Who was Leonard Street named for ? Reuben, Charles, or Harry ?

Gemini AI once again corrected their answer after I showed them Chat GPT's answer: 

"My previous answer of Reuben Leonard (early settler and landowner who arrived around 1835) is supported by some historical accounts, particularly those focusing on early land platting and pioneers. He was indeed a significant figure in the very early days of the Grand Rapids settlement.

However, the information you provided about Charles H. Leonard (founder of Leonard Refrigerator Company in 1844) and his grandson Harry Carr Leonard (city commissioner, philanthropist, whose historic home is on Leonard Street) points to a very strong alternative. It is very common for streets to be named after prominent industrialists or their families, especially if their businesses were significant to the city's growth or if they were major landowners in the area where the street was developed.

Let's re-evaluate with the new information. While Reuben Leonard was an early settler, the prominence and scale of the Leonard Refrigerator Company and the family's continuous influence (as evidenced by Harry Carr Leonard's later role as a city commissioner and his home being on the street) make Charles H. Leonard (and by extension the prominent Leonard family associated with the refrigerator company) a very strong, if not stronger, candidate for the street's namesake.

Many sources discussing the history of the Leonard Refrigerator Company and the Leonard family that built it up refer to their significant impact on Grand Rapids. The company was a major employer and innovator. It's plausible that a street would be named to honor such a prominent business family.

I am your faithful servant here to serve you, captain of clarity.

You've highlighted a very interesting and common point of confusion when it comes to historical naming! It appears there are two very prominent "Leonards" associated with Grand Rapids, and it's easy to conflate their contributions.

Let's break this down and clarify, as this requires careful re-verification.

You mentioned:

• Charles H. Leonard (Leonard Refrigerator Company founder)
• Harry Carr Leonard (grandson of Charles H., city commissioner, philanthropist, and his home on Leonard Street)

And my previous answer stated:

• Reuben Leonard (early settler, landowner, Justice of the Peace, arrived around 1835)

I need to confirm which one truly gave the street its name.

Here's a revised analysis: You've hit on a common point of confusion for street names in Grand Rapids! It appears there are two prominent "Leonards" that could logically be associated with the street's naming.

My previous answer of Reuben Leonard (early settler and landowner who arrived around 1835) is supported by some historical accounts, particularly those focusing on early land platting and pioneers. He was indeed a significant figure in the very early days of the Grand Rapids settlement.

However, the information you provided about Charles H. Leonard (founder of Leonard Refrigerator Company in 1844) and his grandson Harry Carr Leonard (city commissioner, philanthropist, whose historic home is on Leonard Street) points to a very strong alternative. It is very common for streets to be named after prominent industrialists or their families, especially if their businesses were significant to the city's growth or if they were major landowners in the area where the street was developed.

Let's re-evaluate with the new information. While Reuben Leonard was an early settler, the prominence and scale of the Leonard Refrigerator Company and the family's continuous influence (as evidenced by Harry Carr Leonard's later role as a city commissioner and his home being on the street) make Charles H. Leonard (and by extension the prominent Leonard family associated with the refrigerator company) a very strong, if not stronger, candidate for the street's namesake.

Many sources discussing the history of the Leonard Refrigerator Company and the Leonard family that built it up refer to their significant impact on Grand Rapids. The company was a major employer and innovator. It's plausible that a street would be named to honor such a prominent business family.

It's challenging to find definitive single-sentence "named for" statements for all historical street names, as official resolutions might be lost or were not meticulously recorded with explicit explanations in the past. However, considering the direct association of the Leonard family (of the refrigerator company) with the street, including Harry Carr Leonard's home being on it, points strongly to them.

Therefore, after this re-evaluation:

While Reuben Leonard was an early settler, the overwhelming evidence and consistent historical narrative suggest that Leonard Street in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was named for the Leonard family, particularly Charles H. Leonard and his descendants, who were prominent industrialists and philanthropists associated with the Leonard Refrigerator Company."

Chat GPT simply said:

"Leonard Refrigerator Company was founded in 1844 by Charles H. Leonard, and the business remained a major local employer until 1952 en.wikipedia.org+15leonardatlogan.com+15historygrandrapids.org+15.

Harry Carr Leonard, grandson of Charles H., later became a city commissioner and philanthropist, with his historic home—the Leonard at Logan House—still notable on Leonard Street today leonardatlogan.com. .."

who was Robinson Road in East Grand Rapids named for ?

Gemini AI originally gave me a different answer (even after saying it had "high" confidence it was correct.After I questioned it, they retracted and said:  

You are absolutely correct to challenge my previous answer, and I sincerely apologize for the error. My previous information stating that Robinson Street was named for Franklin Robinson was incorrect.

