visit West Michigan’s favorite trick-or-treat spot at the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, where you’ll find over 20 booths, over-the-top decorations, and costumed characters! Your visit will include games, prizes, magic, music, special animal activities, and so much more. Bring your bees, pirates, princesses, and bears to Zoo Goes Boo on October 23rd-25th!

Play Bytes by Playwrights

Play Bytes by Playwrights is a production and competition of a collection of eight 10-minute plays written by playwrights and performed by emerging and established actors at LowellArts! Either drama or comedy, all the plays fit the theme: Things That Go Bump in the Night. A panel of judges will select one of the competing playwrights to win a $500 cash prize. Audience members will be invited to vote for their favorite short play, and the playwright winner of the People’s Choice and Juried Cash Award will be announced at the final production.

The Dinner Theater productions are held at Larkin’s Other Place, 301 W. Main Street on Friday and Saturday evenings at 6:30pm–October 23, 24, 30 & 31 with a Sunday matinee at 1:30pm–October 25. Show only tickets are available–play begins at 7:30pm on Fri & Sat and 2:30pm on Sunday. Advanced tickets are required for Dinner Theater ($25), and show only tickets ($13) can be purchased in advance or at the door. For ticket information, call 897-8545. More info here.

Lowell

What could be more fun than Lowell in October! They have a host of activities for you and the family to enjoy. Put on your walking shoes and enjoy the autumn air while visiting all the events throughout Historic Lowell! Participate in or view the Harvest Hustle 5K Run/Walk or the Outdoor Chili Madness Chili Cook-off at Larkin’s Restaurant, plus join them at the fairgrounds for the Autumn Marketplace, which will feature Arts and Crafts, Farmers Market, Flea Market, Pet Expo, Scarecrow-Building hoedown and live entertainment!

Halloween On Ice

Nancy Kerrigan’s Halloween On Ice is coming to Van Andel Arena on Friday, October 30th at 7:00 PM. Get ready for a night of family fun with Halloween-themed figure skating performances by a star studded cast of Olympic, World, and US National medalists including Nancy Kerrigan, Kurt Browning, Johnny Weir and many more!

The line-up of skaters is subject to change. Tickets are on sale now at the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place box offices, Ticketmaster ticket centers, Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Groups of 12 or more save by calling 616-742-6185, emailing GroupSales@smggr.com or online.

Blandford Nature Center

Celebrate Halloween and the great outdoors at the same time at Blandford Nature Center in Grand Rapids. Visit on October 29th at 6pm for the “Beasts of Blandford” program. As the sun sets and the night animals become active, come creep through the enchanted Blandford forest. Enjoy a Halloween treat and participate in a craft.

Make sure to check out part 3 on Friday for Halloween activities in Northern West Michigan!

Runaways and Homeless Children Tell Their Stories

October 21, 2015Area Education, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Politics, Upcoming EventsArbor Circle, Deb Havens, homeless and runaway kids, National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, The Bridge, The Green Light ProjectJoanne

By: Deb Havens

West Michigan is known as a great place to raise kids, but every year an average of 2,000 young people run away from home. When you’re a homeless child, streets in West Michigan towns are as dirty and dangerous as any in a big city. As the weather gets colder, somewhere around 200 kids will be looking for food and a warm place to sleep every night. Chances are, wherever they land, safety may be a last consideration.

Fortunately, the non-profit organization Arbor Circle provides counseling and support for up to 21 days for young people ages 10 to 20 years old at the only emergency shelter in the community. Jenell Hill, Arbor Circle Community Engagement Coordinator says, “Many people don’t believe it.” So to spotlight these issues in honor of National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, Arbor Circle, located at 1115 Ball Ave NE in Grand Rapids, will host the Green Light Project in November:

The Green Light Project, Wednesday, November 4, 2015 – 5:30pm–8pm

Young people who have experienced living as a runaway and homeless who found shelter either at The Bridge or other service programs will host facility tours and share their stories. “Sometimes it’s not only therapeutic for young people but they are also a voice for their peers,” adds Hill. “Maybe other young people won’t have the same struggles.”

Without Arbor Circle, homeless, runaway, and street youth often become victims of abuse and neglect, sexual assault or trafficking, and get involved in substance abuse. They also tend to suffer from both physical and mental health issues, failure in school, and trouble with the law. These are the stories that Hill says are often overlooked when people think about the good life in West Michigan.

Hill stresses that all minor youth tour guides participate with permission of their parents, and those under 18 lead tours accompanied by Arbor Circle staff members. Hill says that budget cuts in Washington, D.C. have affected Arbor Circle resources. “We used to have a 15 seat bus to transport kids, but that broke down and we haven’t been able to replace it,” notes Hill. “We also rely on volunteers to help us cook meals.” Donations and volunteers are always welcome.

For more information on services for homeless or runaway children, contact Arbor Circle / The Bridge.

Gilda’s Club to Host Night of Gratitude to Honor Supporters

October 20, 2015Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our CitiesGilda's Club Grand Rapids, Night of GraditudeJoanne

On Nov. 12, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids will host its Night of Gratitude event to recognize the many supporters who help carry out the organization’s mission of providing emotional healthcare for those on a cancer or grief journey.

The 2015 honorees include:

•   Meijer – Corporate Engagement Award
This award is given to a corporate partner that demonstrates philanthropic support and encourages its employees, vendors, and community to engage with Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids through volunteerism, fundraising, leadership roles, and creating awareness of our mission and program.
•   GE Aviation – Service Award
This award is given to a group of any size that takes the word “service” to the next level through ongoing support of the Gilda’s Club mission, program, events, and most of all, our members.
•   Pink Arrow Project – Community Partner
This award is given to an organization or group that exemplifies what it means to support Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids and the West Michigan community through innovative fundraising concepts, promoting the mission of Gilda’s Club in creative ways, and being genuine ambassadors of our organization.
•   Sister Sue Tracy, OP – Spirit of Gilda Award
This award is presented to an individual who has supported Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids through openly sharing our mission of cancer and grief support with his or her friends and colleagues, advocating for our organization with other leaders in the community, and doing so with the light-heartedness and laughter that embodied our namesake Gilda Radner.

“Gilda’s Club has so many wonderful supporters who help advance our cause. We hope that through the Night of Gratitude, we can show these organizations and individuals how thankful we are for their passion, innovation and vision,” said Wendy Wigger, president of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids.

Gilda’s Night of Gratitude will be held at New Vintage Place (889 Broadway Ave. NW, Grand Rapids) and will begin at 5:30 p.m. An awards ceremony for honorees will take place at 6:30 p.m. and a performance by the Pop Scholars, a four man Grand Rapids-based improv team, will follow.

Tickets to the Night of Gratitude can be purchased for $50 by contacting Ashley Owen at aowen@gildasclubgr.org or 616-453-8300 or by going to www.gildasclubgr.org/gildasnightofgratitude.

Hispanic Chamber After-Hours Event to be Held at WKTV

October 19, 2015Area Education, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsAlan Headbloom, Feel Like You Belong, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, WKTVJoanne

Afro-Caribbean artist Erick Picardo talks with FLYB host Alan Headbloom at WKTV.

It’s time to fix your hair, check your make-up, and get ready to go under the television lights!

