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Westside Neighbors Unite for Post-Flood Community Clean Up this Weekend

By on April 24, 2013

The Clean-up Crew!

The Clean-up Crew from 2011!

With the recent flooding along the Grand River, one local neighborhood is organizing and taking action. Westside neighbors will come together for the 5th Westside Community Clean Up this Saturday, April 27th. City dwellers from the downtown residential community are partnering with local businesses and area non-profits to recruit volunteers for this Saturdays Westside Clean Up. The neighborhood, already overflowing with trash from the long winter season, was affected by record water levels this past weekend that flooded areas along the fish ladder and Ah Nab Awen park. Organizers had already planned to clean along the West side of the Grand River as part of this annual event, but will now intensify their efforts due to the weekend floods.

The Westside Community Clean Up project is in need of volunteers to help with trash and post-flood clean up over 20 city blocks. This is a great way for local businesses, non profits, churches and members of the public sector to come together as a community and take care of Grand Rapids’ Westside, which was almost wiped out by the flood of 1904. For details on how to become involved with the Westside Community Clean Up, text westside to 71441.

People interested in volunteering for the Westside Community Clean Up are asked to meet at St. Mary’s Church parking lot, 1st Street between Broadway and Turner, at 8:45am on Saturday, April 27th. Teams will work from 9am to 12:15pm to work along the river and city streets cleaning up trash, and report graffiti and maintenance issues directly to the City of Grand Rapids through the “GRCity 311” smartphone application. Due to the volume of trash, the group is planning on taking a break for lunch and then reconvening in the afternoon from 2 pm till dusk to work on additional projects, which will include spreading mulch under the Bridge street bridge, tending to the Westside’s environmental rain gardens, and
painting over some of the graffiti.

A Volunteer Recognition lunch will take place from 12:30-2 pm at Broadway Bar, 6th Street and Broadway NW, where volunteers will be treated to lunch, inspiring words from local leaders and giveaways from local businesses. Invited guests include Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell, State Representatives Winnie Brinks and Brandon Dillon, and First Ward City Commissioners Dave Shaffer and Walt Gutkowski. In addition, organizers have invited Mike Van Gessel, Owner of Rockford Construction, Todd Wawee, Owner of Holiday Bar and Kopper Top; Kris Larson, Executive Director of Downtown Development Authority (DDA); and Kyle Van Strien, member of the Planning Commission and Project Coordinator, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks to share their thoughts on development priorities for the areas Westside.

“Volunteers will be mobilized with everything they need for this three-hour power clean up, which includes picking up trash along the Grand River and several high priority areas identified by the Michigan Department of Transportation, Grand Rapids Streets and Sanitation, and Kent County Road Commission,” reports Erica Curry VanEe, co-founder and organizer of the West Side Community Clean Up. “This event is organized by the community, for the community. It brings out the best in all who participate, and brings hope to all of us who have chosen to make the Westside our home.”

The West Side Community Clean Up is celebrating its 5th year, and is part of a larger grass roots effort to invest in local neighborhood revitalization, beautification and economic development.

Volunteer Information for the Westside Community Clean Up, Saturday, April 27 th:

  • 8:45am: Meet at St. Mary’s Church Parking Lot, 423 1st St NW, Grand Rapids 49504
  • 9am-12:15pm: Westside Community Clean Up
  • 12:30pm: Community Engagement Lunch at Broadway Bar, 6th St and Broadway NW
  • Text westside to 71441 for details on the Westside Community Clean Up and to RVSP

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Women for the Westside Event, Thursday, March 7

By on March 7, 2013

You are all invited to a happy hour meet and greet next week called, Women for the Westside.  The purpose of this event is to create an opportunity to celebrate women, diversity, unity and our love for the Westside.  We are going to have featured beverages that we will name after Westside landmarks, a women-powerment dance mix from Super Dre, munchies, and an open mic for anyone who wants to shout out their love for why they live, work and play on the Westside. We hope this event will engage existing and emerging women leaders, create new friendships, build community, and be a fun way to celebrate Women’s History Month.

