All posts by Joanne

Local high school sports schedule includes WKTV featured ballgame at South Christian

Kentwood Public Schools, Sports
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

By Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director
sports@wktv.org

April has a full month of schedules for the local high school sports but needs Mother Nature to cooperate with so many being outdoors. This includes not just baseball and softball, but also golf, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and both boys and girls track. The indoor seasons are still happening though with water polo in progress as well.

WKTV will once again bring water polo, baseball, and softball to the viewers with a trio of programs over the course of the month.

The tentative schedule is:

Thursday, April 11, girls water polo, West Ottawa at East Kentwood
Thursday, April 18, girls softball, Byron Center at South Christian
Wednesday, April 24, girls softball, Belding at Wyoming Lee

 
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.

 
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.

 
Following is this week’s schedule:

Tuesday, Nov. 27
Boys Basketball
South Christian @ East Kentwood
Wyoming Lee @ Saugatuck
Creative Tech @ West Michigan Aviation

Monday, April 8
Girls Softball
Belding @ Godwin Heights – DH
NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian
Boys Baseball
Belding @ Godwin Heights
NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
Girls Soccer
West Michigan Aviation @ NorthPointe Christian

Tuesday, April 9
Girls Tennis
East Kentwood @ South Christian — Cookie Invite
Wyoming @ Jenison
Boys Baseball
South Christian @ Wayland – DH
Wyoming Lee @ Barry County Christian – DH
Grand Rapids Crusaders @ Tri-Unity Christian
Potter’s House @ Zion Christian
East Kentwood @ Rockford – DH
Boys Lacrosse
South Christian @ Kenowa Hills
Girls Soccer
South Christian @ Wayland
Covenant Christian @ Godwin Heights
Tri-unity Christian @ Kelloggsville
Zion Christian @ Potter’s House
Ottawa Hills @ West Michigan Aviation
Grandville @ East Kentwood
Boys/ Girls Track
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Boys Golf
Kelloggsville vs Calvin Christian @ Pines
East Kentwood @ Grandville
Girls Softball
East Kentwood @ Cedar Springs — DH
Girls Water Polo
East Kentwood @ Zeeland West

Wednesday, April 10
Boys Golf
South Christian – Kent County Classic @ Kent Country Club
Wellsprings Prep vs Tri-Unity Christian @ Maple Hill
East Kentwood – Kent County Classic @ Thornapple Pointe
Girls Track
South Christian @ East Grand Rapids
Boys / Girls Track
Wyoming @ Christian
Caledonia @ East Kentwood
Girls Tennis
Wayland @ South Christian
East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming
Boys Baseball
East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming – DH
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
Girls Soccer
East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming
Wyoming Lee @ Belding
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Girls Softball
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Kelloggsville @ NorhtPointe Christian
Unity Christian @ East Kentwood
Boys Lacrosse
Northview @ East Kentwood

Thursday, April 11
Boys Baseball
Wayland @ South Christian
Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Zion Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian – DH
West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House @ Pinery Park – DH
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Boys Lacrosse
Jenison @ South Christian
Lowell @ East Kentwood
Girls Soccer
Christian @ South Christian
FH Eastern @ Wyoming
Tri-unity Christian @ Hudsonville Hornets
Zion Christian @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House
East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Girls Softball
East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming – DH
Godwin Heights @ Plainwell – DH
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Boys / Girls Track
Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee
West Michigan Aviation @ Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Girls Tennis
@ East Kentwood
Girls Water Polo
West Ottawa @ East Kentwood

Friday, April 12
Girls Softball
Wyoming @ Byron Center
Boys Baseball
Wyoming Lee @ Zion Christian – DH
Barry County Christian @ Potter’s House — DH
Girls Soccer
Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
Union @ Godwin Heights
Saugatuck @ Kelloggsville
Girls Tennis
Kelloggsville @ Holland
Girls Water Polo
East Kentwood @ Saline

Saturday, April 13
Girls Tennis
South Christian @ East Kentwood – EK Invite
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming – Wyoming Invitational
@ East Kentwood – EK Invitational
Boys Golf
South Christian vs Christian – GRCHS Invite @ Quail Ridge
Kelloggsville vs Kenowa Hills – Wilson Classic
East Kentwood @ Rockford
Girls Track
South Christian @ Unity Christian – Houseward Invite
Boys / Girls Track
Wyoming @ Comstock Park
West Michigan Aviation @ Lakewood
East Kentwood @ Mansfield – Mehock Relays
Boys Baseball
South Christian @ East Kentwood – Bosma Invite
Godwin Heights @ Wyoming – Wyoming Invite
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming – Wyoming Invite
Union @ Wyoming Lee — DH
Girls Softball
South Christian @ East Kentwood – Bosma Invite
Girls Soccer
South Christian @ Caledonia
Zion Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
Girls Water Polo
East Kentwood @ Saline


Monday, April 15
Boys Golf
South Christian vs FH Northern – Forest Hills Invite @ Egypt Valley
Tri-Unity Christian vs Muskegon Catholic Central @ Muskegon Country Club
Girls Tennis
Christian @ South Christian
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
East Kentwood @ Rockford
Boys Lacrosse
Comstock Park @ South Christian
East Kentwood @ Jenison
Girls Soccer
South Christian @ East Grand Rapids
Wayland @ Wyoming
Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
Comstock Park @ Tri-Unity Christian
WMAES @ Zion Christian
Boys Baseball
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
Girls Softball
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee – DH
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins — DH
Boys / Girls Track
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood

Harmonious Darlingside to re-visit Spring Lake’s Save Steps Up on Monday, April 15

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events,
Darlingside is bassist Dave Senft, guitarist and banjo player Don Mitchell, classical violinist and folk mandolinist Auyon Mukharji, and cellist and guitarist Harris Paseltiner. (supplied/Gaelle Beri)

WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

If you haven’t seen and heard the harmonic perfection of the quartet Darlingside — maybe the best alt-folk band you may have never heard of — your missing something special if you can’t snag some tickets to the group’s performance at Seven Steps Up, Monday, April 15, in-between gigs at Toronto and Chicago.

The group, which visited the venue last year and hit the Meijer Gardens summer concert stage a couple years ago, are buzzing through West Michigan in support of their new EP Look Up & Fly Away, as well as their outstanding 2018 album Extralife. (And if you haven’t heard Extralife, you missed one of last year’s most best and original releases.)

Released on Feb. 22, Look Up & Fly Away is comprised of six songs selected from a handful of outtakes from Extralife and, according to supplied material, has the band “exploring the different stages of life and death and continuing to spotlight the group’s poetic and timeless ability to capture complex, ecumenical topics.

“Stretching the boundaries of traditional folk, chamber pop, baroque, progressive and indie rock, Darlingside melds various styles together to create something not easily categorized and very much their own.”

Like Extralife, the EP will undoubtedly feature Darlingside’s signature hypnotic harmonies — often using a single mic for the four voices, sparse instrumentation, and almost mystic songwriting — think space music that does not put you to sleep.

Darlingside, especially on Extralife, was said to be reminiscent of The Beach Boys, Fleet Foxes and Simon & Garfunkel. Rolling Stone Country said the album is, “…both fresh and familiar, like some throwback piece of orchestral folk-pop recently removed from the vault.”

The Extralife single “Hold Your Head Up High” was recently nominated for the 2019 “International Song of the Year” UK Americana Award.

Seven Steps Up, by the way, is a great small concert venue in Spring Lake, at 116 S. Jackson Street. While the concert is officially listed as a sold-out, it does not hurt to check, call 616-930-4755 or visit sevenstepsup.com . And there are plenty of great acts coming to the venue in the near future.

Three-time Grammy Award winner from Grand Rapids returns for Mahler’s Third Symphony

Entertainment
Three-time Grammy Award winner Michelle DeYoung joins the Grand Rapids Symphony this weekend for a performance of Mahler’s music. (Supplied)

Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk
Grand Rapids Symphony

Gustav Mahler loved nature.

One of the greatest conductors of his time, Mahler spent the fall, winter and spring on the podium. In the summer, he escaped to the Austrian countryside to compose. At the edge of a meadow, with a view of a lake and the Alpine mountains in the distance, Mahler had built a tiny hut with a desk, a piano and a book shelf where he would compose most of his greatest music including his Symphony No. 3 in D major.

Grand Rapids Symphony will assemble its largest musical ensemble of the season for Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 on Friday, April 12, and Saturday, April 13, at 8 p.m. in DeVos Performance Hall. The concert is the ninth program of the 2018-19 Richard and Helen DeVos Classical series.

Music Director Marcelo Lehninger will lead nearly 250 musicians in the performance of Mahler’s Third Symphony including 100 instrumentalists plus the women of the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus, and the voices of the Grand Rapids Symphony Junior Chorus, and Mandala, a select ensemble from the Grand Rapids Symphony Youth Chorus.

Special guest is mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung, a three-time Grammy Award winner regarded as one of today’s finest interpreters of the music of Mahler. In fact, one of her three Grammy Awards is the 2003 award for Best Classical Album for her recording of Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 and his Kindertotenlieder with Michael Tilson Thomas and the San Francisco Symphony.

DeYoung, who was born in Grand Rapids and who later attended Calvin College, makes her first appearance with the Grand Rapids Symphony since January 2005 during the orchestra’s 75th anniversary season. Guest Artist Sponsor is Edith I. Blodgett Guest Artist Fund.

Mahler’s Symphony No. 3, which lasts 100 minutes, will be the only piece on the program.

The Grand Rapids-born Michelle DeYoung will
Michelle DeYoung was burned in Grand Rapids. (Supplied)

“It’s one of the longest symphonies ever written,” Lehninger said. “But it’s so colorful, and there’s so many things happening, you’re never tired of it.”

Mahler, who enjoyed long walks in the countryside, was devoted to nature. The outdoors is a continuing theme in his music.  In the summer of 1896, the young conductor Bruno Walter paid a visit to Mahler in the little Alpine village of Steinbach am Attersee. As Walter stood there admiring the beautiful mountain scenery, Mahler told him, “You needn’t stand staring at that. I’ve already composed it all.”

Mahler was speaking of his Third Symphony, which encapsulates his entire cosmology and is the longest symphony that he ever wrote. “A symphony must be like the world. It must embrace everything,” he said.

Completed 1896, it was voted one of the 10 greatest symphonies of all time in a poll of more than 100 professional conductors held in 2016 by BBC Music Magazine. That list was topped by Beethoven’s “Eroica” Symphony No. 3 and his “Choral” Symphony No. 9 plus Mozart’s “Jupiter” Symphony No. 41.

In 2011, the adagio from Mahler’s Third Symphony was arranged for small orchestra by conductor Yoon Jae Lee and premiered in New York City by Ensemble 212 on the eve of the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

“It has become a huge part of my life,” DeYoung said about the music of Mahler in a 2017 interview at the Aspen Music Festival. “I love the emotional journey that he takes you on.  In the symphonies, in the songs, in everything, if you allow yourself to go with it, you can really experience a very wide range of emotions throughout the one piece.”

“But he almost always, in symphonies and songs, ends with hope,” she added.

