Two women who started national movements against acts of oppression will visit Grand Valley State University as keynote speakers during the campus’ 2018 commemoration of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
April Reign, creator of the viral hashtag #OscarsSoWhite, is slated as the speaker on Monday, Jan. 15; and Bree Newsome, who climbed a flagpole in South Carolina in 2015 to remove a Confederate flag, is the Wednesday, Jan. 17, speaker.
Reign is an attorney and writer who lives in Washington, D.C. In 2015, she sent a tweet critical of the 88th Academy Awards ceremony and lack of people of color nominated in major acting and directing categories. Her #OscarsSoWhite tweet went viral and was a catalyst for a social media movement and caused the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to change its membership policies and voting rules.
Reign now has a social media following of more than 100,000, and is listed among the top 15 accounts on #BlackTwitter by the National Journal. She regularly appears at academic institutions, entertainment networks and studios to speak about diversity and inclusion.
As part of a collaborative effort among Grand Valley, Grand Rapids Community College and Davenport University, Reign also will give presentations at GRCC, Fountain Street Church in Grand Rapids and Davenport’s campus during her two-day stay in West Michigan.
Bree Newsome
Newsome is a filmmaker and artist who was in the national spotlight in 2015 when the climbed a flagpole in Columbia, South Carolina — the state’s capital — to lower its Confederate flag. Her action came shortly after the mass shooting of nine African American parishioners at a church in Charleston, South Carolina. She was arrested along with another activist and soon #FreeBree was a Twitter trend and $100,000 raised for her $3,000 jail fine.
Her actions stirred the political pot in many communities. The Confederate flag was permanently removed from the statehouse by then-Gov. Nikki Haley and discussion moved across the country considering flags and monuments.
Newsome lives in North Carolina and works as an artist and community organizer. She earned the 2016 NAACP Image Award and was named to the Ebony 100, recognizing her commitment to civil rights.
Grand Valley’s 2018 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Week will run Jan. 15-20; visit gvsu.edu/mlkfor updates.
The first Parkview attendance celebration was a red-carpet affair for students like these kindergartners (from left) Major Weese, Benjamin Ramey, Taeja Gibson, Angel Gonzalez and Marianna Brault being recognized on stage. (All photos courtesy of School News Network.)
Parkview Elementary students shined, smiles spreading from ear to ear, as they walked down the red carpet laid out for them during a celebration of their success in getting to school nearly every day, all day.
Along with the grand Hollywood-style entrance, names of 260 kindergartners through fourth-graders were announced as students walked on stage in the Dan Heintzelman Fine Arts Center, honored for being in class 95 percent or more of the time during the first marking period. They then watched a movie with their families and went home with goodie bags. Beverly Reformed and Wyoming Park United Methodist churches sponsored the event.
The celebration, the first of three planned this school year, promotes family involvement in attendance, said Teresa Dood, Kent School Services Network community coordinator She works on the school’s attendance team with Principal Katie Jobson, social worker Micah Bell, KSSN clinician Staci Wolters, and Sarah Wildman, success coach for the Department of Health and Human Services.
Attendance is a critical piece to success in school, Dood said. “Kids miss critical building blocks when they miss school and days add up so quickly.”
About 8 percent of Parkview students were chronically absent for a range of reasons during the first marking period. The team takes multiple steps to remove barriers that are keeping children from school.
Those include transportation; unstable housing and homelessness; a parent who works third shift; and illness, anxiety and mental health issues. The staff goes as far as to help with car repairs, walk students to school, and connect families with health-care professionals. They make sure classrooms are stocked with hand sanitizer, tissues and cleaning wipes.
Superintendent Tom Reeder applauds as first-grader Kiara Thomas enters the building
Aligned with County-wide Goals
The countywide goal is for students to miss no more than five days per school year, said Mark Larson, Kent ISD’s truancy and attendance coordinator. Last year, Kent County education leaders — including a group of district superintendents, representatives from Kent County Juvenile Court, the Kent County School Justice Partnership and others — created a new policy with common definitions.
According to a study in Berrien County, replicated in other areas, top reasons students are kept home include parent-diagnosed illness, which includes the sniffles or other mild symptoms; routine dentist and doctors’ appointments for which parents pull students out midday and then don’t return; and parents placing a lack of value in attendance, including having older children stay home with younger siblings.
“When you look at it through that lens, it’s important the whole family values regular and consistent attendance,” Larson said.
Kristin Jacob and son, kindergartner Josiah, walk the red carpet to applause
Keeping Track of Days Missed
At Parkview, Dood and the staff review attendance records weekly, noticing patterns of absence early.
“Attendance is often an iceberg issue and really there are a lot of underlying things the family is struggling with,” Dood said. “When we talk to families, we try to look at it in a solution-focused manner: ‘What can we do to help you?’
“There’s not a one-size-fits-all solution to attendance, it really needs to be individual.”
Sometimes the solution is just to stress the importance of attendance, beginning in kindergarten, to parents who have an “it’s just kindergarten” mentality. Stressing appropriate bedtimes is also important.
At the Parkview celebration, parents posed for photos with their children. Tim Agema, father to third-grader Ellie and first-grader Landon, said attendance is a priority for them. The reason? “Of course, education,” he said. “That’s the biggest thing. You gotta be there every day.”
“Once you fall behind it’s hard to keep up. Every day matters,” added Kristin Jacob, mom to kindergartner Josiah.
Second-grader Sa’riyah Brown also knows why it’s important to be in class: “If you’re not there you don’t get to be smarter.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Parents also deserve recognition for making sure their students are in school as much as possible.
Wyoming and Kentwood’s local state government representatives were busy in Lansing in 2017, often on legislative action they felt passionate about. (Michigan Municipal League)
When it comes to working on public policy in Lansing, Michigan state legislators try to vote knowledgeably on wide range of issues. But they often have focal points for their efforts; legislative bills which they champion because they consider them uniquely important or, often, have a personal connection.
As 2017 comes to a close, WKTV asked the two state senators and two representatives who represent the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood to tell us about one of their legislative efforts that rose above the routine job of public policy and governance.
The answers ranged from combating the state’s opioid epidemic to supporting foster care parents, from protecting people by protecting their pets to a deeply held belief in the sanctity of the unborn.
Sen. Schuitmaker seeking an decline in opioid abuse
For Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker — Senate President Pro Tempore, R-26th District, which represents the city of Kentwood and Gaines Township in Kent County — a chance meeting with a constituent who lost her child to opioid abuse led her to focus on the issue and to work on several fronts to combat what some call an epidemic.
State Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker (R-26th District)
First, Schuitmaker sponsored legislation to allow law enforcement and first responders to carry the life-saving Naloxone, a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. Then, in 2015, she was appointed to Gov. Rick Snyder’s Prescription Drug and Opioid Abuse Task Force, which issued several recommendations including the use of the Michigan Automated Prescription System to deter over-prescription problems such as so-called “doctor shopping” and “pill mills.”
Senate Bills 166 and 167 are expected to be signed by the governor soon.
“Every community across our state has experienced the devastating effects of prescription drug and opioid abuse,” Schuitmaker said to WKTV. “My colleagues and I have heard from parents of victims, individuals who have suffered from addiction, medical specialists, law enforcement and many others.
“Though many tragedies have happened in recent years, Senate Bills 166 and 167 are a culmination of hard work from every end of the spectrum to help put an end to this crisis. … This legislation will put an end to pill mills and other illegal operations by creating a paper trail for every Schedule 2 through Schedule 5 controlled substance. A quick, three-second search gives health care professionals a complete outline of a patient’s controlled substance prescription history; allowing them to see if something doesn’t look right.”
Rep. Brann takes love of animals to legally protected level
Anybody who knows Rep. Tommy Brann — R-77th District, including the City of Wyoming and Byron Township — knows he often explains his stands on issues with stories about people in his community if not in his restaurant. In this, his first year working in Lansing, he says one of his “pet” efforts was the introduction of House Bill 4332 and House Bill 4333, which increases the penalties of animal cruelty.
“I call HB 4332 the ‘Howie Bill’ because it changes the definition of animals to reflect them as companions in law, which is how I saw my dog Howie,” Brann said to WKTV. But the bill really has more of a backstory than just the legislator’s dog.
State Rep. Tommy Brann (R-77th District)
“While clearing tables at my restaurant and I overheard at booth #99 customers talking about the best way to get revenge on someone was to kill their dog,” Brann said. “This had a major impact on me, because of how much pets mean to me. Animal abuse should not be tolerated, and the proper, humane treatment of animals is good for society. According to multiple studies, there is a correlation between animal abuse and domestic violence.”
According to Brann, HB 4332 and 4333 make it a crime to knowingly kill, torture, or mutilate a companion animal, knowingly administer poison to a companion animal, or threaten to do any of those things, with the intent to cause mental suffering or distress to a person or exert control over a person. The bill also increases penalties for some existing animal abuse crimes, and expands some existing crimes. The legislation keeps some penalties against animal abusers the same but adds three tiers to the sentencing guidelines, and there is no minimum sentencing guidelines.