RSVP on Event Brite:  http://www.eventbrite.com/event/5660019270/eivtefrnd

Find out more on the event Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/events/156717287816791/

 

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WinterWest 2013 Weekend #2 Round-up

By on February 4, 2013

photo5Weekend #2 of WinterWest 2013 is in the books!  Here’s a recap of this past weekend’s happenings and what you have to look forward to in the final week/weekend of WinterWest.

  • The WinterRush folks held the 2nd Annual Richmond Park WinterRush 5k Adventure Race on Saturday.  The course was adjusted this year to make it a full 5k, giving competitors the opportunity to slide down the hill TWICE!  The 10 inches of fresh powder made the race a bit more challenging and a lot more fun!  The number of participants was down, despite the notable event sponsorships from Striders and Central District Cyclery, due to the competing Ground Hog’s Marathon race.  We look forward to coordinating with WinterRush on this race again next year, and hopefully finding a date that can attract the masses!  Race results are available here.  Congratulations to division winners Jessica Rocheleau (Female 14-39), Marleah Bevelacqua (Female 40+), Andrew Knauf (Male 14-39), Burton Eilers (Male 40+), and Team LARS (Friends and Family division)!
  • WinterRush also coordinated the final race of their FatBikeGRR racing series on Sunday afternoon.  Turnout was great (30+ competitors) and racers handled the difficult course like champs, carrying their bikes up “Mt. Everest”, slipping and sliding down the edge of the sledding hill, and plowing their bikes through the deep snow.  Race and series results will be available on WinterRush’s web page soon.
  • Last week’s warm-up put both rinks out of commission temporarily, but we were able to repair the main rink for weekend ice skating.  The rink closest to the Warming Shelter will be open for ice skating until further notice (forecast is questionable for later this week).

What’s coming up:

In the news:

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Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k Adventure Race to highlight second weekend of WinterWest 2013 at Richmond Park

By on January 29, 2013

430375_293345780719577_2063991950_nWinterWest 2013 rolls on this weekend with two exciting events presented by Winter Rush and Central District Cyclery – the Richmond Park 5k and the Fatbike GRR finale race.  The second annual Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k Adventure Race will be held Saturday morning, with the first heat starting off at 11 am.  Last year, the extreme race attracted over 100 participants.  Event organizers are hoping that with the addition of sponsors like Harmony Brewing Company and Striders, and the word-of-mouth promotion from past participants, this year’s event will bring even more competitors to the hills of Richmond Park.

“We were very pleased with the turnout last year, but are definitely looking to get more people out to the park for this year’s race,” commented Nate Phelps, race director and owner of the Central District Cyclery in downtown Grand Rapids. “We’ve adjusted the course to make it a full 5k this year, but we were sure to leave in all of the obstacles participants enjoyed before.”

According to the event’s website, the Richmond Park Winter Rush is “an extreme race designed to incorporate the natural outdoor elements of Richmond Park…both challenging and fun.”  A few of the challenges participants can expect include the “Field of Snow Angels”, “Mt. Everest”, and the “Nantucket Sleigh Ride”, capping off the course with a wild sled ride down the famous Richmond Hill to the finish line.RichmondRushLogoFinal

The entry fee for the Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k is $30 for individuals, or $60 for a team of 4-6 members, and participants must register prior to the race.  Competitors can register online until Friday, February 1 at 8 pm, or in person the morning of the race.  Each participant will receive a commemorative Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k finishing medal, and bragging rights for conquering the mighty Richmond Park.

IF YOU GO:

            What:              Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k Adventure Race
            Where:            Richmond Park, 1639 Tamarack Ave NW, Grand Rapids
            When:             Saturday, February 2, 11:00 am
            Who:               Three divisions:

Family & Friends – All ages welcome, 4 – 6 team members, team members must all finish at same time.

Adult (14 – 39)

Masters (40+)

The second event of the weekend is the final race of the Fat Bike GRR series.  Entry fee for the race is $20, and registration must be completed online before 12:00 pm the day of the race.

