All posts by Joanne

Preparing youth to be money smart after graduation

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

By Frank Cox, Michigan State University Extension

 

What comes to mind when you hear preparing for post-secondary education? Other than filling out applications for colleges, trade schools, financial aid or scholarships, you may think of working hard to get good grades, studying to make high scores for the SAT or the ACT, or, for student athletes, improving skills to get a scholarship. What about preparing students to manage their money while they are in post-secondary education

 

According to a study on college students and personal finance by LendEDU, statistics show this can be an important topic to teach to students entering into post-secondary education. For example:

  • 58% of students reported they were not saving money each month.
  • 43% of students stated they don’t track monthly spending.
  • 29% of students stated they saved 0 percent of their monthly income each month.
  • 81% of students stated they do not have an emergency fund.

What can parents, schools or community organizations teach or emphasize to students as they enter post-secondary education? First, for the statistics above: budgeting and saving. Other than paying for the costs of college like tuition, room and board, and other academic expenses, other expenses such as the costs of hanging out with friends, going to restaurants or sporting events can affect the budgets of students (please see “1. Don’t deposit and dash” in “4 Steps to Financially Prepare Your Student for College” by U.S. News).

Some tips to assist students in money management for college from “6 Must-Follow Money Tips For College Students” in the U.S. News and World Report are:

  • Create a budget.
  • Separate wants and needs.
  • Set up a checking account.
  • Use, don’t abuse credit cards.
  • Do your homework on loans and financial aid.
  • Shop smart for textbooks.

The National Endowment for Financial Education also provides a helpful resource with “40 Money Management Tips Every College Student Should Know” to help provide strategies and resources for young people before and during their post-secondary education.

 

Also, Michigan 4-H Youth Development through Michigan State University Extension has resources for youth money management. Parents and caring adults can use resources such as National Endowment for Financial Education High School Financial Planning Program and Michigan 4-H Youth Money Management to build personal finance skills that will help youth not only in college but also through adulthood.

 

Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives. To learn about the positive impact of Michigan 4-H youth career preparation, money management and entrepreneurship programs, read the 2016 Impact Report: “Preparing Michigan Youth for Future Careers and Employment.”

 

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. Reprinted with permission. 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).

On the shelf: ‘Live Right and Find Happiness (Although Beer is Much Faster)’ by Dave Barry

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , ,

By Grand Rapids Public Library

 

Need a lift? Try a bit of Dave Barry’s humor in his newest book.

 

Born in 1947, in the vanguard of the “Boomer” generation, Barry’s journalistic work has long provided a humorous slant to that demographic lump in the American loaf. As he’s gotten older, it’s worthwhile reading to see what Barry makes of how the overly self-absorbed generation has come to terms with its time on the field.

 

The chapter that resonated with me the most was the one where he is looking back on three generations, with a fourth one just coming onstage, and decides that his parents had more fun than he did.

 

“That’s not how it was supposed to be. My parents belonged to the Greatest Generation; they grew up in hard times. My mom was born in Colorado in an actual sod hut, which is the kind of structure you see in old black-and-white photographs featuring poor, gaunt, prairie-dwelling people standing in front of what is either a small house or a large cow pie…”

 

Dave speculates that the Greatest Generation may have triumphed by not realizing all the mistakes they were making — mistakes that the Boomers rectified by turning “parenting” into a verb, among other things. The laughter has a poignant bite to it, as Barry admits that “The harsh truth is that happiness is an elusive thing.”

 

But that does not slow the author down, as he travels to Brazil with his daughter for the World Cup, and goes to Russia with Ridley Pearson for a literature tour (the State Department tapped them to go). He meets David Beckham, tries Google Glass, and reveals a stunning secret confided to him by Johnny Carson about do-it-yourself home improvements. Great stuff!

 

Going back to a Dave Barry book was like meeting an old friend for lunch — you realize how much you’ve missed them and wondered where the time went.

Mammograms: What to Know Before You Go

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

By Amanda Avella, AmeriCorps Member at Cherry Street Health Center

 

What do I need to know about mammograms?

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, but thanks to improved treatment and detection methods the survival rate has grown to over 90%. Mammograms should be performed every year once you are forty years old. Below is what you need to know before you go in for your screening.

 

What should I do to prepare for my appointment?

  • You will be asked to remove your shirt, so you may want to wear a skirt or pants and not a dress.
  • Do not wear deodorant or perfume. These often contain chemicals that can make the images unclear.
  • To reduce discomfort, schedule your mammogram at a time you know your breasts won’t be tender or swollen.

What should I expect at my appointment?

  • Your breasts will be x-rayed using a special machine specifically designed for mammograms. To get the clearest image possible your breasts will be compressed. This will likely cause some discomfort.
  • Appointments take about twenty minutes, but the actual mammogram is only a few seconds.
  • Let the technician know if you have been experiencing any breast changes or problems.
  • You will be contacted with the results of your mammogram within ten days. If you don’t receive a call back do not assume that your results were normal. Make sure to follow up with your doctor if they do not follow-up with you.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

The Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program (BCCCNP) assists patients in paying for mammograms. BCCCNP has provided services for more than 5.2 million people since the start of the program. In 2015 alone, BCCCNP served 301,732 people.

 

What if other questions come up?

Please contact Jackie Demull, Women’s Cancer Screening Program Coordinator, at 616.965.8200 ext. 7099 or Zenaida Carcini, Clerical Assistant, at 616.965.8200 ext. 7373.

 

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

Wyoming Department of Public Safety investigating a suspicious situation

City of Wyoming, ,

On May 12, 2018 at approximately 2:01 p.m. officers from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to a suspicious situation which occurred on the southeast corner of Chicago Drive and Wendler Avenue. A witness observed a female walking east on the sidewalk on the south side of Chicago Drive, when a white Ford pick-up pulled onto Wendler Avenue. A male exited the truck and appeared to have a brief conversation with the female. He then grabbed the female and compelled her to get into the passenger side of the truck. The truck left southbound on Wendler Avenue. The exact nature of this exchange, the relationship between the male and female, or the circumstances that may have led up to this event are not immediately evident.

 

The truck is a white mid-2000’s Ford F-150 crew cab with an open bed and no topper. It had tan or beige trim starting at the bottom of the doors and running approximately one-quarter of the way up the side of the truck. The truck has “step-ups” on the sides of each door to assist in entering the vehicle. The truck had stock rims and no other distinguishable characteristics.

 

The female was described as a black female in her teens to early 20s, approximately five feet five inches tall, with an average build. She was wearing blue jeans, a pink shirt, and possibly a jean jacket. She had a short ponytail.

 

The male was described as a black male in his 20s to 30s, tall, with an average build. He had dread locks pulled back onto the top of his head and part way down the back of his neck. He was wearing a red t-shirt, blue jeans, and white tennis shoes.

 

If anyone has any information regarding the identity of these subjects, the whereabouts of this truck, or can clarify the nature of this exchange they are asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety’s Investigative Division at 616-530-7335 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345

Beethoven’s epic Ninth Symphony concludes Grand Rapids Symphony’s 2017-18 season

Entertainment, , ,
Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus

ByJeffrey Kaczmarczyk

Grand Rapids Symphony

 

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 is one of the greatest achievements, not only in classical music, but in all of Western culture.

 

After the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, Leonard Bernstein on Christmas Day conducted an international orchestra in performances of Beethoven’s Ninth in East Berlin that was televised throughout the world.

 

Sopano Jessica Rivera

Beethoven’s last symphony and his only symphony to use voices began as a defiant statement of freedom hurled at the repressive monarchies of Europe. Today, “Ode to Joy,” from the finale of Beethoven’sNinth Symphony, is the official anthem of the European Union. It’s not hard to see why.

 

“We should all be friends and get along and respect each other and fight together for a common goal,”said Grand Rapids Symphony Music Director Marcelo Lehninger of Beethoven’s Ninth. “What an incredible piece of music.”

 

Grand Rapids Symphony ends its 2017-18 season with Beethoven’s Ninth at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, May 18-19, in DeVos Performance Hall.

 

Mezzo–soprano Susan Platts

Lehninger will lead soprano Jessica Rivera, mezzo-soprano Susan Platts, tenor John Matthew Myers and baritone Richard Zeller plus the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus in the 10th and final concerts of the 2017-18 Richard and Helen DeVos Classical series. Guest artist sponsor is the Edith I. Blodgett Guest Artist Fund. Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus Sponsor is Mary Tuuk.

 

The piece is an emotional journey from darkness to light, from minor to major from chaos to order.

 

Tenor John Matthew Myers

“When I conduct Beethoven’s Ninth, I’m always immersed in these emotions,” Lehninger said. “Beethoven’s music does that like no other.”

 

The concerts also will include two contemporary pieces inspired by Beethoven. The concert opens with Variações Temporais, Beethoven Revisitado (Temporal Variations, Beethoven Revisited) by Brazilian composer Ronaldo Miranda, a witty, series of short, orchestral portraits, each inspired by another of Beethoven’s musical works. In 2014, Lehninger conducted the world premiere with the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra in Brazil.

 

Baritone Richard Zeller

Rounding out the program will be the world premiere of Testament by Grand Rapids composer Alexander L. Miller, who also is assistant principal oboist of the Grand Rapids Symphony.

 

Commissioned by the Grand Rapids Symphony, Testament, Beethoven’s 1802 “Heiligenstadt Testament” for Bass-Baritone, Chorus and Orchestra, takes its text from a letter that Beethoven wrote in 1802 to his brothers, expressing his anger and frustration at losing his hearing. Though he considers suicide, Beethoven declares he will live on for the sake of the music he has yet to write.

 

It’s also a letter that Beethoven never sent. It was discovered among his private papers following his death in 1827.

 

The concerts will be the first time Lehninger has conducted the Grand Rapids Symphony in one of Beethoven’s nine symphonies. It won’t be the last.

