This exciting exhibit provides new insights into biology and technology with eight robotic animals of considerable size. Visitors will discover how chameleons change color, giant squids propel themselves, flies walk on the ceiling and more.
Over a dozen hands-on activities illustrate fascinating real-life animal characteristics. Cutaways expose the mechanical animals’ insides as a host of easily recognizable machine parts and gadgets that demonstrate what makes them work.
“By comparing the anatomy, environments, and size of the actual creatures to the mechanic counterparts, The Robot Zoo provides fantastic new insights into biology and engineering, and hands-on fun for all ages,” the website states. “This exhibit reveals the magic of nature as a master engineer.”
Plan a field trip!
Educators are invited to bring students to experience The Robot Zoo. GRPM’s Educator’s Guide can enhance your group’s visit with a fun collection of multidisciplinary activities.
Insect investigations, sensory experiences of the rhinoceros and additional crafts and experiments can be utilized before or after the exhibit experience.
Cutaways expose the mechanical animals’ insides as a host of easily recognizable machine parts and gadgets (Courtesy, GRPM)
Dive deeper with books!
The GRPM and Kent District Library have collaborated to expand learning opportunities about biology, robotics and biomechanics with a variety of English and Spanish book titles for all ages.
Explore the fascinating worlds of animals and machines with these books!
McQuade’s book focuses on breaks down the ways disinformation has become a tool to drive voters to extremes, disempower our legal structures, and consolidate power in the hands of the few (Courtesy photo)
During the event, McQuade will focus on identifying ways disinformation is seeping into facets of society and how to fight against it.
“After a thought-provoking program with Barbara McQuade in Ann Arbor in April, we are very excited to welcome her to our West Michigan audience at the Ford Museum,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. “We hope our guests will enjoy hearing her describe her research and practical solutions to combat disinformation.”
Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with McQuade in an inclusive setting, posing questions and delving deeper into this timely topic. A book signing will follow the event.
“We are delighted to partner with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum and Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation to host Barbara McQuade as she shares her insights about the dangers of misinformation,” said Megan Rydecki, Director of the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies.
“As we seek to grow a community of ethical, effective leaders for the 21st century, it is imperative that we advocate for truth and fact-based information.”
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Author details and event links
McQuade is a professor at the University of Michigan Law School, where she teaches criminal law and national security law. She is also a legal analyst for NBC News and MSNBC.
From 2010 to 2017, McQuade served as the U.S Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan.
She was appointed by President Barack Obama, and was the first woman to serve in her position.
McQuade also served as vice chair of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee and co-chaired its Terrorism and National Security Subcommittee.
For more information and to register for the event, click here.
A celestial phenomenon will sweep across North America and the Northern Midwest on Monday, April 8, 2024 – and Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is inviting visitors to join them inside and outside the Museum for an eclipse viewing party.
Supported by WOOD TV8, this event will feature live streams from the path of totality on the Meijer Theatre with commentary from Museum staff, a special planetarium show schedule, astronomy-themed activities with community partners, and access to solar telescopes on the Blue Bridge with the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association (GRAA).
What is a solar eclipse?
An eclipse is defined as a phenomenon where the moon passes in front of the sun, blocking it completely and casting a shadow onto our planet.
Two things need to occur at once to see a solar eclipse: the sun, moon, and earth need to be in a straight line, with the moon between the sun and earth; and you need to be standing in the correct spot on earth.
What you need to know
(Courtesy, GRPM)
All eclipse events inside the GRPM are free with general admission. Telescope access along the Blue Bridge is free to the public.
Protective eyewear is necessary to view the eclipse safely. Eclipse glasses are available for purchase in The Curiosity Shop while supplies last for $1.75. The Curiosity Shop is open to the public, no admission required.
Don’t miss this opportunity!
(Courtesy, Amanda Pitts)
April 8 will be the last chance to witness an eclipse this close to Michigan for decades.
Observe the awe of a total solar eclipse as it graces North America, journeying from Mexico, cutting through states like Texas, Oklahoma, and reaching 100% coverage in Ohio and Indiana, before continuing through the Northeast and entering Canada.
Find GRPM Total Eclipse Day viewing party and event details here.
Find more solar eclipse information and GIF animations here.
It was a hot summer evening in 1923 when a group of Grand Rapids women ignited the spark that would become the iconic Women’s City Club of Grand Rapids (WCC).
One hundred years later, the women of Grand Rapids continue to provide support for each other and for their community through charitable and educational outreach…and fun.
On March 14, the GR Stories program – hosted by the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) and the WCC – celebrated a century of resilience, influence and impact.
WCC historians Carol Dodge and Marcie Woods presented an oral history titled “Our First One Hundred Years” during the celebration. The presentation was derived from the WCC’s recently published centennial book bearing the same name and co-authored by Dodge and Woods.
“This Women’s City Club knows no boundaries,” said Judge Sara Smolenski during the event. “They’re in our community helping, reaching out and making an impact.”
This is the story of Grand Rapids’ most influential women and their legacy of resilience in times of challenge.
The year is 1923
It’s the roaring 20s. It’s a jazz age, another year of prohibition and speak-easies. Women have the right to vote. It was declared legal for women to wear trousers anywhere. It’s a year of prosperity, and there are new roles for women.
WCC historians Marcie Woods (left) and Carol Dodge present the history of the Club (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
On a hot July evening in 1923, a group of women sat on the steps of the Grand Rapids YWCA and dreamed about having a place to gather, socialize, entertain and inform. They longed to be women of common interest in the welfare of the city in public issues.
A spark was ignited. On January 4, 1924, an enthusiastic group of women came together in the first official meeting of the WCC.
“The Club was started at just the right time, with just the right people,” said Dodge during the presentation. “The community leaders among the women of Grand Rapids were the early leaders of the City Club, and they were diligent in inviting other civic-minded women to join.”
With annual dues set at $10 and meeting rooms at the Morton Hotel, the WCC was off and running.
When the Sweet House came on the market in 1927, the Club purchased and remodeled the building for their clubhouse. Almost everything inside the House was given or loaned to the Club.
By the end of the decade, the Club had 1,800 members and 165 on a waiting list.
The economy was down with the 1929 market crash, but optimism was high at WCC. It had become a welcoming second home for many women in the community.
The 1930s rolled inwith a vengeance
The Club was not immune to the trouble following the Great Depression.Membership dropped to 800 in 1933. Losing over half of their members, the board worked diligently to keep the doors open.
WCC member Rebecca Sneller performed a song from each decade (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
WCC members were empathetic to those less fortunate during the Depression. Their auditorium was turned into a sewing and workroom, and clothing was made for families in need. Food, books, and toys were collected and distributed.
As the economy turned around, so did membership numbers.
In 1936, membership had become so desirable that a membership limit of 1,400 was set – and they also had a waiting list.
The 1930s featured teas and dances. Many well-known guests presented at the Club during this time. Among them were Winston Churchill’s son Randolph and aviatrix Amelia Earhart. The first Bob Cratchit Holiday Dinner was served, and became a tradition for 77 years.
“During these difficult Depression years, the Club did not miss a single mortgage payment, and we ended the 1930s on a high note,” said Dodge. “The mortgage of the Club was burned, and after 12 years we were debt-free.
The 1940s were called the War Years
A WCC Friendship Quilt made in 1993 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Hazel Whitaker Vandenberg, a charter member of the Club and Senator Vandenberg’s wife, kept Club members abreast with her monthly bulletin reports from Washington DC.
Monthly urgent pleas went out to members for volunteers to help in the National Defense program.
The WCC auditorium was once again turned into a workroom where surgical dressings were wrapped, sewing machines made surgical gowns, baby blankets and baby layettes. Women were trained to serve in city hospitals to relieve the shortage of medical staff.
“Our members were active,” said Dodge. “Many were heads of war relief programs in the city.”
The Club collected money to buy personal items for wounded soldiers, and monthly hospitality events were held to entertain the soldiers from the Army Air Force Weather School.
“At the end of the war, the Club celebrated and offered thanksgiving for victory,” said Dodge. “And now it was time to plan for the future.”
1950 brought a revolution of the WCC bulletin
The bulletin was an extremely important part of WCC right from the beginning with its first editor, Miss Christine Keck. The WCC’s third president, Keck was the first to realize that included ads would defray cost.
Marcie Woods (right) signs a copy of the centennial book for a member (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Next came Miss Mabel Allen, who edited the bulletin for 35 years. Allen was in charge of all ads and editing, but had two dozen women gathering information and writing articles. The bulletins were now 50 pages long, with 40 ads in the January 1950 edition alone.
The bulletin covered all Club activities, added humor, and kept local women in touch with the world. It presented local and national issues and urged members to vote.
“It showed us where we could be active,” said Woods. “The goal was for each woman to be noteworthy in the life of the city.”
WCC ended the decade with an all-time high of 2,400 members and another 400 on the waiting list.
The 1960swere a tipping point
WCC members talk during the reception (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Membership remained at a high of 2,400.Three hundred of those members were on committees. They gave over 40,000 hours of volunteer work each year.
WCC began a six-week series on local national and international affairs issues. Armchair Cruises were established with a Club dinner featuring food related to the country shown on the slides. Exceptionally well-attended, Armchair Cruises continued for 20 years.
At the end of the decade, the Club still had 2,400 members but the waiting list had dropped to 36.
The 1960s were a tipping point for the entire nation. Clubs, churches and civic organizations all showed declining numbers.
The 1970s introduced a time of firsts
The Club turned 50 years old. Women could register under their own names – they did not have to be “Mrs. Him.” They had the freedom of wearing more casual clothing, including sandals – and no hats.
Helen Claytor, the first African American woman in the United States to be president of a community YWCA, joined the WCC. It was also the national bicentennial and Grand Rapids sesquicentennial.
Membership dropped, decreasing Club income. At the end of the decade, the WCC dining room, bulletin, parking lot and library budgets were in deficit. After years aplenty, the Club had to dip into reserve funds.
Carol Dodge signs a copy of “Our First One Hundred Years” (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The 1980s began with 1,700 members
Fashionettes continued, and the Travel Committee booked several trips. A WCC favorite was Barbara Rinella, who performed book reviews in costume for 15 years.
The women did what they could to save and raise money for the Club. But the decade still ended with a deficit, and membership dropped by 500, leaving only 1,200 members.
The 1990s was a decade of ups and downs
Mother Teresa and Princess Diana were lost. There was 24-hour coverage of Desert Storm. For the City Club, an “up” included $115,000 raised through a diligent campaign called Rising to the Future.
The board continued to vigorously promote membership and retention. The bylaws were amended to change the word “woman” to “person.” Joint ventures with the World Affairs Council and the Ladies Literary Guild were initiated, and the Club opened two Saturdays a month.
Budget issues remained a concern as house maintenance costs continued to mount. In 1998, a fundraising campaign was held, raising over $40,000 and enabling the Club to get through that decade.
It was apparent that changes needed to be made.
