Category Archives: WKTV Projects

ArtPrize early: Yellow Ribbon sculpture, inspired by local veterans art project, to be unveiled at public event

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  • Retired Chaplain John Hooglund, from Holland Home at Breton Woods, produced this work as part of veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • Veteran Jurgen Nitzsche produced this work as part of veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)
  • A scene from veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Kent County Veterans Services had planned an in-doors Yellow Ribbon Gala this week to unveil the selected works of more than 100 local veterans created during veteran art workshops in 2020 and 2021, and led by local artist Pamela Alderman. But pandemic concerns caused that to be canceled.

But Alderman will still be showing off selected works which inspired and are included as part of her Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize work at an event Saturday, Aug. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., behind Grand Valley State University’s L.V. Eberhard Center, on the Blue Bridge, in Grand Rapids. The program starts at 10:30 a.m.
 

The event will include Alderman’s Yellow Ribbon sculpture, made in collaboration with several veterans, as well as other individual art pieces made by veterans during the art workshops and also led by Alderman.

There will be live music performed by singer/songwriter and Navy veteran Drew Nelson. There will also be snacks and activities for kids, and county Veterans Services Officers on site to answer questions and set up future appointments for veterans and their families. Additionally the Veterans Services office will have a pop-up shop for making Kent County Veteran ID cards.

But the stars of the show will be the works of the veterans and how their works — and their stories — inspired Alderman’s work.

Pamela Alderman, the lead artist of the veterans art project which led to the Yellow Ribbon ArtPrize entry, with her son, who is in her first year in the military. (Supplied/Pamela Alderman)

“The community veteran ArtPrize work took two years to develop,” Alderman said to WKTV. “Over 100 veterans participated. Some families participated with three generations.”

About 14 veteran art workshops were held throughout the pandemic, some indoors and some outdoors in the Veterans Services parking lot. Some art supplies were event delivered door to door.

 

“The finished work (Alderman’s sculpture) showcases four Kent County veterans pieces, but on Saturday, we will highlight the work of over 100 veterans and family members, plus loved ones,” Alderman said.
 

The Saturday event will also highlight how Yellow Ribbon evolved into a bigger ArtPrize project with Michael Hyacinthe from [Has Heart] at Veterans Memorial Park. This ArtPrize venue, co-curated by Hyacinthe and Alderman, will host the work of 21 veteran entries along with the Yellow Ribbon work.

For Alderman, the two-year project was as much a passion as a project.

“I’m a veteran wife. My husband served as a Naval Officer for 20 years,” said. “I’m also a Blue Star Mother. My youngest son is training as a Navy pilot, and son-in-law also serves as Navy helicopter pilot.”

Artworks tell veteran’s stories

One of the works to be displayed, an abstract vision including a helicopter flying, was created by retired Chaplain John Hooglund from Holland Home at Breton Woods.

According to suppled material, Hooglund worked as an U.S. Army chaplain for 30 years. In Vietnam, he travelled by helicopter with two gunships. Stateside, he helped integrate church services across racial and gender lines. At the Pentagon, he worked with more than 1,400 chaplains — and assisted them in performing their most difficult duties.

“Once, when he walked into a bar wearing his chaplain’s uniform to deliver some sad news, the father burst into tears as soon as he saw him,” Alderman relayed to WKTV in an email. “Those kinds of experiences still follow John decades later.”

Another work, another abstract vision of a flag and a service member saluting, was created by Jurgen Nitzsche, who detailed his service in a statement relayed by Alderman.

“I served in the U.S. Army 394th station hospital unit for six years,” Nitzsche said. “In 1969, I was honorably discharged … During my time in service, I learned mechanical engineering and people skills, which helped me to become an engineer and plant manager. I believe the military is a great start in life for any young person. I’m 80 years old, and I am proud to have served in the United States Army, to help keep our country free and safe.”

Many local veterans groups helped

In addition to the support of Kent County Veterans Services, Alderman also thanked several local groups for their assistance with the workshops and with her project.

Among the groups supporting the project were 92 For 22 and the Kent County Veterans Treatment Court; Ottawa-North Kent Blue Star Mothers and Marne American Legion; Blue Star Mothers of South Kent and American Legion 305; Blue Star Mothers of Ionia, Kent and Montcalm and Ray I. Booth American Legion; Grand Rapids Home for Veterans; Holland Home; Finish the Mission; WINC: For All Women Veterans; and the GVSU Veterans Upward Bound Program.

For this Metro Cruise group, it’s not just about the cars — but the stories and the friendships, too

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Deb Beek with her 1966 Chevy Stepside Pickup c10 (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Deb Beek’s interest in painting cars started because “I was told I couldn’t.”

So when her husband, Al (who was not the person who told her no), was getting ready to paint his 1964 Dodge Polara, she told him she wanted to paint it.

Al Beek with his 1955 Ford Panel Truck (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

“I was like sure,” Al said. “We decided to do a red and I went with a DuPont paint which is an easy paint to use.

“When she was done, the paint job was just beautiful. It was as good as what the big body shops do.”

It was so good, that the car even won a few awards, but after a few years of owning the Polara, Al decided he wanted a new project. So he sold it and picked up a 1955 Ford Panel Truck for himself and a 1966 Chevy Stepside Pickup c10 for Deb. This time he asked Deb to paint the cars with the couple working as team, he did the body work, she did the painting.

Collectors love their cars but they love sharing their stories even more and it’s the story like the Beeks that bring them together and before, during, and after Metro Cruise. One such group of ten that the Beeks are part of meet every Wednesday night at Frankie V’s, sharing stories about cars, cruises and life.

“It is a unique group of individuals,” said Alan Wright, the owner of a 1958 Thunderbird. Unique in that most of the people in this group have been attending the Metro Cruise since is started in 2005. That distinction earned the group a special honor, they are the cars and drivers who bring the Miss Metro Cruise contestants to the stage.

Jeff Lombard with his 1973 AMC Gremlin (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

“I had one who came up and she was tall with high heels and she folded herself right into my car,” laughed Jeff Lombard, who owns a 1973 AMC Gremlin.

“It is kind of interesting to have people come check it out,” Lombard said of his car. “They always say something like ‘I use to have one of those’ or ‘I can’t believe you still have one.’”

Actually Lombard purchased his Gremlin brand new off the lot in 1973. Soon after he got married and acquired a company car, he put the Gremlin in storage.

“I never thought much about the car until we were moving to another house,” Lombard said. “I went into the storage shed, put a battery in and gas and the car started right up.”

Usually at Metro Cruise, Lombard parks his car next to his brother’s 1970 AMC Javelin that he too bought brand new off the lot.

Tim Lombard with his 1970 AMC Javlin (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

“I think I paid about $2,500 out the door for it,” Tim Lombard said. “I actually wanted a Barracuda but I couldn’t find one. This was a great deal, so I decided to take it.”

It is not hard to find the group at Metro Cruise, they take up the first 21 spots at the Rogers Plaza, something Wright said the group was able to secure because of their long participation. Wander through and you’ll discover an amazing sampling of classics from Lombards’ AMCs to Joe Birgles 1967 Olds 442, Ray Doornbos 1960s Chevy Pickup, and Bill Dewing’s 1957 Chevy.

Nestled among those cars is Wayne Kester’s 1957 Chevy Belair. The Belair design is often consider an auto icon having been used in toys and other merchandise. A closer look at Kester’s and you are quick to discover that this is a two-door post car that does not have a hard-top. A rare find indeed.

“It was actually a barn find in Sparta,” Kester said. “The uniqueness is that it is an in-line straight 6, original motor with 250 horsepower.”

Wayne Kester with his 1957 Chevy Belair (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

It is the original motor, original color, original transmission and original rear-end with no Bondo or rust. In fact, due to its outstanding safety rating — Kester said he maintains the car to be road safe — it was invited to represent Michigan in a National Street Rod Association event in Louisville, Kentucky.

“I was looking for a convertible and I couldn’t find one,” Kester said. “I came across this car by accident. It is something that nobody else has.”

Of course, in every group there is that one car that that has the story you have to hear. That would be Terry Bush’s 1971 Chevy Nova.

“My brother-in-law gave it to me as no one else wanted it,” Bush said. “I don’t know if it was a deal, as I had to rebuild it.”

Bush’s work on the car was recognized as he earned a first place award. Unfortunately, on the way home, the car was in an accident. So Bush had the car redone and again went to a car show, receiving an award, only to have the car catch on fire on the way home. He again had the car repaired and again took it to a show, won an award only to have a friend back into it at the show.

“It is has had four complete paint jobs,” Bush said with the group laughing. “At this point, I tend to avoid getting any trophies at the shows.”

So if you are wandering through Metro Cruise this Saturday, make sure to visit spots one through 21. Check out the cars, listen to the stories, and feel free to share a few of your own.

Cascade Township to host ‘Metro Cruise Warm-Up’ all-ages event on Thursday, Aug. 26

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The 28th Street Metro Cruise takes place Aug. 27 and 28 in Wyoming and Kentwood. But Cascade will host a “Warm-Up” — with lots of fun and cars — on Thursday, Aug. 26. (WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

After being canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cascade Metro Cruise Warm-Up returns to Cascade Township where it will welcome classic car lovers and community members of all ages.

This year’s event will take place from 4:30-8:30 p.m., on Thursday, Aug. 26, in the parking lot at Fowling Warehouse Grand Rapids, 6797 Cascade Road SE. The free-to-attend event will feature activities for car enthusiasts, music lovers, families and children, including classic show cars, music by The Soul Syndicate, and face painting and balloon sculpting for the little ones.

There will also be variety of dinner and dessert options available from local food trucks, including Patty Matters, The Grilled Greek, O’Hana Ice and Mexcellente.

“The Cascade Metro Cruise Warm-Up is a wonderful way for residents of all ages to get outdoors, have fun and connect with neighbors,” Sandra Korhorn, Cascade Township economic development director, said in supplied material. “We are beyond excited to return this year and gather with the community to listen to great music, grab a bite to eat and, of course, admire dozens of classic cars.”

The Cascade Metro Cruise Warm-Up leads into the 28th Street Metro Cruise, West Michigan’s premiere auto cruise and car show set for Friday, Aug. 27 through Saturday, Aug. 28, at Wyoming’s Rogers Plaza and Kentwood’s Woodland Mall.

Cascade’s Metro Cruise Warm-Up will also feature a silent auction that will benefit the Kent County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit. The Kent County Sheriff’s Office will auction off two ride-alongs with the K-9 Unit. Each ride-along will consist of a six-hour patrol shift that will “give participants the opportunity to see the role of law enforcement from a unique perspective,” according to supplied material. Participants must be 18 years or older and pass a criminal background check. The K-9 Unit will also perform a live demonstration at 7 p.m.

For more information on the Cascade Metro Cruise Warm-Up visit the Township’s website or the event’s Facebook page.

Jazz, hopefully, coming ‘RoundAgain’ in 2022 to St. Cecilia Music Center’s Royce Stage

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The three-night WinterFest Jazz Festival will feature Christian McBride and plenty of his “friends”, including on Feb. 25 special guest jazz singer Cyrille Aimée will be featured. (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

“RoundAgain” is the title of a 2020 studio album by a quartet consisting of modern jazz powerhouses Joshua Redman on saxophone, Brad Mehldau on piano, Christian McBride on bass, and Brian Blade on drums.

The album was released without the usual touring support July 2020 after being  recorded in New York City, in September 2019 — just before the music world’s abrupt touring shutdown as the COVID-19 pandemic hit us all.

St. Cecilia Music Center, as part of its 2021-22 concert season filled with “hope of bringing audiences back to Royce Auditorium” after its own shutdown, has its own plans to bring touring jazz “round again” — with Redman and McBride leading the effort as both are scheduled to make appearances in 2022, including McBride hosting the delayed WinterFest Music Festival in February.

“We are thrilled and thankful to begin again in 2021–22 with live concerts featuring most of the artists who were scheduled to appear this past season and had to be sidelined due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive and artistic director said in supplied material at the time of the season announcement. “These great artists are looking forward to getting back out on tour to perform in front of live audiences and to bring music back to concert stages in the U.S. and worldwide.”