 

“One of my goals is to work in one or two Beethoven symphonies every season,” Lehninger said.

 

The story of the first performance of Beethoven’s “Choral” Symphony No. 9 in D minor is one of the legendary stories of music history. At the premiere in May 1824, Beethoven, with his back to the audience, stood near the conductor, giving tempos and following the score. When the performance ended, the alto soloist approached Beethoven and turned him around so that he could see the enthusiastic applause he no longer could hear.

 

    • 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 Beethoven’s Ninth program will be rebroadcast on Sunday, June 3, 2018, at 1 p.m. on Blue Lake Public Radio 88.9 FM or 90.3 FM.

 

Tickets are available at the DeVos Place ticket office, weekdays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. or on the day of the concert beginning two hours prior to the performance. Tickets also may be purchased online at GRSymphony.org.

 

Full-time students of any age are able to purchase tickets for only $5 on the night of the concert by enrolling in the GRS Student Tickets program, sponsored by Comerica and Calvin College. This is a MySymphony360 eligible concert.

School News Network: Drama is back, and Kelloggsville students are ready to act

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , ,
Junior Sam Resendez and senior Kayla Kern rehearse

 

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

Alexandrea Groters munched on an apple. Sam Resendez walked on his knees and prepared to stand up dramatically, and Israel Juarez-Perez flopped on the floor. Other cast members rehearsing the play “Honor Bright” practiced their own parts onstage, within a half-circle created by 13 traditional school desks.

 

Things were coming together. After five years without a program and, now, with a renovated auditorium, a stockpile of props pulled from storage and two enthusiastic new hires, Kelloggsville High School theater has been resurrected.

 

The district, which spent the last few years on construction and renovation at the high school, had closed the curtains on the theater program. But it’s showtime once again.

 

Sixteen students are learning the ropes of play production, from character development to improvisation, while rehearsing to put on the school’s first play under new directors. “Honor Bright” is scheduled to be performed May 18 and 19 at Kelloggsville High School.

 

Junior Sam Resendez and senior Kayla Kern rehearse

“My brother and sister had both gone through Kelloggsville and were in theater. I always loved going to the plays and musicals,” said Alexandrea the apple-crunching senior, who was one of the first students to sign up for theater. The program started in September with an after-school drama club. “It’s just fun; it gives me something else to do,” he added.

 

Students and directors are learning as they go. English teacher Shannon Dahlquist and social studies teacher Jeff Malinowski, both new hires this year, were asked to restart the program, though neither has a background in drama or performing arts, aside from Malinowski’s roles in theater as a high school student.

 

“What’s been challenging is we don’t have much experience so we are learning on our feet, but we’ve had a lot of student interest,” Dahlquist said. “What’s been really exciting is to see how excited the students are. They don’t have any experience, but they are willing to try and jump in with both feet.”

 

The fledgling troupe is starting small. “Honor Bright,” by Alan Haehnel, is about students contemplating cheating in school. The cast is performing just one 45-minute act.

 

Junior Sam Resendez plays a character who faces a tough decision

More Plays to Come

 

Future plans are to perform a fall play and spring musical each year. A drama elective class, to be taught by Dahlquist, is also starting in the fall, with about 75 students signed up for two sessions.

 

Alexandrea said she’s already learned how to “bring out my sass more” in playing Robin, a cheeky character. “I’ve learned more about trying to act a certain way, trying to make my emotions show.”

 

Jackson Johnson, a freshman who plays a character named Brian, said it’s nice to have a chance to perform.

 

“It’s a way to express yourself without being judged and you can be whatever you want to be. It’s a good escape,” Jackson said. “I noticed that the key is emotion and how you present yourself. You have to discard who you are and become this new person in the play, which is kind of cool because it’s being someone else.”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Sophomore Israel Juarez-Perez flops on the floor during play rehearsal

WKTV to air spacewalk from International Space Station

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Spacewalks at the International Space Station have been scheduled for May 16 and June 14.

By WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Wednesday, May 16, two NASA astronauts are scheduled to venture outside the International Space Station for a six-and-a-half-hour spacewalk, all of which area residents will be able to watch on WKTV Government channel 26. The spacewalk begins at 8:10 a.m.

 

Expedition 55 Flight Engineers Drew Feustel and Ricky Arnold will be conducting maintenance needs and upgrades for the International Space Station. The two will move a component called a Pump Flow Control subassembly (PFCS) from a spare parts platform on the station’s truss “backbone” to the Special Purpose Dexerous Manipulator (Dexter) robotic arm. The PFCS drives controls the flow of ammonia through the exterior portions of the station’s cooling system. Robotics controllers on Earth will use Canadarm2 and Dextre to perform final installation on the port-side truss for checkout. The spacewalkers will remove a failed PFCS and return it to the spare parts depot. They’ll also replace a camera system on the Destiny Laboratory and a communications receiver. 

 

A second spacewalk has been planned for June 14 in acceptation of the May 24 arrival of the Orbital ATK Cygnus cargo resupply spacecraft. The ninth Cygnus cargo mission is scheduled to launch May 20 from NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. The launch will be aired on WKTV Government channel 26. Coverage begins at 4:30 a.m. with the launch scheduled at 5:04 a.m.

 

Stay tune for the development of the Solar Arrays on the Pribital/ATK Cygnus Cargo Craft at 6:15 a.m. followed by a Post-Launch News Conference at around 7:30 a.m. 

 

For more information on NASA TV or the International Space Station, go to www.nasa.gov.

 

NASTA TV can be seen on the WKTV 26 Government Channel on Comcast and on AT&T U-verse 99 Government Channel 99.

The Orbital ATK Antares rocket, with the Cygnus spacecraft onboard, launches May 20. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Softball from Kellogsville, S. Christian on WKTV feature coverage schedule

Education, Going Local, Kentwood Public Schools, Recreation, Sports
Local high school baseball and softball action is on the schedule for the WKTV sports coverage team. (Supplied)

WKTV Staff

sportswktv@gmail.com 

 

May is when the baseball and softball schedule is reaching their season peaks, and (weather permitting) the WKTV feature coverage team will be at two key softball games this week, one at Kelloggsville High School and another at South Christian High School.

 

The tentative schedule for this week and next is below but show your support of the athletes and catch a game or two in-person, and then watch the replay.

 

Monday, May 14 — Girls Softball Belding vs Kelloggsville

Tuesday, May 15 — Girls Softball Unity Christian vs South Christian

Tuesday, May 22 — Boys Baseball West Michigan Aviation vs Zion Christian

Wednesday, May 23 — Boys Baseball Grandville vs East Kentwood

 

These and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.

 

WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports. (WKTV)

Typically, WKTV’s featured Monday games will be broadcast that night starting at 11 p.m. and following Wednesday starting at 5 p.m. The Tuesday games will be aired that night at 11 p.m. and repeat Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.; Both games will often be rebroadcast back-to-back on Saturdays starting at 11 a.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports weekly for complete feature broadcast schedules.

 

WKTV’s coverage of high school sports and community events are also available on-demand within a week of the event at wktvondemand.com.

 

 

Monday, May 14

Girls Soccer

East Grand Rapids @ South Christian

Wayland @ Wyoming

Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian

Godwin Heights @ Belding

West Michigan Aviation @ Tri-Unity Christian

Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Grand River Prep

Girls Tennis

North Muskegon @ South Christian

Boys Baseball

Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian

Belding @ Kelloggsville

Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian

Girls Softball

Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian (DH)

Christian @ Wyoming (DH)

Belding @ Kelloggsville (DH) – WKTV Featured Game

Muskegon Orchard View @ East Kentwood

NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights (DH)

 

Tuesday, May 15

Boys Baseball

Unity Christian @ South Christian (DH)

Christian @ Wyoming (DH)

Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River (DH)

Girls Softball

Unity Christian @ South Christian (DH) – WKTV Featured Game

Girls Soccer

Wyoming @ FH Eastern

East Kentwood @ West Ottawa

Zion Christian @ West Michigan Aviation

Girls Tennis

Muskegon Catholic Central @ Kelloggsville

Boys Golf

East Kentwood – OK Red Jamboree

Tri-Unity Christian @ Wellsprings Prep

 

Wednesday, May 16

Boys Golf

South Christian @ FH Eastern

Wyoming @ FH Eastern

Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian – OK Silver Conference Tournament

Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian

Boys Baseball

Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee

Kelloggsville @ Belding

East Kentwood @ Loy Norrix (DH)

NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights

Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation

Girls Softball

Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee

Kelloggsville @ Belding

Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian

Girls Soccer

Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins

Belding @ Kelloggsville

NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights

Holland Black River @ Tri-Unity Christian

Girls Tennis

Tri-Unity Christian @ Comstock Park

 

Thursday, May 17

Boys Baseball

South Christian @ Calvin Christian

Wyoming @ Christian

Godwin Heights @ Tri-Unity Christian

West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House

Girls Soccer

Middleville T-K @ South Christian

East Kentwood @ Hudsonville

Tri-Unity Christian @ Grand River Prep

Girls Softball

South Christian @ Calvin Christian (DH)

Wyoming @ Hamilton (DH)

Grand Haven @ East Kentwood

Hopkins @ Godwin Heights

Boys Golf

Holland @ Wyoming

East Kentwood @ Caledonia

Girls Tennis

Kelloggsville @ Christian – MHSAA State Regionals

East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – MHSAA State Regionals

 

Friday, May 18

Boys Baseball

South Christian vs FH Central @ Cornerstone University (DH)

Potter’s House @ Kelloggsville

Zion Christian @ Fennville (DH)

West Michigan Aviation @ NorthPointe Christian

Boys Golf

Unity Christian @ South Christian

Girls Soccer

Holland Christian @ South Christian

Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian

Wyoming @ Godwin Heights

Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation

Boys/Girls Track

South Christian – MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field

Kelloggsville – MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field

Godwin Heights – MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field

West Michigan Aviation – MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field