The world slipped quietly into the new century without Y2K predictions coming true
The world watched the horror of the 9/11 attacks and worried about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Women’s City Club stepped into the new century with anxiety, with anticipation of a committed membership, and a vision for the future.
The silver tea set is original to the Sweet House (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
“It was a decade of transition for the Club,” said Dodge. “We did continue the tradition of excellent programs and activities. We learned from city and world leaders.”
The Club’s Women’s City Antique Roadshow brought in people from the community. Club members donated clothing and gifts for children and clothing for women needing interview attire.
Because of budget deficits, their dwindling assets became a critical issue. Something had to be done.
“We had talked about it a long time, but now we had to make changes,” said Dodge. “We had to take action.”
An automated bookkeeping system and a strong marketing committee diligently promoting the Club were a few of those changes. They also held additional evening programs that were met with rave reviews.
The WCC formed the 501c3 Sweet House Foundation, allowing members and the community to donate tax-free dollars for the maintenance and preservation of the House.
This helped the Club end the last three years of the decade in the black and do much-needed maintenance and repairs on the clubhouse.
At the end of the decade, WCC had 223 members and 15 additional 50-year members.
The new decade began with relief, hope and high tech
WCC entered the electronic age with a website and social media presence. Simultaneously, the History Committee preserved the past by acquiring all 75 years of Club records and archiving them at the Grand Rapids Public Library.
Women’s City Club of Grand Rapids 100th birthday luncheon (Courtesy, WCC)
As an ArtPrize venue, tens of thousands came through the Sweet House, attracting more women to try a trial Club membership.
Things were looking up. Then the computer system crashed. The Club manager retired. The new management software was too complicated for staff to use. The dining room manager quit. The treasurer quit. In the new year, the general manager quit.
“And then came the bad news,” said Woods.
WCC’s reserve funds were almost gone. The accountants gave the Club six months until bankruptcy.
“We had choices,” said Woods. “Do nothing and let the Club die, stay in the House but close the dining room, or move to a different location.” Woods paused. “We chose to leave.”
On April 28, 2018, the WCC left their home of 91 years.
But…guess what?
“We are alive and well,” said Woods.
The WCC overcame decades of challenges and found new locations to meet and new opportunities for giving. Club members continued to create a legacy of compassion and charity through countless donations, by creating the Impact Award for juniors at Union High School, and creating a legacy that is embodied in the Sweet House.
“But that’s merely our physical legacy,” said Woods. “Our living legacy is our members. Many of our members throughout our history have been active in nearly every influential organization in the city.
We are women of influence, of impact, separately and together. And have been for 100 years.”
Woods continued, “Together, we find the support, inspiration, enrichment and friendship that tie us all together. Our social and educational programs, classes, and the opportunities to build relationships continue to offer the women of Grand Rapids a place to belong, to give back to the community.
“That is the history of the Women’s City Club.”
About the WCC historians
Carol Dodge worked in the insurance industry for over 35 years, is one of the founding members of the Sweet House Foundation, was WCC president from 2005-2007, and is a Club historian.
Marcie Woods was a professional educator who taught at several area schools, is editor-in-chief of the WCC bulletin, and also serves as a Club historian.
Curated by the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, “Concerts Under the Stars” is an immersive full-dome concert experience highlighting local musicians and visual artists.
Local West Michigan bands will perform their music, enhanced by original video art projected onto the Planetarium’s 50-foot dome. Upcoming local visual artists collaborate with the musicians to weave together an exclusive concert experience.
First to take the stage
GRPM is kicking off the 2024 series on Jan. 11 and 12 with Silent Spirit, a Grand Rapids electronic music sensation. Silent Spirit combines synthesis and contemplative rhythms to create organic atmospheres and reflective environments.
Performances will be accompanied by a full-dome visual display presented by local artist, iVy Garvey.
Attendees are invited to explore their inner selves and imagine themselves immersed in a world drawn from inspiration of the natural world.
Must-know details
Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Visitors are invited to explore the Museum’s first two floors of exhibits during the cocktail hour before the concert.
Visitors can grab a drink and explore the first two floors of GRPM before the concerts (Courtesy, GRPM)
Performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer, and other beverages will be available for purchase.
Parking is available through GVSU and the Museum’s parking ramp and will be validated for GRPM parking ramp guests.
Tickets are $20, with discounted pricing of $16 for GRPM members. Children must attend with an adult.
Details for February and March performances can be found here.
*Please be aware that shows may contain bright lights or dizzying visuals.
“Ice Age: Michgian’s Frozen Secrets” features how Michigan landscapes looked thousands of years ago. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
By Adam Brown WKTV Contributor
Have you ever wished to go back in time to the dawn of the Ice Age? Or look at the impacts of snow on a global scale? Now you can, with the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s new exhibits Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets and Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact.
What Are the New Exhibits?
Set to run May 20 through Sept. 3, the new exhibits put a unique Michigan spin on global events. In addition, they continue the GRPM’s mission of educating the public through immersive and enriching displays. Of the GRPM’s new additions, Public Museum’s Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations Dustin Tyler noted, “Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets and Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact are two incredibly unique and exciting exhibits that we are thrilled to bring to our community. We believe both exhibits will provide visitors with unforgettable educational experiences and inspire curiosity about Michigan’s history and the impact of snow on our environment.”
Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets
Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets localizes the historical period, focusing on modern-day West Michigan when prehistoric animals dominated the Earth. The exhibit depicts how the landscape looked thousands of years ago, with a chance to interact with some of the area’s native creatures. In addition, patrons can enjoy tactile experiences where they can handle actual fossilized bones and teeth from the era. The available bones come from a selection of a recently discovered mastodon in the Grand Rapids area.
Visitors will be able touch mastodon bones that were found in Grand Rapids. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
In August 2022, mastodon bones were uncovered during a construction dig at the Grand Rapids property of Michael and Courtney Clapp. Wanting to keep the artifacts local and accessible to the public, the Clapps donated their namesake Clapp Family Mastodon to the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The recovered bones form the basis of the Ice Age exhibit. In this fully immersive experience, visitors are encouraged to touch and observe the bones and teeth, connecting them to the life of early humans in the area.
Though designed to supplement material learned in the classroom, Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets is geared toward all ages, per GRPM Marketing Manager Sara Olsen. People naturally question what their home state might have looked like in the prehistoric era. This exhibit is designed to answer those burning questions by allowing museumgoers to physically interact with what came before.
Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact
Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact takes the opposite route, looking at snow globally and how it impacts worldwide climate systems. No matter where we live, snow impacts us all. In this exhibit, patrons can examine all the ways this natural weather phenomenon affects the globe.
“Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact” will look at how snow impacts worldwide climate systems. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
While new to the GRPM, Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact was initially developed by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland, Oregon. Like the GRPM, the OMSI is devoted to fostering learning and curiosity in its visitors through interactive experiments, exhibits, and demonstrations for a younger, school-age demographic.
In Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact, guests answer one fundamental question. What is snow? An immersive digital snowstorm enables visitors to interact with snow crystals, examining how each is truly unique. While all ages may enjoy the exhibit, the tactile games make the experience especially rewarding for the younger crowd by allowing them to take an interactive role in the process, per Olson. Guests can also listen to oral histories about snow from elders and culture leaders of the Inupiaq tribes to supplement the interactive game. These elements seek to educate the public about the importance of snow in the worldwide climate system and how each tiny crystal has a global impact.
Despite differing scopes and content, the GRPM designed Ice Age: Michigan’s Frozen Secrets and Snow: Tiny Crystals, Global Impact to work in tandem with one another. Both offer glimpses into climate and weather patterns over time and allow patrons to interact with those patterns while building an understanding of the world around them.
Guests who purchase general admission tickets to the GRPM between May 20 and Sept. 3 can participate in the new exhibits, with free admission for those 17 and under. In addition, members can receive early access to the exhibits through an exclusive members only preview. Those interested may find information on museum hours and ticket prices at the GRPM’s official website.
Saturday Investigation Classes at the Grand Rapids Public Museum in March. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM)’s Saturday Investigation Classes will return during the month of March 2023, allowing curious minds to immerse themselves in exciting and educational labs and activities led by Museum educators.
Visitors aged 8 and older are encouraged to sign up for these small-group, hands-on educational classes to investigate history, science, and culture. Saturday Investigations transform the Museum into a learning lab, giving the public an exclusive experience through behind-the-scenes exhibit exploration, artifact investigation, engaging activities, and more. This experience is great for younger children to attend with their parents or guardians to work together, or for older kids to attend on their own.
Classes will take place on Saturdays from March 4 – 25 from 10:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the GRPM. The registration cost for Saturday Investigations is just $2 with the purchase of a general admission ticket or $7 to attend the class only. As always, Kent County kids aged 17 and under enjoy free general admission to the Museum! Classes are limited to 24 registrants per session; registration is required. Once classes conclude, visitors who purchase the general admission option can also explore the Museum’s three floors of exhibits. For more information on Saturday Investigation Classes and to register today, visit grpm.org/EduClasses.
“Our popular Saturday investigations are back this spring to give learners of all ages the opportunity to dive deeper into the city’s science and history, through fun, hands-on artifact labs and brand new technology-rich experiences,” said Erin Koren, the GRPM’s Director of Education. “These small classes allow participants to fully engage with our educators and with hands-on activities to explore what piques their curiosity.”
Class offerings include The Paradox of Poison, Sustainable Fashion, Solar System Discovery & Sturgeon Excursion. Registrants can explore fascinating facts of poisons and their role in nature, human health, literature, and myth, find ways to innovate and reduce the harmful impacts of the fashion industry, choose their own adventure as they travel the solar system to visit planets and asteroids, or play an exclusive augmented reality game that integrates with Museum exhibits and become environmental scientists while learning about the Grand River.
Saturday Investigations Classes are sponsored by Great Lakes Fishery Trust.
See The Power of Poison and the GRPM original exhibit Fashion + Nature for a limited time! Enjoy all three floors of the GRPM’s exhibits with the purchase of a general admission ticket to the Museum. Don’t miss this opportunity to catch The Power of Poisonbefore it’s gone, open only through April 16.
The sturgeon tank at the Grand Rapids Public Museum is located on the top floor with a window overlooking the Grand River. (WKTV/Adam Brown)
A new immersive experience for the whole family has arrived at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. The Sturgeon Excursion, the first interactive virtual game built on the museum’s new PublicOS platform, is now open to the public.
The Sturgeon Excursion is an element of the larger aquatic exhibit known as Grand Fish, Grand River. Chief Curator Alex Forist said the exhibit tells the story of lake sturgeon and their unique role in the watershed and native culture of the region. In addition, Grand Fish, Grand River seeks to educate the public about threats faced by the lake sturgeon, including how they have become endangered due to overharvesting and what the public can do to help.
Sturgeon Excursion is a natural extension of that educational mission. Patrons may visit Grand Fish, Grand River to read about lake sturgeon, with the interactive game as an option for those visitors looking for a deeper dive and a way to interact personally.