And local jazz fans can’t wait for their return as well.

Joshua Redman Quartet (Supplied)

St. Cecilia’s jazz offerings will include WinterFest, an event featuring 7-time Grammy-winning jazz bassist McBride “with some of his most talented musical collaborators” for a three-evening festival Feb. 24 -26.

 

The St. Cecilia Spectacular Jazz Series itself will include saxophonist Redman on Jan. 20, Grammy and Tony award-winning jazz singer Dee Dee Bridgewater together with pianist Bill Charlap on March 10, and acclaimed trombonist, composer and producer Delfeayo Marsalis with his  Uptown Jazz Orchestra on April 14.

“It was important to us to bring the artists we had booked this past season for the upcoming 2021-22 season … Recreating that amazing line-up gives us hope for the future.” Holbrook said. “We are also thrilled to announce that our new WinterFest Jazz Festival was able to be rescheduled for the same week” just one year later.

Jazz season opens in January, but tickets available now

Joshua Redman on Jan. 20. Redman, a ceaselessly innovative saxophonist, and his band “evoke a sound that is both challenging and provocative to hard-swinging, melodic, and soulful – music with a joyous and celebratory spirit,” according to supplied material. Redmond’s latest album is “Come What May” was released in Spring 2019 — at which tome JazzTimes said of Redman, he is “unparalleled among horn players today.”

Dee Dee Bridgewater (Supplied)

Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap on March 10. Two Grammy winners will share the stage as Grammy and Tony Award-winning jazz vocalist Bridgewater and world- renowned pianist Bill Charlap pay a visit. Bridgewater, over the course of a multifaceted career spanning four decades, “has ascended to the upper echelon of vocalists, putting her unique spin on standards, as well as taking intrepid leaps of faith in re-envisioning jazz classics,” according to supplied material. Charlap has performed and recorded with many leading artists of our time, ranging from jazz masters Phil Woods and Wynton Marsalis to singers Tony Bennett and Barbra Streisand. Since 1997, he has led the Bill Charlap Trio, now recognized as one of the leading groups in jazz.

Delfeayo Marsalis on April 14. Marsalis — of the deep and deeply-talented Marsalis musical family — will lead his Uptown Jazz Orchestra in a performance of big band favorites. Over the course of his music career, acclaimed trombonist, composer and producer Marsalis has been praised for his “technical excellence, inventive mind and frequent touches of humor.”  He has also been called one of “the best, most imaginative and musical of the trombonists of his generation.” Marsalis, an NEA Jazz Master, has shared the bandstand with jazz legends Art Blakey, Max Roach and Elvin Jones, as well as pop icons Fats Domino, Ray Charles and George Clinton.

St. Cecilia WinterFest Jazz Festival 2022

Acclaimed Grammy–winning jazz bassist McBride will bring plenty of his “friends” to town for a three-day festival: Feb. 24 will feature McBride and Edgar Meyer for a double “double bass” extravaganza; Feb. 25 will be a traditional jazz show showcasing McBride’s celebrated jazz career with his trio and special guest jazz singer Cyrille Aimée; Feb. 26 will be an evening with Christian McBride’s quintet, Inside Straight, for “an unforgettable night of energetic and inspiring jazz.”

Christian McBride, no stranger to St. Cecilia Music Center, will return in a big way in 2021 (Supplied)

McBride, deservedly, has been called a “force of nature, fusing the fire and fury of a virtuoso with the depth and grounding of a seasoned journeyman.” With a career now into its third decade, the Philadelphia native has become one of the most requested, most recorded, and most respected figures in the music world today.

His range and recording span the spectrum of music: from jazz (McCoy Tyner, Roy Haynes, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny) to R&B (Isaac Hayes, Chaka Khan, Natalie Cole, and the one and only Godfather of Soul himself, James Brown) to pop/rock (Sting, Paul McCartney, Carly Simon) to hip-hop/neo-soul (The Roots, Queen Latifah) to classical  (Kathleen Battle, Edgar Meyer, Shanghai Quartet).

Meyer is in demand as both a performer and a composer. The New Yorker called him “…the most remarkable virtuoso in the relatively un-chronicled history of his instrument”, Meyer’s unparalleled technique and musicianship in combination with his gift for composition have brought him to the forefront, where he is appreciated by a vast, varied audience.

Grammy-nominated vocalist Aimée ventured from singing on street corners in Europe to dazzling audiences at the world’s most prestigious jazz festivals; from sneaking out to sing in gypsy encampments in her native France to acting on Broadway; from braving the notoriously tough audiences at New York’s Apollo Theatre to being called a “rising star in the galaxy of jazz singers” by The New York Times.

Inside Straight is Christian McBride’s quintet formed in 2009. “Kind of Brown,” the quintet’s debut studio album, was released in 2009 when Will Lyman of PopMatters wrote “This music is unselfconsciously traditional: it’s fun; it swings…it’s not experimental, but it gives superb voice to several brilliant players and one new discovery. In 2013, the quintet released “People Music”,  which one reviewer said “The new album finds the quintet in hard-swing mode, delivering what they call “more road-tested, ‘lived-in’ Inside Straight” in an accessible way, and one that makes the audience part of the experience.”

Tickets and COVID pandemic details

Season subscription and single concert tickets to the 2022 SCMC WinterFest Jazz Festival and Spectacular Jazz Series are available online at scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.

At this date, St. Cecilia states on its website that it “will require proof of fully-vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at our venue…. SCMC is also highly recommending that all attendees wear a mask while in the building. Attendees will need to bring ID and proof of vaccination the night of a concert. We will continue to monitor the COVID environment and may change policies at any time if necessary. … All ticket holders will be notified if mandatory mask requirements are in effect for a particular show by an artist.”

If SCMC is able to offer post-concert CD-signing receptions, all ticket-holders may be able to meet some of the artists and obtain signed CDs of their releases. Further information will be announced closer to the start of the season on whether COVID restrictions will allow SCMC to hold receptions.

SCMC WinterFest Jazz Festival individual concerts include Christian McBride and Edgar Meyer on Thursday, Feb. 24, with single tickets at $50 and $55; Christian McBride Trio and Cyrille Aimee on Friday, Feb. 25, with single tickets at $40 and $45; and Christian McBride & Inside Straight on Saturday, Feb. 26, with single tickets at $40 and $45.

Jazz Series Single Tickets
 

Jazz Saxophonist Joshua Redman

Thursday, January 20, 2022

A section $55

B section $45

     

Dee Dee Bridgewater & Bill Charlap

Thursday, March 10, 2022

A section $55

B section $50

Delfeayo Marsalis Big Band

Thursday, April 14, 2022

A section $50

B section $45

       

County seeks applicants for boards and commissions, including a Wyoming resident to library board

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The Kent County Board of Commissioners (from a previous meeting). (Supplied/Kent County)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Board of Commissioners is seeking “qualified and interested” residents to serve the community through appointment to various boards, commissions, and committees.

Some positions require certain experience in select fields, while other simply require people to be interested in serving their community. Some, but not all appointments, require an individual to be a resident or a registered voter of Kent County.

All applications for appointment must be filed with the Board of Commissioner’s office by close of business, Friday, Sept. 30.

One open position which requires a citizen of Wyoming is on the Kent District Library Board, with an opening for a Region 8 resident member from the City of Wyoming. (Also available is the Region 4 resident member from either Bowne, Lowell,Vergennes Township or City of Lowell).

Other boards, commissions, and committees that have openings for terms effective Jan. 1, 2022 (unless otherwise noted) include:

Agricultural Preservation Board (openings for agricultural interest representative and conservation representative).


Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, Board of Directors (must be 60 years or older).

Community Health Advisory Committee (openings for at-large member, community-based organization representative, health care provider representative, and Kent ISD representative).

Community Mental Health Authority Board (Network 180) Board (Term begins April 1,2022).

County Building Authority.

Friend of the Court Citizens’ Advisory Committee (attorney who engages primarily in Family Law and one representative of the public).

Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRFIA) Authority Board.

Housing Commission.

Jury Commission.

Kent County Community Action Advisory Governing Board (openings for one consumer sector member and one public sector member).

Kent County Family & Children’s Coordinating Council (private agency representatives, private funding representatives).

Kent Hospital Finance Authority (two openings for County Representative members).

Officers’ Compensation Commission (four member openings).

Remonumentation Peer Review Group (openings for four professional surveyor members).

Veterans Services Committee (openings for four U.S. armed forces veteran members).

Qualified residents may apply by completing an online application on the County’s website at accessKent.com/boardappointments. Resumes and cover letters are encouraged. The application deadline is 5 p.m. on Sept. 30, 2021.


For additional information on the boards and commissions visit the Kent County website here or contact the Board of Commissioner’s office at 616-632-7580.

Metro Cruise, looking east for cruise extension and more exposure, partners with Woodland Mall

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Bob O’Callaghan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, talks about the chamber’s Metro Cruise expanding out to a second location in 2021, at the Woodland Mall.

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

People who have a history of cruising with the 28th Street Metro Cruise know it once extended from Cascade to Wyoming, with Woodland Mall a good middle point turnaround for some.

Bob O’Callaghan, President/CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, the hosting organization of the Metro Cruise, would like to see those days return.

But this year, just having the event extend its footprint and have a presence at Woodland Mall is a big step in the right direction.

“Woodland (Mall) has been an endpoint for a lot of folks going east,” O’Callaghan said to WKTV. “We are trying to get more people in Cascade, or whatever, doing events that go all the way, the full 13 miles. But at this point Woodland has been a great way to do that.”

The 28th Street Metro Cruise officially kicks-off Friday, Aug. 27, at 4 p.m., at its usual and main location at Rogers Plaza in Wyoming, and will continue Saturday, Aug. 28.

Rogers Plaza mall parking lot in Wyoming is always a focal point for the 28th Street Metro Cruise. (WKACC)

As in past years, the Rogers Plaza mall parking lot will feature food trucks and concessionaires, hundreds of collector cars, a kid’s entertainment area, a community awards ceremony, the crowd-favorite Miss Metro Cruise competition finals, live music on the Metro-Main Stage, and the popular Dynamometer car testing area where attendees can see cars rev up to 160 mph. (For more information and schedule of events visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.)

But at the second Main Event site, located on the off 28th Street at Woodland Mall, on Saturday, Aug. 28, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., will feature a wide array of collector, sports, and antique cars. It will also feature multiple food vendors including local food trucks, and official Metro Cruise merchandise.
 

“The good thing about this event here at Woodland Mall is that it is an opportunity for some of the folks in Cascade, Ada, who usually drive down to Rogers Plaza but don’t want to, have a closer venue,” O’Callaghan said. “We’ll have a lot of folks come into see the cars, and we’ll have a lot of folks just want see what it is. … It is a great opportunity for people to come in, park, look at the cars, and have a good time.”

O’Callaghan also expressed gratitude to the management of Woodland Mall for working with the Metro Cruise — “We are glad to have them be part of this for this year and hope it grows.”

And Woodland Mall is happy to be part of the festivities.

“We are looking forward again to welcoming the 28th Street Metro Cruise to Woodland Mall,” Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director for Woodland Mall, said to WKTV. “In addition to providing shoppers and guests with an excellent selection of shopping, dining and entertainment offerings, we also host many free events and programs for the community to enjoy year-round. … Metro Cruise is one of many events we’ve been grateful to be a part of again this year to bring the West Michigan community together.”

Num-num: Kentwood Farmers Market charcuterie challenge offered culinary skills, creative eye

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The sights and sounds of the City of Kentwood’s Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Five contestants, including at least two from Kentwood, pulled out their cutlery and their eye for beauty recently as the the Kentwood Farmers Market held its first-ever Charcuterie Challenge, which had the entries given 30 minutes to first buy items from the market and then prepare a charcuterie plater for pubic vote.

The Aug. 12 challenge, eventually won by Lisa Hopkins, included contestants Amy Richey, Marne Becker-Baratta, Trang Wilbur and Joshua Knepper.

The competition took place during the Kentwood Farmers Market, located weekly behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE, with the finished boards on display and market-goers able to watch the competitors build their boards and then vote for their favorite. The winner received a gift courtesy of the Kentwood Farmers Market.