East Kentwood @ Lansing Waverly – MHSAA State Regionals

Wyoming – MHSAA State Regionals @ Grand Haven

Girls Softball

East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming Lee

Wyoming @ FH Central

Ottawa Hills @ Kelloggsville (DH)

West Ottawa @ East Kentwood

Comstock Park @ Godwin Heights

Girls Tennis

Wyoming @ Grand Haven – MHSAA State Regionals

Girls Water Polo

@ East Kentwood – MHSAA State Regionals

 

Saturday, May 19

Girls Softball

South Christian @ Otsego

Wyoming Lee @ Saranac

Boys/Girls Track

Wyoming Lee – MHSAA State Regionals @ TBD

East Kentwood @ Lansing Waverly – MHSAA State Regionals

Boys Baseball

Wyoming Lee @ Saranac

Calvin Christian @ Wyoming (DH)

Lakeview @ East Kentwood (DH)

West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian

Girls Water Polo

@ East Kentwood – MHSAA State Regionals

 

Monday, May 21

Boys Baseball

FH Eastern @ South Christian (DH)

West Michigan Aviation @ Wyoming Lee

Middleville T-K @ Wyoming (DH)

Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian

East Kentwood @ Grandville (DH)

Godwin Heights @ Belding

Boys Golf

South Christian @ Christian – OK Gold Conference Tournament @ Thornapple Pointe

Wyoming @ Christian – OK Gold Conference Tournament @ Thornapple Pointe

Kelloggsville @ Ottawa Hills

East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores

Girls Softball

FH Eastern @ South Christian (DH)

Wyoming @ Middleville T-K (DH)

Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian (DH)

East Kentwood @ Grandville (DH)

Godwin Heights @ Belding

Girls Soccer

Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee

Christian @ Wyoming

Kelloggsville @ Hopkins

East Kentwood @ Rockford

Grand River Prep @ Fruitport Calvary Christian

 

Meijer Gardens Tuesday Evening Music Club spotlights local, regional talents

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation,

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has announced a nine-show lineup for the Tuesday Evening Music Club with a diverse two-month program of live bands ranging from jazz to indie, rock to folk.

 

Taking place on the Gardens’ 1,900-seat amphitheater stage, the Tuesday concerts are free to Meijer Gardens members and include admission throughout July and August.

 

The line-up and show dates/times are as follows:

 

Hannah Rose and the GravesTones, with Rachel Curtis; July 3 at 7 p.m. Hannah Rose and the GravesTones offers a combination of funk, blues, country, jazz, and rock & roll, led by a songstress with a voice all her own. Rachel Curtis, a vocalist and 2018 American Idol contestant, will be backed by her band.

 

The Kathy Lamar and Robin Connell Band, and Soul Syndicate; July 10 at 7 p.m. The Kathy Lamar and Robin Connell Band will feature Kathy singing and Robin on the keys, with a blend of R&B, soul and pop and a tinge of jazz. Soul Syndicate is a cadre of the region’s most talented musicians, doing more than justice to the likes of Otis Redding, Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and more.

 

The Eric Engblade Quartet, with Wire in the Wood; July 17 at 7 p.m. The Eric Engblade Quartet, led by award winning singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Eric Engbland, has been called “folk rock with teeth.” Wire in the Wood is an eclectic selection of traditional and modern covers in the style of prog-bluegrass.

 

Valley Girl, with The Hacky Turtles; July 24 at 7 p.m. Valley Girl offers upbeat, indie-pop with reminiscences of 1980s’ synth. The Hacky Turtles offer a unique alternative rock with forays into folk and funk.

 

Lipstick Jodi, with Hollywood Makeout; July 31 at 7 p.m. Lipstick Jodi is an indie, alt-pop trio with a slight punk edge. Hollywood Makeout is an energetic punch of alternative rock, pop, garage and surf.

 

Nessa, with The Moxie Strings; August 7 at 7 p.m. Nessa offer a combination of classical, jazz, and Celtic influences, led by flutist and vocalist Kelly McDermott. The Moxie Strings offer a foot-stomping, rock-influenced, progressive spin on traditional Celtic and Americana classics and originals.

 

Franklin Park, with a Six Pak; August 14 at 7 p.m. Franklin Park, which reunited in 2010, are former classmates from 1969 and perform spot-on renditions of The Beatles, The Birds, The Rascals and more. Six Pak is a legendary all girl band, originally formed in 1967, performing the grooviest hits from that era.

 

Watching for Foxes, with Desmond Jones; August 21 at 7 p.m. Watching for Foxes is an Indie-folk rock driven by powerful, haunting vocals. Desmond Jones is a fusion of funk, rock and jazz, centered around melodic guitar riffs.

 

And the annual finale, will be Ralston & Friends; August 28 at 7 p.m. Local legend Ralston Bowles shares the stage with friends and collaborators from the community and beyond. A perfect end to a summer of musical fun.

 

Concertgoers are welcome to bring a blanket or beach-style chair to sit on. All concerts take place rain or shine (weather delays possible). A selection of sandwiches, snacks, water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available at the concessions counter. All beverages purchased onsite must be consumed inside the amphitheater gates.

 

Concertgoers are also welcomed to bring their own food, bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages. No glass containers are allowed. All beverages must be in their original sealed containers; any liquids in unsealed containers must be discarded at the gate before entering.

 

The amphitheater is currently being expanded and upgraded. The work is taking place over two years. Work on phase one will conclude for the presentation of the 2018 season and then resume to be fully ready for the 2019 season.

 

For more information visit meijergardens.org .

 

School News Network: Godfrey Lee passes sinking fund request

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Godfrey-Lee Schools’ sinking fund millage request was approved by voters. (WKTV)

Godfrey-Lee

 

3-mill, 10-year sinking fund: Yes 126, No 73

 

Voters passed a sinking fund which will put new Chromebooks in classrooms, update other technology and fund facility maintenance and improvements.

 

“On behalf of the Godfrey-Lee Board of Education, I thank our community for their support and investment in our school district,” said Superintendent  Kevin Polston. “Once again the Godfrey-Lee community has demonstrated their tremendous support for our public schools. The sinking fund approval will make Godfrey-Lee Public Schools safer, more secure, and connected with technology upgrades, throughout the district.”

 

Funds will become available to the district in 2019 after the summer tax collection and will provide a sustainable source of funding for technology and facilities for 10 years.

 

The fund will generate about $300,000 annually. It replace the current 1.9976-mill sinking fund, which expires this year.

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

5 Local Things You Need to Know: For the weekend, to start next week

Citizen Journalism, , , , ,

Wyoming: Lee High School hosts Copa Rebelde

At Lee High School’s Copa Rebelde and on other local fields, several local girls high school soccer teams will be in action this weekend.

 

The Lee High School girls soccer team, on Saturday, May 12, will host its first Copa Rebelde — Rebel Cup, for those of you not bilingual, which most of coach Gabriel Snyder’s team is.

 

And while the event should feature some great tournament soccer action, it will also be a community celebration of sorts.

 

“We are lucky to have a team and community that can embrace their cultural heritage as much as they do,” coach Snyder said to WKTV. “Copa is ultimately just a word but that word represents more than a tournament cup. It represents our small community’s strong ties with Latin America.

 

For more on the story, click here.

 

Wyoming: Fair Housing Seminar

 

Deadline for the City of Wyoming’s Fair Housing Seminar is fast approaching. Those interested in the May 21 seminar should register by May 14 by calling 616-530-3164. The event is at the Wyoming Senior Center community Room, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW from 9 a.m. to noon.

 

For more on the story, click here.

 

Kentwood: Brush-Drop Off Site Open

The Kentwood’s Brush Drop-Off site is open this Saturday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Kentwood residents can bring brush to the site located at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE.

 

The site will be open through June 7. Hours are 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday. Burning of brush materials is not allowed within the city. For more information, click here.

 

Local: Gravel Bottom moves into Ada

 

Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery will open a new facility as part of the Ada Village redevelopment project on Friday, May 11.

 

“We’ve put a lot of time and effort into making this feel similar to what the other Gravel Bottom was: welcoming and comfortable,” Matt Michiels, Gravel Bottom owner, said in supplied material.

 

The new bar will offers 20 taps, which will allow Gravel Bottom to have more “experimental styles” in rotation.

 

For more on the story, click here.

 

West Michigan: Tulip Time in Holland

Holland’s Tulip Time still has a lot of activities left before wrapping up this Sunday, on Mother’s Day. Tulips are blooming at a variety of locations including the Window on the Waterfront Park.

 

The Music Parade is this Saturday at 2 p.m. There is also an arts and craft show, carnival and a number of free activities taking place.

 

For more on the story, click here.

It’s good ‘vibe’-rations as Kentwood hosts third annual parks and rec gala

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, , , , , ,
Katelyn Bush

Community members and friends are invited to attend The Vibe, a Parks and Recreation gala benefiting Kentwood’s Adaptive Sports programs, which provide recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

 

Now in its third year, The Vibe will highlight the City’s adaptive water ski program – a one-of- kind program in Michigan that offers lessons and clinics for youth and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. All proceeds raised will be used to purchase a new ski boat to benefit the program.

 

Pam Buschle

The celebration will take place on Friday, May 18 from 6-10 p.m. at Stonewater Country Club, located at 7177 Kalamazoo Avenue SE in Caledonia. Featured speakers will include Katelyn Bush, Susie Kluting and Pam Buschle, who will share how Kentwood’s adaptive recreation programs have impacted their lives.

 

“The Vibe Gala is the perfect opportunity to connect with friends and colleagues in an upbeat environment while supporting recreation access to all in West Michigan” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “Our keynote speakers are three incredible women who have impactful stories to tell that underscore the importance of inclusive recreational opportunities. We welcome the community to join us for this remarkable event and to support our adaptive sports program.”

