At the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Star City, Russia, Expedition 55 crewmembers Drew Feustel of NASA (left), Oleg Artemyev of Roscosmos (center) and Ricky Arnold of NASA (right) pose for pictures Feb. 21 during their final day of crew qualification exams. They will launch March 21 from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on the Soyuz MS-08 spacecraft for a five-month mission on the International Space Station. Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center/Andrey Shelepin and Irina Spektor
Wednesday, March 21, NASA TV will be featuring the launch of the ISS Expedition 55-56 crew to the International Space Station, which area residents will be able to watch on WKTV Government 26.
NASA astronauts A.J. (Drew) Feustel and Ricky Arnold and cosmonaut Oleg Artemyev of the Russian space agency Roscosmos will launch on the Soyuz MS-08 spacecraft to the International Space Station from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The launch is scheduled for 1:44 p.m.
On Friday, March 23, tune back in to WKTV Government 26 for the docking of the ISS Expedition 55-56 Crew to the International Space Station. Coverage begins at approximately 3 p.m., with the actual docking scheduled for 3:41 p.m.
Next will be the hatch opening with a Welcoming Ceremony for the ISS Expedition 55-56 crew., Arnold, Feustel, and Artemyev will join Norishige Kanai from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Commander Anton Shkaplerov, from the Russian space program, and NASA Astronaut Scott Tingle all of whom are already on the International Space Station. Coverage of this event will begin at 4:45 p.m., with the hatch opening scheduled at approximately 5:20pm.
For more information on NASA TV or the International Space Station, log on to www.nasa.gov.
NASA TV can be seen on the WKTV 26 Government Channel on Comcast and on AT&T U-verse 99 Government Channel 99.
Peters Consumer Protection Provisions Pass the Senate
On March 16, the Senate passed two consumer protection provisions introduced by U.S. Senator Gary Peters that will help private student loan borrowers rehabilitate their credit and protect children from identity theft. The provisions were approved as part of a broader banking bill.
“Student debt is one of the biggest hurdles to financial success for young people,” said Senator Peters. “My commonsense provision will help student loan borrowers in default fix their mistakes and get back on track, while increasing the likelihood of repayment for lenders.”
Under current law, federal loans may be rehabilitated one time, and borrowers can repair their credit by removing a default. However, private lenders currently do not have the ability to remove negative credit information on borrowers who participate in loan rehabilitation programs. Peters’ provision, based on the bipartisan Federal Adjustment in Reporting (FAIR) Student Credit Act, he introduced with Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) would allow private student loan borrowers who have successfully completed a series of on-time payments to remove a default from their credit report. More here.
Peters Floor Remarks on Supporting Small Farmers
Peters’ Bipartisan Bill Would Strengthen Loan Program for Small Farmers
U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), spoke on the Senate floor March 15 on the need to preserve access to capital for small and disadvantaged farmers to start and grow their operations. This week, Peters introduced the Farm Service Agency Loan Flexibility Act, which will provide greater flexibility for the FSA loan program to provide loan and loan guarantees to farmers during periods of high demand. More here.
Committee Approves Peters Bills to Support Small Businesses
Bipartisan Bills Improve Awareness of Employee Stock Ownership Plans and Help Small Businesses Access Patent Protections
On March 15, the Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee approved two bipartisan bills introduced by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) that support small businesses. Peters’ bills will increase awareness of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and help small businesses protect their intellectual property through patents. Peters introduced both bills with U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID). More here.
Peters Statement on Bipartisan Bill to Boost Consumer Protections and Support Economic Growth
On March 14, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) issued the following statement on Senate passage of the bipartisan Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act:
“Commonsense financial regulation is essential to supporting Michigan families, growing our economy, and creating jobs. I am proud to have served on the House Financial Services Committee and the conference committee that wrote and finalized Dodd-Frank. This important law cracked down on risky trading and created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to protect American families. I am committed to defending these critical consumer protections and ensuring our financial regulators have the necessary tools to keep our economy stable and growing…” More here.
Peters, Colleagues Tell FCC That Mobility Fund Map Has ‘Gaps’
On March 12, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), joineda bipartisan group of Senators in sending a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai expressing serious concerns about the agency’s recently released Mobility Fund Phase II (MF II) map. The purpose of this fund is to allocate $4.53 billion over the next 10 years to preserve and expand mobile coverage to rural areas. More here.
Huizenga: Pregnancy Resource Centers Should Be Treasured, Not Targeted By Government
On March 14, Congressman Bill Huizenga spoke in support of pregnancy resource centers, the important role they play in communities across West Michigan, and the freedom of conscience. More here.
The Senate Financial Reform Legislation Should Be The Floor, Not The Ceiling
On March 14, Capital Markets, Securities, and Investment Subcommittee ChairmanBill Huizenga (MI-02) released the following statement after the Senate passed bipartisan legislation to reform Dodd-Frank and provide much needed relief to community and regional financial institutions.
“For years we have seen the one-size fits all regulatory structure of Dodd-Frank slow economic growth and reduce the ability of community financial institutions to lend to hardworking families and small business job creators across the nation. The bipartisan Senate legislation to reform Dodd-Frank is a good start; however it should be viewed as the floor, not the ceiling. Currently, there are dozens of noncontroversial, bipartisan bills that have passed the House dealing with additional issues that negatively impact consumers. I look forward to taking this opportunity to work with my colleagues to strengthen the Senate reform package and include some of the bipartisan measures passed by the House to make the final legislation even more effective.”
By Lisa Boss, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch
At age 82 Felix Weinberg started writing down the history that he had tried to forget for 65 years.
“Anyone who survived the extermination camps must have an untypical story to tell. The typical camp story of the millions ended in death…”
The writing is simple and eloquent, and the story unfolds with a detachment that lends it a somber power, as if he is describing events from a hellish dream world.
Weinberg explains, “In the camps I tried to acquire the ability to look without seeing, listen without hearing and smell without taking in what was around me. I cultivated a kind of self-induced amnesia. I feared that being made to look at hangings, seeing piles of corpses on a daily basis, would somehow contaminate my mind permanently.”
In a reversal of our usual consciousness, he credits his night-time dreams of his beloved childhood in Czechoslovakia, with sustaining him during the bizarre waking hours.
The democratic republic of Czechoslovakia was short lived, and Weinberg’s happy life, along with the whole Czech Jewish community, came to an end with Hitler’s invasion of the Sudeten. His father was able to get out to England, but the rest of the family was detained, and the author’s teenage years from 12 to 17 follow the terrible road from the relocation to local Jewish ghettos, to the camps, and finally to the Nazi’s insane “final solution”.
The cover of the book speaks of depths of emotion that could never be adequately expressed. A beaming little boy, gazes admiringly, lovingly, at his older brother, as they stand together holding hands. Neither his brother nor his mother survived the camps.
“My brother was too young to work. I am convinced that, given the choice, my mother would have gone to the gas chambers with him but I doubt that was an option. I believe she died in some other slave labour camp. All my attempts to trace her, all my searches of archives for further information, have proved futile. It does not do to dwell on these thoughts if one wants to live the semblance of a normal life, but I invite anyone who wishes to share my nightmares to picture that group of children, including my terrified little brother, being herded into the gas chamber.”
Felix’s youth and strength aided him, and a large amount of luck, when so many died at every turn, going from Terezin, to Auschwitz-Birkenau, to Blechhammer, and the final death march to Gross-Rosen. He takes no credit for his survival, and often thanks others for every small kindness. There are many different kinds of holocaust stories, and all are deeply effecting. Felix Weinberg’s tale is one that no one should miss.
Staff from The Candied Yam serve up some of the restaurant’s specialties.
By Lindsay Papciak
Community Writer
The 17th Annual Taste of Kentwood took place this past Thursday, March 15, at the newly-renovated Kentwood Activities Center. The event featured 15 local favorites and each provided tastes of popular items on their menu. Guests had the chance to experience the diversity of Kentwood by attending one of two sessions during the evening.
Guests were welcomed into the Kentwood Activities Center with the smells of American and international cuisines. “[The Taste of Kentwood is] where neighbors and friends comes together and get to taste what’s great about Kentwood,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said.
Residents enjoying the Taste of Kentwood at the newly renovated Kentwood Activities Center.
“This event provides opportunity for local businesses to showcase their cuisine and advertise to new customers,” Kentwood Parks and Recreation Marketing and Events Coordinator Laura Barbrick said. “It’s a great way to sample restaurants that you’ve wanted to try or may not normally get to.”
Local favorite The Candied Yam featured the restaurant’s fried chicken and sweet potato muffins. Co-Owner Jessica Ann Tyson loved being able to share her heritage and favorite recipes with old and new faces. “This is where the community thrives,” Tyson said. “People are working and living and playing and this is the other side of it. We are working and they are playing. So taking the opportunity to mix us all together is really nice.”
Tallarico’s Boardwalk Subs featured its Italian sub as well as its ham and turkey with original ‘herb de provance’ which is an herb mayo on their house-made white or wheat bread. Owner Chris Tallarico now runs five locations, so the Taste of Kentwood is a place for him to reconnect with Boardwalk Subs regulars as well as share why they were voted “#1 Best Subs in Grand Rapids” in 2017. “The food part is easy,” Tallarico said. “One thing that sets us apart is the experience we give. We treat people at Boardwalk the way you would be treated at a full service restaurant.”
One local resident enjoys his food at this year’s Taste of Kentwood event.
Tallarico has held down a booth at this event since he opened his first Boardwalk Subs in Kentwood in 2003. “We keep doing Taste of Kentwood because of the people,” Tallarico said. “Everyone is smiling and having a good time.”
“This event continues to grow in popularity every year,” Barbrick said. “We estimate that over 500 people came through our doors throughout the evening. Eventually, we may need to relocate to a larger space, but it’s a good problem to have.”