In the French tradition, charcuterie (pronounced “shahr-ku-tuh-ree”) is the art of preparing and assembling cured meats and meat products. The idea of charcuterie has evolved over the years to include an assortment of meats, cheeses, veggies and other items.

The market randomly selected five challengers out of a group of applicants to each receive $25 and 30 minutes to shop the market and assemble a one-of-a-kind charcuterie board using only those purchased ingredients.

“Charcuterie has become such a fun, popular way to display and enjoy a variety of food,” market manager Kristina Colby said prior to the event. “We are looking forward to seeing all the creative ways challengers showcase local foods found at the Kentwood Farmers Market and use the beautiful, handmade charcuterie boards Handcrafted by Fellow is suppling for the competition.”

For more information about the Kentwood Farmers Market visit KentwoodFarmersMarket.com.

  • The Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, farmers market manager Kristina Colby, center, prepares the chefs for the challenge. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Joshua Knepper is out shopping at the market. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Amy Richey (of Kentwood) is out shopping at the market. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, the contestants start their work. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Lisa Hopkins — and eventual winner — prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Joshua Knepper prepares his plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Marne Becker-Baratta (of Kentwood) prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • At the Kentwood Farmers Market’s first-ever Charcuterie Challenge Aug. 12, contestant Trang Wilbur prepares her plate. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The George Keen I knew

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George Keen, left, and Ralph Baker on The Racing Show, taped by WKTV in January, 2020. (WKTV)

By Tom Norton, WKTV general manager

Whenever we receive news of the sudden passing of a colleague, friend or family member, it’s always a shock. All of us WKTV Community Media family were shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of George Keen Thursday, Aug. 12, 2021.

George began his decades of volunteering and creating television at WKTV in 1992. I remember first meeting George and knew instantly that he was a natural for broadcast work. His easy-going, affable  and conversational manner made him the perfect television host. We used to joke here that George was so good, he could give a play-by-play of paint drying. The ease from which George could take a guest’s answer and play it into the next question made his television appearances, not so much television, but more a conversation which is where television really shines. It seemed like it was an old acquaintance or friends talking and it was always a pleasure to watch.

And watch they did. In 1992 George and his team created “The Racing Show” to in George’s words, ‘give the racing fans something to talk about over the winter when they were at the races.” I asked him what they were going to talk about and he said, “racing, of course.” Within several months of its launch, “The Racing Show”, every Wednesday at 7 p.m., became appointment television for many in West Michigan. There was no internet or social media to push the audience (or divide it up), but the audience grew quickly.

The show sponsored sold out wintertime racing banquets at the K of C Hall and during a WKTV Buy a Brick telethon in 2002, we gave George and the racing community an entire night of the telethon. All night long the phones jangled with the sound of the racing community buying bricks to support WKTV. We knew, however, that they were really heeding George’s call and it showed that the racing community is a tight knit family.

George stayed with us through the early years of The 28th Street Metro Cruise, again providing that effortless style of good conversation when talking to any classic car owner. Gradually, though his talent led him to work more in radio and at Berlin Raceway and when “The Racing Show” went off the air in 2005 we were sad. For us it seemed an era had passed.

George returned occasionally to host a number of different shows including many years doing play-by-play for Golden Gloves Boxing. In February of 2020 George returned again to WKTV to tape the first  installment of the new “The Racing Show” which would’ve also featured a podcast. He just couldn’t stay away from making television and it was a comeback we were glad to have. When the pandemic shuttered productions, things never did come back together, but we have the one episode that will stay in our archive forever.

I never saw the man use notes. He ability to wing it effortlessly always impressed me and we’re sure much more will be said of George who had so many friends and colleagues across so many facets of life. Something tells me that if Heaven has racing and they want the new guy to “call the race,” everyone back here who knew George would recommend him highly.

God speed George Keen. Thank you for 29 years at WKTV.

WKTV’s commitment to, and coverage, of Metro Cruise runs decades deep; catch some highlights

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The 2013 Metro Cruise, filmed by WKTV. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Since 2005, the 28th Street Metro Cruise has been an annual event put on by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, but “cruising 28th Street” has been a “thing” long before then — people have grown up cruising up and down 28th Street, maybe first with their father and now with their children.

Cruisers have long considered 28th Street a memorable place for car lovers, particularly around the Rogers Plaza area in Wyoming, and “Bringing car lovers together to celebrate this long-standing tradition was the foundation for the current event,” the chamber states on their website.
 

And WKTV Community Media has been covering the 28th Street Metro Cruise since its inception.

“WKTV Community Media has for nearly half a century been part of the Wyoming and Kentwood community and, with Metro Cruise being one of largest gatherings of our community, we have a long history with the event,” Tom Norton, general manger of WKTV Community Media, said. “We have covered it in many ways over the years. Rain or shine. Big and smaller. The cars change but our commitment to coverage has not.”

For just a sampling of WKTV’s coverage, and some recent YouTube highlights, see the following links:

The History of Metro Cruise


Even in the COVID-19 year of 2020, WKTV got creative and still offered up a show.



In 2017, a car show met Hollywood premiere as WKTV brought classic vehicles to the red carpet.



In 2018, WKTV looked at what “classic sports and performance cars” might look like in the future.



2014 Metro Cruise Live



For more information and schedule of events visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com.

Kentwood’s brush drop-off site reopens for residents with storm damage

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The City of Kentwood will accept brush and tree debris for a short time due to the recent storms. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood has reopened its brush drop-off site for residents to dispose of tree debris resulting from recent storms. Residents can also report debris on city streets to the Department of Public Works, according to a statement from the city.

The drop-off site typically is closed in the summer.
 

Beginning today, Aug. 12, and running through Aug. 21 city residents can drop off brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs, loose leaves and loose grass clippings from storm damage at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE. The facility will be open from noon-8 p.m., Monday-Friday, and noon-6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.

“Our crews are working hard to help clean up storm debris throughout Kentwood,” interim Public Works Director Jerry DeRuiter said in supplied material. “We’re reopening our brush drop-off site to help residents take care of the trees, branches and brush that have fallen on their properties.”

The service is available to Kentwood residents only. Staff will be on-site checking for proof of residency and appropriate materials. Materials that cannot be accepted include paper and plastic bags, trash, dirt, concrete, asphalt, tires, rocks, stones, construction materials, glass and metal.

Residents can report downed tree limbs and other debris obstructing city streets to the Department of Public Works at 616-554-0817 or 911. Non-emergency street or sidewalk concerns can be reported online at kentwood.us/psr/index.php.

Large crowds expected at this year’s Metro Cruise

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Metro Cruise takes place Aug. 27 and 28. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

With the attendance at the Metro Cruise Dust Off and at the Miss Metro Cruise preliminaries almost double in past years, Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce President Bob O’Callaghan is pretty confident that this year’s Metro Cruise will also have an increase in attendance.

Set for Aug. 27 and 28, the annual car show has previously drawn about 250,000 people city-wide to dozens of events along 28th Street. Because 2020 had no events due to the COVID pandemic, O’Callaghan said he has seen a huge interest in people wanting to get out and do something this summer. Not only has that been proven with the Metro Cruise’s earlier events but both the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood have reported high attendance for the municipalities summer concert series.

 

“So we know people are ready to get out and show their cars,” O’Callaghan said. “We are hoping for a great weekend.”

In response to post-COVID surges seen at other events, Metro Cruise organizers have made some changes for this year’s event. More portable restrooms and hand wash stations have been added. Multiple stations along the main walkway will have hand sanitizer. Collector car parking areas have been shifted further from walkways. The number of vendors also have been decrease in an effort to increase spacing between attendees.

The event will not operate at reduce numbers, nor will mask wearing or six-foot distancing be enforced, unless any Kent County Healthy Department, state or federal mandates are put back in place before the Metro Cruise weekend. 

“We encourage all attendees to be smart,” said Event Manager Brandon Simmons. “If you’re sick with COVID-like symptoms, or have recently been exposed to someone who tested positive, please plan to visit us next year. If you do attend, wear a mask if desired and keep some space around you.”

As for the event, it is going to be bigger than last year with the addition of a second anchor location, Woodland Mall. which will be open on Saturday, Aug. 28, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.. The Woodland Mall location will feature a wide array collector, sports, and antique cars along with activities.

A preview event is set for Tuesday, Aug. 24, 6 – 8 p.m. at Rivertown Ridge, 3555 Copper River Ave. SW. The main event will take place Aug. 27 and 28 at Rogers Plaza parking lot. Rogers Plaza will feature more than 20 food trucks and concessionaires, 400 collector cars, kids entertainment area, Community Awards ceremony and the Miss Metro Cruise competition finale, area bands, and the Dynamometer car testing area.

At the 2019 event, there was a donut challenge between the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming. The mayors of both cities have been encouraging another event this year, so Metro Cruise will be hosting the Duel of the Cities chicken wing challenge between Wyoming’s Brann’s Steakhouse and Kentwood’s Candied Yam, O’Callaghan said. The event is set for 11 a.m. Aug. 28 at Rogers Plaza.


But the main attraction of Metro Cruise is the cars, O’Callaghan said.

“We get [the cars] from all over the place and it is the whole 13 miles of 28th Street, It is not just our two locations,” O’Callaghan said. “A lot of folks are doing different events as the week goes on.”

The most important aspect of the Metro Cruise is having people support the local businesses, he said.

 

“So have a burger or purchase a t-shirt from the businesses that are along 28th Street,” he said. 

Booths still available as Black-owned businesses to be showcased at Woodland Mall Aug. 14

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One of Woodland Mall’s entrances. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

More than 20 regional businesses will showcase their goods and services during the return of the Black-Owned Business Showcase at Woodland Mall on Saturday, Aug. 14 — and there are still booths available.

The event enjoyed a strong response from the local community at its debut in 2020, according to an announcement from the mall, and will again feature booths with Black-owned businesses offering fashion apparel, food, shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, kitchen items, gifts, stationery and cards, financial planning, health and wellness items, photography, home services and goods, and more.

Shoppers will be able to browse, sample, buy and connect during the day-long showcase from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“In response to strong consumer demand, we are so pleased to offer this showcase for a second consecutive year,” Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director for Woodland Mall, said in supplied material. “We appreciate the opportunity to open the mall’s doors to support Black-owned businesses serving our community. There will truly be something for everyone at this event, and we look forward to welcoming these entrepreneurs and their companies.”

Woodland Mall is owned by PREIT, which launched its Support Black-Owned Business and Brands 365 in February as part of an ongoing effort to spotlight Black-owned entrepreneurs and brands within its portfolio of top-tier and region-leading properties in eight states.

Woodland is one of 10 PREIT properties to offer a Black-Owned Business Showcase in August. PREIT properties have hosted activities throughout the year, including art exhibits, documentary screenings and food festivals, as a way to highlight the importance of Black-owned businesses and brands.

For a complete list of vendors, visit shopwoodlandmall.com. If your business is interested in securing a booth, complete the online registration.

Sharing art with audience, Grand Rapids Ballet returns to live performances with outdoor shows

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Recreation, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects,
Company dancer Gretchen Steimle, at right in front, talked with WKTV after a rehearsal this week about performing outdoors.

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Grand Rapids Ballet, after a year of beautiful but somewhat distant virtual performances last season, returned to rehearsals this week as the company prepared for a 2021-22 season of live audience performances.

But before GR Ballet artistic director James Sofranko’s troupe hits the Peter Martin Wege Theatre stage with a live audience in October, when the ballet will present the appropriately title Off the Canvas program to being its 2021-22 season, the dancers will perform twice this month out-of-doors.

The Studio Park “Listening Lawn”. (Supplied)

In what the ballet is calling its “Summer Series”, it will perform “under the evening skies” at two outdoor venues, the Listening Lawn at Studio Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Aug. 14, and at the amphitheater at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park on Aug. 31.

“We are filled with gratitude that Grand Rapids Ballet is returning to live performances after more than a year away from the stage,” Sofranko said to WKTV this week, “To have the full company back in rehearsals in the studio is such a welcome sight, and our first performance back will no doubt be an emotional one.”