 

Bush is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist who has worked with Kentwood Parks and Recreation for the past three years. During a routine ultrasound in 2017, Bush and her husband discovered their daughter had a birth defect called myelomeningocele, the most severe form of spina bifida. While she has worked with children who have this diagnosis previously, Bush now navigates the maze of parenthood with a child who has a disability.

 

Susie Kluting

Kluting has played sled hockey for the Grand Rapids Sled Wings for more than 10 years, with sights on the U.S. Paralympic Team. Born with spina bifida, Kluting was introduced to sled hockey through Mary Free Bed’s Adaptive Sports program. She now uses her experience and expertise on to support, educate and empower children with disabilities and their families.

 

Buschle, a social worker at Kentwood Elementary Schools, developed a severe form of sepsis in 2013, forcing her medical team to amputate all four of her limbs to increase her chances of survival. Buschle uses prosthetics to live her life with joy, hope and purpose.

 

The evening will include dinner, dancing and a silent auction. The auction will feature items such as four passes to Action Wake Park, aVIP tour and tasting for six adults at Chateau Chantel, a one night stay and restaurant credit at Little River Casino, two adult round trip ferry tickets for Beaver Island Boat Company, and more. The auction will also feature sports memorabilia, golf packages, jewelry, and museum passes among other things.

 

Tickets for the semi-formal event are $100 per person and can be purchased online a kentwoodvibe.com or by calling 616-656-5270.

Tiptoeing through the tulips at Holland’s Tulip Time

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

It’s one of those years when going to Tulip Time may actually be one of the best times to see the tulips. 

 

The annual event runs through Sunday, May 13, — Mother’s Day — with flowers in abundance. A trip during this past weekend found the flowers at the Window on the Waterfront to be in full bloom, creating a colorful cascade for photographers of all skill levels. Tulips at Windmill Island were also in stages of blooming which assures that no matter when someone goes, they are bound to see the tulips. 

 

The Music Parade is Saturday, May 12. The parade is at 2 p.m.

 

There are a lot of free activities such as the Holland Friends of the Arts Show, the Tulip Time Quilt Show, and the 2018 Art in Bloom all at the Holland Area Arts Council, 150 E. 8th St. The Historic Plllar Church Tours starts at 57 E. 10th St. The Holland Garden Club Flower Show is at the Herrick District Library, 300 S. River Ave. and the Graafschap Heritage Center also has a show at 5973 Church St., Graafschap. 

 

A carnival is taking place at the Holland Civic Center lot, 150 W. 8th St., and the Dutch Market and entertainment is at the Commons at Evergreen, 480 State St. 

 

For a complete list of shows and events taking place along with parking tips, visit tuliptime.com.

Wyoming presents fair housing seminar

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The City of Wyoming will host a seminar for rental property owners and housing professionals.

 

Free and open to the public, the City of Wyoming invites residents to learn more about housing-related topics. The seminar will take place in the Wyoming Senior Center Community Room, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW on Monday, May 21 from 9 a.m. to noon.

 

Designed for Wyoming landlords, rental agents, property management personnel, real estate agents and residents, the three-hour training seminar will provide practical, up-to-date information to assist housing professionals in their daily compliance with fair housing laws, and provide information on local agencies and resources who address various housing-related needs.

 

Topics and speakers include:

  • “Don’t break the law – what you need to know as a landlord relative to Section 8” will be presented by the City of Wyoming Public Housing Commission
  • “Fair housing practices update – what are your responsibilities & how are you affected?” will be presented by the Fair Housing Center of West Michigan
  • “City of Wyoming rental inspections program update – what are the proposed ordinances relative to multi-family dwellings & rental inspections for manufactured housing?” will be presented by the City of Wyoming Building Inspections Department

 

The Rental Property Owners Association and Wyoming Building Inspections Department will be available after the sessions to answer any questions. To register, please call 616-530-3164 by May 14.

 

A continental breakfast will be served. Seminar completion certificates will be provided upon completion. The educational seminar is sponsored by the Wyoming Community Development Department and the Rental Property Owners Association.

 

For more information, call the City of Wyoming at 616.530.7266 or visit the City website at www.wyomingmi.gov. Follow the City on Twitter @WyomingCityHall and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CityofWyoming.

Infusing water with fresh fruit an easy, tasty way to hydrate

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , , ,

By Karen Fifield, Michigan State University Extension

 

Drinking enough water each day to stay hydrated can often feel like a chore, but, we know water is very important to keep our body working properly. According to United States Geological Service (USGS) water school, the human body on average is made of 60 percent water. The benefits to our body when consuming water each day are numerous.

 

Staying hydrated helps us:

  • Have healthier skin
  • Stay alert
  • Digest food
  • Maintain a healthy weight

Drinking enough water can be a challenge, but there are ways to make it easier. One popular way is to make fruit infused water and create a “water bar” — an area in your office or home set aside as a place where fresh drinking water can be found regularly. Adding fresh fruit to water can be a fun alternative to drinking plain water.

 

To make infused water, simply add washed fruit of your choice to a container of water and put it in the fridge to chill. Soon the flavor of the fruit will infuse the water. This drink can be a cool summer beverage or a little spice could be added to make a fall or holiday drink. Try adding a few sticks of cinnamon to an apple infused water and experiment with creating your own combinations.

 

Besides hydration, fresh fruit infused water has other benefits:

  • There is no food waste when all of the fruit is used.
  • It can be low-cost flavored drink option when seasonal fruit is used.
  • It contains no added sugar.
  • It is eye-catching.

Michigan State University Extension recommends you try infusing your drinking water with fresh fruit to help increase the amount of water you drink and stay hydrated.

 

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. Reprinted with permission. 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).

On the shelf: ‘The Biology of Desire: Why Addiction is Not a Disease’ by Marc Lewis

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment

By Grand Rapids Public Library

 

You don’t have to look very far to find instances of the destruction addictions can wreck. There have been plenty of them close to home, but the worst was perhaps forty-five years ago when my uncle and next door neighbor killed his brother and then fatally shot himself one afternoon. I’ve always wondered if his long time drinking didn’t have a hand in that tragedy. But many people drink, use, and get violently angry, without completely destroying their life — what causes the change from “social drinker” to alcoholic? From party use to obsessional need? Why would nature play such a cruel trick on us?

 

Lewis’s book goes a long way to explaining how our own evolved biology may push a natural neurological process to such an extreme that it is counter-productive. Nature’s solutions to problems can be kind of like a pay day loan.

 

Books touting a “new” science or cure for drug addiction often fall short in the “new” department, and leave one feeling, “that’s it? that’s all you’ve got?”, but Lewis’s book doesn’t over-promise, and delivers a thoughtful, well-researched look at the biological and emotional systems underpinning addictions. A great book for the layperson, as it’s not patronizing or dull, nor overly technical. Lewis illustrates how the brain systems developed and work to help us survive as a species, but how they can become enmeshed in a harmful death spiral. The actual people whose stories illustrate the neurological slide lend a human face to the problem since they are so very much like us.

 

This is not a depressing or narrow-focus book, but rather a work that considers evolution, society and culture; with divergent strands such as the Canadian First Nations study undertaken by U. of British Columbia, with its findings on culture loss and addiction, and Carl Hart’s work on a similar theme of enriched environment and addictions. Is addiction a disease? Depends on what we want to call a disease, but whatever we call it, there’s no easy way out, but there is much hope.

Local singer wins Meijer Summer Games national anthem contest

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Local singer, Macy Krupiczewicz, won the Meijer State Games of Michigan National Anthem Contest. Krupiczewicz will perform at the summer games opening ceremony on June 22 at East Kentwood High School in front of an estimated 6,000 people.

 

The Meijer State Games of Michigan hosts a contest to find an audience-favorite singer to perform the National Anthem at the opening ceremony. Contestants submitted videos of themselves performing the National Anthem, then viewers could vote for their favorite performer through Facebook. There are over 6,000 members in the Meijer State Games of Michigan National Anthem Facebook group, where Krupiczewicz was declared the winner by 66 votes over her competition.

 

“Everyone knows how much music means to me, so to have a fan base of people rooting and voting for me is amazing,” said Krupiczewicz. “If you put enough passion into something, you’re bound to get there some day.”

 

Krupiczewicz is originally from Byron Center, Mich. She is a Michigan State University alumna, where she received a degree in broadcast journalism. Next year she will move to Nashville to chase her singing dreams. She will continue to pursue journalism, but pursuing her dream is the biggest thing, according to Krupiczewicz.

 

Heglund-Sova Realty is a company specializing in all areas of real estate and property management. Their success is attributed to the combined years of experience from their professional team.

 

“Heglund-Sova Realty is overwhelmed with the amount of people who voted, and we wish Macy the best of luck singing the National Anthem at the Meijer State Games opening ceremony,” said Jim Heglund, president of Heglund-Sova Realty. “It’s an honor to be able to sponsor such a fun event in the Grand Rapids area, which brings people together from all over the state.”

 

GR Bar Association honors Kentwood’s Judge Kelly

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , ,
Judge William Kelly

In recognition of his service to the legal profession and community, Judge William G. Kelly of Kentwood’s 62-B District Court has been selected by the Grand Rapids Bar Association as the recipient of the 2018 Donald R. Worsfold Award.

 

Kelly was honored with the award during Grand Rapids Bar Association’s Annual Law Day Celebration and Awards Luncheon on May 1 at the University Club in downtown Grand Rapids.

 

The Donald R. Worsfold Award is presented when the association wishes to acknowledge and honor the contributions of a member whose service stands out for its extraordinary impact on the life of the community. In addition to Kelly, the Hon. Paul Sullivan and Hon. Janet Neff will also receive this award.