The House passed HB 4332 (92-15) and 4333 (90-17) and are currently in the Senate Judiciary Committee for review, he said.
Rep. Johnson follows his beliefs with anti-abortion effort
Rep. Steve Johnson — R-72nd District, which includes the City of Kentwood — is also in his first year in Lansing. And while he has had a busy year and been active on many issues, he was Christian conservative before he was elected and will be whenever he finally leaves state government. So his support of right-to-life issues are strong.
State Rep. Steven Johnson, left, talks with WKTV Journal: In Focus host Ken Norris during a 2017 interview. (WKTV)
“The first piece of legislation I introduced that I’m very passionate about is HB 4221, which would prohibit the state from sending money to clinics in Michigan that provide elective abortion services,” Johnson said to WKTV. “Protecting the sanctity of life is a responsibility I take very seriously. Our budget in Michigan should not be used to fund abortion clinics, whether directly through state-generated revenue or indirectly with money we receive from the federal government.”
HB 4221 is currently awaiting a vote in the House Appropriations Committee, he said.
Sen. MacGregor works to support child care efforts
As chairman of the Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee, Sen. Peter MacGregor — R-28th District, which includes the City of Wyoming — has been working to reform the Child Care Fund for several years, most recently and specifically through Senate Bills 529 and 530.
State Sen. Peter MacGregor (R-28th District)
MacGregor has “worked closely with the Child Care Fund and the groups involved with taking care of this vulnerable population of children for over five years,” according to a statement from his office to WKTV. “What started out as a meeting to examine slow payments to counties and non-profit service providers from the state, eventually morphed into a two-year workgroup with the goal of changing the Child Care Fund payment system.”
Michigan’s Child Care Fund (CCF) provides financial reimbursement to counties for community-based programming and placement costs for youth with an annual budget of approximately $400 million. The workgroup included the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, county courts and other county representatives, and non-profit child placing agencies.
SB 529 and 530 amend the Social Welfare Act to improve the reimbursement process. The Child Care Fund pays for costs associated with foster care/child welfare and the juvenile justice services.
“Currently, it’s a convoluted system both in function and process where there is a 50-50 cost sharing between the state and counties,” according to the statement. “The goal of this legislation, which will transition to a state pays first system, is to make the system more efficient and to clarify the process relative to what is reimbursed.
“It’s been a delicate balance because separately each member of this group plays a different role in caring for the children and in how they use or oversee the fund. However, the communication, commitment to work on solutions and the time put into the proposed solution has really been amazing.”
SB 529 and 530 had overwhelming support in the Senate and are expected to gain a positive the state House of Representatives vote January 2018.
More than 20 years after its initial release, Pokémon fans, ranging from young children to seasoned adult players and entire families, have followed and celebrated one mantra: Gotta catch ‘em all!
Back by popular demand, you can catch Pokémon at the Grand Rapids Symphony this January, where Pikachu and the gang will appear on a 40-foot screen while the Grand Rapids Symphony plays the iconic music of the beloved video game.
Grand Rapids Pops presents Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions in a one-night spectacular on Saturday, Jan. 6, at 8 p.m. in DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW in Grand Rapids.
A concertgoer brings a special friend to the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Pokemon 2016 program. (Photo by Terry Johnston)
Two seasons ago, Grand Rapids Pops presented Pokémon to audiences keen to engage in sights and sounds of the endearing game. Now, with the advent of the location-based, augmented reality game PokémonGo in 2016, more people than ever are participating in Pokémon, capturing and training wild Pokémon to do battle and become Pokémon tournament champions.
As part of the Gerber Symphonic Boom series, this concert gives fans a different kind of immersive experience: a symphonic one.
The fuzzy tones and beeps of the game that originated on the hand-held Game Boy now give way to big-screen images enveloped by the surround sound of the Grand Rapids Symphony, performing musical arrangements timed to the visuals from recent and classic Pokémon video games.
Guest Conductor Chad Seiter, Michigan native who attended Grand Valley State University from 2001 to 2003, conducts the concert produced by Princeton Entertainment. Seiter, a prolific composer, arranger, and orchestrator for film, television, and video games has provided compositions and arrangements for some of Hollywood’s biggest projects, including Lost, Star Trek, and the Medal of Honor video game series.
Grand Rapids Symphony’s Pokemon 2016 program had many bringing special guests. (Terry Johnston)
In 2016 season, guest conductor Susie Benchasil Seiter conducted Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions to an enthusiastic Grand Rapids crowed decked out in Pokémon garb and Game Boys. The husband and wife team also collaborated to orchestrate and conduct The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddess.
Chad Seiter, originally from Okemos, now serves as the Associate Executive Producer at Princeton Entertainment, and was the lead arranger and music director for all of the Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions concerts.
Together with Benchasil Seiter, he transcribed the score of Pokémon’s original composer Junichi Masuda for symphonic audiences, while crafting additional music to enhance the concert-going experience.
“We started by listening to every single piece of music in all the Pokémon games,” Seiter said. “From there, we narrowed it down to our favorites that tell the story of Pokémon. Then we picked the pieces we thought would work best with a symphony orchestra.”
Their musical efforts have resulted in what iDigital Times called a “once in a lifetime event.”
Memorable musical highlights such as the Pokémon Red and Blue Overture, and the beautiful “Kiseki” from Pokémon X and Y, were handpicked by Masuda for Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions. The concert also features music from the Pokémon anime series and films.
Perhaps Game Music Online puts it best: there are few things as fun as celebrating beloved childhood memories played out in front devoted fans with the help of live, symphonic music.
Tickets
Tickets for Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions start at $18 and are available at the GRS ticket office, weekdays 9 am-5 pm at 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, (located across from the Calder Plaza), or by calling 616.454.9451 x 4. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum.)
Tickets are available at the DeVos Place box office, weekdays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. or on the day of the concert beginning two hours prior to the performance. Tickets also may be purchased online at GRSymphony.org.
Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet — or few — from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).
On Oct. 2, 2017, this totally adorable, 21-toed, intact male was unceremoniously dumped on the doorstep of our shelter, in a filthy travel carrier with a note attached. Evidently he was thought to be suffering from a urinary blockage and his owners couldn’t afford to have him treated, so instead of asking for help, they left him behind in the hopes that we would: 1) be able to care for him and 2) have the space to accommodate him once his medical issues were addressed.
As luck would have it, even though the unexpected addition of 2-1/2 year old Captain Kidd (Dr. Jen’s name for the handsome bloke who was born in the spring of 2015) put us up over our acceptable head count, he wasn’t afflicted by a urinary tract blockage but rather a non-infectious, inflammatory condition of his bladder.
Dr. Jen suspects that Kiddo was showing symptoms of discomfort and either straining to pee, producing bloody urine or going outside of the box. His issues have been simply remedied by neutering him, making sure his daily water intake is increased by feeding him canned food, and inexpensive medical management in the form of twice weekly anti-inflammatory tablets that he takes like a champ. And his litter box manners are something to behold, as he is a proud piddler and uses those massive mitts to cover his business when all is said and done.
Captain Kidd is not only drop-dead gorgeous but he is HILARIOUS! He is always in the thick of things, sticking his nose (and those toes) into anything and everything he isn’t supposed to! He is like our very own Energizer Bunny and he cracks us up with his playful antics and his zany, kitten-like behavior.
He gets along famously well with the other kitties at Crash’s but in all honesty he wouldn’t have to go into a multi-cat household; as long as he is the center of attention and has plenty to keep him occupied (think rambunctious children or perhaps even a boisterous canine companion), he is absolutely going to make a fabulously fun addition to any family that is fortunate enough to end up with him! And c’mon, those tootsies alone are simply stupendous!
Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!
Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.
West Michigan Lutheran and West Michigan Aviation Academy, shown in a WKTV featured game from last year, are among the small high school teams featured in the Drive Winter Classic. (WKTV)
The WKTV sports broadcast team is in the midst of taking a holiday break, returning with basketball Friday, Jan. 5, 2018, and hockey the next day. But there is some local high school action this week and next including several local basketball tournaments highlighted by a special small-high-school basketball tournament at a big-time venue — The Drive Winter Classic at The Deltaplex Arena in Grand Rapids.
“The tournament was put together to feature the talent in small school basketball,” Eric Frohriep, President of the All-Star Officials Association, said to WKTV. “The Grand Rapids Drive have been working with me to put this on. … The officials are donating their game fees to raise travel expenses to work the National Dwarf Games in Orlando, Fl., this summer.”
The bracket for the tournament will begin at The Deltaplex on Thursday, Jan. 4 at noon with a boys game between Grand River Preparatory High School and Calhoun Christian High School. That game will be followed, at 4 and 6 p.m., by another boys game featuring West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES) and Holt’s Martin Luther High School, and then by a girls game between WMAES and West Michigan Lutheran High School. (The Calhoun Christian girls team has a bye and will automatically advance to the tournament finals.)