For executive chef Joseff VanHorn, he believes “when God gives you a talent, you should embrace it.” Recently, VanHorn opened a permanent home for YoChef’s Catering based out of Kentwood.
“[Becoming a chef] is not what I wanted to do. I wanted to be an attorney or a doctor, but it wasn’t my calling,” VanHorn said. “When I accepted it, doors opened and I’m like ‘okay God, I get it.'”
VanHorn involvement with fine dining began when he was 16. He learned the ropes for the front of the house, but his passion was behind the scenes, even if it meant shucking oysters and cleaning mussels.
Chef Joseff VanHorn with Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley (left) and State Rep. Steven Johnson at the YoChef’s Catering ribbon cutting event. Photos by Tom De Vette.
With 20 years of experience as a general manager and 15 years as an executive chef, VanHorn thought “I could do this myself.” YoChef’s Catering was established in October 2009. “I didn’t have a pot to cook in but I had a lot of good friends in the ACF (American Culinary Federation),” VanHorn said. ” In February of last year, we had to find our own place, and that was a challenge.”
After more than eight years of borrowing time in four different kitchens, VanHorn and his team officially cut the ribbon for YoChef’s permanent home in February 2018. “I tried to escape [food] a couple of times and sold life insurance. I was young and almost starved to death,” VanHorn said. “I went back to food because you always know where your lunch is at.”
VanHorn considers his influence to come from old school chefs as well as his time in the Marine Corps from 1986-1990. “I was just a sponge when I was young and I learned from all the chefs just by watching and doing and mentoring,” VanHorn said. “I give them both props for what we do now and our standards of service and how we do our events.”
VanHorn also has had the opportunity to grow with the film industry in Grand Rapids by providing craft services for more than 14 productions. “[Catering for] the movies was a launching point for us,” VanHorn said.
Out of all the celebrity encounters he has experienced, the most notable was Bruce Willis.
Chef Joseff VanHorn with staff and Bob O’Callaghan from the Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. (Photos by Tom De Vette)
“I thought he was going to complain,” VanHorn said.
“He said ‘did you cook my salmon?’
And I said ‘yes Mr. Willis’
‘That was the best Salmon I ever had’
I’m like ‘oh cool.’ and I said ‘thanks Mr. Willis’ and he said ‘call me Bruce’ and I said ‘okay Mr. Willis’ That was the only time I was really star struck.”
VanHorn makes each client feel like a star by running his business as a ‘boutique caterer’. “We only want at the most to do two weddings at a time. I want to put the personal touch in everything we do,” VanHorn said. “Our secret ingredient is love. We love what we do and it shows in our customer service and in the quality of our food. I have a freezer that’s unplugged. I don’t do frozen.”
After establishing YoChef’s catering, VanHorn knows that he does not want to stop there. “I’m not the kind of person that will plateau,” VanHorn said. “We know catering works for us, and next we want to try a cafe. We have a great concept and a great menu. I’m just waiting. And when it happens it’ll happen. We never say no to opportunity.”
If you would like to learn more about YoChef’s Catering, visit their website at yochefscatering.com, or contact Joseff VanHorn directly at 616-558-1077.
All photos are by Tom De Vette, community contributor.
PF Michigan Group, LLC (“PFMG”), one of the nation’s largest franchisees of Planet Fitness health clubs, will celebrate the opening of its newest Grand Rapids-area location in Wyoming at 958 28th Street SW on March 20 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The grand opening event, which is being held with the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, is a free event and open to the public. It will kick off at 11 a.m. and include a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Immediately following, food and light refreshments will be served. The first 100 guests will receive a giveaway, and each guest will be entered for a chance to win a complimentary one-year PF Black® card membership and brand-new, 49” television.
Guests will have an opportunity to tour the new facility and network with other area businesses and residents. In addition, several local lawmakers, including Wyoming Mayor Pro-Tem Sam Bolt, will be present.
“We are very excited to be part of the community in Wyoming, giving residents access to our state-of-the-art facilities,” said Bryan Rief, one of the Northville, MI
-based franchise owners responsible for bringing Planet Fitness to Wyoming. In addition to Wyoming, Bryan and Laura Rief own and operate 38 other Planet Fitness locations throughout Southeastern Michigan, Central Michigan, Grand Rapids and Toledo.
Planet Fitness has plans to open an additional 12 to 15 Planet Fitness clubs in Michigan in the next 2-3 years, said Rief.
Tune in tonight at 8:30 p.m. for the West Michigan premiere of the latest video from the Tommy Marz Band, Tumble In The Rough.
This classic, originally done by the Stone Temple Pilots, gets an alternative take with the Tommy Marz Band’s familiar edge and is featured on their new album Seventy Trips Around The Sun.
After the video, Tommy sits down with us to talk about the new album and the group’s energetic live shows.
Hailing from Detroit, the Tommy Marz Band has shared the stage with many outstanding rock bands, including Grand Rapid’s favorite sons, The Verve Pipe.
Paragon D&E is a full-service tooling and machining company located in Grand Rapids, Mich. They design and manufacture tools and machines needed to make products in a variety of industries such as aerospace, oil & gas, automotive and many more.
Paragon D&E is currently seeking candidates for multiple openings. If you’re looking for a job, Britteny Willis, Human Resource Representative at Paragon, has shared some inside information about joining their team.
When you meet a job seeker at a hiring event, what questions do you want them to ask you?
Here are some of the questions that we look for job seekers to ask us:
What do you do at Paragon D&E?
What’s the coolest thing about Paragon?
What kind of benefits can I receive from working here?
Why is Paragon different?
Our family owned, privately held company has been around for over 75 years. Our employees are genuinely nice, care for each other, and are extremely dedicated to their work. They know how much we appreciate them and are constantly referring others to Paragon so they can join in the fun here. We serve many industries, allowing our employees to change careers without ever leaving the building!
What opportunities are currently available at Paragon?
Apprentices – Machinists & Mold Makers
Class-A Truck Driver
CNC Machinist (Nights)
Controller
Lead Mold Maker
Material Handler
Mold Maker
Supply Chain Clerk
Fill in the blank. When I’m not at work, you can find me _______.
Hunting, fishing, snowboarding, fixing my car, anything outside
Recently I was taking a walk-through Hope College’s campus. As I walked, I came across a mentor from the Ready for Life program. We talked about how she had been listening to the Hope College radio station and heard one of the Ready For Life students broadcasting his weekly radio show. She asked me about a graduate from last year, and I had the pleasure of sharing how she was employed and living with some other graduates of Ready For Life. We parted ways, and I kept walking. I soon encountered one of the Ready for Life students hurrying to get to her dance class. I walked on and came across a Hope College professor who shared he was eager for basketball season to get started and how thankful he was to have one of the Ready for Life guys help out with the team. I ended my walk at the Ready For Life classroom where ten Ready for Life students and five mentors were playing board games on a Friday afternoon. In my ten-minute walk across campus, I was able to see the effect the Ready or Life program has!
Ready For Life Academy provides an inclusive college experience for adults with intellectual disabilities at both Hope and Calvin College. The program was established to provide an inclusive transition option for students ages 18-26. This Spring we have 12 students at Hope College and 5 students at Calvin College. The students audit 2 college classes each semester. They also take life-skill/transition classes taught by a certified special education teacher. They volunteer on campus or out in the community starting their sophomore year in the 4-year program. On top of the educational experience, the students are also gaining social skills through relationships with mentors on campus. Each semester between the 2 campus’ we have 30-40 college students who mentor the Ready For Life students. The students engage in many different clubs and activities on the campus where they are having an opportunity to receive the college experience.
At Ready For Life we desire to give students a place where they belong. We want them to know they make a difference and that when they are absent, we miss them. Once the students feel connected to the college community, they can believe in themselves and learn how to become independent adults. Throughout their four years in the program they gain the skills necessary to achieve the two goals of the program: independent living and paid employment.
As a mother of two young boys with Down Syndrome and the Executive Director of Ready For Life, I desire for them to have an enriched life with every opportunity available to them. I must admit when we adopted our oldest son with Down Syndrome we didn’t think about him attending college. I am not sure if we thought much past kindergarten when he was twenty-one months. But now as he, nine years old, and his brother, six years old, are attending school with their peers and experiencing inclusion, I envision them experiencing college life following High School. The requirements needed to get into the Ready For Life program are now the long-term goals we share at their IEP meetings. Our boys see themselves on a college track; Nico is determined to go to Calvin, and Gus is determined to go to Hope — apparently, we will be a house divided.
If you are interested in learning more about your child’s future as a college student, check out the Ready For Life program at rflnetwork.org, or sign-up to come to our “Visit Day” at Calvin College on Friday, March 9, 2018, at rflnetwork.org/events.
With Spring Break around the corner and — believe it or not — summer not that far away, West Michigan Tourist Association Marketing Manager Courtney Sheffer offered some tips on a few places to visit.
A sunset view on the S.S. Badger
Ludington
This month, the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum has opened. Sheffer noted this is one of the newer attractions in Ludington with the museum featuring an extensive history on maritime activities. Along with the many authentic artifacts, there is a virtual reality experience where visitors can experience piloting the car ferry Pere Marquette 22 into Ludington’s harbor. The experience gives people a chance to learn the unique light signals of Lake Michigan’s many lighthouses as well, Sheffer said.
Then you can go from virtual reality to actually riding the last coal-fired steamship in the United States. The S.S. Badger makes its maiden voyage for 2018 on May 11 and runs through the last day of the season in October.
The S.S. Badger offers nostalgic, four-hour cruises across Lake Michigan to and from Manitowoc, Wisconsin twice daily in the summer season. Sheffer said visitors can also enjoy themed two-hour shoreline cruises in the summer such as the Fourth of July Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean Shoreline Cruise on July 25. For more on the S.S. Badger and its schedule, visit www.ssbadger.com.
