Editor’s letter
Words worth repeating This might just be my favorite edition of Urban Street yet. I’ve been at this job for a while, but this issue gives a little nod to where I come from — and that feels pretty special. That clown you see on the cover wielding a toilet plunger like a maestro’s baton? That’s George C. Wilson. His dad (“Big George” Wilson) led the Scottville Clown Band for six decades. But for a brief moment — when he stepped away to serve in the Air Force during the Korean War — someone else took up the plunger. That someone was my dad, Warner E. Enos. There’s a photo on page 12 that proves it: taken in 1950, it shows my father and a fellow band member, “Pinky,” dressed in some appropriately silly attire. My dad’s the one in the skirt, plunger proudly in hand. It just so happens that 1950 was the year the Clown Band first marched in the U.S. Coast Guard Festival parade. While we can’t say for sure my dad led that exact parade, the timing lines up. The band will be bringing up the rear of the parade again on Saturday, Aug. 2, and playing at the Grand Haven Eagles afterward. You can also catch them on July 29 at The Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post 28. If boisterous brass bands aren’t your thing, we’ve packed this issue with quieter joys too, like goat yoga — a playful twist on a peaceful practice. And you can learn how area farmers markets are engaging kids with Power of Produce tokens. As for restaurant reviews, we checked out a new restaurant at Adelaide Pointe and the ever-reliable staple of the shoreline, Sandy Point Beach House. Also, New Holland’s pepperoni pinwheels will be rolling into Grand Haven this summer, right next to their craft spirt tasting room in the social district. Looking to shop with purpose? Love in Action is a thrift store worth checking out with every purchase supporting a great cause. We’ve also got some delicious salad recipes to help you eat fresh and light this season. You’ll meet Randy Heidema, who’s bringing joy to local retirees with classic songs and sing-alongs. And speaking of joy — Holland’s street performers are back! Read all about fire breathing, balloon twisting, and spontaneous sidewalk serenades. Last but not least, Reader’s World has pulled together an awesome summer reading list that truly has something for everyone. It’s called “Summer Reads in Every Genre.” Wherever your summer takes you, I hope this issue gives you something to smile about. I know it did for me. Lisa Enos Editor
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