The tournament will conclude Friday, Jan. 5, at The Deltaplex with the boys championship at 1:30 p.m. and the girls championship at 3:30 p.m.
All games are $5 to attend. and following the girls title game, fans can also Fans buy tickets for the Wisconsin Herd vs. Grand Rapids Drive game at 7 p.m.
The consolation game of the boys bracket will be played at West Michigan Lutheran, with the boys game at 6 p.m.
The girls team of Cedar Spring’s Creative Technologies Academy is also participating, but is not a MHSAA school so are not in the tournament portion of the Classic, Frohriep said. They are playing the Calhoun Christian girls at 2 p.m. at The Deltaplex on Jan. 4, and playing the loser of the girls opening round game at West Michigan Lutheran, also on Jan. 5.
For more information visit about The Deltaplex Arena visit deltaplex.com. For more information on the All-Star Officials Association visit their Facebook page.
Small high schools will also be the focus of the return of WKTV’s high school sports coverage in the new year.
WKTV’s sports crew will be on the road Jan. 5 with a doubleheader of boys and girls basketball, with Grand River Preparatory High School at Wyoming Potter’s House on the girls side, and Kelloggsville High School at The Potter’s House High School on the boys side. Then on Jan. 6, the crew will be at South Christian High School for a boys hockey game against Catholic Central High School.
Currently, each Tuesday game will be broadcast that night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 at 11 p.m. and repeat on Wednesday at 5 p.m. Each Friday game will be aired that night on WKTV 25 at 11 p.m. and repeat Saturday at 11 a.m. The games can also be seen on AT&T U-verse 99.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and features on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/
Local high school sports events this week are as follows:
Wednesday, Dec. 27
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Catholic Central – Baker Tourney
Wyoming @ Catholic Central – Baker Tourney
Kelloggsville @ Catholic Central – Baker Tourney
East Kentwood @ Catholic Central – Baker Tourney
Girls Basketball
Godwin Heights vs TBD @ Kelloggsville Holiday Tourney
Boys Basketball
TBD @ Wyoming Lee – Rebel Basketball Tourney
Thursday, Dec. 28
Girls Basketball
Godwin Heights vs TBD @ Kelloggsville Holiday Tourney
Boys Basketball
TBD @ Wyoming Lee – Rebel Basketball Tourney
East Kentwood @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer
Friday, Dec. 29
Boys Basketball
Godwin Heights vs FH Central @ Cornerstone University
The world is a complicated canvas of varying views, realities, and expectations. The next two installments in the Grand Rapids Ballet‘s innovative contemporary dance series, MOVEMEDIA, will explore and celebrate these beautiful differences.
Experience thought-provoking panel discussions and powerful community outreach bookended by complementary world-premiere works by some of today’s most important choreographers.
For tickets, visit grballet.com. Performances are in February and March 2018.
By Lisa Boss, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch
How does a dog, partially raised in a U.S. prison, save the life of a 17-yr. Army veteran? Well–it’s a great story!
Luis Carlos Montalvan is a veteran and former captain in the army, with two Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. But after two tours in Iraq, and the war wounds received there, he found his life unrecognizable. Traumatic Brain Injury and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, along with other severe injuries, had turned his life into agony, and it stayed that way for a long time.
Meanwhile, Tuesday was a pup in a litter of Golden Retrievers, destined to become a Service Dog for the severely disabled, and tweaked to help veterans with TBI and PTSD. The day they met changed both of their lives.
This is not so much a book about a dog, as how a life that is almost destroyed, can be painstakingly put back together. Montalvan’s writing is powerful and engaging, and Until Tuesday packs a wallop in its slim 252 pages.
Local First featured Uccello’s Hospitality Group back in October when we were gearing up for Fork Fest. Now that we’ve all had a chance to digest a bit, we thought it would be a perfect time to highlight the group’s newest additions, Mazzo Cucina D’Italia.
Mazzo opened last May with a Farm-to-Table menu and a team-centered focus. Using locally-sourced ingredients, the Mazzo staff works together to create menu items and special features. The results of which benefit not only the restaurant patrons, but also give them employees something to brag about.
“When they can see their ideas work and become successful they become more engaged and excited about their work and their future with Mazzo,” says Brittany Knoch, director of marketing.
The team came together first to decide the layout of the newly remodeled space. Knoch recalls the careful placement of the wood fired pizza oven, an essential part of Uccello’s legendary pizza.
“It was fully constructed when it shipped to us,” remembers Knoch. “We needed to use a crane just to lift it off the ground. With its mammoth size, we decided to knock out the front windows and the crane just dropped it right in.”
The windows have since been replaced and Mazzo has made a cozy home on Monroe Center. They’re excited for the Holiday season, which will make great use of their event space, Atrium at Mazzo, and even more excited to celebrate 2017 at New Year’s Eve at Mazzo.
A new report from researchers on charitable giving has found that the growing trend of collective giving is helping foster diversity in philanthropy.
Collective giving groups, which are often known as giving circles, have become an increasingly popular way for donors with diverse backgrounds to support charitable organizations or projects of mutual interest.
The study was conducted by the Collective Giving Research Group (CGRG), which includes Jason Franklin, the W.K. Kellogg Community Philanthropy chair at Grand Valley State University’s Johnson Center for Philanthropy.
The study focused on the current scope and scale of collective giving groups in order to understand their impact on donor giving and civic engagement.
Researchers found that giving circles have engaged at least 150,000 people in all 50 states and given as much as $1.29 billion since their inception. A majority of giving circles are created around a particular identity — including groups based on gender, race, age and religion. Giving circles have become more inclusive of income levels as the average and most frequent amount given by individual donors may be decreasing, while total dollars donated by giving circles are increasing.
“Giving circles are a powerful tool to democratize and diversify philanthropy, engage new donors and increase local giving,” Franklin said. “This research sheds critically needed new light on this popular form of collective giving. In a time when philanthropy is increasingly focused on the giving habits of billionaires, this research is an important reminder that everyday givers are coming together and pooling their resources to make a difference in their communities and for the issues they care about.”
Other key findings include:
• Collaborative giving is becoming more inclusive with donors from a wide range of income levels.
Giving circles have always provided avenues for those without substantial means to participate in significant giving, but this latest study suggests these groups now attract members from a wider range of income levels. Today, minimum dollar amounts required for participation range from less than $20 to $2 million, and the average donation amount was found to be $1,312 – compared to $2,809 in 2007.
• Identity-based groups make up 60 percent of giving circles and drive much of the growth in collaborative giving.
Giving circles attract many types of people, including those who may not typically engage in institutional philanthropy. Most groups are formed around a specific identity including groups based on gender, race, age and religion.
• Women dominate giving circle membership, making up 70 percent of all members. This collective model of giving is particularly popular among women. While men have a presence in 66 percent of giving circles, they are only the majority of members in 7.5 percent of groups.
• Giving circles are connected to each other and to philanthropy.
Networks of giving circles have emerged since 2007, with 25 networks now in existence. Today, 45 percent of identified giving circles participate in a network or alliance group. Community foundations, corporate partners and other outside donors view these collective giving groups as an effective way to give, with 52 percent of giving circles receiving additional funds or grants from these sources.
The study was conducted by the Collective Giving Research Group and was funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, via the Women’s Philanthropy Institute at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, and by the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. Researchers who co-authored the report with Franklin include Jessica Bearman from Bearman Consulting; Julie Carboni, Syracuse University; and Angela Eikenberry, University of Nebraska at Omaha.
With presents in tow for 26 North Godwin Elementary School kindergartners, Dutton Christian School sixth-graders helped the younger students make gift bags and cards for their parents.
Julianett Vazquez works on her reindeer gift bag
“This is the best day ever, because we are making presents for our parents,” said excited kindergartner Abul Anyar.
Dutton students Dahlea Abdoo, Chloe Koster, Lilly Harkema and Anna Haverdink were taking part in their school’s annual “Give This Christmas Away,” community-service project.
Each year students break into groups to visit North Godwin and many other locations, where they present gifts and spend time with others. An anonymous donor provides $100 for gifts for people at each site, a total of 28 locations this year, said Wendy Vostad, sister-in-law to North Godwin teacher Holly Vostad.
Along with the crafts, sixth-graders read stories to students.
Holly Vostad said her kindergartners love the extra attention from people who care about them. “They just light up,” she said.
Anna said she enjoyed her time at North Godwin. “I want to be a kindergarten teacher and I love to hang out with little kids,” she said. “I like Christmas a lot and it’s fun to help other kids have a good Christmas, too.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Dutton students arrive with gifts and helping hands each school year.
A new exhibit titled, “Celebration,” by local artist George Peebles, opens at the Leep Art Gallery on Jan. 3 at the Postma Center on the Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services campus in Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids artist George Peebles is an international artist within contemporary oil painting. He paints from the compelling force of emotion that continues to inspire his fascination of nature acquired through his devoted walk in faith. His deep and full-hearted feelings are forged from the vivid beauty of nature’s landscape that transcend onto the canvas with vivid colors.