That first performance, at Studio Park, is expected to include on its program “Sweet By and By” and “Calling Forth”, both choreographed by Sofranko, with the latter featuring violinist Gene Hahn. Other works include “Brothers”, choreographed by Jennifer Archibald; “The Old Child” by Danielle Rowe; “Give Me” by Penny Saunders; and a preview of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Christopher Stowell (and set for full performance in April 2022).

Company dancer Gretchen Steimle, after a rehearsal this week, probably spoke for her fellow dancers as she echoed Sofranko about the “emotional” return to live audiences.

Grand Rapids Ballet company in rehearsal on Aug. 3. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“We are so excited to get back to live performances, this year has been so difficult for artists who typically perform live,” Steimle said to WKTV. “We’ve had to pivot to do these virtual (performances) … but there is nothing that can replace that shared moment of art … live with an audience. And I know that the dancers have been waiting all year to be able to share what we love to do with our audiences again.”

At both Studio Park and Meijer Gardens, there will some artistic adapting to performing outside, with or without a true stage, in often uncontrollable circumstances. But at least in one aspect, in Steimle’s opinion, there is a joyful advantage to being outside — seeing the audience. (See the video above for her discussion of performing outside.)

As far as the planning for the Summer Series, and using the outside venues, Sofranko said it is all about adapting to audiences and challenging the artistic expression that is dance.

James Sofranko, Grand Rapids Ballet artistic director. (GR Ballet)

“I am always looking for new ways to present the art of ballet to our community and the outdoor venues at Studio Park and FMG offer a unique opportunity to experience the depth and artistry of the Grand Rapids Ballet dancers,” Sofranko said.

The programs also will feature guest artists, including Hahn, associate concertmaster at the West Michigan Symphony Orchestra, at Studio Park; and Chisako Oga — an acclaimed soloist at Boston Ballet — at the Meijer Gardens performance.

The Meijer Gardens program is expected to include Archibald’s “Brothers”,  “The Old Child” by Danielle Rowe, “Cold Virtues” by Adam Hougland, “Romeo and Juliet Fantasy”, and “Don Quixote” Pas De Deux with guest Oga. “Cold Virtues” will also feature the mesmerizing music of Philip Glass.

The Studio Park program on Aug. 14 will begin at 7 p.m., with general admission tickets available for $25 through Studio Park. The second program features a return to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, on Aug. 31, also at 7 p.m., as part of the Garden’s Tuesday Evening Music Club series, free for Meijer Gardens members and included in general admission for other guests.

The 2021-22 Season will feature classical ballet favorites, including The Nutcracker, Cinderella, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and explores new favorites with contemporary works such as Off the Canvas and Jumpstart 2022.

And having learned from its season of virtual performances, and community feedback, the Grand Rapids Ballet is also is set to begin offering a “virtual season” subscription for those who wish to see the GR Ballet dancers “differently” or are unable to join in person. Additional program details and performance dates and times can be found at grballet.com/2122season. Season subscriptions are now available for the 2021-22 season starting at $139. Individual tickets will go on sale this fall.

Give in to temptation, Squeeze to bring ‘80s ‘hipster pop’, updated sounds to Meijer Gardens

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Reviews, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, ,
Poster and graphic from current tour. (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

It is just too easy to think of the UK band Squeeze and follow your mind’s 1980’s classic earworm memory lane to a song like “Tempted” — oh, you know it alright: “Tempted by the fruit of another. Tempted but the truth is discovered. …”

Still Squeeze founding members Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook’s songbook — and catchy, moody hipster tunes — went deeper that that back then and goes much deeper today, as the audience at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park will find out when the band stops by on Aug. 22.

If you remember the 1980s, then you remember other “can’t get our of your mind” tunes such as “Cool for Cats”, “Pulling Mussels From A Shell”, and the ultimate kick-back date song for those special “Friends” nights: “Black Coffee in Bed”. If you weren’t there, time to catch up on the caffeine kick.

(Two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foo Fighters founder Dave Grohl even joined the band at the Bourbon & Beyond Festival in Louisville in September 2019 to perform percussion on “Black Coffee in Bed”.)

Tickets for the Meijer Gardens show are still available. For more information visit meijergardens.org.

Founding members, and hipster heart-n-soul, of Squeeze, Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook. (Supplied)

Squeeze was set to begin the U.S. leg of their 24-date Nomadband tour in early August with a headlining tour interspersed with 18 support dates for Daryl Hall & John Oates and will continue throughout the summer into early fall 2021.

And after more than a year of social isolation due to the COVID pandemic, and all those years playing the hits, more modern tunes, and whatever else strikes their Brit fancy, Difford and Tilbrook say they will be inspired and emotional.

“I’m so excited to be back on stage and in the thick of our wonderful set list of songs,” Difford said in supplied material. “Seeing an audience again will be inspiring and emotional, it’s been too long.”

And this Nomadland tour will feature a little something new in addition to its historic attractions.

“I think this is my most anticipated U.S. tour since our first in 1978,” Tilbrook said in supplied material. “Our great band is just getting greater and we are also welcoming Owen Biddle, who joins us from Nashville.”

History and musical journeys

Squeeze’s debut self-titled album was released in 1978 and at the height of the punk revolution, but its pop songwriting hooks and melodies were often compared to the 1960s British Invasion. The band continued, off and on stage and vinyl releases, through 1999, when the original Squeeze disbanded before reuniting in 2007 and releasing three new albums since then — 2010’s “Spot the Difference”, 2015’s “Cradle to the Grave” and 2017’s “The Knowledge” — as well as various solo projects.

The critically acclaimed ‘Cradle to the Grave’ was written as a soundtrack to Danny Baker’s BBC TV sitcom ‘Cradle To Grave’. One reviewer said “This album marked the complete and triumphant reintegration of the masterful songwriting axis of Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, in a beautifully-observed series of fond vignettes about childhood, growing up and the absurdities of the ride through life we’re all on.”
 

The band has always been known for its live performances as well, and in 2016 they triumphed on Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage, with The Guardian saying they “[went] down a storm… Squeeze’s success is a pretty infectious thing.”

Aside from Difford and Tilbrook, Squeeze now features keyboardist Stephen Lange and drummer Simon Hanson (since 2007,) percussionist/back-up singer Steve Smith (vocalist for house music group Dirty Vegas) along with pedal/lap steel guitarist Melvin Duffy (who joined them for the 2019 tour) and Owen Biddle, former bassist for The Roots.

After Dream Flight, local WW2 veteran pilot looks back with detail, humor on first airplane

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Gil Romeyn, a World War II veteran pilot and current resident of Kentwood’s Breton Woods of Holland Home, talks to WKTV after a Dream Fight. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Gil Romeyn, a World War II veteran pilot and current resident of Kentwood’s Breton Woods of Holland Home, remembers in great detail his training to fly with the Army Air Corps in 1942. And he also remembers his first airplane with a bit of humor.

Romeyn was one of nine veterans from the local independent living facility who were treated to a flight in a restored 1940 Boeing Stearman biplane Aug. 6 as part of a Dream Flight event at the Sparta airport offered the non-profit Dream Flights program and Breton Woods of Holland Home.

A 1940 Boeing Stearman biplane in flight, at right, from another day of Dream Flights. (Supplied)

“That’s the type of plane I learned to fly in the United States Army Air Corps in World War II,” Romeyn, who served in the precursor of the U.S. Air Force from 1941-45, said to WKTV after his flight. “We started with that aircraft (the Stearman), then went to basic flight training — that’s the (Vultee) BT-13.

“Then we went to advanced, that’s an (Beechcraft) AT-10, a multi-engine (aircraft),” he said, going into great detail. “Then I went to a (Douglas) C-47 transport plane —  that’s where I flew in the war zone. North Africa, Italy.”

And while the flight “brought back pleasant memories,” Romeyn said, he also found a little humor in his being in the back in the cockpit — how low he sat in the seat this time. (For a video of Romeyn detailing why he sat lower, and why it was humorous, see video above and here.)

The restored WWII-era biplane stop is part of Operation September Freedom, a barnstorming event led by nonprofit Dream Flights.

 

Dream Flights pilot Marcus Smith, left, with veteran Martin Sharda, after a flight on restored 1940 Boeing Stearman biplane. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The Holland Home veterans are among the 100,000 members of the “Greatest Generation” — World War II veterans — still alive today, according to supplied material. They are also among the 1,000 or so WWII veterans located in more than 300 US cities that will be honored during Dream Flights’ 61-day tour that began Aug. 1.

According to supplied material, when Dream Flights was told that Holland Home has 11 WWII veterans, the organization said they have never had so many veterans participate from a single senior living community. The oldest veteran participating in 98 and the youngest is 95.

Holland Home bused the veterans, as well as spouses and other veteran residents to the airport, and families and friends are also invited to attend. In addition to the flights, there was also a noontime ceremony with a color guard, national anthem and lunch served.

History in the air

Flying the Stearman out of Paul Miller Airport in Sparta for each of the about 30-minute Dream Flights was pilot Marcus Smith, who works for Dream Flights, out of Carson City, Nevada.

Dream Flights pilot Marcus Smith. (WKTV)

“It was a World War II trainer. … It was the original primary trainer, the first airplane that they flew,” Smith said to WKTV in between flights. “If they did not solo with the airplane within eight to 10 hours of flight time, they were washed out of the program. From there, they went into advanced training, after that they went into either bombers or fighters.”

And the history of this specific restored aircraft?

“This specific airplane was used by the U.S. Army Air Corps for training pilots. Then afterwards it as sold for surplus and in 1946 it was bought by the president of our foundation’s grandfather,” Smith said. “So this specific airplane has been in the family ever since. From then on, it was a crop duster — they put metal wings on it, they put 600 horsepower on it, and they dusted crops in Washington state for a long time. And then after that, it was restored to its original condition and now it is on the road with us fulfilling our mission.”

According to Dream Flights official webpage, the mission of the organization is “honoring military veterans and seniors with the adventure of a lifetime: a flight in a Boeing Stearman biplane.

“As we make these heroes wishes come true, our Dream Flights inspire them to share their stories. We collect, preserve and share those stories of how they survived through times of great strife to remind us of our shared humanity, our connection to each other and the value of listening. Our Dream Flights close the generation gap and open us up to a clearer understanding of ourselves and our world.”

For more information on Dream Flights, visit dreamflights.org.

Similar and different than West Nile, county health official details Jamestown Canyon virus found in Kent County

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Paul Bellamy, Kent County Health Department (KCHD) public health epidemiologist, answering questions from WKTV. (KCHD)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Health Department announced Friday that the Jamestown Canyon virus has been detected in tested mosquitoes in Kent County. The discovery was made during ongoing surveillance and testing conducted by the health department in the 49504 ZIP code (westside Grand Rapids and Walker).
 

This is the first time the Jamestown Canyon virus has been detected in Kent County, and the county stresses that the finding was not a human case but in planned mosquito testing.

“Jamestown Canyon virus is similar to West Nile virus in a couple different ways: one is that they are both transmitted by mosquitoes and that they are both quite serious,” Paul Bellamy, KCHD public health epidemiologist, said to WKTV. “However, they differ in the amount that we see them here in the midwest. West Nile virus has been occurring, reoccurring for many years. Jamestown Canyon virus has only been seen over the last (few) years. … over the last decade, we have seen an uptick in the amount of mosquito-born viruses across the U.S. This is one of the symptoms of that (mosquito population increase).”

For a detailed discussion on how Jamestown Canyon virus was discovered, and why Bellamy believes it happened now, see video at top or here.

West Nile and Jamestown viruses can also have similar symptoms, but also are similar in the rarity of their causing serious illness, Bellamy said.

“Both have very similar presentations, as far as when people do become ill,” he said. “A lot of them are asymptotic, but those that do have … fevers, malaise, chills, like that. But it has the potential of becoming serious. … (But) Jamestown Canyon virus has a very low potential of having that happen.”

While the virus has been detected throughout much of the United States, most cases to date have occurred in the upper Midwest. Jamestown Canyon virus can rarely cause severe disease, including infection of the brain (encephalitis) or the lining around the brain (meningitis). There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat Jamestown Canyon virus infection.