Weather permitting, ice skating and sledding will also return to WinterWest this weekend, and the Warming Shelter will be open serving hot chocolate and coffee for park goers.

Register online by clicking here.

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WinterWest 2013 Weekend #1 Round-up

By on January 28, 2013

With the first weekend of WinterWest 2013 all wrapped up, we thought we’d give you a run-down on what has happened and what’s yet to come:

  • Our motto with rink building tends to be, “What could possibly go wrong?”  Unfortunately, things usually go wrong.  While the weather cooperated for the most part, with a warm build weekend and a cold week to follow, we ran into some uneven ground that caused a few hiccups in preparing the ice.  In the end, we were able to make both rinks work for us.  (Keep your fingers crossed that all the water doesn’t run out of a torn liner with this warm-up, though!)
  • The City helped out in a big way this year, removing the old wading pool and installing a new fence so we could install our large rink next to the warming shelter.  They also provided several newly painted benches and a spot-light for both rinks.
  • As many of you know, we had to cancel the Crazy Cardboard Sled Competition at the last minute due to some unforeseen insurance requirements.  While this was disappointing for us and all who hoped to participate, we now know what we need to do to make sure we don’t run into the same problems in the future.  Trust us, this competition will return next year, bigger and better than before!
  • The Warming Shelter was open Saturday and Sunday for skaters, sledders and anyone else enjoying the park.  We served up over 450 cups of hot chocolate and coffee (thanks to our Warming Shelter Sponsors Meijer and Family Fare).
  • With the rain and warm weather, we decided to close the ice rinks Monday morning with the hope of repairing them by next weekend.  Stay tuned to our website or Facebook fan page for more information on the status of the rinks.

What’s coming up:

  • Saturday, February 2: the Richmond Park Winter Rush 5k – an adventure style race that will take you throughout the park, including down the sledding hill to cap off your run.  Be sure to register online by clicking here.
  • Sunday, February 3: the Winter Rush Fat Bike Series finale, presented by Central District Cyclery.  Register online by clicking here.
  • Saturday, February 9: the WinterWest 3-on-3 Hockey Tournament – only $25 per team, guaranteed 2 games.  Click here for more information.
  • Sunday, February 10: the Winter Tree ID Walk, with Lee Mueller of the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks.

In the news:

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Crazy Cardboard Sled Competition to highlight first weekend of WinterWest 2013 at Richmond Park

By on January 22, 2013

On Sunday afternoon, the sledding hill at Richmond Park will play host to the Crazy Cardboard Sled Competition, a premier event of the WinterWest Festival on Grand Rapids’ Westside. WinterWest kicks off this Friday and runs through February 10, offering a variety of planned events like a 5k adventure race, a 3-on-3 Hockey Tournament, and hot chocolate and coffee in the warming shelter. The Crazy Cardboard Sled Competition has been a family favorite since WinterWest began in 2011.

“We’ve seen some pretty creative things over the past few years,” commented Jon O’Connor, a member of the WinterWest planning team. “A Viking ship, army tank, race car, and football ‘field’ complete with goal posts, stand out as some of the most memorable sleds. I think it’s a great opportunity for families to work together to come up with something fun – the kids love it!”

The rules of the Competition are relatively straight forward. Sleds should be constructed of primarily cardboard; duct tape, paint, and wax are also permitted. Prizes will be awarded in two categories: Distance (the sled that travels the furthest down the hill) and People’s Choice (voted on by spectators based on creativity and crowd appeal).

Participation is free, but event organizers suggest registering for the event online to make race-day run smoother (www.welcomewest.org/winterwest).

IF YOU GO: 

            What:              WinterWest Crazy Cardboard Sled Competition          

            Where:            Richmond Park Sledding Hill, 1639 Tamarack Ave NW, Grand Rapid 

            When:             Sunday, January 27, 3:00 pm 

            Who:               Open to all!  Participation is free, but online registration recommended.