This October’s After-Hours networking event for the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will be co-hosted at WKTV with Alan Headbloom and his show Feel Like You Belong. WKTV is located at 5261 Clyde Park SW in Wyoming, MI.

In addition to networking, appetizers, and drinks, Chamber members and their guests will have a chance to learn about community access television from WKTV General Manager Tom Norton. Attendees will learn how to create Spanish-language content for local broadcast and get tours of the facility by WKTV staff.

To conclude the evening, a Chamber member will be interviewed in front of guests on the set of Feel Like You Belong, a program that tells immigrant stories. Afterwards, guests will have a chance to take photos on set with FLYB host Alan Headbloom.

The October 22 event kicks off at 5:30 and concludes at 7:00. Chamber members should RSVP online at www.hccwm.org. Potential members can call the Chamber office with questions at 616-452-3960.

Fall Yard Services Available to Wyoming Residents

October 14, 2015Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, Leaves, Yard WasteJoanne

The City of Wyoming has several yard waste services available to help keep yards looking neat as leaves begin to fall.

The yard waste drop off-site at 2660 Burlingame S.W. is open to residents Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through December 12.

For more information, contact the Public Works Department at 530-7260.

Haunted West Michigan

October 13, 2015Local Business, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsForest of Fear, Halloween, Haunted Houses, Haunted West Michigan, The Haunt, West Michigan HauntsJoanne

Watching a scary movie is one thing, but the real horror begins when you live it. To safely help you live the scary movie experience, the haunted houses of West Michigan have you covered! Enjoy terrifying scares as you cautiously check around every corner, making sure that there isn’t somebody – or something – following you.

Central

The Haunt

The Haunt has been generating screams for 15 years and they’re excited for another year! Their 20,000 square foot land is filled with all things scary! Expect even more Hollywood level sets, lighting, and special effects as you run from ghosts to clowns to everything in between. New features and side attractions help The Haunt continue to serve Michigan with their annual Halloween of scares!

Forest of Fear

The Forest of Fear is West Michigan’ premier outdoor haunted attraction which has been frightening and entertaining thrill-seekers of all ages for years! Located just south of Grand Rapids in Caledonia, the Forest of Fear is an interactive, self guided walk though tour through five chilling acres of haunted woods and swamps inhabited by ghosts, monsters, and other terrifying creatures. As you walk along the dimly lit and winding trails of the Forest of Fear you will face one spine-tingling jolt after another in an experience unlike any other haunted house!

South

Haunted Campus at Michigan Maritime Museum

The Haunted Campus event at the Michigan Maritime Museum takes place October 30 and October 31 from 8pm to 11pm. This event transforms the entire campus into a terrifying new locale and challenges visitors to navigate through the horror around them. This event is only for those ages 14 and up and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

If learning about ghostly spirits is more your speed, make sure to check out the Michigan’s Ghostly Beacons presentation at the Michigan Maritime Museum! Nearly two dozen lights in Michigan are rumored to be haunted by their previous keepers. The stories of these lights will entertain all ages! Dianna Stampfler, who has contributed to a plethora of publications, will present with all the proceeds benefiting the Save the Light campaign.

Haunted Trail at Stokes Homestead Farm Market

Hop on a wagon at Stokes Homestead Farm Market and take a ride on the haunted trail highlighting the history of the “Shadow Hill Asylum.” The haunted forest and apple orchard are inhabited by the patients of Shadow Hollow so watch out! They may even climb onto the wagon and try to bring you back with them!

Haunted Forest and Temple Coldwater Country CVB

Take an adventure around the Haunted Forest at Rotary Park in Coldwater! Taking place October 26, 27, 29, and 30, kids will enjoy the less scary 6pm to 7pm activities while the real scary things come out from 7pm to 9pm!

The basement of the Masonic Temple gets real scary on October 20, 21, 23, 24, 27, 28, 30, and 31! Filled with all the things that go bump in the night, don’t miss a chance to experience Halloween scares in this building that is over 140 years old.

Niles Scream Park

Offering five unique main attractions that are carefully and professionally designed, Niles Scream Park is here to scare the “yell” out of you! This years feature attraction is an homage to Steven King featuring a clown in your sewer, escaping the wrath of Johnny, and seeing first hand Carrie’s prom night! This is in addition to four other great haunted attractions that you don’t want to miss!

Haunted Adventures at Cornwell’s Turkeyville

Every weekend in October, Cornwell’s holds their family friendly Haunted Adventures from 12pm to 8pm on Saturdays and 12pm to 5pm on Sundays! Activities include a pumpkin patch, spooky hay ride, and Haunted Barn. The theme for the Haunted Barn this year is “shadows” so watch out for what is lurking about!

Haunted Forest at Covert/South Haven KOA

Enjoy two weekends of Halloween fun with Covert/South Haven KOA! On the weekends of October 2 and 9, enjoy some great family activities including trick-or-treating, a haunted forest, games, pumpkin decorating, and more! With all these great things to do, you may want to come back for both weekends!

Haunted Corn Maze & 3D Barn at Crane Orchards

Prepare yourself for Crane Orchards’ Haunted Corn Maze and 3-D Barn! The 20-acre corn maze features plenty of spooky interruptions and terrifying surprises as your navigate through it. New to this year’s fall preview is the 3-D Barn which begins at dusk to 10pm.

The Haunted Hallow at Olde World Village

The Old World Village’s largest annual event, The Haunted Hallow, is right around the corner! Supporting the regions charities, The Haunted Hallow features everything scary on a half mile trail going through the woods with over 25 scenes. All this and the Maze of Despair are set up to make sure that you are properly scared! Open every Friday and Saturday night during the month of October form 8pm to midnight. This is not recommended for those under 17.

North

Haunted Forest at Crystal Mountain

Are you brave enough to make it through Crystal Mountain’s Haunted Forest? Hang out by the fire where you’ll hear the screams surrounding the mountain. Carefully maneuver down the haunted trail and watch out for what lurks around every corner. Tickets available at the Park at Water’s Edge on October 17, 23, 24, and 30!

Haunted Trail at Grand Hotel

See the Grand Hotel as you’ve never seen it before! The weekend begins Friday, October 30 with a Welcome Reception, five-course dinner, and Haunted Trail! A scary movie will be presented Friday evening as well! Saturday includes a Bloody Mary bar, pumpkin carving contests, free admission to the Haunted Theatre downtown, and Haunted Afternoon Tea. Another five-course dinner will be served Saturday evening followed by the Grand Halloween Party! There will be live music and all beer, wine, and snacks are included at the party.

Haunts of Mackinac Island Tour at Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is going to be filled to the brim with great activities! Don’t miss the kids Trick or Treating downtown, Haunts of Mackinac Island Tour, and Halloween parties at the downtown pubs! This a great mix of family fun and grown up entertainment!

SCA’s Real to Reel Series Features an Oscar Nomination

October 12, 2015Local Entertainment, Movie Review, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsReal to Reel Series, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Sebastião Salgado, The Salt of the EarthJoanne

The Oscar nominated documentary The Salt of the Earth is coming to the big screen at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (400 Culver Street) on Thursday, October 15, at 7:00 p.m. The documentary is being shown as part of the Real to Reel Series.