 

““I’’m humbled to be receiving this recognition,”” Kelly said. ““Service to my community, the legal profession and the Bar has always been of the upmost importance to me throughout my legal career and nearly 40 years on the bench.””

 

Kelly has served the Kentwood community as the City’’s first and only district court judge since 1979. He was elected in November of 1978, following his father, Joseph Kelly, who served as Kentwood’’s municipal judge from 1971-1979. In 2014, he was re-elected for a term that expires in 2020.

 

Active professionally, Kelly serves on the Foreign Language Board of Review and is a member of the Legislative Committee of the Michigan District Judges Association. Previously, Kelly has served as president of the Michigan District Judges Association; chair of the Judicial Conference of the State Bar of Michigan; chair of the National Conference of the Special Court Judges of the American Bar Association; chair of the Judicial Division Committee on Traffic Court Program of the ABA; member of the board of trustees of the Grand Rapids Bar Association; and member of the board of directors of the National Center for State Courts from 1994 to 2000.

 

Kelly has received numerous awards throughout his career, including: Marian Hilligan Public Service Award from WMU-Cooley Law School; William R. McMahon Award from the ABA for the most significant implementation of technological advances in a court of limited or special jurisdiction; Judicial Excellence Award from the Michigan District Judges Association; Peacemaker Award from the Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan and St. Thomas More Award from the Catholic Lawyers Association of West Michigan.

On Tap: Gravel Bottom moves in Ada; get smart on beer and beer cooking

3-bottom, Beer, Food, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Our Cities, ,

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org 

 

Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery will open a new facility as part of the Ada Village redevelopment project on Friday, May 11.

 

“We’ve put a lot of time and effort into making this feel similar to what the other Gravel Bottom was: welcoming and comfortable,” Matt Michiels, Gravel Bottom owner, said in supplied material.

 

The new bar will offers 20 taps, which will allow Gravel Bottom to have more “experimental styles” in rotation.

 

“This was the opportunity to upgrade our equipment so we can brew more styles and be even more creative,” Michiels said. “And we’re able to brew bigger batches of some of those mainstays.”

 

And Gravel Bottom is certainly considered to be part of the Ada community.

 

“Gravel Bottom has become a well-known pillar of the Ada business community and we’re excited about their move,” George Haga, Ada Township supervisor, said in supplied material. “Their new home and highly-visible location on Ada Drive are another example of the transformation that is taking place in the Envision Ada project.”

 

“It’s very important for us to be a part of this community. This is where we started. And it’s exciting to have this chance for renewal,” Michiels said.

 

There will also be a new kitchen serving meals designed by Chef Eric Benedict. The menu will feature locally sourced, seasonally influenced dishes, including small plates designed to pair with Gravel Bottom beers.

 

The brewery is also acquiring a vintner’s license, meaning customers can look forward to wines, meads, and ciders both made by Gravel Bottom and others.

 

For more information visit gravelbottom.com .

 

Experience Beer continues free beer-education series at Harmony Hall

 

Harmony Brewing Company. (Supplied)

Experience Beer West Michigan has already launched its 8th annual free beer education classes but there are still four of the five sessions planned for Mondays from 7-9 p.m. at Harmony Hall in Grand Rapids. This series will be hosted by beer education specialist Ben Darcie.

 

The May 14 discussion will focus on sour maturation in sour beers from a representative of Speciation Ales. The May 21 discussion will feature a field trip to Gray Skies Distillery with representatives from Gray Skies, Long Road Distillers, Bier Distillery and Thornapple Brewing Company speaking about distilling.

 

The classes will wrap up on June 4 and will feature a brewer’s round table with 10 area brewers answering questions and dropping knowledge.

 

To learn more about Experience Beer WM, visit facebook.com/groups/ExperienceBeer .

— Lindsay E. Papciak

 

Downtown Market offers cooking with beer class

 

The Grand Rapids Downtown Market will offer a class called “Cooking with Beer” on Tuesday, May 15 from 6-8 p.m.

 

The class, for ages 21 and older, will be allow for the making of a beer-inspired menu including a refreshing summer salad with beer vinaigrette, delicious beer-braised chicken, and chocolate stout cupcakes — yes, beer in dessert!

 

And you can complement your meal with your favorite brew, available for purchase from a curated list.

 

The cost is $95 per person. The market is located at 435 Ionia Ave. SW. For more information visit downtownmarketgr.com .

 

Lee high girls soccer hosts ‘Copa Rebelde’ with eye on Latino heritage

City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Recreation, Sports, ,
At Lee High School’s Copa Rebelde and on other local fields, several local girls high school soccer teams will be in action this weekend.

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

 

The Lee High School girls soccer team, on Saturday, May 12, will host its first Copa Rebelde — Rebel Cup, for those of you not bilingual, which most of coach Gabriel Snyder’s team is.

 

And while the event should feature some great tournament soccer action, it will also be a community celebration of sorts.

 

“We are lucky to have a team and community that can embrace their cultural heritage as much as they do,” coach Snyder said to WKTV. “Copa is ultimately just a word but that word represents more than a tournament cup. It represents our small community’s strong ties with Latin America.

 

“This event also brings in a community of athletes and their families because baseball and softball are playing tournaments on the same day. It will be a great day to be a Rebel.”

 

The Copa Rebelde field will feature the Lee varsity team hosting teams from West Michigan Aviation Academy and Wyoming Potter’s House Christian High School.

 

The schedule has Potter’s House vs Lee at 10 a.m., WMAA vs Potter’s House at 11:30 a.m., and Lee vs WMAA at 1 p.m.

 

Each contest will be 60-minute games, 30-minute halves with a 10 minute halftime. There will be no overtime, with tie games decided by penalty shoot out. The tournament champion will be determined by record, then point differential/shoot out victory.

 

The tournament counts as one game date against each team’s schedule per MHSAA guidelines.

 

This is not the first time Lee has hosted the Copa Rebelde, but the first time it was not a boys team tournament.

 

“We have hosted a boys tournament in the fall the last several years and decided it was high time we held one for our girls as well,” said John Cain, assistant athletic director at Lee.

 

“To the girls, it is an opportunity to play competitive soccer in a different format,” Snyder said. “This year’s team has not found a lot of success on the field but has shown a ton of leadership on and off the field. For them it is just another opportunity to showcase that leadership. I am excited to finally give them an opportunity for tourney play at our home field.”

 

While the Lee varsity team has a “rely on everyone approach. We do have a couple of surprising standouts this year,” Snyder said. “Kristy Medina is our primary forward; she is fast and can make you miss. She is a calm leader.

 

“Our entire starting defense — Jazmin Pena, Karina Lopez, Yesenia Santos, and Vanessa Camargo — have played the hardest on our team this year. Long games of multiple shots, these four are bruised up and still tough.

 

“Lastly, our keeper, Jennifer Hernandez. She moved up from JV in the beginning of the year and has really improved as the season has moved along.”

 

Up (early) for a Royal Wedding Party? 20 Monroe Live hosts viewing event

Entertainment, Local Entertainment
Prince Harry and Megan.

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

 

Where will you be for the Windsor Castle wedding of Great Britain’s Prince Harry and Meghan Markle? Probably not on the invite list, we assume. But you can still watch the pomp and circumstance in style at a local Royal Watch Party.

 

20 Monroe Live, located at 11 Ottawa Avenue NW, in downtown Grand Rapids, will be hosting an early morning party — and you can get on that invite list!

 

Royal Wedding of William and Kate was an event, so will the wedding of Harry and Megan. (Jens Rost)

20 Monroe Live’s Royal Wedding Party will be held Saturday, May 19, with doors open at 6 a.m., the show begins at about 6:20 a.m. as guest arrive, and the wedding set to start at 7 a.m. It will end at about 8 p.m.

 

Tickets are still available, and the box office will open at 5:45 a.m. that morning for last minute decisions.

 

The all-age event is sponsored by Channel 13’s My West Michigan. There is no dress code, but “fancy hats” are encouraged.

 

Admission includes and English breakfast buffet and one mimosa (or tea if its is a little too early for some champagne).

 

The breakfast will be provided by Applause Catering, cakes by Connie’s Cakes, chocolate party favors by Chocolates by Grimaldi. There will also be photo-booth style photos available from Mod Bettie Portraits.

 

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at livenation.com.

 

If you go, dress up and sound smart

 

A few facts you should know if you go (and want to sound smart):

 

Prince Harry’s real name — Prince Henry Charles Albert David Mountbatten-Windsor of Wales.

 

A Royal Wedding parade.

Where Prince Harry falls in current royal pecking order — Sixth in the line of succession to the British throne; after Queen Elizabeth II is her son Prince Charles, then Charles’ son Prince William, then William’s three children (Prince George, Princess Charlotte and the just born Prince Louis). Yes, there is another possible queen in the royal mix.

 

Megan Markle’s acting career — Starting in 2011, she portrayed Rachel Zane on the legal drama series Suits for seven seasons; her film credits include Remember Me and Horrible Bosses.

 

The witnesses to the wedding — there will be about 600 invited guests at St. George’s Chapel.

 

Where do the newlywed couple go after the wedding — A reception hosted by Queen Elizabeth II at St. George’s Hall in the castle.

 

Ya, and you will not get an invitation to that either.

 

Active living and diabetes

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , , ,
Walk Your Pet — Pets love to go outdoors, even on miserable weather days.

By Gretchen Stelter, Michigan State University Extension

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends physical activity to help control type 2 diabetes. This does not mean you have to endure more workouts, but incorporating activities into your daily routine will help. As always, talk to your health care provider before you change any daily routine that may affect your diabetes.

 

Focus on Movement: Forget the term exercise and replace it with movement. Thirty minutes of movement in 10-minute blocks is great. So, how can you do this?