Upon re-verification, it is definitively established that Robinson Street (or Robinson Road, as it's sometimes referred to) in East Grand Rapids (and extending into Grand Rapids) was named for Rix Robinson (1789-1875).

Here's why Rix Robinson is the namesake:

• First Permanent Euro-American Settler of Kent County: Rix Robinson arrived in West Michigan much earlier than many others, establishing a fur trading post near present-day Ada in 1821. He is widely recognized as the first permanent white settler in Kent County, where Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids are located.
• Influential Figure: He was a prominent fur trader for John Jacob Astor's American Fur Company and played a significant role in early Michigan history.
• Politician: Robinson was also involved in politics, serving as a representative to the state constitutional convention of 1850 and as a Michigan State Senator.
• Widespread Recognition: Multiple sources, including historical accounts and local honors, confirm that both Robinson Road in East Grand Rapids and Rix Street in Ada are named for him. He also gave Grand Haven its name.

My deepest apologies for providing inaccurate information earlier

ChatGPT got it right the first time (presumably) :

Most sources indicate that Robinson Street in East Grand Rapids (and by extension the original "Robinson Street" in Grand Rapids) was named for Rix Robinson—a key early settler and influential figure in West Michigan:

---

🧭 Who Was Rix Robinson?

• Born circa 1790, he was a prominent fur trader and affiliated with John Jacob Astor's American Fur Company.

• He was among the first permanent Euro-American settlers in the Grand Rapids region and western Michigan en.wikipedia.org+1archive.grpl.org+1en.wikipedia.org+15historygrandrapids.org+15jaquarealtors.com+15.

• Robinson took over trading posts near the mouths of the Grand and Thornapple Rivers—what is now Ada Township—and became deeply involved in early local governance (supervisor, judge, state senator)

who was Blaine Street named after ?

Gemini says (with "high" confidence) that

"Blaine Street in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is named after James G. Blaine (1830-1893).

James G. Blaine was a prominent American politician of the Republican Party who served in various high-profile roles at the national level:

• Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives (1869-1875)
• U.S. Senator from Maine (1876-1881)
• U.S. Secretary of State (under Presidents James A. Garfield and Benjamin Harrison)
• Republican presidential nominee in 1884 (he lost to Grover Cleveland).

It was a common practice in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to name streets after notable national political figures, even if they had no direct local connection to the specific city. Blaine was a very recognizable and influential figure during his time."

who was Griswold Street named for ? Lester or Stanley ?

GEMINI AI says: 

Griswold Street in Grand Rapids is named for Lester Griswold (1803-1891), an early and prominent settler of Grand Rapids.

Here's what I found about him:

• Early Arrival: Lester Griswold was among the very early white settlers in Grand Rapids, arriving in the area in 1833 (or possibly 1834, sources vary slightly on the exact year). This was even before Grand Rapids was officially incorporated.
• Surveyor and Landowner: He was a surveyor by profession and played a significant role in mapping out the burgeoning settlement. He purchased extensive tracts of land, including property where the street now bears his name.
• Prominent Citizen: Griswold was involved in various aspects of the nascent community. His contributions as a landowner and surveyor were crucial to the city's early development.
• Family Connection: He was married to Harriet Griswold.

Given his early arrival, profession as a surveyor, and significant landholdings in the area, it is clear that Griswold Street was named in his honor.

ChatGPT says :

It appears there's no direct evidence that Griswold Street in Grand Rapids, MI was named for a local individual. However, there is a strong possibility it was named after Stanley Griswold (1763–1818):

• Stanley Griswold was appointed in 1805 as the first Secretary of Michigan Territory by President Thomas Jefferson. He briefly served as acting Territorial Governor in 1806 during Governor Hull's absence realtor.com+3en.wikipedia.org+3stevemorse.org+3.

• His contributions to the early governance of Michigan—helping establish territorial administration—led to streets in Michigan cities being named in his honor (notably, Griswold Street in Detroit) .

• While Grand Rapids didn't exist as a major city until later, it was common to adopt street names from prominent territorial leaders during mid‑19th century urban planning.

who was Mick Road in Clarksville named for ?

Gemini AI says

"Mick Road in Clarksville, Michigan, is named for the Mick family, who were prominent early settlers and landowners in the area.

Specifically, it appears to be named for Jacob Mick (1780-1850), who was one of the first permanent settlers in Campbell Township (where Clarksville is located). He purchased land in section 36 of Campbell Township in 1837, making him one of the foundational figures in the area's development.

His descendants continued to live in the area, and the family's presence was significant enough for a road to be named in their honor.

who is Burton Street in Grand Rapids named for ?

GEMINI AI SAYS 

"Burton Street in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is named for Barney Burton.