For the last 40 years the photographer Sebastião Salgado has been travelling through the earth’s continents, in the footsteps of an ever-changing humanity. He has witnessed some of the major events of our recent history; international conflicts, starvation and exodus.

From stunning images of the gold mines of Serra Pelada (“I had travelled to the dawn of time”), to the horrors of famine in the Sahel and genocide in Rwanda (“We humans are a terrible animal… our history is a history of war”), and ultimately to the rebirth of the “Genesis” project, The Salt of the Earth finds Salgado revisiting and confronting his turbulent past.

In this lush, moving film Juliano Ribeiro Salgado and Wim Wenders co-direct a look at the career of Juliano’s father, Sebastião, as he embarks on the discovery of pristine territories, of wild fauna and flora, and of grandiose landscapes as part of a huge photographic project which is a tribute to the planet’s beauty.

Juliano says the film, “tells the story of an entire cycle, of a living land that dies and is then reborn. That is also more or less the story of Sebastião, who reached a breaking point and had to reinvent himself, so it was a very powerful thing. And to tell the truth, we only realized that in the editing room.”

The Salt of the Earth was named as an official selection at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival and the 2014 Telluride Film Festival. General admission is $5/Members; $7/Future Members.

Prohibition is Still Alive at the Grand Rapids Public Museum

October 11, 2015Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, RecreationAmerican Spirits, Dianna Higgs Stampfler, Grand Rapids Public Museum, ProhibitionJoanne

By: Dianna Higgs Stampfler

American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition graces the galleries of the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) through January 17, 2016. This exhibit explores America’s most colorful and complex constitutional hiccup, spanning from the inception of the temperance movement, through the Roaring ’20s, to the unprecedented repeal of the constitutional amendment.

The world of flappers, bootleggers, temperance lobbyists, and organized crime legends comes to life in the American Spirits exhibition. This extensive collection will showcase over 100 rare artifacts, including: temperance propaganda, flapper dresses from the Roaring ’20s, Carry Nation’s hatchet used during her barroom-smashing raids, and authentic items used for making moonshine and other illegal potent liquors.

Interactive elements and immersive environments will bring to life the sights, sounds, and experiences of the time period. Visitors have the chance to take a quiz to find out if they are a “wet” or a “dry,” learn the Charleston in a re-created speakeasy and play the role of a federal Prohibition agent chasing rumrunners in a custom-built video game.

At the end of the exhibition visitors will explore the legacy of Prohibition in today’s regulatory landscape. Displays will show why and how laws differ from state to state and how the idea of drinking responsibly evolved.

American Spirits is a national touring exhibition created by the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and curated by Daniel Okrent, Pulitzer Prize finalist and author of Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition. The exhibition includes 17 artifacts on loan from the Collection of the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

The GRPM will offer a variety of engaging community and educational programs to complement the exhibition. Programs vary from free with admission to an additional cost to participants.

Bathtub Gin Kit

Long Road Distillers, Grand Rapids’ first craft distillery, has created a special Prohibition-themed “bathtub gin” kit to commemorate the exhibition, which will be available at the distillery located at 537 Leonard Street NW, Grand Rapids (while supplies last). The kit includes a bottle of Long Road’s signature vodka, crafted from Michigan grain, botanicals for infusing, a second jar with a special edition Prohibition label, and instructions for infusing your gin at home. Long Road Distillers opened in early June of 2015 and is the first craft distillery in the history of the City of Grand Rapids.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Grand Rapids Public Museum on this exhibit commemorating such a unique period in American history. The rise and ultimate fall of prohibition changed the landscape for American distilleries and breweries, and only now, over 80 years later, are we seeing the resurgence of the local, craft beverage makers. The Long Road Bathtub Gin Kit is a great way to honor the ingenuity of those who tried to make the most of what they had available at the time” said Kyle Van Strien, owner, Long Road Distillers.

Long Road Distillers is proud to be part of the exciting revitalization that is taking place in the West Side neighborhood they call home, as well as being an active member of the thriving craft spirit culture around Michigan. Staying true to its name, Long Road takes no shortcuts in crafting their spirits, using thousands of pounds of grain each week from a family farm located less than 25 miles from the distillery to produce vodka, gin, whisky and other uniquely Michigan spirits.

Long Road’s spirits can be enjoyed by the taste or in one of their carefully crafted cocktails and paired with a farm-fresh meal in their bar and restaurant. If seeing the production area through the floor to ceiling windows from the bar doesn’t satisfy your curiosity, distillery tours are offered Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

Cocktail Classes

For the first three Tuesdays in October (October 6, 13, and 20), join the GRPM and New Holland Brewing for hands on cocktail classes in the Museum. Each class will be themed around a different Prohibition era spirit. Tickets are $10 and include general admission (Members receive discounted price).

Budweiser Clydesdales

The famous Budweiser Clydesdales will visit Grand Rapids in October in conjunction with the exhibit, on Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24 from 11 am to 1 pm on the grounds of the GPRM and the Holiday Inn Downtown parking lot. Guests can interact with the hitch team and take photographs with the iconic horses. Seeing the Budweiser Clydesdales is free of charge. The appearance is weather permitting. The event will take place as part of the partnership with Anheuser-Busch for the exhibition; the exhibit also includes Anheuser-Busch artifacts from the Prohibition era.

Legacy Awards Gala

Join the GRPM for the 7th Annual Jay & Betty Van Andel Legacy Awards Gala on Thursday, November 12 starting at 5:30 pm. In celebration of the exhibition “American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition” this event will be set in the era of flappers, bootleggers, temperance lobbyists, and organized crime legends. As the GRPM’s annual fundraiser, the community comes together to recognize three individuals for their dedication and commitment to bettering the quality of life in the region. Attire is roaring 20s fashion. Co-chaired by Dave & Carol Van Andel and Jim & Sue Williams. Tickets may be purchased by calling (616) 929-1754.

“Spirited Women” a Presentation by the Grand Rapids Women’s History Council

On November 17 at 6 pm join the Greater Grand Rapids Women’s History Council at the Grand Rapids Public Museum for a presentation, “Spirited Women: Grand Rapids and the Push for Temperance.” Presented by council members Ruth Van Steele and Julie Tabberer, this program will take a look at the local scene during 13 years of speakeasys and bathtub gin, reviewing the role the area women during the massive national temperance movement and the long push for women’s rights.

Repeal Day

December 5, 2015 marks the 82nd anniversary of the 21st Amendment, repealing the laws of Prohibition. Visit the Museum to take part in special Repeal Day activities including meeting characters who were important in passing the first and only amendment to repeal another amendment ever. The Museum’s Galleria will be filled with adult and children hands on activities to both celebrate and learn about our country’s history.

Join the Museum for a special soda making workshop from 10 am to 11:30 am for a special Repeal Day activity, also on December 5. This workshop will take place in the demo lab at the Grand Rapids Public Museum and can accommodate up to 20 people. Pre-registration is required, all ages welcome, recommended for ages 6-12. The workshop is $12 per person and includes general admission to the Museum.

Extra Events!