Peebles uses an array of colors, even though he is red-green colorblind. He uses this as a gift to show his vision in a new perspective. Before he was aware of his colorblindness, he had already majored in printmaking, drawing, sculpture, painting and photography from Kendall College in 1986.
With every painting as individual as can be, he continues to create his masterpieces from memory.
“Every time you go outside and see the sky above the trees, it is different no matter how many times you go to the same place. Each spirited work of art created is as special as the earth itself.”
The Pine Rest Leep Art Gallery exhibit will be on display at the Postma Center located at 300 68th Street, SE, Grand Rapids, Mich., from Jan. 3 until April 3, 2018. The Leep Art Gallery is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and is free and open to the public. For more information, please call 616-222-4530 or go to www.pinerest.org/events.
1968 World Championship Series Detroit Tigers team member Mickey Stanley
By Mike Moll
WKTV Sports Director
WKTV will once again bring you highlights of the Stubby Overmire Benefit and Card Show with a program set to premiere on WKTV 25 Dec. 27 at 7 p.m. The program will run again Dec. 30 at 11 a.m. and Jan. 1 at 1:15 p.m.
Denny McLain, a member of the 1968 World Championship Detroit Tigers team
Stubby Overmire was born in Moline, Michigan, but went to high school at Wyoming Lee in the mid 1930s. Overmire went on to become a major league baseball player from 1943-1952 including seven seasons with the Detroit Tigers from 1943-1949. Overmire would have turned ninety-eight this year, but passed away at the early age of fifty-seven in 1977.
Each year for the last twelve, Wyoming Lee baseball head coach Ty Emelander, along with a host of many others, has put together the Stubby Overmire Sports Card Show and Auction, usually in November, as a fundraiser benefitting not just the baseball team and its facilities, but other athletic departments in the school as well. What is now a two-day event is called by many of the participating vendors, to be one of, if not the largest show in West Michigan.
Tom Matchick, another member of the 1968 World Championship Detroit Tigers team, with WKTV Sports Director Mike Moll
WKTV had cameraman/producer Gary Vande Velde, sound man Doug Hansen, and sports director Mike Moll attended the 12th Annual Stubby Overmire Sports Card Show and Auction, held on Nov. 18 and 19, to not only get entertaining video of the products available, but also to interview multiple vendors along with Stubby’s daughter Jane Overmire Keller, baseball coach Emelander, Lee football coach Tom DeGennaro, and a host of others. Highlighting the event were the guest appearances, autographs, and interviews with three members of the 1968 World Championship Detroit Tigers team. Also there was super utility man Tom Matchick along with all-star center fielder turned World Series shortstop Mickey Stanley, who made his second trip to the event, Denny McLain, who was baseball’s last 30-game winner having posted a 31-6 record in 1968 was there, just as he has been for every one of the twelve years. In this year’s WKTV special, you will hear humorous stories from all three players from not just the 1968 championship season but others as well.
Stubby Overmire’s daughter Jane Overmire Keller.
This year’s program was dedicated to Shirley Peuler. Shirley recently passed away unexpectedly and was the wife of 60 years to longtime WKTV volunteer Ray Peuler, who is called by many “the godfather of WKTV broadcasting.”
You aced the interview and your potential employer tells you the next step is to run a background check. The good news is that you are a top candidate if they are willing to invest in a background check. The bad news is, if you haven’t been completely honest about the information on your application or resume, they can find it and there will be no job offer.
A background check is a routine step in the hiring process for many companies. The most common background checks are reference checks, employment and education history and criminal background reports.
Reference Checks: Personal references can help employers understand both your skills for the job and your fit with the company. Choose your references wisely. While it may be tempting to ask your best friend or a family member, don’t. Choose someone who can speak to what it’s like to work with you in a positive manner. Be sure to ask potential references for their permission first. It will look better to potential employers if your references are expecting the call and know about the job you applied for.
Employment and Education History: Potential employers will verify your work history with past employers listed on your application or resume. They may even contact the educational institutions to verify your training or degrees. If you experienced a gap in employment or completed three years of college but didn’t graduate, be upfront about it. It is much better to clarify any issues ahead of time than for the employer to discover discrepancies.
Criminal Background Reports: Criminal background reports are most often done when the position requires working with children, money or sensitive data. Don’t worry; a speeding ticket shouldn’t cost you the job, unless you’re applying for a driving position. Employers are only supposed to rule out a potential candidate with a criminal record if there is a business reason for doing so. Tell the truth about any criminal history before the background check. Not only will you show the employer you are honest, you also have the opportunity to explain the situation and describe what you have learned.
Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.
I had no idea how much I would enjoy this book when I first picked it up. The cover is a black and white photo of a farmhouse and barn huddling under what appear to be storm clouds. Pretty simple at first glance, kind of how I thought the story would play out, but I was happily surprised.
The story begins with Toby, a widow in her early 70s who is hosting her sixteen-year-old granddaughter, Lila, at her Nebraska farm for the summer. Toby seems to be a typical caregiver kind of person because her older sister, Gertie, lives with her and Lila is pregnant and unwed. The reader quickly learns, however, that there is much more to these characters than meets the eye as the story twists deeper with each turn of the page.
Carter Joern narrates the novel in third person and alternates the point of view between Toby, Lila, Gertie and George. While this method of storytelling can sometimes be confusing, the author makes it very clear to the reader who is doing the telling as each voice changes by naming the character instead of numbering chapters.
One thing I really liked about this book is the pace set by each of the characters. At times I felt like I couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough, and other times it felt like I could savor the words on the page. The funny thing about this book was that none of the characters appeared to be remarkable in an obvious way, yet I felt very drawn into the telling of their lives, especially as more and more about each of them was revealed.
If you’re looking for something a little bit different, I suggest you give The Floor of the Sky a try.
Art teacher Amber Warren sees the difference in students who have had experience in art and those who haven’t. The latter have little faith in their artistic abilities, she said. “They are not confident.”
After offering art at reduced levels due to budget constraints for the past few years, the district has restored and is rebuilding programming so that every grade level will get some art instruction.
“I slowly have been building up their confidence,” Warren said of fifth-graders, who haven’t received much art education. After leading them through a basic, step-by-step project to make a Frankenstein picture, “That completely changed their perception on art,” she said.
Third-grader Alivia Walker shows her shape
She recently helped younger students lined up in the hallway at West Elementary build up their savvy with paintbrush, scissors, pencils and even a little DaVinci knowledge. To get their attention, Warren said, “Mona,” to which students answered in unison, “Lisa.” They made lines with their arms, airplane-style: vertical, horizontal, diagonal. She asked them to name textures. “Bumpy.” “Rough.” “Soft.” “Smooth,” they answered.
Students created name monsters, creatures that revealed themselves in the outline of their own names, written in crazy-style letters on paper and cut out. “Mine is like a brain with legs,” said third-grader Zachary VanderMeer.
Students enjoy their time in class so much that she said they work hard to earn art passes to use in Warren’s classroom during recess.
“I’ve learned about warm and cool colors,” said third-grader Kaitlyn Boroff. Added third-grader Pilar Carrillo: “I learned how to make a big flower.”
New art teachers also include Lynette Robinson at Southeast Elementary, and Jake Gless at Kelloggsville Middle School. Krista Bodo heads the high school department, and hosted the district’s first art show last year.
Drawing Out Creativity
Rebuilding the art program is an important way to give children enriching opportunities and creative outlets, said Assistant Superintendent Tammy Savage. Kelloggsville staff and administration members are extensively researching educating students in poverty. About 80 percent of students in the district are economically disadvantaged. “Our philosophy is that all students need opportunities in all areas,” she said. “Every experience they have helps them build background knowledge.”
Third-grader Zachary VanderMeer holds up his name monster cut-out
Warren sees well-rounded instruction as important for future success. She talks to her students about the many careers available in art. “Nowadays, the way society is going creative-based, it teaches them to have those 21st century skills.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
On Monday, Dec. 18, at approximately 5:40 p.m. the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the report of a Hit and Run Personal Injury Crash at 54th and South Division Avenue. The Department has very limited information in regards to the crash. What is known at this time is that a 40-year-old female from Kentwood was walking east crossing South Division Avenue on the south side of 54th Street. The female pedestrian had the right of way at the light and a white vehicle was turning south bound onto Division struck her. The pedestrian was knocked to the ground and she believes that the vehicle continued south bound on Division Avenue. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital with injuries.
According to department officials, this is the only information that officers have on the striking vehicle or any other circumstances surrounding this incident. The department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect vehicle and / or witnesses to please come forward with any information.
Wyoming Public Safety personnel continue with its investigation and ask the public’s assistance for information that may lead to the identification of the suspect/vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
By Matthew Makowski, Grand Valley State University
In fall 2016, Maya Grant traveled to India on a study abroad scholarship from the GVSU Padnos International Center. Grant, a sociology major, was led to India by a need to escape and explore. She studied at Christ University in Bengaluru, volunteered at a local non-profit and captured her experiences and interactions through photography. On the weekends, Grant joined a group of expats called the Bangalore Wanderlusters, and traveled throughout Karnataka and its neighboring states. This exhibition includes more than 25 photographs documenting her experiences studying abroad, and exploring the landscape and people of India.