Michelle DeYoung, who was born in Grand Rapids while her father attended Calvin Theological Seminary, appears frequently with many of the world’s leading orchestras, including the New York and Los Angeles Philharmonics, the Boston and Chicago Symphony Orchestras and the Cleveland Orchestra. Elsewhere, she has performed with the Vienna Philharmonic, the Orchestre de Paris, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in the Netherlands, and the Sao Paulo Symphony in Brazil. In opera, she has appeared as Dalila in Samson et Dalila, Brangäne in Tristan und Isolde; Herodias in Salome; Amneris in Aida; and as Fricka, Sieglinde and Waltraute in Wagner’s The Ring Cycle in such international opera houses as La Scala, Bayreuth Festival, Berliner Staatsoper, Opera National de Paris, and Tokyo Opera as well as in The Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago and Seattle Opera in the United States.

Her past appearances with the Grand Rapids Symphony include Hector Berlioz’ The Damnation of Faust with the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus and Opera Grand Rapids Chorus in October 2003, and Mahler’s Das Lied von der Erde during the orchestra’s 75th anniversary season in January 2005.

About 80 women from the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus, directed by Pearl Shangkuan, will participate in the performance. Another 60 young singers including high school-age singers from the Grand Rapids Symphony Youth Chorus’s select ensemble, Mandala, and fourth, fifth and sixth graders from the Youth Chorus’s Junior Chorus, directed by Jackie Sonderfan-Schoon, also will perform.

  • Inside the Music, a free, pre-concert, multi-media presentation sponsored by BDO USA, will be held before each performance at 7 p.m. in the DeVos Place Recital Hall.
  • The complete Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 program will be rebroadcast on Sunday, May 19, 2019, at 1 p.m. on Blue Lake Public Radio 88.9 FM or 90.3 FM.


Tickets


Tickets for the Richard and Helen DeVos Classical series start at $18 and are available at the Grand Rapids Symphony box office, weekdays 9 am – 5 pm at 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, (located across the street from Calder Plaza). Call (616) 454-9451 x 4 to order by phone. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum).

Tickets are available at the DeVos Place ticket office, weekdays 10 am – 6 pm or on the day of the concert beginning two hours before the performance. Tickets also may be purchased online at GRSymphony.org.

Snapshots: Kentwood, Wyoming news you need to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org


Quote of the Day

“A day without laughter is a day wasted.”
 
                                 ― Silent Movie Star Charlie Chaplin
Summer leagues are now forming at both the Kentwood and Wyoming Parks and Recreation Departments. (Supplied)

Warmer weather = more fun

Both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming have released spring/summer brochures with a host of activities available. There is a league for just about everything from volleyball to baseball along with fitness activities, day trips and more. Curious, well then click here to check out Wyoming’s brochure and for Kentwood’s, visit the story by clicking here.



According to scientists and some users, Lake Michigan is seeing an impact from global warming. (Supplied)

Water, water everywhere

Tomorrow, the Kent District Library kicks off the series “Oceans, Lakes, and Streams: Protecting Water Globally and Locally,” which focuses on our waterways. Tomorrow’s program, which starts at 6:30 p.m. at the KDL Kentwood Branch, features Dr. David E. Guggenheim, known as “The Ocean Doctor,” discussing the “State of the Oceans.” The program is free. For more, click here.


An Allegiant Airlines plan at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Supplied/Ford International Airport)

Head South

Let’s be honest, the threat of snow has us all wishing we could head south for warmer weather. Good news! Allegiant now offers non-stop service to Sarasota from Grand Rapids. Bonus: to celebrate the airlines is offering a special airfare rate making it possible for you to head there right now, if you wanted to. For more, click here.



Fun fact:

38

That is the number of parks/trails that the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood have combined. Wyoming maintains 21 which range from the Buck Creek Nature Trail to Lamar Park, home of the Wyoming’s Concerts in the Park. Kentwood has Jaycee Park, famous for its Disc Golf site, and Kelloggs Wood Park, which has a dog park. As the weather warms up, now is the time to enjoy these lovely assets of the cities.

Kentwood to host family-friendly, educational Limb Loss Awareness 5K on April 27

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Non-Profits, Recreation, Sports

By City of Kentwood

In conjunction with Limb Loss Awareness Month, the City of Kentwood is again partnering with Hanger Clinic — a local prosthetic and orthotic patient care provider — to offer the second annual Limb Loss Awareness 5K race on Saturday, April 27.

Open to people of all abilities, the family friendly event will continue to raise funds for Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs, which exist to provide people of all abilities a chance to recreate in a positive and safe environment.

The race route will include sections of the East-West and Paul Henry-Thornapple Trails. Packet pick-up is at 9 a.m. followed by the start of the clock-timed race at 10 a.m.

Jessica Curtis, whose right leg was amputated below the knee five years ago, will share her story before the race kicks off. Curtis was born with one leg shorter than the other and went through numerous leg-lengthening procedures before electing to have her leg amputated. Now fitted with a custom-designed prosthetic leg, Jessica is able to be more active and will be walking the 5K with her family. As a certified peer visitor through Hanger Clinic’s nationwide AMPOWER program, Curtis is a supportive listening ear and confidant for others who are on an amputation journey.

“We are honored Jessica will share her story with the community at the Limb Loss Awareness 5K, and hope it inspires others to do the same,” said Katelyn Bush, Kentwood recreation program coordinator. “The addition of a speaker is one of several new features planned this year to really set the tone for the event as inclusive, educational and fun for everyone involved.”

This year’s event will include a one-mile fun run just for kids beginning and ending at Bowen Station Park, 4499 Bowen Boulevard SE. Kids who participate will receive a t-shirt and ribbon. Top finishers will be awarded medals. The kids’ race will start at 11 a.m. and costs $5 per child. Also new this year will be a bounce house, face painting, games and food trucks.

At 9:45 a.m., individuals who have experienced limb loss will be encouraged to participate in taking photos for #ShowYourMettle, a social media campaign organized by the Amputee Coalition that will take place the same day of the race. The Amputee Coalition’s “Show Your Mettle Day” emboldens amputees to proudly wear and show their prosthetic and/or assistive devices.

Hanger Clinic Community Care Coordinator Nikki Stoner says the event is a great way for individuals who have experienced limb loss to connect with others in the amputee community.

As an amputee herself, Stoner knows just how important it is to have a strong support network when experiencing limb loss. Since having her leg amputated after experiencing a gunshot wound on the opening day of deer hunting season almost 25 years ago, limb loss awareness and support of fellow amputees has been a passion for Stoner.

“Whenever I meet a new amputee, I always say, ‘welcome to the family!’,” Stoner said. “Being able to truly empathize, to say I understand because I’ve been through it, makes a big difference in helping someone through their amputation journey. It is incredibly impactful when the limb loss community gathers together for an event like this.”

The day will feature several educational components. Signs with facts about limb loss and amputation will be placed throughout the race course. When participants are not racing, they can learn about amputation at community booths.

Hanger Clinic will have one of Winter the dolphin’s prosthetic tails for kids to look at and touch as an interactive learning experience. Winter is the dolphin that lost her tail after it became entangled in a crab trap in 2005. In 2006, Kevin Carroll, an expert prosthetist and vice president of prosthetics at Hanger Clinic heard her story and offered to fit her with a prosthetic tail that would allow Winter to swim again. Her movie debut in “Dolphin Tale” premiered on Sept. 23, 2011.

In addition, Hanger Clinic will have other prosthetics, as well as orthotics, on hand to show people how they are made and answer questions. Spectrum Health, Advanced Cardiac & Vascular Amputation Prevention Centers and College Park Industries will also have booths on-site.

Race results will be put on display at Bowen Station Park and posted online shortly after the race. Four first place awards will be given to the first adult men and women amputees and non-amputees who cross the finish line. The event is set to conclude at 1 p.m.

Registration for the 5K is $30 in advance at runsignup.com or $35 on race day. Registrants will receive a t-shirt and goodie bag.

Race organizers are also seeking volunteers for the event. Those interested may sign up online.

School News Network: PH.D.-bound college student shares her journey through science with high school students

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, ,

By Erin Albanese
School News Network

Michigan State University senior Gabby Huizenga has tinkered with cells, experimented with environmental toxins and hypothesized complex scientific theories about disease — but she still has time to remember her roots.

The Wyoming High School Class of 2015 graduate visited science classes recently to share the pathway she took from high school to a Ph.D. program, and how other young science lovers can take similar routes in pursuing their goals.

Michigan State University senior and Wyoming High School graduate Gabby Huizinga returns to Wyoming to talk about opportunities to go far in science

Huizenga said the hours she spent in MSU research labs — not to mention changing her major a few times– has led her to where she is now: enrolled in the Immunology Postgraduate Doctoral Degree program at University of Michigan. She was accepted into several colleges’ programs before choosing U of M. After listening to her story, Wyoming students asked her about college, financial resources, ways to get involved, and courses to take now and in college.

“I really want to get them excited about science and research and share one particular path they can take,” Huizinga said. “One of the things I didn’t realize is that for a Ph.D., instead of you paying them they pay you. I think that is a great opportunity.” (Many universities fully fund doctoral students with tuition covered and a stipend.)

While finishing up her undergraduate degree, Huizinga is involved in research for MSU assistant professor Andrew Olive, in the Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics. She’s studying how humans and animals interact with invading bacteria or viruses and experimenting with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. The research could eventually lead to a new tuberculosis drug.

“We are trying to figure out why only five percent of people who are affected with the bacteria actually get TB,” she said.

She’s also researched toxic chemicals produced when waste is incinerated.  “We’re wondering if we can use bacteria to clean up the chemicals in the soil because they are really cheap to produce and really efficient,” she said.

Gabby Huizinga is researching the bacteria that causes tuberculosis

High School Students, Take Note

Huizinga said taking AP classes and other challenging courses at Wyoming, where she graduated as co-valedictorian, helped prepare her for college. But learning about myriad options  once at MSU led her to explore different paths before choosing a double major in microbiology and molecular genomics and genetics.

She will graduate in May and take the direct route to her Ph.D.

“My dream job would be to be a research professor at a large research institution,” Huizinga said.

Huizinga encouraged students to get involved in college life and offerings in order to make the most of their years there. Attending a diverse school like Wyoming led her to get involved in the honors college multicultural program, Mosaic.

“Attending Wyoming gave me a huge appreciation for the world I don’t think a lot of other students had,” she said, noting she “found her people” through Mosaic.

Junior Lio Matias said it’s interesting to hear about options from a recent Wyoming graduate. “It’s helpful hearing how far she’s come,” he said.

Stephanie Rathsack, who teaches AP biology, honors chemistry and chemistry, said a college student’s point of view and knowledge is valuable to high schoolers.

“It’s nice to hear from someone who is closer in age to them, who can answer questions in a small group setting,” Rathsack said.

Added Superintendent Craig Hoekstra, “I think this is a great opportunity for our students to hear from one of our former students about their Wyoming experience, and the importance of making the most of every life experience to achieve what one sets out to accomplish.”

For more local school news, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.

Gabby Huizinga’s undergraduate experience included research on dioxins. (School News Network.)

Tillage and squash bees: Protect your best source for pollination in your squash fields

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, How-To's, Pets/Animals, , ,

By Zsofia Szendrei, Michigan State University Extension, Department of Entomology


The Michigan State University Vegetable Entomology Lab started researching squash pollination two years ago when the USDA Organic Research and Extension Initiative funded a project that focused on all aspects of squash management. One of our goals was to learn about the impact of management practices on a little-known native pollinator that specializes in pollinating winter and summer squash: the squash bee.


The squash bee is a unique insect because it naturally occurs in most squash productions in Michigan and must find squash pollen to feed its young. The female creates nests in the ground and our project focused on finding out how soil disturbance impacts squash bees.