Michigan’s Adventure
Muskegon
“It’s so close to the Grand Rapids area that it is a great day trip destination,” Sheffer said, adding that along with all of its out door activities, one of the biggest Muskegon attractions is Michigan’s Adventures, Michigan’s only adventure park.
Michigan’s Adventure, which opens in May, offers a number of rides from the Thunderhawk and Shivering Timbers roller coasters to the family fun of Lakeside Gliders and the Swan Boats. The 250-acre complex also has a waterpark, Wildwater Adventure, with wave pools and splash pads, with admission covering both parks. For more information, visit www.miadventure.com.
There is also the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, which is located inside the Muskegon State Park. There is cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding or sledding on five miles of groomed track. Also, the complex is home to one of four luge tracks in the nation, giving visitors the chance to feel what it is like to luge like an Olympian, Sheffer said.
The Heritage Landing Park at Hilt
Head just a little north of Muskegon to White Lake, where the Michigan Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing, operated by the Lakeshore Museum, will be opening in May.
“There is this path that you go through the park and walk on, and travel through Michigan history,” Sheffer said. “They say they have 10,000 years of Michigan history.”
There are many “make and take” vintage craft opportunities such as candle dipping and an opportunity to unearth a mastodon at a dig site, she noted. For more on the Lakeshore Museum Center go to lakeshoremuseum.org.
The Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum
South Haven
Everyone likes to head south this time of year and just south of the Grand Rapids area is South Haven.
“There are a lot of indoor history museums in the South Haven area and lot of these are free to visit as well,” Sheffer said. “So it is a good time of year to head south and do some of that.”
A few places to visit include the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum, which is the birthplace and childhood home of America’s “Father of Modern Horticulture,” Liberty Hyde Bailey Jr. The museum is a National historic Site and includes a garden, park and educational outreach center.
The gardens at the W.K. Kellogg Manor House
The Historical Association of South Haven has its home in the old Hartman School Building in South Haven and features a number of exhibits. And then there is the W.K. Kellogg Manor House in Hickory Corners, which was built in the 1920s by cereal magnate W.K. Kellogg. The home overlooks Gull Lake and there are free self-guided tours, but Sheffer said you do need to call ahead to reserve a spot.
For more ideas, check out the 2018 West Michigan Carefreee Travel Guide which is available at the WKTV station, 5261 Clyde Park Ave. SW or visit wmta.org.
“So there is a lot of information here, whether you want to stay close to home or maybe take a trip up north for the weekend or down south to like the South Haven area,” Sheffer said about the guide.
From start to finish, this year’s lineup promises to surprise, delight, and challenge audiences in the way only live theatre can. Civic Theatre’s 2018-2019 season is brimming with titles you will recognize from Broadway and your favorite books, along with one show so exciting that we are not able to reveal its name until later in the season.
Civic Theatre Executive and Artistic Director Bruce Tinker notes, “We were very fortunate to secure the rights to this show – but only if we agreed to withhold revealing the title until a later date this season. The chance to produce one of the most successful and entertaining musicals of recent history was too important to pass up.” Tinker continued, “As a community theatre, it isn’t unusual for rights to be released with strong guidelines. If a show is touring, currently on Broadway, or in production at an (equity) theatre in a geographic location deemed ‘near,’ then our rights are often restricted. One of the examples mentioned is the reason why we are keeping the title under wraps for now. We can share, this show will be produced on our stage February/March 2019 and . . .it’s a MUSICAL, it’s BIG, and it’s filled with FUN”.
There is a delicious sense of anticipation when you are waiting for the curtain to rise. For Civic Theatre, that moment is even more tantalizing with a season filled with love, mystery, sacrifice, dreams and an overall sense of WOW!!
Season Ticket Packages are on sale now, to purchase online visit www.grct.org, order by phone at 616-222-6650, or in person in Civic Theatre’s box office. Ticket Packages are $135. Single tickets will go on sale August 22.
Steel Magnolias
Playwright – Robert Harling
Sept. 7-23, 2018
From a small-town beauty parlor in Louisiana, the outspoken Truvy and her new assistant Annelle treat their clientele to shampoos, haircuts, and advice, not necessarily in the order. When the local socialite’s daughter marries a good ol’boy and decides to start a family, complications from her diabetes force all to face life’s big questions with the strength of steel and the fleeting beauty of magnolias.
Number the Stars
Playwright – Dr. Douglas W. Larche
Based on – Sean Hartley’s adaptation of Lois Lowry’s book Number the Stars
Oct. 12-21, 2018
Written from a child’s perspective, the play begins when Ella surprises her best friend Annemaire by arriving unannounced to spend the night. Not long after, Nazi soldiers appear at the door looking for Ella’s family, and Annemarie’s family claim that Ella is their own daughter. Annemairie realizes that all Jewish Danes are in danger, and their only hope is for their Christian neighbors to escort them to safety in nearby Sweden. Defying the law of the land, she steps up to help Ela’s family escape…but will they reach Sweden before it is too late.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid
Book – Doug Wright
Music – Alan Menken
Lyrics – Howard Ashman, Glenn Slater
Nov. 16 – Dec. 16, 2018
Always fascinated by the world above, Ariel’s longing becomes even greater when she rescues Prince Eric from drowning. Though her father warns her to stay away from humans, she eventually trades her beautiful singing voice to the sea witch Ursula, in return for a pair of human legs. When the bargain turns out to be more than it appears, Ariel needs the help of her animal friends Flounder, Scuttle, and Sebastian to overcome the witch’s evil plans and make a choice that will let her live happily ever after.
Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None
Based on Agatha Christie’s book, And Then There Were None
Jan. 11-27, 2019
As the story begins, ten strangers arrive on an island where they will meet their fate. Each one has a secret and shameful past – and each one is marked for murder. Who’s next? And whodunit? It’s impossible to say. Nevertheless, one by one, each guest meets his or her end in a way that mirrors the lines of the nursery rhyme, “until there were none”
Surprise Musical
Feb. 22- Mar. 17, 2019
Our licensing agreement prohibits us from revealing the name of this show until later this season. We look forward to lifting the curtain to reveal the title of this surprise musical. All we can say is; it’s a musical, it’s big and it’s filled with fun!
Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach
Book – Timothy Allen McDonald
Music & Lyrics – Bej Paskek and Justin Paul
Based on Roald Dahl’s book James and the Giant Peach
April 26- May 5, 2019
James finds a door in the peach and discovers a crew of fantastic creatures living inside, all transformed, by a potion, to giant size. When the peach rolls off the tree and into the ocean, the crew must work together to overcome hunger, battle sharks, and escape greedy aunts who are plotting to fumigate the peach and everyone inside. From the branches of the tree, to the Atlantic Ocean, to the skies above New York city, their daring exploits teach James’ and his new friends to work together and redefine what it means to be a family.
Disney’s Newsies
Book – Harvey Fierstein
Music – Alan Menken
Lyrics – Jack Feldman
Based on – Disney film written by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White
Originally Produced = by Disney Theatrical Productions
Mary 31- June 23, 2019
The strike begins when Pulitzer and Hearst raise distribution prices on their papers, forcing the newspaper boys to sell more to earn a living. Jack the paperboy steps up as leader of the Newsies, rallying underpaid newsboys across the city to stand up to the publishing titans. A friendly reporter’s interest in the story leads to a budding romance with Jack and publicity for the cause, but will the pressure be enough to make Pulitzer and Hearst bow to what’s right?
All Shook Up
Book – Joe DiPietro
Inspired by and featuring the songs of Elvis Presley
Young@Part Edition Adapted by Marc Tumminelli
Young@Part Edition originally produced at Broadway Workshop in New York City
First workshopped at Hoboken Children’s Theatre, NJ, Chase Leyner, Director.
July 26 – August 4, 2019
Loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night and Midsummer Night’s Dream, the story takes place in 1955, when a handsome stranger stops in town to get his motorcycle fixed and catches the eye of the gas station owner’s daughter, Natalie. When he fails to take interest in her, she disguises herself as “Ed” to get close to him and earn his trust. A case of mistaken identities and mixed-up couples create a web of comedy and confusion, and it becomes anyone’s guess if Natalie will find her happily-ever-after by the last song.
Alice’s Adventure in Wonderland
Playwright – Deborah Lynn Frockt
Based on – Lewis Carroll’s book Alice’s Adventure in Wonderland
July 27-August 3, 2019
The play begins on a lazy summer day, when young Alice follows the White Rabbit down its hole and comes upon a curious world with food and drinks that make her grow or shrink most inconveniently. Alice encounters a disappearing Cheshire Cat who warns her that no one around her is sane. She observes a series of puzzling adventures at the Mad Hatters tea party. She plays a game of hedgehog croquet with the King and Queen of Hearts, and holds a philosophical conversation with a Mock Turtle. When Alice finds herself on trial, she must draw on the new skills she has learned in this Wonderland, to save her from danger.
Calvin College is honored with 2017 Tree Campus USA® recognition by the Arbor Day Foundation for its commitment to effective urban forest management. Calvin is one of four Michigan institutions to receive the distinction. (University of Michigan, Washtenaw Community College, and Western Michigan University were also included.)
“Students are eager to volunteer in their communities and become better stewards of the environment,” said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Participating in Tree Campus USA sets a fine example for other colleges and universities, while helping to create a healthier planet for us all.”
Tree Campus USA, an Arbor Day Foundation program, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. The Tree Campus USA program honors colleges and universities for effective campus forest management and for engaging staff and students in conservation goals. Calvin College achieved the title by meeting Tree Campus USA’s five standards, which include maintaining a tree advisory committee, a campus tree-care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance, and student service-learning project. Currently there are 344 campuses across the United States with this recognition. This is Calvin’s sixth consecutive year being named a Tree Campus USA.