“Human beings are social learners,” said GRPM Digital Strategist Josh Freeney. “We like learning with other humans, that’s why a place like a museum is so amazing.”
Simply put, a museum is a place to share a learning experience with others since we all experience the exhibits together. The digital game enhances that experience by immersing patrons in the exhibit’s distinct world.
What is the Sturgeon Excursion game?
To play the Sturgeon Excursion, GRPM guests can scan any of the QR codes around the exhibit with their personal devices. Then, players are given a virtual sturgeon and tasked with helping it swim to freedom by traveling down the Grand River into Lake Michigan. The game asks questions, which the player can answer by watching a brief video or reading the information around the room. Each correct answer gives the player a piece of virtual food to feed the sturgeon. Give the sturgeon enough food, and it will grow big enough to swim to freedom.
Screenshot of the online game available on the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s website. (WKTV)
The Sturgeon Excursion is not limited to Grand Fish, Grand River. To get enough food to free the sturgeon, players must also visit two other exhibits – West Michigan Habitats and Anishinabek: The People of This Place. Players learn about the sturgeon and answer questions through the context of these other exhibits, with the Anishinabek exhibit adding the historical factor.
There is a single-player option intended for members of the general public, where one patron plays the game on their own device. The game also features a multiplayer component that the GRPM designs for student groups from local schools. With this method, all players collaborate and share one sturgeon. Multiplayer encourages students to work and learn together to help the sturgeon get to Lake Michigan.
Per Freeney, the GRPM hopes to make the multiplayer version more accessible to the general public, which is why they encourage the public to play the game and give feedback on what works and what might not. In addition, the QR code method was designed to increase accessibility, allowing anyone with any device to play the game.
The Public Response
The public response to the Sturgeon Excursion game and greater Grand Fish, Grand River exhibit has been positive overall. Freeney highlights one instance of a school group acting particularly rowdy, then working together to help the virtual fish when given the tasks of the digital game. Also, when quizzed about what they learned at the end of the game, the group answered every question correctly.
Participants answer a series of questions to move through different levels in the game. (WKTV)
Freeney attributes this to the “game-ified” nature of the experience, as it is still a quiz but disguised as a scavenger hunt-type game. As a result, the students learn valuable information all through the lens of a fun, interactive virtual game.
All the information in the game is available around the exhibit’s room. However, it’s the presentation of that material that matters. Each person learns differently, and younger students learn better when playing a game versus reading books and facts.
What the Future Holds
Ultimately, Forist said he hopes that the game, coupled with the related exhibits and historical context, can one day be taken out of the museum into the community to increase public awareness.
“Eventually, this will help us break outside of the walls of the museum altogether. There’s all kinds of great content and learning opportunities in the community,” Forist said. “If we can still bring that museum quality experience to those, it’s unlimited where you could go with it.”
The GRPM’s digital platform allows for easy communication and collaboration between the museum, the local community, and other institutions sharing the same mission.
A remote version of the game is also available for those who cannot make it to the museum. Originally developed as a contingency after Covid-19 closed the museum, the remote game remains available and follows a similar setup as the in-person game. Schools can log on to the game remotely and work together to answer the questions, and single players can access the game from home, at work, or wherever they might be. The remote game features a virtual map of the museum, complete with models of the accompanying exhibits, so all of the information from the museum is accessible to those who cannot physically attend.
With the remote option, each person can learn in whatever way suits them best, whether by physically coming in or remaining in the comfort of their home. The public can access the remote version by visiting the Grand Fish, Grand River page on the GRPM’s website.
Artist Margaret Vega’s ofrenda for her father, Francisco Vega. (WKTV/Renee Karadsheh)
Veronica Quintino-Aranda’s brother died before her younger sister was born yet her sister has a connection to him because of the family’s tradition of honoring the brother’s memory during Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos).
“We remember who he was,” said Quintino-Aranda, a member of the Latino Community Coalition which has collaborated with the Grand Rapids Public Museum on a Day of the Dead exhibit. “We share stories. We share memories. We share his favorite food.
“Even though my sister has never meet him because he died before she was born, she still knows who he was and how important he was to our family.”
A tradition that dates back to the Mayans and Aztecs
Running through Nov. 27, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is featuring the Field Musuem’s “A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico.” Through 26 photographs, the exhibit explores the significance of the Day of the Dead celebrations in Oaxaca, a southern region of Mexico.
Traditionally observed on Nov. 1 and 2, Day of the Dead/Dia de los Muertos is an indigenous holiday that originated in southern Mexico and celebrates the remembrance of family members and friends who have died. Part of that celebration includes the creation of an ofrenda, or a home alter, honoring the deceased.
The tradition and symbols date back to the Mayans and Aztecs, who had a whole month dedicated to the dead, according to Quintino-Aranda. The expansion of catholicism in Mexico altered some of the symbols but the the focus on celebrating the dead remained.
Veronica Quintino-Aranda and Javier Cervantes (WKTV/Renee Karadsheh)
“On my home alter, and we have a catholic tradition, we have the candle that symbolizes we are the light of the world,” Quintino-Aranda said. “We have the arch toward heaven and incense that indicates that our prayers are going up to him. We also have soil that symbolizes that we are dust and are destained to return. We also have items that represent (my brother) and of course, his picture.”
Exploring local history and culture
Almost 600,000 Hispanics live in West Michigan with the Hispanic population making up about 16 percent, almost 16,000, in the Grand Rapids area. As the Hispanic community grew, many brought their traditions to the West Michigan area with the Day of the Dead having become a community celebration. In fact, the Grand Rapids Public Library for several years has hosted a Dia de los Muertos event (this year Oct. 30 – Nov. 3) that includes alters created by community members and activities.
The Latino Community Coalition’s Nuestra HERencia ofrenda. (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Noting that the Grand Rapids Public Museum is not just about dinosaurs and artifacts but also history and culture, Dustin Tyler, director of marketing and customer service strategy for the Museum, said the Public Museum is excited to be able to partner with local organizations such as the LCC to present a Day of the Dead exhibition.
“Anytime we get the opportunity to include community partners to help paint a story, its a win for Grand Rapids, a win for the museum and a win for our members and visitors,” Tyler said.
The local connection
As part of the exhibition, the GRPM joined with community partners to add ofrendas to the exhibition display. Local professor and artist Margaret Vega created one display honoring her father Francisco Vega (1922-2021), who was a leader in the Latino community of West Michigan and a grassroots organizer for civil rights.
The LCC’s offenda focuses on the organizations Nuestra HERencia project, which honors the history and legacies of women here in Grand Rapids.
“It is an immersive experience,” Tyler said. “it is kind of a window into how another culture does things different but also learning about the history of Mr. Vega and learning about our partners over at the Latin Community Coalition and what their mission and purpose is.”
Started in 2006, the LLC serves as a unifying force for the equitable advancement of Latinos in West Michigan.
“I chose LCC because at the time I was working for the infant health program at Cherry Street Health and so I wanted to learn more about what are the resources out there to help my clients and patients and the LCC was a great opportunity for me to network and learn what programs and classes other nonprofits were offering so I could give back and give those resources to my community,” she said.
Celebrating ‘HER’
The Nuestra HERencia project features women who have not necessarily received awards or been recognized but because of their values that they instilled in their family members, they have helped the Hispanic community grow through business and leadership.
“My aunt, who passed away last year, she owned a small chain of bakeries,” said Javier Cervantes, another LCC member. “She instilled in us hard work and dedication. I saw how she treated everyone with respect. That is what I will not forget.
“Todos parejos — everyone is equal.”
For both Cervantes and Quintino-Aranda, they hope through the exhibition and the LCC display to help residents understand the symbolism and why Day of the Dead is important to the Hispanic community.
“I want people to know that we have a presence here in Grand Rapids and we are not going anywhere,” Cervantes said. “Those Latinos have been able to be trailblazers and in a unique way transform the lives of families as well.”
“A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico” is included with general admission to the Museum and is free for Museum members. Kent County residents do receive a discount and Kent County children 17 and under are free. To reverse tickets, visit grpm.org.
WKTV Contributor Renee Karadsheh contributed to this story.
Quality over quantity might be a theme for this year’s ArtPrize as several of the large institutions are featuring a single artist’s work.
This is the observation we saw as we pulled together the releases of several groups on their ArtPrize entries this year.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
The work of Mark Chatterly is featured at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Grand Rapids Public Museum/Mark Chatterly)
The Grand Rapids Art Museum‘s ArtPRize 2022 contribution is Andrea Dezsö’s “Family and Friends.” The large-scale mural on th eMuseum’s exterior and in the Museum’s lobby is comprised of imaginative creatures created by the artist during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the pandemic, Dezsö conserved materials by cutting leftover scraps of handmade Japanese paper creatures she saw as protector sand companions during the pandemic. In total, she created 117 unique characters, which she has continued to explore over the past few years through woodblock print, wood carving, and now mural installation. The ArtPrize piece by Dezsö will be up through Jan. 14, 2023. The Grand Rapids Art Museum is located at 101 Monroe Center St. NW.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum
This year, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is featuring the work of sculptor Mark Chatterly for its ArtPrize exhibit. Chatterly specializes in large-scale figurative sculptures in ceramic that focus primarily on the figure with a metaphysical theme.
Chatterly’s “The Wall” is located outside of the museum on the north lawn. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is at 272 Pearl St. NW.
John Ball Zoo
The John Ball Zoo is hosting Disc Art, an interactive disc golf course featuring nine scrap metal features. Guests are invited to play the course for free and explore the large-scale art works. Discs will be provided or guests may bring their own.
Artist Stacy Rhines said she had the idea for about fives years and this winter, she actually had enough time to work on the piece. Each of the five goals are metal art sculptures made from repurposed. Rhines said she placed the tee and the goal about 80 feet apart, much less than a normal course, so that everyone could enjoy the activity. The John Ball Zoo is located at 1300 W. Fulton St.
Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
A piece for the upcoming ArtPrize exhibit featuring the work of Mark Mennin. (Supplied)
The work of Mark Mennin will be featured as the Meijer Garden’s ArtPrize 2022. The exhibit, entitled “Embedded,” features three oversized stone beds situation outdoors on the Frey Foundation Plaza leading into the Welcome Center. This trip plays with perception of hard and soft, heavy and light.
Mennin’s ArtPrize piece will be up through Oct. 2. Mennin’s work is also featured in a fall exhibition at the Gardens, entitled Mark Mennen: Written in Stone which runs through Nov. 27. Frederik Meijer Gardens is located at 1000 E. Beltline Ave. NE.
ArtRat
ArtRat, located at 46 S. Division, will be hosting several free events throughout ArtPrize. Upcoming are The Hai-Cuu Experience, which features poet and hip-hop musician Cuu JoSama, from 6 – 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22 and 29. On Friday, Sept. 23, will be a hands-on reception for Dean Hunt’s “evolutionARy,” an ArtPrize entry. The event is from 7 – 9 p.m. Sunday. Sept. 25, will be am music and dance performance from 5 to 6 p.m.