Watch our new 3-minute video on tillage and squash bees to learn more about this topic, and enjoy the animations created by our talented collaborator, Holly Hooper, MSU Entomology graduate student. Thanks to Joy Landis and colleagues from MSU College of Agriculture and Natural ResourcesCommunications & Marketing for helping us create this video. Follow us on Twitter @msuvegent!


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

GVSU economist: Slow growth continues, optimism retreats

3-bottom, ,
Brian Long is a local business forecaster. Credit: GVSU

By Dottie Barnes
Grand Valley State University

West Michigan’s recovery from the Great Recession began 10 years ago this month and it continues at the same slow pace since 2009, said Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business.

Long surveyed local business leaders and his findings below are based on data collected during the last two weeks of March.

The survey’s index of business improvement (new orders) remained virtually unchanged at +17, up from +16. The production index retreated to +5 from +16. The index of purchases waned to +4 from +16, and the employment index declined slightly to +15 from +17.

Business confidence rebounded in February after posting near-record lows in January, Long said, but March saw that optimism fade. 

“Short-term confidence for March slipped for a number of reasons — no resolution to the Chinese trade war, Brexit, the softening world economy and retreating monthly auto sales,” said Long.

The long-term business outlook (perception for the next three-to-five years), remained steady at +28, up marginally from February’s +27. 

Long added that auto sales are continuing to fall as predicted, but West Michigan auto parts producers are not feeling pinched. “Just as it has been for many months, the decline in auto sales has been very orderly, so far,” he said.

The Institute for Supply Management survey is a monthly survey of business conditions that includes 45 purchasing managers in the greater Grand Rapids area and 25 in Kalamazoo. The respondents are from the region’s major industrial manufacturers, distributors and industrial service organizations. It is patterned after a nationwide survey conducted by the Institute for Supply Management. Each month, the respondents are asked to rate eight factors as “same,” “up” or “down.”

Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation spring, summer adult rec programs beginning

City of Kentwood, Going Local, Recreation, Sports
The City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department is taking registrations for its spring/summer softball leagues. (WKTV)

By Drew Dargavell, WKTV Sports Intern
ken@wktv.org

As the weather begins to heat up, The City of Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department’s outdoor adult sports leagues and fitness programs are beginning. And the city has plenty of sports leagues to offer adults, ages 18 and up, whether you want to play for fun, be active and social, or to play competitively there is a variety of leagues and competition levels to offer.

 
“Our sports and fitness programs help promote healthy lifestyles and encourage adults to stay active, not to mention they are a great way to meet new people,” Spencer McKellar, Kentwood recreation program coordinator, said to WKTV.

Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department’s spring leagues start in April and May, while the summer leagues begin in June and July. They offer both recreational and competitive women-only leagues, men-only leagues, and Co-Ed leagues, depending on the sport.
 

“We’re always thinking of exciting ways to broaden our community offerings with new classes catered to a variety of ability levels and interests,” McKellar said. “We encourage those interested in participating in sports and fitness programs to register early, as we do offer early bird rates for select classes.”

Some of the popular sports Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department (KPRD) has to offer are:

Recreational and competitive 11-v-11 co-ed, and 9-v-9 women’s soccer, taking place at Veteran’s, Pinewood, and Kellogg Woods parks. Registration closes April 29 for the spring leagues.

Co-ed 4-on-4 sand volleyball at Veteran’s Park sand volleyball court, which ends with a post-season tournament and a big cookout. Spring registration closes April 26.

Co-ed and mens softball at Kellogg Woods Park. The 10 game season ends with a post-season tournament. Spring leagues start the week of April 15, and summer on the week of July 29.

And new this year, KPRD is offering double-header softball leagues at Kellogg Woods Park. This league is 10 weeks and 20 total games, and ends with a post-season tournament. Spring leagues begin April 15 and summer leagues on July 29.

There are also many more leagues, clubs, programs and classes you can get involved in with KPRD.

To register now, you can visit Kentwood Parks and Recreations website at kentwood.us/parks or you can reach them at 616-656-5270.

Employment Expertise: Skills veterans bring to civilian careers

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces,

By West Michigan Works!


U.S. veterans return from duty with knowledge, skills and abilities that employers are looking for in their workforce. Here are some transferrable skills that veterans bring to civilian jobs:

  1. TEAMWORK: Most military activities are performed with the help or coordination of others. Veterans have learned to collaborate with others to complete tasks and stay safe. Veterans who have served as team leaders have learned to evaluate situations, make decisions quickly and accept the consequences of those decisions, good or bad. 
  2. FLEXIBILITY AND ADAPTABILITY: Life in the military is ever-changing. Service members learn to adapt to the changing needs of any situation while remaining calm and moving towards the goal.
  3. EDUCATION: All service members are required to have a high school diploma or GED. Many have college degrees as well.
  4. CRITICAL THINKING: Service members are trained to examine the results and consequences of a specific action. They learn to use reason and evidence to make decisions and solve complex problems.
  5. WORK ETHIC: In the military, mission comes first. Service members are recognized for finishing their missions in a timely and effective manner. They learn to take responsibility for their duties and complete them with minimal supervision.
  6. LEADERSHIP: The military’s focus on duty, honor and responsibility give veterans leadership skills that are highly valued by employers. They have been taught to take responsibility for other people, activities and their own behavior and to motivate others to achieve results.
  7. GLOBAL OUTLOOK: Service members are stationed across the globe, exposing them to different cultures, economies and languages. Veterans can bring a diverse outlook and new ideas to the workplace.

Veterans who need help translating their military skills, qualifications and experience to their job search can visit a West Michigan Works! service center to be connected to a veterans representative. 


Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.

Kentwood to celebrate senior health and fitness at annual expo

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Senior Living, Upcoming Events
Kentwood’s annual Senior Expo is coming later this month. (Courtesy/Vista Springs Assisted Living)


By City of Kentwood

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department will host the 20th Annual Spotlight on Seniors Health & Fitness Expo in partnership with Georgetown Seniors on Tuesday, April 23 — an event which will include more than 70 vendors, free health screenings and lunch.

All are invited to connect with others, learn about local services, and enjoy free snacks, lunch, and giveaways at the free-to-attend event, which will take place from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Kentwood Activities Center, located at 355 48th St. SE.

“Our annual Spotlight on Seniors expo is about celebrating our seniors and connecting them with resources to promote healthy living,” said Lorraine Beloncis, Kentwood Parks and Recreation assistant director. “We are grateful for the opportunity to create a valuable and enriching experience for both familiar faces and new folks each year thanks to the support of our sponsors, vendors and the Georgetown Seniors.”

Attendees will be able to visit more than 70 vendors from a variety of senior-oriented businesses and receive free health screenings for balance, blood pressure, hearing and more. Door prizes, free snacks and a boxed lunch will also be offered.

“The strong partnership between Georgetown and Kentwood Seniors has allowed us to provide a truly resourceful event for both communities,” said Pam Haverdink, director of the Georgetown Senior Center. “This expo is a great opportunity for seniors to learn more about their health, inspire movement and fitness, and mingle with friends.”

Participating vendors include the Kentwood Police Department, AARP, Area Agency on Aging, Kent District Library and the Michigan Attorney General.  Others participating include professionals knowledgeable in everything from physical therapy and assisted living, to home improvement and legal aid.

“We are so thankful for our vendors,” said Haverdink. “They make the expo a fun and exciting event that seniors can look forward to every year.”

The gold sponsors of the 20th Annual Spotlight on Seniors Health & Fitness Expo are Sheldon Meadows Assisted Living Center, Health Bridge Post-Acute Rehabilitation and Ready Ride Transportation. Silver sponsors are Vista Springs Assisted Living Memory Care and We Care 4 U @ Home.

Expo organizers always welcome volunteers. Those interested should contact Beloncis at 616-656-5278 or beloncisl@kentwood.us.

Allegiant starts nonstop service from Grand Rapids to Sarasota

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An Allegiant Airlines plan at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Supplied/Ford International Airport)

By Tara Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Allegiant(NASDAQ: ALGT) begins service today from Grand Rapids to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) beginning April 5, 2019. To celebrate, the company is offering fares on the new route as low as $55 each way*.

“We are excited to begin service to Sarasota/Bradenton from Grand Rapids,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant vice president of planning and revenue. “This beautiful destination offers fun for everyone in the family, and we’re sure that area travelers will enjoy getting away on these convenient, nonstop, ultra-low-cost flights.”

The new year-round flights will operate twice weekly. With the addition of this new route, Allegiant will now serve seven cities from Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR). Beginning in June, the company will also operate an aircraft base at GRR. Also in June, Allegiant will add service to Nashville, Tennessee and Savannah, Georgia. Flight days, times and the lowest fares can be found only at Allegiant.com. 

“We are thrilled to add a seventh Allegiant destination to our route map, and our ninth destination in Florida,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Interim President & CEO Brian Picardat. “We had a long winter, and starting service to Florida’s Gulf Coast is a great treat to kick us into spring. We are thankful that our partners at Allegiant recognize the growth opportunities in Grand Rapids and continue to invest their services in our market.”

Allegiant offers a unique option to Grand Rapids-area travelers with low base fares and savings on rental carsand hotels. Travelers can book their entire vacation with Allegiant for less. 

*About the introductory fares:

Price displayed reflects purchase of a round-trip itinerary and includes taxes, carrier charges and government fees. Seats and dates are limited and fares are not available on all flights. Flights must be purchased by April 7, 2019 for travel by June 28, 2019. Price displayed reflects purchase of a round-trip itinerary and includes taxes, carrier charges & government fees. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Optional baggage charges and additional restrictions may apply. For more details, optional services and baggage fees, please visit Allegiant.com.

Allegiant®Las Vegas-based Allegiant (NASDAQ: ALGT) is focused on linking travelers to world-class leisure destinations. The airline offers industry-low fares on an all-jet fleet while also offering other travel-related products such as hotel rooms and rental cars. All can be purchased only through the company website, Allegiant.com. Beginning with one aircraft and one route in 1999, the company has grown to over 80 aircraft and more than 400 routes across the country with base airfares less than half the cost of the average domestic round-trip ticket. For downloadable press kit, including photos, visit: http://gofly.us/ToZT30iauev.

Conquer your sleep issues

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Sleep well with these doctor-approved techniques that calm the mind… and hormones. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum HealthBeat

 

Many of the women who come to our midlife and menopause clinic have a common problem: sleep issues.

 

As an OB/Gyn doctor who still delivers babies, I admit I don’t always get as much sleep as I should, but I do strive to get my seven to eight hours most nights.

 

Also, as a doctor, I am well aware of the problems people often encounter as a result of poor sleep habits: decreased cognitive function (also known as brain fog), difficulty remembering things, decreased job performance, and an increased chance of having a vehicle accident.

 

If you aren’t sleeping well, your overall quality of life suffers, and you may feel less motivated to follow a healthy and active lifestyle. This, in turn, can cause mood disturbances such as anxiety and depression. You may not suffer from major depression, but even having an underlying sense of dread or being in a bad mood is not a healthy way to live your life.

Having a hard time sleeping?

It may make you feel better to know that you’re not alone. In fact, about 69 percent of people have sleep problems, and women have 50 percent more problems with sleep than men.