WinterWest is a collaborative effort of WelcomeWest, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, and the City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department, to encourage residents to take advantage of one of Grand Rapids’ great parks.

WinterWest 2013 event sponsors include Rockford Construction, Meijer, Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza, B & B Beer, Family Fare, the West Grand Neighborhood Organization, and Brann’s Sizzling Steaks and Sports Grille. Event organizers are also working collaboratively with the Grand Rapids Public Schools to offer opportunities for students in the local neighborhood schools, like Harrison Park.

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Press Release: With 3rd Annual WinterWest just around the corner, festival organizers welcome return of cold weather to extended forecast

By on January 15, 2013

After another unseasonably warm weekend, organizers of the annual WinterWest event are excited to see sub-freezing temperatures in the 10-day forecast. The two-week event, which will be held at Richmond Park on Grand Rapids’ Westside, begins in less than two weeks and will run from January 25 – February 10.

“Temperatures in the teens by the middle of next week? It’s about time!” exclaimed Paul Knust, a member of the WinterWest planning team. “After the weather last year forced us to cancel most of our ice-related events, we’re excited to have ice skating back at the Park.”

According to the event website, WinterWest is a celebration of Winter in West Michigan with the idea of getting people out of the house to enjoy all that winter has to offer. The 2-week festival offers several planned events including the Crazy Cardboard Sled Competition, a 3-on-3 Hockey Tournament, and the Richmond Park 5k Trail Run, an adventure-style race presented by Winter Rush.

A new addition to the WinterWest line-up this year is the final race in the FatbikeGRR Fat Bike Race Series, hosted by Winter Rush and Central District Cyclery.

WinterWest is a collaborative effort of WelcomeWest, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, and the City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department, to encourage residents to take advantage of one of Grand Rapids’ great parks.

“There is a long history of sledding and ice skating at Richmond Park,” says event co-organizer Kyle Van Strien. “We’re excited to offer this opportunity for families to enjoy the snow and cold weather together.”

The warming shelter will be open and complimentary hot chocolate and coffee will be available on weekends and during planned events. “We’re very grateful to our event sponsors who make all of this possible – from the hot chocolate to the ice rinks, we couldn’t do this without them,” says Steve Faber, planning team member and Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks.

WinterWest 2013 event sponsors include Rockford Construction, Meijer, Georgio’s Gourmet Pizza, B & B Beer, Family Fare, the West Grand Neighborhood Organization, and Brann’s Sizzling Steaks and Sports Grille. Event organizers are also working collaboratively with the Grand Rapids Public Schools to offer opportunities for students in the local neighborhood schools, like Harrison Park.

“We’re all about creating a place where individuals and families want to live, work and play,” says Van Strien. “WinterWest is just one more effort to highlight why we love Grand Rapids!”

More details and a schedule of planned events are available at welcomewest.org/winterwest.

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It’s not too late – Come to the Green Gala Aug. 23!

By on August 22, 2012

It’s not too late for you to enjoy the greenest bash of the year – the Green Gala – a fundraiser for the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks.  Friends of GR Parks is one of the presenting partners of WinterWest and working on a number of amazing projects around the City.  This is a great opportunity for you to come show your support for an organization that is promoting the preservation and creation of green space in our City.  Please join us at the Green Gala Thursday evening, August 23 starting at 7:00 pm at Plante Moran and Fish Ladder Park.  Local food, drinks and entertainment will make this one of the best parties of the year!

Find more information about the Green Gala at their website – www.green-gala.com.  

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Downtown neighbors work together to clean up 10,000 lbs of garbage and invest in the cities West Side!

