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Viennese connection: St. Cecilia’s chamber music concerts begin with CMS of Lincoln Center’s power couple

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The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s artistic directors cellist David Finckel (right) and pianist Wu Han, as well as violinist Arnaud Sussmann and violist Paul Neubauer, will be on stage at the St. Cecilia Music Center. (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

As if it were not enough of an attraction to have the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s musicians return to St. Cecilia Music Center as the center begins its chamber music series mid-November, inbound from New York to the Royce Auditorium stage is chamber music’s power couple.

In the first of three 2021-22 concerts during their 10th anniversary of partnership with St. Cecilia, CMS of Lincoln Center’s artistic directors cellist David Finckel and pianist Wu Han, as well as violinist Arnaud Sussmann and violist Paul Neubauer, will present a program titled “From Prague to Vienna” on Thursday, Nov. 18.

The program includes selections from the works of Brahms, Dvořák, and Suk. Future programs in the series include “Romantic Perspectives” on Jan. 27, 2022; and “The Jazz Effect” on March 31.

Tickets are available and can be purchased online at scmc-online.org or by calling St. Cecilia at 616-459-2224.

 

The last time CMS performed for a live audience at St. Cecilia was early 2020, and Cathy Holbrook, SCMC executive & artistic director, could not be happier — for the performers, the music center, and its audience.

 

“We are thrilled and thankful to be celebrating our 10th Anniversary with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center,” Holbrook said in supplied material. “We are also thrilled to welcome back our loyal supporters and music lovers in person to experience this exquisite evening with these outstanding musicians.”

As for the “outstanding musicians” — an understatement , perhaps — pianist Wu Han, recipient of Musical America’s Musician of the Year Award, the highest honor bestowed by the organization, enjoys a multi-faceted musical life that encompasses performing, recording, and artistic direction at across the nation. Married to cellist Finckel since 1985, Wu Han divides her time between concert touring and residences in New York City and Westchester County.

Finckel, in addition to his work with CMS, cellist of the Emerson String Quartet for 34 seasons, and has performed and recorded chamber music that includes virtually the complete string quartets of Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, Mendelssohn, Dvorák, Brahms, Bartók, and Shostakovich. He teaches cello and chamber music at both the Juilliard School and Stony Brook University.

Violinist Sussmann is the winner of a 2009 Avery Fisher Career Grant, and has distinguished himself with his unique sound, bravura, and profound musicianship. Minnesota’s Pioneer Press writes, “Sussmann has an old-school sound reminiscent of what you’ll hear on vintage recordings by Jascha Heifetz or Fritz Kreisler, a rare combination of sweet and smooth that can hypnotize a listener.”

Violist Neubauer has gained widespread praise, including the New York Times calling him “a master musician.” In 2018, he made his Chicago Symphony subscription debut with conductor Riccardo Muti and his Mariinsky Orchestra debut with conductor Valery Gergiev. He, too, is on the faculty of The Juilliard School, and Mannes College as well as a visiting professor at DePaul University.

Special pandemic policy

SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert.

In areas with substantial and high transmission, the CDC recommends that everyone (including fully vaccinated individuals) wear a mask in public indoor settings to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially the Delta variant, and to protect others. To that end, SCMC is requiring that all attendees wear a mask while in the building. They will continue to monitor the COVID environment and may change policies at any time if necessary.

If you have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.

For more information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit SCMC-online.org.

Early holiday shoppers have handcrafted items, unique gifts awaiting at local craft and vendor events

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The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters will host their annual craft show on Nov. 13 at Byron Center High School. (Supplied, from previous year)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@WKTV.org

With Halloween now past, many see the holiday season upon us, and local vendors and crafters are gearing up to help holiday shoppers with their early shopping needs.

After widespread and disappointing cancellations in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, West Michigan crafters and vendors are excited to announce that they are bringing back their holiday craft shows this fall. And the month of November is filled with must-shop events that not only deliver handcrafted items, tasty treats, and unique gift ideas for local communities, but provide funds and support for many area school programs.

The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters (BCFAB) are especially thankful to be able to host their annual craft show on Nov. 13 at Byron Center High School, as it is the largest fundraiser for their school’s fine arts programs. (For a extensive list of local craft and vendor fairs, see bottom of story.)

“All funds raised will go directly to support our students in the school district,” Kim Kohlhoff, president of Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters, said to WKTV.

All Byron Center public school fine arts programs, grades K-12, are impacted by the success of this fundraiser, Kohlhoff said, and the craft show fundraiser supplements the general budget given to each school to fund the main requirements of the fine arts programs.

The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School supports the schools fine arts programs including the jazz band. (Supplied)

“Funds raised through the annual craft show help support guest artists who come in from all over the nation to teach and perform with our students, as well as help with financial support for those students who take private lessons and attend fine arts camps,” Kohlhoff said.

The ability to provide financial support to students and give them the opportunity to perform with experienced musicians are only a small part in maintaining the Byron Center Fine Arts programs.

Life skills are also a central theme in the Byron Center Fine Arts objective — “Students learn to become a better person and grow as an individual,” said Kohlhoff.

Handcrafted items are always holiday gift worthy, as these from the Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School. (Supplied, from previous year)

This year’s craft show boasts over 200 vendors and something new — food trucks. Instead of the usual concessions, several food trucks will offer a variety of food for shoppers. Stationed outside next to a protected sidewalk, food truck vendors will fill food orders that shoppers can then take into the school cafeteria to eat if desired.

“We have great community support,” Kohlhoff said of the craft show. “Vendor places are highly sought after and we have several veteran (returning) vendors who come every year, often calling the day after the show has ended to apply for a spot in the show for the following year.”

The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters Craft Show will be held on Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame SW, and offers free parking. Admission fee is $3 at the door, with children 12 and under admitted for free.

Additional November craft and vendor events include:

Frederick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Holiday Gift Show, Saturday, Nov. 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Rivertown Craft & Vendor Event FALL FEST 2021, Saturday, Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. until Sunday, Nov. 14 at 6 p.m.

The Terra Square Farmers Market Made in Michigan, Saturday Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Blandford Nature Center Nature Makers Market, Saturday, Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Wyoming Holiday Craft Show, Saturday, Nov. 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Comstock Park High School Craft Show, Saturday, Nov. 20 during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Wyoming Wolves Band Boosters, Saturday, Nov. 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The month of December also boasts craft and vendor shopping opportunities:

Northview Winter Craft Show and Santa Breakfast, Saturday, Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Holiday Craft and Vendor Show hosted by Woodland Mall, Saturday Dec. 4, during the hours of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters’ annual craft show at Byron Center High School supports the schools fine arts programs including the jazz band. (Supplied)

U.S. Navy sailor from Kentwood pictured serving his country onboard USS Tulsa

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Mineman 1st Class Jacob Klok, from Kentwood, is shown onboard the USS Tulsa. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Devin M. Langer) 

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

In this photo supplied by the U.S. Navy Office of Community Outreach, Mineman 1st Class Jacob Klok, a Kelloggsville High School graduate from Kentwood, works aboard the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Tulsa (LCS 16). Minemen (MN) serve abroad ships which detect and neutralize mines, according the U.S. Navy website. Minemen also assemble and test underwater explosive devices. 

The Tulsa, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to “enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” according to supplied material.

(Do you have a photo of a Kentwood or Wyoming area native serving in the military? WKTV journal would love to get the photo and a brief description. Send it to ken@WKTV.org.)

For one West Michigan woman, knowledge is power as she faces Huntington’s disease, search for a cure

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Ashley Greenway — with husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody — is a wife and mother from Holland who has tested positive for Huntington’s Disease and is an advocate for the cause though her work with the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

When it comes to Huntington’s disease, a fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, some people simply do not want to know if they have the defective gene.

According to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA), there are currently approximately 41,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease. The symptoms of HD are sometimes described as having ALS, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s — simultaneously. And it has no cure.

For Ashley Greenway, a wife and mother from Holland, Mich., who has tested positive for Huntington’s disease (HD) — leading to the knowledge that it may well impact her physical and mental abilities during her prime years and that her two children are at risk — testing was the right thing to do.

In her case, knowledge was and is power: the power to speak out; the power to advocate; the power to help others now and — maybe — her children in the future.

“Someday, my kids may need to take advantage of the resources HDSA has to offer and I wanted to make sure that I did my part,” Greenway said recently to WKTV. “It’s the same feeling when I participate in medical studies for HDSA. Last week I was in Wisconsin and had a lumbar puncture done so HDSA could have spinal fluid to assist in their efforts to better understand the disease and find a cure.

“A cure may not be available in my lifetime, but perhaps my kids could receive it. It’s very rewarding just thinking that I play a small part in helping understand and cure this disease.”

Finding out, finding ways to help

After first finding out she was at risk in 2006, then researching and agreeing to be tested, she tested positive in 2012. She then also faced inward soul-searching and outward reflection of her own family.

Ashley Greenway, with husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody. (HDSA)

“At the time of diagnosis I was working outside the home and a mother already,” Greenway said. “I do believe that if I had known my prognosis prior to having kids, it would have impacted my decision on starting a family. The first thing my parent with HD said to me when I told them I was positive was ‘I’m sorry’. … I can’t imagine the guilt I’ll feel if I find out I passed this on to my kids.”

But, she points out, now there are methods available for couples at risk of HD to have kids with no HD risk.

While she declined to talk much about her HD-positive parent — who is nearing 60 year old but with no symptoms — Greenway did say was the only one in her family, out of 20 at risk members (first cousins, their children, siblings, and nephews), that has been tested voluntarily.

“No one else is open about it or wants to know,” she said.

“I used to think of that day (when she learned the test results) as the day I was given my expiration date, but now I see it as the day I became a better person,” Greenway said in supplied material. “Surprisingly, I didn’t cry. I was too in shock to process. I was trying to figure out what this meant and how I felt. I have three siblings, two nephews, and my own two children that are at risk of inheriting this horrific disease and I’m the only one who’s been tested.”

And how did she respond to knowing?

In 2013, Greenway started to get more involved in the HD community, including involvement with the Predict HD medical study out of Rochester, New York. In 2014, Ashley was involved with the documentary film Alive and Well, the film follows seven people coming to terms with the reality of living with HD.

She went back to school, graduating in 2015 from Baker College of Muskegon with an associates degree in business. In 2019, she trained for the Chicago Marathon with Team Run for HD, but it was cancelled due to the pandemic. Recently she took part in the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) #LetsTalkAboutHD Stories.

Ashley Greenway’s daughter Bailey, shown with a quilt inspired by Ashley’s work with the West Michigan Team Hope run/walk, a fundraising event for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)

She has also have become heavily involved with the annual HDSA’s West Michigan Team Hope Walk/5K Run — the West Michigan portion of HDSA’s largest national grassroots fundraising event, which takes place in over 100 cities across the U.S. and has raised more than $20 million for Huntington’s disease since its inception in 2007.

She has gained support from her family in her work as well — husband Kyle, daughter Bailey and son Brody — both with her fundraising and with her advocacy for the cause. To honor all that support, she even has made a quilt out of all her family’s and friend’s Team Hope shirts from previous years and donated it to HDSA as a silent auction raffle item.

She is now lead coordinator for the local event, and has seen the event though a rough time in this time of COVID.

“During 2020, HDSA had to cancel all of their in-person events,” Greenway said. “These events generate a lot of funds for social worker’s salaries, grants to scientists for trials, or money to families affected by HD for medical bills. Whatever the use of the funds, they were understandably lacking during the pandemic. … It was important to me that our group still meet our fundraising goal for the year.”

And, Greenway says, she leans on her HD-positive parent as she moves into the future.

“My HD positive parent is still here inspiring me to stay strong and encouraging me to get more involved in HDSA, without symptoms,” she said in supplied material. “My involvement in HDSA provides me with a sense of purpose I’ve never felt before. When HD takes me out of this world, I’ll be leaving it a better place because of how I’ve helped this HD Community.” 

Huntington’s Disease Society of America

HDSA was founded in 1967 by Marjorie Guthrie, the wife of legendary folk singer Woody Guthrie. Woody died from HD complications when he was only 55 years old, but the Guthrie family legacy lives on at HDSA.

A sign at a West Michigan Team Hope run/walk, a fundraising event for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. (HDSA)

The DNA error that causes HD is found in a gene called “huntingtin”. This gene was discovered in 1993. Everyone has the “huntingtin” gene, but only those that inherit the mistake, known as the HD mutation, will develop HD and risk passing it on to their children.

HDSA, according to supplied material, is the “premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease. From community services and education to advocacy and research, HDSA is the world’s leader in providing help for today, hope for tomorrow for people with Huntington’s disease and their families.”

One of its current efforts involved changes to federal rules which it comes to Medicare policy through advocacy for the HD Parity Act (HR 2050/S 868) in 2021.

“Without passage of the HD Parity Act, patients with Huntington’s disease will continue to suffer the mandated 2-year waiting period for Medicare benefits after qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance,” according to an HDSA statement. “Individuals with HD have a progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disorder. During those two years, patients continue to decline, and are falling through our social safety net by being denied access to Medicare when they need it most.”

For more information on the HD Parity Act, visit HDSA.org/takeaction.

To learn more about Huntington’s disease and the work of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, visit HDSA.org or call 800-345-HDSA.

City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat community celebration returns with long lines, lots — and lots — of candy 

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat community event invited trick-or-treaters to don their costumes and come to the city’s Department of Public Works building Saturday, Oct. 23, where there were long lines of families and lots of kids in search of candy.