On Sunday, Oct. 2, will be the ArtRat’s ArtPRize wrap party will be from 2 – 5 p.m
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) will be part of the 18th annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day on Saturday, Sept. 17. The initiative invites museums across the United States to open their doors for free to those who download an official Museum Day ticket.
The annual event allows museums, zoos, and cultural centers from all 50 states to emulate the spirit of the Smithsonian Institution’s Washington, D.C.-based facilities, which offer free admission every day. This year’s event is sponsored by The Quaker Oats Company and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Participants must download free Museum Day tickets to receive free general admission to the GRPM. Museum Day tickets are available for download at Smithsonian.com/museumday. Visitors who present a Museum Day ticket will gain free entrance for two at participating venues on Sept. 17 only. One ticket is permitted per email address.
Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day goes beyond getting visitors through museum doors across the country—it acts as a springboard to empower and help advance the hopes and ambitions of the public, particularly school-aged children and those in underrepresented communities. It represents a national commitment to access, equity and inclusion. This year’s theme, The American Experience, shines a spotlight on wonderful arts, culture, sciences, innovation, and history exhibits throughout the nation.
On Saturday, Sept. 17, Museum goers to the GRPM can explore three floors of core exhibits focused on history, science, and culture, along with the GRPM’s newest traveling exhibit, A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico, as part of their admission.
Other Michigan museums that will be participating in the Smithsonian Museum Day are Little Traverse Historical Museum in Petoskey; Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven; Midwest Miniatures Museum in Grand Haven; Plymouth Historical Museum in Plymouth; and Rochester Hills Museum in Van Hoosen Farm in Rochester.
Dr. Cory Redman, Grand Rapids Public Museum’s science curator, works to excavate the mastodon bones. (GRPM)
Kent County road crews got a little surprise as they were working to replace a culvert along the county line on 22 Mile Road: they discovered a femur bone.
Turns out that the bone is part of a mastodon with officials from the Grand Rapids Public Museum and the University of the Michigan contacted to come to the site to excavate. University of Michigan officials confirmed that the bones are mastodon.
There is some speculation that there may be two set of bones. Once the bones have been excavated, they will be processed by the University of Michigan. The bones are scheduled to be returned to the Grand Rapids Public Museum per the landowner’s wishes.
Mastodon versus mammoth
The mastodon is a member of the order Proboscidea, which also includes the mammoths, modern elephants, and a wide variety of extinct elephant-like species that evolved more than 60 million years ago.
The American Mastodon was wide-spread across all of North America from Alaska to central Mexico. It was smaller than the mammoth and they used their teeth to clip and crush twigs. Mammoths grazed on grass. Also, mastodons had straighter tusks and both the body and head of the mastodon is longer and squatter than the woolly mammoth
It is estimated that more 300 mastodon fossils have been found in southern Michigan and in fact, the state’s fossil is a mastodon fossil. In 2016, a UM-lead team unearthed Michigan’s most complete ice age mastodon since the 1940s in Mayville, located in Michigan’s thumb area. The team found 70 percent of the mastodon skeleton.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum has several mastodon fossils in its collection including the most famous local find, “Smitty,” which was 40 percent of a full mastodon skeleton found in 1985 in Grandville. Smitty’s skeletal material has been radiocarbon dated by multiple researchers, yielding dates ranging from 10,920 to 12,160 years ago.
The Museum also has the Moorland Mastodon which was found in 1904 in the Muskegon area and which has been on display for several years at the museum. Dr. Cory Redman, who is the museum’s science curator, has been working on restoring the Moorland Mastodon to a state that would be better for is preservation.
As a side note, the Grand Rapids Public Museum currently has the exhibit “Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs.” For more information about the exhibit, visit grpm.org.
Photo from the Grand Rapids Public Museum Collections
This photo is from the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s digital collections and depicts a carousel, which compared to other photos, is probably one that once stood at Ramona Park (now the Gaslight Village area in East Grand Rapids.) The Ramona Park carousel was owned by the McElwee brothers and installed in 1909 at the park. Interestingly, one of the organs from the carousel, called Big Bertha, is located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort restaurant.
We selected this picture in honor of the restoration of the Grand rapids Public Museum’s 1928 Spillman Carousel. The nearly 100-year-old artifact has been undergoing a major renovation which began in 2017, requiring the Carousel to be dismantled and rebuilt. Starting on Wednesday, May 25, the Spillman Carousel will once again be operating in the Cook Carousel Pavilion located at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. While the carousel will be operational, restoration work will continue on carousel. To follow the restoration process, click here.
Spring Break doesn’t seem like it if you’re stuck in Grand Rapids.
If you’re like me, you’ll make the best of it, despite a few snowflakes.
In my Top 5, which you can find exclusively on WKTV Journal, I include activities for kids, sports fans, craft beer aficionados and theater lovers. Who needs palm trees, the beach and fancy drinks by the pool?
Have a great weekend, friends.
Gonzo’s Top 5
Grand Rapids Gold wraps up its season this weekend. (Supplied)
5. Grand Rapids Sports
The Grand Rapids Griffins and the Grand Rapids Gold both have home games this weekend. The hockey team has games Friday and Saturday (April 1-2) at Van Andel Arena. Special activities include Jeff Hoggan jersey retirement, Margaritaville Night, and beach hat giveaway on Saturday. Also, the team has a home game on April 6. More info at vanandelarena.com. Also, pro basketball team the Grand Rapids Gold wraps up its season withgames Friday and Saturday (April 1-2) at the DetlaPlex Arena. On Friday, fans get $2 beer, $2 hot dogs and $5 Founders Solid Gold. And it’s Real Superheroes on Saturday. One lucky fan at the game will receive a limited edition superhero jersey and an official Wilson game ball. The Children’s Foundation also presents a post-game autograph session with coaches and team members. Team posters to the first 500 fans as well. Ticket info at https://grandrapids.gleague.nba.com/
4. Grand Armory Tap Takeover at Horrocks
Whether it’s a tap takeover or not, it’s always fun to hang out at Horrocks Farm Market to do some shopping, as well as dine on soup, salad, pizza and other great food. In fact, it’s a great destination any day of the week. If you stop by Friday (April 1), craft beer fans can check out Grand Armory from 4-7 p.m. at Horrocks Market Tavern in Kentwood. Some of the beers on tap include Nerd (New England IPA), Lightly Dusted (Crop Duster Light), Blueberry Watermelon (Fruited Blonde), Grapefruit Grindage (Grapefruit IPA) and their famous Fluffer Nutter (Peanut Butter Marshmallow Stout). It’s super tasty and fun. Learn more on the Facebook Event Page.
3.Craig’s Cruisers Spring Break Wristbands
It’s back! The popular unlimited action at Craig’s Cruisers is from April 1-10 with morning (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) or afternoon (4-8 p.m.) sessions at Craig’s Cruisers Family Fun Center in Wyoming. The unlimited attractions include: Indoor & Outdoor Go-Karts, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, Mini-Golf, Bumper Boats, Frog Hopper, Cruiser Coaster and Ninja Course. (Weather permitting on outdoor attractions.) Fans can also experience the Trampoline Park, as well as a pizza buffet. Tickets are $35 per person, plus tax. Waivers are also required. You can order tickets online as well as get more details craigscruisers.com/specials_promotions/spring-break-wristbands/.
“Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs” at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Supplied)
2. Kids activities at museums and zoo
Several of our local cultural institutions offer great activities for families.
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Spring Break Bonanza includesspecial performances and presentations, April 1-10. Details at www.grcm.org/events.
The Washed Ashore Exhibit opens April 1 at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids. The traveling exhibit features 16 large and colorful sculptures throughout the Zoo, all beautifully designed, giant sea life sculptures made entirely of marine debris collected from beaches. More details at jbzoo.org/washedashore.
Spring Break at the Public Museum, April 1-10; includes its newest exhibition, Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs. These are life-size models, casts of rare fossils while interactives bring these ancient animals to life. Also, relax and recline in the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium with shows about the incredible forces of our universe. It’s fun for the whole family. Learn more at www.grpm.org, including how Kent County residents receive reduced admission, including free general admission for Kent County children 17 and under.
“Ain’t Too Proud: The Story of the Temptations” is at the DeVos Performance Hall. (Photo by Mike Murphy)
Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations
I wasn’t too sure what to expect from the national Broadway tour of “Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations,” which has performances through Sunday at DeVos Performance Hall. I knew the songs would be great – because who doesn’t love those classic songs like “My Girl,” “I Can’t Next to You,” “Just My Imagination” and “Papa Was A Rollin’ Stone”? But the storyline has to pull it all together, and that’s exactly what it did. In fact, I wouldn’t mind seeing it again. Asked after the show for my review, I said “Ain’t Too Proud” is “a riveting and compelling behind the scenes story about one of music’s most successful acts, told through the classic songs we know and love. It’s a must-show that features stellar voices and those signature dance moves.” I think that says it all.
In my theater podcast “By All Means, Lead the Way,” I interviewed James T. Lane, who plays Paul Williams, one of the original members of the Temptations. The Philadelphia native tells his own story of how he fell in love with dance and the theater. And why he loves this show so much.
You will, too, he added.
“For 2 ½ hours you will be entertained by some of the most extraordinary artists I have ever had the pleasure to work with in all of my 20-plus years of experience,” Lane said in the interview.
“So come, be dazzled, be delighted; feel all of the emotions of the classic 5, and all of the Temptations. Come and see ‘Ain’t too Proud – Life of the Temptations.’ You will not want to miss this.”
If you want to hear the interview in its entirety, check out my podcast here:
https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49281119
Presented by Broadway Grand Rapids, performances of “Ain’t Too Proud” continue through Sunday (April 3). Ticket information at broadwaygrandrapids.com.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe Spring Break.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s selection comes from Grand Rapids Public Museum educator Amanda Tabata.
Book: Dinosaur Lady Author: Linda Skeers Genre: Biography/Children
This beautifully illustrated book is perfect for inspiring curiosity in learners of all ages. The text is lively, perfect for reading aloud, while packing a scientific punch. Readers will come away with an appreciation for Mary Anning’s inquisitive spirit and rock solid perseverance. Pair up with the Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs exhibit at the GRPM to see one of Mary Anning’s exciting discoveries!
In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has been designated as Reading Month. To celebrate and encourage reading, we are asking local officials, residents and WKTV staff and volunteers to tell us about a book that they enjoy. Happy Reading!
Today’s reading selection comes from Grand Rapids Public Museum’s educator Katie Bilby.
Book: Firekeeper’s Daughter Author: Angeline Boulley Genre: Young Adult Fiction/Mystery/Thriller
Aspiring doctor, Daunis Fontaine is a biracial, unenrolled tribal member on the brink of adulthood. After witnessing a murder, she’s recruited for an undercover investigation into a harmful new drug. Now Daunis must combine her knowledge of modern medicine and traditional practices to save her community and become a strong Anishinaabe kwe (Ojibwe woman).