  • Stroll With a friend: Time passes quickly as you strike up a conversation while walking.
  • Clean Your Home: To boost your calorie burn, dust, vacuum or scrub floors, to music: this will make you move faster and enjoy the chores more.
  • Walk Your Pet: Pets love to go outdoors, even on miserable weather days. Many times, they will take you on a nature adventure!
  • Gardening: You will use muscles you are surprised you have with all the digging, watering and stretching. Keep using them and as time goes by the muscles will not hurt.
  • Parking: If safe, park in the space furthest from the building. Those extra steps definitely add up!
  • Track Your Steps: Many phones have “FIT” apps on them or find a pedometer. You will feel more motivated as those steps add up and you will find you have a little completion with yourself.
  • TV Time Movement: During every commercial break get up and move. Stretch, dance or walk around the house. Do jumping jacks or march in place while watching the commercial. In one hour of TV you can accomplish 20 minutes of movement!

Everyone wants to be healthier. “Exercise and controlling your weight will help. If you have a goal to lose 5 percent of your body weight, this 5 percent will reduce health risks that are factors with diabetes such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and the action of insulin.” According to the CDC, you not only will have the above health benefits, but also the energy to do more activities.

 

With the onset of spring, try new activities. The fresh air, walking, visiting with friends and spring-cleaning will give you a new positive attitude and help control your diabetes.

 

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. Reprinted with permission. 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).

Radish variety can add flavor and crunch to your meals

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

By Mariel Borgman, Michigan State University Extension

 

As the seasonal farmers markets across Michigan begin to open this month and next, radishes of all sorts will be available from local growers.

 

Some popular types of radishes that you may see at farmers markets include:

 

Red Radishes

Red Radishes

These are the most common radishes found in grocery stores. They have a bright red skin and white flesh.

 

Easter Egg Radishes

Easter Egg Radishes

As the name might suggest, these radishes come in many colors ranging from deep purples, to reds, to pinks and whites. They are often sold in bunches of mixed colors.

 

French Breakfast Radishes

These long, thin radishes are white near the root end and pink at the top.

 

Black Radishes

Black Radishes

The skin on these radishes is dark brown or black and they have a very strong flavor.

 

Watermelon Radishes

A winter storage variety radish with green skin that reveals a magenta and white center when peeled.

 

Daikon Radishes

These radishes are white and long in shape, like a large carrot or parsnip. They are popular in Asian cuisines.

 

French Breakfast Radishes

Quick-picked radishes were a big hit among farmers market shoppers when Michigan State University Extension sampled them last year. These quick pickles are ready to eat in just 40 minutes, and don’t require canning as they are eaten fresh. Check out the four-ingredient recipe.

 

Plain, fresh radishes can be delicious on their own as a quick snack. Try them with different dips such as hummus or vegetable dip like the Tangy Yogurt Vegetable Dip recipe in this article from Michigan State University Extension. Other ways to enjoy radishes include roasting, using them to top salads, or shredding them into a slaw.

Daikon Radishes

 

Radish greens are also an edible and nutritious vegetable. Remove them from the root and store separately. The greens will keep two to three days in the fridge and are delicious sautéed and added to stir fry or egg dishes.

 

Michigan State University Extension’s Community Food Systems Work Team supports the development of local food systems in Michigan. The Michigan Fresh program has tips on growing, handling and preserving as well as healthful recipes to take advantage of the delicious Michigan-grown bounty from your back yard or your local farmer’s market. For more information, connect with your local community food systems educator by visiting http://msue.anr.msu.edu/or calling 1-888-678-3464.

Watermelon Radishes

 

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).

School News Network: Local business mentors have big impact on students

3-bottom, Kentwood Public Schools, , ,
Customer service representative Molly Hensch helps Young Fives student Nadia Mutoni identify letters

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

Fifth-grader Javar Lowe bounced a mini-basketball off the cafeteria wall and watched it rebound into a makeshift hoop, an empty trash can. “I made it!” he shouted, a huge open-mouthed grin spreading across his face.

 

Fourth-grader Kaden Thomas retrieves a basketball from a makeshift hoop, an empty trash can

Greg Smolka cheered along, ready to take his shot. The purchasing manager at Walther-Trowal, a machinery manufacturer in Kentwood, was spending 30 minutes mentoring Javar, just as he does every Friday.

 

Smolka and six co-workers, including Ken Raby, vice president and general manager of U.S. operations for Walther-Trowal, are “Friday Friends” at Discovery, each week, mentoring seven Discovery Elementary School students whom teachers have selected to take part in the one-on-one mentorship opportunity.

 

Ken Raby, whose wife, Betsy, is a paraprofessional at Discovery, said he was inspired to bring the majority of his staff on Friday mornings to invest in community children. He hopes to continue the program next school year. The Rabys previously helped connect mentors to Kentwood schools through Kids Hope.

 

“This is not a team-building organization. This is about mentoring kids,” Raby said.

 

Employees, who are away from work for a full hour, spend 10 minutes on academics with their students using math flash cards, reading or finishing worksheets, before spending the final 20 minutes just having fun: playing board games, shooting trash can hoops or launching a football across the cafeteria.

 

Purchasing Manager Greg Smolka takes a shot

For Smolka, it’s time well spent. “I grew up homeless for 12 years of my life,” he said. “If it hadn’t been for people like this who mentored me, I don’t think I’d be here today.”

 

Javar said he’s learned about Smolka by spending time with him. “He’s responsible and takes care of himself. When I grow up I’m going to choose something I’m good at and not be someone who’s bad.”

 

Customer service representative Molly Hensch sat on the floor with Nadia Mutoni, a Young Fives student, who was busy identifying letters on flash cards and eating cheese crackers. “She’s fun,” Nadia said of her mentor. “We play together. We do our letters.”

 

“I love it,” Hensch said about mentoring Nadia. “It’s wonderful. I think more employers need to do this.”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Cat of the week: Grumpy

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

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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 Big Sid’s Sanctuary. 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).

 

On June 18th, 2013, our sanctuary welcomed Grumpy to our fold; he had been TNR’d through Focus on Ferals. Born in the summer of 2009, Grumpy was being fed and sheltered for months by a kindhearted resident. He looked like hell with his whole body one huge mat, and he was constantly fighting with other neighborhood cats.

 

When Dr. Jen took him in for neuter, she knew he would be FIV. He had a war wound on his face and just had that look about him. Scrapper no doubt! He earned the nickname Grumpy as he walked around literally grumbling all the time. He had very distinct personal space zone and when other cats overstepped their boundaries, they got a stern warning. He does love people though — just wants them all to himself.

 

We were pleasantly surprised at just how docile and accommodating with regards to personal space Grumpy had become in the time FOF housed him. Grumpy is a gentle, giant-headed boy, who is more than thrilled to be living the cushy indoor life! This reformed sour puss is a complete love bug — sit on the floor and your lap will be commandeered until he decides to let you up!

 

We are so happy to have Grumpy as part of our family at Sid’s, but our ultimate goal is to find each and every one of our cats homes of their very own. After all these cats have been through prior to their rescue and placement with us, don’t you think they deserve that?

More about Grumpy:

  • Extra-large
  • Adult
  • Domestic medium hair & tabby mix
  • Black and white
  • Housetrained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Not declawed

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

 

NOTE: A $825 grant from Lil BUB’s Big Fund for the ASPCA will enable Crash’s Landing & Big Sid’s Sanctuary, to fund comprehensive exams for five Big Sid’s Sanctuary cats before going to their new home. Each exam would include a full blood panel, dental care, radiographs, urinalysis, antibiotics and pain medication, if needed. Big Sid’s caters exclusively to cats who test positive for FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) or FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus). FIV and FeLV are viruses that can, if they flare up, suppress a cat’s immune system. The shelter takes cats with FIV or FeLV from all over Michigan.

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.

5 Local Things You Need to Know: Headlines for the Week

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , , , ,

By WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

Wyoming/Kentwood: Transformando West Michigan

Shawn Kohlhaas, owner of Culinary Cultivations, talks to participants in the Transformando West Michigan program.

 

The West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce launched its newest intiative Transformando West Michigan, “Feeding Minds, Mouths, and Pockets.” The goal of this program is to provide Hispanic business owners currently working or with the desire to work in the food industry with the necessary financial tools and food safety knowledge to become successful. 

 

The inaugural class kicked off at Gordon Food Service. The class is six sessions over three months with those who complete the program receiving food safety certification required by the health department of any restaurant operator.

 

For more on the story, click here. 

 

Kentwood: The Vibe gala is coming up

Garrett Bazany in Kentwood’s adapted water ski clinic.

 

Got your tickets to the Kentwood Parks and Recreation’s The Vibe yet? The event is set for Friday, May 18. The third annual fundraiser benefits the Kentwood’s Adaptive Sports programs, which provide recreation opportunities for individual with disabilities.

 

Tickets for the semi-formal event are $100 per person and can be purchased online at kentwoodvibe.com or by call 616-656-5270.

 

For more on this story, click here.

 

Wyoming: Buck Matthews makes last appearance

Buck Matthews

Once known as the voice of West Michigan, Buck Matthews is on his farewell tour offering one last piece of advice: write down and share your stories.

 

Matthews will be at First & Main of Metro Health Village, 6812 Village Dr. SW, Wednesday, May 9, to talk about his latest book, “The Book in Each of Us.” The program is at 2 p.m. In the book, Matthews discuss the experience of writing and encourages others to do the same to share their stories.

 

For on this story, click here.

 

Wyoming: Concerts in the Park schedule announced

The Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission has released its 2018 Concerts in the Park line-up. The series runs from June 5 to Aug. 7. All concert are at 7 p.m. at Lamar Park.

 

To see the schedule, click here.

 

West Michigan: Local African-American music scene

A student-produced film on the history of black musicians in Grand Rapids will be shown Thursday, May 10 at Celebration Cinema North, as well as on Xfinity On Demand cable TV beginning the same day.