The free event went on for hours with hundreds of families waiting to take a stroll by city police, fire and public works vehicles, as well the of community groups — all with their vehicle’s trunks decorated and stationed inside the building handing out candy and other items.

WKTV was there, to capture some of the spooky happenings and cute costumes, and we asked a few of the trick-or-treaters “What’s their favorite candy?”
 

In addition to collecting candy, participants had the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk. Children were encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and face coverings — and the kids did not disappoint, nor did many of their parents.

  • The City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department offered plenty of fun — and a few scares — for the community kids at the city’s Trunk or Treat event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • The City of Kentwood offered dress-up opportunity for all ages at the city’s Trunk or Treat event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • The City of Kentwood offered opportunity for dress-up for adults too at the city’s Trunk or Treat event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • Kentwood Public Schools’ robotics program had a display at the City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Rodney Crowell, a founding father of Americana, comes to St. Cecilia Music Center’s Acoustic Café Series

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Rodney Crowell’s “Triage” album cover. (Supplied)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

If you know Rodney Crowell, who will be coming to St. Cecilia Music Center’s Royce Auditorium Nov. 12, you know how great a singer/songwriter he is. If you don’t, you have undoubtedly heard people that you do recognize sing his songs.

Crowell has won numerous awards, including two GRAMMYs and six Americana Music Association Awards as well as their Lifetime Achievement for Songwriter award. This last accolade resonates deeply with a man who has stacked up 15 number one hits including six of his own, and dozens of other chart-topping hits for an impressively diverse array of artists including Emmylou Harris, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Keith Urban, Bob Seger, Etta James, and the Grateful Dead.

Some of Crowell’s written classics include “Bull Rider,” performed by Johnny Cash in 1979, and “She’s Crazy for Leavin’,” co-written with Guy Clark and performed by Guy Clark in 1981. More recently, Tim McGraw performed “Please Remember Me,” written by Crowell and Will Jennings.

Often described as Nashville royalty, Crowell will be of the St. Cecilia’s Acoustic Café Series with a live performance beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.

Crowell does not dwell in the past, however, and he has an impressive list of his own recordings.

With more than 40 years of American roots music under his belt, Crowell has 18 albums to his name, with his most recent album, Rodney Crowell: Triage, released in June of this year.

Rodney Crowell in concert. (Supplied)

“This new collection of songs was written during the great political, climate and economic upheaval that has marked recent years,” it states on Crowell’s website in reference to the new album. “The noise of that chaos encouraged the songwriter to go inside for solace and answers. The result is this series of songs that contend with these themes but approach them from a place of healing love and solution. That they are being released while we find ourselves walking through a global pandemic, is a gift of perfect timing.”

   

On song is particularly personal to Crowell, and yet “expansive enough for everyone to relate” — “Transient Global Amnesia Blues” — as he explains on his website.

“One morning after a long walk, I asked my wife, Claudia, the same question nine times before she loaded me into the car and sped off to the hospital. The next thing I remember is being shoved into an MRI machine. Transient Global Amnesia, a benign form of amnesia that in ninety-eight percent of cases never returns, was the diagnosis — an overnight stay in the hospital the prescribed treatment.

“The next morning my daughter texted a photograph of a sunflower growing on a piece of driftwood on the Thames River. I had most of the song written before leaving the hospital at noon. Four days later I had a finished recording.”

After the Rodney Crowell concert St. Cecilia Music Center’s Acoustic Café Series continues through the fall, winter and into spring 2022. This fall, Leo Kottke is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 19; the Milk Carton Kids on Thursday, Dec. 2; and Watkins Family Hour on Thursday, Dec. 16.

“It’s so exciting to have traveling artists and live audiences back in the building,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia Music Center executive & artistic director, said in supplied material.

Special pandemic policy

SCMC currently requires proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert.
 

In areas with substantial and high transmission, the CDC recommends that everyone (including fully vaccinated individuals) wear a mask in public indoor settings to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially the Delta variant, and to protect others. To that end, SCMC is requiring that all attendees wear a mask while in the building. They will continue to monitor the COVID environment and may change policies at any time if necessary.

If you have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.

For more information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit SCMC-online.org.

WKTV’s K.D. Norris contributed to this story.

Proposed legislation could impact law enforcement qualified immunity, increase exposure to financial damages

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(Photo supplied by Kent County Sheriffs’ Office)

By Barbara Bellinger, Capital News Service

Police and other Michigan government employees could be sued and held liable if they hurt or kill someone while on the job, under proposed legislation working through the state legislature.

Current, qualified immunity shields government workers from lawsuits for gross misconduct or negligence while on duty.

A police reform package pushed by the state House of Representatives’ Democrats would reduce the blanket protections. They say it would allow police departments and other government agencies to more easily weed out bad apples.

“If you go over, above and beyond, outside the scope of your duties that are spelled out, there has to be some accountability,” said co-sponsor Rep. Tyrone Carter, D-Detroit, a 24-year veteran of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. “And the general public is tired of paying for lawsuits for officers for their outrageous, egregious conduct.”

Locally, Kent County’s top law enforcement official is quick to define that qualified immunity is much more than simply a policing issue, and says changes are unnecessary.

Qualified immunity “is a very complex term, but simplistically put, it is something that protects an individual from the government, an individual who is a representative of the government — it may be a police officer but it may be the sewer guy or it may be someone from the health department,” Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young said in a recent interview with WKTV. “It protects them from being held liable for a decision they make if that decision is in compliance with local laws, policies and procedures of the department, and doesn’t act in a way that is irresponsible, outside of their direction.

“The consequences for taking qualified immunity away really has to do with the civil liability of the government unit. … None of that is to say the a person should not be personally responsible for a decision that is outside of their training and direction and procedures. … There is already a way to sue a government (or government individual) that is not compliant.” 

Support and opposition to change is a national issue

A national survey by the Cato Institute found that 63 percent of Americans support eliminating governmental immunity.

Nationwide criticism of qualified immunity catapulted into the public eye after the murder of George Floyd who was killed by a Minneapolis policeman on May 25, 2020. Since Floyd’s death, Colorado, Connecticut, New York and New Mexico either ended or limited the protective scope of qualified immunity.

“Although qualified immunity has prevented victims of police misconduct from holding officers accountable for decades, until recently it had been a relatively obscure doctrine that was not on the radar of many non-lawyers,” said Michael Steinberg in a faculty Q&A. Steinberg, who advocates for ending qualified immunity, is a professor and director of the Civil Rights Litigation Initiative at the University of Michigan Law School.

But strong resistance to any change in the law remains.

The U.S. Supreme Court recently upheld such protection by overturning lower court decisions to remove qualified immunity in cases in California and Oklahoma.

Bipartisan police reform negotiations in the U.S. Congress ended without resolution in September, even after Democrats removed controversial changes suggested for qualified immunity.

The Michigan bills are co-sponsored by Detroit representatives and House Democrats across the state. If they are signed into law, when police officers or government officials are sued and found liable, they will have to personally write the check.

Law enforcement officials say that’s a deal breaker.

“When a municipality gets faced with a lawsuit, more times than not they look at it as a business decision on whether or not to settle,” Livingston County Sheriff Michael Murphy said.

And the insurance company or municipality writes the check, he said. “I’m a cop. I’m just essentially a blue collar worker. I don’t have a million dollar check to write.”

Qualified immunity does not mean that law officers have complete immunity for their actions, Murphy said. It has to be granted by a judge.

“This is not something that the cop or the municipality can just hold up and say, ‘Oh, hey, I work for the government or I’m a cop, I get qualified immunity.’”

Removing qualified immunity protection is currently a case-by-case decision, Steinberg said.

Under the qualified immunity defense, people injured by police or family members of those killed must prove the violation of their rights with examples from “nearly-identical” court cases, the American Civil Liberties of Michigan said in a prepared statement.

Still, police say removing any part of the qualified immunity statute is a bad idea.

“Ending qualified immunity puts police officers always at risk of having their actions judged, not by what they knew, and not judged on what the rules were today but judged upon hindsight being 20-20,” said Bob Stevenson of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police.

Murphy and Kenneth Grabowski, the legislative director of the Police Officers Association of Michigan, say they believe the current law is working fine.

“Most of this stuff is just to placate people complaining,” said Grabowski. “But it works.”
 

Murphy said that if people understood how difficult it is to get qualified immunity, this discussion wouldn’t even be taking place.

“I really, truly believe in my heart, that most men and women put on that uniform every day to do the right thing,” he said.

WKTV’s K.D. Norris contributed to this story.

Remembrance and renewal: veteran home’s Hebe Fountain restoration campaign brings back memories

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  • The current state of the Hebe Fountain at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
  • Larry Arreguin Sr. was a proud World War 2 U.S. Navy veteran involved with many veterans organizations, and was loving family man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease in the last years of his life. (Courtesy of Arreguin family)
  • Larry Arreguin’s sons, Aaron and Caton, after playing in the Hebe Fountain at what is now called the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids during a visit to the facility to visit their grandfather, Larry Arreguin, Sr.. (Courtesy of Arreguin family)
  • Larry Arreguin with his sons. (Courtesy of Arreguin family)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

For many people, memories of visiting the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, previously known as the Grand Rapids Veterans Home, are bittersweet — caring people caring for a father or brother; strolling the grounds, the veterans cemetery in the distance; sitting quietly around the historic Hebe Fountain.

For Larry Arreguin, memories of his father, Larry Sr., a proud World War 2 U.S. Navy veteran and loving family man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease before he died in 2004, are forever linked to the facility and the fountain.

“The Hebe Fountain and Michigan Veterans Home in Grand Rapids played a significant role” in his father’s and his family’s history, Arreguin said to WKTV. “Both of these places own a somber and joyful piece of my heart.”

Arreguin — a Detroit resident who has worked in a staff position for the City of Detroit and the office of U.S. Rep. John Conyers, Jr., as well as serving on the board of the Michigan Alliance of Latinos Moving Toward Advancement — spoke to WKTV as the Michigan Veteran Homes GR is embarking on a long-awaited restoration campaign of the historic Hebe Fountain on its campus.

The campaign hopes to receive 100 percent of the $120,000 in funds needed by this Veterans Day, Nov 11, of this year.

“My family and I would visit my father at the Home and we would often sit with him near the fountain and enjoy the day while my children would play nearby,” Arreguin said. “Every time we were there, we tended to gravitate towards the Hebe Fountain. During the warm months, my toddlers would splash in the fountain and my father and I would sit there, laughing at how much fun they were having.”
 

Larry Sr., was diagnosed with Alzheimers in 2001 while he lived with Arreguin and his wife in in Detroit.

“A year before, we were fortunate to have twin boys (Aaron and Caton) join our family and was blessed to have a nanny staying with us. However, in 2002, my fathers condition worsened and another son (Cesar) arrived,” Arreguin said. “Trying to care for three babies and also an elder became too much for my wife and I.

“As we searched throughout Michigan for assistance, one place kept coming up and that was the Michigan Veterans Home at Grand Rapids. We knew there was a special wing at the facility that was designed to care for Alzheimer’s patients and after many days praying we decided to take my father there to visit. Once there, the nurses and other staff were so welcoming and pleasant that I felt confident in the quality of care that was being provided. I knew admitting him there would provide a much better quality of life than what I could back in Detroit.”

On Feb. 16, 2004, Larry Sr. passed away from complications from Alzheimers.

“He lived his life to the fullest and was always cognizant of the sacrifices made by others that served in the Armed Forces,” Arreguin said. “He did this through his work as Commander of American Legions Post 183, Chef de Gare of Voiture 946 of the Forty and Eight and his work with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts 701 and 6132.”
  

In his travels, Arreguin said, he often stops by the home to “reflect on the wonderful experiences” and to express his gratitude to the staff for all they did.

“Although last year when I visited, I was saddened to see the condition of Hebe Fountain, and made it a point to agitate and advocate for repair,” he said. “I’m hopeful, my boys and I can return when the fountain is restored to its previous glory and once again feel that tremendous happiness that was felt when visiting my father.”

  • Lee Walton, veteran resident of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, tours the Hebe Fountain at the facility with Tiffany Carr, community engagement coordinator at Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH). (Supplied)
  • The current state of the Hebe Fountain at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
  • The current state of the Hebe Fountain at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
  • The current state of the Hebe Fountain at the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)

History, deterioration over the years

The fountain, designated as a local landmark by the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission in November 1990, has been adored by veteran members and visitors to the campus since it was established by J.L. Mott Iron Works in 1893.

But over the last three decades, weather and deferred maintenance has caused the fountain to erode, and it has remained inoperable since being shut off in 2019.

The first noticeable step in the hoped-for restoration process will be the dismantling of the fountain to send it to restoration experts for a much-needed refresh, set to begin this week.

The complete restoration of the Hebe Fountain will include a new water filtration system, structural repairs to the base and water reservoir and a restoration of the adjacent drinking water fountain. Any remaining funds will be dedicated to annual maintenance and landscape beautification.

“The Hebe Fountain has been part of our legacy in caring for our nation’s heroes both past and present since 1893,” Tiffany Carr, community engagement coordinator at Michigan Veteran Homes, said in supplied material. “We owe it to our members to restore this landmark to its former glory and continue to offer veterans a place to call Home that remembers and honors its history.”