“Fortunately, the measures that people can take to protect themselves from other mosquito borne illnesses like West Nile Virus will work,” Bellamy said in supplied material. “This time of year, it is good to practice simple and proven steps that we already know work in preventing mosquito bites.”
 

The KCHD recommends the following prevention tactics: using a mosquito repellant that contains 10-35 percent DEET; wearing light colored clothing and long-sleeved shirts and pants; staying indoors during dusk hours; remove or refresh water in bird baths, children’s wading pools, pet water bowls; and empty other small containers that can collect water in your yard.

More information about prevention can be found at accesskent.com/Health.

Kentwood Farmers Market seeks entries for ‘Charcuterie Challenge’ on Aug. 12

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Everybody bonds over food — at the Kentwood Farmers Market. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood Farmers Market is seeking five competitors for its first-ever Charcuterie Challenge, described in a city statement as “a food assembly showdown using only farmers market ingredients” and slated for Thursday, Aug. 12.

Individuals who are interested in the competition must submit an online application by Monday, Aug. 9. The market will select up to five challengers out of the group of applicants to each receive $25 and 30 minutes to shop the market and assemble a one-of-a-kind charcuterie board using only those purchased ingredients.

The beauty of food will be on display and the Kentwood Farmers Market’s “Charcuterie Challenge”. (WKTV)

“Charcuterie has become such a fun, popular way to display and enjoy a variety of food,” farmers market manager Kristina Colby said in supplied material. “We are looking forward to seeing all the creative ways challengers showcase local foods found at the Kentwood Farmers Market and use the beautiful, handmade charcuterie boards Handcrafted by Fellow is suppling for the competition.”

 

In the French tradition, charcuterie (pronounced “shahr-ku-tuh-ree”) is the art of preparing and assembling cured meats and meat products. The idea of charcuterie has evolved over the years to include an assortment of meats, cheeses, veggies and other items.

The “friendly” competition will take place during the Farmers Market, from 5-5:30 p.m., behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE, and the boards will remain on display until 7:30 p.m. Marketgoers can watch the competitors build their boards and then vote for their favorite. The winner will receive a gift courtesy of the Kentwood Farmers Market.

Handcrafted by Fellows, a husband-and-wife duo, will be on-site selling their charcuterie boards and other handmade wood decor items. An additional 20 vendors will be at the market, from 4:30-7:30 p.m., selling staples such as fresh produce, cheese, honey, jam, bread and more. Food trucks El Jalapeño and Ohana Hawaiian Ice will also be on-site. Live music entertainment by Just Jill will be available 6-7 p.m.

In its seventh season, the Kentwood Farmers Market provides the community weekly opportunities each summer to buy a variety of goods from local vendors. This year’s market is offered every Thursday, 4:30-7:30 p.m., behind Kentwood City Hall. In addition to exploring an array of items for purchase, marketgoers can enjoy free classes and special events tied into the market’s schedule.

Other special events planned in August include: On Aug. 19, Makers and Crafters Day featuring more than 40 vendors, with a free concert at 7 p.m. featuring The Soul Syndicate; and on Aug. 26, free yoga at 6 p.m.

The Kentwood Farmers Market accepts food assistance benefits, including SNAP, Double Up Food Bucks and Senior Project FRESH/Market FRESH.
 

More information about the Kentwood Farmers Market is available at KentwoodFarmersMarket.com.

In Kentwood, shared goals bring churches and police department together on National Night Out

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, WKTV Projects, Woodland Mall,
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Police and the community mixed at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue as part of the City of Kentwood’s National Night Out celebration. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood’s National Night Out community celebration this week had police and other city personal at more than 15 locations throughout the city, but events at three local churches clearly showed a shared desire to engage the community after a long period of pandemic distancing.

On the evening of Aug. 3, at Ada Bible Church on East Paris Avenue — which along with Faith Baptist Church and Pentecostals Church on 44th Street hosted special large scale events — Kentwood Police Chief Richard Roberts and Ada Bible pastor Jason Ross talked to WKTV about their shared focus on the community.

Kentwood police Chief Richard Roberts and Ada Bible Church Pastor Jason Ross, at the church’s National Night Out event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“What we share, is we desire to connect with the community in a positive way,” pastor Ross said. “We can do that as a church. We can also do that with the people, within Ada Bible Church, as well as in the community. … We want you to feel like you are welcome here.”

Pastor Ross also talked about his and his church’s appreciation of the Kentwood Police Department. (See a WKTV video here for an expanded discussion.)

Chief Roberts also talked about the shared focus and the great opportunity of interacting with the community at local churches.

“We are privileged to be invited to Ada Bible Church … This just gives us a great opportunity, especially given this past year, for us to all come out and celebrate in a special way on National Night Out,” Chief Roberts said.

(For an expanded discussion with Chief Roberts, see a WKTV video here.)

McGruff and a future Detroit Lions fan had a moment at Woodland Mall. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The City of Kentwood was truly bustling with block parties, neighborhood events and other activities — including a special presence at Woodland Mall — on National Night Out, a nationwide annual event that “promotes community-police partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make communities safer.”

Kentwood police officers, firefighters and city leaders joined residents, who had the opportunity to explore police cruisers, fire engines and other emergency response vehicles at events, as well as learn about a variety of safety topics.

“Positive interactions with residents are invaluable for fostering strong community relationships and safer neighborhoods,” Chief Roberts previously said in supplied material. “National Night Out creates a wonderful opportunity to bring officers and community members together in a fun and relaxing setting. Members of our department always look forward to getting to know residents better and encourage more open lines of communication.”

National Night Out was created in the 1980s through an established network of law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch groups, crime prevention associations and volunteers across the nation. It began with a goal to promote safer, better neighborhoods by uniting community members and police against neighborhood crimes.

 

Audie Blaylock ended the 2021 Sounds of Summer concert series with a bluegrass bang

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  • Audie Blaylock & Redline perform at the Sounds of Summer
  • Audie Blaylock
  • Audie Blaylock on guitar and Reed Jones on bass
  • Evan Ward, from California, on banjo
  • Mason Wright on fiddle
  • Reed Jones on bass
  • Plenty of dancing at the last concert
  • They were even dancing on the playground.

By Patty Williams
P. Williams Productions

It was a bluegrass ending to the Sounds of Summer as headliner Audie Blaylock & Redline closed out the music series on July 29.

Cutler Park was filled with bluegrass fans ad local musicians from all over Michigan and the surrounding states. They were not disappointed as the consensus of the audience was that the last concert was a tremendous show.

 

The Redline musicians traveled from California, West Virginia, and Indiana to perform at the Cutlerville Sounds of Summer. The band features Reed Jones on bass, Evan Ward on banjo, Mason Wright on fiddle and Audie Blaylock on guitar. Audie opened with “Hello Michigan good to be back.”

This past year halted many touring musicians/bands including Redline. So, the group had a blast playing music to the packed park and live audience.

 

Audie opened with “Hello Michigan good to be back.” (Photos by Patty Williams

From start to finish, Audie performed bluegrass music from its roots. Mason Wright kicked off a hot fiddle tune and the audience knew this was going to be some “good ole” toe tapping bluegrass and the excitement resonated all evening.

 

The group played and sang many Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley songs and featured several requests including Audie Blaylock’s No. 1 song recorded on The 615 Hideaway Records, “Love’s Fleeting Fire.”

The music was exceptional and the bands tight harmonies were flawless. The concert ended with an encore standing ovation.

For more on Audie Blaylock, visit his Facebook page, www.audieblaylock.net.

All the Sounds of Summer concerts are recorded and can be watched on WKTV Channel 25. Check listings for times. The concerts are produced by P. Williams Productions and sponsored by Byron Township. To follow the Sounds of Summer, visit the Facebook page. Note that the series will be back in 2022 with the same schedule, every Thursday in July at 7 p.m. at Cutler Park.

No mere chance, The Accidentals very busy return to road continues with Kentwood summer concert

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The Accidentals in private concert. (Special for WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Accidentals, talking to WKTV early this year, said they could not wait to leave their pandemic quiet places in their hometown of Traverse City and get back on the road — but they were productive in their time off.

“We found things that work for us and found things that didn’t work for us,” Savannah “Sav” Buist — who along with Katie Larson and Michael Dause make up The Accidentals — said to WKTV in May. “But I think it was just nice to have the time … We toured so consistently that when we come home Katie and I just tend to spit out songs within a week and then not really look back. It was nice to look back … I learned to take my time, to come back to a song.”

Back on the road with their usual hectic pace of concerts across Michigan and the region, the band will be making a stop Thursday, Aug. 5, at the outdoor Kentwood Summer Concerts free series hitting the stage at 7 p.m.

And songs familiar and new will be on the set list.

The Accidentals (Supplied/Courtesy Aryn Madigan)

“Might As Well Be Gold” is one of the new songs, included on the “TIME OUT (Session 1), which was released May 7. The EP is a collection of songs which includes the single “Wildfire”, co-written by Kim Richey  — who has worked with the likes ofTrisha Yearwood, Radney Foster, Brooks & Dunn — and which is getting The Accidentals a fair amount of national notice and airplay.

For more information on The Accidentals, visit theaccidentalsmusic.com. For a WKTV video interview of the band, with a special live version of “Might As Well Be Gold”, visit WKTVvideos on YouTube.

The Kentwood Summer Concert Series has one more Thursday night date, a rescheduled night with The Soul Syndicate on Aug. 19.

While most of the series of concerts have been livestreamed by WKTV, contractual restrictions by the band’s record label will prevent The Accidentals from being shown live or on-demand.

All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., and conclude around 8:30 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair. Each concert will feature food trucks, which will have food and beverages available for purchase. Guests may also bring their own food and beer or wine.

All are also invited to visit the Kentwood Farmers Market, which overlaps with the concert schedule as the market will take place 4:30-7:30 p.m. each Thursday in front of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.

More information is available at kentwood.us/SummerConcertSeries.

Snapshots: A busy Tuesday, Aug. 3, is coming — local elections and local National Night Out

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Democracy is about voting and it’s about a majority vote. And it’s time that we started exercising the Democratic process.”

Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow

Voters at the voting booth. (Photo by Jeff Miller/UW-Madison)

Voting in Kentwood and Wyoming

There will be contested primary elections happening in both Kentwood and Wyoming, with a Kentwood City Commission race possibly settled, and local Democrats and Republicans set to decide who from their part will be on the ballot for a State Senate seat up for final vote in the fall. Go here for the story.

National Night Out is all about getting people out and mixing with local public service employees including police and firefighters. (NATA.org)

Night out in Kentwood

The City of Kentwood will be bustling with block parties, neighborhood events and other activities as part of the city-and-community celebration of National Night Out, a nationwide annual event that “promotes community-police partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make communities safer.” Go here for the story.

Night out in Wyoming

A change for this year’s Wyoming National Night Out event will be that the city will host two main sites — Grand Rapids First, 2100 44th St. SW, and Grace Christian University, 1011 Alden St. SW. Both locations will be open from 5 to 7 p.m. Go here for the story.

Fun fact:

71

Number of cities in Michigan which have registered to be involved in National Night Out. Source.

Mustang Band brings the country music for the final Wyoming Concerts in the Park

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The Mustang Band is set to close out the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series on Aug. 3. (Supplied)

Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

In the 1990s, country music was changing to a more modern sound with such songs as “Achy Breaky Heart” leading the way. Coupled with the start of country station B-93 in Grand Rapids and local venues started looking for bands who could perform the new country style.

Already on the scene was Grand Rapids Mustang Band, which had been performing country classics since 1994.

“It was not difficult to change gears and move toward the modern sound,” said band founder Eric Vander Stel. From there, the Mustang Band carved out a niche in offering country music from the classics of Johnny Cash to the current artists such as Jason Alden.

“We play some rock ‘n’ roll,” Vander Stel said, “but mostly it is country, just about anything from now to the past.”

It will be mostly country music Tuesday, Aug. 3, as the Mustang Band wraps up the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series. The performance is at 7 p.m. at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW.

Like many local bands, Mustang Band has been performing regulary since the start of summer when many of the COVID restrictions were relaxed.

“We are very responsive to our audience and people have just been very happy to have music,” Vander Stel said.