“Calvin’s Tree Campus USA designation shows the importance we place on not only the care and management of our existing trees, but also on campus involvement in planting new ones,” said Bob Speelman, Calvin’s landscape operations supervisor and a certified arborist. “Campus trees play a key role in making this an attractive, sustainable and enjoyable place to live, work and visit. I am pleased that our role as stewards of the campus urban forest has been recognized once again.”
The Arbor Day Foundation is a million member nonprofit conservation and education organization with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. The organization has helped campuses throughout the country plant thousands of trees, and Tree Campus USA colleges and universities invested more than $48 million in campus forest management last year.
In May 2017, a report from the Pew Internet and American Life Project revealed that approximately 67 percent of seniors over age 65 use the internet and that number continues to grow.
“We have residents that are very involved in emailing their family and friends or even using Skype to connect with family members who are unable to visit,” said Nancy Venema, Life Enrichment Coordinator at Holland Home’s Fulton Manor. “We have a 97-year-old resident with severe vision and hearing impairments who has taken our computer classes, so she could learn how to email her family who live outside of Michigan.”
What are the tools available today and how should seniors use them?
Email
Email is a wonderful way to stay in close contact with family and friends. It’s easy to set up a free email account at gmail.com, yahoo.com or various other sites. You can email messages, as well as photographs, documents and videos. And it’s virtually instantaneous, so there’s no waiting for the mailman to come.
Facebook
While Facebook use is declining among young people, 45 percent of seniors in the 65 and older age group are using the social networking service. Facebook is another great way to stay connected with family and friends. The newsfeed, which appears on every user’s homepage, highlights information including personal profiles, upcoming events, and birthdays of the user’s friends. It’s easy to share pictures, and to provide updates to several people at once. Facebook has a variety of privacy settings allowing you to choose how public you want your information to be. Registering is free and requires a valid email address. By accepting or not accepting friend requests, you can control who sees what you are sharing.
Twitter
Twitter is another online social networking site where you can send and receive “tweets” or updates limited to 140 characters. Users may subscribe to other users’ tweets – this is known as following and subscribers are known as followers. Unlike with Facebook, you cannot control who “follows” you on Twitter.
Messages can be categorized by using the # symbol, known as a hashtag or keyword. It is used to mark keywords or topics in a Tweet. For instance, “Check my Facebook page for a great #recipe for #apple #pie.” Anyone interested in recipes, apples or pies can search for those hashtags and follow the conversation.
Registering for Twitter is also free.
Skype
Communicating with someone via telephone and being able to see each other used to be the stuff of futuristic cartoons, but it is now a reality with Skype. The service allows users to communicate by voice using a microphone and by video by using a webcam, the camera that feeds an image to a computer. While Skype is not a form of social media, it is a wonderful way to stay in touch with family. Imagine being able to see, as well as talk, to your grandchildren or other distant family members who may be hundreds of miles away.
Pinterest
Pinterest is a virtual bulletin board where you can collect photos and links to things you want to save like recipes, DIY projects or travel destinations. By downloading the Pinterest “Pin It” button, you can click on a picture on the internet and save it to your bulletin board. When you click on the picture again, it automatically links back to the original site. You can have multiple bulletin boards, and pins can be collected according to themes.
“Technology is now a way of life,” said Michael Loughman, Director of Sales for Holland Home. “We have made computer classes available on all our campuses, and have volunteers who are willing to work one-on-one with our residents.”
Even if you decide not to try any of these social media tools, you will be able to surprise your children and grandchildren when you understand what they are talking about when they say they’ve been tweeting or Skyping or pinning or friending on Facebook!
The Kent County Board of Commissioners voted at its March 8 meeting to approve the sale of four properties on Monroe Avenue NW, just north of I-196, and to purchase a property on Ottawa Avenue NW, as part of a three-way public partnership that will clear the way for development of a downtown, riverfront park by the City of Grand Rapids and for expansion of the innovation park by Michigan State University.
Three riverfront lots at 511, 519 and 525 Monroe Avenue NW (totaling 1.285 acres) are being purchased by the City of Grand Rapids for $3.3 million, with funding from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund. In 2016, the Trust Fund awarded the City a grant for 75 percent of the price of acquiring almost four acres of riverfront property which include the County parcels; the remaining 25 percent is being paid by the City. Also included in the project is 2.4 acres owned by MSU and the City.
The County is also selling property across from the riverfront properties, 520 Monroe Avenue NW for $1.65 million. The property is currently used as a parking lot by the County, and is adjacent to other MSU-owned property. The County will purchase City-owned property at 601 and 617 Ottawa Ave NW for $1.33 million. The County plans to develop these parcels for employee parking to replace the 520 Monroe parking lot, and intends to have the site available for public parking after hours and on weekends. The Board vote was 16-to-0 (three Commissioners were absent today).
“This is more than a property sale; it is an investment in the future of Kent County,” said Jim Saalfeld, Chair of the Board of Commissioners. “This Board feels the uses proposed here are beneficial to the entire community, and this series of transactions support the future vision of all three public entities. This is yet another example of the West Michigan collaboration that keeps our region thriving.”
The City of Grand Rapids Planning Commission is set to take up the issue next week.
Filmmaking at Lee Middle/High School involves working together, operating technology from sound to lighting to editing, showing off acting chops –– and ferreting out some ghosts.
The rewards of a summer filmmaking experience are (not grimly) being reaped by Lee students who spent a week last June creating a 10-minute short film, as part of the school’s first summer Movie Making Extravaganza class offered by Kelly McGee, district’s media specialist and theater director.
Lee Middle/High School students pose during a scene of “Ghost Ferreters,” a film they created that won awards at the Kent County Teen Film Festival
Eight students created the film using the school’s audio-visual equipment and a previously written script, dusted off and adapted for Lee students by junior Luke McGee, son of Kelly McGee.
Luke said he was inspired by the iconic cartoon “Scooby-Doo” and the paranormal reality TV show “Ghost Hunters” to write the campy, ghostly caper. Lee Middle/High School, a historic building complete with classic architecture and a “tech graveyard where old computers go,” was the perfect set for ghost hunters to encounter more than they anticipated, Luke said.
“It was really interesting to learn how to pace a film over the course of a week,” Luke said. “I learned so much more about filmmaking than I ever had before, because I always made casual films and stuff for fun. This was much more of an intensive project, and it was a lot of fun to be able to learn how to use equipment and be able to learn how to make professional-type films.”
From left, junior Luke McGee; Kelly McGee, the district’s media specialist and theater director; junior Eddie Carter-Cook; and junior Janyia Corp hold their awards
Inspiring Experience
While the filmmaking was student-led, the cast and crew received guidance from local filmmaker Lauren Bailey.
The cast included Luke, sophomore Olivia Clark, junior Eddie Carter-Cook, senior Jacky Garcia, junior Jania Corp and Kelly McGee, who won the award for Best Adult Cast Member at the Kent County festival. Senior Jackie Lopez was the cinematographer.
“I learned what it was like to work behind the scenes, to work with a team and to be able to act and see how (the film) is going to end up,” Olivia said. “It was a lot of fun. I feel like I made a lot of new friends and I learned things I never thought I could learn.”
“It was very inspiring being able to work with the cast,” added Eddie. “Seeing some of the work that they’ve done inspired me to do more. It was really exciting. I’m hoping to be in more plays and do more in filming.”
Kelly McGee created the course with the mission of having students create a “movie the way it’s supposed to be made” in one week’s time, complete with script, sound checks, angles and lighting. He also wanted to expose them to an exciting career field.
“I wanted to create an experience that was closer to what they might see if they went into that field, and to give them an understanding of how much time, work and preparation is required to do something really well.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
A new episode of EP Adventures will be premiering Saturday, March 17 at 7 p.m. on WKTV Channel 25.
Here in Michigan, winters can be long and rough, according to Michael Endres, from EP Adventures. Come Spring, the EP Adventures staff is ready to ditch cabin fever and hit the woods for Spring gobblers, he said. In “Feathers a Flyin’!,” not only will you see hours of exciting adventures but you will also learn some great wild turkey recipes and how to properly make your own tail mounts. Ditch Cabin Fever and pull the trigger on this edition from EP Adventures!
Each week, WKTV features an adoptable furry friend (or few) from various shelters in the Grand Rapids area. This week, we focus on Humane Society of West Michigan, located at 3077 Wilson Dr. NW in Grand Rapids.
Humane Society of West Michigan’s mission is to rescue hurt, abused and abandoned animals and find them new, forever homes. The 501(c)3 non-profit organization helps over 8,000 animals annually and is 100% donor-funded by caring individuals and businesses in the community. Additional programs help reduce pet overpopulation, provide assistance to low-income pet owners, behaviorally assess animals and reunite lost pets with their owners.
Becca — Pit Bull Terrier/Mix
Meet Becca! She is a 4 year old Pit Bull Terrier mix. Becca is such a goofy girl who loves to to run around and show off her favorite toys. She would love a household willing to provide her regular exercise or has a fenced in backyard. Becca would make a great running partner! She knows several commands and is eager to learn. Becca has previously lived with a cat successfully. Her energy level should be considered around small children. Becca would do best with male dogs, however should meet any before going home with one. If you’re interested in her, please visit Humane Society of West Michigan.
More about Becca:
Animal ID: 37594097
Breed: Terrier, American Pit Bull/ Mix
Age: 4 years
Gender: Female
Size: Medium
Color: Black/White
Spayed
Here’s Ike!