 

Nearly 20 percent of people have chronic sleep issues that can cause serious medical risks, especially if they average less than six hours per night and have poor quality sleep. Some of these health threats include an increased risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

 

These are serious health issues for people of all ages, but for women who are also navigating their way through menopause, sleep issues add more stress to an already difficult time in their lives.

 

So, why do sleep problems become worse during midlife and menopause, and what can you do to start getting more (and better) sleep?

 

The answer to the first question has to do with hormones. My experience with helping women in midlife and menopause has shown that a common pattern develops in women during this time, especially as their hormones start to change.

 

Even if your periods are regular, as you get older, your hormones can change three days before your period, causing night sweats. Early in the transition, you might not even think you are having night sweats, but waking three nights in a row in the middle of the night can actually be a slight nighttime hot flash.

 

Unfortunately, what happens to we busy women is that we turn a simple night of waking up into a catastrophe that may look something like this:

 

“OMG—I’m awake! I cannot afford to be awake. Oh geez, I have to pee, but I don’t want to get up to pee. Now I really have to pee, but if I get up, I might not be able to fall back asleep. What should I do? Oh, I will just lie here. Well, that is not working. Toss, turn, toss, turn. Fine—I will get up! Now that I’m up and can’t sleep, maybe I should clean, or check email, or watch TV, or check Facebook. Maybe then I will feel tired.”

 

Of course, then you fall back asleep at 4:30 a.m. or so, and the alarm goes off at 5:30 or 6 a.m. You wake up and you feel stressed, cranky and craving sugar.

 

Does this scenario sound familiar? If so, you know how poor sleep makes you feel, and it’s not good. To make matters worse, as women progress into perimenopause and then into menopause, the symptoms can stretch from happening three days a month to every night.

 

The result is what I call a hot mess.

What can I do about it?

Don’t fret. There is hope.

 

There are several treatments for sleep disorders, but it really comes down to how well you follow the recommendations and treatment guidelines from your physician. It’s important to treat any medical conditions, such as snoring, sleep apnea and obesity, that may be causing your sleep issues to worsen.

 

I talk to patients about using hormone replacement therapy for improving sleep issues. Such therapy is not a sleep medicine, but it can reduce hot flashes and night sweats, thereby reducing nighttime waking events.

 

We also discuss sleep hygiene, which includes developing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding stimulation such as caffeine or screen time before sleep, avoiding naps longer than 20 minutes in the afternoon, and keeping a regular exercise schedule of at least 20 minutes per day.

 

Probably the most effective recommendation I make for my patients is to make time each night before bed for metered breathing.

 

If you’re not familiar with this technique, here’s a quick explanation: Find a peaceful place in your house, outside of the bedroom. I call this your Zen spot. Turn on a low light and get into a comfortable position. Close your mouth, open your eyes, stare at a particular spot in the room, and just breathe. Breathing should not deep or forced. It should be relaxed.

 

Be aware of the sound of your breath. As you are aware of your breathing and focused on one visual stimuli, your mind will become still. If an annoying thought or worry enters your mind, simply think about it for a second and then go back to the sound of your breath.

 

Do this for five minutes, then go straight to bed, close your eyes and enter dreamland.

 

It may take several nights of practice before it works effectively. If you wake in the middle of the night and can’t fall back asleep, go to your Zen spot and do your metered breathing.

 

You will be pleasantly surprised how well it works.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum HealthBeat.

7 Energizing foods for spring

3-bottom, Community Health, Food, Health, How-To's, Senior Living,
Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living

By Vista Springs Assisted Living


Finally, the sun is shining, and the grass looks greener if you squint: spring is officially here! For many people, ditching the winter blues in favor of longer days means brighter moods and higher energy, but a little boost never hurt in getting the most out of warmer weather. Here are seven of our favorite heart-healthy, energy-boosting foods to kick-start your spring.

1. Whole grains

Whole grains are great sources of long-lasting energy that powers you throughout the day. Refined grains, such as white flour and white rice, lose about 25% of the protein contained in the whole grain, and contain significantly smaller amounts of at least 17 key nutrients. Eat hearty whole wheat toast in the morning or a delicious quinoa salad, full of antioxidants, for lunch. The carbs from these whole grains provide your body with a slow-burning energy source that also doesn’t cause your blood sugar to spike, giving you consistent energy all day long.

2. Asparagus

Fresh, succulent asparagus is a spring favorite, and it’s full of energy- and health-boosting nutrients that your body craves. Asparagus is full of fiber, which may help lower cholesterol, vitamin K for bone strength, and folate, a mood-boosting vitamin to lift your spirits and your energy levels. It’s also incredibly versatile — grill it, bake it, or saute it, and serve it beside lean proteins or in pasta dishes for a scrumptious and nutritious meal. In the Midwest, fresh-picked asparagus is available from April through June, and the sooner it gets from field to plate, the more delicious it is!

3. Dark chocolate

Easter is approaching fast, and grocery store aisles are reflecting the date with displays of pastel colors and chocolate. And while that sugar-loaded milk chocolate bunny isn’t going to do your body any favors, indulging in dark chocolate as a snack or dessert can do wonders for your energy and mood. Eating a square or two of dark chocolate is great as a pick-me-up in the afternoon, as the small amounts of caffeine can jump start your body without the crash. Dark chocolate also contains flavanols, heart-healthy flavanoids that reduce blood pressure and increase blood flow to the brain.

4. Cold-water fish

Fishing seasons in the Midwest generally open in mid- to late-spring, and fatty, cold-water fish can be extremely beneficial for senior nutrition in general, and energy levels specifically. Not only are cold-water fish full of protein to keep you alert and full, but they’re also packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids that lower cholesterol, and riboflavin and niacin, which help you process food more effectively into energy. While fried fish is undeniably delicious, try it grilled or baked for a healthier meal that’s still full of flavor. For added fun, get a fishing license and serve your own catch to family and friends!

5. Mushrooms

Morel hunting is a favorite Michigan pastime, but eating them is even better. Mushrooms, and not just morels, are high in iron and fiber, and have more protein than most vegetables. There are a wide variety of mushrooms that can be used in many different cuisines and dishes, making it easy to add variety while reaping the benefits of these yummy fungi. If you can get your hands on some spring morels, try a hearty mushroom soup. Add mushrooms to your gravies, stir-fries, omelettes, and more to add fantastic savory flavor.

6. Eggs

While eggs and mushrooms don’t seem all that similar, eggs are also champions of versatility that are chock-full of protein. They sometimes get a bad rap for being contributors to high cholesterol, but while you should be aware of how much dietary cholesterol you have in your diet, saturated fats are much more likely to impact your risk of heart disease. Hard-boiled eggs are a great snack on their own, or as toppings on sandwiches and salads. Eat them scrambled (with your whole grain toast) in the morning to start your day with protein.

7. Water

Yes, water’s not really a food, but staying hydrated and getting enough water throughout the day is key to all other aspects of senior nutrition and health. The old 8×8 rule, or eight ounces of water, eight times a day, is a good rule of thumb, but recommended intake varies based on age, gender, and activity level. Plain old water is a great option for everyone (especially if you’re watching your weight) but you can also mix it up with coffee or tea. Just be sure to stay away from sugar-laden drinks, such as fruit juices, sodas, alcoholic beverages, and sweet coffee drinks, as sugar is a fast-burning energy source that can cause you to crash, and they tend to add a huge amount of calories to your diet without also contributing nutrients.


This spring, try incorporating some or all of these foods into your diet for energy that lasts you all day. With higher energy levels and a brighter mood, you’ll be ready for a full of life spring!


Reprinted with permission from Vista Springs Assisted Living.

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood things to do this weekend, beyond

3-bottom, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events

By WKTV Staff
Ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“I am going to keep having fun every day I have left, because there is no other way of life. You just have to decide whether you are a Tigger or an Eeyore.”
 
                                              ― Randy Pausch
Thompson Square is the husband-and-wife duo Keifer and Shawna Thompson. (Supplied)

A little Friday night music

The country duo Thompson Square makes at stop at the college’s Covenant Fine Arts Center, on Friday, April 5, at 8 p.m., for an acoustic — and tickets are just $25. For the complete story, visit here.



The poster for the film fest.

Catch the next ‘Roma’?

The Grand Rapids Latin American Film Festival will run this weekend, April 5-7, at the Wealthy Theatre, 1130 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, with free admission but donations are appreciated. For the complete story, visit here.


Grammy Award winning country-swing band Asleep at the Wheel. (Supplied)

Roadtrippin’ Asleep at the Wheel

St. Cecilia Music Center’s Acoustic Café Folk series will present Asleep at the Wheel, 10 GRAMMY Award winners with more than 25 studio and live albums to their 48-year history, onThursday, April 11. For the complete story, visit here.



Fun fact:

50.88 Billion

Country amassed 50.88 billion streams in 2018, a 46 percent inflation over the 2017 numbers. That performance slightly outpaced the overall industry, which counted 901 billion streams, a 43 percent increase. (Source)

Pine Rest to participate in National Institute On Aging study

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Eric Achtyes, M.D., M.S., D.F.A.P.A.
(photo supplied)

By Colleen Cullison, Pine Rest


Pine Rest has been chosen as one of five organizations to participate in a National Institute on Aging study.


The 5-year study will investigate the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to treat severe agitation and aggression in people with Alzheimer’s disease. The study was made possible by a 5-year award which is expected to total $11.8 million from the National Institute on Aging (NIA). 


Researchers at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School Affiliate, will lead the study. Pine Rest will receive a $1.3 million sub-award for the study from McLean. The NIA, part of the National Institutes of Health, leads scientific efforts to study aging and Alzheimer’s disease.


The study will be the first randomized, double-blind, controlled study of ECT for agitation and aggression in Alzheimer’s dementia. It will compare how ECT treatment plus standard treatments, such as antipsychotic medications and behavioral therapies, compares with standard therapies alone for individuals with Alzheimer’s dementia with severe aggression and anxiety.


For the study, 200 patients will be enrolled across the five sites. The study will be open to older adults or individuals who have been admitted to the inpatient geriatric psychiatry units of any of the five participating sites and who have moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s disease, are experiencing agitation and aggression, and who have not been responsive to other forms of treatment. Enrollment is expected to begin in spring 2019.


“We have been interested in the use of ECT for the treatment of advanced dementia for many years and have been offering this treatment to patients and families for a long time,” said Eric Achtyes, M.D., M.S., D.F.A.P.A., staff psychiatrist, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, and Michigan State University – College of Human Medicine, associate professor and chair, department of psychiatry west.


“Several years ago, we conducted a pilot study of ECT in this patient population which showed promising results for reducing agitation associated with dementia,” Achtyes said. “Now, thanks to this grant, we will be able to conduct a definitive study to assess the benefits and risks of using ECT for these individuals and the families who care for them.”

Dr. Louis Nykamp
(photo supplied)

“Agitation and even aggression are unfortunately common in the context of the brain changes which occur in the late stages of Alzheimer’s dementia,” said Dr. Louis Nykamp, Pine Rest’s geriatric fellowship director and electroconvulsive therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation clinic director.


“Many people can think of a family member or friend to whom this has occurred,” Nykamp said. “There are currently no approved treatments and the medications typically used for these complications of the illness can come with troublesome side effects and often they don’t work as well as we’d hope.”


A $20,000 grant from the Pine Rest Foundation will fund preliminary work to prepare Pine Rest’s ECT Clinic to participate in the NIA grant.