Set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this thriller directly connects to the GRPM’s Anishinabek: The People of This Place exhibit. As a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, author Angeline Boulley spent ten years researching how illegal drugs have impacted the Ojibwe people. Her self-proclaimed “Indigenous Nancy Drew story” is as educational as it is exhilarating.
Spring is around the corner, and we’re excited for all the cool things happening now.
Whether it’s the Home & Garden Show, a new exhibit at the Public Museum or a festival devoted to Bourbon. All of this, and more, are in my Top 5, exclusively on WKTV Journal.
Here we go.
Gonzo’s Top 5
Comedian Whitney Cummings performs Saturday, March 5 at GLC Live. (Supplied)
5. Comedy Shows
The local comedy scene is really exploding with local, regional and national acts performing throughout West Michigan. That’s great news as we get closer to Laughfest GR, which is March 16-20, and a great opportunity to see a variety of acts. This weekend check out:
Whitney Cummings – comedian, actor, writer, producer, and director – performs at 7 p.m. Saturday (March 5) at GLC Live at 20 Monroe. She is on her “Touch Me Tour.” Opening is Ricky Velez. Tickets start at $35 and on sale now at livenation.com. Learn more about Whitney Cummings in this recent Fox 17 interview.
Golden Age Comedy – Located in the upper room at Creston Brewery, and presented by Full House Comedy, the venue features Maddy Smith at 7 tonight (March 4) and 7 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday (March 5), and Hal Sparks at 9 tonight (March 4). Sparks also performs at 8 p.m. Saturday at Billy’s Lounge in Grand Rapids. More details at fullhousecomedy.com/.
May the force be with the Griffins: Star Wars night is Saturday, March 5. (Supplied)
4. Grand Rapids Griffins
What? You haven’t been to a Griffins game this season? What are you waiting for? The professional hockey team is in action four times over the next week with games March 4, 5, 9 and 11 at Van Andel Arena in downtown Grand Rapids. You can get $2 beers and $2 hot dogs at select stands on Friday and March 11. And it’s Star Wars Night on Saturday (March 5). All games are at 7 p.m. Get tickets and more details at griffinshockey.com.
The 2nd Annual GR Bourbon Fest returns to D2D Event Center. (Supplied)
3. 2nd Annual GR Bourbon Fest
Where are my bourbon lovers? Good news, the second annual Grand Rapids Bourbon Fest is back Saturday (March 5) at the Studio D2D Event Center, located at 401 Hall St SW. You will discover 200-plus whiskeys, with the majority of them being bourbon. There will also be a few non-bourbon options such as beer from New Holland Brewing Co. and wine from 45 North Winery. Designated Drivers get complimentary nitro coffee, kombucha and tea from Reputation Beverage Company. In addition to the beverages, attendees can experience food trucks, live music and more. There are two sessions with Session One from 4-7 p.m. and Session Two from 8-11p.m. Proceeds will benefit Friends of The River. More details at the Facebook Event page.
The dinosaurs take flight at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Supplied)
2. Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs
Are there any dinosaur lovers in your life? This weekend the Grand Rapids Public Museum opens “Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs.” These flying animals ranged from the size of a sparrow to that of a two-seater plane. They are believed to be the first back-boned animals to evolve into powered flight, and the only vertebrates to develop this ability besides birds and bats. The exhibition includes life-size models, videos and interactive exhibits. The exhibit opens Saturday, March 5, with a special members only preview from 9 a.m.-noon.
A sign of spring: the West Michigan Home and Garden Show. (Supplied)
1. West Michigan Home and Garden Show
The recent warm up makes it feel like spring, and that means it’s a perfect time for the 41st annual West Michigan Home and Garden Show at DeVos Place. You can expect 13 feature gardens, five free seminar stages and more than 350 exhibitors featuring a wide variety of products and services. Let’s go! Hours are noon-9:30 p.m. today (March 4), 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $4 for children ages 6-14. Check out more information on seminars and services at GRHomeShow.com.
That’s it for now.
As always, I welcome your input and recommendations for events to include in my Top 5 list. If you have something for me to consider, just send me an email at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Have a great, safe weekend.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum’s (GRPM) Saturday Investigation Classes will be offered to the public during the month of March.
The Saturday Investigation classes will be offered in March. (Supplied)
Visitors ages eight and older are encouraged to sign up for these small-group, hands-on educational classes to investigate science and history. Saturday Investigations transform the Museum into a learning lab, giving the public an exclusive experience through behind-the-scenes exhibit exploration, artifact investigation, engaging activities and more. This experience is great for children and parents or guardians to work together, or for older kids and adults to join.
Classes will take place on Saturdays from March 5 to March 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the Museum. The cost of Saturday Investigations follow the cost of the Museum’s general admission, including free general admission for kids 17 and younger. Classes are limited to 20 registrants per session, registration is required. Once classes conclude, visitors are able to explore the Museum’s three floors of exhibits. For more information on Saturday Investigation Classes and to register today, visit grpm.org/EduClasses.
Class offerings include Fossil Hunters, Travel Back in Time to the Streets of Old Grand Rapids, Sturgeon Excursion and What’s in Your River? Registrants can dig into mysteries of the Earth, indulge in another exciting, augmented reality game that guides participants through the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit, play an exclusive augmented reality game that integrates with Museum exhibits and become environmental scientists while learning about the Grand River.
Holiday break for many schools starts at about 3:30 p.m. Friday with most students being out for around two weeks.
Students have the opportunity to explore the Museum during the Snowflake Break camps. (Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Holiday activities take up some of the time during the two-week break but whether it is waiting for or after all the presents are unwrapped, there is time when everybody is looking for something to do.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum announced that it will bring back its Snowflake Break, which will run from Dec. 18 to Jan. 2. Snowflake Break features special exhibits and activities and includes the traveling exhibits “POPnology,” and “Bats: Masters of the Night,” along with educational Snowflake Break Camp opportunities for area children.
“Snowflake Break at the Museum is the perfect experience for families seeking fun activities to do during the holiday break,” said Kate Kocienski, the Museum’s VP of Marketing & Public Relations. “We’re pleased to offer reduced admission for Kent County residents everyday, including free admission for kids 17 and under. Snowflake Break is an ideal time for local families to take advantage of these benefits to explore, learn and create lifelong holiday memories.”
The three floors at the Museum have holiday-themed decorations and activities. Festival favorites returning include the historic Grand Rapids LEGO® Bricks display, oversized games in the Galleria, and the popular Santa and Elf Hunt that encourages visitors to explore the Museum to find 12 elves hidden in peculiar sports, while also learning about 15 Santas from around the world.
Through Jan. 2, the Chaffee Planetarium will feature “Let It Snow!” with classic holiday music paired a visual show.
A current exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum is “Bats: Masters o the Night.” (Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Snowflake Break Camps are also available for kids in first through sixth grade, with pre-registration required. For two weeks campers will use the Museum as a learning lab – experimenting, learning and growing – all while exploring the permanent and traveling exhibits at the Museum. Camps will be limited to 16 registrants per session, and are $40 per child, with a reduced rate of $30 per child for GRPM members. Campers will be provided with supplies for each activity. Various safety measures will be in place to ensure a low-risk environment for learners and educators. To learn more or to register for Snowflake Break Camps, visit grpm.org/educlasses.
Organist Dave Wickerham will present a night of holiday music on the GRPM’s Mighty Wurlitzer Theater organ on Dec. 17 and 18 with tickets available at grpm.org.
Holiday displays are included with general admission to the Museum. Kent County residents receive reduced admission every day with free admission for Kent County children 17 and under! Kent County adults are only $5 for general admission and Kent County seniors are $3. Advance ticket reservation is recommended, for a seamless, contactless entry. Visit grpm.org to reserve today. Kent County residents also receive free parking in the Museum’s ramp for their visit. The Museum encourages all visitors to wear a face mask, regardless of their vaccination status, to help curb the spread of Covid 19 in our community.
Other activities:
The Grand Rapids Art Museum will be featuring the exhibits “An Art of Changes: Jasper Johns Prints, 1960-2018,” which surveys six decades of output from one of America’s greatest living artists, and “The Black Ash Basketry of Kelly Church and Cherish Parrish,” showcases a centuries-old Anishinaabe tradition.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is featuring the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Express, formerly the Breton Village Miniature Train Display, which includes replicas of South High School, Bill’s Place diner and other significant structures in the president’s Grand Rapids life.
The holiday season is well underway at the Grand Rapids Public Museum with special exhibits and activities for the entire family now on display including historic Grand Rapids built from LEGO® bricks, Santas from around the world, holiday planetarium shows and more.
Returning to the Grand Rapids Museum is the recreation of 1925 era of downtown Grand Rapids in LEGOs. (Photo supplied by Grand Rapids Public Museum)
“The Museum is a great place for families as they get into the holiday spirit this season with special displays and activities that will excite all ages,” said Kate Kocienski, vice president of Marketing & Public Relations at the GRPM. “In addition to annual favorites, including our historic LEGO® display, visitors can peek into the history of traditions through a festive display of Santas from around the globe and decorations found in the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit.”
One of the most popular GRPM exhibits during the season is the LEGO® recreation of 1925 Grand Rapids. The old-time Grand Rapids model features historic buildings built to scale and operating trams. Visitors have the opportunity to search and find different places all while discovering what downtown Grand Rapids use to be like.
The treasure hunting continued with the Santa and Elf Hunt. Riddles will help visitors find 15 historic Santas from around the world in the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit along with learning about the traditions of each culture around Saint Nick. And while some homes have Elf on a Shelf, the GRPM has Elves in the Exhibits. Visitors can also follow clues to find all 12 elves hidden throughout the three floors of the museum. The Santa and Elf Hunt is available in both English and Spanish.
Featured exhibits are “Bats: Masters of the Night” and “POPnology,” featuring iconic replicas of a DeLorean Time Machine, R2D2, E.T. and more. “Bats,” which explores the famous creatures of the night, is part of the Museum admission. “POPnology,” which runs through Jan. 30, may be added on to any Museum visit.
Santa search now taking place at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Photo supplied by the Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Kent County adults are only $5 for general admission and Kent County children 17 and under are free. For pricing and tickets, visit grpm.org.
At the Chaffee Planetarium
Running through Jan. 2 at the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium is the show “Let It Snow,” which features a new variety of festive classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee. Also, if you did not get a chance to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, the “Let It Snow” production includes a multimedia finale by the popular group. Tickets for the Planetarium are $4/with general admission to the Museum, $2 for Museum members, and $5 for planetarium-only tickets.
An added bonus at the Chaffee Planetarium is the installation of a hearing loop system which provides a highly effective way of broadcasting information to visitors for those who are hard of hearing.
The loop systems connect with an individuals’ personal hearing device, utilizing the T-coil system, to receive clear, crisp audio without the need for any other device. Additionally, the Museum will have two loop receivers with headphones for individuals requiring hearing assistance who do not have T-coil equipped hearing devices that will be available upon request.