 

A student-produced film,  “Rhythm and Race: A History of African American Music in Grand Rapids,” on the history of black musicians in Grand Rapids will be shown Thursday, May 10, at Celebration Cinema North, as well as on Xfinity On Demand cable TV beginning the same day. The screening is at 6:30 p.m. followed by a panel discussion.

 

For more on the story, click here.

On the shelf: ‘China A to Z’ by May-lee Chai and Winberg Chai

Books, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Reviews, , , , ,

By Cher Darling, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch

 

Since the cost of traveling overseas is a little beyond my reach, I chose to do my traveling by armchair instead and read China A to Z: Everything You Need to Know to Understand Chinese Customs and Culture.

 

The “A to Z” is literal with the first selection about animals: such as dragons who are said to rule the five elements of earth, water, fire, air, and the heavens. The last selection is about Ziyi Zhang, who “is without a doubt China’s most famous actress in America ever since her star-making performance as the (butt)-kicking princess in Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000).”

 

One engaging theme of the book is information about appropriate behavior that would keep a visitor to the country from making social and cultural mistakes. An important part of this information is how to behave in a way that will ensure your own comfort with food, tours, and lodgings, but will not cause your hosts to “lose face”.

 

I must mention the martial arts topic, since it is so cool. The Shaolin Temple in China is the most famous of China’s martial arts schools, and a major tourist attraction. The martial arts are known as wu shu in China, and “Far from being seen as a sport or a means of fighting, wu shu is considered an art form, a philosophy, and a means to cultivate unity of the body, the soul, and the universe.”

 

Though each selection is only a page or two long, dozens of sources for in depth information are listed in the back of the book. So if you are like me and can only afford to travel in the company of a good book, China A to Z tells much about China and its history, the lifestyle of the people, and how to act while enjoying the culture of another country. Even if you have no plans to visit the wonderfully complex land of the dragon, the book gives many insights into the customs and culture of another part of this Global Village we call Earth.

 

 

Van Singel Fine Arts Center marks 20th anniversary, announces upcoming season

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , , , ,
The gang’s all here: “Church Basement Ladies: Rise Up O Men” comes to Van Singel Fine Arts Center. Photo compliments of Troupe America, Inc.

By Kathy Richards

 

The Van Singel Fine Arts Center is celebrating 20 years. In honor of that, the Van Singel will be presenting a series of shows featuring professional local talent, national concert artists, a national touring musical comedy and, of course, great jazz.

 

This season’s shows are (in order of presentation):

 

SWING NIGHT AT THE VAN SINGEL with GLENN BULTHUIS and
the 17-piece HARK UP BIG BAND
Saturday, October 6, 2018, 7:30 p.m.

Glenn Bulthuis returns with the 17-piece Hark Up Big Band for an evening of 24 Swingin’ Hits. For more than 10 years, Glenn Bulthuis and his bands have thrilled audiences with the Music of the Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel, and James Taylor on the Van Singel stage.  Now he returns with an all new 17-piece “Big Band” line up to perform the songs of Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Michael Buble, and many, many more.  Tickets are  $18/adults and $12/students including college students with proper ID.

PIANO MEN A Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John
Thursday, November 29, 2018, 7:30 p.m.
The Sir Elton John & Billy Joel tribute show is a night of hit songs, energetic performances, outrageous costumes, and true rock ‘n roll at its finest. Tribute Artist David James (Billy Joel), and Jeffrey Allen (Elton) each performs a solo set before joining together on stage in a dueling-piano style, with Piano2Piano rockin’ out to their Greatest hits. …… also adding funny performance bits, sing-a-long parts, and spontaneous humor. The show spans the the 1970s to current day. Tickets are  $37/adults and $22/students including college students with proper ID.

 

CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES Rise Up O Men
Tuesday, March 26, 2018, 7:30 p.m. 
Fans of the musical comedy series Church Basement Ladies will finally get to know more about the men of East Cornucopia Lutheran Church, in the new musical comedy, “Rise Up O Men.” This sidesplitting, uplifting peek into the lives of the rural Norwegian Lutherans who audiences first fell in love with in 2005 is the sixth chapter of the story begun in the original Church Basement Ladies. “Rise Up O Men” features familiar faces: Mrs. Mavis Gilmerson, Mrs. Vivian Snustad, and Mrs. Karin Engleson who would never leave the basement kitchen unattended, of course (who would make bars for the youth group meeting?). But as they busy themselves with preparations for the town’s 1964 Centennial Celebration, we get to see their coming-and-goings from the eyes of the menfolk, who have their own problems to solve. Karin’s husband Elroy, farmer Carl and Great War vet Arlo are joined in brotherhood by series staple, Pastor E.L. Gunderson. Their camaraderie unites them as they deal with furnace salesmen, looming retirement, rival Protestant denominations, the Pastor’s bad jokes, and Arlene’s even-worse cooking. Tickets are  $35/adults and $22/students including college students with proper ID.

 

COOL JAZZ
Friday, April 26, 2018, 7:30 pm
Get ready, set and go once again for a hot night of Cool Jazz featuring the nationally recognized Byron Center Jazz Ensembles along with an international jazz a musician. Tickets are  $18/adults and $11/students including college students with proper ID.

 

VICTORS OF CHARACTER
Thursday, September 27, 7:00 pm
Van Singel patron bonus! Patrons who purchase a ticket to any show in the 2018-2019 Van Singel season have the option to receive up to four free general admission tickets to the Gerald R. Ford Foundation’s presentation of Victors of Character. The powerful true story is turned into a live, on-stage performance that tells the narrative of a young Gerald Ford, his friend and teammate Willis Ward, and the 1934 football game that both tested and shaped their character. The Van Singel Fine Arts Center is proud to partner with the Ford Foundation to present Victors of Character: A Story of Loyalty, Integrity, and the Courage to Make a Difference.

 

All shows are reserved seating. Van Singel ticket patrons can design their own season and save from 5% to 15% off the cost of a full price ticket depending on the number of shows purchased. Groups also receive ticket discounts depending on the number of tickets purchased per performance.

 

To reserve seats, call or visit the Van Singel Fine Arts Center box office Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. or call 616-878-6800. Because of construction at Byron Center high School, the Van Singel box office will be closed from May 21 through August 27.  Patrons may email boxoffice.vansingel@bcpsk12.net anytime. Patrons can order tickets on-line through our website beginning July 1st at www.vsfac.com.

 

Less than 15 minutes south of Grand Rapids, the Van Singel Fine Arts Center, is located at 84th & Burlingame SW, just 1.5 miles west of US-131 in Byron Center.  The venue is at the east end of the Byron Center High School complex. For more information go on-line to www.vsfac.com.

Catherine’s Health Center receives $20,000 grant from CVS Health Foundation

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Non-Profits, Senior Living, , , ,

By WKTV Staff

 

The CVS Health Foundation — a private charitable organization created by CVS Health — in partnership with the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) has awarded a total of $30,000 in grants to Catherine’s Health Center (CHC) and Holland Free Health Clinic to help patients with diabetes and other chronic diseases, manage and fully understand their conditions.

 

The CVS Health Foundation recently extended its commitment to the NAFC with $1 million in new grants. The Michigan clinics are two of 49 free clinics across the country receiving funding as part of the Foundation’s ongoing effort to make quality healthcare convenient and affordable for more Americans.

 

“The rising cost of healthcare can make finding quality and affordable care harder to come by for many Americans,” said Eileen Howard Boone, president of the CVS Health Foundation. “Through our support of the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics, we’re able to increase access to quality care, improve chronic disease management and care coordination to help improve health outcomes for the most vulnerable patients and reduce health care costs in the communities we serve.”

 

Its $20,000 grant will allow Catherine’s Health Center in Grand Rapids to fund Partners in Health, a program that will support patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension with tools that will help them achieve better health outcomes. Patients learn the risks of their disease and participate in the development and coordination of their plan of care. Participants may also receive resources such as scales, home blood pressure and blood sugar monitors and needed medications, as well as connect with medical professionals to provide care and support.

 

“We have patients who haven’t had access to healthcare for a long time and come to us with very complex issues and multiple diseases,” said Karen Kaashoek, Executive Director of Catherine’s Health Center. “The grant will support the role of RN Care Manager to coordinate care before, during and after their visit, maximizing our provider time and empowering patients to take control of their health.”

 

Holland Free Health Clinic (HFHC) will utilize its $10,000 grant to support the clinic’s Diabetic Support & Education program, which is designed to equip patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live healthy lives.

 

The new funds bring the Foundation’s total contribution to NAFC to more than $4.5 million since 2015. To date, CVS Health and its Foundation has contributed nearly $300,000 in grants, event sponsorships, foundation scholarships, gift cards and product donations, among other initiatives and items, to nonprofits in the state of Michigan that align with the company’s purpose of helping people on their path to better health.

 

For more information on how the Free and Charitable Clinics will be utilizing their grants to improve community health, please visit www.cvshealth.com/NAFC.

 

High school sports on WKTV feature coverage schedule in May

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Recreation, Sports

Mike Moll, WKTV Volunteer Sports Director

sportswktv@gmail.com 

 

The month of May brings the end of the school year for seniors, graduations, and the start of the MHSAA state tournaments for the spring sports season as the last full month of the high school seasons is here.  WKTV will bring a variety of baseball and softball games throughout the month to also close out their broadcasting portion of the school year,

 

The tentative schedule is below but show your support of the athletes and catch a game or two in-person, and then watch the replay.  Check the weekly schedule to see when the games will be replayed.

 

Monday, May 14 — Girls Softball Belding vs Kelloggsville

Tuesday, May 15 — Girls Softball Unity Christian vs South Christian

Tuesday, May 22 — Boys Baseball West Michigan Aviation vs Zion Christian

Wednesday, May 23 — Boys Baseball Grandville vs East Kentwood

 

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

These and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99. Typically, WKTV’s featured Monday games will be broadcast that night starting at 11 p.m. and following Wednesday starting at 5 p.m. The Tuesday games will be aired that night at 11 p.m. and repeat Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.; Both games will often be rebroadcast back-to-back on Saturdays starting at 11 a.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports weekly for complete feature broadcast schedules.