When the study begins this spring, the teams from the five hospitals will interact regularly with a data safety monitoring board composed of experts in geriatric psychiatry, biostatistics, and ECT who will review every piece of data as well as the overall conduct of the study to provide an independent objective review of safety. The researchers will also provide a yearly progress report to the NIA.

GoT — If you don’t get it, you don’t get it — premiere party at 20 Monroe Live

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Movie Review, Upcoming Events
Jon Snow (Kit Harington) and Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) will be playing out their final scenes in the final season of Game of Thrones. (Supplied/Helen Sloane/HBO)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

There are few “sure things” about HBO’s Game of Thrones: somebody’s gonna die in every episode — and usually not in a nice way; even avid fans have been, shall we say, getting a little winterized as the series dragged on the last couple of years; and, finally, the series’ final season will be a monster. Or maybe a dragon.

So there will be plenty of anticipation, and a some shedding of blood if not tears, when 20 Monroe Live presents a Game of Thrones (GoT) Season 8 Premiere Watch Party on Sunday, April 14, with complimentary tickets available.

The all-ages party will include watching the episode on a really big screen, raffle giveaways, a LARP (Live Action Role Playing) Battle of the Living vs. Dead, a cosplay costume contest, GoT-themed drinks and wine, and a photo booth for those not fully comfortable with the selfie thing.

The doors will open at 7:30 p.m., with the GoT Season 8 Episode 1 set to air at 9 p.m. Those attending are urged to bring their own seat (camping chairs, bean bags, blankets, etc.) as, according to supplied material, “Our floor is concrete.”

While there has been an almost wartime blackout of info about the final season of Game of Thrones, HBO has announced that there will be a six-episode, 8th and final season, airing at 9 p.m. (ET) Sundays, April 14-May 19, exclusively on HBO.

An interesting thing about the planned episodes are that they are not uniform in length. The premier and second episodes will be 54 and 58 minutes long, respectively. But the final four will be about 1 hour and 20 minutes each. Haven’t read anything as to why the abnormalities.

Of course, GoT has made a habit of not really being normal.

Quick ‘catch up’, which I am sure is flawed

The epic fantasy series, based on an adaptation of “A Song of Ice and Fire”, George R. R. Martin’s series of fantasy novels, the first of which is “A Game of Thrones”, premiered on HBO in 2011.

Just in case you haven’t been a fan and plan to catch up as the creators wrap up the series’ many loose ends in the final season, Mr. Martin’s world includes the fictional continent of Westeros, where most of the action takes place.

It also has a huge — though often short-lived — cast of mostly great actors/actresses ( Diana Rigg and Max von Sydow have both paid their time in fantasyland) and more storylines than you can shake a big, ol’ sword at.

But, basically, it has three main “story arcs.” The first arc is about the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms, and the open and secret battles to control it — hint, there are few good guys trying to sit on the throne. The second focuses on the dragon lady —er, Daenerys Targaryen, the Mother of Dragons (Emilia Clarke) — descendant of the realm’s deposed ruling dynasty. And, the third, the Night’s Watch, a group of soldiers guarding a huge wall against “wildlings” and the undead — and, no, it is not some metaphor for current American politics. I don’t think …

Anyway, the show has a ton of characters who come and go with some degree of regularity and violence — although at least two, maybe more, have died and come back got life.

Samwell Tarly (John Bradley) (Supplied/Helen Sloane/HBO)
Jaime Lannister (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) (Supplied/Helen Sloane/HBO)

And that brings us to a key question for the premiere episode of the final season: just which character is going to die?

I think the early favorite is the brainy but not very sexy Samwell Tarly (John Bradley), but my money is on the sexy but not very brainy “Kingslayer” Jaime Lannister (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau); he has done his final real task, impregnating his twin sister and current ruler of Westeros to continue the Lannister dynasty.

Oh, did I mention the nudity and sex? Remember, its HBO.

The details, should you need them

20 Monroe Live is located at 11 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids (attached to The BoB). To get your complimentary ticket (and a gift, we are told, as well as an extra raffle entry) visit here. To simply reserve your ticket from 20 Monroe, visit here or email RSVP20MonroeLive@LiveNation.com .

Anti-inflammatory foods are your friends

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Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are great for fighting inflammation.
(Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)


By Jennifer Ford, MA, RDN, CSO

Inflammation is the body’s initial reaction to infection and injury. It can be classified as acute or chronic.


Acute inflammation is a short-term, physiologic response that can occur for minutes or days. It is caused by injury, infection or irritation.


Chronic inflammation is a long-term physiologic response that can occur over weeks, months or years. It’s caused by poor nutrition, obesity, viruses and chronic infection. This prolonged, continuous or chronic inflammation state is what can generate hormones and proteins that can damage your body’s healthy tissues and cells and increase your risk for cancer.

Follow these anti-inflammatory nutrition tips to help lower your risks:

  • Fill your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables: Five servings of fruits and 2.5 servings of vegetables per day can provide anti-inflammatory phytonutrients and fiber. Fiber can lower levels of C-reactive protein, which is a protein in the blood that signals inflammation. The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends adding plant foods to at least two-thirds of your plate. Make one-quarter of your plate whole grains and starchy vegetables, then make the other half non-starchy vegetables and fruits.
  • Limit red meat and processed meats: Keep pork, beef and lamb consumption to less than 18 ounces of cooked meat per week, and avoid processed meats, to decrease your cancer risk. Substitute these with other healthy sources of protein, such as beans, lentils, tofu, fish, poultry, low-fat dairy products, high-protein grains and non-processed soy protein.
  • Consume foods rich with omega-3 fatty acids: Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid from fish and alpha-linolenic acid from plant sources help protect your body from inflammation. Tuna, salmon, flaxseed, walnuts and avocado are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Promote probiotics in your diet: Add a daily serving of cultured dairy foods like kefir, Greek yogurt and yogurt.
  • Eat fewer foods that are high in calories and low in nutrients: Foods with added sugars and fats can cause weight gain and prevent the intake of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals.

How does body weight influence inflammation?

  • Stay physically active: Studies suggest that physical activity reduces inflammation and also helps you lose weight. The American Institute for Cancer Research suggests adding 30 minutes of daily activity, then slowly increasing it to 60 minutes or more of moderate activity or 30 minutes of vigorous activity.
  • Aim for a healthy BMI and waist circumference: Being overweight or obese can cause chronic inflammation. Fat cells release a variety of hormones, proteins, cytokines and growth factors that increase inflammation. Obesity increases the risk of numerous cancers—pancreatic, kidney, postmenopausal breast, colon, esophageal and endometrial. A healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9. As BMI increases, cancer risk increases. A waist measurement of 31.5 inches or more for women and 37 inches or more for men can also increase your cancer risk.

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Early literacy skill-building begins at birth

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, How-To's, Kids Activities, ,

By Carrie Shrier, Michigan State University Extension


Did you know if you start daily reading at birth, and read with your child for 30 minutes a day, they will go to kindergarten with over 900 hours of literacy time? If you reduce that to 30 minutes a week, they lose over 770 hours of this critical “brain food” and go to kindergarten with just 130 hours of literacy time.


Developing early literacy skills makes it easier for children to read. These early skills, such as building vocabulary, rhyming, and book handling skills make it easier for children to learn how to read when they get to kindergarten. However, more than one in three American children are starting kindergarten without the essential skills they need to be ready to learn to read.


Make a commitment to help your child be ready to succeed in school and commit to engaging in 30 minutes of daily literacy skill-building time starting at birth. Here are seven tips from Michigan State University Extension and ideas to support your young child’s literacy development.

1. Promote high-quality language interactions

Think of yourself like a sports commentator. You are providing the play by play for the infant or toddler in your life. Narrate the world around them, their interactions with toys, even diaper changes. Talk about what is going on, what you are doing, what they are seeing, etc. Research shows that when children have higher levels of language stimulation in the first year of life, they have better language skills, including larger vocabularies.

2. Make art a regular part of the day

In infancy and toddlerhood, young children are learning that their movements and motions can make the marks on the paper. Art experiences provide young children with the ability to practice gripping and holding a marker or crayon, learning to be purposeful in making marks on paper and phenomenal sensory feedback (feeling the paint squish between their fingers, smelling the crayons, etc.). Provide children with a wide variety of art experiences including, but not limited to, coloring with markers and crayons on heavy and thin paper, painting, finger painting, molding paint and clay, etc. Consider using non-traditional paints like chocolate pudding or shaving cream for a fun sensory experience.

3. Read, read, read

Build children’s print awareness and book handling skills by reading to them every day and making books available for children to explore. Consider heavy-duty board books that will survive heavy duty toddler usage. MSU Extension offers ideas to expand on your child’s experiences with books in our free, reproducible Family Book Sheets.

4. Nursery rhyme time

Research in early literacy has proven that regular exposure to rhymes help boost children’s abilities to master pre-reading skills such as rhyme prediction and detection. Add rhymes and rhythms to your child’s day. Read nursery rhymes, sing songs with rhyming words, find fun books with rhymes and add chants or rhymes to routine times of your day, such as cleanup time or bath time.

5. Use baby sign language

Did you know that babies who learned to sign first have been found to have significantly higher vocabularies and higher IQ scores? In fact, babies who learn to sign are more likely to be reading on grade level by the end of third grade. Use signs to teach your baby and toddler basic communication words like eat, more, milk, tired, wet, hot, etc. You can tell your baby is starting to be old enough to sign when you see them waving bye-bye or mimicking other gestures to communicate, such as pounding on their high chair tray for more food.

6. Read it again, and again, and again!

While reading books again and again might be frustrating for parents, toddlers love to have their favorite books read aloud multiple times. The act of re-reading a book helps young children build their comprehension skills and their vocabulary. Consider having special books as parts of your routine, such as a bedtime book you read at the same time every night. Ask questions while you read, can they predict what will happen next?

7. Literacy rich environments

Point out to your baby or toddler all the things you read in a day. Read in front of them, emphasize that reading is something you value. Read cereal boxes at breakfast, magazines in the doctor’s waiting room, street signs while you are driving. Make books accessible to your child. Help your child grow up valuing reading as a critical skill and worthy use of their free time.


It is critical to help your child be ready to read when they go to kindergarten. According to 2017 M-STEP data, only 50 percent of Michigan’s children were reading on grade level by the end of third grade. This is a crucial benchmark because in fourth grade, children shift from learning how to read to reading to learn. The Michigan Department of Education is working diligently to improve reading proficiency, beginning with supporting language, literacy and pre-reading skills in early childhood.


Do your part in supporting your child’s early reading skills. Make an effort to keep reading a priority in your home; a family activity that is fun, engaging and something you do together, every day. Helping your child learn to love reading is an amazing gift.


For more information about early childhood literacy development, programs in your area and webinars, visit MSU Extension’s Early Childhood Development.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Tickets for ‘Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars’ tour go on sale April 12

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , ,

By Hilarie Carpenter, SMG


Tickets for the Sept. 19th Miranda Lambert’s ‘Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars’ tour (with very special guests Elle King, Pistol Annies, and Caylee Hammack) go on sale to the general public beginning Friday, April 12 at 10am.


Tickets will be available at the Van Andel Arena® and DeVos Place® box offices and online at Ticketmaster.com. A purchase limit of six (6) tickets will apply to every order. See Ticketmaster.com for all pricing and availability.