The band members, which are Wendy Allen on lead vocals, Steve Bouchard on bass, Stacy Hill on drums and Vander Stel on vocals and guitar, work hard to incorporate the audience in the show. Vander Stel mentioned at a recent show they had an audience member playing spoons with the group.

“With everything that has happened over the last summer, I think people are just making up and enjoying this summer,” Vander Stel said, adding the Mustang Band is happy to be part of the fun.

All of the Wyoming Concerts in Park are recorded by WKTV and rebroadcasted on Comcast Channel 25 at 5 p.m. Wednesday and 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday. 

Ani Di Franco brings her ‘Revolutionary Love’ — new release and musical activism — to Meijer Gardens

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How you know its summer … and fall this year … a concert at Meijer Gardens. (Supplied/William Hebert)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

It is fitting, for many reasons, that Ani Di Franco’s just released album is titled “Revolutionary Love” — one reason being the fact that the musician and social activist has a long history of writing songs as reflections of not only her personal life but also society at large.

It is also fitting, as the audience will see Aug. 23 when Di Franco hits the stage at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, that the new release is on her Righteous Babe Records label.

Ani Di Franco. (Daymon Gardner)

With the current divisions and strife in our world, Di Franco states that “Revolutionary Love” is necessary now, for her and for the message she wants to bring.

“It’s about carrying the energy of love and compassion into the center of our social movements and making it the driving force,” Di Franco said in supplied material. “It’s about finding it within ourselves to stay curious about our opponents instead of shutting down.”

Tickets for the Meijer Gardens show are still available. Visit more information visit meijergardens.org.

Di Franco wrote many of the new tracks on the road prior to returning home to New Orleans in February 2020 — just days before the touring music businesses shut down.

While the country soon encountered COVID and solitary lives, Di Franco felt the urgent need to collaborate creatively and record the new music. After being off the road due to the pandemic, Di Franco is back on tour beginning Aug. 19, and her stop at the Fifth Third Banks Summer Concerts series will be one of her first shows. Elizabeth Moen is expected to open.

“My songs have always reflected an acute connection between my personal life and the life of my society,” Di Franco said in supplied material. “As I started to come out of dealing with years of personal hardship, I saw that my entire country was struggling with the same problems: the same themes of how much damage we do to each other and how much pain we’re carrying, and the same question of how to keep going when we’re so broken.”

Inspiration for new music came from another activist

With its exploration of so many complex emotional states — forgiveness, shame, empathy, resilience — “Revolutionary Love” opens on its title track, a “profoundly resolute” piece inspired by Sikh-American activist/filmmaker/lawyer/author Valarie Kaur.

 

Album cover of Ani DiFranco’s “Revolutionary Love”. (Supplied)

“A lot of the language in that song comes from Kaur’s book ‘See No Stranger’,” saidDiFranco, who connected with Kaur after watching a talk she’d given in the aftermath of the 2016 presidential election.

Throughout “Revolutionary Love — the song and the collection — DiFranco hits a potent balance of determination and dreamy reflection, a dynamic that echoes one of the central lessons of Kaur’s teachings: “If we don’t push, we will die. If we don’t breathe, we will die.”

“I wanted to have these moments where, after you acknowledge all the insanity and the strife, we step back and shake off that anxiety and fear,” DiFranco said. “We all need that quiet space to reconnect with ourselves and our hope.”

A little history, a little video

While sometimes considered a feminist icon, Grammy winner Ani Di Franco is the mother of the DIY recording movement, being one of the first artists to create her own record label in 1990. While she has been known as the “Little Folksinger,” her music has embraced punk, funk, hip hop, jazz, soul, electronica and even more distant sounds.

Her collaborators have included everyone from Utah Phillips to legendary R&B saxophonist Maceo Parker to Prince. She has shared stages with Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Pete Seeger, Kris Kristofferson, Greg Brown, Billy Bragg, Michael Franti, Chuck D. and many more.

Di Franco also recently released “Revolutionary Love: Live at Big Blue”, a 95-minute concert documentary film from herself, Terence Higgins and special guest Ivan Neville, and is available for download and on CD via the Righteous Babe store and Bandcamp.

But, heck, see the Righteous Babe live if you can.

For more information visit righteousbabe.com.

Woodland Mall’s new theater tenant brings high tech, soft seats and a family business outlook to Kentwood

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Phoenix Theatres will be relaunching movie theater operation at Woodland Mall, as early as this fall. (Supplied graphic)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

At a special announcement at Woodland Mall this week, new mall movie-theater tenant Phoenix Theaters’ management team made clear that “big company” high-tech visuals, solid sound and premium seats will be the standard when the mall’s theater building reopens as early as this fall.

But Phoenix Theatres CEO Cory Jacobson also made clear to the small crowd at the mall Tuesday, July 27, that, in his “small” movie-theater company, families come first at Phoenix and in its theaters, and COO John Scanlan, talking to WKTV, made clear that Phoenix’s nimble “small” company structure is one of the reasons they were able to take advantage of the Woodland Mall opportunity.

Phoenix Theatres CEO Cory Jacobson. (WKTV)

The company is a 21-year-old independently owned movie theatre company that plans to invest $4 million to refurbish the 14-screen theatre, according to supplied material, a project which will expand a company which operates several theaters in Southeast Michigan as well as one each in Iowa and Massachusetts.

It is also a company which prides itself on having employees who have worked their way up from taking tickets and popping popcorn, to top-level management.

“All these people have something in common. They have all worked for our company for many, many years,” Jacobson said as he introduced his management team to the crowd at Woodland Mall. “All of the senior staff started out popping popcorn, ripping tickets, selling concession items.”
 

After Jacobson and others of the management team talked to the Woodland Mall crowd about his company’s “family” outlook, and his theaters’ amenities including plush twin seats that can be opened up for customer “families,” Scanlan also talked to WKTV about how being a now-not-so-small family-owned company allowed it to move quickly when the Woodland Mall opportunity presented itself. (See complete discussion in video below.)

“We are still nimble enough to pivot, and move, and we all work so closely together that we are  able to make these decision fairly quickly,” Scanlon said. “We have one owner (Cory Jacobson), we do not have to worry about having a group thought. … Cory can make decisions on the fly and that allows us to make decisions on the fly as well.”

Phoenix Theatres Woodland Mall outside view. (Supplied graphic)

Phoenix Theatres at Woodland Mall is the first major post-pandemic theatre investment in West Michigan, “signaling renewed confidence in the strength of this property and the regional economy,” according to PREIT, the mall’s parent company.

For Phoenix Theatres CEO Jacobson, the Woodland Mall expansion just felt right from the moment he first visited.

“Phoenix Theatres has always been a neighborhood theatre company, and that’s something we’re very proud of,” Jacobson said in supplied material. “After spending several weeks exploring the city, we felt very much at home in the culture of the community. Movie theatres are places where people come together to enjoy themselves. Creating an environment that celebrates community has always been our highest goal.”

After the renovations at the Woodland Mall location, the theater will be a 14-screen theatre within the 47,000-square-foot building, and will feature all-new premium reclining heated seating, 4K digital projection, Dolby Atmos, first-run movies and “family-friendly pricing.”

Wyoming plans two big events for this year’s National Night Out

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Ready to Ride: A Wyoming police officer helps a resident on a motorcycle. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

“It is basically our Super Bowl,” said Wyoming Officer Jenni Eby as she described National Night Out, which will take place Tuesday, Aug. 3.

“It is a nice opportunity for us to be able to focus on the people and the connection between the police and the community,” Eby said.

 

Give me five: A residents gives a Wyoming police officer a high-five. (WKTV)

Always the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out is a nationwide event that encourages residents to turn their porch lights on and come out and meet their neighbors. With last year’s pandemic, the event was cancelled.

“We are excited about seeing people especially since it has been more than a year,” Eby said.

 

A change for this year’s Wyoming event will be that the city will host two main sites, Grand Rapids First, 2100 44th St. SW, and Grace Christian University, 1011 Alden St. SW. Both locations will be open from 5 to 7 p.m.

“Our community service officers work very closely with the neighborhood associations over the years and this is something they wanted to try on a trial basis this year.” said Wyoming Department of Public Safety Chief Kim Koster during a recent council meeting. “They wanted to be able to bring all of our resources together and to have two big parties where people can come and enjoy all the services.

“Sometimes, say our K9 unit, they don’t have the time to make it to all 15 parties, so there are people who don’t get to see the K9 unit or get to see the motorcycle unit.”

By hosting the two larger events, it is the hope that these parties will have “a bigger splash,” allowing the Public Safety Department to have a greater reach and connect with more residents, Koster said.

Neighborhoods can still host individual events, she said, adding that if they reach out to the department, officers will see what they can do to have someone from the department stop by.

 

Eby said that the department’s resources will be split between the two locations.

“There will be K9s at both locations, as well motorcycles and other vehicles,” she said. “The tactical truck will be splitting its time between the two locations as there is only one.”

Basically, residents attending either location, GR First or Grace Christian University, will be able to see all that the Wyoming Department of Public Safety has available.

 

Flashing lights: Residents check out a Wyoming police car during a past National Night Out event. (WKTV)

Eby said there will be tables at both locations providing information on a variety of safety programs, such as:

Smart 911: With landlines, it was easy to determine where a call was being made. Cell phones make it much harder to know the location of the emergency. Through Smart 911, residents can create a free, secure profile that dispatch operators can call up to help police and rescue personal get to a person faster.

OK2SAY: This is a student safety program that operates similar to Silent Observer in that students are able to confidentially report tips on potential harm or criminal activities.

Stop the Bleed: A program that teaches people how to help those who are severely bleeding while waiting for first responders. 

‘Walking in Memphis’ with a friend — St. Cecilia offers 2-for-1 tickets on Marc Cohn’s Aug. 21 visit to Royce stage

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Singer/songwriter Marc Cohn will be bringing stories about his songs and songs about his stories to St. Cecilia Music Center. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

If you were thinking about getting tickets to see St. Cecilia Music Center’s first live folk concert in more than 18 months, Grammy award winning singer/songwriter Marc Cohn’s twice rescheduled visit on Aug. 21, the venue has a deal for you.

To mark the first live show since March 2020, St. Cecilia announced this week that tickets to Cohn’s performance were available with a “buy one, get one free” offer. The deal is only good through Friday, July 30, however.

Marc Cohn concert tickets are $40 and $45 and can be purchased by calling St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224 or visiting the box office at 24 Ransom Ave. NE. Tickets can also be purchased online at scmc-online.org.

Since Cohn was last at St. Cecilia, in Spring 2017, he has spent time on the road with legendary Michael McDonald, worked closely with David Crosby and other American music greats including soul survivor William Bell, who won his first Grammy at age 78 with Marc’s help in creating Bell’s celebrated album, “This is Where I Live”.

In August 2019, just months before the pandemic shutdown and his originally scheduled visit to St. Cecilia, Cohn released a soul/gospel/pop album “Work to Do”, along with Grammy Award winners Blind Boys of Alabama. The album’s collection “combined Cohn’s unique vocal and songwriting talents with the sanctified genius of these veteran gospel stars,” according to supplied material.

Cohn originally rose to musical fame when he won the Grammy for his soulful ballad “Walking in Memphis,” and since that time he has solidified his place as one of this generation’s “most compelling singer-songwriters, combining the precision of a brilliant tunesmith with the passion of a great soul man,” according to supplied material.

No less of a singer/songwriter than Bonnie Raitt reportedly said, “Marc is one of the most soulful, talented artists I know. I love his songs, he’s an incredible singer, and I marvel at his ability to mesmerize every audience he plays for.”

For more about Marc Cohn visit his website marccohnmusic.com.

City of Kentwood’s National Night Out return features community gatherings, public safety interactions

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The Kentwood police department will again be present at the Woodland Mall for National Night Out. (WKTV/2019)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood will be bustling with block parties, neighborhood events and other activities Tuesday, Aug. 3, as part of the city-and-community celebration of National Night Out, a nationwide annual event that “promotes community-police partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make communities safer.”

According to information provided by the city, National Night Out encourages people to turn their porch lights on and come outside to meet their neighbors, as well as community leaders, police and fire department personnel who will be out and about. The city also “encourages residents to continue to follow current public health guidelines.”