“Party Like it’s 1933” Repeal Day party at SpeakEZ

Step back in time to the first legal drinks after Prohibition at the Speak EZ Lounge on Saturday, December 5. Starting at 9 pm the Lounge will turn into 1933 with guests and staff partying to celebrate the 21st amendment. The event will include a live band, as well as ticket giveaways to the GRPM’s American Spirits exhibition! No advanced tickets necessary.

Prohibition style beer and food pairing dinner – exclusive tickets!

On January 12, 2016 in conjunction with the GRPM’s American Spirits exhibit, join Brewery Vivant for an exclusive prohibition beer and food pairing dinner. Tickets are limited and will go on sale later this year.

Last Call! Closing Weekend

Join us first the last call and last chance to see the exhibit on January 16 & 17, 2016. January 17 marks the 95th anniversary of the 18th amendment. On this weekend meet historic figures such as Wayne Wheeler and Carry Nation who helped bring about this constitutional amendment. As you journey through the history of Prohibition in American Spirits, hear in depth talks about the era, the culture and the changes that were seen in 1920. Saturday, January 16, join Speak EZ Lounge in the Meijer Theater at 3 pm for an exclusive mixology presentation.

1920s Era Family Activities:

Make your own marbles at the Grand Rapids Public Museum on November 14 from 10 am to 11:30 am. Learn how to make your own marbles out of clay, and while they bake play some of the original marble games that were popular in the 1920s! This workshop will take place in the demo lab at the Grand Rapids Public Museum and can accommodate up to 20 people. Pre-registration is required, all ages welcome, recommended for ages 6-12. The workshop is $12 per person and includes general admission to the Museum.

This holiday season, visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum for a variety of family friendly crafts and events during the annual Snowflake Break. Make your own themed snowflakes and punch tins, play a variety of board games, dress paper dolls in the Museum’s 1920’s fashion straight from our Collections. Activities are free with general admission. Visit the Museum on December 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30 and enjoy late nights in The Discovery of King Tut and American Spirits!

For a full schedule of events, please visit grpm.org.

Admission to American Spirits; The Rise and Fall of Prohibition will be included with general admission to the GRPM. This exhibit is free to Museum members.

This article was republished with permission from Dianna at Promote Michigan. We do our best to help with the promotion of the great State of Michigan!

A Cornucopia of Halloween Activities Offer a Fun-filled Bounty

October 9, 2015Holidays, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsFall Activities, Halloween, Victoria MullenJoanne

‘Tis the season for really bad autumn references, and we apologize. As writers, we’re expected to be witty (or die trying).

But it’s with the spirit of sharing in mind that we’re here to tell you about several fun Halloween- and autumn-themed events. Consider it a consolation prize for the shorter days and colder nights. Heads up: These events span the spectrum of activities, from music to a Zombie Beer Fest, to hayrides… perfect for adults. And kids. And sometimes both.

In order of appearance:

Now through October 31 – Haunted Hall
Haunted Hall at Muskegon Fairgrounds, 6621 Heights Ravenna Road, Fruitport, Mich., Fri. and Sat. 7 pm. Go here for more information.

Now through November 7 – Post Family Farm Activities
The 80-acre Post Family Farm is overflowing with pumpkins, squash, gourds and more. U-pick pumpkins, hayrides, bonfires, homemade (peanut-free) pumpkin donuts, corn mazes, the list goes on. Fun Farm Days are Monday-Thursday, noon-7 pm; Friday noon-6 pm through Nov. 7. Fall Festivals are every Saturday 10 am-6 pm through October 25. 5081 Bauer Rd. Hudsonville. Call 616.669.1964 or visit the website for info.

Now through winter – Hayrides and Sleigh Rides
Fruit Ridge Hayrides and Sleigh Rides (courtesy of Zeke & Zoey, the team of Belgian draft horses), 11966 Fruit Ridge Ave Kent City. Fall hayrides* are $7/person. Call 616.887.5052 or visit the website for more info. *Hayrides are wheelchair accessible.

October 9 – Opening day of The Haunt
Celebrating 15 years of fear at 2070 Waldorf NW! New themes, the latest technology and one of the largest casts in the state. Visit the website for dates and times. General admission is $20. NOT recommended for kids under 12. Children 5 and younger will not be allowed in any attraction.

October 9-22 – ‘Drunk Stoned Brilliant Dead: The Story of the National Lampoon’
Biography/comedy. The film screens at 8 pm each evening at the UICA.

October 9-31 – ‘Forest of Fear’
Fundraiser for the Kentwood Jaycees. Are you afraid of the dark? This West Michigan haunted attraction has been entertaining thrill-seekers for over ten years. Interactive, self-guided walk through five chilling acres of haunted woods and swamps. Tickets: $15/person. Fast Pass: $5/person. Go here for dates and times. 8758 Patterson Ave. SE, Caledonia, MI.

October 10 – Music at Pyramid Scheme
Pentagram, Electric Citizen, and Satan’s Satyrs perform at the Pyramid Scheme, 68 Commerce SW, 8 pm.

October 17 – Backroads Barry County Bike Ride
Saturday from 8 am to 1:30 pm. The ride begins and ends at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, 701 W. Cloverdale Rd. Hastings. Visit the website for more info.

October 17 – Second Annual Zombie Beer Fest and Costume Contest
At the Calder Plaza, 250 Monroe Ave. NW. The fun starts at 4 pm. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winning costumes. Tickets are $39-$49. Call 616.485.6637 for more info.

October 17 – Ballpark Ale Fest
At Fifth Third Ballpark, 1-5 pm, 4500 West River Dr. NW. More than 80 craft beers will be featured.

October 20 – Meanwhile Movie, “The Exorcist”
At the Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St. SE at 8 pm. Go here for more info.

October 22-24 and October 29-31 – Horror-themed Musical Parody: Halloween!
The Stark Turn Players’
7^th Annual Halloween Classic Horror-themed Musical Parody: Halloween! based on the 1978 John Carpenter independent thriller at Dog Story Theatre, 8 pm Oct 22-24 and 29-30; 3 pm Oct 25 & 31. 7 Jefferson SE. Tickets: $12/adults, $8/students and seniors. For more info, call 616.425.9234 or visit the website. BONUS: There’s a Halloween party and costume contest following the October 31 show!

October 24 – Bissell Howl-O-Ween Hoof and Woof
A howlin’ good time for the whole family. Get ready for an afternoon of wag-worthy fun to raise awareness for animal adoption and celebrate the special bond between dogs and families. FREE 12-3 pm, Gainey Athletic Field, 1661 East Paris Ave. SE. Go here for more info.

October 27 – Meanwhile Movie, “The Shining”
At the Wealthy Theatre, 8 pm.

October 30 – Casino Parade and Costume Contest; “Here Come the Mummies”; Photo Contest
Firekeepers Casino parade and costume contest, 7 pm. Top 10 costumes win a share of $9,750 in cash and red hot credits. 1^st place $2,000 cash and $3,000 in red hot credits. 11177 East Michigan Ave., Battle Creek, MI. Get the rules here.

“Here Come the Mummies” at Firekeepers Casino. Doors open at 8 pm, show begins at 9 pm. Purchase tickets here.

Firekeepers Photo contest Oct 30-Nov 1. Upload your best shot taken at Firekeepers for a chance to win $500 in red hot credits. Get the rules here.