Ike — Domestic Short Hair/Mix
Meet Ike! He is a 4-year-old domestic short hair kitty. Ike loves to pose for pictures, receive pets, and give nose kisses. He has lived with cats previously and seems to do well as long there are multiple litter boxes in the home. Ike would love a owner that allows him time and gives him patience to acclimate to his new surroundings. Ike would be a great addition to many homes! If you’re interested in him, please visit Humane Society of West Michigan.
More about Ike:
Animal ID: 37352065
Breed: Domestic Short Hair/Mix
Age: 4 years
Gender: Male
Size: Small
Color: Brown/Black
Neutered
Not declawed
The Humane Society of West Michigan automatically microchips all adoptable animals using 24PetWatch microchips, which include FREE registration into the 24PetWatch pet recovery service. For more information visit www.24petwatch.com or call 1-866-597-2424. This pet is also provided with 30 days of FREE ShelterCare Pet Health Insurance with a valid email address. For more information visit www.sheltercare.com or call 1-866-375-7387 (PETS).
Humane Society of West Michigan is open Tues-Fri 12-7, Sat & Sun 11-4.
Never ones to shy away from a challenge, Wyoming High School student actors are bringing to the stage the quirky characters obsessed with spelling their way to perfection in “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a show that combines raucous humor and music with underlying themes that hit home for youth.
Cast members who are presenting the PG-13-rated Tony Award-winning musical comedy recently sat down to talk about how humor and satire can be used to start dialogue.
Taking on their roles has allowed them to go deep into character development, while recognizing strong themes of isolation, anxiety and abandonment.
“It generally highlights a lot of the problems kids actually face today while growing up,” said senior Nick Byrd, who plays “touchy, on-edge” William Barfee. Those include pressure to over-achieve; a hard time making friends; and even for adults, problems moving on from their past.
Added senior Caitlyn Bulthuis, who plays spelling bee host Rona Perriti, “The humor the show brings to the audience is a way to start a conversation that needs to be talked about, especially around abandonment and always feeling like you have to achieve.”
Juan-Pablo Angel Marcos plays last year’s spelling bee champion
Caitlyn said many teens are overwhelmed by their hyper-scheduled lives, like some characters in the play.
“It’s a lot of pressure for kids and I think the kids in the play, even though they are excited to be in the spelling bee, they feel a lot of pressure to do well,” she said. “It’s a good way to start a conversation for students and adults.”
Another theme is winning at all costs, said Juan-Pablo Angel Marcos, who plays “boy scout” Chip Tolentino. There is so much emphasis on winning, he said, that characters dismiss other things that should be more important.
Senior Mellisa Hadzikic agreed.
“They are so focused on this one topic that it kind of consumes them,” said Mellisa, who plays the “shy” Olive Ostrovsky. “Their parents have these high expectations and want them to succeed, but the kids are under so much stress from other things that are happening, it makes them want to explode.”
Mellisa Hadzikic performs during rehearsal on stage
Many ‘Firsts’ for Theater Company
Jeremy Schnotala, 24-year Wyoming theater director whose repertoire includes high school performances of “Willy Wonka,” “Wizard of Oz,” “Cats,” and “Spamalot,” said the play includes a lot of firsts for the Wyoming Theater Company: It’s their biggest set yet, includes audience involvement that requires improv, and adds a “cheerleader” chorus that isn’t in the original production. Plus, serious issues span a wide spectrum of topics.
“What most excites me is how amazing my cast has connected with the story and with each of their roles,” Schnotala said. “I also love how the show juxtaposes humor and emotion. One minute you are laughing, and the next minute you’re crying. I’ve cried several times during rehearsal already. The show is honestly very touching and has some of the most tender moments, as well as the most raucously funny, of any show I’ve ever directed.”
Director Jeremy Schnotala has led Wyoming theater for 24 years, bringing big shows to the stage
Students said they love that Schnotala puts them up to big challenges.
“He respects us and understands we are people who are going to grow up and are growing up,” said senior Alexis Soto-Rodriguez, who plays the “desperate” Vice Principal Douglas Panch. “We are not just elementary school students who aren’t dealing with these grown-up topics. Not watering down or making it easier shows he has a lot of faith and respect in us.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
In Newcomer-USA conversations, one line frequently comes up: “We’re all immigrants, really.” While Feel Like You Belong is committed to telling immigrant stories, we acknowledge an important pre-immigration narrative that is too often missing. That is, the story of the indigenous peoples living on the continent for millennia before Europeans arrived.
We are proud to bring Native American author/activist Jacqueline Keeler to the table to share important stories absent from our U.S. history books. Part 1. Part 2.
By Tim Gleisner, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch
Every so often I feel compelled to suggest a book solely not only for the skill of the author’s writing ability, but for it’s social importance as well. The book, A Stronger Kinship by Anna-Lisa Cox, is just such a one.
A true story set in the town of Covert Michigan, during the latter half of the nineteenth century, it tells the tale of the town’s unique population. Covert is a small town of roughly 1,000 people in Van Buren County just outside of South Haven. It is a typical rural community in Southwest Michigan. People settled the area because the land was plentiful and could provide an income. Agriculture, in various forms, has sustained this community from the very beginning — first lumber, then fruit farming. Families went to church, school, formed businesses, all in all a community within the norm of American life. The quality that set this town apart was that the population of Covert was integrated at a time when America was not.
Building on the lives of runaway slaves, freed blacks, and abolitionist New Englanders, the reader encounters a group of people who felt that one was equal regardless of color. This attitude was nurtured while the Midwest was experiencing racism in various forms. Families lived on farms side by side, as well within the town. You learn of the first elected African-American official, of the town’s business leaders who came from both sides of the color line, and from families that were integrated and accepted by the populace as a whole. What is remarkable is that to this day this community has stayed true to the original conviction of the pioneer generation. It conveys the sense that intentional community is not always impossible, and that one’s morals can be lived out in ordinary life.
Anna-Lisa Cox is the recipient of numerous awards for her research. She is an active historian, writer, and lecturer on the history of race relations in the nineteenth-century Midwest.
In October, Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Tom Reeder tells the board of his district’s efforts to improve reading proficiency.
After 27 years of service to Wyoming Public Schools, Dr. Thomas Reeder announced his retirement which will take effect at the end of the school year.
Reeder began his career as a math specialist/coach in the District in 1991. He then served as Director of Academic Support for a short time before becoming Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction in 2002. Reeder has been Superintendent of Wyoming Public Schools for the past seven years.
Reeder said that he hoped when he retired, that he would be jealous of where the District was heading. And he is. He said, “I have been extremely fortunate to work with a staff who not only shared in an endless list of joys and proud moments, but worked tirelessly to make a difference in the Wyoming community.”
Superintedent Thomas Reeder
The Wyoming Public Schools Board of Education accepted Dr. Reeder’s retirement letter at its March 12 board meeting. “It is an ideal time for me to end this chapter of my life knowing full well that Wyoming Public Schools is in very good hands,” Reeder noted following Monday night’s meeting. “Together we have made a difference. I am proud of all that has been accomplished, but always wishing it was even more or faster.”
“My goal was to leave much more than I took and leave the District better than when I came.” He hopes he did that every day for the 550 staff and over 4,300 students he has served. “With all of you, we are Better Together at Wyoming Public Schools.”
School Board President Craig Popma noted the Board will begin the search for Dr. Reeder’s replacement immediately with the intent of having the new Superintendent start on July 1, 2018.
“Dr. Reeder is one of the most dedicated leaders Wyoming Public Schools has ever had. He is a true visionary and a champion in helping grow our schools and community” Popma said. “His drive, dedication, and commitment is why Wyoming where it is today. Dr. Reeder was vital in bringing Wyoming together through some very difficult times. There is no one I would have ever wanted to work with during the consolidation of our high schools other than Dr. Reeder. He was able to take a very difficult situation and make it a positive outcome for our entire district.”
Prior to coming to Wyoming Public Schools, Reeder taught Math at Mason County Central High School in Scottville, Michigan for six years. He graduated high school here in Wyoming and then went on to earn his Bachelor’s from Aquinas, his Master’s in Education from Grand Valley State University and his Doctorate in Education from Eastern Michigan University.
Dr. Reeder serves on numerous community boards as an advocate for the City of Wyoming.
Dr. Reeder and his wife, Maggie, plan to remain close to the Wyoming community and enjoy time with their four children and eight grandchildren.
The Grand Rapids Ballet will present the second of its two-part MOVEMEDIA: Diversity dance contemporary dance series March 23-25, with three additional diverse works by a diverse group of choreographers on the subject of diversity.
MOVEMEDIA provides emerging “choreographers an outlet to create new works and make a mark on the dance world, so we’re very excited to see what they bring to the stage,” Patricia Barker, Grand Rapids Ballet’s soon-to-depart artistic director, said in supplied material.
The three-dance program will be presented at the ballet’s Peter Martin Wege Theatre in Grand Rapids. Tickets are still available.
MOVEMEDIA: Diversity features six new world premiere works by young choreographers, this program will offer works by Olivier Wevers, Uri Sands and Danielle Rowe. Jennifer Archibald, Norbert De La Cruz III and Loughlan Prior presented works in the first program, last month.
The second weekend of MOVEMEDIA will feature three completely new, world-premiere works which will feature messages of “appreciation, positivity, and acceptance,” according to supplied material.
Sands is co-founder (in 2004) and co-artistic director of TU Dance. His choreography has received national recognition for the fusion of classical elegance with edgy contemporary action, for pulsating intensity with poetic lyricism, according to MN Artists (Minnesota Artists). He was a principal dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for five years, he also danced with Philadanco, Miami’s Fredrick Bratcher Contemporary Dance Theater, Minnesota Dance Theatre, and with North Carolina Dance Theatre.