What: ‘Traveling with the Bangalore Wanderlusters: Reflections on a Semester in India by Maya Grant’
When: Exhibition on display through March 2
Where: Blue Wall Gallery (Building B), DeVos Center, Pew Grand Rapids Campus
While at the 2017 Wyoming Gives Back holiday event and the 2017 Kentwood Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, WKTV was able to capture several holiday greetings from officials and residents. Below are just some of those sending out their holiday wishes to West Michigan. To see all of the Wyoming holiday greetings, click here. To see the Kentwood holiday greetings, click here for the ones from the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and here for the ones from the Kentwood City Commission.
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley
Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll
State Rep. Tommy Brann
Kentwood City Commissioner Betsy Artz
Wyoming Mayor Pro-Tem Sam Bolt
Kentwood City Commissioner at Large Richard Clanton
Wyoming City Council member Rob Postema
Kentwood Second Ward City Commissioner Tom McKelevy
Kentwood’s Railtown Brewing Company — OK, actually Dutton’s Railtown — will be invading downtown Grand Rapids Ionia Avenue next week when several holiday variations of its Good Mooed milk stout are featured at a Tap Take Over at the Craft Beer Cellar.
According to Facebook posts by both brewer and tapper, the Railtown Good Mooed Tap Take Over will take place Thursday, Dec, 28, from 6-10 p.m. The Craft Beer Cellar is located at 404 Ionia Ave. SW.
Plan is, at this point, to have four versions of Railtown’s milk stout on tap. In addition to its Good Mooed (a true-to-style milk stout), also available will be Festive Mooed (featuring coffee, cinnamon and nutmeg), Best Mooed Ever (with coconut, almond and chocolate — think Almond Joy), and Viscous Mooed, which is described as “A completely new and experimental brew for Railtown. The base remains true to the Good Mooed brand however, it was double mashed leading to an ABV of 10.3 percent. They also added a generous amount of bittersweet cocoa. The resulting brew is thick, rich, and chocolaty with a nice balance between sweet and bitter.”
Oh ya, there will also be a couple other non-mooed kegs from Railtown on tap for those not into being mooed.
Also, remember there is free street parking at downtown parking meters after 5 p.m. weekdays. For more information visit the Facebook pages of either.
Greenville’s 57 Brew Pub and microbrewery sold, taps and all
After five years in business, and plenty of great beers brewed and backyard concerts held, the 57 Brew Pub & Bistro has been sold to investment group HMV Holdings, according to a press release by Calder Capital.
HMV Holdings is a partnership between Andy Hurst, Jason Mahar, and Marc Vander Velde, who all have strong ties to the Greenville area and are excited to share their brewpub vision with the community, Hurst told WKTV. Planned changes include a tap expansion that will allow them to continue to brew and serve their own beer while also offering other craft beers from around the state and country.
Founded in 2012 — and known to locals as simply “57 Brew Pub” — the pub is a family-owned, award-winning microbrewery and restaurant, according to the release. The business was designed and built from the ground up as a brewery and brew pub, and was founded and run by Greenville locals, Bob and Dottie Olsen. They decided to sell in order to retire to a warmer climate, and say they are pleased that the brewery will continue to be operated by locals.
For more information on 57 Brew Pub visit 57brewpub.com .
GRPM Beer Explorers goes all beer and doughnuts
Founders Brewing Company, Robinette’s and the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) will join forces for the next museum Beer Explorers program on Jan. 11, 2018, as Beer & Doughnuts will offer a twist on a Founders beer tasting.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Beer Explorers program will pair Founders beer with Robinette’s doughnuts. (Supplied)
According to supplied information, this class pairs Founders beer with Robinette’s doughnuts, allowing participants to “explore their sense of taste and what combinations appeal to individual palates.”
The class begins at 6:30 p.m. and will be held on the 1st floor of the GRPM. Admission to each class includes general admission to the museum as well as four beer and doughnut samples. A cash bar will also be available.
Spoiler alert: Beer Explorers will continue on Feb. 8 with Brewery Vivant and the Pilot Malt House to learn all about how malts influence the different beers. They had me at Vivant …
Tickets are $22 for non-museum members and participants must be age 21 or older. Tickets can be purchased at grpm.org.
By Matthew Makowski, Grand Valley State University
From 1940-1960, the Australian government forced Aboriginal groups off their lands and into organized communities of the Central Desert region and along the northern coast. Papunya, located about 150 miles northwest of Alice Springs, was the final community established to collect these displaced groups, and where the contemporary Australian Aboriginal art movement began.
This exhibition is drawn out of a recent gift of Australian Aboriginal paintings to Grand Valley State University, created by artists from Papunya and the surrounding region. It features artwork that provides insight into Aboriginal life, retellings of important ancient stories and symbols, and the sacred sites of this vast and arid landscape.
What:‘Drawn from the Desert: Australian Aboriginal Paintings from the Central and Western Deserts’
When: Exhibition on display through March 2
Where: Kirkhof Center Gallery (main floor), Allendale Campus
As the holiday season approaches, the Kent County Dispatch Authority is encouraging Kent County residents to take the time to speak with loved ones about the benefits and importance of signing up for Smart911™.
A free service provided by KCDA, Smart911 lets users create a private and secure safety profile that 911 will reference during an emergency. This information may include photos, detailed medical information, cell phone numbers, vehicle descriptions, pet information and other data that can be critical during an emergency situation, and enables faster and more effective emergency response by law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services.
“Smart911 helps responders use the minutes that count during an urgent situation for a better, faster response,” said Wyoming City Manger Curtis Holt, who serves as the chair of the Kent County Dispatch Authority. “This service is now free to all Kent County residents and has proven to save lives nationally. Taking a few minutes to get you and your family signed up now might save your lives in an emergency later.”
Connected to a mobile phone number, Smart911 allows residents to link both home and work addresses, which can then be passed on to responders in the field for a more detailed, rapid response. All information is optional, and each user has the ability to choose what is included.
Since Smart911 was introduced, emergency dispatchers have credited it with several “Smart Saves.” One incident earlier this year resulted in a successful intervention for an 18-year-old, who called 911 saying she had drunk alcohol and taken pills and was unable to move. The dispatcher was able to reach her through her Smart911 profile, reaching out to an aunt who was able to get her to the emergency room.
“I can’t say it enough: The benefits of signing up for this service are immense,” Holt said. “When you use your mobile phone to call 911, an address is not displayed to the call taker, slowing down the emergency response. In so many emergency situations, minutes and seconds matter, and the additional information in a safety profile allows help to get there faster – and arrive better prepared.”
Smart911 is currently available in 40 states and more than 1,500 municipalities across the country. The service has been credited with positively impacting emergency outcomes, including prevention of several life-threatening incidents in which the discretion of conversations with 911 were critical to the outcomes. After making initial contact with 911 dispatchers via phone call, discrete details in these situations were able to be confirmed by text message via Smart911 after the call.
This service was made available to Kent County residents for the first time earlier this year, but as the holiday’s approach, KCDA is hoping residents will take the time to have conversations about Smart911 with loved ones.
“This holiday season, what better gift than giving your family additional peace of mind in case of an emergency?” Holt said. “I certainly can’t think of one.”
Kent County residents are encouraged to create their safety profile with Smart911 at www.smart911.com to ensure their information is available to 911. It takes approximately 10 minutes to complete the secure online form that will be stored in the confidential Smart911 database. All information is kept private and protected and is only available to 911.
About Kent County Dispatch Authority
The Kent County Dispatch Authority was formed in 2007 to address issues that related to 911 services in the County. KCDA develops policies and procedures for administering 911, creates the annual operating and capital budget, establishes goals and objectives through a strategic plan for future technological or operational enhancements, distributes 911 surcharge funds and other initiatives to maximize efficiency of 911 services. For more information, visit www.kent911.org
About Smart911
Currently available in 40 states and more than 1,500 municipalities, Smart911 allows citizens to create a free Safety Profile online for their household that includes information they want 911 and response teams to have during an emergency, such as their address, medical conditions, pets, etc. When an emergency call is made, a citizen’s Safety Profile is automatically displayed to the 911 call-taker. Last year, 25 million 911 calls were assisted by Safety Profiles. All information is kept private and secure, only appearing when the associated number calls 911.
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.
Candy — American Staffordshire Terrier Mix
I am a happy and loving 6-year-old dog! I have a warm and outgoing personality, and I am eager to learn and love treats. I’m an active dog who would do best in home that has the time to play with me and take me for walks and would do best with older children. If I sound like a good fit for you, please come meet me at Humane Society of West Michigan!