October 30 – Dia de los Muertos
The Grand Rapids Main Library at 111 Library St. NE, observes the Mexican tradition “Dia de los Muertos” (Day of the Dead). Community members will honor deceased loved ones with altars that will be on display for three days at the library.

October 30 – Monster Bash
Monster Bash: Ferrysburg Fire Department, 6-8 pm, 17290 Roosevelt Rd., Ferrysburg, MI. Call 616.843.5028 for more info.

October 30 – Museum Trick or Treat – Booseum Center
Kids, come in your Halloween costumes and trick-or-Treat at the Museum. Lakeshore Museum Center, 430 W. Clay, Muskegon, 4-5 pm. Visit the website for more info.

October 30 – Glow in the Park
Glow in the Park, 7-10 pm in Beery Field, Downtown Douglas, Mich. Music, food, drink, plenty of glow-in-the-dark activities for the kids. Come in full glowing costume or get your glow on when you get there with face painting, glow balloons, black light areas, and a merchandise booth. Proceeds go to City of Douglas Halloween Fund to pay for the big parade and other Halloween activities.

October 31 – Founders Halloween Party
9 pm at Founders Brewing Co., 235 Grandville Ave SW.

October 31 – Douglas Nighttime Halloween Parade for Adults
Leave the kids with the sitter and don’t miss the rise of the Pumpkin King from the ashes at 10 pm! This event draws thousands of people from Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and Wisconsin. Get your freak on at the Halloween Parade for Adults, 9:30 pm. Downtown Douglas, 35 South Main St., Douglas. Visit the website for more info.

12th Annual Pumpkin Path on the Horizon

October 8, 2015Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local Food, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsLamar Park, Pumpkin PathJoanne

The changing leaves and cool wind can only mean one thing; it is time for the City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department´s annual free Pumpkin Path event for kids and families.
Pumpkin Path will be held on Oct. 10 at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. This year the event will be held from the spooky hours of 4-6 p.m. Local businesses, clubs and organizations will haunt spaces along the path and will hand out candy, coupons and other goodies.

“The Pumpkin Path was developed as a safe family focused celebration for the fall, providing an alternative to traditional Halloween events,” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, director of community services for the City of Wyoming. “Pumpkin Path gives families the perfect opportunity to interact with neighborhood businesses while enjoying the outdoors, Lamar Park and the beauty of the fall season.”

While attendees may come for the treats, they should make sure to save time to get a temporary tattoo, jump in the bounce house and play life sized games. Participants are welcome to come in costume or come as they are.

At the 2014 Pumpkin Path event, 70 local businesses and organizations served approximately 5,000 children and parents.

Wyoming Now-Kentwood Now citizen Journalist Douglas Broek visited last year and had a blast!

Pinery Park Little League on the Right Track

October 7, 2015Hard News, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, SportsMayor Jack Poll, Mike DeWitt, Pinery Park Little League, Wyoming City CouncilJoanne

By: Mike DeWitt

Following weeks of speculation about whether the Pinery Park Little League (PPLL) would exist after 60 years of operation, the PPLL and the City of Wyoming agreed on a new contract to keep the league in charge of youth baseball.

Pinery Park Little League was in jeopardy of losing its contract with the City of Wyoming and Pinery Park due to a lack of transparent bookkeeping and the loss of nonprofit 501(c)(3) status.

The League made tremendous progress ironing out those issues over the past two weeks.

“I guess it took some major deadlines in order to have this contract happen,” exclaimed Mayor Jack Poll at the October 5 City Council Meeting. “I think it’s a good agreement. It protects both the park and those involved with the PPLL.”

There is new leadership within the League as almost an entirely new board was voted in during the elections on September 30. Mayor Poll was in attendance and cast his vote for the League leaders.

It is clear the new board wants the new contract and agreement to work. The members are shouldering a large responsibility to meet the requirements of the contract. The new board will have to prepare and show financial statements to the fiduciary handling the league’s financials. The PPLL board will meet on a regular, scheduled basis to stay on top of happenings throughout the league.

One of the main hiccups was the loss of 501(c)(3) status for the League back in 2011. The IRS has received and is reviewing the PPLL’s application to reinstate that status. The League must now wait 60-120 days for an answer from the IRS.

“The Pinery Park Little League knows how to run a league, they’ve been doing it a long time,” said Mayor Poll.

Now the league, the City, the parents, and the players can focus on the most important aspect… PLAY BALL!

Interview With An ArtPrize Finalist: Ann and Steve Loveless

October 7, 2015Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our CitiesAnn Loveless, ArtPrize, ArtPrize Seven, Colleen Pierson, Northwood Awakening, Public Vote, Public Vote Top 20, Steve LovelessJoanne

Northwood Awakening by Ann and Steve Loveless

Steve Loveless took time to talk about 'Northwood Awakening' — Steve Loveless took time to talk about ‘Northwood Awakening’

Round 1 of the ArtPrize Seven popular vote is out and there are 20 finalists hoping their piece snags the top prize!

Steve Loveless and his wife Ann took some time to talk to Wyoming Now Kentwood Now about their piece Northwood Awakening and the idea on photography as realism.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your piece you have here at ArtPrize.

I’m Steve Loveless from Frankfurt, Michigan. I’m here with my wife Ann Loveless at the Gerald R. Ford Museum with our entry entitled Northwood Awakening. It is a photofiber combination piece. It’s a photograph at one end of the composition and a textile at the opposite end.

What was the inspiration for your piece?

It’s a scene depicting the springtime woods, trillium, and flowers in Benzie County along M22. We like to have people look at our piece and feel like they could be there. It gives them a sense of placement and a sense of belonging in a specific location.

Ann utilizes textiles to complete the piece

Your piece starts as a photograph on one end. Talk a little bit about that.

Our piece also is communicating the concept of the realism of photography – the perceived realism of photography versus the interpretation of textile. So, as you view the quilt from one end to the other, it gradually transforms. Most people can’t even really tell the difference from the photography into the textile because it’s such a gradual transformation. The transformation is such that you question where does one end and where does one begin?

For myself, I ask the question, is there a difference? A difference where one ends and one begins? Because, photography arguably is a very interpretive medium in the first place, but we’re all taught to think of photography as realism.

I think you must be a little proud of your wife as she handles the crowd while you talk to us, talk a little bit about her.

I’m very proud of her. This is actually Ann’s fourth year exhibiting at ArtPrize. Two years ago, in 2013, she was the first place public vote recipient with her textile ‘Sleeping Bear Dune Lakeshore.’ We’re a great team and we enjoy sharing our work with the ArtPrize community!

Editor’s Note – The interview was held with Steve Loveless as his wife Ann talked to the ArtPrize crowd about their work.

Northwood Awakening can be seen at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. You can vote for Northwood Awakening here.

GWCRA Encourages ‘Letters of Approach’ from Wyoming Nonprofits

October 7, 2015Education, Non-Profits, Our Citiesfunding, grants, GWCRA, letter of approachJoanne

Great news for Wyoming, Michigan-based nonprofits! The Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance (GWCRA) now awards grants several times a year, up from just once annually. And, it is much easier to apply. Gone is the lengthy, very detailed application.