 

WKTV’s coverage of high school sports and community events are also available on-demand within a week of the event at wktvondemand.com.

Here is your complete weekly schedule for local teams:

 

Tuesday May 8

Boys Baseball

South Christian @ Middleville T-K (DH)

Wyoming @ FH Central

Hudsonville @ East Kentwood (DH)

West Michigan Aviation @ Tri-Unity Christian

Boys Lacrosse

South Christian @ Muskegon Mona Shores

Boys/Girls Track

South Christian @ Wyoming

West Michigan Aviation @ Fruitport Calvary Christian

Girls Tennis

East Kentwood @ Wyoming

Ottawa Hills @ Kelloggsville

Girls Softball

Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian

Hudsonville @ East Kentwood (DH)

Boys Golf

East Kentwood @ Hudsonville

Girls Soccer

East Kentwood @ Caledonia

Tri-Unity Christian @ Fruitport Calvary

Grand River Prep @ Wellsprings Prep

West Michigan Aviation @ Algoma Christian

 

Wednesday, May 9

Boys Golf

Christian @ South Christian

Wyoming @ Christian

Boys Lacrosse

South Christian @ Kenowa Hills

Girls Tennis

South Christian @ Grant

Girls Softball

South Christian @ Holland Christian

Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins

Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights

Boys Baseball

Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins

Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights

East Kentwood @ Hudsonville

Potter’s House @ Zion Christian

Bloomingdale @ West Michigan Aviation

Girls Soccer

Belding @ Wyoming Lee

Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville

FH Eastern @ Wyoming

Godwin Heights @ Covenant Christian

Zion Christian @ Potter’s House

Boys/Girls Track

East Kentwood @ Hudsonville

 

Thursday, May 10

Boys Baseball

Middleville T-K @ South Christian

GR Crusaders @ Wyoming Lee

Kenowa Hills @ Wyoming (DH)

East Kentwood @ Hudsonville

Girls Soccer

Christian @ South Christian

Holland Calvary @ Tri-Unity Christian

Grand River Prep @ West Michigan Aviation

Potter’s House @ Kalamazoo Heritage

Girls Tennis

South Christian @ NorthPointe Christian

Comstock Park @ Kelloggsville

East Kentwood @ Kenowa Hills

Girls Softball

Kenowa Hills @ Wyoming (DH)

East Kentwood @ Rockford

Plainwell @ Godwin Heights (DH)

Boys Golf

East Kentwood @ Grand Haven

Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian

 

Friday, May 11

Boys Lacrosse

Kenowa Hills @ South Christian

Girls Softball

South Christian @ Rockford (DH)

Godwin Heights @ Coopersville

Boys/Girls Track

Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian – OK Silver Conference Meet

Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian – OK Silver Conference Meet

Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian

East Kentwood @ West Ottawa – OK Red Conference Meet

Boys Baseball

Hopkins @ Wyoming

Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Calvary (DH)

Boys Golf

Hopkins @ Kelloggsville 

Girls Soccer

Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville

East Kentwood @ FH Northern

 

Saturday, May 12

Boys Baseball

South Christian @ Zeeland East

Potter’s House @ Wyoming Lee –  Rebel Invite

West Michigan Aviation @ Kelloggsville – Liz Jensen Memorial

East Kentwood @ Jenison (DH)

Zion Christian vs Michigan Lutheran @ Holland Calvary

Girls Soccer

South Christian @ Catholic Central

@ Wyoming Lee – Copa Rebelde

Wayland @ Wyoming

Wellsprings Prep @ Zion Christian

West Michigan Aviation @ Wyoming Lee

Boys Golf

South Christian @ Wyoming

Kelloggsville @ Hamilton

Boys/Girls Track

South Christian @ Wyoming – OK Gold Conference Meet @ Houseman Field

Girls Tennis

South Christian @ Wyoming – OK Gold Conference Tournament

Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian – OK Silver Conference Tournament

East Kentwood @ West Ottawa – OK Red Conference Tournament

Girls Softball

South Christian @ Hudsonville

@ Wyoming Lee – Rebel Invite

Allegan @ Kelloggsville – Liz Jensen Memorial

Godwin Heights @ Ottawa Hills

Girls Water Polo

East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids – MHSAA State Districts

 

Monday, May 14

Girls Soccer

East Grand Rapids @ South Christian

Wayland @ Wyoming

Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian

Godwin Heights @ Belding

West Michigan Aviation @ Tri-Unity Christian

Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Grand River Prep

Girls Tennis

North Muskegon @ South Christian

Boys Baseball

Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian

Belding @ Kelloggsville

Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian

Girls Softball

Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian (DH)

Christian @ Wyoming (DH)

Belding @ Kelloggsville (DH) – WKTV Featured Game

Muskegon Orchard View @ East Kentwood

NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights (DH)

 

School News Network: Students’ film traces history, influence of Grand Rapids’ African-American music scene

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A student-produced film on the history of black musicians in Grand Rapids will be shown Thursday, May 10 at Celebration Cinema North, as well as on Xfinity On Demand cable TV beginning the same day.

By Charles Honey

School News Network

 

A student-produced film on the history of black musicians in Grand Rapids will be shown Thursday, May 10 at Celebration Cinema North, as well as on Xfinity On Demand cable TV beginning the same day. “Rhythm and Race: A History of African American Music in Grand Rapids” was created by Grand Rapids Public Schools students in the after-school video production studio at the West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology (WMCAT).

 

The film examines how the local black music scene influenced social justice and helped advance equity for African Americans. Premiered last year, it has since added an interview with Curtis Rodgers, cofounder of the Grand Land Recording Company, the first record company to sign Grand Rapids-raised soul and gospel star Al Green.

 

The free 6:30 p.m. screening will be followed by a panel discussion of the WMCAT student production team and teaching artist Mike Saunders. Register to attend here.

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Students in the WMCAT after-school video production program created a documentary on African-American music in Grand Rapids (courtesy photo)

Employment Expertise: Preparing for a Successful Career in Michigan’s Skilled Trades

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, How-To's, Local Business, Non-Profits, Our Cities, , , , , , ,

By West Michigan Works!

 

According to the Department of Talent and Economic Development, professional trades will account for more than 500,000 jobs in Michigan’s economy—approximately 15,000 new job openings annually—between now and 2024. But, there aren’t enough trained workers to fill these jobs.

 

How will those jobs get filled?

 

Employers are looking to apprenticeships to meet the critical demand for a skilled workforce. For job seekers, apprenticeships provide an excellent opportunity to earn a wage while learning the skills for a career.

 

If you are interested in preparing for a successful apprenticeship experience, the Going PRO Apprenticeship Readiness program can help you build the literacy, math and work-readiness skills needed to enter a U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship program. The summer program (May – September) offers:

  • a paid work experience with a local manufacturing company.
  • course credits and certificates at no cost to you!
  • a pathway to a registered apprenticeship, a nationally recognized credential and a great career.

With the skills you develop through a professional trade apprenticeship, you can earn a good wage and benefits sooner than you imagined. And be on the path to a successful career. Did you know the median salary of a professional trade is $51,000?

 

If you are 18 years of age (by June 4, 2018) and live in Allegan, Kent, Muskegon or Ottawa county, apply at westmiworks.org/goingpro or contact Wendi Shinn at wshinn@westmiworks.org for more information. Registration is open until May 14, 2018.

 

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

Johnny Mac’s opens in Kentwood, Chamber celebrates with ribbon cutting ceremony

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , ,
On the far left, Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Bob O’Callaghan and Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley welcome Johnny Mac’s to the Kentwood area.

On May 4, the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of Johnny Mac’s Sporting Goods at 3094 28th St. SE., Kentwood.

Founded in 1967, Johnny Mac’s is headquartered in St. Louis with retail locations in Missouri, Illinois, and Michigan. The retail stores — which has a slogan of “Your ‘Home Team’ Store — sell baseball, softball, basketball, boxing, disc golf, exercise and fitness, field hockey, football, rugby, ice hockey, inline hockey, lacrosse, racquetball, tennis, soccer, swimming, aquatic, track and field, volleyball, and wrestling goods, as well as backpacks and tote, cheerleading items, footwear and cleats, games, gym supplies, medical products and supports, performance apparel and trophies and awards. For more information about what the Johnny Mac’s offers, call 459-2002.

GVSU economist: Summer looks strong

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Brian Long is a local business forecaster. Credit: GVSU

By Dottie Barnes

Grand Valley State University

 

The stronger-than-usual performance of the West Michigan economy has continued into the opening of the second quarter of 2018, 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 April.

 

The survey’s index of business improvement (new orders) retreated to +28 from +34. The production index edged lower to +28 from +31. The index of purchases eased to +34 from +37, and the employment index rose to +23 from +19.

 

“Most capital equipment manufacturers continue to be positive, but there are some exceptions,” said Long. “Local automotive parts producers are still modestly expanding despite the slight downtick for the industry as a whole.”

 

Long said the office furniture industry is holding steady, but signs indicate the peak for the current business cycle has been reached. He said most industrial distributors reported a good month, much as they have since the beginning of the year.

 

The latest numbers reported by the Department of Technology, Management and Budget pegged Michigan’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for March at 4.7 percent. Long said from March 2017 to March 2018, payroll jobs in Michigan increased by 61,000 or 1.4 percent. The estimated unemployment rates range between 3.2 percent for Ottawa County to 4.2 percent in Barry County, all well below the state average.

 

The national U-6 unemployment rate, which includes various discouraged and marginally attached workers, has now fallen to a 17-year low of 7.8 percent.

 

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.”