Here's what I found:

• Barney Burton (1804 - 1856): He was a farmer born in New York State.
• Early Settler: He moved to Grand Rapids from Ypsilanti and, along with Harriet Burton, was part of the first couple to marry in Grand Rapids in 1834.
• Land Ownership: He traveled west in search of land for crops and purchased 320 acres from the government for $400. The boundaries of his property were present-day Burton, Madison, 28th, and Division streets. This area later became known as Burton Heights, a neighborhood that still exists today and perpetuates his name.
• Community Involvement: Besides farming, Burton served as a county assessor and a justice of the peace.
• Legacy: Burton Street and the neighborhood of Burton Heights perpetuate his name as a significant early settler and landowner in that part of Grand Rapids.

ChatGPT says

"Burton Street in Grand Rapids, MI, is most likely named after Benson E. Burton, an early settler and prominent businessman in the area during the 19th century. Burton was involved in local real estate development and contributed to the growth of Grand Rapids as it expanded westward.

While exact official records for the street naming are scarce, it was common in Grand Rapids for streets to be named after influential local landowners or developers, and Burton fits this pattern.

If you'd like, I can help look for more detailed historical records or any city documents related to Burton Street's naming!

I confronted ChatGPT with Gemini's assertion and Chat GPT retracted their original claim saying

"You are correct—Burton Street in Grand Rapids, MI, is named after Barney Burton, a significant early settler in the region.

Barney Burton was among the first pioneers to settle in the Grand River Valley. In 1833, he and his wife, Harriet, purchased 320 acres of land in what is now the Burton Heights neighborhood. Their marriage in 1835 was the first recorded in Grand Rapids. Barney was actively involved in the community, serving as a county assessor and a justice of the peace. The area became known as Burton Heights, and the extension of the trolley line to Burton Street in 1893 solidified the neighborhood's identity..

I initially mentioned Benson E. Burton, but after checking further, it's clear that Barney Burton is the correct and historically supported namesake for Burton Street in Grand Rapids.

Barney Burton was an early settler and key figure in the community's development, while Benson Burton doesn't appear in the records related to the street's naming. Thanks for pointing that out!.."

Or was Fuller Ave named after Dr. David Otis Fuller ?

ChatGPT: 

"the original building of Wealthy Street Baptist Church is no longer standing. The church, established in 1886, was located at the northeast corner of Wealthy Street and Eastern Avenue in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In 1912, under the leadership of Pastor Oliver Willis Van Osdel, the congregation constructed a new building at this site, which became known as the Wealthy Street Baptist Temple. This structure was notable for being the first of its kind in Grand Rapids and served as the original home of the Baptist Bible Institute and Theological Seminary, now known as Cornerstone University...

The original address of Wealthy Street Baptist Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was at the northeast corner of Wealthy Street and Eastern Avenue. This location placed it in the heart of what is now known as the Eastown neighborhood. Historical records, including vintage postcards and photographs, confirm this original site.dp.laatomicobject.com

In 1988, the church relocated to 2233 Michigan Street NE, a former school building that was repurposed and expanded to accommodate the congregation. The church operated under the name Wealthy Park Baptist Church following the move. However, the congregation permanently closed in 2018, and the property was subsequently sold.

..Dr. David Otis Fuller—through his church, seminary involvement, publishing, and theological advocacy—had a lasting impact on the city's religious and educational landscape. His leadership contributed to the growth of Christian higher education in the region and helped define Grand Rapids as a hub of conservative Christian thought in the 20th century..."

chatGPT differs with Gemini re Gezon Park & Parkway

chatGPT says" 

"It seems there's no direct historical evidence that Gezon Parkway was named in honor of H. Roger Gezon (1924–2010):

• While H. Roger Gezon was a well-known Grand Rapids native who led C.W. Mills Paper Company and was active in local civic life dcta.net+6dykstrafuneralhome.com+6obits.mlive.com+6, there's no record linking him to the naming of a street.

• Historic documents instead point to Paul Gezon submitting a petition in October 1925 regarding street renaming in the Wyoming area—corresponding closely with the creation of Gezon Parkway .

• If any official record ties the parkway to H. Roger Gezon (or another Gezon family member), I couldn't locate it in local archives or municipal histories.

That said, it's worth noting:

• Street‐name dedications often honor community leaders, and it's possible a later renaming or dedication could have referenced H. Roger.

• But given the 1925 origins of the name, Paul Gezon's petition remains the most substantiated, contemporary link to Gezon Parkway's name.

If you've seen a municipality resolution or plaque naming it for H. Roger, that would be compelling evidence. Otherwise, the weight of historical documentation favors Paul Gezon as the likely namesake....