The new application process now requires an initial ‘letter of approach,’ which may be submitted at any time. The letter may not exceed two pages, must include a description of the project, affirm the purpose/need addressed, identify a target population, and indicate the anticipated amount of the request.

GRWCRA’s Board of Directors will review letters on a timely basis and invite those organizations it wishes to consider funding to complete a full application. Letters of approach are only accepted via email to the attention of Rebecca Rynbrandt, Board Secretary at rynbranb@wyomingmi.gov.

The Board reserves the right to seek applications specific to any area of interest and/or target funding to specific initiatives at any given time. Types of support include equipment, seed money/program development and operating support. Grant amounts typically range from $500 to $3,000. Review the GWCRA’s grant history here.

If your organization is invited to submit a full application, it will be due two weeks from the date of invitation.

The GWCRA strives to support nonprofit organizations and grassroots charitable causes that improve the fabric of the community. Since 2011, the organization has awarded over $40,000 to area schools, nonprofits, neighborhood associations and grassroots organizations in support of educational programs, community projects, disaster response, scholarships and more. All of the donations received or fundraised by the GWCRA are awarded back into the community.

GWCRA is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the greater Wyoming community. The Alliance is established to provide a charitable outlet for citizens and businesses eager to make a sustainable and immediate impact to the very fabric of the community.

Artwork by Andy Warhol

ArtPrize Entry by Wyoming, Mich. Artist Makes the Final 20

October 6, 2015Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our CitiesArtPrize, artwork, Craig Merchant, Top 20, Wyoming ArtistJoanne

Inspired by nature, people and the relationships that they share, Craig Merchant creates art in multiple mediums, expressionistic color and juxtaposition of scale.

Located in a shallow pond on the west bank of the Grand River, Merchant’s time-based ArtPrize entry, “Movement” comprises several “hands” fashioned of plastic gloves that are installed floating on the water. Inside each hand is a small mechanism that allows it to move and turn freely through space. Each hand is illuminated from within, providing another interesting element.

“The rhythmic motion of the hands can be heard as they move, creating a mesmerizing and hypnotic sound,” said Merchant. “It makes each viewer’s experience unique.”

Although the piece may take on a variety of interpretations, Merchant said that it was designed to represent a movement: A group of people working together to advance their shared political, social or artistic ideas. His artist statement includes a quote by Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”

“I hope the viewer is inspired to translate the artwork into their own life and current events in our society,” Merchant said.

The 28-year-old artist grew up in a secluded wooded environment and learned early on that all creatures play an important role. These early encounters may be seen in his artwork through large-scale depictions of insects, frogs and fish.

“I continued to expand on this idea by representing the relationships that are shared between man and the environment,” Merchant’s artist statement continued. “I often use subjective colors and distortion of scale to present an ordinary object in a unique way. It is my goal to connect with the viewer and create a kind of internal disturbance so that they are no longer viewing the art, they are experiencing the art.”

This is Merchant’s fourth year participating in ArtPrize and every year has been rewarding in its own way, he said. “I have had the opportunity to meet some great people and have had many constructive conversations about art. ArtPrize provides a unique platform to display artwork that would not normally be presented to the public on such a large scale.”

A graduate of the University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts degree, Merchant currently lives in Grand Rapids. He studied printmaking and drawing, however his recent works include paintings, sculptures and installations. Merchant primarily exhibits in galleries throughout the state of Michigan and also has work on display in California as well as the United States Embassy in Botswana, Africa.

Interview With an ArtPrize Finalist: Andy Sacksteder

October 6, 2015Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our CitiesAndy Sacksteder, ArtPrize Interviews, ArtPrize Seven, Colleen Pierson, Popular vote top 20, Reach and SplashJoanne

Andy Sacksteder - An ArtPrize Finalist — Andy Sacksteder – An ArtPrize Finalist

Round 1 of the ArtPrize Seven popular vote is out and there are 20 finalists hoping their piece snags the top prize!

Andy Sacksteder took some time to talk to Wyoming Now Kentwood Now about his piece REACH and SPLASH and experience with ArtPrize.

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your name and where you’re from, and your piece you have here at ArtPrize.

My name is Andy Sacksteder and I’m from Port Clinton, Ohio. My piece is called REACH and SPLASH and it’s a tribute to youth and spontaneity.

How long did it take you to finish ‘Reach and Splash’?

For me to sculpt it into clay, it took about 8 months. After that I took it to a foundry to cast it into bronze. That process takes another 4 – 4 1/2 months.

What is the best part of seeing your work displayed here at ArtPrize Seven?

The best part is that so many people get to see and enjoy it. It’s also great hearing all the feedback from the people taking in the art here in Grand Rapids.

What is some of the feedback that you receive?

Being in the water really helps, it brings the piece to life. That brings a little more attention than maybe it would otherwise. So far, it’s still early, but all of the feedback has been positive!

Is this your first year at ArtPrize?

No, this is my third year at ArtPrize. Two years ago I was lucky enough to win a prize. Because of that, I had to skip last year. I was right here at the Ford Museum with my last two ArtPrize pieces as well.

What was your last piece of art here at ArtPrize?

The piece was called ‘Uplifting.’ It was a Native American man lifting up a Native American woman and they had water coming up through them and running over them.

So, will you be here the entire duration of ArtPrize?

I am. I’ll be here the whole time. It’s such a good time to connect with the people, and if the people connect with you, then they connect with your art a lot faster.

One last question, are you an artist by trade?

No, actually, I didn’t start sculpting until I was 52 and I just taught myself!

Andy’s piece can be seen at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. You can vote for his piece here.

‘Final 20’ Public Vote at ArtPrize Seven Is Here!

October 5, 2015Local Business, Local Entertainment, Our CitiesArtPrize Seven, Grand Rapids, Public Vote, Public Vote Top 20, Top 20Joanne

ArtPrize, the radically open international art competition decided by public vote and expert jury, today announced the twenty artist entries selected from among 1,550 eligible works during the first round of public voting that will move on to Round 2 Voting with the hopes of winning the world’s largest art prize.

Hundreds of visitors filled Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids on Sunday afternoon as ArtPrize Founder, Rick DeVos and Executive Director, Christian Gaines revealed the public’s top picks.

“The public vote is absolutely vital to the ArtPrize event, as year over year tens of thousands of visitors take the time to diligently explore hundreds of entries and discover their favorites,” noted Christian Gaines, ArtPrize Executive Director. “These deliberations reveal new layers of engagement — sparking an often intense and passionate dialogue around why art is important.”

Round 1 Voting closed Saturday night at 11:59 p.m., and 30,994 visitors had cast 377,302 votes for art, elevating five artist entries from each category — 2-D, 3-D, Installation and Time-Based. These twenty ArtPrize Seven entries will move on to the second round of voting, with the chance of winning over $200,000 in cash awards.

“Every year the conversations surrounding the Public and Juried Shortlists evolve and grow and it’s incredibly inspiring to witness,” noted Kevin Buist, ArtPrize Exhibitions Director. “ArtPrize is a catalyst for debate and discussion and the dynamic between these differing opinions and selections is often where the most fruitful and intriguing conversations lie.”

The ArtPrize Seven Final 20 includes four prize-winning Artists from 2013, each of whom are displaying in the same venue as their 2013 entry.

