Remembering Merze Tate Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - April 29, 2024May 28, 20240 BLANCHARD (MICH.)- The Merze Tate Explorers had the opportunity to honor Merze Tate after a recent visit to her hometown of Blanchard. Historian Dan Shaw took Explorers on an eye-opening tour of what life was like for Tate during the early 20th century. The students ended the tour with a
Explorers Go Old School at CMU Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - April 28, 2024May 28, 20240 MT. PLESEANT (MICH.)- Korie Pritchett Evans raised her hands excitedly when Explorers were asked, "Who wants to wear the dunce hat?" She didn't know what "dunce" meant, but the pointy hat in the corner looked fun. Once she was told that the dunce hat was for students who were not
Exploring Indigenous History Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - April 8, 2024October 22, 20240 KALAMAZOO (MICH.)- Korie Pritchett-Evans jumped at the chance to wear an authentic Choctaw shawl. She swayed from side to side to the rhythm of a Pow Wow candance drummer. Although she and other Explorers were in a classroom, author Shonda Buchanan shared the history of native chants, Pow Wows, and
Fox 17 News Inspires Young Journalists Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - March 19, 2024May 28, 20240 Grand Rapids (Michigan) - How many careers are involved in producing the news? The Explorers met the team of Fox 17 News in Grand Rapids to learn more about their careers, why they love what they do, and the various career paths that help make the news happen. From advertising
Explorers Meet Space Explorer Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - February 5, 2024February 5, 20240 KALAMAZOO (MICH.)- Before the 1960s, space flight was the figment of Hollywood movie producers' imagination. Could humans visit, let alone live, in outer space? The successful moon landing of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin in 1969 made that dream more of a reality. Merze Tate wanted to experience it for
History Comes to Life at the Wright Museum Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - February 1, 2024February 5, 20240 DETROIT (MICH.) - Lena stood at the exhibit slightly longer than the others. Her eyes were glazed with sadness as she peered through the exhibit window and into the eyes of the mannequin, which hung by its neck on a tree. "This doesn't feel right," her voice quivered. "They shouldn't
The Explorers Host 1st Saturday@Powell Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - January 31, 2024January 31, 20240 Join the Merze Tate Explorers as we host the 1st Saturday@Powell Library Family Day! Children will participate in Explorer-led geography fun, African American local history quizzes, receive free coloring books, and more! Join us from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, February 3rd, at the Powell Library, 1000 W. Paterson St.,
Women of Color Exhibit Seeks Travel Photos Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - January 9, 2024January 9, 20240 When the Explorers went to Hawaii for a science-focused academy, we decided to climb Diamond Head on the last day. Lydia did not feel she could. I told her I would do it with her. We were the last Explorers to make it to the top, but Lydia made it!
Explorers Exceeded Fundraising Goal! Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - December 15, 2023January 9, 20240 After wrapping hundreds of gifts, the Explorers raised more than $5,500! We beat our goal to raise $4,000 during our 7th annual Gift Wrapping Fundraiser at the Crossroads Mall in Portage, Michigan. Each year, hundreds of community members bring their gifts to Explorers at the Mall, who wrap them for
15th Year Kickoff Celebration Highlights Uncategorized by Sonya Bernard-Hollins - December 13, 2023December 13, 20230 If you missed our 15th Anniversary kickoff, watch the TRAILER! Exploring Possibilities Sonya Holins poses with LaToya and Nya Kuhn during the 15th Anniversary Kickoff at the Ladies' Library Association. The event celebrated our 15th season and those in the community who have contributed to our success. See the full program HERE.