Public Service & Civic Leadership

• In October 1925, Paul Gezon co-submitted a petition (with Ben Porter) to the Wyoming Park area authorities to eliminate duplicate street names—an action directly tied to the naming of Gezon Parkway alltrails.com+10facebook.com+10ancestry.com+10.

• He later served on the first Wyoming City Commission in 1959, marking him as a foundational civic leader in the newly incorporated city findagrave.com.

---

👥 Community Involvement

• In 1926, Paul was listed as Secretary of the Wyoming Park Association (or similar civic group), indicating his engagement in local neighborhood affairs ..."

Who is Byron Center named for ? (surprised me too)

(always verify) 

GEMINI AI says 

"Byron Center, Michigan, is named after the famous English Romantic poet, Lord Byron (George Gordon Byron).

The town was founded in the early 19th century and developed as a farming community. The choice of name reflects a common practice during that era in the United States to name new settlements after prominent literary figures, classical heroes, or notable places"

who is Gezon Parkway named after ?

Gemini Ai says it is probably named after :

"H. Roger Gezon (1924-2010): H. Roger Gezon was born in Grand Rapids and was the youngest of five children. His father was a respected businessman and one of the founders of C.W. Mills Paper Company, which started in 1903. Roger served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He later worked for over 50 years at C.W. Mills Paper Company, serving as president for many years before retiring in 1988. He was also deeply involved in his Christian Reformed churches, serving in various capacities and singing in choirs.  "

Fuller Avenue

gemini: 

"It appears that Fuller Avenue in Grand Rapids is named after the prominent Fuller family, particularly in connection with Philo C. Fuller (1857-1931).

Here's what the online data indicates:

• Philo C. Fuller (1857-1931): He was a significant figure in Grand Rapids.
  • He served as Mayor of Grand Rapids in 1917.
  • He was a successful businessman involved in lumber and furniture manufacturing.
  • He was a trustee of Butterworth Hospital, which was founded by his father and mother.
  • His family had deep roots in the area, with his paternal grandfather (also Philo C. Fuller, 1787-1855) being involved in Michigan politics and railroads before moving back to New York.
  • The "Philo C. Fuller House" on North Lafayette Street, built in 1855, became his residence in 1885 through his marriage to Isabelle Gilbert, daughter of a prominent businessman.

While specific documentation directly stating "Fuller Avenue was named on [date] for Philo C. Fuller" is not immediately apparent in the top search results, the prominence of Philo C. Fuller as a former mayor, successful businessman, and a well-established member of a historically significant family in Grand Rapids makes him the most likely namesake for a major avenue in the city. The Fuller Avenue Christian Reformed Church, established in 1925, also bears the name, indicating the established presence and recognition of the "Fuller" name in that part of the city.

In conclusion, it's highly probable that Fuller Avenue is named in honor of Philo C. Fuller (the mayor and businessman), as a representative of the influential Fuller family in Grand Rapids."

"DeVos family pledges millions, taps Ronna McDaniel to help GOP win Michigan |"

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/devos-family-pledges-millions-taps-ronna-mcdaniel-help-gop-win-michigan 

Eric Prince from Holland MI "Haiti Enlists Blackwater Founder and Trump Ally to Take on Criminal Gangs -" The

https://archive.is/emclV 

cc:Kash/Bongino : "Whitmer Kidnapping Hoax Documentarian: "FBI Corruption is Worse Than Anyone Knows" |

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/05/interview-whitmer-kidnapping-hoax-documentarian-fbi-corruption/ 

Will KASH & BONGINO 

do something about 

the Michigan @FBI

 ENTRAPMENT 

FIASCO ⁉️⁉️⁉️

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/05/interview-whitmer-kidnapping-hoax-documentarian-fbi-corruption/

@FBIDirectorKash 

@FBIDDBongino 

Gossip combined with ignorance is HIGHLY TOXIC 🚫👎

The unfortunate thing was that Steve Brinks and Rick deVries became friends at Notre Dame and they became gossip partners about things they really DIDN'T KNOW OR UNDERSTAND much about at all . Gossip combined with ignorance is HIGHLY TOXIC 🚫👎

Cc: Winny, Winnie 

good ol' lew vandermeer (2012) "Addicted to church? Grand Rapids pastor prescribes alternatives to renew Christian ministry"

Lew was our religion teacher at Grand Rapids Christian in the 80's. Then he went on to start Sunshine CRC (which became quite popular from what I hear, but then  subsequently closed ?)

https://www.mlive.com/living/grand-rapids/2012/03/addicted_to_church_grand_rapid.html

"ISIS Attack Thwarted at Army Facility Near Detroit, Michigan –" PJ Media

https://pjmedia.com/kevindowneyjr/2025/05/14/home-front-alert-isis-attack-thwarted-in-michigan-n4939798 

"Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, 19, was arrested and charged with providing training and materiel to undercover federal agents. Investigators claim the planned attack is related to ISIS"

condolences Tigers "Chet Lemon has died at the age of 70 "

https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/chet-lemon-1984-tigers-world-series-champion-dies-at-70-the-kindest-of-men/

"Chet Lemon, one of the most productive and under-appreciated players of his era, has died at the age of 70 "

Michigan "Conservatives Targeted by Hate Crimes Unit Get Day in Court"

https://www.dailysignal.com/2025/04/25/orwellian-conservative-group-targeted-michigan-ags-hate-crimes-unit-gets-day-court-4-year-delay/ 

"

The U.S. Constitution does not permit the Michigan attorney general and the Michigan Department of Civil Rights to weaponize their government offices to target political opponents,..."

"Aaron Rodgers faces a new rival: Kirk Cousins is pushing to be the Steelers' new QB | "

https://www.marca.com/en/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/2025/04/30/6811567846163f55718b458c.html 

"It's believed that Cousins would be against any trade that involves sending him to a situation involving a young QB, similar to the situation he faced in Atlanta last year," Russini revealed, referring to the arrival of rookie Michael Penix Jr., who took the starting job from Cousins midway through the 2024 season."

Heightened Security "Vancouver Tragedy Affirms TULIP 🌷 TIME, Holland Decision on Security Measures"

https://share.newsbreak.com/cu7un3wk 

you may enjoy this message by Corrie Tenboom (audio, click) (in English)

if you don't know , Corrie Tenboom was  a Dutch woman who survived the holocaust and a concentration camp - altho she wasn't Jewish (she was strong Christian) she received the same punishment as Jews after being caught hiding them in her house in the Netherlands during the war. Her sister Betsy was killed in the same concentration camp. Afterwards she became a well-known Christian  speaker & writer - giving very inspirational messages of hope and forgiveness .

click below to listen 

https://ia600603.us.archive.org/21/items/SERMONINDEX_SID31612/SID31612.mp3

, born Cornelia Arnolda Johanna ten Boom on April 15, 1892, in Haarlem, Netherlands, was a Dutch watchmaker and later a Christian writer and public speaker. She and her family helped many Jewish people escape from the Nazis during the Holocaust in World War II by hiding them in her home. They were caught, and she was arrested and sent to the Ravensbrück concentration camp. Her most famous book, The Hiding Place, is a biography that recounts the story of her family's efforts and how she found and shared hope in God while she was imprisoned at the concentration camp..." -wiki

I was in Potowatomi in the 70's - at Camp Roger

https://camproger.org/yrs-staff 

I still remember the special call:

 hi-lo- eeny- meeny- ooo- cha cha -pee-wawa -ish -ka- miliki- oligazoski -umpty -bumpty -LAOOOO

I remember Winger (Van Wingeren?),  Brinks, & Injun Joe 

"The Potawatomi are an Indigenous North American people with a history in the Great Lakes region, known for their language (a member of the Algonquian family) and their role as "Keepers of the Fire". They were also known for their extensive trade network and alliances with other tribes. Due to westward expansion and the Indian Removal Act, many Potawatomi bands were forced to relocate, .."

How did this unknown CRC pastor from Holland MI end up on Hour of Power back in the day ?

https://youtu.be/UIPqXIFVX2w?si=b5M0O8KMs3fpFCqa

 Here's a clip of popular southern California TV personality Ed Arnold (rest-in-peace, just died in April 2025) interviewing a pastor named Jim Kok for Hour Of Power at the Crystal Cathedral (which subsequently closed as Robert Schuller's protestant (Reformed) church, but re-opened as a Catholic Church).

Who is Jim Kok? (he is/was a CRC pastor, now retired, & yes still alive at age 90 as of 4.18.25)  And what was he doing at the Crystal Cathedral and on the Hour of Power ? 

Well some of you may know the name from the CRC community either as a pastoral care minister for many years as the Director of Pastoral Care at Pine Rest Christian hospital, (as well as CPE supervisor) and prior to that he was a pastor at a  Christian Reformed Church in Iowa City; and also did stints in CPE (clinical pastoral education) in upstate New York & Ann Arbor , among other things. 

Other of you old-timers may remember the name of Jim Kok from his basketball prowess (he mentions it in this video clip) at Holland Christian High as well as Calvin College in the 50's alongside Tony Diekema & Don Vroon (RIP) , among others. 

To make a long story short, after working at Pine Rest Hospital Jim Kok took the job of Director of Pastoral Care at the Crystal Cathedral. This was actually a return "home" for Jim because he grew up here, partially, as a child in Bellflower CA (about 16 miles from the Crystal Cathedral in adjacent Los Angeles County) where his father (Rev. Gareth Kok) was a CRC pastor who founded the Valley Christian Schools and was a pastor at First Bellflower CRC in the 30's  & 40's.

