Blog by GHMF Committee Member Dennis N.
Hello to All GH Fountain Followers
On Tuesday October 13, 2026 the Fountain was put to bed for the long off season. The hibernation prep came about a week later than normal but nevertheless was completed without any issues. All the pipes were drained and flushed so that no freezing should occur over the winter months and in turn be debris free for startup in 2027. All in all, it was an awesome season which spotlighted new lights and a major tech upgrade. Just a few things to cover/update from the last Thursday maintenance crew letter.
Updates On Mechanical Issues From 2026
The most important update to report is that Jerry was able to secure some new o-rings for the butterfly valve air actuators. Even though these are not a perfect fit width wise, the new ring proved itself to work during the remainder of the season on valve 10-A, (1 of 2 valves supplying the Peacock feature). It was so nice to see the Peacock operating at full capacity when this o-ring was installed. In addition, it appears that these will work without the spacers discussed in the previous update. Jerry ordered a full complement of these rings and some spares. Plans are to upgrade all the actuators with new o-rings in the spring.
New O-Rings for the Peacock
Repairing leaks on the Doves
The North dove developed a leak when one of two set screws holding the swivel/spinning mechanism in place had lost a set screw/bolt. This small leak became a major problem when under pressure. To initiate the repair the spinning Dove mechanism needed to be removed, and the set bolt replaced. The repair was done and the Dove again works great.
The last repairs done this summer were the replacement of swivel unions. 2 were done late this summer and 3 early in the season. The swivel unions allow the sweeps the oscillate back and forth. These repairs are done by the city (photos 7 & 8). Last, the city contracted out work to be done on the Anchor House roof. This small building houses the mechanism used to raise and lower the anchor on top of Dewey Hill. This is now complete.
2026 Software Updates:
What can be said about this? The season has no sooner ended and well, Brad is up to Brad stuff. The current brand-new choreography software is in the process of being replaced with all new software. And let me say, the upgrades are literally coming out daily. This new program is currently in the Beta process where feedback, bugs and input are given back to Brad by choreographers as they experiment with the new program. With feedback, Brad adjusts/debugs accordingly and is adding new features as we speak. These new features will incorporate many new tools to aid choreographers in building out new songs and help speed up the process.
Additionally, Brad has totally rewritten the Fountain Director software. The Fountain Operators will be directing the nightly shows with many new tools and features designed for ease of use. Also, the Thursday Crew will be aided by the new software since it will monitor a huge amount of data while the Fountain is operating and forewarn of any issues that perhaps can be preemptively addressed.
New Fountain Simulator to aid Choreographers
Let’s not forget about the Toyota commercial filmed in Grand Haven. Can’t wait to see how it turns out. City Beach, Bicentennial Park, and of course the Fountain.
Filming a Toyota commercial at the fountain
Many thanks to all those that have contributed to making the 2026 year a great success:
The City of Grand Haven.
Our loyal followers, fans and enthusiasts.
The Musical Fountain Committee.
Friends of the Musical Fountain.
Our awesome Operators.
Nicki our amazing Producer and social media guru who’s already envisioning new shows for 2027!
The Thursday Maintenance Crew.
The Extraordinary Choreography Team.
And special thanks to Brad for his continued vision for the fountain and bringing us all along for the ride.
As promised several months ago, meet the Thursday Crew.
From left to right: John, Jerry, Chuck, Bob, Dennis
And just a couple of additional photos from shutdown day. No pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but perhaps our own Fountain is that pot of gold. Looking forward and another magical year in 2027! Lord willing see you all then!!