“The Grand Rapids Public Museum is proud to continue to expand access to the Museum and Planetarium for members of the community who are hard of hearing,” said Dr. Stephanie Ogren, the Museum’s Vice President of Science and Education. “By installing the loop system in the Chaffee Planetarium, the Museum is reducing another barrier to access, continuing to ensure the Museum is as accessible and inclusive to the broadest population.”
The Public Museum’s popular series Concerts Under the Stars returns in January. The series is a fully immersive audio and visual concert experience in the Chaffee Planetarium, highlighting local music and visual artists.
Grand Rapids-based Normal Mode performs on Jan. 13 at the Chaffee Planetarium. (Photo supplied by Grand Rapids Public Museum)
“We’re excited for the return of Concerts Under the Stars at the Chaffee Planetarium,” said GRPM’s Planetarium Manager Jack Daleske. “This year will feature a broad range of musical talent from local musicians in combination with local digital artists for an incredible full-sensory experience unique only to our location.”
This winter, three West Michigan bands will perform their music, enhanced by the unique environment created by the dome and seating of the Chaffee Planetarium. Completing the immersive experience will be area visual artists weaving digital art to the music being performed.
On Jan. 13, Concerts Under the Stars will feature local band Normal Mode, a Grand Rapids-based trio writing lo-fi space travel music. This group of young, but seasoned musicians offer up floating ethereal soundscapes on top of head bopping grooves; perfect for a relaxing exploration.
Local video artist Nate Eizenga will accompany Normal Mode. Eizenga is a Grand Rapids native who moonlights as a video artist, focusing on accompaniment for live musical performances.
Shows will begin at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6 p.m., including access to the Museum’s first two floors of exhibits. Performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer and other beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are $20, with discounted pricing of $16 for GRPM members. Tickets are currently on sale and available at grpm.org.
The 2022 Concerts Under the Stars series will continue on Feb. 10 with a dynamic mix of surf and garage rock sets performed by Hollywood Makeout and will conclude on March 10 and 11 with a unique blend of alternative rock by Lazy Genius.
Several popular summer events have announced that they will return this summer such as Grand Rapids’ Festival of the Arts. Saugatuck Center for the Arts’ Mason Street Warehouse also has announced it summer season.
But first, we start with an event in March.
“Bee” in “Sean Kenney’s Wild Connections Made with LEGOs” at the Grand Rapids Public Museum through May 2. (Supplied)
Grand Rapids Public Museum
Artist Sean Kenney of the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s current exhibit “Sean Kenney’s Wild Connections Made with LEGO Bricks” will be the guest speaker during a March 14GRPM Facebook live presentation.
The 1 p.m. event will feature Kenney sharing his experience as a professional artist working with LEGO bricks, a behind-the-scenes tour of his studio space and will conclude with Kenny answering questions submitted by viewers in real time.
“I look forward to meeting with members of the GRPM community, and sharing my thoughts on the process of how we bring these sculptures to life,” Kenney said.
“Wild Connections,” featuring several LEGO sculptures created by Kenney, will run through May 2.
The 2021Festival of the Arts will feature Plein Air performances June 4 – 6. (Supplied)
Festival of the Arts
In February, Festival of the Arts announced it would return this June with a different format.
Plein Air will take place June 4 – 6 and will feature artists creating landscape portraits as well as musicians performing throughout the city. Participants are encouraged to pick up their favorite food item from one of the many area restaurants and then come to one of the social zones featuring an artist. The regional art show will be virtual.
In the fall, Festival of the Arts will partner with ArtPrize to host a stage at Calder along with the Festival’s artisan market, featuring local artists and their works. The fall event will take place Sept. 17 – 19.
Saugatuck Center for the Arts announces its summer season. (Supplied)
Saugatuck Center for the Arts
Saugatuck Center for the Arts announced there will be live theater this summer at Mason Street Warehouse.
“Last summer’s outdoor concerts and films were a fantastic dress rehearsal for this summer,” said SCA Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “So we converted our parking lot into a flexible, multi-purpose plaza. We’re now able to host theatre, concerts, markets, classes, special events — and still park on it when needed. Guest will have a fresher, much lovelier experience in the reimagined space.”
Stamm noted that the outdoor plaza stage is smaller than the indoor theater stage. This year guests will see original sets, unique lighting design, and bold costumes during all of the shows. Live musicians will accompany the musical productions.
Three productions will be staged at the renovated outdoor plaza with participants encouraged to bring their own chairs. The season starts June 30 with “Shout! The Mod Musical.” “Dixie’s Tupperware Party” is in July and “Just Too Big! Songs from Broadway Blockbusters” is in August. There will be two Cabaret-series shows, “The Big Red Show!” Sept. 4 and The Best Bad Idea Sept. 16.
I know for sure that what we dwell on is what we become.
Oprah Winfrey
Attend Woodland Mall’s Black-Owned Business Showcase
This weekend Woodland Mall will be hosting its first Black-Owned Business Showcase. At this event, shoppers will have the opportunity to visit booths run by local black-owned businesses. There will be more than forty vendors selling everything from cosmetics to home goods. The event will be held Friday, Oct. 23, and again on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The showcase will be held at Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE. For more information and a list of vendors, visit www.shopwoodlandmall.com/calendar.
Chaffee Planetarium (Supplied by Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Visit the Chaffee Planetarium
The Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Chaffee Planetarium is now open. The planetarium is featuring a new show designed by a West Michigan native. Incoming! was made in partnership with NASA scientist Brent Bos, who is currently studying asteroids and grew up in West Michigan. The program focuses on asteroids, comets, and meteors. The planetarium also is showing One World, One Sky, which stars Elmo, Big Bird, and their friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu. Together the group learns about the moon, stars, sun, and the Big dipper. The planetarium has a limited capacity and it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets cost $2 for members and $4 for the general public and are available for purchase at grpm.org/planetarium.
Explore the Hackley House through a Flashlight Tour this fall season. (Supplied)
Explore Muskegon’s oldest buildings by flashlight
This weekend the Hackley & Hume Historic site at Musekgon’s Lakeshore Museum Center will host the daring and spooktacular Flashlight Tours. During the tours, guests will be guided through the Hackley House as they learn the spooky history and odd stories surrounding the home while using their flashlights to illuminate objects. The event will be held on Oct. 23 – 24 with two seasons 7 – 8 p.m. and 8:30 – 9:30 p.m. The Hackley & Hume Historic Site is located at 484 W Webster Ave, Muskegon. Tickets are selling quickly and it is recommended to reserve early. Tickets are $15 and guests can reserve a space by calling Assistant Program Manager Aaron Mace at 231-724-5534 or by emailing aaron@lakeshoremuseum.org.
Fun Fact: The creepy origin of jack-o’-lanterns
Have you ever wondered why it is a tradition to carve pumpkins for Halloween? The tradition started in Ireland during the 8th Century and was based off the myth of Stingy Jack. The story goes that Jack tricked the devil and when he died he wasn’t allowed into heaven or hell. He was forced to roam earth for eternity. The Irish would carve faces in turnips in hopes of warning off Jack’s evil spirit. When the Irish immigrated to America, they began to carve pumpkins instead.
The Red Glasses Movement at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (WKTV)
Have you noticed the large pair of red glasses in the window of the Grand Rapids Public Museum? They are part of the Red Glasses Movement which is in honor of 5-year-old Audrey Janderno, who passed away in January of 2018. Audrey was born with Down Syndrome and a congenital heart defect however, she never let these define her. She was known for her contagious smile and her bright red glasses. This fall the Grand Rapids Public Museum has teamed up with The Red Glasses Movement in celebration with Sean Kenney’s Wild Connections made with LEGO® Bricks which opens Nov. 7. In partnership with The Red Glasses Movement, the museum has designed a scavenger hunt to find red glasses through out the museum. The scavenger hunt begins on Nov. 7. Photo is by Anna Johns.
If you have a photo you would like considered for Photo of the Week, please send it to WKTV Journal Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma at joanne@wktv.org.
The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium (Grand Rapids Public Museum)
The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, located at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, has officially reopened and is offering a new show designed by a West Michigan native.
“We have been working on a new show experience for our visitors, and look forward to sharing it with our audiences. Incoming! at the Chaffee Planetarium was developed in partnership with a NASA scientist, and created for learners at all levels across the learning spectrum,” said Dr. Stephanie Ogren, the Museum’s vice president of science and education.
One of the new shows is Incoming!, which was made in partnership with NASA scientist Brent Bos, who is currently studying asteroids and grew up in West Michigan. The show will explore asteroids, comets, and meteors. California Academy of Sciences developed the visuals for the show using real time date from current NASA missions. Outside of the planetarium there is a set of interactive experiences. These include a lunar crater station, meteors under a microscope and a meteor pinball machine.
“Creating interactive experiences that tie directly into planetarium show content allows visitors to dive deeper into what interests them about space,” said Jack Daleske, the Museum’s planetarium manager. “Being able to see real meteorites from the GRPM Collections after watching Incoming! allows visitors to better understand what they learned in that show.
The planetarium also will be showing One World, One Sky which follows Big Bird and Elmo from Sesame Street and their friend from China Hu Hu Zhu. Together they blast off on an imaginary trip to outer space where they learn about the moon, stars, sun, and the Big dipper.
The shows have a limited compacity and it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets cost $2 for members and $4 for the general public. Purchase tickets in advance at grpm.org/planetarium. School groups may reserve their visit at grpm.org/schools. The Chaffee Planetarium will host multiple shows per week with enough time in between for a thorough cleaning.
Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall
American Author F. Scott Fitzgerald
Learn about the world of honey bees
This weekend take the opportunity to explore the Amazing Honey Bees exhibit at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E. Beltline Ave. This family event gives guests a look inside the amazing world of honey bees. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about beekeeping by viewing an observation hive. The event is free with the price of admission. The exhibit is open Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information you can visit their website.
Catch a movie at the park
Grab your friends and head down to Martin Luther King Park, 900 Fuller Ave. SE, and catch a movie at the Holistic Healing event. The event starts at 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26. There will be fun, vendors, and music. At 8:30 p.m. there will be a screening of “Black Panther” to pay homage to the late Chadwick Boseman. Single tickets are priced at $6 for one plot, $11 for two, and $22 for four. You can purchase tickets here.
Under the Arctic (Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Take a trip to the Arctic
Pay a visit to the Grand Rapids Public Museums newest exhibit “Under the Arctic,” which opens Saturday, Sept. 26. Visitors will have the chance to act as climate science researchers and explore the Arctic. The exhibit features Ice Age fossils, a 30-foot-long Alaskan permafrost tunnel replica, and ancient ice cores. The exhibit is at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St. NW. Admission to this exhibit is included in general admission. For more information you can visit their website.
Hand rolling cotton candy in candy floss machine
Fun Fact:
A dentist invented cotton candy
Did you know that a dentist invented cotton candy? In 1897 dentist William Morrison partnered with candy-maker John C. Wharton and together they invented the sweet treat. The candy was originally called fairy floss and premiered at the World Fair in 1908 where it was sold for only 25 cents.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today the official launch of its Keeping it Curious blog. Online visitors of all ages can enjoy written content and vlogs with behind-the-scenes stories, in-depth looks at pieces from the GRPM’s Collection, theories behind the design of the Museum’s educational programming and more.