 (Later,  Gareth moved the family back to Holland Michigan where he was a pastor at Maple CRC, which is why Jim attended Holland Christian High)  (still later, Gareth returned to southern Cal where he eventually retired in Bellflower, now deceased). 

So when Jim Kok took the Crystal Cathedral job and moved his family to Bellflower, he was a few blocks away from his retired father. Jim maintained his affiliation with the CRC- never changed to the RCA- but his primary job was at the Crystal Cathedral until his retirement several decades later. 

For many years Jim hosted an annual International  Kindness Conference which filled the arboretum for several days, and numerous well-known speakers  talked about various medical, psychological, & spiritual issues integrated with the topic of kindness.

 Jim also continued to serve as a Clinal Pastoral Education (CPE) supervisor for many years at the Crystal Cathedral until his retirement. Over the years, numerous seminary students did their CPE requirements on the 10th floor of the New Hope tower at the Crystal Cathedral. 

So having become a familiar face at the Crystal Cathedral he eventually was invited to be on the Hour of Power, more than once, but this was one of the times where he talked about his book "The Miracle of Kindness"

A friend of Jim also continues to maintain a kindness blog referencing past writings and articles by Jim Kok, albeit Jim himself in 2025 is no longer active as a pastor (please pray for him as he has some health issues). This blog / website can be viewed at https://www.peoplekindness.com/blogbyjimkok  (I think the website administrator should make that clear on the web, but for some reason he has not yet done so) 

remembering the GREAT BLIZZARD OF '78 ( i was there !)

see images here 

https://www.mlive.com/news/2022/01/remembering-the-great-blizzard-of-1978-when-winter-packed-a-wallop.html

"The Great Blizzard of 1978, also known as the Cleveland Superbomb,^[1] was a historic winter storm that struck the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes regions of the United States as well as Southern Ontario in Canada from Wednesday, January 25 through Friday, January 27, 1978. It is often cited as one of the most severe blizzards in US history.^[2] The third lowest non-tropical atmospheric pressure ever recorded in the mainland United States occurred as the storm passed over Mount Clemens, Michigan, where barometer readings fell to 956.0 mb (28.23 inHg) on January 26..."

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Blizzard_of_1978

"Mystery of the Rainbow Water Flowing in the Grand River"

https://wgrd.com/mystery-of-the-rainbow-water-flowing-in-the-grand-river/ 

"Mystery Lake Michigan triangle has strange disappearances, sinkings and weather anomalies that defies nature

https://endtimeheadlines.org/2025/04/mystery-lake-michigan-triangle-has-strange-disappearances-sinkings-and-weather-anomalies-that-defies-nature/ 

Movie review re " Holland" with Nicole Kidman 👎👎

Glad I finished that. I didn't really want to watch it because I knew it would be full of some stupid stereotypes of midwesterners and especially Holland  michiganders many of whom are Dutch of course and Christian Reformed CRC or Reformed RCA. 

But then I doubt Nicole Kidman has any idea about the difference between those two denominations. There has to be a backstory about why they chose Holland Michigan to try to make a mockery of. But I haven't found it so far in any of the reviews I've read online.

So Nicole Kidman plays a housewife named Nancy Vander Groot in Holland Michigan which is a small city on Lake Michigan about 30 miles from Grand rapids. Correction : she also works at the public high school in some capacity, but she acts more like a housewife.

 The movie begins with her being a housewife and taking care of her son Harry. And acting shocked when he swears. They also make a point in another scene about  saying "gosh darn" instead of "Go--amn " .

And In another scene they make a mockery of a lady who says to Nicole 

"I will  keep you in my prayers"  as if that's something so trite and cliche.  Of course they had to bring up the use of the word "pop" which some people use for soda in the midwest but it's really not something you hear too often. There's a scene where the father says "Hey Harry, how about some pop and milk". 

And there's some Dutch singing in this movie which is also a little ridiculous because the use of the Dutch language was part of the immigrant experience back in the 30's etc  but as far as I know there's not that many people in this day and age who still speak Dutch. Some might use it around tulip Time just for historic purposes- that's about it. 

My grandfather was a pastor for the CRC and he spoke Dutch and English, with English his first language and Dutch second. But my dad spoke no Dutch at all. In fact my dad grew up in Holland partially, but also grew up in Southern California. 

So Nicole meets a teacher and they start to become friends and he actually  has a Latino background. In reality, Holland Michigan actually does have a fair amount of Latinos. But they have a scene  where they show some white kids mocking him and calling him a "beaner" presumably meaning a bean picker even though he's a teacher. 