The Hebe Fountain Restoration Campaign follows the opening of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, a new state-of-the-art facility that consists of four unique neighborhood buildings and a community center on the campus in Grand Rapids. Veteran members began moving into the new “Home” in July of this year.

Persons who wish to donate to the Hebe Fountain Restoration Project can send a check payable to Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids at 3000 Monroe Avenue N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49505.

Persons can also visit michigan.gov/mvh, click on Support MVH, followed by Donate and then Donate Online and select Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids as your donation option.

For more information or questions about the restoration project, contact Tiffany Carr at carrt1@michigan.gov or 616-365-3834.

Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) is the entity that provides day-to-day operational oversight of the state’s veteran homes on behalf of the Michigan Veterans Facility Authority (MVFA) and is a branch of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). The MVH operates the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR), the Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti (MVHDJJ) in Marquette and the new Michigan Veteran Homes at Chesterfield Township (MVHCT).

For more information visit: michigan.gov/mvh.

The Way Down Wanderers to bring new music, grass-fed comfort sounds to Listening Room

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The Way Down Wonderers. (Supplied/Keith Cotton)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

When you first read anything about the Midwest-bred The Way Down Wanderers, the line “somewhere on the spectrum between Old Crow Medicine Show and Mumford & Sons” often pops up.

And while the sounds of Old Crow, an Americana string band based in Nashville, and Mumford, a British folk rock band steeped in Americana, may be contradictory in some ways, there is that bluegrass-based heart-a-beating in both. And The Way Down Wanderers play the same tune but with a unique edge.

It will be all listening to the tune, and the vocal duo solos and harmonies of Austin Krause-Thompson and Colin Krause, when The Way Down Wanderers set up at Listening Room at Studio Park in Grand Rapids Friday, Oct. 29.

The Way Down Wanderers album cover for More Like Tomorrow.

The band’s eclectic blend of roots-based sounds — from rock, folk and bluegrass, to elements of pop, jazz and classical and pop — are on full display on their latest record More Like Tomorrow, released on Sept. 10 on Soundly Music.

“I love it when the song itself dictates the sonic arrangement — the pop sensibilities or Americana we can throw in there,” Colin says in supplied material about the new release. “I think just allowing the song to exist as its own entity is really important.”

Many of the songs on More Like Tomorrow do seem to take on a life of their own, both musically and intellectually. There are stories of loss and empathy (“Codeine Rest and Loneliness”), self-improvement and acceptance (“The Wire” ), becoming a new parent (“Forever” & “Two Parts One Heart), addiction and self-forgiveness (“Parkside Drive”) the fragility of life (“Everything’s Made Out Of Sand”).

“I think more so on this record than ever, the songs are just more direct, with acute meanings in our own situations,” Austin says in supplied material. “Each’s song’s story is less broad. I think, at least for me, writing is definitely growing more and more personal.”

The Way Down Wonderers. (Supplied/Philip Hosticka)

But, like Mumford’s songs at their best, the deep thoughts are carefully wrapped in catchy, driving tunes with a wall of bluegrass/Americana sounds carrying them.

In addition to Austin (lead vocals, guitar, keys, mandolin) and Colin (lead vocals, mandolin, guitar, fiddle), the Peoria, Illinois-based quintet Way Down Wonderers include John Merikoski (drums, percussion, piano, backing vocals), Travis Kowalsly (banjo), and John Williams (electric and upright bass, backing vocals).

More Like Tomorrow is the follow up to The Way Down Wanderers’ acclaimed 2018 sophomore album illusions, which garnered high praise from The Associated Press, Rolling Stone Country and others. More Like Tomorrow was recorded and produced by David Schiffman (HAIM, Rage Against The Machine and Audioslave), who also produced illusions.

Visit here for tickets to the show at Listening Room and more information.

The Listening Room is a 200-seat intimate venue with top-notch sound equipment and in-seat services for drinks. It is located at Studio Park, 123 Ionia Ave, SW. Indoor shows require proof of COCID vaccination or negative COVID test within 72 hours, according to its website.

 

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, WKTV partnership begins new ‘Hands On Health’ informational program

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Karla Black, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at Kent County Health Department, was invited to Hands on Health to discuss COVID-19 and the vaccines with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Kentwood non-profit Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is always looking for new ways to serve the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing communities. And WKTV Community Media is always looking for ways to work with groups in service of its Wyoming, Kentwood and West Michigan audience.

So the two this fall have partnered to begin a new multi-media project, Hands on Health, to provide health education in a format that is accessible to the Deaf, Deaf/Blind, Hard of Hearing — as well as other community members.

The first two episodes are now available on WKTV cable channels in Wyoming and Kentwood (check out the initial schedule below and WKTV cable schedule), on the WKTV Video Podcast page, and on the social media platforms of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (D&HHS) — YouTube and Facebook.

D&HHS, according to supplied material, has served the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing (D/DB/HH) communities across West Michigan for more than 25 years. The agency began after a deaf man’s medical emergency turned nearly fatal due to the emergency services’ lack of accessibility.

“The situation shone a light on the lack of access and services for the D/DB/HH communities,” Deb Atwood, D&HHS executive director, said in printed material. “Today, our agency serves 27 counties across West Michigan, providing a wide range of services specifically for the D/DB/HH communities.

“Each day, we work toward our mission of providing equal communication access, education, and advocacy to the Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing in pursuit of all life’s opportunities.

The genesis of Hands On Health

A study published in 2016 by a group of University Medical Departments found that health literacy among the deaf is alarmingly low. When compared to their hearing counterparts, deaf participants were 6.9 times more likely to have inadequate health literacy.

These disparities are caused by several factors including communication barriers, fewer opportunities for incidental learning, and especially lack of accessible information. Many within the D/DB/HH communities are not given appropriate access to information that allows them to understand or practice autonomy over their own health.

“Our agency has recognized the of issue inadequate health literacy among the D/DB/HH in the Greater Grand Rapids area and throughout West Michigan,” Erica Chapin, D&HHS community and partnership manager, said in printed material. “These issues were made alarmingly clear throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. With limited accessible information about COVID-19 and vaccines, D/DB/HH individuals have been susceptible to misinformation and unable to make informed decisions about their health and safety.

“This situation has brought to light the lack of information on general health and wellness topics. To combat this issue, our agency is starting the ‘Hands On Health’ video series that provides health education in a format that is accessible to the D/DB/HH and other communities.”

These first two episodes feature two deaf hosts — Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President — with guest Karla Black, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at Kent County Health Department, who was invited to discuss COVID-19 and the vaccines.

Hands on Health has premiered on WKTV Cable Channel 25 with Episode 1 continuing today, Oct. 21, at 5 p.m. Episode 2 will premiere Oct. 25 at 9 p.m., and continue Oct. 26 at 9:30 a.m., and Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. They may also run at different days and times; see the weekly schedule.

For more information and to donate to Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services, visit  www.deafhhs.org/donate.

Suggestions for future topics can be sent to handsonhealth@deafhhs.org.

Hands on Health continues a discussion on COVID-19 and the vaccines, hosted by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services’ Nancy Piersma, Community Education Coordinator, and Rowan O’Dougherty, Board President. (WKTV)

After $4 million appropriation, state official tours site of Kent County Sustainable Business Park

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Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, (center in yellow vest) discusses the proposed Kent County Sustainable Business Park in Byron Center with Liesl Eichler Clark, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, (Center in orange vest) on a tour Oct. 15. (Kent County)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Following the announcement of a $4 million appropriation from the State of Michigan, the director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy last week toured the South Kent Landfill and future site of the proposed Kent County Sustainable Business Park.

Also on the Friday, Oct. 15, tour were representatives from Kent County Department of Public Works, Allegan County and Dorr Township. The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) recently included a $4 million appropriation in the 2022 state budget to support necessary infrastructure improvements at the site.

Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, (in yellow vest) discusses the proposed Kent County Sustainable Business Park in Byron Center with Liesl Eichler Clark, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, (Center in orange vest) on a tour Oct. 15. (Kent County)

Approved in 2018, the Sustainable Business Park Master Plan lays out “a vision for transitioning away from landfilling waste in favor of placing value on components of the waste as feedstock for new products or fuel sources,” according to the county. The Master Plan calls for an anchor tenant that will receive the mixed waste currently going to the landfill and separate it for other future tenants to utilize.

“Kent County’s Sustainable Business Park is an important investment in sustainable materials management and growing a vibrant circular economy. This initiative puts Michiganders to work making new products from the materials residents take to their curb each week,” Liesl Eichler Clark, director of EGLE, said in supplied material. “This site visit is a chance to get a first-hand look at what’s planned with State of Michigan support for the project, and learn about the park’s potential to increase recycling, conserve natural resources, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

The Sustainable Business Park, planned for 250 acres adjacent to the South Kent Landfill in Byron Center, will be built on land that was initially purchased by Kent County to create a new landfill. The state funding will go to infrastructure improvements on the site such as utilities, roads and stormwater to prepare it for initial tenants. The first phase of infrastructure development is estimated to cost $19 million.

“The site visit by EGLE allowed us the opportunity to show how this project is moving us closer to our landfill diversion goals in Kent County,” Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, said in supplied material. “The state funding will lay the foundation for additional private investment in the entire park.”

For more on the Sustainable Business Park, visit previous WKTV stories here.

Kent County Land for planned Sustainable Business Park, aerial shot that includes the property adjacent to the landfill, with the landfill in the background. (Kent County)

Local author, descendent of Sojourner Truth, creates children’s book detailing ancestor’s iconic life

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Cory Mcliechey, a descendent of Sojourner Truth, keeps his family’s legacy thriving with his recently released children’s book, “Keeping the Truth Alive.” (Supplied)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

Cory P. Mcliechey, a 5th generation grandson to iconic historical figure Sojourner Truth, keeps his family’s legacy thriving with his recently released children’s book, “Keeping the Truth Alive.”

In Mcliechey’s debut tale, he strives to educate today’s youth about a historical woman and the trials she endured.

The cover of Cory Mcliechey’s recently released children’s book about Sojourner, “Keeping the Truth Alive.” (Supplied)

“Keeping the Truth Alive” contains colorful illustrations that Mcliechey himself designed and created, captivating readers as they learn about a heroine who stood against her oppressors and fought against inequality and racism, providing greatness to America despite the obstacles Sojourner Truth experienced.

Having recently lost his parents, Mcliechey told WKTV that he felt driven to finish the book as a way to keep his familial legacy alive.

“I dedicated it to the memory of my parents whom me and my siblings had to bury earlier this year,” Mcliechey, a Grand Rapids resident, said to WKTV “That was my motivation in getting the book done.”

Book an extension of community work

Following in the footsteps of his ancestors, Mcliechey has been a community advocate and activist for many years, “fighting for equality and justice,” he said.

Cory Mcliechey’s Top Notch Kids community program aims to change the narrative of the gun by providing real life opportunities to rejuvenate communities using the “GUNS” of home improvement — caulk guns, staple, guns, nail guns, and paint guns. (Supplied)

One of the goals he hopes to accomplish through his activism is helping people realize that, “Throughout all of the ‘isms,’ such as racism, the different hues and colors of people are a reflection of God’s majesty. Don’t get it mixed up with how we view it as humans.”

Mcliechey paused, then repeated, “Different hues, but human.”

Mcliechey has put action to his words, founding a non-profit organization, Descendants of the Truth, whose sole agenda is to educate youth on their history while teaching them life skills.

Top Notch Kids is one program among many under the umbrella of Descendants of the Truth. Designed to encourage and inspire youth to help revitalize their neighborhoods, this movement provides a fun and safe alternative to the culture of violence so prevalent in today’s world, he said.

(Supplied)

Top Notch Kids aims to change the narrative of the gun by providing real life opportunities to rejuvenate communities using the “GUNS” of home improvement, such as caulk guns, staple, guns, nail guns, and paint guns. This not only helps them take part in their community, it allows children to attain a valuable skill to help with career readiness.

The motto of Top Notch Kids emphasizes the objective: “We don’t kill with guns, we build with guns.”

Book part of series, documentary in work

When asked about his plans for the future, Mcliechey said that he intends to continue Sojourner Truth’s story as a series.

“I want to continue with Sojourner Truth’s story because there is so much to know about her. This (“Keeping the Truth Alive”) is just a small glimpse of what she’s done for society and America,” Mcliechey said.

The author is also preparing to create a Top Notch Kids children’s book that focuses more on current issues versus history. The main objective of the new work is stressing safety, improvement of self and community, and to guide children toward helping their community.

Cory Mcliechey’s artwork has gained admirers such as American feminist journalist and social-political activist Gloria Steinem. (Supplied)

A more immediate work-in-progress is a documentary on Sojourner Truth’s journey from enslavement to activism and advocacy.

Mcliechey has been working closely with Lateef Calloway, founder of the Phoeion Group LLC (dba Calliwood Productions LLC), and American feminist journalist and social-political activist Gloria Steinem, to showcase how Sojourner Truth’s teachings impacted Truth’s descendants’ individual lives and their views on civil rights, human rights, and women’s rights.

In fact, it was while working with Calloway that Mcliechey’s artistic side reignited.

“I’ve always been an artist,” Mcliechey said, “but it had become dormant. Lateef reignited my passion for art.”

Mcliechey attributes his ability to create the illustrations for “Keeping the Truth Alive” to Calloway and his mentorship.

Calloway also encouraged Mcliechey to design a painting for Steinem. As a way to draw attention to issues of women today and continue Gloria’s legacy, Mcliechey produced a painting of an African Goddess, featuring 24-Karat gold leaf imported from Thailand, which is now hanging in Steinem’s brownstone.