“We’re excited to share a more in-depth perspective of the Museum with the community,” said Kate Kocienski, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations. “We hope to pique the interest of all ages, while further connecting them to the unique stories of Grand Rapids and beyond.”
The Keeping it Curious blog will include content written by the GRPM staff as well as guest bloggers. Readers can access the blog online at grpm.org/blog.
The GRPM is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 and the current State of Michigan executive orders. In addition to the Keeping it Curious blog, the Museum has a variety of fun, educational resources available online for free, at grpm.org/HomeMuseum. All ages can engage with Virtual Discovery Kits and online Collections Scavenger Hunts, as well as explore and curate their own digital exhibits on the Museum’s Collections database (grpmcollections.org), enjoy at-home experiments from the Museum’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/GRMuseum), coloring pages of artifacts, as well as tuning into see the Museum’s two live Lake Sturgeon! For more information visit grpm.org.
Grand Rapids Public Museum donated masks and other personal protective equipment to Spectrum Health this week. (Supplied)
Sharing the Supplies
The Grand Rapids Public Museum was one of the first to donate its extra personal protective equipment and throughout the week there have been numerous reports of people sewing face masks and donating PPE supplies. Both Metro Health and Spectrum Health have set up donation areas. For a list of those areas and items being collected, click here.
The Mastodon skeleton at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (GRPM)
State Fossil: Mastodon Skeletons
Bet you didn’t know that Michigan has a state fossil. One of the most complete mastodon skeletons is showcased at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Below, Grand Rapids Public Museum Science Curator Dr. Cory Redman discusses the preservation of the Moorland Mastodon found in Ravanna, Mich. For more mastodon-related items, visit the grpmcollections.org.
They were just swimming along, enjoying the comforts of their home when suddenly a large black hose was dunked in and began sucking water out and vacuuming the rocks.
But the two 10-month-old Lake Sturgeon need not panic, it was only a Grand Rapids Public Museum staff person cleaning their tank.
The Lake Sturgeon are the stars of a new reality show featured on the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s website, grpm.org/live-stream. Due to the governor’s stay-at home order, visitors can not see the Lake Sturgeon in-person, so the museum officials decided to feature the fish in a live stream.
“The Museum is committed to continuing to deliver content digitally to the community during our closure,” said Kate Kocineski, the Museum’s Vice-President of Marketing and Public Relations. “We want to continue to entertain, educate and spark curiosity within our virtual visitors while many are safely in their homes during this time.”
The Public Museum is not the only venue to take to social media with virtual tours, the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, the Grand Rapids Art Museum, and the John Ball Zoo all have had videos featuring staff discussing specific items or exhibits at each of its facilities.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Classroom Activities and Education Technology Coordinator Carlie Fournier talks about the transformation from a chrysalis to butterfly. (Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Facebook page)
Frederick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is offering daily virtual visits at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Meijer Gardens Public Relations Manager John VanderHaagen said with the governor’s executive stay-at home order, it has limited staff availability, but the virtual tours will continue.
“We will still be bringing content to our followers, but we’re going to have to change our tactics,” VanderHaagen said. In fact, today, Senior Horticulture Manager Wendy Overbeck was going to describe the different types of butterflies in the “Fred and Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming” exhibition on the Meijer Gardens’ Facebook page. Also on the Meijer Gardens’ Facebook page, there is a live feed of the chrysalis area where visitors can watch the butterflies emerge as well as past videos that include staff reading children’s books and discussing other interesting facts about butterflies.
From the John Ball Zoo Facebook Page.
John Ball Zoo
The John Ball Zoo staff also has taken to Facebook to feature visits with the animals and an insightful interview with the Zoo’s veterinarian Dr. Ryan Colburn answering questions about how the coronavirus is impacting the animals.
GRAM Director and CEO Dana Friis-Hansen
Grand Rapids Art Museum
On the GRAM’s Facebook page, both GRAM Director and CEO Dana Friis-Hansen and Chief Curator Ron Platt have videos discussing current exhibits at the Art Museum.
GRAM Communications Manager Elizabeth Payne said the museum offerings do extend beyond Facebook to a number of digital resources at its website artmuseumgr.org.
“We’re offering everything from artist interviews to digital publications and resources for kids,” Payne said. “We’ll also be adding to this in the days to come as we produce more content.”
Like the GRAM, many institutions have been providing digital or online resources long before the coronavirus came along. The Public Museum’s Collection of more than 250,000 artifacts and specimens can be explored at grpmcollections.org and residents can create their own login for the website and begin to curate their own collections and digital exhibits.
“Our goal is to encourage the community to keep their minds active by exploring the GRPM’s vast Collections database,” said GRAM Chief Curator Alex Forist. “There’s something new to discover with each click whether you’re interested in furniture made in Grand Rapid, fashion from the turn of the century or rocks and mineral from right here in Michigan.”
Also the Public Museum does provided Virtual Discovery Kits to help keep students engaged. Currently there is an Egypt: Be Curious Virtual Discovery Kit, where students may explore the GRPM’s digital Collections for Egyptian afterlife. Visit grpm.org/HomeMuseum for more information.
A National Movement
Again, virtual content is nothing new. Just like the GRAM and the Public Museum, larger institutions have been providing virtual content for years. There probably is more now as many U.S. states and other countries are dealing with stay-at home orders. A Google search offers a variety of options including an extensive list of national virtual tours at npr.org.
The Lake Sturgeon at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Picture from GRPM’s live stream.)
Keep Checking Back
There is always new content and the various institutions are working on other virtual opportunities as well. And the online offerings are not just about providing activities to keep children, families and anyone busy, but it is also about making connections.
“It is important to us to continue to connecting with the community and fostering a sense of curiosity and joyful learning during this time,” said GRPM Director of Education Erin Karen.
Also, virtual tours and live streaming are available anytime day or night…well except for the Lake Sturgeon. The lights go out at night, because, after all, stars do need their beauty sleep.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum donated gloves, face shields, Tyvek suits and personal respiratory mask to Spectrum Health. (Supplied)
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma joanne@wktv.org
Hearing of the need its “neighbor” was having, the Grand Rapids Public Museum decided to lend a helping hand by donating its extra gloves, face shields, Tyvek suits and personal respiratory masks to Spectrum Health.
The personal protective equipment were supplies that the museum had for everyday work and emergencies. The Grand Rapids Public Museum closed more than a week ago when the governor announced restrictions on gatherings of people.
“The Grand Rapids Public Museum saw a need within our community for personal protective equipment supplies for our healthcare workers on the front lines of this pandemic,” said Kate Kocienski, the Museum’s VP of Marketing. “We keep supplies on hand for everyday work with our Collections and for emergencies. Earlier this week our team gathered those supplies and donated them to Spectrum Health.
“We are proud to be able to help in the community where needed so we can continue to flatten the curve.”
In fact, the outpouring of community inquires and offers of support has both Metro Health – University of Metro Health and Spectrum Health accepting donations of personal protective equipment. Each facility has set up donation sites.
It should be noted that traveling to drop-off sites to donate medical supplies does not violate Michigan’s statewide stay-at-home order, which allows for an exception to the order for providing necessities to “individuals who need assistance as a result of this emergency.”
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health is accepting donations from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Items are to be brought to Metro Health’s System Services and Learning Center, 1980 Metro Court, Wyoming. People should enter using the door on the south side of the building, facing M-6.
Disposal gloves are in demand at local hospitals. The Grand Rapids Public Museum donated these gloves to Spectrum Health. (Supplied)
Items being accepted include:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
N95 Masks
Isolation masks – children and adult
Face shields
Safety glasses
Goggles
Isolation gowns
Gloves – all sizes
Bouffant caps
Non-Personal Protective Equipment
Bleach wipes
Cards for caregivers
Spectrum Health
Starting today at noon, Spectrum Health will be accepting PPE supplies at 14 different locations such as:
Spectrum Health South Pavilion, 80 68th St. SE, Culterville
Spectrum Health Medical Group Family Medicine, 3152 Port Sheldon St., Suite C, Hudsonville
Spectrum Health Integrated Care Campus – East Beltline, 2750 E. Beltilne Ave. NE, Grand Rapids
Spectrum Health Medical Group Lake Drive, 4100 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids
Spectrum Health Integrated Care Campus – Holland, 588 E. Lakewood Blvd., Holland
Spectrum Health Integrated Care Campus – Rockford, 8501 Meadow Creek Dr., Rockford
There are also locations in Ludington, Muskegon, Ionia, Hastings, Greenville, Grand Haven, Fremont, and Big Rapids. For the complete list, click here. Most locations are open from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.Monday – Friday except for Spectrum Health Medical Group Lake Drive, which is open from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday – Friday.
According to hospital officials, Spectrum Health continues to maintain a supply of masks and other personal protection equipment for its patients and health care providers. Officials said they are working to stretch its supply and is turning to the community because officials do anticipate the need will continue to grow.
The following items are accepted at the donation sites:
N95 Masks
Isolation masks (adult/child)
Masks with face shield/visor
Handmade or sewn reusable masks
Face shields
Googles/safety glasses
Bouffant caps
Extended extra protection gloves – all sizes
Isolation gowns
Bleach wipesSwabs (flexible min-tip
Pocket-sized sanitizer
Thermometers (digital, disposable, temporal)
To reduce the risk of exposure for all, Spectrum officials are asking donors to place donations in the bins provided at each location while maintaining a distance of at least six feet from others.
Spectrum Health is not currently accepting donations of 3D printed items, other medical equipment, medications or blankets.
If the donation is large and requires special arrangements or if you have a question, email Spectrum Health’s supply chain team at covid19supplies@spectrumhealth.org. Spectrum Health is also accepting monetary donations to its COVID-19 Response Fund.
In response to the COVID-19 — more commonly called the coronavirus — several organizations today have announced closures. Remember, if you have an event you are planning to attend, double check by calling or visit the event’s website to confirm the event will be taking place.
The Kent District Library (KDL) Kentwood Branch Library. (WKTV)
Kent District Library
In a statement released today, KDL officials said that in the interest of mitigating the impact of the virus, all branches are closed to the public. Programs, outreach visits, bookmobile visits, and book sales are cancelled. KDL is planning to reopen all its branches when schools are scheduled to reopen on April 6.
The staff is explored alternative ways to continue providing service. For updates, visit the KDL.org/coronavrius and the KDL social media pages. The library does provides many digital services such as:
Magazines, databases and other online resources at kdl.org/research
Online reading clubs: download the Beanstack application for your smartphones (search for “Beanstack” in your online app store).
For assistance or more information visit kdl.org or call 616-784-2007.
Grand Rapids Public Library
The Grand Rapids Public Library also has closed until further notice. For updates on the Grand Rapids Public Museum, visit grpl.org.