Kentwood police officers, firefighters and city leaders will join residents at more than 15 gatherings, most of which will take place between 6-8 p.m. Residents will have the opportunity to explore police cruisers, fire engines and other emergency response vehicles at events, as well as learn about a variety of safety topics.

“Positive interactions with residents are invaluable for fostering strong community relationships and safer neighborhoods,” Kentwood Police Chief Richard Roberts said in supplied material. “National Night Out creates a wonderful opportunity to bring officers and community members together in a fun and relaxing setting. Members of our department always look forward to getting to know residents better and encourage more open lines of communication.”

The Kentwood Police Department will once again partner with Woodland Mall to offer community members an up-close look at police vehicles inside the mall, from 3-5 p.m. Shoppers will be able to learn about and explore a police cruiser and motorcycle and enjoy giveaways.

In addition, several community-based events will be hosted throughout the evening and feature a variety of free activities, including appearances from McGruff the Crime Dog. Among the major event locations are:

Ada Bible Church, 1640 East Paris Ave. SE, which will offer food and activities from 5-8 p.m.

Faith Baptist Church, 1412 44th St. SE, which will have food trucks, live bands and prizes from 7-9 p.m.

Pentecostals Church, 2627 44th St. SE, which will host a party from 6-8 p.m., featuring a bounce house, food and games.

“National Night Out’s message of neighborhood connections and the importance of caring for one another is right in line with Kentwood’s community effort,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “The City’s leadership team is looking forward to a fun evening connecting with residents, celebrating community and learning about ways we can work together to keep Kentwood a wonderful and safe place to call home.”

 

More information about National Night Out events in Kentwood is available at kentwood.us/NNO.

National Night Out was created in the 1980s through an established network of law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch groups, crime prevention associations and volunteers across the nation. It began with a goal to promote safer, better neighborhoods by uniting community members and police against neighborhood crimes.

As courts come out of pandemic restrictions, trial backlog exists but jury numbers may also be an issue

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The Kentwood Justice Center which houses 62-B District Court and the Kentwood Police Department. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

All sides within the Kent County courts’ criminal trials system know that after more than a 18 months of a pandemic-related pause of in-person trials there will be issues as courts slowly resume a courtroom calendar — most especially a backlog of criminal and civil cases awaiting trial, a backlog that could take more than a year to clear.

All Kent County courts handing criminal trials — from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood’s smaller 62A and 62B district courts, to the larger countywide 63rd District and 17th Circuit courts — are now scheduling trials.

Kentwood’s 62B recently reported it held its first in-person trial in June and currently has a dozen or so scheduled through the end of the year — “We have a slight back log of cases waiting trial … All other hearings are current at 62B District Court,” a spokesperson for Judge Amanda Sterkenburg’s office told WKTV.

The 63rd District Court, however, will not begin criminal trials until mid-August, and their backlog could stretch out well into 2022 before a “sense of normal” returns, a situation most larger courts across the state are facing.

63rd district court Judge Sara J. Smolenski (Kent County)

“What is a sense of normal in the court system, that is a good question,” 63rd district court Judge Sara J. Smolenski said to WKTV. “Obviously, the pandemic has taken its toll on every aspect of our lives. Here at the Court,  we  are working daily to have things be more normal or resume to normal, but it is constantly evolving. A good guess would hopefully be by the end of 2021.”

While Judge Smolenski is, maybe, optimistic about the backlog, the leaders of the two criminal trial lawyer groups often in opposition in the courtroom — the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office and Kent County Office of the Defender — are not so optimistic.

“It will take at least a year to get back to ‘normal’ in my estimation,” Prosecutor Chris Becker said to WKTV. “There is such a backlog of cases, while adding new ones through all of this, there just is not an easy and fast way to catch up. It is going to take time to work through all of them.”

“Misdemeanors (in District Court) are a little better positioned for returning to normal sooner than felonies in Circuit Court,” Chris Dennie, Director, Kent County Office of the Defender, said to WKTV. “Even though there is quite a backlog, I can see getting close to usual in about a year.”

In general, the Kent County District Court system handles trials of civil suits involving $25,000 or less, and adult criminal misdemeanor offenses punishable by up to one year’s imprisonment. The Kent County Circuit Court is the trial court in all civil cases involving more than $25,000, in all criminal cases where the offense is a felony or a serious misdemeanor, as well as all domestic relations cases, and all child abuse, neglect, and delinquency cases.

No shortcuts in criminal cases during pandemic

All sides in the county’s legal system also make clear that while judges and opposing lowers have been “creative” is handling cases during the pandemic, nothing has been done to simply push cases through.

“Every case is dealt with on an individual basis,” Judge Smolenski said. “The right to a speedy trial is very important, but no one has ever been through a pandemic like this where for many months you couldn’t bring jurors together for a case. Defense attorneys and prosecutors are working together to resolve the cases that can be resolved.”

Prosecutor Becker and Defender Dennie might argue that judicial point, however.

“The judges have tried to encourage resolving cases throughout the pause in jury trials,” Dennie said. “However, the prosecutors (both county and city) must be willing and the offices have made it clear they do not want to have what they call a “fire sale” on cases. There has been some work to resolve cases, but not enough to make a big difference.”

“I’ve told my staff to know and go over their cases and make the best possible offer they can, without violating the norms of what we do,” Becker said. “I’m sure if I offered a misdemeanor larceny $200-1,000 to someone charged with an armed robbery felony, they would take that deal. We could ‘catch up’ the docket pretty quick that way. We are not going to do that however; we still have to consider plea offers in relationship to long term public safety and the victims who were impacted by the crime.

“We have done things around the edges more, we have given more sentence recommendations perhaps, but nothing extreme. Judges have gotten involved more as well in this area.”

Backlog not only problem awaiting return to ‘normal’

Two other issues which could come into play with the resumption of jury trials after about 18-months is the as-yet resolved issue of defendants not gaining a “speedy” trial during and of a possible reluctance of citizen jurors returning to their civic duties live and in the courtrooms.

Becker, however, does not think the denial of a speedy trial will be a big issue, but he does hedge his bets a bit.

The idea “has been raised in other places, and I’m sure it will be brought up again. So I can’t say it is a settled part of the law at all,” Becker said. “I’m not sure how successful it will be however, when you had the (State of Michigan) Supreme Court saying trials were not allowed for a large portion of the pandemic. It is fairly unprecedented, but not sure how you can hold a trial when being told not do by the people who run the court system to some extent.”

However, when it comes to the issue of juror reluctance, Judge Smolenski, Prosecutor Becker and Defender Dennie each expressed concern.

“It has been the jury trials, wherein we were prohibited from having groups of jurors in the courtroom, that has become our biggest focus to resolve,” Judge Smolenski said.

“Not sure (but) hearing reports in other areas of larger amount of jurors not showing up when summoned when things re-started,” Becker said. There is “still fear out there, and people may not want to show up in a public area when ordered to. So it will be interesting to see how jurors respond when called to serve.”

And that possible lack of ‘a jury of peers” is particularly of concern to Defender Dennie.

“Defense attorneys have been very concerned about getting a fair and true cross section of the community for the jury pools,” Dennie said. “I’ve been told that in practice, so far, as they send out jury summons, very few people are asking to be released. So we remain concerned, but hopeful, that our clients are able to have fair juries.

Jaded 8 brought a little rock ‘n’ roll to the Sounds of Summer series

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  • Organizer Patty Williams hangs with the Jaded 8 band members.
  • Jaded 8 provided the music as many enjoyed picnics during the show.
  • Organizer Patty Williams helps record the show.
  • Having a swinging good time at last Thursday’s Jaded 8 concert.
  • Lots of dancing and fun taking place.
  • Mark Pawlak on lead vocals and guitar
  • Jeffrey Post on bass and vocals
  • Jeffrey Post on bass and vocals
  • The crowd was dancing up a storm last Thursday.

By Patty Williams
P. Williams Production

P. Williams Productions featured rock night at the Thursday evening free concert series Sounds of Summer held in Cutler Park last Thursday.

Picnic baskets lined the park tables as fans awaited the 7 p.m. show. The playground was filled with children and laughter with their front row swing seats enjoying the classic rock tunes.

Jaded 8 band had the audience singing and dancing along to the timeless hits by Kiss, Journey, Bon Jovi and Bryan Adams just to name a few. The three-piece band rocking the park was lead by singer/guitarist Mark Pawlak with Lee Nelson on drums/vocals and Jeffrey Post Bass/vocals.

The July 29 Sounds of Summer Cutlerville grand finale show features national headliner Audie Blaylock and Redline bluegrass band. Show time is at 7 p.m. A food truck and beverages will be available at this week grand finale concert.

According to organizers, it has been such a great season with exceptional bands and large crowds in the park this year. The familiar faces at each week’s concert feels like family.

The Sounds of Summer is produced by P. Williams Productions and sponsored by Byron Township. 

David Gerald, and his ‘Power Trio’, set to bring Detroit power sounds to Kentwood summer concerts

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David Gerald (Courtesy of David Gerald)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

It is no coincidence that guitarist and vocalist David Gerald likes to call his tight, taught guitar-bass-drum group a “Power Trio” — seeing him on video, hearing him on vinyl, tells you he knows that his hometown Detroit blues, R&B and rock sound is all about bringing the power to the stage.

Which, we can assume, he and his trio will do, Thursday, July 29, as they visit the outdoor Kentwood Summer Concert free series for a 7 p.m. gig.

Gerald also knows all about the blues, coming from a family that lived it, and grabbing the power, from a father who grabbed it.

Gerald is the son of rural Mississippi born and raised parents, and while he was born in Detroit, the youngest of 11 children, six of his siblings were born and partly raised in Mississippi.

David Gerald. (Courtesy of David Gerald)

“Because segregation and racial discrimination were so bad in Mississippi at the time, my dad moved the family north to Detroit when he was 33, so we’d have a better chance at the American dream,” Gerald said in supplied material.

And Gerald’s version of the American Dream is playing his beloved Detroit-sound music — what he calls “blues-infused rock and soul hybrid” — with his lead guitar a central figure since he first pickup one up at age 14.

“I was lucky enough to have a neighbor who was a guitarist and gave me scrap guitars. I would piece them together and build ‘Frankenstein’ guitars,” Gerald said. “They were horrible to play and sounded bad, but I had to play music. It was and is my destiny. I finally scraped up enough money to buy an old amp and I was happy.”

After cutting his teeth and honing his guitar skills in the 1980s, he says he began to explore the music of blues guitar heavyweights like Albert King, ZZ Hill, B.B. King, and Stevie Ray Vaughan — and his sound “evolved and expanded to where it is today.”

His 2009 debut CD, “Hell And Back,” reached #1 on Roots Music Report’s Blues Chart for Michigan based artists and remained in the top 20 for many weeks in a row. His newest album, “N2U”, was released in April 2018.

“N2U” had “been a long time coming,” he said. “I put together these songs for myself, my friends and supporters. It’s all about new thoughts, new experiences and deeply felt emotions. I hope everyone who listens can find something that touches them. Something they can relate to.”

For more information on the David Gerald Band, visit davidgerald.com.

The Kentwood Summer Concert Series has two more Thursday night dates: The Accidentals on Aug. 5 and a rescheduled night with The Soul Syndicate on Aug. 19.

Concerts will be livestreamed by WKTV for those who would prefer to enjoy the performances from home.

Before the music starts, get a little treat at Kentwood Farmers Market. (WKTV/K/D. Norris)

All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., and conclude around 8:30 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair. Each concert will feature food trucks, which will have food and beverages available for purchase. Guests may also bring their own food and beer or wine.

All are also invited to visit the Kentwood Farmers Market, which overlaps with the concert schedule as the market will take place 4:30-7:30 p.m. each Thursday in front of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.

More information is available at kentwood.us/SummerConcertSeries.

It’s all about the nineties at the next Wyoming Concert in the Park

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Lamar Park has been packed for the Wyoming Concerts in the Park. The next concert is Tuesday, July 27. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Hip-hop, rap, reggae, contemporary R&B, teen pop, and dance-pop — there is no denying that the music of the nineties was eclectic.