To order a copy of “Keeping the Truth Alive” by Cory P. Mcliechey, visit here.

To learn about the separate Sojourner Truth Memorial currently underway to honor the American icon, visit here.

Kelloggsville Public Schools seeks voter support of technology bond measure in November

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  • Kelloggsville Public Schools planned STEM building. (Visual supplied by TowerPinkster)
  • Kelloggsville Public Schools planned STEM building. (Visual supplied by TowerPinkster)
  • Kelloggsville Public Schools planned STEM building. (Visual supplied by TowerPinkster)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Voters in the Kelloggsville Public Schools district will be asked to approve an $11.3 million bond proposal on the Nov. 2 ballot which will allow the district to build a S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) building at the high school as well as other building projects.

Kelloggsville students would gain technology space and equipment. (Supplied)

“Our goal is to give our students an exceptional facility that will provide opportunities for S.T.E.M., robotics, and business classes,” according to a statement on the district website. The additions “would expand opportunities for our students to explore technology through an updated media center, S.T.E.M. building, and (to) participate in our robotics program.”

The last day to register to vote by mail for the November ballot is Oct. 18. See here for a map of the school district, which has voters in both Kentwood and Wyoming.

Passage of the bond measure would not increase residential take above the current tax rate, also according to district supplied material, “it would simply continue with the existing debt levy.”

The funds from the bond measure will allow for the construction and addition of a S.T.E.M. building at the high school complex, a new media center at Southeast elementary, continue efforts to “provide and update safe and secure entrances” throughout the district, and well as technology upgrades to “enhance instruction.”

In addition to Kelloggsville High School, the district includes Kelloggsville Middle School, Southeast Kelloggsville Elementary, Central Kelloggsville Elementary, West Kelloggsville Elementary, Kelloggsville Virtual School and the Kelloggsville Early Childhood Learning Center.

For more information on the bond proposal visit here.

Return to (spooky) normal, Kentwood will host annual Trunk or Treat on Oct. 23

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The City of Kentwood’s Trunk or Treat event will return in full this month with all its family friendly fun. (City of Kentwood)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

After a modified Trunk or Treat last year, when pandemic precautions allowed only a drive-through event for the Kentwood community, the City of Kentwood is once again inviting trick-or-treaters to don their costumes and come to the city’s Trunk or Treat event Saturday, Oct. 23.

Dress up is encouraged at this year’s Trunk or Treat in Kentwood. (Supplied)

“Trunk or Treat gives families a fun alternative to door-to-door Halloween activities while connecting with community organizations in a more controlled environment,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “It also offers holiday-decor enthusiasts the opportunity to get creative with their trunks. Halloween is such a spirited holiday, and we’re looking forward to seeing all of the costumes and trunks that come out of this year’s event.”

The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE, where 20-plus city and community vehicles will be stationed with decorated trunks filled with candy.

In addition to collecting candy, participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk. Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and face coverings and bring their own bag for collecting candy.

Local businesses and community groups can participate in Trunk or Treat by registering for free online until 4 p.m., Friday, Oct. 15.

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department will continue to monitor public health guidance and state orders, which may necessitate changes to the event.

More information is available at kentwood.us/TrunkOrTreat.

Modern music, live audience energizes dancers as Grand Rapid Ballet comes ‘Off the Canvas’

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Adam Hougland’s ballet, “Cold Virtues”, scored by Philip Glass, is loosely based on “Dangerous Liaisons”, and follows a story of a power couple, moved to manipulate society for their own entertainment. (Supplied/Scott Rasmussen)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Grand Rapids Ballet, after a year of beautiful but somewhat distant virtual performances last season as the troupe and everybody else battled COVID-19 shutdowns, will return to the live stage this week with the first weekend of its 2021-22 season of live-audience (and still virtual) performances.

GR Ballet artistic director James Sofranko and his 19 dancers’ return to the Peter Martin Wege Theatre stage — with a live audience watching, and listening to the exquisite marriage of dance and music — is an opportunity to return to a sense of normal as much as it is to a live stage.

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

The debut program, Off The Canvas, will offer three modern dances, choreographed by modern masters, set to modern music — including Philip Glass — or at least modern takes on classic music.

The program title is a reference to the brush strokes of a painting coming “off the canvas,” and does not have any relation to the common pugilist term “getting up off the canvas” after being knocked down — or does it?

Katarzyna Skarpetowska’s work, “Off the Canvas,” is set to music by Adrian Lim-Klumpes and Vivaldi. (Supplied(

“The title of this program Off The Canvas is taken from one of the ballets we are presenting from choreographer Katarzyna Skarpetowska, which is in fact called ‘Off the Canvas’,” Sofranko said to WKTV. “Her piece is inspired by the Baccus paintings of abstract artist Cy Twombly, so I believe that the title comes from the movement of the brush strokes coming ‘off the canvas’ and brought to life in the movements of the dancers.

“I had not heard of the boxing reference, but I do like the idea that we at Grand Rapids Ballet were dealt a very difficult situation with Covid, but we have rebounded with spirit and energy to return to live performing this season.”

Off the Canvas features three different world-class choreographers “exploring art in motion, taking inspiration from the world of visual arts” — Adam Hougland, resident choreographer Penny Saunders, and Katarzyna Skarpetowska.

“The three choreographers in the Off the Canvas have a knack for moving the dancers around the stage in bold strokes the same way an artist might paint on a large canvas,” Sofranko said in supplied material.

Skarpetowska’s work, “Off the Canvas,” is set to music by Adrian Lim-Klumpes and Vivaldi. Saunders’ ballet, “In-Frame”, features music by Max Richter and explores the creative process cycle that coincides with Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Hougland’s ballet, “Cold Virtues”, is scored by Philip Glass, loosely based on “Dangerous Liaisons”, and follows a story of a power couple, moved to manipulate society for their own entertainment.

Music and dance, as always, blend on stage

Penny Saunders’ ballet, “In-Frame”, features music by Max Richter and explores the creative process cycle that coincides with Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. (Supplied/Ray Nard Imagemaker)

When it comes to the marriage of music and dance, ballet — all dance classic and modern really — has always been closely tied to music in the minds of choreographers, dancers and Sofranko (who is both).

“Music is often the reason we dance, so selecting a piece of music to choreograph to is a big first step (usually) in the process of creating a new dance,” Sofranko said to WKTV. “When I choreograph, I like to listen to a piece of music over and over until I know every measure and nuance by heart, and I use that knowledge as a sort of road map to create the steps.

“Certainly, you can also create a dance in silence, and then put music on top of it, or leave it without music too, but most of my favorite dances marry the music and the movement.  A choreographer can come up with an idea for a dance and then find music to go with it, or they may be inspired by a piece of music first and let that lead them to develop ideas for the dance. There is no right or wrong.”

When, were and how to see (and hear) Off The Canvas

Off the Canvas will be presented Friday to Sunday, Oct. 15-17. Tickets are available, starting at $32, online, via phone at 616-454-4771 ext. 10, or in-person at the ballet’s box office, at Grand Rapids Ballet’s home, 341 Ellsworth Ave SW, Grand Rapids. Season subscriptions are still available for the 2021-22 season, as are tickets for all its individual programs.

And having learned from its season of virtual performances, and community feedback, the Grand Rapids Ballet will also begin a “virtual season” subscription for those who wish to see the GR Ballet dancers “differently” or are unable to join in person.
 

Additional program details and performance dates and times can be found at grballet.com/2122season.

Katarzyna Skarpetowska’s work, “Off the Canvas,” is set to music by Adrian Lim-Klumpes and Vivaldi. (Supplied)

Documentary showcases West Michigan university’s efforts to stay open during pandemic

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The documentary “A New Normal” takes a look at how Ferris State University kept classes going through the pandemic. (Supplied)

WKTV Staff
kelly@wktv.org

As the world grapples with the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, Ferris State University stakeholders quickly collaborated to create a plan to keep campus safe and in operation after the state-wide stay at home order.

Nick Kuiper

The new documentary film from regional Emmy® Award winning filmmaker Nick Kuiper, “A New Normal,” features nearly 50 interviews with students, faculty, staff, and administrators as they share their experience during the pandemic. The film captures the stress of learning during a pandemic, the collaboration necessary to keep campus running, the creative problem solving necessary to keep stakeholders safe, and the challenges involved with quickly shifting classes online. A New Normal offers a roadmap of how one university utilized feedback from all their members to safely stay open.

One such story focuses on the Ferris Plastics program’s collaboration with Operation Face Shield. While campus shifted to online education, staff and faculty in the plastics program helped develop a mold for mass production of face shields and eventually creating over 40,000 face shields that were sent out across the globe.

Imagine being an excited student ready to embark on your first study abroad trip to Peru, when suddenly, in the middle of your excursion, the Peruvian government initiates a mandatory lockdown. A New Normal showcases the quick thinking of Ferris faculty as they rush to evacuate their students before being stuck in the country indefinitely.

 

Also hear from students and faculty in Biotechnology, as they quickly implement revolutionary wastewater testing technology to narrow in on COVID-19 clusters and stop outbreaks before it can spread around campus.

“A New Normal” will air on WKTV Channel 25 Oct. 13 at 2:30 p.m. and again on Oct. 14 at 10 :30 p.m. and Oct. 15 at noon.

 

Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum, 2021 General Election: City of Kentwood Mayor race

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted candidate forums for elections in the Wyoming and Kentwood area. Among them were the City of Kentwood Mayor Forum. The forums were produced through the facilities of WKTV Community Media.

The city’s mayoral seat is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. For a precinct and ward map, click here.

The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley and current Ward 1 Commissioner Emily Bridson.

The City of Kentwood Mayor Forum is on-demand on WKTVLive.org. It will also be televised on local cable television on WKTV Government 26, beginning Thursday, Oct. 14 at 8:30 p.m., and continuing Oct. 15 at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 16 at noon, and other dates. (Visit here for the WKTV cable channel schedule.)

For more information on the candidates in the City of Kentwood mayoral election, see this WKTV Journal story on the candidates’ We The People videos.

Kentwood opens fall leaf and brush drop-off, continues work with local landscaping, disposal companies

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A past pile of leaves at the City of Kentwood Department of Public Works as the city’s fall leaf and brush drop-off programs returns later this month. (City of Kentwood)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

As the City of Kentwood’s fall leaf and brush drop-off programs returns later this month, the Kentwood Department of Public Works continues its work to recycle much of what is dropped off by working with local businesses.

“The city works with landscaping and disposal companies to haul the leaves and brush away, which the contractors then use for composting and other recycled uses,” according to a statement from the pubic works department.

Starting Monday, Oct. 18, residents may drop off loose leaves, brush, sticks, tree limbs, logs and grass clippings at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.

A past pile at the City of Kentwood Department of Public Works as the city’s fall leaf and brush drop-off programs returns later this month. (City of Kentwood)

The drop-off services provide residents with a convenient way to keep their yards clear of leaves and debris, according to the statement. The accumulation of leaves and debris on a property or in the right-of-way is prohibited in the City of Kentwood, as is burning leaves and brush.

“We look forward to helping residents with their fall yard cleanup and making sure our roadways and storm drains remain clear of leaves and other tree debris this season,” Jim Wolford, Department of Public Works supervisor, said in supplied material. “The City of Kentwood is pleased to offer these services to our community in the spring and fall each year.”

Drop-off is available noon-8 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and noon-6 p.m., Sundays, through Dec. 5.

The services are available to Kentwood residents only, and proof of residency is required. Materials that cannot be accepted include trash, paper and plastic bags, dirt, concrete, asphalt, tires, rocks, stones, construction materials, glass and metal.

After closing for winter in December, both drop-off sites will reopen in the spring.

More information about the City’s leaf and brush drop-off services is available at kentwood.us/BrushLeafDropOff.

A short day’s drive — Kent County showcases colors, natural beauty of the county with 2021 Color Tour

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One highlight the 2012 Color Tour’s Eastern Kent County Route, and the three historical covered bridges in that area, is the Fallasburg Covered Bridge which is celebrating its 150-year anniversary. (Kent County Road Commission)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Road Commission knows the county’s rural roads really, really well. So who better to give residents advice on where to venture to parts of the county they might not normally think to explore our local annual color tour?

The county recently unveiled the first two routes of its annual color tour, with additional routes to be announced soon.

The road commission began producing the color tour in the 1950s and continued for over 30 years before being discontinued. While the reason for the suspension is not clear, the color tour was revived again in 2016 with much excitement and success.

“The Color Tour has really taken off in popularity over the past couple of years, so we definitely look to add new stretches for our repeat travelers,” Maura Lamoreaux, Communications Manager for the Kent County Road Commission (KCRC), said to WKTV.

Lamoreaux said that, while KCRC does make adjustments from year-to-year, the routes remain similar. The road commission tries to avoid any late-season construction and keeps a close eye on the project schedule. Part of the reason the tour routes are revealed in stages is not only to maximize an area’s particular peak color, but to make sure the roads are free of construction when possible.

One highlight the 2012 Color Tour’s Eastern Kent County Route, and the three historical covered bridges in that area, is the history Ada Covered Bridge. (Kent County Road Commission)

The initial KCRC list has chosen to highlight the Eastern Kent County Route and the three historical covered bridges in that area during the 2021 Color Tour, with the Fallasburg Covered Bridge holding a special place of honor as it celebrates its 150-year anniversary.