More about Candy:
Animal ID: 30414031
Breed: Terrier, American Staffordshire/ Mix
Age: 6 years
Gender: Female
Size: Medium
Color: Tan/White
Spayed
Lovely Iris
Iris — Female Domestic Short Hair
I am a 7-year-old sweet and lovable cat. I love napping, relaxing, and getting belly rubs. I would do best in a routine and relaxed environment that would allow me time to adjust. Please come meet me at Humane Society of West Michigan!
More about Iris:
Animal ID: 30414031
Breed: Terrier, American Staffordshire/ Mix
Age: 6 years
Gender: Female
Size: Medium
Color: Tan/White
Spayed
Humane Society of West Michigan is open Tuesday-Friday 12pm-7pm and Saturday-Sunday 11am-4pm.
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.
English teacher Katie Sluiter’s Wyoming Junior High classroom is a testament to the power of words, in the books eighth-graders eagerly grab from her library and in the writing she did to get those 1,000 popular works onto her shelves.
Through blogging and writing for an educational website, Sluiter connects with fellow teachers worldwide. Five years ago, feeling inspired after attending a workshop led by renowned educator Penny Kittle, she posted to her blog, Sluiter Nation, about a transformation she envisioned.
Maddy Roosa has learned to like reading because she has many books to choose from.
“I have this new dream that I want to change my classroom from making kids read books that either they don’t care about, they don’t relate to or they can’t even read because they are below grade level, into a place where kids are reading voraciously,” she wrote.
Sluiter created an Amazon Wish List of popular Young Adult books so people could donate to her classroom. She was intent on morphing her library, which contained titles like “Moby Dick” (“No kid is going to check out ‘Moby Dick'”), into a sought-after collection of titles and genres.
“Books started coming in like crazy from all over the world,” Sluiter said. “I went from 104 lame books to a few hundred higher-interest books in a matter of months.”
It opened up a new world of reading to her students — and a new world of teaching to Sluiter.
“Creating the classroom library is definitely the best thing I’ve ever done as a teacher. It definitely brings joy to my students and obviously to me,” said the 15-year Wyoming Public Schools educator.
As Sluiter’s classroom library grew by way of continued donations, a grant and Sluiter’s second job writing for The Educator’s Room, she enhanced her teaching to include strategies students respond to with enthusiasm.
They are given ample time to read books of their choice in class; they form book clubs; they listen to “Tuesdaaaay…Book Talks!,” during which Sluiter introduces popular new books with quick summaries. Her students have even gone Book Speed Dating, checking out an array of books quickly, circling yes, no or maybe, junior high-style, on paper, to decide which books are perfect matches.
Those matches are sometimes just what a student needs, she said. She’s seen students find books they can relate to because they are finally reading about their culture or shared experiences, or they learn about people different from them and developing new perspectives.
Sluiter recently brought in a brand new stack of 60 books, sorted according to genre. After class, students lined up to check them out, eager to get their hands on new fantasies, historical fiction, teen dramas and thrillers.
Eighth-grader Maddy Roosa checked out “Speak,” by Laurie Halse Anderson. “I’m a lot more interest in reading now,” Maddy said. “I usually don’t like books, but the Tuesday Book Talks make them more interesting.” “A Child Called ‘It’,” by Dave Pelzer, is her favorite read so far this year.
Sluiter’s overarching mission is to help students succeed in school and life, and to reach even reluctant readers, like Maddy.
“If we value reading we need to give our kids time to read,” Sluiter said. “All the research says that reading and becoming better readers is the key to success in high school, college, career.
“The more you read and the better reader you are is really the measure of where you are going to go.”
To help students at every level including special education, Sluiter has graphic novels and audiobooks for listening to while reading.
A Buffet of Choices
Once Sluiter saw the effect of choice reading on her classroom, she realized an even larger potential. “I started meshing the idea of choice and writing with choice in reading. What if my classroom was a big choice fest?”
Since then, students have been given freedom to choose writing topics while still meeting eighth-grade English standards.
Student Sadie Duron said she loves the freedom, while knowing “we still learn what we need to learn.”
“I really love it because not everybody likes the same topics,” Sadie said. “Everybody gets to choose what they want to read and the topic. I feel like I’ve been writing more. After I read a good book I want to write about it.”
Wyoming Junior High teachers say Sluiter’s enthusiasm and creativity have caught on.
“Katie Sluiter creates such excitement about books and reading that I’ve had a student of mine ask to go check out a book she had in her classroom library,” said eighth-grade English teacher Shantel VanderGalien. “She is a wonderful teaching partner and I love to brainstorm with her about creative ideas we can incorporate into our curriculum.”
Eighth-grade teacher Melissa Janz said Sluiter connects with students who have great difficulty reading and writing.
“She does such a great job with developing a love of reading even with our most reluctant readers,” Janz said. “She is always ready to learn and try various reading strategies in the classroom that would possibly reach the students who might not ‘get it’ the traditional way.”
A sampling of books in Katie Sluiter’s classroom
Reading Inspires Writing
Sluiter has seen stronger readers become stronger writers, and she sees the impact of sharing her own hopes, dreams and vulnerabilities in writing. When she started blogging in 2007, she soon identified as a “mom blogger.” Now a mother of three, she wrote about parenting issues and personal struggles, including pregnancy loss and postpartum depression.
Over the years, she stretched her focus to include education in writing for fellow teachers.
“I started writing quite a bit more openly about myself, and realized my process for writing was very similar to what I could be teaching my students. That’s about when I started writing along with my students and showing them a little more of my vulnerable side as a writer. It got much better writing out of them.”
She also was inspired to write about her craft and how she works to meet the needs of her students. “I really enjoyed writing about my job, what I do here, and what goes on in my classroom — the stuff that fills my heart and why I love education even though it’s hard.”
A full heart and full bookshelves: Sluiter shares both with her students every day, proving again and again that the power of words can help fill and refill both.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
The irony of being stalked by an remorseless killer is never far from Carlo’s mind, as he writes his last book, which is the one we are reading. Diagnosed with ALS in 2005, he became even more driven to finish his projects before his “deadline”, and the result is that we are able to learn a little about life from a courageous man.
A true-crime writer for nearly 30 years, Carlo specialized in contract and serial killers. In this memoir he explains how his life intersected and diverged with Mafia figures at an early age. An inappropriate sexual relationship with a young female teacher led to the revelation that he was dyslexic. She helped him to read and it changed his life so much that he realized he wanted to be a writer. Later, he would be drawn to subjects growing out of his early life in Brooklyn. Events, good and bad, shaped his journey, including a chilling series of encounters with a pedophile that almost ended his life.
Carlo ultimately saw his mission in unearthing and exposing the root and branch of the sociopathic personality, to understand them and to warn others. The juxtaposition of the relentless disease process of ALS, and the “monsters” of Carlo’s acquaintance is thought provoking. Because who is not fascinated by evil? As long as humanity has struggled to understand it’s secrets, so it eludes us.
Imagine taking a complicated theory such as the Higgs boson and creating a 30-minute film that not only provides an explanation of the theory and its importance for all ages to understand but developing a component that children with autism would also enjoy.
That is exactly what the Grand Rapids Public Museum did with its recently released original production “Subatomic,” now showing at the museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium.
“The show focuses on arguably the most significant scientific discovery in the last 50-75 years,” said Grand Rapids Public Museum President and CEO Dale Robertson. “We tend to think about science having great discoveries happening a long time ago: Newton’s theory of gravity in 1676, Einstein’s theory of relativity in 1915.”
Museum visitors check out the pinball-style interactive exhibit demonstrates how the Higgs boson was discovered.
British theoretical physicist Peter Higgs proposed a theory in 1964 that stated that a field exists joining everything and giving it mass. For about the next 50 years, the scientific community set about to prove this theory with more than 10,000 scientists around the world collaborating. In 2012, the largest machine in the world, a Large Hadron Collider, discovered the Higgs boson. It also has been nicknamed “the God particle” because it’s said to be what caused the “Big Bang Theory” that created the universe many years ago but more importantly to the scientific community, it gives validity to The Standard Model of Physics, the authoritative theory for particle physics. There is also hope that the Higgs boson will help shed light on other mysteries such as dark matter.
“It is a very difficult concept but we are trying to do now particularly with the passage of our millage and promise to the community is to really bring significant discoveries and significance happenings to the world right here locally to Grand Rapids and doing it in a partnership way,” Robertson said.
And just like international collaboration that took place to discover the Higgs boson, there a large collaboration with groups like Hope Network and Ferris State University’s Kendall College of Art and Design along with a couple internationally know scientists with local ties.
“So this really is the biggest of big sciences but here is what is great about it two West Michigan natives were among the scientists who collaborated worldwide to discover the Higgs boson,” Roberton said, adding that Dr Jacob Bourjaily, a theoretical physicist at the Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen and a graduate of Forest Hills and Dr. Brian Winer, chair and professor of physics at Ohio State University and a graduate of Ottawa Hills High School, participated in the project.
“Both have shared with us right up front that they have very fond memories of coming on school tours [to the Public Museum], with their parents and so forth on weekends to see planet shows,” Robertson said. “It was inspiring to them as a child growing up and lead to a path that they chose for their career.