  • What: Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars tour (Miranda Lambert with very special guests Elle King, Pistol Annies, and Caylee Hammack)
  • When: Sept. 19 at 7pm
  • Where: Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, MI

GVSU professor to talk on ‘belief change’ and its impact at Wealthy Theater

Area Education, Community Health, Education, Entertainment, Health, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events,
Dr. Michael Wolfe (Supplied/GVSU)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

Grand Valley State University professor of psychology Dr. Michael Wolfe will present a lecture “Are we aware of our belief changes, and does it matter?” at the Wealthy Theater Annex front studio on Wednesday, April 10, at 7 p.m., in an event hosted by the Center for Inquiry (CFI) Michigan.

This event is free and open to the public. Suggested donation of $5. The Wealthy Theatre Annex is located at 1110 Wealthy Street SE, Grand Rapids. For more information, visit here, and to learn about CFI Michigan, visit cfimichigan.org.

According to supplied information, Dr. Wolfe will describe recent research on belief change and the extent to which we are aware of changes to our beliefs.

A belief is defined as a statement about the truth value of something. Participants rate their beliefs on a subject. Later they read a one-sided text that is either consistent with or inconsistent with those beliefs, then are asked to try and remember how they rated those beliefs earlier. Awareness of belief change is found if subjects change their beliefs as a result of reading, and then can accurately report that they believed something different before the experiment.

 
The researchers also examine individual variation in people’s awareness of their belief changes to see if it relates to performance on other tasks. In particular, is it the case that people who are more aware of changes to their own beliefs are also more willing to seek out new information about the topic, while people who are less aware of their belief changes are less willing to seek out new information?

Dr. Wolfe will describe new research on people’s awareness of changes to their health status. Patients who participated in a longitudinal study of bariatric (weight loss) surgery rated their health every year for several years. They also rated how they perceived their health to have changed over the past year. The combination of these ratings makes it possible to examine the accuracy of their perceived changes in their health.

 
Dr. Wolfe is professor of psychology at Grand Valley State University and incoming chair of the Psychology Department. Dr. Wolfe received his PhD in cognitive psychology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Much of his research involves studies on reading comprehension and memory. In recent years, he has studied how and when beliefs may change as a result of reading, and the extent to which people are aware of these changes.

 
According to supplied information, the Center for Inquiry (CFI) Michigan is an Educational 501(c)3 Nonprofit that promotes and defends reason, science and freedom of inquiry in all areas of human endeavor.

School News Network: Better together: high schoolers and second-graders tackle Plaster Creek

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , ,
Second-grader Alexa Montano will be working with 11th-graders Kaniya Raby, left, and Sharolyn Rodriguez over the next two months to learn more about Plaster Creek (School News Network)

By Bridie Bereza
School News Network


On a sunny, spring-like day, Kara Jones rounded up her second-grade students from Godfrey-Lee’s Early Childhood Center and walked with them across the district’s athletic fields adjacent to Plaster Creek. Their destination? The neighboring East Lee Campus, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools’ alternative high school program.

Once inside the building, Jones’ students scattered to classrooms and got acquainted with East Lee students, who read the younger pupils books that they had written about the creek outside.

Some of the second-graders were timid; others talkative. One girl had a case of the giggles. The meeting was the first of several weekly meetups that will happen between the two groups from now until the end of May as part of a “Community Legacy” unit at the high school, which uses a problem-based learning model.

Sharolyn Rodriguez and Kaniya Raby, 11th-graders, were all smiles as they got to know second-grader Alexa Montano. Kaniya said that creating the book was a little stressful and a lot of fun.

“Reading it to her just makes it all the more worth it,” said Kaniya, pointing to Alexa.

Second-grader Alfredo DeLeon said he liked the book that East Lee students Logan Barton and Joel Garcia wrote to teach him about Plaster Creek.

“We made it fun — added a time machine — and didn’t try to use big words,” said Joel. “I tried to make it as simple as possible.”

Second-grader Carlos Urbina and 10th-grader Christopher Andrade get to know each other at East Lee Campus. (School News Network)

Troubled Water

While keeping it as simple as possible will be necessary in order to share what they’re learning with the second-graders, East Lee students have chosen a complex issue to tackle for this unit.

“As a school we’re trying to do something that makes an impact on the bigger community around us,” said English teacher Sarah Byrne, who is team-teaching the unit with social studies teacher Justin Noordhoek. “The students have chosen to focus on cleaning up Plaster Creek, which is the most polluted waterway in West Michigan, we’ve learned.”

The unit began with students researching the waterway, which runs alongside East Lee Campus and the Early Childhood Center, and taking a bus tour of the Plaster Creek watershed and Wyoming area led by David Britten, former superintendent and current historian for the district. The bus tour gave the students a chance to photograph the current landscape and understand the historical factors that contributed to pollution in the creek.

While they’re still gathering data and learning about Plaster Creek, East Lee students are moving into the action phase of their study. The students will look to Plaster Creek Stewards, a project led by faculty, staff, and students from Calvin College, for guidance. The group will lead the Godfrey-Lee students in activities at Shadyside Park in Dutton to help them recognize creek-related problems in agricultural areas, then will advise them on ways they can help to restore the watershed. This may include hands-on restoration efforts such as planting trees and installing rain gardens.

Partnering with with Jones’ class to pass on what they are learning seemed like a good fit for the East Lee students.

Noordhoek said that in the past, he’s noticed the students really thrive when working with younger students.

“I really think a lot of them have so much talent with little kids and they don’t sometimes see that in themselves,” said Noordhoek.

Second-grader Diego Pina-Salcedo answers questions about his likes and dislikes with East Lee Campus student Bryan Barrios. (School News Network)

Leaving a Legacy Together

Jones, who has created and taught thematic units in her second-grade classroom on legacy concepts, was a natural partner for East Lee. The high school students will soon create lesson plans about Plaster Creek and teach them to Jones’ class. The two classes will also journal, take field trips, and plant trees together.

Jones said that teachers don’t often get the chance to bring different age levels together to work on a shared project. She said she hopes the collaboration will push her students to learn and will make the older students mindful of how they interact with younger ones, challenging everyone involved.

“I hope that they understand their environmental impact and that they make a new friend in the process,” said Jones.

Noordhoek said that he hopes this project shows students that they don’t need to wait for someone else to come and make a difference, and that they will feel empowered to do something when they recognize a problem: “They can be their own agents of change.”

Added Byrne, “Always our goal, no matter what projects we do, is that students are aware that they have the power to make the world a better place. If we can improve their literacy and critical thinking skills, and knowledge of history while doing this — that’s perfect.”

For more stories on local schools, visit schoolnewsnetwork.org.

Using what they’ve learned about Plaster Creek so far, East Lee students created books to share with students in Kara Jones’ second-grade class. (School News Network)

Wyoming High’s Avery Robinson wins Prestigious MHSAA Scholar Athlete Award

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Education, Local Faces, Sports

By Drew Dargavell, WKTV Sports Intern
ken@wktv.org


For 30 years the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) has honored the best student-athletes in the state. Each year they award 32 students with $1,000 scholarships based on achievement and leadership in athletics and extracurriculars.

This year, the student-athletes were honored at halftime of the boys high school basketball championships at the Breslin Center at Michigan State University. And among those students awarded was Wyoming High School’s Avery Robinson III.

“It was a great experience, not only being surrounded by all those fans, but also meeting other scholar athletes. It was incredible.” Avery said to WKTV after being honored at the Breslin Center.

“It’s great to be recognized for all the hard work I’ve put in for the past four years,” Robinson said. “But I also feel like it’s a representation of how great the Wyoming community is and all the hard work they put in to their students and their athletes.”

To be eligible for this award, the student must have a 3.50 GPA or better and have earned a varsity letter in an MHSAA-sponsored sport — and Robinson is gifted both athletically and academically.

He lettered in three sports including track and field, tennis and golf. He was varsity in track all four years and was the school’s only pole vaulter. In tennis, he played No. 1 singles, and finished in first place at two invitationals this past season and was named all-conference in the OK-Gold division. Avery was even named the West Michigan Fox Motors Athlete of the Week in October 2018.

Robinson tries to go above and beyond in all of his sports, activities and academics, according to track coach Brent VanEnk.

Avery Robinson has excelled at tennis for Wyoming high. (WKTV)

“Every time we’re at the meet he says ‘What do you need me for coach?’ and especially as a high school coach, that’s great to have,” VanEnk said about his lone pole vaulter. “I couldn’t think of anyone better, especially in this school, to get that award.”

Not only does he work hard in athletics but Robinson excels in his studies as well, accumulating a 4.15 GPA, while taking a total of nine AP classes during his junior and senior years.

He is also very involved in extracurricular groups and community service. He is the President of the school’s National Honors Society, an officer of the Key Club, a drum major for the marching band, a participant in the science olympiads, and he qualified for state in Business Professionals of America.

“Time management is very important,” Robinson said on juggling his academics and extracurriculars. “Keeping priorities, I usually try to do one thing at a time and strike a balance by scheduling and organizing.”

The next step for the soon-to-be Wyoming grad is choosing a four-year university. He has several offers on the table, but is still in the decision-making process. He hopes to pursue social sciences and possibly go the pre-law route.

How to avoid foreclosure

3-bottom, How-To's, ,

By Brenda Long, Michigan State University Extension


Many distressed homeowners had poor experiences during the mortgage crisis, including runarounds and surprises. In response, mortgage servicers must do a better job and comply with the new federal loss mitigation procedures implemented by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in 2014. The rules are designed to provide consistent and meaningful protections for borrowers. 


Only the five servicers who were part of the National Mortgage Settlement (See my related articles from April 9 and April 26, 2013) must comply with the CFPB procedures. The five Servicers are Ally/GMAC, Bank of America, CitiMortgage, JP Morgan Chase and Wells Fargo. The new rules do not apply to small servicers and community banks.


Servicers: Before foreclosing by advertisement, these five servicers must now do all of the following:

  • By 36 days after a homeowner misses a payment or cannot pay the full amount, the servicer must make a good faith effort to establish contact by telephone or at an in-person meeting.
  • If the borrower’s situation calls for it, the servicer must tell the borrower about loan modification or workout options available.
  • By 45 days delinquent, the servicer must send a written notice to the borrower encouraging the borrower to contact the servicer that contains the name, address, phone number and e-mail of assigned employees responsible to help them avoid foreclosure. The correspondence must also contain information about how to find a housing counselor.
  • After 45 days late, periodic or monthly mortgage statements must include a “delinquency box,” containing information on the possible risks the borrower faces, the amount needed to bring the loan current, how to find a HUD-approved housing counselor and any loss mitigation programs the borrower has already agreed to.
  • Only after 120 days of late payments can a mortgage servicer make a first notice or filing for foreclosure. This gives the borrower time to learn about workout options and file an application for mortgage assistance. If the borrower has already submitted a complete application, the foreclosure process may not begin while the Borrower is being evaluated for a loss mitigation plan. This provision restricts Dual-Tracking, which hurt many consumers who thought they were working out a resolution with their banks and were shocked to learn of a scheduled foreclosure sale.
  • If a loss mitigation application is received at least 37 days before a foreclosure sale, Servicers must review and respond to the borrower within 30 days. If the sale is more than 45 days away, servicers must inform the borrower if the application is complete within 5 business days of receipt.