Similar to the Fallasburg Bridge, the Ada Covered Bridge and Whites Bridge were also constructed using Brown truss design, with all three bridges being built within four years of each other. While Fallasburg Covered Bridge and Whites Bridge are open to vehicular traffic, Ada Covered Bridge welcomes only pedestrian traffic.

The Western Kent County Color Tour Route showcases apple orchards and the fall harvest over 35 miles of road. Drivers must exercise caution as they may encounter slow-moving farm equipment moving from field to field, so patience is requested as motorists enjoy an unhurried drive.

The White Pine Trail is also accessible from the western route with miles of scenic enjoyment for cyclists and those wishing to participate in a leisurely stroll or nature hike.

The 2012 Color Tour road ways are filled with rural roads soon to be bursting with color. (Kent County Road Commission)

All routes provided by the KCRC can be driven individually for shorter trips or connected if a longer outing is desired. As day trippers enjoy the beautiful vistas and diverse topography throughout Kent County, they can stop at nearby public parks for nature walks and picnics or partake in the many other local stops and activities.

This fun and inexpensive outing is one that residents can enjoy alone or with family and friends, according to the road commission. KCRC also urges motorists to utilize the color tour as a way to visit parts of the county they have not yet seen.

“Personally speaking,” Lamoreaux said, “I threw my dog in the car and drove the entire color tour last year. We walked the parks and stopped for cider and donuts. I was simply amazed at the beauty of the county and how much fun it was to experience all corners of it.”

Kent County Road Commission hopes the color tour routes will help infuse a sense of pride for the gorgeous county that residents call home, and also for the road network that leads them to their destinations.

For more information on Kent County’s 2021 Fall Color Tour and maps detailing the various routes, visit here.

Embracing art, horticulture and education, Meijer Gardens newly expanded Wege library readies big plans

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Jess Hart, the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s director of education, discusses planned and possible educational programing available in the new Peter M. Wege Library and the unique public area outside its doors. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

There is a work of art on the grounds of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Bill Woodrow’s “Listening to History”, that speaks to many people about the importance of knowledge as much as it does the imagination of the artist. And the importance of knowledge is not lost on the visionaries at “The Gardens” as well.

 

As Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park laid out its ambitious expansion plans in 2017 much of the talk was about the new education center and the rooftop garden, the upgraded outdoor amphitheater and the crown jewel of the new “Welcome Center” entrance. All rightly so.

Bill Woodrow’s “Listening to History”, on display at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. (Supplied)

Tucked away in the design plans for the entrance, which opened early this year with a few pieces yet to be place — most notably the placement of Spanish artist Jaume Plensa’s Utopia — was the relocated and expanded Peter M. Wege Library.

But then again, education in general and art history resources in specific was important to Fred Meijer and continues to be important to the mission of the sculpture park named for him.

Located on the lower “Courtyard” level of the Welcome Center, along with “Mimi’s Garden”, a unique garden area seemingly located inside a glass terrarium, the library is intended to not only be a “go to” educational resource center but also a focal point for the Meijer Garden’s community and educational programming.

A scene from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s relocated and expanded Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

While the old library was nice — tucked into a corner just as you entered the old entrance building — both Jess Hart, director of education, and Shelly Kilroy, librarian and archivist, could barely contain their joy at the new space when WKTV visited recently.

“The thing I really enjoy most about it is that it is a space not only for information and learning but for curiosity,” Hart said to WKTV. “We have a really professional staff here at Meijer Gardens and wonderful volunteers, and guests are constantly asking those volunteers and staff questions about our collections and our gardens.

“But occasionally there is a question that a staff member or volunteer cannot answer. And in those instances we often encourage guests to come down to the library to find that information. It is wonderful to have that resource.”

And what a resource it is.

“We are used by the general public, researchers — particularly researchers of a particular artist — or someone who just wants to come in and browse,” Kilroy said to WKTV. “Also for our staff, for inspiration and research for their programs, especially the education staff and our sculpture staff. And, of course, volunteers as well, to learn more about all the Gardens has to offer.”

Library a key element in the expansion

Built using funds from the $115 million Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love capital campaign, the 69,000 square-foot Welcome Center of which the library is only a small but important part, was designed by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects/Partners.

And the importance of the library and adjacent space to the overall mission of Meijer Gardens was not lost on the internationally known building designers — nor was it to David Hooker, president of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

“Fred Meijer grew to truly enjoy contemporary art through education and the understanding of the principles behind much of the artwork he gave to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park,” Hooker said to WKTV. “The Peter M. Wege Library is a fantastic resource for information about our artwork and gardens. Making use of the Wege Library promotes understanding and appreciation.”

And how extensive is that resource?

Shelly Kilroy, librarian and archivist at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, in the Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The collection is approximately 4,500 books and magazines, Kilroy said. And they cover the spectrum of all of what makes Meijer Gardens famous in several ways.

“Some art history, primarily sculptures and sculptors, and then we also have a small poetry collection, actually. … But also plant and insect and bird identification books, and then plant care in general,” Kilroy said. “Also general (garden) design, if you want to design a Japanese garden or an English perennial garden, we have the books here.”

There are also books on using plants in cooking and crafts, she said, as well as a children’s collection — “so the kiddos can learn more.”

The focus, though, is the art and the artists, and the horticulture, represented at the gardens.

“Any of the artists, the sculptures we have here, there are resources in our collection about that artist and about the art we have here. If you want to learn more about sculpture, broadly, or about a specific sculpture we have here, you can come in and we are more than happy to help.”

  • An community area at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s relocated and expanded Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • A scene from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s relocated and expanded Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • A scene from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s relocated and expanded Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • A scene from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s relocated and expanded Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • A scene from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s relocated and expanded Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
  • A scene from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s relocated and expanded Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Present and (hopefully) future educational plans

Hart, the director of education, leads a department which oversees Meijer Gardens’ archives as well as library space. And she considers the library’s learning space to be both inside the Wege library and the community area adjacent.

Jess Hart, director of education at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, outside the Peter M. Wege Library. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“With that new space, we are able to support new programs as well,” she said. “We are really looking forward, in the future, to hosting our quarterly book groups here. Also some Sunday drop-in programs, and potentially our very popular Cozy Tales for Chilly Days for preschoolers and families. Which we can now hold in the library and in this beautiful seating area outside or the library as well.”

And while the current pandemic has led to some pauses in programming and restrictions on programming planned, Hard is hopeful.

“We are hoping to hold all our regular programing upcoming, but I think that remains to be seen with what happens with COVID this winter and any restrictions that may go into place,” she said. “A lot of our programs that are library centered are fairly small, so we do hope to be able to hold some of our story-time groups and some of our drop-in programming.”

For information on the Peter M. Wege Library visit here. For more information on Meijer Gardens educational programming visit here.

Kentwood Glow in the Park returns with fun run, Glow Dance Party and other themed activities

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The City of Kentwood will host a Glow in the Park event Saturday, Oct. 16. (City of Kentwood)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

In 2019 the City of Kentwood hosted its initial Glow in the Park 5K and the community liked it so much the upcoming Glow in the Park event, set for Saturday, Oct. 16, will feature more activities in addition to a fun run/walk, including games, crafts, music, food and dancing.

As always, however, community members are invited to “illuminate the night” — participants and supporters are encouraged to wear brightly colored and glow-in-the-dark clothes and accessories — for the event, taking place 7-9 p.m., at Pinewood Park, 1999 Wolfboro Drive SE.

Among the glow-themed activities planned are light-up playground games and crafts, music, food — and, of course, the self-timed fun run/walk.
 

Proceeds will help keep Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department’s youth programs affordable for all children to participate, have fun and learn with their peers, according to a city announcement. Donations also will be accepted during the event.

The City of Kentwood will host a Glow in the Park event Saturday, Oct. 16. (City of Kentwood)

“Ever since the great turnout we had for our first after-dark running event in 2019, we have been looking forward to offering another Glow in the Park night in Kentwood,” Spencer McKellar, lead recreation program coordinator, said in supplied material. “This time, we’re including a variety of additional activities to encourage all ages to dress up and join us outside with friends, neighbors and loved ones.

“In addition to being a fun way to soak up the fall weather before winter comes, our Glow in the Park event is also for a good cause — helping more families be able to participate in our youth programs.”

The “lighthearted” — pun intended — run/walk will start at 7:30 p.m., with on-site packet pickup beginning at 7 p.m. Participants can choose to do either a 0.3- or 1-mile run/walk along a park path that will be lit with glow sticks and other colorful lights. Volunteers in glow wear will also help light the way. A water station will be provided at the course start/finish line.

Light-up playground games and crafts, music and snacks will be available throughout the event. The fun run will be followed by an after-party with dancing. The evening will conclude at 9 p.m.

Two levels of registration are available online at kentwood.us/GlowInThePark. For entry to the event with a goody bag full of glow supplies, registration costs $5. For those who also want to take part in the fun run/walk, registration costs $20 and includes a goody bag, T-shirt and race medal.

The City of Kentwood will continue to monitor public health guidance and orders, which may require changes to events.

For more information on City of Kentwood event’s visit kentwood.us.

Muskegon Museum of Art opens contemporary art awards exhibition, plans appraisal fair

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2nd Place, “Under Siege”, by David Feingold. (Muskegon Museum of Art)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Friends of Art Award, “Rain After Dark”, by Carolyn Sowa of Caledonia. (Muskegon Museum of Art)

The Muskegon Museum of Art’s 92nd Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition this fall continues the museum’s “well-established legacy of showcasing the work of Michigan artists, from talented beginners to accomplished professionals in the longest running juried show of its kind in Michigan.”

The exhibit opened Sep. 23, with a public reception and awards program, and the show will be on display until Nov. 10. Also coming up at the museum is its annual Appraisal Fair fundraiser on Oct. 16. (See more information later in this story.)

“The (contemporary art) exhibition presents a look at the issues, themes, and materials inspiring today’s Michigan artists,” Art Martin, MMA Director of Collections and Exhibitions/Senior Curator, said in supplied material. “The artwork is meant to engage, challenge, and inspire conversation.”

Best of Show winner, “Kellie Looks Left”, by Bryan Hoffman of Saugatuck. (Muskegon Museum of Art)

Several west Michigan artists are among the artists honored and having their works on display.

The Best of Show winner, “Kellie Looks Left”, is by Bryan Hoffman of Saugatuck; Honorable Mentions of the exhibition include, “silenceINsojourn” by Ralph “Nunzi” Annunziata of Grand Rapids, and “Ebb and Flow” by Henry Droski of Grand Rapids.

The Curator’s Choice, “The Waters Began at Home,” is by Lee Ann Frame of Fruitport. The Friends of Art Award, “Rain After Dark”, is by Carolyn Sowa of Caledonia. The West Michigan Potters Guild Eleanore Smith Memorial Ceramics Award went to Jamey Limbers of Lowell (for Untitled #2), and the Docent’s Choice Award, “Desperate Times”, is by Nathan Margoni of Benton Harbor.

Juror (and artist) of exhibition

Juror Karen Hampton selected the works in the exhibition. Hampton is an internationally recognized conceptual artist whose work “addresses issues of colorism and kinship within the African American community,” according to the announcement.

Hampton is a weaver, dyer, painter, embroiderer, storyteller, and teacher whose work exhibits nationally and internationally. She taught at Howard University in Washington, D.C. from 2007-2011, and in 2017 was an assistant professor and Critical Race Issues Resident Artist at Michigan State University.
 

The Muskegon Museum of Art is located in downtown Muskegon at 296 W. Webster Ave. For more information visit muskegonartmuseum.org or by calling 231-720-2570. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays and closed Mondays.

MMA Appraisal Fair returns October 16

The Muskegon Museum of Art will host its returning (usually annual) Appraisal Fair on Saturday, Oct.16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appraisers from DuMouchelles Art Galleries in Detroit will be at the event to evaluate collectibles, jewelry, art, and antiques. DuMouchelles appraisers combine decades of professional experience in many areas and have regularly appeared on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow.

Director’s Choice. “Dream Lake Sunset”, by Peter Blackburn. (Muskegon Museum of Art)

The event provides an opportunity to help participants decide if a formal appraisal (apart from this event) should be sought for high-value items.

All proceeds benefit the Muskegon Museum of Art.

Appraisals will be available by advance-ticket reservations only as the system should decrease wait times and crowding. The cost is $30 per item for non-MMA member ($20 per item for members) and tickets are available at the Museum Store counter or by calling 231-720-2580.

Each ticket includes a 10-minute verbal evaluation for one item, one museum admission, and free coffee and cookies. Ticket holders must check in at Museum Store upon arrival. Customers will receive notification of their turn with a text message from museum staff.

County animal shelter one of many local animal welfare groups part of Bissell’s ‘Empty the Shelters’ campaign

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Kent County Animal Shelter’s Angela Hollinshead with “George” — who has since found a home. But there are many more like George awaiting. (KC Animal Shelter)

By D.A. Reed, WKTV Contributing Writer

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Animal Shelter’s staff members are always enthusiastic about participating in the Bissell Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” fall event, which starts next week, not only for the funding provided to support the adoption event but also for the publicity to make people aware of the event.

But they also know there is always a need for sheltering needy animals, and a year-around need to support current and possible future animal lovers in finding their perfect housemates.

“Bissell is wonderful in that they provide all the resources shelters need through media sites to make people aware of the event, as well as funding it,” Angela Hollinshead, division director of the Kent County Animal Shelter, said to WKTV. But “we will always need adopters. There will always be a need for people willing to adopt the pets that come through our door.”