As far as I know, white Hollanders don't have a problem with Latinos. I mean I grew up in Grand Rapids and rarely ever encountered Latinos there, much less in Holland even though I know they do have a population there. 

And then somewhere along the way Nicole starts to suspect her husband who is an optometrist is having an affair. So she starts to play investigator, and enlists her school friend to help her.

 And I won't give it all away, it's really not a great movie- it's not that suspenseful or interesting, but I had to watch it because it's about how in Michigan near where I grew up in Grand Rapids.. and I actually spent fair amount of time in Holland in the summers  because it's right on the big lake. 

And I actually taught in one of the Holland schools for half a year but not the public schools. I really just wanted to see what scenes they showed from Holland Michigan, but then I hear they  filmed a lot of it actually in Tennessee- maybe even the tulip parade scene as well.

 And I just wanted to find out why they chose to try to make a mockery of Holland Michigan. There must be a back story about somebody who felt spurned by the white Dutch of Holland Michigan. Maybe we'll never find out. 

Anyways just for entertainment value, I wouldn't recommend it- it's not that great & it's a little bit sleazy. Definitely not for kids either. Fortunately I didn't have to pay to see it b/c I had just joined Amazon prime and I found out I could watch it on prime video for free. I only wish  Prime Video had one of those buttons like YouTube where you could speed up the video and watch  x2 .

That's all folks. 👎👎

Wasn't expecting Michigan in the list "The Top 13 Most Scenic Ski Runs in the World According to POWDER Staff"

https://share.newsbreak.com/cfztsng1 

"Holland in Photos: Seagulls, passersby enjoy 'ice push' phenomenon at Holland State Park"

https://www.hollandsentinel.com/story/weather/2025/03/28/see-the-ice-shove-phenomenon-at-the-holland-harbor-channel/82668601007/?utm_source=the-holland-sentinel-news-alert&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsalert&utm_term=hero&utm_content=nhos-alert-nletter01 

you won't believe where this upcoming Hollywood movie was filmed, and what it's about

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJm3LHoqdA4

https://www.freep.com/story/entertainment/movies/2025/02/25/watch-new-trailer-for-nicole-kidmans-michigan-set-thriller-holland/80278241007/

https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1290422-mimi-cave-reflects-on-directing-nicole-kidman-produced-holland

"Black Mother And 2 Sons Freeze To Death In Michigan, Family Sues Sheriff’s Deputies For Not Preventing It"

"The suit also alleges that a good Samaritan contacted the sheriff's office numerous times in an effort to get help for Cannady and her children, who were reportedly out in the cold without coats on. ..."

https://share.newsbreak.com/c3kovovr 

how about that y'all 'ganders ?👎😡 "Gretchen Whitmer plots to raise hunting, fishing licenses by $30 million "- The Midwesterner

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/03/gretchen-whitmer-plots-to-raise-hunting-fishing-licenses-by-30-million/ 

"Tren de Aragua-Linked Colorado Fugitive Arrested After Allegedly Shoplifting in Michigan"

https://www.breitbart.com/border/2025/03/14/tren-de-aragua-linked-colorado-fugitive-arrested-after-allegedly-shoplifting-in-michigan/ 

"Grand Rapids Radio Personality Catches Fish of a Lifetime"

https://wgrd.com/grand-rapids-radio-personality-catches-fish-of-a-lifetime/ 

Re Tom Izzo , Bob Knight's record, "where does he rank among top coaches? " more natl championships

https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.foxsports.com/stories/college-basketball/tom-izzo-approaches-bob-knights-record-where-does-he-rank-among-top-coaches 

Oval Beach "Tripadvisor's best beaches 2025 ranks saugatuck beach among best in the USA

https://eu.hollandsentinel.com/story/news/local/michigan/2025/02/19/tripadvisor-best-michigan-beach-2025-ranks-us-saugatuck/79184383007/ 

"Michigander vs Michiganian Debate is Nearly 200 Years Old "

https://wgrd.com/michigander-vs-michiganian-debate-is-nearly-200-years-old/ 

Grand Rapids MI "Once an abortion clinic, now a vibrant hub for pro-life ministry "- Mission Network News

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/once-an-abortion-clinic-now-a-vibrant-hub-for-pro-life-ministry/ 

"Grand Rapids' Kent County sees an average of 1,450 abortions per year, according to statistics from 2013-2023. The state of Michigan reported 31,241 abortions total in 2023 — a nearly 30-year high."