Danielle Rowe (Supplied/Joris Janbos)
Rowe was born in Adelaide, Australia, andtrained at the Australian Ballet School before joining the Australian Ballet in 2001, where she danced for ten years as a Principal. In 2011, she left Australia to join Houston Ballet and in 2012 joined the prestigious Nederlands Dans Theater. According to SF DanceWorks, Rowe has performed in a large variety of works and worked intimately with many acclaimed choreographers, notably Jiri Kylian, Mats Ek, Crystal Pite, Wayne McGregor, Paul Lightfoot, Sol Leon and Alexander Eckman. In early 2015, she made her choreographic debut with Margarie & Thomas for Nederlands Dans Theater’s SWITCH program.
Olivier Wevers (Supplied)
Wevers is originally from Brussels, Belgium, and is the founder (in 2009) and artistic director of Seattle’s critically acclaimed contemporary dance company Whim W’Him. In 2012 Olivier was honored with the City of Seattle’s Mayor’s Arts Award and in 2011 he received the Princess Grace Choreographic Fellowship. He has also been named by Dance Magazine as one of their 25 to watch, according to Whim W’Him’s website. Olivier first began exploring choreography in 2002 while still a principal dancer at Seattle’s Pacific Northwest Ballet. He founded Whim W’Him to create a “platform, centered around choreography and dance, for artists to explore their craft through innovation and collaboration.”
Tickets for MOVEMEDIA: Diversity can be purchased at the Grand Rapids Ballet box office at 341 Ellsworth Avenue SW, online at grballet.com or Ticketmaster.com, or by calling 616-454-4771 x10.
“It’s noisy, it’s loud,” said Steven Christensen of an AirBnB located near his home along Mayflower Drive in Wyoming. “You are trying to sit in the living room, trying to relax and people are coming and going, slamming doors all the time. It’s just loud. I had one time with a wedding … I have to go to work at five and they are out there at three o’clock in the morning hooting and hollering it up.”
Christensen and his neighbor Andrew Hanselman attended a Wyoming City Council work session earlier this year to encourage the city to host public hearings on short-term rentals such as AirBnBs, VRBO, and HomeAway, in an effort to create a city ordinance to regulate them.
At its March work session, the Wyoming City Council reviewed an ordinance that would prohibit all short term rentals for non-owner occupied homes. The proposed ordinance will be presented at Monday’s regular council meeting, which is at 7 p.m. at the Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW.
“So, if I owned a house, I could rent my room or a room in the house, the basement or something as a short-term rental and that would be completely acceptable,” said City Manager Curtis Holt as he explained the proposed ordinance. “If I own a house and I bought a house just for the idea of an AirBnB that would not be acceptable. If I own a house and let’s say I would be out-of-town for long periods of time and I wanted to hold that house, it would not be acceptable to do short-term rentals with it.”
Holt acknowledged that the ordinance would address the one property the city has received two complaints about. In general, the city has not received a lot of complaints about short-term rentals. He said in a recent search, city staff found about six properties listed as short-term rentals. The most the city has had at one time is around 12, Curtis said.
“Well, understand this short-term rental issue is far more prevalent in tourist destination type towns…,” Curtis said.
The tougher challenge would be enforcement, Curtis said. Mayor Jack Poll said he could see that as if he goes away for the weekend and his children came by to stay, it would be tough to determine if they were renting or just house guests.
Still several council members liked the simplicity of the proposed ordinance and it gave something for the city to refer to when a property owner is blatantly obvious in not following the rules.
The ordinance could have a short life. At the state level, both the House and the Senate have bills — HB5403 and SB329 respectively — in committee that would prohibit municipalities enacting zoning ordinance bans of short-term rentals. Rep. Steve Johnson said during a January Government Matters, cities would still be able to regulate short-term rentals through such means as noise, advertising, traffic or other conditions. The house bill remains in committee, Johnson said.
“There is a battle going with one side on the private property rights of an individual who owns a piece of property versus local control and what control a local municipality can have on it,” State Senator Peter MacGregor said of the proposed Senate bill. In the past couple of months, there has been little movement on either the Senate or House bill.
Holt said municipalities have several concerns about the state bills. It is the belief of many community leaders, including those in the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, that to avoid inspection requirements, landlords would change their leases to 28 days or less.
“The majority of people who own residential properties do a great job,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley during the January Government Matters meeting, “but then you have have five percent who don’t and if they don’t have to do something they aren’t going to do something.”
To prevent a “one bad apple” scenario, Kepley said city officials are hoping to prevent that loophole so as to keep the neighborhoods nice. Currently the City of Kentwood does not have any regulations on short-term rentals.
AirBnB has opposed outright banning of short-term rentals but does support fair regulations. In an October 2017 Crain’s Detroit Business op-ed piece, a representative for AirBnB said “by taking the nuclear option off the table (the banning of short-term rentals), this law would encourage communities to collaborate with local hosts on commonsense rules…”
The most popular Michigan destinations for AirBnB travelers is Detroit followed by Ann Arbor and then Traverse City. Traverse City does regulate short-term rentals like bed and breakfasts. Traverse City’s ordinance requires owners must be present when renters are there, be licensed and cannot be within 1,000 feet of one another.
Last summer, AirBnB did strike a deal with the Michigan Treasury to collect use taxes. It is estimated that about $1.5 million would be generated through the tax. The move also will allow the state to track and collect the six percent use tax that applies to nightly rental charges on stays in Michigan hotels for periods of less than a month. However the six percent use tax, currently, does not come back to the municipalities.
On the latest episode of WKTV Journal: In Focus, two members of the Kent County Lead Task Force, a group which studied the issue of rising levels of childhood lead poisoning in Kent County, talk about a report recently presented to the County Commission which included a list of recommendations to combat the problem.
And just in case you think lead poisoning is only a problem of heavily urban areas such as Flint, consider that in 2016 the county being statistically the third worst in the state.
In Focus host Ken Norris talks with Kent County Commissioner Emily Brieve and Adam London, the Health Officer for the Kent County Health Department. And, at one point, Brieve discussed the role of local city governments and individual rental property owners as part of the solution.
“Each municipality, each city has different rules, different regulations for rental properties, and rental inspections,” Brieve said. “So one of the things that was part of our recommendations was to gather that information, to see what a good practice would be, going on, and what we could recommend to those municipalities, how they should address lead in their communities. … I think it is a multi-facetted effort. There is an awareness on behalf of the renter and also the property owner. It is an awareness of how to take care of the property, how to fix it up. And also local government, keeping an eye, making sure the rules are followed.”
Also on the episode, The Rev. Dr. Weldon Frederick Wooden, just Fred to his friends and congregation at Fountain Street Church, who is one of currently two Democratic candidates attempting to unseat Republican U.S. Congressman Justin Amash in Michigan’s District 3.
The entire episode of “WKTV Journal: In Focus” airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel.
The episode will debut on WKTV cable channels on Tuesday, March 13, at 6:30 p.m., will again air on Thursday, March 15, also at 6:30 p.m., and will continue on the same days and times the week of March 19. But all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVVideos.
From standing in front of a banner declaring “We Can Make the World a Better Place By…,” making paper circles with ideas for completing the thought and posting the hashtag #justiceforparkland, juniors Aliyah Rivera, Seth Martin and sophomore Michelle Rivera collected donations and messages of support to send to students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.
The Wyoming High students said they wanted to reach out to Florida peers who experienced the Feb. 14 mass shooting at their school.
“It was teenagers who were affected the most, so if we teenagers speak up about it more people will be aware,” Aliyah said.
Seth said teenagers are impacted no matter where they live.
“Just because I’m not in Florida doesn’t mean I’m not affected by what happened in Florida,” he said.
Written ideas for making the world better included “spread kindness,” “help each other,” “be a leader,” and “gun control,” among many others.
They also set up a video camera at the recent Wyoming Fine Arts Festival for people to share messages of sympathy and encouragement. Students are emailing their support to the Stoneman Douglas principal and theater teacher.
Gun violence is a complicated issue that needs to be addressed, Aliyah said.
From left, Seth Martin, Aliyah Rivera and Michelle Rivera create a show of support for Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
“There are so many different factors that fall into it. It’s not just one thing. People are so quick to point fingers at just one specific thing, and they aren’t looking at the bigger picture.”
The biggest thing she is an advocate for, she said, are better resources for mental health. “There are not enough people who understand it, who know what it looks like, who know how to help.”
Seth also has ideas for solutions.
“America as it is now can’t do much about controlling guns,” he said, “but they can do a lot about controlling the people who use guns. Doing stronger background checks, trying to keep safer gun control policies will really help.”
Michelle said it was important for them to speak up. “If teenagers don’t do something to help, nothing will change,” she said.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of high school sports. (WKTV)
WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org
The high school boys and girls basketball season is in the state championship playoff stretch, but due to Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) rules the WKTV sports truck is done for the winter season.
However you can still get out and see some action as this year’s girls Semi-Finals and Finals will be held on the campus of Calvin College at Van Noord Arena and the boys Semi-Finals and Finals will once again be on Michigan State’s campus at The Breslin Center.
The early start to spring high school seasons is also on the horizon as the first pitches will soon be thrown in boys baseball and girls softball, along with girls soccer, boys lacrosse, boys and girls track, boys golf, girls tennis and soccer, and girls water polo.
While the spring broadcast schedule for the WKTV sports crew is still being completed it it expected to include boys baseball, girls softball, and girls water polo.
In general, all games will be broadcast the night of the event on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 at 11 p.m. and repeat later in the week. The games can also be seen on AT&T U-verse 99. All games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com .
The complete schedule of all local high school sports for the remainder of March is as follows. For any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and features on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/ .