Who could resist? (KC Animal Shelter)

The Bissell Pet Foundation’s fall national “Empty the Shelters” adoption event, running Oct. 4-10, is a quarterly effort that has helped more than 61,787 pets in shelters find their “forever homes” by sponsoring reduced adoption fees for $25 or less. This fall’s event will be hosted in more than 180 shelters in 38 states, including about 11 in West Michigan, including the Kent County Animal Shelter.

Founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, Bissell Pet Foundation began its “Empty the Shelters” campaign in 2016 by sponsoring adoptions across the country and in Canada.

“Shelters are in dire need of support in the wake of natural disasters and overcrowding due to obstacles such as increased length of stay and slowed adoptions for mid-to-large sized dogs,” Bissell said in supplied material. “Our fall ‘Empty the Shelters’ will support the adoption of thousands of pets across the country, helping shelters in this time of crisis. Opening your home to a shelter pet will save a life and create space to give another pet a chance.”

Among the participating West Michigan shelters are Al-Van Humane Society, Crash’s Landing, Faithful to Felines, Harbor Humane Society, Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven, Humane Society of West Michigan, SPCA of Southwest Michigan, Van Buren County Animal Control and Wishbone Pet Rescue Alliance.

Because every shelter is not participating for the full event, potential adopters are encouraged to visit the “Empty Shelters” website to find the nearest participating shelter and confirm their adoption day details.

Animal rescue, adoption efforts are year-round

“The pets who come to us are not broken or damaged, oftentimes coming to us through circumstances that are no fault of their own,” Hollinshead said. “We have met some truly wonderful animals.”

While the pet intake numbers fluctuate from month-to-month, Hollinshead said that they take in approximately 142 animals per month.

Need a little, or big, companion while working from home? Kent County Animal Shelter may have a perfect match awaiting. (KC Animal Shelter)

“These events help us a lot because we don’t turn away stray animals,” she said. “The reduced adoption fee helps us find homes for pets who have been here longer.”

Since 2019, Hollinshead has also noted a 48 percent decrease in pets coming into the shelter due to resources they are now able to offer current pet owners. Some of the resources available include spaying and neutering, food resources, and a behavior specialist who can help pet owners with training for their animals.

“These options allow us to focus more on each individual pet and its needs and provide better outcomes,” Hollinshead said.

If an individual or family is not able to adopt, Hollinshead also encourages community members to consider fostering shelter animals, volunteering at the shelter, and raising awareness of the need for continued help from the community.

Located on Fuller Avenue in Grand Rapids, the Kent County Animal Shelter will be participating for the full duration of the event, Oct. 4-9. Potential adopters may contact the shelter at 616-632-7300 if they have any questions.

For more information on BISSELL Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” fall event, visit here.

County’s Sustainable Business Park, designed to avoid landfill use, gets $4 million in state funding

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Kent County Land for planned Sustainable Business Park, aerial shot that includes the property adjacent to the landfill, with the landfill in the background. (Supplied/Kent County)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Kent County’s efforts to reduce use of landfills has gained a big vote of support — in the form of a $4 million state allocation — as the county’s Department of Public Works announced this week that its Sustainable Business Park plans will now have initial funding for infrastructure improvements.

The Sustainable Business Park, planned for 250 acres adjacent to the South Kent Landfill in Byron Center, will be built on land that was initially purchased by Kent County to create a new landfill for Kent and Allegan counties. The goal of the park plan is to attract businesses which will lessen landfill use by diverting waste streams.

Trash being dumped at the Kent County landfill. (Supplied/Kent County)

For a WKTV story when the Sustainable Business Park was initially announced visit here. For a WKTV Journal In Focus video interview with Dar Baas, director of the Kent County Department of Public Works, discussing the Sustainable Business Park visit here.

The state funding will go toward infrastructure improvements on the site such as utilities, roads and stormwater to prepare it for initial tenants. The first phase of infrastructure development is estimated to cost $19 million, according to the county.

“The state investment in this important project will vastly reduce Kent County’s landfill usage and contribute to a circular economy, ,” Baas said in supplied material. “Landfills are not the legacy anyone wants to leave for future generations and this investment is an acknowledgement that we’re on the right path toward a more sustainable future.”

The $4 million coming to Kent County is an appropriation in the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) budget. The Michigan Legislature approved a $69.9 billion fiscal year 2022 state budget last week.
 

“We want to thank our elected leaders,” Baas said, “including state Reps. Thomas Albert, R-Lowell, and Bryan Posthumus, R-Cannon Township, and state Sens. Winnie Brinks, D-Grand Rapids, and Aric Nesbitt, R-Lawton, for their support of this project and moving us closer to our landfill diversion goals.”

Approved in 2018, the Sustainable Business Park Master Plan lays out a vision for transitioning away from landfilling waste in favor of placing value on components of the waste as feedstock for new products or fuel sources, according to the county announcement.

The Master Plan calls for an anchor tenant that will receive the mixed waste currently going to the landfill and separate it for secondary and tertiary tenants to utilize. The state funding will lay the foundation for additional private investment in the entire park.

Kent County Health Department now offering COVID-19 Pfizer booster shots

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A Kent County Health Department nurse gives a COVID-19 vaccination shot. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Health Department announced this week that it will begin making Pfizer BioNtech COVID-19 booster shots available to eligible individuals on Tuesday, Sept. 28, at all three health department clinic locations.

County clinic locations and hours can be found here. Appointments can be made by calling 616-632-7200; persons may also use this number to schedule a first dose of vaccine for those who have not already had it.

“Note that these boosters are only for people who have received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine. We expect other boosters from other manufacturers to be coming soon,” according to the announcement. “In the meantime KCHD continues to strongly encourage anyone who has not yet received a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine to do so as soon as possible.”

The Kent County Health Department (KCHD) action follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently recommending a booster shot of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in certain populations and for those in high risk occupational and institutional settings. This recommendation only applies to people who originally received both doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least 6 months ago.

The CDC recommends the following groups should receive a booster: people 65 years and older, residents in long-term care settings aged 18 years or older, and people aged 50-64 years with underlying medical conditions.

Additionally, the CDC recommends that the following groups “may” receive a booster based on their individual benefits and risks: people aged 18-49 years with underlying medical conditions, people aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of their occupational or institutional (residential) setting. (This groups includes adults aged 18-64 years who work or reside in settings such as health care, schools, congregant care facilities, correctional facilities, or homeless shelters. This group also includes front line essential workers such as first responders — firefighters, police, and EMS — as well as food and agriculture workers, manufacturing workers, U.S. Postal Service workers, public transit workers, and grocery store workers.)

The county health announcement also states that after reviewing data in the coming weeks, the CDC is expected to make recommendations about the Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines.

Booster vice ‘third dose’ difference explained

In the meantime, there have been reports about a “third dose” of the COVID vaccine that is now available. The third dose is different than a booster and has been approved by the FDA and recommended by the CDC specifically and exclusively for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised. These individuals have a medical condition or are on a medication that limits the strength of their immune systems and, therefore, they may not receive the same level of protection from a regular course of vaccination.

People who are immunocompromised may receive a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer vaccine as soon as 28 days after the second dose. There is no additional dose of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine currently recommended.

“Again, the third dose should not be confused with a booster,” according to the county announcement. “A vaccine booster is an additional shot that is given to previously vaccinated people as the immunity provided by the original dose(s) has started to decrease over time. A booster is administered to help maintain the level of immunity in the future.”

Special forces: West Michigan non-profit to hold benefit comedy night to support American hero

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Jaeger, and The Jaeger Foundation founder Jonathon Jacobs. The non-profit works to provide services dogs like Jaeger to other veterans. (The Jaeger Foundation)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

What West Michigander James McCloughan went thorough in Vietnam in 1969-70 was no laughing matter — and he has the scars and Congressional Medal of Honor to prove it.

But local non-profit The Jaeger Foundation will be holding a “Special Farces” comedy night Oct. 8 in Muskegon to help provide McCloughan with a service dog as part of the foundation’s continuing efforts to provide service dogs to veterans and first responders who need them.

James McCloughan is presented the Congressional Medal of Honor for service in Vietnam — specifically in the May 13-15, 1969, battle of Tam Kỳ  and the Nui Yon Hill — by then Secretary of Defense James Mattis (U.S. Defense Department)

“Mr. McCloughan is a true American Hero,” Jonathon Jacobs, chief executive officer of The Jaeger Foundation, said to WKTV. “He was an Army Medic in Vietnam. Mr. McCloughan took two blasts of shrapnel to his back and was shot through the arm and still never quit and kept going back for more wounded.”

The Jaeger foundation was born out of a need to provide service dogs to veterans and first responders suffering from PTSD and other disabilities, Jacobs said. And the planned comedy night is one of many ways the foundation raises money to do so.

 

One event is the Special Farces Comedy Competition, which will be held at Back Alley Comedy Club in Muskegon, Oct. 8, at 8 p.m. Tickets are available on the Back Alley Comedy Club website at backalleycomedyclub.com and the event page on Facebook.

The night will feature 9 stand up comics, battling head-to-head for the title of “Funniest Comedian”, as well as other prizes. The night will also include a 50/50 raffle and silent auction. The Jaeger Foundation also has t-shirts and decals on their website to raise funds to pay for the purchase and training of the service dogs.

For Jacobs, the goals of the foundation — even the foundation’s name — is personal.

Jaeger, at rest. (The Jaeger Foundation)

“The foundation was created in 2019 after going through to the journey to get my own service dog,” Jacobs said. “Naturally the foundation was named after my Service Dog, Jaeger.  After reaching out to many programs, and not fitting within the limits of their program, we decided to start the foundation with the goal of getting service dogs in the hands of veterans and first responders with as little red tape as possible. So far we’ve helped about 15 People to receive service dogs at no charge to them.”

And “Mr. McCloughan” certainly deserves a service dog for all he has done, during wartime when he earned his Medal of Honor, and for what he has done for the community in West Michigan.

McCloughan was born in South Haven in 1946, was a four-sport varsity athlete at Bangor High School and went on to wrestle and play football and baseball at Olivet College. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and a teaching certificate in 1968, he accepted a teaching and coaching position with South Haven Public Schools. Three months later, McCloughan was drafted into the U.S. Army at the age of 22.

James McCloughan with a military dog in Vietnam, likely dated 1969. (U.S. Defense Department)

His service in Vietnam — specifically in the May 13-15, 1969, battle of Tam Kỳ  and the Nui Yon Hill, which earned him his Medal of Honor — was nothing less than heroic. And deserves a completely separate story. (Which is detailed here.)

Following his service in Vietnam, McCloughan returned to his teaching and coaching profession. In 1972, he earned a Master of Arts in counseling and psychology from Western Michigan University, and then taught sociology and psychology at South Haven high until his retirement in 2008 earning him the Michigan Education Associations’ 40 years of Service Award.

He was also the recipient of the Wolverine Conference Distinguished Service Award for 38 years of coaching football and baseball in addition to 22 years of coaching wrestling.

He was inducted into the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1993, Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 2003 and the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame 2008. McCloughan was also a Michigan High School Athletic Association wrestling official for 25 years.

For more information on The Jaeger Foundation visit here.

Kentwood’s The Vibe offered inspiration, information about unique adaptive recreation

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Kentwood resident Brad Dion talks to the crowd at the City of Kentwood’s The Vibe event recently. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Kentwood and West Michigan community, both those involved in and those who support the city’s Adaptive Recreation Programs, turned out as the city’s Parks and Recreation Department put on its “The Vibe” event recently.

The annual celebration and fundraiser, held Sept. 16 at the city’s Kent District Library branch, was a night of inspiration — especially the story of guest speaker Brad Dion — as well as a chance to mix with like-minded people supporting the goals and continuation of local adaptive recreation programs such as waterskiing and indoor rock climbing.

(WKTV informational videos on the various programs, produced with the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department for TheVibe event, are linked at the bottom of this story.)

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department team supporting the Adaptive Recreation at September’s The Vibe event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Adaptive Recreation Program coordinator Ann Przybysz talked to WKTV at the event about the importance and uniqueness of the program — “The program serves those typically underserved in other recreation programs. We appreciate offering very inclusive programs.”

However, the highlight of the event, other than the money raised for a special need for the adaptive recreation water skiing program, was clearly Dion talking about his life, his efforts to overcome disability, and his passion for helping others to overcome — to thrive — however disabled.

“I like to call it a different ability,” Dion told the gathering from his wheelchair. “I don’t know what the future will hold, but I do know I will continue to be involved with these programs. Continue to teach wheelchair tennis to Kentwood parks and rec kids. To be involved.”

(See his complete talk, recorded by WKTV, above. And you can follow him on Facebook and Instagram.)

 

Dion, a longtime Grand Rapids resident and East Kentwood High School graduate, shared his life experiences of living with cerebral palsy, accomplishing goals and giving back to his community.

As a wheelchair athlete, Dion enjoys competing in wheelchair tennis. He also loves to mentor and coach wheelchair sports to kids with disabilities. While he spends his days inside the classroom teaching fifth- and sixth-grade general education as well as supporting special education. He has learned to use his life story, living with a “different ability,” to show others that “the sky’s truly the limit when it comes to what someone can do if they set their mind to it.”