In no particular order, the ArtPrize Seven Public Vote Final 20 are as follows:

Two-Dimensional

▪   As Above at Grand Rapids Art Museum, by Judith Braun from New York, New York
▪   Triple Play at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, by Anni Crouter from Flint, Michigan, winner of the 2nd Place $75,000 public vote award at ArtPrize 2013
▪   michigan petoskey stone at DeVos Place Convention Center, by Randall Libby from Manistee, Michigan
▪   Northwood Awakening at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, by Loveless PhotoFiber from Frankfort, Michigan, winner of the $200,000 ArtPrize 2013 Public Vote Grand Prize
▪   In a Promised Land… at DeVos Place Convention Center, by Shawn Michael Warren from Harvey, Illinois

Three-Dimensional

▪   Greatest Generation/Beta Team/November at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, by Fred Cogelow from Willmar Minnesota
▪   The Race at DeVos Place Convention Center, by Kurt Swanson from Grand Rapids, Michigan
▪   Rolling Down at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, by Kroeze Krew from Grand Rapids, Michigan
▪   Seasons at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, by Robin Protz from New Hartford, Connecticut, winner of the 7th Place $5,000 public vote award at ArtPrize 2013
▪   MAYA 7624 at Kendall College of Art & Design / Fed Galleries at KCAD, by Seungmo Park from New Jersey City, New Jersey

Installation

▪   REACH and SPLASH at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, by Andy Sacksteder from Port Clinton, Ohio, winner of the 3rd Place $50,000 public vote award at ArtPrize 2013
▪   Balancing Act at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, by Calvin Babich from Toledo, Ohio
▪   TIME & AGAIN Grand Rapids at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, by Midge Bolt from Pepin, Wisconsin and Doreen Gunnick from Kentwood, Michigan
▪   SENSI at at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, by Gianluca Traina from Ventimiglia de Sicilia, Italy
▪   The Grand Rapid Tape Drawing at TowerPinkster — Architects | Engineers, by The Tape Art Crew from Providence, Rhode Island

Time-Based

▪   Movement at Grand Rapids Public Museum, by Craig Merchant from Wyoming, Michigan
▪   Whisper at 250 Monroe, by Emily Kennerk from Zionsville, Indiana
▪   BREAKTHROUGH at DeVos Place Convention Center, by Breakthrough Team from Ada, Michigan
▪   Hometown Hero at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, by Pamela Alderman from Grand Rapids, Michigan
▪   Symphony of Gestures at Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, by Sara Dittrich and Benjamin Buchanan from Baltimore, Maryland

The top three winners from 2013 once again stand the chance of winning a cash prize at ArtPrize Seven — with each returning to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum for this year’s competition.

Ann Loveless, ArtPrize 2013 $200,000 Grand Prize winner for her quilt Sleeping Bear Dune Lakeshore, returns to ArtPrize Seven alongside husband Steven Loveless with a collaborative piece.

Anni Crouter finished second in 2013 — taking home the $75,000 prize for her hyper realistic painting, Polar Expressed.

Andy Stacksteader took home the third place $50,000 prize in 2013 for his sculpture, Uplifting.

Robin Protz, who also collected a $5,000 prize in 2013 for Myth-or-Logic, is once again a public vote favorite at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.

ArtPrize visitors will have one more opportunity to voice their opinions and decide the winners of over $200,000 in prizes. Round 2 Voting will run through October 8 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Visitors can cast up to twenty votes, one per finalist — ArtPrize encourages visitors to consider voting for at least one entry in each category. The winners of both the public and juried awards totaling $500,000 will be announced at the Seventh Annual ArtPrize Awards on October 9.

Wyoming, Mich. ArtPrize Artist Explores Interpretation of Structures

October 2, 2015Education, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Citiesacrylic painting, ArtPrize, Karin Nelson, McKay Tower, Red AwningsJoanne

035871-000002 — Karin Nelson’s 2015 ArtPrize Entry, ‘Red Awnings, McKay Tower’

Full-time artist, Karin Nelson, paints in acrylics. For the last couple of years, Nelson’s self-taught path has steered her to explore the interpretation of structures. It’s an addiction, she said.

Whether it’s stately city buildings or aged and weathered barns, Nelson is drawn to the masculine lines of manmade landmarks, which symbolize strength and protection. Her 2015 ArtPrize entry, ‘Red Awnings, McKay Tower,’ may be seen at the Women’s City Club, 254 East Fulton.

“This piece began with a wash of burnt umber, which I purposely allowed to show through in various areas, depicting the golden effects of sunlight,” Nelson said. “The contrasting edge where the shaded side of the building meets the sunlit side of the building is an oft-repeated theme in my paintings of both urban and rural structures.”

The acrylic-on-gallery-wrapped-canvas painting measures 40″H x 30″W.

Over 200 of Nelson’s paintings reside in public, corporate and private collections. She has received multiple awards, been accepted into many juried exhibitions, and has had multiple appearances on television, radio and press. She won Tulip Time’s 2014 Poster Contest. The owner of Lake Effect Gallery, Holland, Mich. described her winning piece, ‘Resilience,’ as “quite a departure from the posters of the past – very dramatic, no bright rainbow colors.”

Nelson lives in Wyoming, Mich. with her husband of 38 years. They have three grown children, a son-in-law and two granddaughters.

See more of her work here. Nelson welcomes visitors to her home gallery/studio by appointment. Call 616.723.6600.

ArtPrize Seven Category Jurors Reveal Their Shortlists

October 1, 2015Local Business, Local Entertainment, Our CitiesArtPrize Seven, Installation, Jurors Shortlist, outstanding venue, three-dimensional, Time-based, two-dimensionalJoanne

ArtPrize, the radically open international art competition decided by public vote and expert jury, hosted the fourth annual Jurors’ Shortlist Event at the ArtPrize HUB Theatre on September 28.

Four ArtPrize Seven category award jurors revealed their shortlists of five artist entries in the categories of 2D, 3D, Installation, and Time-based. These twenty finalists will be in the running to win their respective $12,500 category awards and ultimately the $200,000 Juried Grand Prize.

A fifth category award juror selected five ArtPrize venues to compete for the $12,500 Outstanding Venue juried award. The juried category award and Grand Prize winners will be announced at the ArtPrize Awards on October 9.

The category award jurors are:

Justine Ludwig: Director of Exhibitions / Senior Curator at Dallas Contemporary (2-D)
Sarah Urist Green: Indianapolis-based curator, creator and host of The Art Assignment (3-D)
Shari Frilot: Los Angeles-based Senior Programmer of Sundance Film Festival and Curator of New Frontier at Sundance (Time-Based)
Robin Cembalest: Editor and Art Critic (Installation)
Steven Matijcio: Cincinnati-based Curator of the Contemporary Arts Center (Outstanding Venue)

“The ArtPrize Seven category jurors each bring a unique perspective to the event, and have nominated works to their shortlists that are relevant and of the time within their respective categories,” commented Kevin Buist, ArtPrize Director of Exhibitions. “The selected works will challenge visitors to look more deeply at the range of entries spread across this year’s event, as Round 1 of the public vote continues.”

The 3-D juried category award is generously presented by Haworth. Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University presents the $200,000 Juried Grand Prize at ArtPrize Seven.