Monday, March 12
Boys Basketball
TBD @ Grandville – Class A MHSAA Regionals
TBD @ West Catholic – Class B MHSAA Regionals
TBD @ Climax-Scotts – Class D MHSAA Regionals
Tuesday, March 13
No local contests scheduled
Wednesday, March 14
Boys Basketball
@ Grandville – Class A MHSAA Regionals
@ West Catholic – Class B MHSAA Regionals
@ Climax-Scotts – Class D MHSAA Regionals
Thursday, March 15
Girls Basketball
@ Calvin College – Class C MHSAA Semi-Finals
@ Calvin College – Class D MHSAA Semi-Finals
Friday, March 16
Girls Water Polo
East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids
Girls Basketball
@ Calvin College – Class A MHSAA Semi-Finals
@ Calvin College – Class B MHSAA Semi-Finals
Saturday, March 17
Girls Basketball
@ Calvin College – Class D MHSAA State Finals 10:00 AM
@ Calvin College – Class A MHSAA State Finals 12:15 PM
@ Calvin College – Class C MHSAA State Finals 4:00 PM
@ Calvin College – Class B MHSAA State Finals 6:15 PM
Finny, the finback whale skeleton, greats visitors as they enter the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) will open its doors free of charge on Sunday, March 18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors will receive free general admission on this day to explore the Museum’s three floors of core exhibits at no cost, and get hands on with agriculture-themed activities from Kent County Farm Bureau and artifacts from the GRPM Collections.
“Thanks to Kent County Farm Bureau, we are excited to offer the community the chance to explore the Museum free of charge again this year,” said Kate Moore, Vice President of Marketing & PR at the GRPM. The Kent County Farm Bureau is sponsoring the event. “The GRPM continues to be the West Michigan hub for hands-on science, history and cultural education, and continue to increase access to the Collections for all.”
“On behalf of more than 1,200 Kent County Farmers, Kent County Farm Bureau is excited to welcome our City family and friends to the Grand Rapids Public Museum to see agriculture in action,” said Kent County Farm Bureau Board President Jim May.
Another popular exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum is the Streets of Old Grand Rapids.
The GRPM offers fun, hands-on learning opportunities for all ages through a variety of core and traveling exhibits. Visitor favorites include the Streets of Old Grand Rapids, an immersive exhibit that transports visitors back to 19th century of downtown Grand Rapids, and West Michigan Habitats, that showcases the vast wildlife found in West Michigan.
The current traveling exhibit Water’s Extreme Journey will be included free of charge for visitors on the Museum’s Free Day. Visitors will become a water droplet as they enter an experiential maze to learn about water conservation.
Additional experiences for visitors include the special traveling exhibit Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids, planetarium shows and the Museum’s 1928 Spillman Carousel – that are available for an additional charge.
The free day will be held during the Museum’s normal hours, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 18. For more information on the event, visit grpm.org.
Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids runs through May 20 at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids
Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids features models and replicas of preserved specimens as well as cast fossils of prehistoric animals to investigate how they could have, through misidentification, speculation, fear, or imagination, inspired the development of some legendary creatures.
Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids offers many interactive stations throughout the exhibition. Visitors can build their own dragon on an engaging touch-screen and watch it come alive before their eyes in a virtual environment.
Visitors touch casts of a narwhal tusk to discover how they lent credence to the centuries-old belief in the unicorn. Hands-on stations also include the lower jaw of Gigantopithecus (extinct group of apes) and a life-size reproduction of the talon of a Haast’s eagle.
Dragons, Unicorns, and Mermaids explores how some animals could have been misidentified as mythical creatures.
Admission to Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids is $12 for adults, $7 for children, $9 for Kent County resident adults, $4 for Kent County resident children, and $2 for all Museum members! Tickets include general admission to the Museum.
Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (amnh.org), in collaboration with the Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney; Canadian Museum of History, Gatineau-Quebec; Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Atlanta; and The Field Museum, Chicago.
Last year’s winning piece of art, entitled “Nostalgia,” was created by Ruby Henrickson of Ludington.
Congressman Bill Huizenga announced the start of the 2018 Congressional Art Competition for high school students across Michigan’s Second Congressional District.
“The Congressional Art Competition is a wonderful way for West Michigan students to showcase their creativity and demonstrate their artistic ability,” said Rep. Huizenga. “I look forward to seeing the innovative and imaginative artwork from aspiring student artists across West Michigan.”
The deadline for submission is 5 p.m. on Friday, April 20. All original entries should be submitted to Congressman Huizenga’s office in Grandville. Entries are limited to one per student.
The winning entry and finalists will be selected by a panel of local art and design professionals. The winning entry from each congressional district will be displayed on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. The winning artist will also be invited to fly to Washington, D.C. for a national reception honoring the winning artists from across the nation.
The 2018 Congressional Art Competition Rules and Regulations for both students and teachers can be found here. If you have questions regarding the rules, the competition itself, or submitting a piece of art, please contact Sarah Lisman in the Grandville District Office at 616-570-0917.
The City of Kentwood recently celebrated the area’s first Ashley HomeStore.
The new store, which is located on the former MC Sports location on 28th Street across from Woodland Mall, opened last week with a ribbon cutting on March 8 with the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce followed by a grand opening celebration on March 10.
The Wisconsin-based company is an American furniture store chain that sells Ashley Furniture products. Opened in 1997, the chain comprises of more than 450 HomeStore locations in North America and 520 locations worldwide. There are currently seven Ashley HomeStores in Michigan including the one in Kentwood. The other locations are in Lansing, Bad Axe, Escanaba, Westland, Saginaw, and Marquette.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the monthly Government Matters meeting. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org
Discussion ranging from international trade wars to local mental health care were presented Monday, March 12, as part of the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce’s monthly Government Matters meeting. But those spring pot-hole problems took center stage early.
State Sen. Senator Tonya Schuitmaker, and state representatives Tommy Brann and Steven Johnson — all of whom represent parts of the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood — discussed the state’s present and future spending on the state’s roadways.
A road funding plan passed by the Michigan Legislature in 2015 included an increase in gas taxes and vehicle registration fees to raise $1.2 billion for roads. And while those funds will be spent in yearly portions spread over six years as the gas tax is phased in and contractor schedules allow, the Legislature also recently passed an additional $175 million in road funding for the upcoming construction season, with part of that money due to flow to local counties and cities.
“We are trying to address the issue,” Sen. Schuitmaker told the various government officials at the meeting.
But, talking about the flow of state funds to local governments, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley expressed concern about the “long-term viability” of such state funding commitments.
A more detailed discussion on the issue, along with discussion on other issues such as the state’s response to the federal tax cuts, changes to voter registration procedures and funding problems with Kent County’s mental health programs, were part of the latest Government Matters meeting.
The monthly meeting brings together government leaders of all levels to discuss issues of importance and presents those discussions through WKTV’s live, delayed and on-demand broadcasts.
The Chamber’s Government Matters meetings include representatives of the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming, Kent County, local Michigan House of Representatives and Senate, and, often, representatives of other regional, State of Michigan and Federal elected officials. The next meeting will be April 9 at Kentwood City Hall.
The meetings are on the second Monday of each month, starting at 8 a.m. WKTV Journal will produce a highlight story after the meeting. But WKTV also offers replays of the Monday meetings on the following Wednesday at 7 p.m. on Comcast Cable Government Channel 26. Replays are also available online at WKTV’s government meetings on-demand page (wktvondemand.com) and on the chamber’s Facebook page.
Myth: All people with Down syndrome have a severe cognitive disability and cannot be active members of society.
Fact: Many people believe this. The misconception that Down syndrome affects all those with the condition identically and that, as a result, these individuals are unable to live independently or lead successful lives could not be further from the truth. At the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan (DSAWM) we work every day to ensure that myth does not overshadow truth. Educating West Michigan about the condition is a critical part of advocacy.
So, what is Down syndrome? Down syndrome is a genetic condition in which an individual has three, rather than two, copies of the 21st chromosome. It is the most commonly occurring chromosomal abnormality and occurs in one of approximately every 700 births. Those with Down syndrome often experience cognitive delays and have several physical identifiers including low muscle tone, small stature, and an upward slant to the eyes.
While it is true that some people with Down syndrome have severe cognitive delays, for most the effect is usually mild to moderate. Many individuals are enrolled in general education programs, attend college, marry, and have jobs. Just ask our intern Allie! Allie is 25 years old and in addition to working with our organization, has two other jobs, is taking a college course, and spends her weekends skiing.
It is important to remember that each person with Down syndrome is unique. When we limit our understanding of the condition, we limit the opportunities for those affected. Quality education programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends, and the community help people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
World Down Syndrome Day is March 21st, in honor of the third copy of the 21st chromosome. On this day, individuals with Down syndrome and advocates across the world raise public awareness and advocate for inclusion with community events and conferences with lawmakers. And don’t be surprised if you see people wearing brightly colored or mismatched socks on World Down Syndrome Day. The #lotsofsocks campaign encourages participants to wear their funkiest socks to get people talking and asking questions about Down syndrome.
At DSAWM we can’t think of a better way to celebrate our favorite extra-chromosomed friends on World Down Syndrome Day than by throwing a party! On March 21st we will be hosting a ‘70s themed Rock Your Socks Dance to raise awareness and celebrate our loved ones with Down syndrome. DSAWM staff, members, family, and friends will be boogieing the night away with snacks, crafts, a photo booth, costume contest, and, of course, dancing!
Join us at the Masonic Center in downtown Grand Rapids at 6pm for the grooviest get-down in town. Check out the DSAWM Facebook page for more details and to learn more about our organization and the fantastic community of eager and inspiring individuals whom we serve.
For more information, please visit the following links.
Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan: Dsawm.org
An East Kentwood graduate, who makes up one third of The Moxie Strings, will be heading to the Van Singel Fine Arts Center for a pre-Patricks Day celebration.