Funds raised at this year’s event will go toward purchasing new jet skis for Kentwood’s adaptive water ski program — essential safety equipment as staff must be able to get to participants very quickly if necessary. The program includes various adaptive water ski clinics offered by the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with community partners.

Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department program coordinator Katelyn Bush and one of her Adaptive Recreation participants at September’s The Vibe event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming, according to supplied material, and does so in partnership with community partners such as Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and dozens of volunteers.

Adaptive programs available include archery, bike club, boccia league, bowling, canoeing, downhill skiing, golf league, leisure club, kayaking, rock climbing, track and field clinics, pickleball, wake boarding and water skiing, along with dances and other social events.

Open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond, the programs enable participants to enjoy the benefits that come with any athletic or recreational activity, such as a sense of camaraderie, improved confidence and new skills.

To learn about current offerings, visit kentwood.us/adaptive.

Videos of various programs

Adaptive Archery

Adaptive Kayaking

Adaptive Snow Skiing

Adaptive Rock Climbing

Adaptive Water Skiing

GR YMCA’s Veggie Vans bring fresh food, healthy ideas to Kentwood, West Michigan residents

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The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids’ Veggie Vans offer up not only fresh farmers market food but also heathy advice and information. (YMCA GR)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Most people think of the YMCA as being focused on healthy bodies through exercise, programs and classes. Yes, but healthy eating is also a key part of promoting healthy bodies.

On Monday, Sept. 27, residents of Kentwood’s Tamarisk Apartments will gain the opportunity for both healthy food and healthy ideas when they get a visit from one of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids’ Veggie Vans as part of its ongoing regional tour of Y’s new community program.

On board the van will not only be fresh, healthy food but also information on other YMCA efforts, and available social programs, designed to help underserved residents live a more health lifestyle.

The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids’ new Veggie Vans offer up fresh produce and other healthy foods. (YMCA GR)

“Eating healthy is a critical part to having a healthy body,” Belisa Melton, GR YMCA community collaborations director, said to WKTV. “That is why the Veggie Van also promotes the YMCA’s Healthy Corner Stores initiative, which connects small-scale growers and distributors with urban corner stores to increase the fresh fruits and vegetables to households across West Michigan.

“The goal is to bring healthier and more affordable food options to communities that often have limited fresh options by making local produce more readily available at neighborhood markets.”

And the is just part of the YMCA’s offerings.

“The Veggie Van also provides visitors with opportunities to learn about and engage with the YMCA’s free community fitness programs and nutrition education classes,” Melton said.

The Veggie Van will also serve up conversation and education about how to use the produce or benefits such as Double Up Food Bucks or SNAP.

“The knowledge of these programs and the opportunity to learn more from a trusted resource is important,” according to a recent YMCA announcement.

The Veggie Van’s September schedule for Kentwood-Wyoming includes a stop at Tamarisk Apartments, 4520 Bowen Blvd. SE, Kentwood, from 10-11 a.m., Monday, Sept. 27.

Goal: fresh veggies; fresh ideas

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, knowing farmers markets are a summer favorite for many West Michigan residents but not everyone has access to one, developed the Veggie Van as the region’s first mobile farmers market.

The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids’ new Veggie Vans offer up fresh produce and other healthy foods. (YMCA GR)

The YMCA Veggie Van delivers locally grown, top-quality fruits and vegetables at cost directly to apartment complexes, senior living facilities and other locations in Grand Rapids and Muskegon, according to the recent announcement. The Veggie Van’s two vehicles run year-round, making stops in neighborhoods to provide “vulnerable communities with access to locally sourced produce when in season or sourced from local grocers.”

 

On a weekly basis, the YMCA supplements local produce suppliers to stock the vans by growing its own produce in a greenhouse and in raised beds at the Mary Free Bed YMCA branch.

Access to healthy, fresh food continues to be a significant issue for community members across the region, according to the announcement. While the pandemic has heightened awareness for the food deserts in our communities, the critical need for food security existed prior and continues now. Access to quality food can lead to improved work and school performance, healthy bodies and minds and stronger communities all while preventing chronic disease.

“The Veggie Van is a physical representation of health, wellness and community building,” Nicole Hansen, district executive director of community engagement and youth development, said in supplied material. “Through the availability of nutritious food, our teams help create access and success for those seeking to improve healthy habits.
 

“We believe strongly in building positive experiences with fruits and vegetables that lead to the consistent consumption of healthy meals by individuals and families throughout all neighborhoods in West Michigan.”
 

The YMCA Veggie Van is sponsored by the David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation, Spectrum Health, Nelson Neighborhood Association and The Mart Dock.

For more information on the YMCA’s Healthy Corner Stores program visit grymca.org/healthy-corner-stores.

For more information on the YMCA’s community fitness and nutrition education classes visit grymca.org/community-group-fitness and grymca.org/community-programs.

‘New Grass’ legend Sam Bush and his band kick off St. Cecilia’s ’21-22 folk series

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Sam Bush and his band will be St. Cecilia Music Center in October. (Supplied/SCMC)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Call it what you will — Folk, Americana, blue grass or new grass — mandolin master Sam Bush has played ‘em all and played with ‘em all.

And Bush will bring his new band to Grand Rapids Oct. 6 as St. Cecilia Music Center kicks off its 2021-22 season of return-to-live performances by folk, jazz and chamber music artists.

Mandolin virtuoso Bush will usher in a new season of the Acoustic Café Folk Series, with the concert starting at 7:30 p.m., after a drought of live concerts with a live audience during a 19-month closure caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tickets for Sam Bush are available at scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.

Sam Bush.(Courtesy of the artist)

Sam Bush has released seven albums over the past two decades, but his fame is rightly grounded in his live performances with the “who’s who” of Americana and bluegrass. Punch Brothers, Steep Canyon Rangers, and Greensky Bluegrass are just a few present-day bluegrass vanguards among so many musicians he’s influenced.

In 2009, the Americana Music Association awarded him the Lifetime Achievement Award for Instrumentalist.

 

“With this band I have now, I am free to try anything,” Bush said in supplied material. “Looking back at the last 50 years of playing “new grass”, with the elements of jazz improvisation and rock-n-roll, jamming, playing with New Grass Revival, Leon, and Emmylou; it’s a culmination of all of that. … I can unapologetically stand onstage and feel I’m representing those songs well.”

St. Cecilia’s deep, impressive folk series lineup

After the Sam Bush concert Wednesday, Oct. 6, the St. Cecilia Muisc Center’s Acoustic Café Folk Series just does not stop through the fall, winter and into spring 2022.

This fall, Rodney Crowell is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 12; Leo Kottke on Friday, Nov. 19; the Milk Carton Kids on Thursday, Dec. 2; and Watkins Family Hour on Thursday, Dec. 16.

“During this coming season we will be featuring most of the artists who were scheduled to appear last season and had to be sidelined due to COVID-19,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive and artistic director, said in supplied material. “These great artists are looking forward to getting back out on tour to perform in front of live audiences and to bring music back to concert stages in the U.S. and worldwide. … (And) we so missed seeing our loyal supporters and music lovers in person.”

Things really get cookin’ in the Acoustic Café in 2022 as well, starting with local fave May Erlewine on Thursday, Feb. 17 — if you didn’t catch Erlewine’s late 2019 socially/politically charged release “Second Sight”, which was unjustly lost in the shuffle of the pandemic, you missed one of the best local releases in years.

Following Erlewine, Shawn Colvin will make a much-delayed return on Thursday, May 12; followed by the incomparable Judy Collins on Wednesday, May 18.

Special note: as of this day/time, SCMC will require proof of fully vaccinated status, or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours, to attend a concert at the SCMC venue. Attendees need to bring photo ID and proof of vaccination, or a negative test, the night of a concert.

 

Also, given the current pandemic status, SCMC also “highly recommends” that all attendees wear a mask while in the building.

“We will continue to monitor the COVID environment and may change policies at any time if necessary,” according to a SCMC statement. “Please note that individual artists may issue mandated mask requirements and we will honor their request.”

All ticket holders will be notified if mandatory mask requirements are in effect for a particular show by an artist. If you a have tickets to an upcoming performance and are unwilling or unable to abide by this policy, please contact the SCMC box office for a refund at kelly@scmc-online.org a minimum of 48 hours prior to the concert date.

For complete information on all shows at St. Cecilia, visit SCMC-online.org.



Exploring the possibilities: GR Ballet School expands program for children with disabilities

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A scene from the Grand Rapids Ballet School Explorer Dance Program’s adaptive dance class. (Supplied/GRBS)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The Grand Rapids Ballet School, the educational branch of Grand Rapids Ballet, recently announced an expansion of its Explorer Dance Program, a 45-minute beginning-level ballet class that emphasizes balance, coordination, and creative expression for children with disabilities.

The ballet school’s Explorer Dance Program continues at the Meijer Royce Center for Dance in downtown Grand Rapids, but will now return to Holland community with classes held at Hope College’s DeVos Fieldhouse after a 16-month hiatus due to the pandemic.

“I feel fortunate that we can once again offer the Explorer Dance classes,” school director Attila Mosolygo said in supplied material. “There’s a need for this type of class and we take great pride in being able to fill that need because these kids benefit from it.”

A scene from the Grand Rapids Ballet School Explorer Dance Program’s adaptive dance class. (Supplied/GRBS)

The Explorer Dance is part of the Grand Rapids Ballet School (GRBS) Adaptive Dance Program, which is focused on “the therapeutic power of dance for participants of all abilities to experience the joy of dance,” according to the announcement.

Among the many benefits of participation in Explorer Dance, students will interact with other children in their class, and build a sense of community and belonging. Mosolygo added that in addition to the camaraderie students feel, ballet also offers many therapeutic qualities.

“It’s great for people to recognize that dance can be part of everyday life. It’s very calming,” he said. “Our students feel great coming out of the class.”

The Explorer Dance program in Grand Rapids is returning to in-person classes for the fall semester following a year of virtual learning the previous school year. The Holland Explorer Dance classes are re-launching after more than a one-year break.

“There has always been overwhelming positivity in the Explorer Dance class,” Taryn Streasick, GRBS faculty member, said in supplied material. “All they wanted was to be back in person and see each other again.”

The Explorer Dance classes at both locations offer students the chance to interact one-on-one with the teacher in a hands-on environment that provides an opportunity to focus on learning. Students are able to discover their abilities and strengths while working to improve balance and hand-eye coordination.

“The students love being able to move and dance together,” Streasick said. “They build each other up and they help each other by encouraging one another.”

The fall semester runs through Jan. 22, 2022. Classes take place Monday evenings in Grand Rapids and Tuesday evenings in Holland.

For more information about the Grand Rapids Ballet School visit grballet.com.

For more information and to enroll in a Grand Rapids Ballet Schools’ Adaptive Dance program, visit grballet.com.

Meijer Gardens to provide a flora feast for autumn eyes with fall mum (and more) exhibition

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The beauty of fall is on display with Chrysanthemums & More! at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. (Supplied/by Johnny Quirin)

By D.A. Reed

WKTV Contributing Writer

As West Michigan enters the fall season, the local community can enjoy an annual floral feast — an exhibition that literally spans thousands of blossoms across 158 sprawling acres.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is presenting its fall horticulture exhibition, Chrysanthemums & More!, opening to the public Sept. 17 and on display through Oct.31. The largest of its kind in Michigan, the exhibition not only features expansive displays of chrysanthemums and fall foliage, it also offers family-friendly activities.

“This year’s theme for Chrysanthemums & More! is Autumn Glow,” Steve LaWarre, Vice President of Horticulture, said in supplied material. “We hope that guests will notice how the low light of autumn softens textures and cast long shadows and see how some leaves and plants appear as if they are glowing from within, illuminating fall’s beauty.”

Chrysanthemums & More! at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a flower show and so much more. (Supplied/by Johnny Quirin)

Outdoor pathways offer a treat for your senses, allowing you to peruse various gardens aglow with vibrant fall plantings while breathing the crisp fall air. Be sure to pay attention to changes in texture, hue, and mood as you move from the intensity of sun-filled spaces to the understated low light of autumn afternoons.

Stunning displays are also available for viewing indoors, with a notable and exciting weekly change in the BISSELL Corridor as different local floral designers create a singular arrangement highlighting the chrysanthemum as its primary element.

Other activities offered during the horticulture exhibition include local gourd art, The Fall Bonsai Show, music and dancing, and Hallowee-ones.

Chrysanthemums & More! at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a flower show and so much more. (Supplied/by Johnny Quirin)

Starting off will be the Herb & Gourd Fest on Sept. 18-19. Participants will discover many ways to use herbs and gourds at this event, including how to create gourd art using locally available supplies.

Tuesdays at the Farm will occur Sept. 28 and Oct. 5 and feature the James & Shirley Balk Café pop-up with fresh local fare, West Michigan beer, and an adult cocktail. Dance to local music in the barn and enjoy an Autumn Glow display featured at Michigan’s Farm Garden.

For young visitors, Oct. 22 boasts Hallowee-ones, a special event designed for your “wee ones” from 10 a.m. to noon, with a parade at 10:15 a.m. Children are encouraged to be creative and dress as a sculpture, fish or flower, or in any other way that highlights the Children’s Garden. No tricks. No treats. Just fun!

All exhibition programming activities are included with admission. For a full listing of events visit https://www.meijergardens.org/.