“We know that we touch lives here at the museum and we know that we touch lives here at the planetarium, which is exactly what it exists to do,” Robertson said.
Visitors look at how mass is created.
Touching lives is part of the reason why Museum officials purposefully focused on those with autism developing a program that would be particularly appealing to the autism population from the theory of universal design learning and improving the experience for everybody, Robertson said. “Subatomic” has three parts with a live presentation with the planetarium presenter right in the middle of the room talking to the audience. Then there is the full dome presentation with the audience exiting out to the hands on activities focused on specific principles.
“We learned through our Hope Network partnership that with certain principles, it begins the gears turning and then to immediately go into something that has multi-sensory, active learning engagement helps make that visceral, cerebral connection that will lead into increased learning,” Robertson said about offering the hands on portion after the film’s showing. Activities include a pinball-style particle collider that allows guests to try their hand at having two balls shoot through a wire frame and collide.
“I have been absolutely amazed with the groups here and the partnerships that takes something that is very complex and make it very accessible and is one of those great things that has happened in our life time,” “Robertson said. “Being able to take it in and understand and beginning to relate to it…I have seen it three to four times, and continue to want to comeback because I find it that inspiring.”
“Subatomic” is part of the Chaffee Planetarium’s regular schedule. Planetarium shows are $4 with regular admission and $5 for planetarium only. Museum members receive free admission to planetarium shows. The program meets middle school curriculum as it does explore such scientific concepts as gradational waves and atoms and the program can be reserved for school groups and field trips. For more information, visit www.grpm.org.
What do you do when your running for a seat on the Kentwood City Commission and then your opponent drops out? Tom McKelvey, who in November won the 2nd Ward position, tells WKTV Journal: In Focus host Ken Norris what he did — still get out and meet people, and try to get up to speed on city matters as quickly as possible.
Also on the latest episode of In Focus, Madeline Schaab, a project specialist for local non-profit Disability Advocates of Kent County, discusses what her group does to promote accessible and welcoming communities, and what the public can do — including just keeping snow off the sidewalk in front of your house.
The episode will debut Tuesday, Dec. 19 , at 6:30 p.m., and will again air on Thursday, and again next week on the same days and times on WKTV channels but all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVVideos.
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.
By Matthew Makowski, Grand Valley State University
Tony Fitzpatrick was born in 1958, and raised in and around Chicago as a member of a large middle-class Irish Catholic family. His father worked as a burial vault salesman, and often took Tony along to appointments around the city when he was suspended from school. Drawing was a pervasive part of his life, and he’d sketch anything that caught his eye. He graduated from Montini Catholic High School in 1977, untrained in the arts. Over the years, Fitzpatrick spent time as boxer, bartender, actor, waiter and tattoo artist. These experiences, coupled with an insatiable appetite for drawing, had a profound effect on his work.
This exhibition features 21 etchings by the artist. They are drawn out of a recent gift to Grand Valley State University’s permanent art collection of more than 120 works on paper. Filled with strange and magical beasts, they draw on his childhood imagination, Catholic upbringing and immersive experience in street culture.
What: ‘Strange & Magical Beasts: Etchings by Tony Fitzpatrick’
When: Exhibit on display through March 2
Where: West Wall Gallery, L. V. Eberhard Center, Pew Grand Rapids Campus
One must think like a big cat when designing a tiger habitat. Where do you like to sleep and play? What keeps you safe? What keeps people safe while watching you? What keeps zookeepers safe in feeding you?
Kentwood’s Discovery Elementary School students in the district’s gifted and talented program, PEAKS, considered the needs of lions and tigers and bears and other zoo animals recently while designing 3-D model exhibits for the new STEM class, Exhibit Design, a John Ball Zoo education program.
“You guys are going to be engineers,” said lead instructor Megan Burkhart, while passing out design kits with animal figurines, miniature structures and habitat pieces. The fourth-graders, working in groups, considered those who would be affected by their designs.
“We need to take into consideration the feelings of the keeper, the animals and the visitors,” student Madison Duffey said.
From left, Owen van der Veen, M.J. Smith and Calvin Ranger work on putting components of a good habitat together
New Tools to View Zoo
Burkhart said the class gives them new perspectives on what goes into design that meets the needs of all users. “When students come to the zoo and they are looking at exhibits, they don’t ultimately think about what went into the exhibit,” she said. “I love that it gives them the opportunity to engineer things themselves. As they go through the zoo after they’ve done all of this, it gives them a new appreciation and insights into all of the new exhibits.”
“Another goal is to show them the variety of jobs at the zoo. A lot of kids think the only job at the zoo is zoo-keeping, but there is a lot more we have here to offer; things they can ultimately do with their future,” Burkhart said
Fourth-grade science standards include animal adaptations, said teacher Joe Westra. The class, which involves biology and engineering, ties in well with new Michigan Science Standards. “Everything about this is consistent with best practice in science education,” he said.
Students said making a zoo habitat is harder than first appears.
Alexander Grzesiak and Madison Duffey create a bear exhibit
“If takes a long time and a lot of hard work, and you can’t do it by yourself,” said Reign Baker about coming up with a design. “If the animals don’t have what they need, they cannot survive.”
The zoo education program also offers the new STEM course, Penguineering, which challenges students to consider ideal habitats through the eyes of a Magellanic penguin and to create a nesting habitat.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
The WKTV sports broadcast schedule will give you three games over two nights as our coverage truck makes visits to East Kentwood and West Michigan Aviation this week.
Tuesday night the truck and crew will be heading to East Kentwood for a boys basketball game against East Grand Rapids. Game time is 7 p.m. Friday night, the crew will be at West Michigan Aviation, where both the girls and boys teams will be hosting Wyoming Lee. The crew will then take the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day off before returning in the new year.
Currently, each Tuesday game will be broadcast that night on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 at 11 p.m. and repeat on Wednesday at 5 p.m. Each Friday game will be aired that night on WKTV 25 at 11 p.m. and repeat Saturday at 11 a.m. The games can also be seen on AT&T U-verse 99.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and features on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/
Local high school sports events this week are as follows:
Monday, Dec. 18
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Christian @ Wyoming
Girls Cheer
East Kentwood @ Grandville
Tuesday, Dec. 19
Boys Bowling
Wellsprings Prep @ Godwin Heights
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Boys Basketball
Wyoming Lee @ Tri-Unity Christian
South Christian @ Calvin Christian
East Grand Rapids @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Game
West Michigan Lutheran @ Barry County Christian
Grand River Prep @ West Michigan Aviation
Girls Basketball
Calvin Christian @ South Christian
East Kentwood @ East Grand Rapids
Grace Christian @ Zion Christian
West Michigan Lutheran @ Barry County Christian
Manistee Catholic Central 2 tri-Unity Christian
Wednesday, Dec. 20
Girls Cheer
Godwin Heights @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Wyoming @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Boys Basketball
Catholic Central @ Godwin Heights
Boys Wrestling
Wyoming Lee @ Comstock Park
Wyoming @ Holland
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Thursday, Dec. 21
Boys/Girls Bowling
Wyoming @ Allendale
Friday, Dec. 22
Boys Basketball
Wyoming Lee @ West Michigan Aviation – WKTV Featured Game
Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills
Cedar Springs @ Kelloggsville
Lansing Christian @ Potter’s House
Girls Basketball
Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills
Lansing Christian @ Potter’s House
Wyoming Lee @ West Michigan Aviation – WKTV Featured Game
Boys Hockey
East Kentwood @ Catholic Central
Saturday, Dec. 23
Boys Wrestling
Kelloggsville @ Martin
Monday, Dec. 25
CHRISTMAS DAY
Tuesday, Dec. 26
Boys Basketball
Godwin Heights vs Covenant Christian @ Cornerstone University
Attorney Raquel Salas understands the ins and outs of immigration and cultural adaptation, having moved to the U.S. over a decade ago from her native Dominican Republic. She uses that lived experience as a newcomer along with her native Spanish language skills to counsel immigrants in the intricacies of American criminal law. She joins us to talk about culture, belonging, and the myths that surround the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, DACA for short.
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich. District 2) often disagree on topics, sometimes through intermediaries such as occurs at the monthly local Government Matters meetings. So it is no surprise that the two local federal government leaders take very different views on the Federal Communications Commission’s vote last week to abolish so-called “net neutrality” rule.
The Federal Communications Commission voted Dec. 14, to repeal rules it had established in 2015 under President Barrack Obama’s tenure which regulated broadband businesses, including cable television providers, that connect consumers to the internet.
The agency scrapped net neutrality regulations that prohibited broadband providers from blocking websites or charging for higher-quality service or certain content. The federal government will also no longer regulate high-speed internet delivery as if it were a utility, like phone services.
Peters, in supplied material, blasted the decision; Huizenga supported the FCC action. Couriousily, however, both seem to say the final decision should rest with federally elected officials.