Borrowers: The earlier that borrowers seek help, the more protections they have under CFPB rules:

  • Borrowers have the most protections if they submit a complete application for mortgage assistance within 120 days of the first missed payment. The servicer is not allowed to start a foreclosure process during those 120 days. There is no deadline to apply, but the sooner the better.
  • If a borrower submits a complete application 90 or more days before a scheduled foreclosure sale, the servicer must give the borrower at least 14 days to accept or reject an offer of a loss mitigation option. Plus, in this timeframe, the borrower may file an appeal of a denial for any loan modification within 14 days.
  • If the borrower submits a complete application for loss mitigation options 45 days or more before a scheduled Sheriff’s Sale, the servicer must send a written notice to the borrower encouraging the borrower acknowledging the receipt of the application within 5 business days. If the application is not complete, the servicer must tell the borrower what additional information and documents must be provided. If the borrower’s application is less than 45 days before a foreclosure sale, the borrower is not entitled to a written notice that their application has been received.
  • If the borrower submits a complete application 37 or more days before a scheduled foreclosure sale, it will be evaluated for loss mitigation options. The servicer must give the borrower written notice of the decision.
  • When servicers deny a borrower for a loan modification option, they must give specific reasons for the denial for each available modification option.
  • Borrowers who sought help before and were rejected may apply again for an evaluation under the new rules. Their complete application must be filed more than 37 days before a scheduled Sheriff Sale.
  • Consumers may file a complaint about mortgages with the CFPB. Call 855-411-2372 (CFPB) or online at http://consumerfinance.gov/complaint.

Some Michigan State University Extension offices have HUD-approved housing counselors who offer the housing counseling requirement. Find one near you at http://www.mimoneyhealth.org/contact_us to call for an appointment in person, by phone or online. In other areas, find a HUD approved housing counselor. 


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Good Night, Sweetheart

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, , ,

By Dr. Jenny Bush, Cherry Health

Anyone who has ever had a bad habit to break knows that life would have been easier if they had never started the habit in the first place. Bad sleep habits in young children can cause fatigue for the caregivers along with irritability and learning difficulties for the child. The following are tips for starting your child off with a good night sleep:

  • Newborn babies typically go through cycles of playing, eating and sleeping every 3-4 hours. If your baby has been recently fed and seems fussy, try to calm them by walking or rocking them. When they seem calm but are not quite asleep, place them in a crib on a firm surface on their back with nothing extra present. Doing this while they are tired but still awake will help them develop the ability to fall asleep on their own, which eventually helps them get back to sleep when they awaken at night.
  • If the baby gets fussy when put in the crib, try rubbing their tummy and softly shushing or singing a lullaby.
  • Never let a baby fall asleep with the bottle or breast in their mouth, as this habit is very hard to break and can cause severe dental infections that are often painful and require surgery to fix.
  • Establish a firm bedtime routine. It is good to have bedtime at the same time every night. Choose 2-3 things to do the same prior to saying goodnight. For example, you could read a book, sing a song and say ‘goodnight’ to a favorite stuffed animal.
  • Avoid stimulating activities such as television, phone or tablet use for 30 minutes prior to bedtime. This tip can help people of any age sleep better!

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

County urges public to listen for, understand warning siren tests

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health
A sample of an outdoor emergency warning siren.

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The Kent County Emergency Management and the City of Grand Rapids Emergency Management will begin monthly tests of the county’s outdoor warning sirens Friday, April 5, at noon.

According to Kent County Emergency Management Coordinator Lt. Louis Hunt, if members of the public do not hear the siren tests, and believe they should have, they are urged to contact their local township or city office. The tests will continue the first Friday of each month, April through October, at noon.

“The purpose of the outdoor warning sirens is to provide one of many means to alert residents of an imminent hazard and to prompt them to find shelter and seek further information,” Lt. Hunt said in a statement. “These sirens are one facet of a broad system of emergency warning that also includes weather and media apps for smart phones, NOAA radios, and local radio and television alerts.

“It is important to understand that the outdoor warning sirens may not be able to reach the interior of all homes due to distance, improved housing construction and sound deadening features, or the specific location within the home such as a basement,” he said. “Therefore, redundant methods of emergency alert are recommended.”

The testing of the outdoor warning sirens is also an excellent time to discuss plans for severe weather with your family and in your workplace, the county statement advises.

For more information about the Kent County Emergency Management system, visit the department’s website here.

Our Lakes are Great: Series on global and local water issues held at KDL Kentwood branch

3-bottom, , ,

By Katie Zuidema
Kent District Library

Kent District Library is pleased to partner with the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan (WACWM) to present a series of programs titled “Oceans, Lakes, and Streams: Protecting Water Globally and Locally” in April and May. The series will take place at the Kentwood branch of Kent District Library, 4950 Breton Rd. SE, Kentwood, MI 49508.

“The state of the Great Lakes and our oceans.  Lead in our municipal water. The health of our local watersheds. When it comes to our water resources, there is a lot to discuss,” said Michael Van Denend, WACWM’s executive director. “Each part in the series focuses on a particular body or type of water to look at this issue globally and locally. The end goal is to remind our community how interconnected we are through the water we share and create positive courses of action that will protect these resources for generations to come.”

The series is as follows:

Wednesday, April 10, features Dr. David E. Guggenheim, known as “The Ocean Doctor,” discussing the “State of the Oceans.” Ocean Doctor is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., established in 2012 dedicated to protecting and restoring our oceans through hands-on conservation.  

Monday, April 15, features a panel of local experts discussing the “State of our Ground Water.” Garret Ellison, MLive; Drs. Gail Heffner and Dave Warners, Plaster Creek Stewards; and Dr. Richard Rediske, Robert B. Annis Water Resource Institute (AWRI) will be joined by moderator Elaine Sterrett Isely, West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) as they discuss issues affecting our ground water in West Michigan and the actions our community can take to be better stewards.

Wednesday, April 24, features Anna Clark, author of The Poisoned City: Flint’s Water and the American Urban Tragedy discussing “Learning from the Flint Water Crisis.”  Clark is a journalist in Detroit. The Poisoned City was named one of the best books of the year in 2018 by theWashington Post, the San Francisco Chronicle, Kirkus, Amazon, and more.

Wednesday, May 1, features Dr. Mark Luttenton, Robert B. Annis Water Resource Institute (AWRI), discussing “State of the Great Lakes.”  Luttenton is a Professor of Biology and Associate Research Scientist at AWRI along with serving as Associate Dean of the Graduate School at Grand Valley State University.

Events run from 6:30 to 7:30 pm and are free and open to the public. No reservations are needed and there is free parking available. For more information on sessions, dates and times, as well as detailed information on speakers, visit www.worldmichigan.org/water-series or call 616-776-1721.


In existence since 1949, WACWM empowers the people and organizations of West Michigan to engage thoughtfully with the world. WACWM brings timely information and encourages spirited conversation on matters of global importance and national foreign policy through diverse and comprehensive programming. The organization is non-partisan and promises presenters that are credible, topics that are relevant, discussion that is civil and events that are compelling.

WACWM has over 50 member companies and 11 educational institutions as part of its local network, and is itself a member of the national World Affairs Council Association based in Washington, D.C.— consisting of over 90 member-councils across the United States. More information about the council can be found at www.worldmichigan.org.

WKTV brings two award-winning religious films to cable TV audience

3-bottom, WKTV Projects,
Cropped portion of poster for “The Miller Prediction”. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

Beginning Monday, April 8, and running through the month, WKTV Community Media will offer cable channel telecasts of two new award-winning religious-themed films: “The Miller Prediction” and “World Peace — A Baha’i Vision”, both produced by Radiant Century Films.

“The Miller Prediction” will premiere Monday, April 8, at 11 p.m., and re-air Friday April 12, at noon, and Thursday, April 18, at 4 p.m.

 
According to Radiant Films, “William Miller, a Baptist preacher and founder of the Adventist movement, predicted that the world would end in 1844. His Biblical and other research proved that Christ would return to the earth in 1844. When that apparently did not happen, The Great Disappointment became a major event in the history of the Millerite movement. ‘The Miller Prediction’ presents a mystery. The mystery is a real one, and of vital importance to every human being. It presents enough evidence to pull the viewer into this investigation, and then allows them to answer the question for themselves.”
 

“World Peace —  A Baha’i Vision”, will premiere Monday, April 8, at 9 p.m., and re-air Thursday, April 11, at 5 p.m.

Radiant films describes the film this way: “World Peace — A Baha’i Vision” was produced in 2016 by Cyrus Parvini. Directed by award winning director Cullen Hoback. Narrated by Emmy Award winner Eva La Rue. This film explores the beliefs and origins of the Baha’i Faith, which has become the second most widespread religion on the planet. Weaving together interviews, historical documents, and footage from around the globe, this documentary takes us inside the Baha’i way of life and the daily struggle to promote unity in a conflicted world.”
 

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels: Comcast cable Channel 25 and AT&T cable Channel 99 (Community). For WKTV cable television programming highlights, visit WKTVjournal.org . For a complete list of programming visit wktv.org and click on “Programming”.

On Tap: ‘Beer City Eats’ on WKTV, a party in Cedar Springs, artful pours in Muskegon

3-bottom, Beer, Going Local, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Upcoming Events
Local beer and food pairings are the focus of “Beer City Eats.” (Supplied/Beer City USA)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org
 
‘Beer City Eats’, an eight-episode video series launched last month as part of Experience Grand Rapids’ Beer Month GR, is now running on WKTV Community Media’s cable television channels.

DJ Adrian “AB” Butler (Supplied)

Grand Rapids designer, musician and DJ Adrian “AB” Butler is your tour guide for Beer City Eats, according to supplied information. The series focuses on how Grand Rapids’ beer reputation has elevated the food scene to a nationally-recognized level. In each episode, “AB” interviews local brewmasters, chefs, and owners to highlight the unique and delicious dishes available at local breweries, unveiling what makes each spot a favorite among locals.

“It’s awesome to see how every brewery approaches their food in completely different ways,” Butler said in supplied information. “It’s clear that the food (in Grand Rapids) is just as important as the beer. At the highest level, they are passionate about the quality of both the beer and the food.”

The short-form video programs began on WKTV recently, after our Golden Gloves boxing coverage, but is now in regular random rotation. To see the videos on-demand, visit experiencegr.com/beer-city-eats .


Cedar Springs Brewing to host ‘Starkbierfest’, sausage party

Cedar Springs Brewing Company will host its 4th annual Starkbierfest — its “strong beer festival” — on Saturday, April 6, from 3-9 p.m., with live music, and beer, and food, and beer, and a sausage party, and beer … you get the idea.

The rain-or-shine event will have a heated tent (although latest weather reports say it may not be needed) with live music headlined by Jimmie Stagger, limited beer releases, and — because (wo)man does not live by beer alone — a sausage party.

Besides the famous Oktoberfest, Starkbierfest (“Strong Beer Festival”) is the second biggest German beer festival time during the year, according to supplied information. Historically, monks brewed strong beer, or Bockbier, which was higher in calories and a bit stronger to substitute for food during Lenten fasting.

If you not into the Bockbier, Cedar Springs has its usual assortment of good pours, including the Küsterer Pale Bock (Bavarian pale lager bock), Buffalo Trace Bourbon Barrel Aged Märzen, Buffalo Trace Bourbon Barrel Aged Küsterer (amber lager) as well as cask releases including a Küsterer Bohemian Pilsner and … my favorite when I swing by the brewery which I’m an original member of … the Küsterer original Weissbier.

The sausage party will include Dearborn Kielbasa and a Fontanini Italian sausage, we are told.