The Public Vote, central to the ArtPrize event, is sponsored by Meijer. The public vote category awards are presented by Foremost Insurance Group (2-D), Amway (3-D), and DTE Energy (Time-Based).

The five category award jurors have revealed their shortlisted picks within their respective categories. In no particular order, they are as follows:

Two-Dimensional

GANGRENE at Boardwalk GR Condominiums, by John Haverty from Marion, MA
Guryong Village in Seoul at GRCC Collins Art Gallery, by Soohyun Kim from Chicago, IL
A Fearless Brother Project Presents: Realistic Neglects – A Graphic Series at Grand Rapid Art Museum, by Akibang Monroe O’Bryant from Kentwood, MI
Fireside Chats at Craft House, by Britt Spencer from Savannah, GA
Fragile Environments at First (Park) Congregational, by Diana Wege from New York, NY

Three-Dimensional

Mimesis at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, by Kunihiro Akinaga from Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
Uplift at Vandenberg (Calder) Plaza and Grand Rapids CIty Hall, by Jarrod Beck from New York, NY
The Last Supper at Kendall College of Art & Design, by Julie Green from Corvallis, OR
Relic at Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, by Tamara Kostianovsky from Brooklyn, NY
Anishinaabensag Biimskowebshkigewag (Native Kids Ride Bikes) at Grand Rapids Art Museum, by Dylan Miner from East Lansing, MI

SculpturalPaiting — the sculptural painting by Jovanni Luna

Installation

Constructing on Deconstructing at 250 Monroe, by Carolina Borja and Amy Toscani from Minneapolis, MN
Stripes for St. Joseph at SiTE:LAB / The Rumsey Street Project, by Nick Kline from New York, NY
the sculptural painting at Spiral, by Jovanni Luna from Nashville, TN
In Our Element at Front Avenue under US-131, by Ruben Ubiera from Miami, FL
Something Old Something New at Monroe Community Church, by Lisa Williamson from Memphis, TN

Time-Based

For the toward at SiTE:LAB / The Rumsey Street Project, by BOOMERANG from Gambier, OH
T-Rex at Waterfront Film Festival, by Drea Cooper & Zack Canepari from Oakland, CA
Higher Ground at SiTE:LAB / The Rumsey Street Project, by Kate Gilmore from Queens, NY
Whisper at 250 Monroe, by Emily Kennerk from Zionsville, IN
That Was Then at Kendall College of Art & Design / Fed Galleries @ KCAD, by Prince Thomas from Houston, TX

Outstanding Venue

The ArtPrize awards structure brings parallel tracks of public vote and juried awards totaling $500,000. Two $200,000 awards are decided by public vote and expert jury, and an additional $100,000 in prizes is awarded to the top entries in each category. During the 19 days of the seventh annual event, 1,550 artist entries representing 48 countries and 42 U.S. states are competing for these entry prizes, while 162 venues across Grand Rapids vie for the Outstanding Venue juried award.

Muskegon celebrates slapstick comic genius in weekend film fest

October 1, 2015Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local History, Movie Review, Our Cities, Recreation, Senior LivingBuster Keaton, International Buster Keaton SocietyJoanne

“The best summers of my life were spent in the cottage Pop had built on Lake Muskegon in 1908.” Buster Keaton in his autobiography, “My Wonderful World of Slapstick”

How did actors survive hot summers a 100 years ago, when theaters without air conditioning shut down for the season? About 200 of those performers chose to head to Muskegon where an artist colony of vaudeville performers flourished in the 1900s. Buster Keaton and his performing parents joined their fellow artists in card-playing, fun in the sun and the bracing waters of Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan.

Those glory days are celebrated this weekend with the return of the International Buster Keaton Society to the city Buster Keaton claimed as his hometown. The group numbers between 400 to 500 members, some from as far away as the United Kingdom, Germany and Canada. Annual attendance for the convention is usually between 50-100. 88 people are registered for the convention this year!

Society member Ron Pesch, who lives in Muskegon, will conduct a private tour for convention-goers to explore the neighborhood where Keaton lived, and other areas in the Bluffton community where the big names of the vaudeville circuit partied and sunbathed during their off-season.

1924: American comedian Buster Keaton (1895-1966) sitting in the funnel of a ship in a scene from the film 'The Navigator'. — 1924: American comedian Buster Keaton (1895-1966) sitting in the funnel of a ship in a scene from the film ‘The Navigator’.

If you’re inclined to ask, “Who’s that?” when you hear Buster Keaton’s name, you can probably be forgiven. His star shone most brightly after vaudeville waned in the 1920’s. As a major star of silent film, Keaton’s comic routines and deadpan expression landed him equal billing with comic geniuses such as Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd–and if you’re still saying, “Who?” you probably like video games more than movies.

But Pesch says Keaton’s influence is cited by a number of major stars including Johnny Depp, Jackie Chan, and even Drew Barrymore. Pesch added, “The first ten minutes of the Pixar classic ‘Wall-E’ are filled with references to Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin.”

On Saturday night, October 3, 2015, at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7:30), two Buster Keaton films will be screened for fans, “The Railrodder” and “Battling Butler” at the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts. Director Gerald Potterton will attend, who actually directed Keaton in his film “The Railrodder.” Potterton is best known for directing the cult classic, “Heavy Metal.” Dennis Scott will perform on the Barton Theater Organ, and Pesch notes, “Anyone who experiences a silent film in that theater with the organ accompaniment will be a Keaton fan forever.” Tickets are $8 per person or $21 for the whole family. For more information, visit www.frauenthal.org .

For more information about the artist colony in Muskegon.

Editor’s Note: Lake Muskegon was changed to its proper name of Muskegon Lake.

Calling All Colors Looking for Volunteers

September 25, 2015Area Education, Education, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsAquinas College, Calling All Colors, Racial Education, Racial EqualityJoanne

Are you passionate about promoting racial equity? This is your chance to make a difference in the life of a student!

Calling All Colors has an urgent need for volunteers to facilitate a small group dialogue at our upcoming middle and high school conferences. It’s fun! It’s easy! It’s rewarding!

Volunteers are provided with all dialogue materials and may be paired with a co-facilitator if preferred. Just 2.5 hours of your time will have a lifetime impact on a middle or high school student.

Invite your friends, family and co-workers to get involved!

Calling All Colors fosters inclusive school communities through a year-long program that features two conferences, creates a safe place to talk about race, and provide tools for increasing positive racial impacts for middle and high school students.

Volunteers are needed at the following fall conferences from 9 – 11:30 a.m.:

Lakeshore middle school conference – Monday, October 5, Hope College, Holland
Lakeshore high school conference – Tuesday, October 6, Hope College, Holland
Kent County high school conference – Tuesday, October 20, Aquinas College, Grand Rapids

Volunteers are welcome to assist at one or more conferences.

To better prepare for the small group dialogue, volunteers are encouraged to attend a training session. Alternative training is available if you are unable to attend a training session.

Monday, September 28, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Hope College, Holland
Wednesday, October 14, 5;30 – 6:30 p.m., Aquinas College, Grand Rapids

Click here to sign up to volunteer or email program director Sarah Salguera at program@ethnicdiversity.org, or call 616.846.9074.