Set for Thursday, March 15, Alison Lynn along with her bandmates, Diana Ladio and Fritz McGirr, will be performing at 7 p.m. The trio brings its high energy show filled with traditional melodies and rock-influenced rhythms in one unique concert. The group will be joined by the Byron Center Orchestra ensembles.
Lynn performs on a newly-invented, electric cello, and Ladio plays a contemporary five-string violin, both through a variety of audio effects pedals. McGirr is the percussionist wizard. This nationally recognized group is known for its unique sound and redefining strings’ role in contemporary music.
Hailed by The Grand Rapids Press as “top-notch, instrumental wizardry,” The Moxie Strings offer listeners the unique opportunity to experience several of the world’s best known musicians. The Moxie Strings compose the majority of their pieces and arrange melodies from many traditions, resulting in a genre-blurring blend of ear-catching melodies and foot-stomping, rock-influenced rhythms.
Soon after forming in 2007, The Moxie Strings members were inspired not only to perform, but also to teach. Having made the exploratory journey from classical music to a world of eclecticism and musical creativity, the three have now dedicated their careers to helping young musicians make this life-changing and transformative transition. The Moxie String clinics focus on musical self-discovery and the importance of incorporating socially and culturally relevant genres of music in the music classroom. They have taught clinics in more than 100 schools throughout the US, and also present on their research and methodologies to teachers at many music education professional development conferences. During most clinics, The Moxie Strings perform for students on electric instruments, teach music by ear, and introduce non-classical playing styles. The group has researched and created an innovative sequence of activities designed to introduce improvisation to classically trained musicians, which they employ at every clinic. The Moxie Strings deliver its message in a fun, accessible way, and stand before students as the illustration of the many opportunities that music holds. The musicians will conduct a daytime workshop with Byron Center orchestra students.
Tickets for The Moxie Strings, $12 for adults and $10 for students, can be purchased in person at the box office or by calling 616-878-6800, Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. For more information go to www.vsfac.com or www.themoxiestrings.com. Tickets will be available at the door.
The Van Singel Fine Arts Center is located at the east end of the Byron Center High School complex, located at 8500 Burlingame SW, 84th Street and Burlingame SW, in Byron Center, just 1.5 miles west of US-131 and only 15 minutes south of Grand Rapids. The Van Singel Fine Arts Center features free, easy parking and curbside handicap parking is available.
The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) and the Michigan Dental Association Foundation are now working to organize an unprecedented statewide dental access program — the Michigan Mission of Mercy clinic, to be held June 2-3, 2018 at Calvin College’s Huizenga Tennis and Track Center, 3201 Burton SE in Grand Rapids. Approximately 2,500 patients are expected to be treated over the course of two days.
The clinic will be staffed with hundreds of volunteers from throughout the state of Michigan and neighboring states, including licensed dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. As patients enter the Huizenga Tennis and Track Center, volunteers will register them, take a basic health history, and then direct them to the appropriate treatment area. There are no qualifications or restrictions (except possible health issues) to take advantage of the free dental services.
All patients are examined by a licensed dentist to determine their most important need. Depending on the need, services may include cleanings, fillings, tooth removal (extractions), a limited number or root canals and treatment partials to replace front teeth. They are not able to provide caps, crowns, metal-based partial dentures, dentures, implants, bridges, orthodontics or extraction of wisdom teeth. Narcotics will not be dispensed. The patient and the treating dentist will decide the appropriate service that best fits each patient’s circumstances. An individual’s most severe problem (infection and/or pain) will be given first priority.
Only one major service is usually performed on each patient. Multiple extractions or fillings can be done at one time; however the patient will not receive both of these services at one time. Our philosophy is to provide services to as many people as possible rather than provide many services to fewer people. If a patient receives treatment on Friday, they can get in line for Saturday, too.
Children are welcome. Pediatric dentists will be on-site, especially trained to work with children, who will provide treatment in a gentle and caring manner.
Doors open at 6 am and all services at the Michigan Mission of Mercy are provided on a first-come, first-served basis until we have reached our capacity for the day. Our capacity is determined by the number of professional volunteers present and cannot be predicted in advance of the opening of the MOM event. Our goal is to treat as many patients as we can each day.
Since 2013, the MDA Foundation’s Michigan Mission of Mercy program has united hundreds of dentists, dental team members, and other volunteers to provide dental care, to disadvantaged individuals. From June 1-2, $3 million in dental health care services will be provided at no charge.
Treating patients in need is at the core of all Mission of Mercy events. Individuals interested in attending the 2018 Mission of Mercy event should go here to read through the information available here prior to arriving. Familiarizing yourself with the procedures and requirements will help the volunteers at the 2018 Mission of Mercy provide you with the best care.
Michigan Dental Association Foundation Mission of Mercy is entirely volunteer run and donation based. We have received very generous contributions from our MOM sponsors that allow us to bring in the equipment and supplies necessary for the clinic. Everyone working at the clinic is volunteering their time and talents.
You don’t feel well. You might go to the emergency room, where after initial triage, you’re taken to a hospital room. You’re in a gown, you’ve got an ID bracelet, nurses and doctors are visiting you, and you are given medication. You are inpatient, right?
Maybe not. Under Medicare rules for hospitalization, you can be admitted to a hospital under observation or as an inpatient. While the treatment you’re receiving might be almost identical, no matter your designation, under Medicare rules, it could be the difference between a co-pay or thousands of dollars in medical bills. It is important to understand the difference and know your rights when you are in the hospital.
An example, when Steve suffered a fall, resulting in broken ribs and a severe sprain, he spent 4 days in the hospital. Before returning home, he was transferred to a rehabilitation facility for two weeks in order to recover. After Steve returned home, he received an extremely large medical bill in the mail, because Medicare did not pay for his stay at the rehabilitation facility. He was dumbfounded. What he discovered through multiple inquiries was his status at the hospital was observation, not inpatient, prior to going to rehabilitation. Therefore, he was billed for his entire stay at the facility.
Bob Callery, MMAP Regional Coordinator explains, “When a person’s status is inpatient during their hospital stay, it is billed through Medicare part A. As long as they were inpatient during their hospital stay for 3 days, if transferred to a rehab to continue recovery, Medicare part A will pay for that stay as well. Observation, on the other hand, is billed through Medicare part B. If a person’s status is ‘observation’ and they are transferred to a facility, Medicare part B will not cover that stay and patients are billed for their time in rehabilitation.”
What can we do to avoid getting whacked with a huge medical bill?
Callery says, “Get the MOON!” That stands for the Medicare Outpatient Observation Notice (MOON). As of March 8, 2017, hospitals are required to give patients this form within 24-36 hours of an observation stay. The MOON will let you know whether your status is observation or inpatient and the coinsurance amount you might have to pay. It will also inform you that if you need to go to a skilled nursing facility after your stay in the hospital, your care will not be covered by Medicare if your admission status is observation rather than inpatient.
If you are in the hospital, you or your family member need to make sure you receive this form. Your physician’s decision to transfer you to a skilled nursing facility may be the best treatment decision for you, but s/he may have forgotten that you were originally admitted on an observation status rather than inpatient. In order for Medicare A to cover the costs of rehabilitation, you must be in the hospital under inpatient status for at least 3 days prior to being transferred. If your doctor wants you to continue to recover at a facility, your status needs to be changed before the transfer takes place.
Medicare, with all of its rules and various parts, can be very confusing and difficult to untangle. Remembering to ‘Get the MOON!’ will help you avoid unnecessary medical bills when you’re in the hospital. In addition, there is MMAP. This is Michigan’s Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program. MMAP’s purpose is to help “educate, counsel and empower” people about their Medicare/Medicaid programs and benefits. MMAP, Inc. works through the Area Agencies on Aging. MMAP can also help you appeal a Medicare bill you believe is incorrect, but more importantly, they can help you understand your coverage to avoid receiving those bills in the first place.
If you have questions about your Medicare plan, you can contact MMAP at aaawm.org 800.803.7174 or email aaainfo@aaawm.org. You can also visit www.mmapinc.org to learn more.
Deborah Rodriguez is an author who hails from Holland, Mich. originally. Hers is a warm, amusing story of her life’s liberation and journey of self-discovery in Afghanistan after September 11, 2001. This is also a memoir of discovery of the Afghan people and culture, the observation of the many daily hazards in the fallout of war and political upheaval.
I enjoyed her memoir of life events because although she recounts her early life in an abusive marriage and the demeaning, poor and sometimes violent lives of Afghan women, her telling is full of humor and unflinching honesty. The Afghans have a rich and fascinating culture and family tradition. It is interesting to learn such traditions as marriage arrangements and wedding planning. There are still very defined roles for each gender and the clash of modern influences, social change and tradition provide amusing stories to tell. Still, I found incredible and alarming the purposes of parents and potential grooms for the future lives of very young teen girls in marriage.
Ms. Rodriguez goes to Afghanistan to serve with a non-profit humanitarian group in disaster and medical relief. However, Miss Debbie as she came to be known, is not a medical professional but rather a hairdresser. As a hairdresser she has a natural gift for gab and befriending people of all kinds; she easily fits in with Afghans and Westerners alike. In no time at all she is overwhelmed with requests for hair care. Soon she discovers the local salons were shut down by the Taliban, or operating secretly under shortages and lack of cleanliness. Miss Debbie realizes the need for training and support of new hairdressers and salons in Kabul, and her future mission is set. She searches out financial and products support from international manufacturers and sponsors.
Throughout her struggles to start and run the new Kabul Beauty School, Miss Debbie determines to help bring empowerment, self-respect, and self-support to Afghan women, many whom she came to love as friends. You will find as I did the many individual stories — heartbreaking, incredible, or hilarious at times as you discover life behind the burqa veil in Kabul Beauty School.