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
The plan was for Grand Rapids Civic Theatre to continue performances but this morning the organization announced it was suspending the rest of the run of “Matilda: The Musical.”
Civic will be offering all patrons who have purchased tickets a voucher for a future show. Officials are asking that patrons not call the box office at this time. All tickets have been recorded and staff will be contacting patrons individually to assist with rain checks. Patrons also will be given the opportunity to donate the cost of their ticket back to the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre to help offset the company’s lost from the show. For pressing concerns about Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, call 616-222-6650.
Postponed: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Broadway Grand Rapids
Broadway Grand Rapids announced to patrons that due to the governor’s order to cancel or postpone gatherings of 250 persons or more, the organization has postpone the rest of the run for “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Patrons with tickets should hang on to those tickets as the BGR is hoping to bring the show back.
Performances of “Ecsape of Margaritaville,” which are May 26-31, are expected to go on as scheduled.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is closed until further notice. (Supplied)
Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum has closed until further notice. Private events scheduled at the Pubic Museum that are under the 250 persons (guests and staff) threshold will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Earlier this week, the Museum had announced that its Free Day set for March 15 had been postponed.
While there has been no confirmed coronavirus cases connected to the Museum, officials have announced that staff been performing rigorous cleaning routines and there are plans to announce next steps soon.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has closed temporarily. Classes will continue unless otherwise notified. However, anyone signed up for a class through April 12, 2020 may request a full refund. Private events happening at Meijer Gardens during this time will take place if guests and staff are under the 100-person threshold. Event hosts will be contacted by their event coordinator.
Yesterday, the Grand Rapids Symphony announced it has cancelled all performances for the next 30 days, until April 10.
Ticket inquiries and requests will be answered by phone on a limited basis. Tickets for cancelled concerts maybe exchanged for upcoming concerts later this season or for the 2020-2021 season. Exchanges may be mailed to:
Ticket Exchange
Grand Rapids Symphony
300 Ottawa Ave NW, Suite 100
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
LowellArts
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak and in support of the Governor’s and CDC’s request the LowellArts has decided to cancel/postpone any live events for the next 30 days (including tonight’s LaughFest event). The gallery will remain open with officials stating their plans for future events subject to the conditions at that time. For more information, visit lowellartsmi.org.
With the governor’s announcement or restricting events of more than 100 people, many of the local entertainment organizations are working through plans or making announcements that activities are cancelled.
Bottomline: call before you head out to attend any activity.
Grand Rapids Symphony
Grand Rapids Symphony made the announcement today that following the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, effective Friday, March 13, the organization would be cancelling all concerts including the 10 a.m. Coffee Classics concert and the 8 p.m. Great Eras concert at St. Cecilia Music Center.
Effective Monday, March 16, Grand Rapids Symphony staff will be working remotely, and the office will be physically closed through Friday, April 10. Ticket inquiries and requests will be answered by phone on a limited basis. Tickets for cancelled concerts maybe exchanged for upcoming concerts later this season or for the 2020-2021 season. Exchanges may be mailed to:
Ticket Exchange
Grand Rapids Symphony
300 Ottawa Ave NW, Suite 100
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
All requests will be handled in the order received. Patrons may also call 616-454-9451. To purchase tickets for concerts after April 11, please purchase online at www.GRSymphony.org.
Public Museum Free Day
The Grand Rapids Public Museum has announced that it will postpone the Free Day scheduled for Sunday, March 15 for the safety and health of visitors, staff, volunteers and the community. The event will be rescheduled at a later date. Visit grpm.org to stay up to date with the latest event information.
The Museum will operate as normal with regular admission fees and hours; other events remain open as scheduled.
Golden Gloves
The West Michigan Golden Gloves Championships set to kick off this Saturday, March 14, at the DeltaPlex Arena has been postponed. The five-event series delay is resulting from the National Tournament postponement and will be rescheduled, according to a statement from organizers.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today that in partnership with Kent County Farm Bureau, they will be offering a Museum Free Day for the third year in a row. On March 15, 2020, the GRPM will open their doors free of charge for visitors to explore the Museum’s three floors of core exhibits.
“We’re thrilled to offer a Free Day at the Museum to the community for yet another year,” said Kate Kocienski, VP of Marketing and PR for the GRPM. “We truly appreciate our partnership with the Kent County Farm Bureau because it continues to give the gift of curiosity for visitors of all to explore science, history and culture at the Museum without the barrier of an admission fee.”
The Free Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 15. Kent County Farm Bureau will have additional agriculture themed hands-on activities available as part of the day. Visitors can participate in an apple taste test and vote on their favorite apple variety, as well as learn how to milk a cow by interacting with “Casey the Cow” a life-size cow figure. Educational handouts of My Food Plate will be distributed as well as free apples, and other snacks on a first come, first serve basis. For additional information or to reserve your free ticket, please visit grpm.org, click the purchase tickets link and select March 15 for date of visit to receive free admission.
“Kent County Farm Bureau looks forward to once again partnering with the Grand Rapids Public Museum to welcome friends into the Museum free of charge,” said Bill Seif, Kent County Farm Bureau President. “On behalf of more than 1,200 Kent County farmers, we are delighted to work with the GRPM to continue inviting the community to learn more about our agriculture and food production through this experience.”
The GRPM is a place of never-ending inspiration and discovery, featuring three floors of hands-on fun and educational exhibits for visitors of all ages to explore. Visitor favorites include the Streets of Old Grand Rapids, an immersive exhibit that transports visitors back to 19th century of downtown Grand Rapids, and West Michigan Habitats, an exhibit that showcases the vast wildlife found in West Michigan.
Take a trip down memory lane in the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s “TOYS!” exhibit.
Special exhibits TOYS! and Design Zone will be included free of charge for visitors to enjoy on the Museum’s Free Day. TOYS! is an interactive, multi-generational exhibition of toys and games that rekindle childhood memories and spark the creation of new ones. In Design Zone, visitors explore a variety of concepts to learn the processes and tools needed to create a successful design by engaging with interactive games and activities.
Additional experiences for visitors include the special traveling exhibit Bodies Revealed and planetarium shows that are available for an additional charge.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at 272 Pearl St. SW. For more information, visit grpm.org.
Prepare for a fully immersive experience as the Concerts Under the Stars series at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) concludes with a dynamic rock and roll concert, performed by Lazy Genius on Thursday, March 19. Sit back and experience the wonders of the cosmos alongside mesmerizing music.
Lazy Genius has been a staple band in the West Michigan music scene for over 10 years. The group’s rock and roll music embodies a catchy, but unique sound with epic an structure and broad range of dynamics. The band’s lineup consists of five talented musicians including Patrick Wieland, vocals and guitar; Dan Wier, drums and vocals; Adam Cavanaugh, bass guitar; Kristi Prindle, vocals and percussion and John Harrell, keyboards and synth. The group has released three full-length albums, including their latest release, the atmospheric New Moon (2018) and an EP. Lazy Genius is currently working on their next full-length album.
Lazy Genius’s performance will be accompanied by a live light show on the Chaffee Planetarium dome by visual artist Eliza Fernand. Eliza is an artist and educator who works in fabric, video, role play, clay, sound-making and home repairs. After studying sculpture, video and performance, Eliza has led a cross-country career attending over a dozen artist residencies. Eliza works as a teaching artist at Cook Arts Center and West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology, and is currently earning an MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts at Sierra Nevada University.
Concerts Under the Stars begins at 7:30 p.m., with Museum doors opening at 6:30 p.m. At each concert, performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer and other beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are $17, with reduced pricing of $12 for GRPM members. Tickets are available at grpm.org/planetarium, by calling 616.929.1700 or at the Museum’s front desk.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today that it is partnering with LaughFest, City Built Brewing Company and Blue Bridge Games to bring the popular Game Night back to the Museum on Friday, March 13 – with a LaughFest Twist. LaughFest Game Night will feature two special comedy showcases at 7 and 9 p.m., held in the GRPM’s Meijer Theater. Ticket price includes entry to one of the comedy shows.
LaughFest Game Night visitors will have exclusive access to the Museum to play games at their leisure, enjoy a craft beer or wine, participate in tournaments, explore the GRPM’s TOYS! exhibit and ride the 1928 Spillman Carousel. Gather your close friends and spend an evening playing games for fun, while experiencing local comedic talent.
“LaughFest was designed 10 years ago to be a community event that celebrates laughter in all its forms,” said Wendy Wigger, President of Gilda’s Club and Gilda’s LaughFest. “LaughFest Game Night at the Grand Rapids Public Museum is a perfect example of how the community and Gilda’s Club can come together to engage West Michigan during LaughFest, share laughter with others, all while having a seriously good time.”
Award winning board games, card games as well as oversized lawn games and interactives from the TOYS! exhibit, including 1980s quarter operated arcade, will be available for visitors to play throughout the evening. As part of leisure game play, Blue Bridge Games will be featuring Game of the Year winning board games and will be available to teach visitors how to play. These include Letter Jam, Wingspan, Medium, Codenames, Forbidden Island and Camel Up. City Built will also provide games from their weekly Game Night including Klask, Dagz, Katon and Bags (cornhole).
A tournament of Euchre will add friendly competition to the evening. Prizes will be awarded to the top two teams in the tournament, and are donated by the Museum, City Built Brewing Company and Blue Bridge Games. Registration for tournaments will be open from 6 to 9 p.m., with games kicking off at 7 p.m. No experience is necessary to participate.
LaughFest Game Night begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 13. The event is open to visitors ages 21 and older. Cash bars will be available serving City Built Brewing Company beers. Tickets are $15 for Museum members and $20 for the general public and can be purchased at grpm.org, by calling 616-929-1700 or on the LaughFest website at laughfestgr.org/event/laughfest-game-night/.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today that a new display will open on Saturday, Feb. 29 highlighting its newly acquired collection of toys that move. This display, located just outside the popular TOYS! special exhibition, features the magic of motion in toys.
From the ancient Chinese and Greek automatons to the clockwork marvels of the Renaissance, inventors have always searched for ways to make their creations change and move. In modern times, many German and Japanese companies specialized in making a huge variety of affordable wind-up toys. In the twentieth century, the American firm Fisher-Price became well known for its high quality wooden, and eventually plastic, pull toys, many of which are seen in this new display.
The toys featured in this collection are new to the GRPM’s permanent Collection that contains over 250,000 artifacts and specimens.They come from collector Beth Schwartz, who began toy collecting in the early 1990s when she was traveling the country as an actress/singer working in touring Broadway shows. She loved searching out new pieces for her collection, especially Fisher-Price pull toys and antique wind-ups.
1960s Roly Poly Chime Ball (Supplied)
“We are so grateful to the family of Beth Schwartz for donating her amazing toy collection to the Museum. Although Beth passed away in 2011, her collection will continue to delight and inspire children of all ages who visit,” said Alex Forist, the GRPM’s Chief Curator.
‘Toys that Move’ is on display on the second floor of the Grand Rapids Public Museum, and will be part of the general admission experience. The exhibit is presented in both English and Spanish.