The music will have Dave Slivinski’s German/folk sounds from 2-4 p.m., the Aaron Dussing Duo playing German/folk from 4:30-6:30 p.m., and great Bluesman Jimmie Stagger from 7-9 p.m. or until the place runs out of beer.

For more information on the Cedar Springs Brewing and its Starkbierfest, or visit csbrew.com .

Muskegon Museum of Art goes on-tap and uncorked

The Muskegon Museum of Art will hold its annual On Tap & Uncorked fundraiser night at the museum — a Michigan beer, wine and food tasting event — on Friday, April 12, from 6-9 p.m. (By the way, I know from experience that only a limited number of tickets are sold to keep the crowd manageable.)

According to supplied information, the local breweries involved include Big Hart, Cellar, Fetch, Grand Armory, Pigeon Hill, Stormcloud and Unruly. (I can personally vouch for the beers of Sparta’s Cellar Brewing Co. and Muskegon’s own Unruly Brewing Co.) Wineries include Lemon Creek, St. Julian and Twisted Creek; and hard cider will be present from Ridge Cider Co. Restaurants bringing their food include Applebees, Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque, Hank’s Tavern, Hearthstone, Se4sons Gastro Pub and Village Baker.

Advance tickets are $35, or $40 at the door (if it is not sold out).

For more information on MMA events, and/or tickets for the On Tap & Uncorked night, visit the MMA museum store at 296 W. Webster Ave., call 231-720-2580, or visit the museum’s website.

By the way, there are a pair of concerts planned at the museum. On Saturday, April 27, at 7 p.m., the folk duo of Kane & Gellert will take the stage. Kieran Kane has been referred to as “the godfather of Americana music”. Then later in the spring, two-time Grammy winner Laurence Juber will take the stage on Friday, June 14, at 7 p.m. Juber was first recognized internationally as lead guitarist in Paul McCartney’s band Wings, and has since established himself as guitar virtuoso, composer and arranger, and concert performer, according to someone I read somewhere.

‘Ralph W. Hauenstein: A Life of Leadership’ extended to April 14 at GRPM

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Faces, Local History, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, ,


By Grand Rapids Public Museum


A Life of Leadership explores the extraordinary life of Grand Rapidian Ralph W. Hauenstein. COL Hauenstein was a leader in the West Michigan community, remembered for his role as a journalist, his military and intelligence service, his dedication to the Catholic faith, his entrepreneurship, and his philanthropy in Grand Rapids. Hauenstein left a lasting legacy in the United States and around the world.


Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1912, Hauenstein’s family moved to Grand Rapids when he was 12 years old and he graduated from Central High School in 1931. He was a public servant from his early years starting as a boy scout. Hauenstein was curious, inquisitive, and an exceptional storyteller, which led him to his first job as a police reporter for the Grand Rapids Press and later as a city editor with the Grand Rapids Herald.


Hauenstein joined the U.S. Army in 1935, serving first with the Civilian Conservation Corps. In 1941 he began working as an intelligence officer in Iceland and rose to the rank of colonel. During World War II, he was promoted to Chief of Intelligence for the European Theater of Operations under General Dwight D. Eisenhower. An important part of his experience was the liberation of the German concentration camp at Dachau. His WWII experiences opened his eyes to the need for ethical, effective world leaders.


Hauenstein saw first-hand that many countries face food shortages. After the war he returned to Grand Rapids and became an entrepreneur in international trade and food equipment manufacturing, designing equipment to make Goldfish Crackers. His success in business allowed for substantial philanthropic contributions in Grand Rapids. He gave generously to many local causes and established the Grace Hauenstein Library at Aquinas College, Mercy Health Hauenstein Neuroscience Center and the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University.


The exhibition highlights Hauenstein’s extraordinary life, his contributions to our nation and community, and his legacy of leadership. Interactives allow visitors to test out writing a headline for the newspaper on an antique typewriter and try their hand at cracking a secret code. Photography from around the world brings visitors face-to-face with Hauenstein’s impact globally.


Ralph W. Hauenstein: A Life of Leadership is included with general admission to the Museum, and located on the Museum’s third floor.


This exhibition is made possible through the generous support of: The Hauenstein Family and The Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University. Images and objects on loan courtesy of Brian Hauenstein unless otherwise stated. The images in this exhibition were first digitized for public display by the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University. Thank you also to the National Cryptologic Museum, NSA, Washington D.C.
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Cat of the week: Pudge

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals,

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


We are very fortunate to have an excellent working relationship with local shelters and rescues, as they will contact us if they come across a Feline Leukemia-positive stray in need of placement. We are also fortunate that we have the financial ways and means to test each and every cat that comes through our door upon arrival, versus having to wait to see if a cat’s status is negative after someone comes in and falls in love with a kitty.


Sadly, such was the case with Pudge, a FABULOUS five-year-old fella (born in November of 2013), who ended up at Harbor Humane Society back in November of 2018; none of his caretakers knew he was harboring the contagious retrovirus until someone had fallen head over heels for him. The potential adopters opted not to take a very disappointed Pudge home, probably because they had other cats that weren’t vaccinated against the disease, which is completely understandable, but sad nonetheless. And since he was now in another category, the shelter was unable to house him any longer and contacted us for help in a hurry.


So Pudge packed his little bags and made the trip from West Olive to Wyoming on Jan. 17, 2019, arriving with such an eager attitude and the brightest eyes that he was pawsitively intoxicating! He sported only two-thirds of his tail, which believe it or not made him even cuter.


However, his mouth was nothing but an inflamed, rotten mess (something that is very common in leukemia kitties), so Dr. Jen had to take him to surgery to remove every tooth present behind his canines. No worries though, as he rebounded without any issue whatsoever and has had no trouble consuming any and all types of food given to him.


The next day Dr. Jen happily sent him down to Big Sid’s, our sanctuary for FELV and FIV kitties—and what an impression he made instantaneously! We have two very important words for you: PUDGE HUGS!


“Pudge has become an instant volunteer favorite with his hugs—he will literally climb you like a tree and never let you go. The only way you can put him down is to hand him to another person. He is learning to play nice with the other cats and I actually caught him wrestling with Tinker and Stavros this week. He would do great with older kids and would probably like a buddy to play with.”

Hugs so awesome, they’re trademarked

“Pudge absolutely loves people, and his trademark hugs are the best. When trying to put him down he’s been known to be a little bossy and has grabbed at faces—I would recommend being with older kids that respect his occasional outbursts. He can’t help it, he’s just happiest when he’s being carried around by as many volunteers in one shift as possible! He does pick on the others on occasion, but once you correct him he’s fine. I call him the Eddie Haskell of cats (though many people won’t get the reference). He’d do great in a home with another cat, a dog, and older kids.”


So there ya have it in a nutshell, why we are all so smitten with this big kitten. It is a hoot to stop in and see him being carted around in the arms of visitors who cannot get over how affectionate and adorable he is. We don’t think he viral status is going to hinder him from getting a happy home of his own, as his personality is so big and he is simply too amazing to pass up!

More about Pudge:

  • Orange/red Tabby
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Feline Leukemia-positive
  • Good in a home with other cats, children

Want to adopt Pudge? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!

Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.

Scott Moreau returns for Johnny Cash concert April 12 & 13

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, ,
Scott Moreau (photo supplied)

By Courtney Sheffer, West Michigan Tourist Association


Farmers Alley Theatre welcomes Scott Moreau back to West Michigan for a special, one-weekend only concert event: LATE & ALONE: An Intimate Portrait of Johnny Cash April 12th & 13th.


Farmers Alley audiences will remember Scott from the record-breaking production of Million Dollar Quartet at the Little Theatre on Oakland Drive in December of 2016. Scott directed that sold-out run and pulled double duty as he portrayed the Man in Black himself, Johnny Cash.


Moreau comes to Kalamazoo direct from his sold-out performance at New York City’s famed 54 Below. Using anecdotes from his autobiography, multiple interviews, and live concerts, Scott tells Johnny’s story with his own words and songs. Featuring more than 20 songs from Johnny’s 40+ years in the music business, Moreau creates a stripped down look into the life of this American icon.

“Moreau channels the Man in Black and then some. He unleashes a voice that possesses not just Cash’s deep, rumbling, sepulchral timbre but also an astonishing power. This guy seems like he could knock down a brick wall just by singing at it.”

Boston Globe


LATE & ALONE: An Intimate Portrait of Johnny Cash has just two performances, April 12th & 13th at 8pm. Seating will be limited at the original black-box space at 221 Farmers Alley, so make your ticket reservations quickly by calling our Box Office at (269) 343-2727 or visiting www.farmersalleytheatre.com. Tickets are $30 general admission and $10 for students.

Five ways to save on housing costs

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, How-To's, , ,
Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Brenda Long, Michigan State University Extension


One key to financial success is lowering your housing costs. Generally, about one third of money spent by the typical household goes toward housing. The less you spend each month on housing, including utilities and other fixed costs, the less financial stress you will feel. You’ll also have more money to save toward retirement or for discretionary “fun” spending.


Refinance your mortgage: Interest rates are still low, and worth taking another look. Use an online calculator to estimate how much you will save over the years. If your current mortgage payment is over 31 percent of your income, you might qualify for a loan modification to lower your payments. 


Follow these links to determine if your mortgage qualifies:

  • Cut your utility bills: Weatherproofing, thermostat settings, landscaping and water conservation can all make a difference. Check out No to Low Cost Actions to Save Home Energy and Money for specific information.
  • Shrink your homeowner’s insurance costs: Look into paying a higher deductible to save yourself money. Ask about the many discount opportunities you might qualify to receive. Do a comparison shop of three companies. Insurance is necessary and it doesn’t have to be super expensive.
  • Fight your property tax assessment: If you feel your property tax assessment is too high, or much higher than neighbors with similar homes, you can appeal to your local taxing authority and potentially save for years to come. Generally in Michigan, January or February is the time of the year to submit an appeal request and it is reviewed by a local review committee in March. Check for errors on your property record and prepare your case.
  • Downsize to a smaller home: If your home is too large for your current needs, consider moving to a less costly residence to save money. A smaller home also could mean big savings on mortgage payments, utilities, maintenance and repairs.

Michigan State University Extension is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency and has many MSHDA-certified housing counselors at multiple county offices to assist you by phone or digitally. Find a staff person near you at mimoneyhealth.org. MSHDA-certified Housing counselors may be located as well.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).

Alternatives in Motion ‘Wheel Run Together’ 5k at GVSU this weekend

3-bottom, Community Health, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, Sports, Upcoming Events
Alternatives in Motion’s Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser from a previous year. (Supplied/Alternatives in Motion)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The local non-profit Alternatives in Motion — whose mission state is to “enhance independence through access to mobility equipment — invites the public to run, walk or hand cycle your way through Grand Valley State University’s campus in Allendale this Saturday, April 6, for its Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser.

All proceeds go directly to support the organization, which aids in donating and refurbishing wheelchairs to individuals and families in need.

For a late 2017 WKTV In Focus video interview with the group, see this YouTube link.

“Nothing is more powerful than the gift of independence and mobility, so come out to support a wonderful cause put on by students in the physical therapy program at GVSU,” states a supplied press release.

The event will take place at 1110 Kirkhof Center, 1 Campus Drive, on GVSU’s Allendale campus. In addition to the run, there will be raffles, prizes, music, snacks, drinks, and more. The cost is $25 per person with events starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m. Online registration ends April 5.

Registration and additional race information can be found at the following Facebook link.

For more information on Alternatives in Motion, visit their website here.