Calvin’s Covenant Fine Arts Center opens eclectic fall concert season with Andy Shauf

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An Evening with Dawes is coming to Calvin University’s Covenant Fine Arts Center. (Supplied by the band)

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Covenant Fine Arts Center at Calvin University is known for being a great venue for live music as well as being a place to see acts the “college crowd” is getting into these days.

A prime example is Andy Shauf — whose “The Neon Skyline” recent release has gained praise from the likes of Pitchfork, NPR Music and The Atlantic, with NPR calling him “A gifted singer-songwriter. More than that, a gifted storyteller.” Shauf opens the center’s fall 2021 season with a concert this week.

Local faves The Accidentals is coming to Calvin University’s Covenant Fine Arts Center. (Supplied by the band)

But Shauf’s visit is just the beginning: on Sept. 25, the center will present An Evening with Dawes, with West Michigan favorite The Accidentals (with Sawyer Fredericks) coming Oct. 9, David Ramirez on Oct. 20, Joy Oladokun on Oct. 28, and Major Murphy on Nov. 5.

While Dawes is no stranger to the national stage — remember “Time Spent in Los Angeles” and “All Your Favorite Bands”? Yes you do …  And Traverse City’s own The Accidentals is no stranger to the local area (although the will be a special show with a new release coming out this fall), some of the other names may be new to people.

Bur probably not to the Calvin “college crowd.”

The Calvin’s Covenant Fine Arts Center shows are open to the public. Some performers may may require specific audience guidelines — Shauf required all concert attendees to wear a mask while inside the venue and show proof of vaccination (with the final shot at least two weeks before the concert date) or a negative COVID test from the last 72 hours.

For more information on concerts at calvin.universitytickets.com/w/.

Kentwood’s adaptive recreation celebration (and support) night to have more ‘casual vibe’ this year

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The City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs, part of the city’s Park and Recreation Department programing, includes summertime water skiing. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

There are many reasons to attend “The Vibe,” the City of Kentwood’s community event this week to raise awareness and funds for the city’s Adaptive Recreation Programs.

Yes, it is a fundraiser — this year with the proceeds going to keep its adaptive waterskiing program even more participant-safety focused. But, also, it is a chance for the general public and program participants to mix and learn about the program and its importance to the community.

But this years event — on Thursday, Sept. 16, at the city’s Kent District Library branch — will have a much more “casual vibe” than in some past years.

“This years Vibe has a totally different feel than in years past,” Katelyn Bush, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator, said to WKTV. “It’s going to be more like a backyard barbecue. It is more informal … and is also going to be outside. It is like just hanging out with your friends. … It is going to have more of a casual vibe.”

And there will be some great new friends to be made at the “backyard barbecue,” for community members who want to support the programs and for program participants.

The City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs includes summertime water skiing for all ages. (WKTV)

“The vibe is a fundraiser but it is also a celebration of what our department does for our community, specifically our adaptive recreation population,” Bush said. “We invite many of our participants that are involved with the programs and their families, so many of our athletes can come and be ambassadors for the program. They can answer questions and share their experiences.”

The Vibe will be held 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE. It will include food and cocktails, live music by Main Street Dueling Pianos, a silent auction, adaptive equipment displays and yard games.

The evening also will feature guest speaker Brad Dion, a longtime Grand Rapids resident and East Kentwood High School graduate, who will “share his life experiences of living with cerebral palsy, accomplishing goals and giving back to his community,” according to supplied material.

As a wheelchair athlete, Dion enjoys competing in wheelchair tennis. He also loves to mentor and coach wheelchair sports to kids with disabilities. He spends his days inside the classroom teaching fifth and sixth grade general education as well as supporting special education.

“We are grateful to have Brad Dion share his story at this year’s event,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “We welcome the community to join us to hear his journey and learn more about the value of inclusive recreational opportunities.”

Tickets for the casual-attire event are $40 per person, and tickets are still available. They can be purchased online at KentwoodVibe.com or by calling 616-656-5270.

(The City of Kentwood will continue to monitor public health guidance and orders, which may require changes to events. Residents are encouraged to follow current public health guidelines to help stop the spread of COVID-19.)

Water skiing is fundraising focus this year

Funds raised at this year’s event will go toward the city’s adaptive water ski program. The program includes various adaptive water ski clinics offered by the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department in partnership with community partners. Kentwood also offers its own “Sibs Clinic” once a year, where friends and family members are encouraged to ski with their loved one with a disability.

The City of Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs includes summertime water skiing, which requires extensive safety support. (WKTV)

The clinics give youth and adults of all abilities an opportunity to experience water skiing “in a positive and safe environment with the help of trained staff and volunteers,” and equipment designed for individuals with cognitive or physical challenges.

That “safe environment” is, as always, a focus of the adaptive recreation staff and the programs they offer.

“The funds raised at this year’s event will go to purchase two new jet skis for our adaptive water ski program,” Bush said to WKTV, “These two watercraft are essential to the program. … They trail the skiers and many of our skiers have pretty severe physical limitations. So once they are in the water, their safety is really our responsibility and our top priority.”

If the skiers hit a wave or they fall off, those two jet skies have a trained person riding on the back to get to the skiers “in just a matter of seconds.” … We have to have that ability or we cannot run the program safety.”

Many adaptive recreation programs offered

“We offer a variety of adaptive recreation programs to meet the interests of all individuals — from those who enjoy relaxing leisure opportunities all the way to the biggest thrill seekers,” Bush said in supplied material.

Katelyn Bush, Kentwood’s recreation program coordinator. (WKTV)

“Because water sports are high-adrenaline activities, they are a great way for people to get out of their comfort zone, enjoy the rush of going fast and feel the wind in their hair. It’s no surprise we have a waiting list each summer.”

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department provides Michigan’s most comprehensive adaptive recreation programming in partnership with community partners such as Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, Hope Network and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and dozens of volunteers, according to supplied material.

Adaptive programs include archery, bike club, boccia league, bowling, canoeing, downhill skiing, golf league, leisure club, kayaking, rock climbing, track and field clinics, pickleball, wake boarding and water skiing, along with dances and other social events.

The Vibe event will have stations where some of our adaptive equipment will be displayed, where educational information will be available — “Who might use it, why they might use it,” Bush said. “This is an opportunity for conversation and curiosity, and support for these programs. It’s a party. It’s an educational opportunity. It is just a unique way to connect to the community.”
 

Open to individuals of all abilities in Kentwood and beyond, the programs enable participants to enjoy the benefits that come with any athletic or recreational activity, such as a sense of camaraderie, improved confidence and new skills.

To learn about current offerings of the Kentwood’s Adaptive Recreation Programs, visit kentwood.us/adaptive.

After official ribbon cutting, new administrator takes leadership of Michigan Veteran Homes GR

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Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, center, was among the “ribbon cutting” team at the grand opening of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, (Michigan Veteran Homes)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

There was a long list of dignitaries, led by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, on hand at the official ribbon-cutting opening of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, once known as the Grand Rapids Veterans Home, last week.

But maybe the most important person when it comes to the operation of the facility and the care of its veteran residents did not handle one of the scissors cutting the ribbon.

 

Carly MacDonald, who has been hired to serve as the new administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes GR, was present at the Sept. 2 event but did not officially take the position until this week. MacDonald took over from Tracey Nelson, the previous administrator, who successfully led the facility for more than three years through a significant transition in anticipation of the new building opening and its COVID-19 response efforts.

Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) provides day-to-day operational oversight of the state’s veteran homes on behalf of the Michigan Veterans Facility Authority (MVFA) and is a branch of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). The MVH operates the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR), along with homes in Marquette and Chesterfield Township. For more information, visit michigan.gov/mvh.

“As a granddaughter and daughter of veterans, I learned at an early age the importance of serving others and our country,” MacDonald said in supplied material. “It’s an exciting time for our team at Grand Rapids as we transition to our new Home and I look forward to meeting and getting to know our veteran members, volunteers and staff.”


The importance of MacDonald’s job and the work she will lead at the new “Home” was echoed by many of the dignitaries at the Sept. 2 grand opening.


U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, addressed the crowd at the grand opening of the Michigan Veterans Homes at Grand Rapids. (Michigan Veterans Homes)

“The state has been serving veterans right here on this campus since the conclusion of the Civil War,” U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, said at the opening and  provided in supplied material. “As we embark on this new chapter, we can confidently say that our legacy of serving those who have served will continue for many years to come.”


In addition to remarks by Gov. Whitmer and Maj. Gen. Rogers, others addressing the gathered crowd included Anne Zerbe, executive director of MVH; Dave Henry, chairman of the board for the MVFA; and Robert Troost, a veteran and resident member at the Home.


“I have been anxiously awaiting the completion of the new Home,” Troost, a veteran and resident member at the Home, said in supplied material. “I am very excited to join my friends for a fresh start in a place that truly feels like a home instead of an institution.”


The ceremony included a posting of the colors led by the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids Member Color Guard and music by the Belmont Armory 126th Army Band.


At a total project cost of $62.9 million, with $40.9 million provided through a federal grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Construction Grant Program, construction of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids began in April 2019 and occupies 20 acres and totals 152,784 square feet.


Military members and veterans were in the crowd at the grand opening of the Michigan Veterans Homes at Grand Rapids. (Michigan Veterans Homes)

“This new home is the result of a years-long, bipartisan effort to uphold our commitment to our veterans and their families in Michigan,” Gov. Whitmer said in supplied material. “The new Grand Rapids Home was designed to provide comfort and well-deserved peace of mind for the men and women who put their lives on the line for all of us.”


The “Home” consists of four “neighborhood” buildings and a community center. The neighborhood buildings collectively house 128 private resident rooms with ensuite baths and feature shared living and dining spaces, according to supplied material.


The adjacent community center is the centerpiece of the Home and features therapeutic facilities for behavioral, occupational, physical and group therapy, an exam room, chapel, barbershop and salon, café bistro and gift shop. Residents will also have access to an adjacent outdoor courtyard and memorial garden to observe the natural surroundings the campus has to offer.

New administrator’s background

MacDonald has worked in long-term care for over 20 years, according to supplied material. She joined HCR Manorcare, now known as ProMedica Senior Care, in 2001 as human resources director. Shortly thereafter she “had a desire to expand her professional capabilities” and became licensed as a nursing home administrator.


Carly MacDonald, administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)

This then allowed her to have a greater impact on clinical and administrative affairs, expansion of specialized care and member safety. She most recently has served as the administrator at Ascension Living Borgess Place in Kalamazoo for the past four years.


Throughout the pandemic, MacDonald “has been essential in leading her team in understanding and implementing all CDC, CMS and State of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 infection control requirements,” according to a MVH statement. While serving as administrator of Ascension Living Borgess Place, the home had less than ten cases of COVID-19 and no deaths attributed to the virus. 


“We are elated for Carly to join our growing team at MVHGR and are confident she will continue to support our culture of providing exceptional care to those that deserve it most — our veterans and their eligible dependents,” Steve Rolston, MVH chief operations officer, said in supplied material.


Born and raised in Flint, MacDonald received a bachelor’s degree in human resources from Michigan State University and is “an avid alumnus who is devoted to watching
every season of football and basketball,” according to the MVH statement.

She is married to Ryan, a Navy veteran, and they currently reside in Kalamazoo. They celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in June and have two children, Jora, 17, and Logan 21. Carly is also a mom to Maybel, a 4-month-old English Bulldog; Cali, a 4-year-old golden retriever; and a couple rescue cats.

She is active in a women’s golf league and enjoys spending time at the family cottage at Lake George which was passed down to her family from her grandfather. Her grandfather served in World War II in the U.S. Army Air Corps and her father is a Vietnam veteran.

‘Ultimate Truck Show’, honoring first responders, coming to Gilmore Sept. 10-11

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, ,
The Gilmore’s Ultimate Truck Show will include pickup trucks, 4x4s, Jeeps, big rigs, tow trucks, emergency response vehicles, and military vehicles. (Gilmore Car Museum)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Gilmore Car Museum and Tow Community are joining forces to present the Ultimate Truck Show, a celebration of “the trucks we all love and rely on,” on the Gilmore Car Museum campus this weekend.

The event will run Friday, Sept. 10, from noon to 8 p.m.; and Saturday, Sept. 11, from 9 a/m. to 4 p.m. The Gilmore is located on M-43, just north of Gull Lake, between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo.

Tow Community is an online member community of thousands of towing services professionals and emergency responders, promoting roadway safety and the “Slow Down, Move Over” national industry campaign. For more information visit facebook.com/thetowingcommunity

The Ultimate Truck Show, according to a announcement from the Gilmore, will include activities like Touch-A-Truck, a Kids Zone with games, swap meet, bake sale, silent auction, Light Up The Night with the lights from First Responder vehicles, a school bus extrication demonstration, helicopter landing, and more.

Present for viewing will be a wide range of pickup trucks, 4x4s, Jeeps, big rigs, tow trucks, emergency response vehicles, and military vehicles in the show fields, alongside the historic barns and classic dealership buildings containing the Gilmore Car Museum’s indoor car collection.

There will also be live concert performances on both Friday and Saturday, included in the admission price, with Schlitz Creek Bluegrass Band on Friday, starting at 5 p.m.; and  Barefoot Blonde Country Rock Band on Saturday, starting at 2:30 p.m.

There will also be an onsite fundraising efforts at the show which will directly benefit the Great Lakes Burn Camp for Burn Injured Children. (glbcforkids.org)

For general information about the Gilmore Car Museum visit GilmoreCarMuseum.org, call 269-671-5089 or email info@gilmorecarmuseum.org.