 

And while categorizing the era may be nearly impossible, it’s cross-pollination of sounds left a boundary-break legacy that remains today. One of which was grunge music, an alternative forum of rock music that bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains were most known for.

It was, according to West Michigan band PROJECT 90, “the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock” which is the reason the five residents came together in 2016 to form the West Michigan-based group.

The nineties rock tribute band performs at Lamar Park Tuesday, July 27, as part of the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series. The concert is at 7 p.m.

 

PROJECT 90 comes to Lamar Park on Tuesday, July 27. (PROJECT 90)

“I thought it was an amazing crowd for the first night out there and in fact, I think it is the biggest opening crowd that I have seen,” said Mayor Jack Poll as he commented to the council at its Monday night council meeting about the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series. “It seemed to kick off really well.

“They are only doing four or five of them this summer…I always wander before time and talk to a lot of the folks that were there and there was just real enthusiasm to have it back and some of it may be due to COVID, but everyone wants to be outside and communicating with other people. So I thought the attitude and the response there for (the first week) was wonderful.”

Part of the goal of the Wyomig Community Enrichment Committee, which hosts the concerts for the city, is to offer a variety of music, according to LeighAnn TeBos, chair of the Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission. The second week featured the Yellow Brick Road Dueling Pianos with members performing an array of cover songs from such performers as Journey, Queen, Lady Gaga, and Elton John. This week is nineties music and the last concert, Aug. 3, will be country as local group Mustang Band performs.

In its five years, PROJECT 90s has racked up a number of awards including being named as best cover band in 2018 by “Revue” magazine. The group’s catalog includes an array of music from some of the leading nineties performers such as blink-182, Green Day, Bon Jovi, Radiohead, Smash Mouth, Cracker, Alice in Chains and 3 Doors Down. The five-piece rock band features lead vocals and corny jokes by Mark Gardner, guitars by Nolan Romzek and Brian Zeemering, bass and vocals by Matt Vail, and Stephen Legg on drums.

Lamar Park is located at 2561 Porter ST. SW. The concerts are recorded by WKTV and rebroadcasted on Comcast Channel 25 at 5 p.m. Wednesday and 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday. 

After reports of dead birds, West Nile virus infected mosquitoes confirmed in Kent County

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Brendan Earl, Kent County Parks’ supervising sanitarian, further discussed the relationship between dead birds and the virus, and what to do if people find dead birds. (Kent County Health Department)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

It has long been known that dead birds can be a sign of West Nile virus infected mosquitoes in the area, and there has been reports in Kent County of dead birds with no obvious injury. But today the Kent County Health Department confirmed that West Nile virus has been detected in tested mosquitoes — not in an infected human — in the county.

According to an health department announcement July 22, the  confirmation was made “during ongoing surveillance and testing” conducted by the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) The discovery comes after testing pools of mosquitoes that were trapped by the health department in the 49506 ZIP code (East Grand Rapids and area).

Brendan Earl, Kent County Parks’ supervising sanitarian, discussed with WKTV the relationship between dead birds and West Nile virus, and why the county is focused on testing live mosquitoes rather than dead birds.

A file photo of a Kent County technician testing mosquitoes for West Nile virus. (KCHD)

“Generally it (the virus) goes from mosquitoes to birds, and then (mosquitoes) to humans,” Earl said to WKTV. “It used to be you brought in a dead bird and you tested the bird, because finding a dead bird is pretty obvious, right, and concerning for most people.

“Here at the health department, we like to look at the mosquito because it is a step before the bird. It is more preventive, it allows us to realize that West Nile is in the environment, in our county, so we can get the word out and take proper precautions to prevent the transmission into humans.”

Additionally, Earl said, finding positive tests in dead birds is a delayed indicator of the virus’ presence.

“When a mosquito bites and transfers the virus into a bird, they act as a host. Now any mosquito that bites the bird will now, itself, become infected. So that will amplify the number of mosquitoes the are positive. Unlike humans, who are dead-end hosts — so if we have West Nile virus and a mosquito bites us, we are not going to transmit the virus to the mosquito.”

(Earl further discussed the relationship between dead birds and the virus, and what to do if people find dead birds, in the video above. This is a link to to report dead birds to the state.)

West Nile and human infection

Humans may be ‘dead-end’ hosts, as Earl said, and rarely have severe consequences from infection unless the person is already immune compromised, according to the Centers for Disease Control. But that does not mean precautions are not advised.

A mosquito’s bite could lead to infection with West Nile virus. (CDC)

“This discovery is important because it lets us know that this season’s mosquitoes are now carrying the virus and it could spread to humans,” Paul Bellamy, KCHD public health epidemiologist. “It is important for people to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites as much as possible.”

West Nile virus is spread primarily by infected Culex mosquitoes, according to KCHD. Only about 20 percent of the people infected will notice symptoms that may include headache, body aches, joint pains, and fatigue.

Most people with West Nile virus completely recover, but fatigue may linger. About 1 in 150 people infected develop severe illness that can affect the central nervous system. Recovery from West Nile virus may take several months. Some damage to the central nervous system can be permanent. In rare instances the disease can lead to death.

Since there is no vaccine or cure for West Nile virus, the best treatment is prevention. KCHD recommends the following measures:

Wear a mosquito repellant that contains 10 to 35 percent DEET.


Wear light colored clothing and stay indoors during dusk to reduce your risk of being bitten.


Remove or refresh water in bird baths, children’s wading pools, water bowls for your pets, and empty other small containers that can collect water in your yard.

More information about prevention can be found at accesskent.com.

Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum, 2021 Primary Election: Kentwood City Commissioner Ward 2

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted candidate forums for elections in the Wyoming and Kentwood area. One of them was the City of Kentwood City Commission Ward 2 candidate forum. The forums were produced through the facilities of WKTV Community Media.

Kentwood’s Ward 2 includes voting Precincts 10-18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. For a precinct and ward map, click here.

The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Tom McKelvey and challengers Jessica Ann Tyson and Dan VanderMolen. The top two vote-getters will move on to the November general election (unless one of the primary candidates get 50 percent plus 1 vote in the primary, in which case they will win the seat).

Note: Commissioner McKelvey and Ms. Tyson were able to attend the forum via Zoom; Mr. VanderMolen was not able to attend.

Kentwood City Commissioner candidate forum will air on WKTV Government 26, Friday, July 23, at 8:50 p.m. (immediately following the rebroadcast of this week’s Kentwood Commission Meeting), on Wednesday, July 28, at 8 p.m.; Friday, July 30, at 6:30 p.m.; and Saturday, July 31, at 1 p.m. It is also available on demand at WKTVvideos on YouTube.

For more information on the candidates in the City of Kentwood City Commission Ward 2 primary election, see this WKTV Journal story on our We The People videos of the race.

 

Kent County Veterans Services set to recognize often overlooked female vets with special night

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Local female veterans at a “female only” retreat early this year. (KC Veterans Services)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Kent County Veterans Services recently, and quite literally, opened its office doors to all county veterans and families in need of support and services. And the office is making sure the “all” in “all county veterans” includes female veterans.

To that end, the office is hosting the first of what it plans to be annual Female Veterans Banquet, July 31, at the American Legion Boat and Canoe Club in Grand Rapids. RSVPs are requested by Friday, July 23.

The banquet, a semi-formal affair with the fun of dinner and dancing, and the distinguished speaking of the honorable Rosemary Aqualina, JD, and United States Air Force veteran; and Deborah Brown, DMD and MHS, and U.SA. Army Veteran. It will run 6-11 p.m.

It will also be a night to celebrate female veterans, an often under-celebrated group of veterans.

“The idea for the banquet came from former (Veterans Services Advisory Committee) chair Mel Bauman, and the committee … decided to go ahead with it as part of KCVS overall initiative to engage more female vets in activities and services that are available to them,” Martha Burkett, manager of Kent County Veterans Services, said to WKTV.

“This banquet is an opportunity to celebrate female veterans, to thank them for their service and to acknowledge them for the amazing people that they are and the sacrifices they have made.”

And while all veterans should be thanked for their service, and the sacrifices they have made, female veterans are often left out of the celebrations and recognitions. And the reasons are manyfold.

Female (and male) veterans at an art workshop. (KC Veterans Services)

“Women are less likely to publicly identify as veterans than their male counterparts, and the public does not make a great effort to engage them,” Burkett said. “Often in situations when veterans are being recognized, men will be noticed and commended — even in couples where the man and woman are both vets, the public assumes that he is a vet and she is not. If a woman is unaccompanied in such a situation, unless she is wearing clothing or patches /pins that identify her as a veteran, she is likely to be overlooked entirely.”

Another reason, just beginning to be recognized and addressed, is women in the military sometimes experience military sexual trauma, bullying, and marginalization, Burkett said.

“This is not to say that males to not have these experiences, but it happens less frequently and/or they are less likely to report. Women are also reluctant to report, fearing retaliation and invalidation by their superiors and peers. Often male colleagues will cover for each other, or the military will move the woman to another military base rather than sanctioning the man.

“They make the same sacrifices as men and often experience hostile work and or living environments. Some women have a wonderful experience in the military and are impacted very little by the concerns that I mentioned. Others are greatly impacted and often harbor un earned feelings of shame and guilt or failure about their ability or inability to cope in the environment.”

Female veterans attend an online workshop. (KC Veterans Services)

The bottom line is the a veteran is a veteran, regardless of gender, and the Female Veterans Banquet is addressing that fact.

“Women in the military are as essential and effective in their roles as men,” Burkett said. “Women in the military are smart, strong, capable, and courageous and should be recognized for their efforts accordingly.”

For more information on the Female Veterans Banquet, and to sign up, visit here.

Kent County Veterans Services is located at 836 Fuller NE, Grand Rapids. For more information visit kentcountyveteransservices.com or call 616-632-5722.

Dalmatian Stone, with a little stone soul rhythm, coming to Kentwood summer concerts

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Dalmatian Stone (Supplied/Dalmatian Stone)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

There are times when Dalmatian Stone, bringing their soulful blues sound to the Kentwood Summer Concert Series this week, wants (or needs) to be small and tight, and times when it wants to be big and brassy.

Either way, the group — whose members make up the core of the The Stone Soul Rhythm Band — will be offering up a mix of sweet Motown soul to today’s hot funk and dance “and a whole lot of recognizable fun in between,” according to Diego Morales, the leader of what he calls his “mad musical laboratory.”

And why the two bands and two band names?

“Dalmatian Stone is its own entity as an original recording band and for special events, etc., which allows us to keep a good mix of covers with our original music,” Morales said to WKTV. “As that entity we were finding it difficult to secure as many gigs as we had hoped for since the market here really calls for cover bands and original bands need to either play for very little money or travel quite a bit.

“So we decided to resurrect my old band, The Soulz of Rhythm, to pick up extra gigs but found it easier to consolidate into something new, The Stone Soul Rhythm Band, covering songs from Motown soul, R&B through 70’s disco funk, and horn bands like Chicago, Ides of March, Lighthouse and such. … In short we can come to any venue as either entity with or without horns.”

So, while it will be the smaller Dalmatian Stone beginning on stage Thursday, July 22, Morales said “As a special treat we were planning on inviting our horn section up for the last few songs. In essence converting into The Stone Soul Rhythm Band.”

The best of both worlds of music.

For more information on The Stone Soul Rhythm Band (and Dalmatian Stone), visit facebook.com/StoneSoulRhythmBand.

The Kentwood Summer Concert Series, which will run most Thursday nights through Aug. 19, with David Gerald on July 29, The Accidentals on Aug. 5 and a rescheduled night with The Soul Syndicate on Aug. 19.

Concerts will be livestreamed by WKTV for those who would prefer to enjoy the performances from home.

All concerts will begin at 7 p.m., and conclude around 8:30 p.m., on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair. Each concert will feature food trucks, which will have food and beverages available for purchase. Guests may also bring their own food and beer or wine.

All are also invited to visit the Kentwood Farmers Market, which overlaps with the concert schedule as the market will take place 4:30-7:30 p.m. each Thursday in front of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE.

More information is available at kentwood.us/SummerConcertSeries.