“Today’s FCC vote to scrap net neutrality protections is an anti-consumer decision that disadvantages small businesses and everyday internet users,” Peters said in a statement issued Dec. 14. “This action could usher in a two-tiered internet, where large corporations that can pay for a fast lane have the power to slow down or block content, and consumers and small businesses are relegated to the slow lane.”
But Huizenga, during an interview on West Michigan’s WHTC radio just prior to the FCC action, said “The Obama Administration literally went back to 1930s utility law that was set up to regulate Ma Bell, which doesn’t even exist, and then layer that onto the internet.
“That is not how we got a dynamic internet, how we got a free and open internet. So this is completely the wrong direction to go. … (with) the FCC is regulating it, it is the wrong place to be doing this. It previously had been under the Federal Trade Commission, and the Obama Administration wanted to put the government in control of the internet. That, to me, seems to be a mistake.”
Both Peters and Huizenga say they believe their opposing point-of-view is based on what is best for a “free and open internet”.
A Dec. 15 statement to WKTV from the Brian Patrick, Huizenga’s communication director, said: “It was President Bill Clinton working with a Republican congress that created a light touch regulatory structure for the internet which led to the greatest engine of innovation and commerce the world has ever seen. Congressman Huizenga believes the entire internet ecosystem, including tech companies, edge providers, and ISPs, should be held to the same standards when it comes to ensuring a free and open internet for consumers.”
Peters sees a free and open internet differently.
“We live in an increasingly interconnected world where a free and open internet has never been more important to Michigan’s economic success. Michigan families and small businesses rely on net neutrality protections to ensure they can achieve their goals — whether it’s reaching customers in new markets, accessing educational opportunities or connecting with loved ones around the globe. Net neutrality levels the playing field, and without these protections, consumers and entrepreneurs will face unnecessary hurdles to the economic opportunities the internet provides.”
However, both Peters and Huizenga also say the issue should be decided by federal action if not new legislation.
“In response to today’s decision, Senator Peters joined his colleagues in announcing a plan to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that would reverse today’s FCC action and restore the agency’s 2015 net neutrality rules,” the statement from Peters’ office stated. “CRA resolutions allow Congress to overturn regulatory actions at federal agencies with a simple majority vote in both chambers.”
While Huizenga said, also from the WHTC interview, “I believe Congress does need to be involved in this. I have been and will continue to be so, as an advocate for making sure we have a free and open internet.”
After students spent last school year building a house through the East Kentwood High School residential construction class, Principal Omar Bakri bought it.
Senior John Walma turns a wheel to lift drywall
“I wasn’t planning on it,” said Bakri. “I stopped by the worksite to support the students and teachers. When I walked into the house, my jaw dropped. I fell in love with it right away.”
Bakri and his wife, Ayrica, a third-grade teacher at Explorer Elementary, also in Kentwood Public Schools, sold their Grand Rapids house and moved into the stately home in the Crystal Springs neighborhood with their children, Kian, a fourth-grader and Isaac, 20, in June.
Bakri loves the detail in the five-bedroom ranch, which boasts an open floor plan, brick fireplace, wood floors, cobblestone-bordered tile and 9-foot ceilings. “Everything seems solid, top to bottom,” he said.
Senior Corbin Butterly hoists up the drywall
Student-Built, Kentwood-Connected
Bakri’s house is among about 25 in the district built by students – with help from professionals – from the ground up. The class, taught for 13 years by Kyle Croskey, has been transforming teenagers into tradespersons since the mid-’80s, providing an invaluable experience. The program sustains itself because the sale of each house provides funding for the next. The district currently owns eight adjacent Crystal Springs lots for development.
Students gain experience in carpentry, windows and drywall installation, painting and assisting with electrics and plumbing. They install outlets, light switches and sinks, cut and polish granite countertops. They add their own design ideas and tweak things as they see fit.
Currently, 34 students are building a 2,700 square-foot, five-bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom house, also in Crystal Springs. Students are already putting their own signature on it, modifying the original floor plan to include a wet bar in the basement, an expanded walk-in closet and a fancy, walk-in shower.
Senior Bryce Hansen sits atop a ladder in a new house students are building
Students earn a math credit for the class, and it attracts a diverse group of teens. More than half enter construction or a skilled trade as a career or in a post-secondary program, Croskey said. Others want to learn to “do-it-yourself” at home.
“It’s kind of like a Montessori approach,” said Croskey, who sees students discover aptitudes for different areas of construction, electrics, interior design. “I tell the students, find something you’re good at and get really good at it and the rest of it will come.”
It’s also about having a true sense of what occupations in construction entail. “We want you to have experience and decide if this is for you or not,” Croskey said.
It was the right fit for assistant construction teacher Cam Morris, a 2014 East Kentwood graduate, who took the class his senior year.
“The first time I worked with my hands was in this class,” Morris said. “I didn’t know I wanted to work with my hands for the rest of my life. It 100 percent changed my life and career path.”
A Strong Job Forecast
Skilled-trade professions are in high demand. According to the latest edition of the West Michigan Talent Assessment and Outlook, 10-year growth is projected in construction jobs, ranging from about 7 percent to 34 percent. Last year two students were hired by local companies because of the work they did in the class.
Hands-on exposure to careers creates the kind of connections students need, Bakri said. The class is a great example of the style of learning emphasized lately to build the future workforce. It helps students develop collaboration, problem-solving, creativity and critical-thinking skills. Said Bakri, “What (Croskey) is doing on a regular basis is exactly what we want our core teachers to do on a regular basis.”
Drills buzzed and hammers pounded as students installed drywall on a recent sunny Wednesday.
“It’s just the experience,” freshman Hector Avalos said about why he likes the class. He plans to become an engineer and start his own construction business. “You can look at something and say, ‘I know what that is and I know what that is.”
Senior Shannon McGhee said he’s learned to love carpentry and enjoys the setting of the class. “It’s more outdoors. You get out of the classroom. You do more hands-on things instead of being stuck in a classroom.”
Senior Jeremy Henry said he’s interested in carpentry as an occupation, but the class will help him in the future no matter what. “When I’m a homeowner, if something needs to be repaired I will know how to fix it.”
Senior Daniah Ali had her own reason for taking the course: defiance. “My brother took it and he said girls couldn’t do this.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Seniors Allison Quinn and Chloe Quinn move a piece of drywall
The Kent County Recycling Center will reopen today, Dec. 18, following scheduled upgrades.
Kent County entered into a planned facility outage Nov. 28 to install equipment to mechanically sort paper cartons and corrugated cardboard to help keep up with the community’s growing recycling needs. Kent County expected the outage to go through Dec.19 but is ready to begin processing recyclables a day ahead of schedule.
“All the equipment was installed as expected and we’ve tested it to make sure everything is working property so we’re looking forward to seeing the haulers deliver recyclables to us on Monday morning” said Nic VanderVinne, Resource Recovery and Recycling Manager for the Kent County Department of Public Works. “We’ve added two major pieces of equipment that will help us manage the incoming material. Adding cartons to the recycling stream will address a type of packaging that is growing in popularity but was previously not recyclable in West Michigan.”
As a result of the upgrades, residents and businesses whose recycling comes to Kent County’s Recycling Center will be able to include cartons, including empty creamer, soy and almond milk containers, juice boxes, milk cartons and boxed water.
The Kent County Recycling & Education Center is approaching its eighth year of processing single-stream recycling. Over the past seven years, the center has undergone periodic maintenance and upgrades to adapt to changes in community recycling habits. Kent County is investing $1.5 million into this round of upgrades.
The Recycling Education Center will be open to the public and staff will be available to answer questions on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week from 1-5 p.m. The facility is located at 977 Wealthy SW in Grand Rapids.
“Enjoy yourselves… it’s laaaa-ter than you think…”
An eye condition had pretty much knocked out my ability to read very well for a couple of months, and as things gradually improved I began to long for a nice book. I kept bringing books home for weeks, as if I might be reading them the next day, but I never did–I couldn’t.
Then, one day a man began describing the book he had just finished in such laudatory terms, that I took it home. It was a small book, easy to hold, with large, clear print and an intriguing cover. The book turned out to be beautifully written–a sharp, insightful look at the human heart. It had the crisp pacing of a thriller, the philosophical bent of a C.S. Lewis, and the sociological pondering of an E.O. Wilson, combined with a Mark Twain like humor.
It’s the true story of two men, who the author came to know well. The first man is his childhood rabbi, a scholarly man. The second is a man who came to the cloth from desperation, begging God to spare his life from the drug dealers hunting him down one night. They couldn’t be more different in some ways, or more alike in others. Over the years, Albom becomes more and more involved in their stories, their congregants, and the mystery of how a philosophy of ourselves and the universe can shape our time on earth.
From a man whose temple in New Jersey included Auschwitz survivors, to a different type of church in Detroit, where the pastor’s challenges involve finding enough food and clothing for his flock, their stories provide the canvass for Albom to consider his own life.
At the end when there are two eulogies to be performed (get out the kleenex!), I felt I would remember this book and the people in it for a long time.