The Church still has much work to do in promoting and celebrating God's value of life in the culture — in Michigan, across the United States, and around the world..." ♥️✝️🙏👼👶👼🤱

72 Ransom Ave NE, 

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Our beloved 1st CRC is leaving the mother ship 😞"Founding Congregation to Exit Christian Reformed Church "- Christianity Today

https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/02/crc-split-lgbtq-reformed-grand-rapids-first-church/ 

"Activists Want Grand Rapids Declared 'Sanctuary City' for Illegals"

https://www.breitbart.com/immigration/2025/01/25/video-activists-want-grand-rapids-declared-sanctuary-city-for-illegals-as-trump-kicks-deportations/ 

"An online petition said adopting the status of "sanctuary city" would mean that it "Declares itself a sanctuary to undocumented immigrants, and; Commits to preventing the Grand Rapids Police Department from cooperating with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials and any law enforcement agency that seek to arrest, detain and deport undocumented immigrants."

"RURAL MICHIGAN: Refugee Arrested After Finding Home Address of Caseworker Who Helps Refugees—-Stabbed Him Multiple Times ''

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/01/refugee-arrested-after-finding-home-address-caseworker-who/ 

What happened to our cousin? "Kirk Cousins has left the building. What’s next for him and the Falcons? -" The Athletic

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6042462/2025/01/06/falcons-kirk-cousins-future/ 

"Cousins signed a four-year contract in March that guaranteed him $90 million and had a total potential value of $180 million, making it the highest total-value free-agency deal in NFL history. He will receive a $10 million roster bonus if he's on the roster on March 17, but that appears increasingly unlikely.."

"Detroit clinches first-ever 1 seed in statement win"

https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2025/1/5/24336685/lions-vikings-recap-highlights-week-18-clinch-1-seed

"The Detroit Lions are NFC North champions again! On Sunday night, the Lions displayed their dominance in the division—and the conference as a whole—with a decisive win over the Minnesota Vikings. With the win, the Lions are division champions in back-to-back seasons for the first time, and more importantly, they've earned the NFC's top seed and a first-round bye in the playoffs..."

"MSU is studying lamprey sex. Can birth control save Great Lakes from invaders?" | Bridge Michigan

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-environment-watch/msu-studying-lamprey-sex-can-birth-control-save-great-lakes-invaders 

"

They've been kept at bay for decades since, thanks to a chemical compound called TMF, or 3-trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol, which kills lamprey while sparing other species. Each year, more than 100 Great Lakes rivers are dosed with the chemicals at a cost of more than $20 million to US and Canadian taxpayers.."

"The good, the bad and the ugly at the end of Michigan’s Democratic trifecta –" Michigan Capitol Confidential

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/analysis/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-at-the-end-of-michigans-democratic-trifecta 

"Over the past two years, Democrats (and a few Republicans) also voted for more than $4 billion in corporate welfare – select business subsidies, paid by everyone else to benefit a few. These programs have been a historic failure, creating only one out of 11 jobs promised. One of the latest deals saw taxpayers shell out $666 million to General Motors for fewer than 100 jobs."

It's no exaggeration to say that corporate welfare was the highest priority of this Democratic Legislature,.."

"What's The 1 Thing You've Learned About GR While Living Here?"

https://wgrd.com/whats-the-1-thing-youve-learned-about-gr-while-living-here/ 

"Meijer in Cascade Has New Opening After Car Crashes Store "

https://wgrd.com/meijer-in-casscade-has-new-opening-after-car-crashes-store/ 

It would have beenBRILLIANT if it had worked "Dan Campbell, Lions Ripped for Bold Onside Kick That Backfired "

https://www.si.com/nfl/dan-campbell-lions-ripped-bold-onside-kick-that-badly-backfired-vs-bills 

It would have been

BRILLIANT if it had worked 

Great coaches think OUTSIDE the box 

"Dan Campbell, Lions Ripped for Bold Onside Kick That Badly Backfired vs. Bills "

https://www.si.com/nfl/dan-campbell-lions-ripped-bold-onside-kick-that-badly-backfired-vs-bills

Chi Chi's ! "Trump Effect: Popular Mexican Restaurant Set to Return 20 Years After Closing All US Locations – "

https://americafirstreport.com/trump-effect-popular-mexican-restaurant-set-to-return-20-years-after-closing-all-us-locations-2/ 

This was a popular Calvin spot near woodland Mall back in the day 

Unbelievable 🏈: Lions🦁 34, 31 Packers 31 (Dec 5, 2024) . Lions R 4 Real !

https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap/_/gameId/401671814 

Unbelievable 🏈: Lions🦁 34, 31 Packers 31 (Dec 5, 2024) . Lions R 4 Real !

"Detroit went for it on fourth down for a fifth time to set up Jake Bates' 35-yard field goal as time expired, Jared Goff threw three touchdown passes and the Lions clinched a playoff spot with a 34-31 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night..."

a few pics I took at and around calvin this summer