By on May 11, 2012

Downtown neighbors are teaming up on Saturday May 19, to pick-up the trash left behind the cities’ West Side during the long winter months. The fourth annual West Side Community Clean Up will mobilize volunteers and arm them with maps, trash bags and rubber gloves for the three hour power clean up. “Last year, 30 volunteers picked up 7,600 pounds of trash across 20 city blocks, including several high priority areas identified by the Michigan Department of Transportation, Grand Rapids Streets and Sanitation, and Kent County Road Commission,” reports Erica Curry VanEe, one of the co-founders and organizers of the West Side Community Clean Up. “We found mattresses, shopping carts, tv’s, construction equipment, and even recovered a wallet and drivers license from a car break left in a pile of debris in an abandoned lot in the cities west side. Our goal for 2012 is 50 volunteers and 10,000 lbs of trash!” Volunteers will leave the filled trash bags at pre-determined locations for the City to pick up, weigh, and dispose of. In addition to trash pick-up, volunteers will be tending the West Side’s environmental rain gardens, and use their smart phones to document and report graffiti and maintenance issues to the City through the “GRCity 311″ smart phone application.

The event is part of a larger grass roots effort to invest in local neighborhood revitalization, beautification and economic development. The West Side Community Clean Up coincides with the second annual LiveWest campaign by WelcomeWest, where local businesses to offer deals to customers for supporting West Side businesses throughout the month of May. “After we clean up the area, we provide lunch for all the volunteers and give out gift certificates to local establishments. In 2011, more than 20 local businesses contributed over $2000 in sponsorships. We believe this helps stimulate growth for the West Side,” says Curry VanEe. “In 2012, we want to increase participation in this annual event, and begin a conversation with leaders about the future of our cities neighborhood. We are recruiting volunteers from the broader community, including downtown dwellers, local businesses, non-profits, faith communities and elected officials.”

Volunteers will be meeting in the south parking lot of Union Square Condominiums at 600 Broadway NW on Saturday May 19th at 9am. The event will be followed by a community engagement lunch and conversation with West Side leaders, beginning at 12:30 pm at Broadway Bar. Event details are at this link: https://www.facebook.com/events/167317483393999/ .

We hope you’ll join us!

The 2011 Clean-up Crew!

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Richmond Park Winter Rush releases seventh course element: The Limbo

By on January 18, 2012

Grand Rapids, Mich, January 18, 2012 – The Richmond Park Winter Rush (www.WinterRush.com) will be held at Richmond Park (1101 Richmond St NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49504) on January 28, 2012 starting at 11AM. The Winter Rush is an extreme race designed to incorporate the natural outdoor elements of Richmond Park. The course consists of eight (8) “elements” that will be unique and challenging.

The Richmond Park Winter Rush officials announced the seventh course element earlier today:

The Limbo – Hop, hop, hop…low, low, low…How low can you go before you start crawling through the snow?

Six other course elements have already been released to the public. These elements will be featured over a course of 1.5 miles and include:

Mt. Everest – Mt. Everest, one of the most challenging course elements to date, is a 118 ft. elevation gain over 1/10 of a mile. Participants are expected to declare victory over the mountain by placing a flag at the peak.
Nantucket Sleigh Ride – The signature event of the Richmond Park Winter Rush. The course will end with a fast sled ride

Over the River and Through the Woods – A single track run through the woods of Richmond Park which will now lead the path to Mt. Everest. down the famous Richmond Park sledding hill.

Field of Snow Angels – A fun element to create great photo opportunities! Stop, drop and give me five snow angels and be on your way.

The Wall – The first rule of Winter Rush is dodge. Too bad you will be climbing. The Wall.

The Web – Try not to panic when rabbits turn to spiders when weaving through “The Web”

The eighth and final element will be released next Wednesday January 25th.

Registration is now open for the Richmond Park Winter Rush. A portion of the Winter Rush proceeds will be donated to Richmond Park / WinterWest.

Sponsorships are available. Current partners of the Richmond Park Winter Rush include: WinterWest, West Grand Neighborhood Association, WelcomeWest Neighborhood Movement and the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks.

For more information, please visit www.WinterRush.com or contact Nate Phelps, Race Director at 616-990-1402 or by email at racedirector@winterrush.com.

Online Registration to End on January 23, 2012 at Midnight

CONTACT:   Nate Phelps – Race Director, Richmond Park Winter Rush, 
616-990-1402, racedirector@winterrush.com

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