See your favorite characters come to life at the annual Night at Your Museum event hosted by the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) on Wednesday, Dec. 28, from 6 to 9 p.m. Night at Your Museum is held annually at the GRPM, and is based on the popular 2006, 2009 and 2014 movies.
Using a souvenir flashlight and honorary security guard badge upon admittance to the dimly-lit museum, visitors become part of the unfolding drama as characters from the GRPM exhibits come to life! Visitors will experience an interactive evening of character appearances, entertainment, food and fun. Meet Betsy Ross, Cleopatra and her clan, Civil War soldiers, knights, the Queen and many more. See knights battle, ride the Spillman Carousel and enjoy watching a Mighty Wurlitzer concert or a show in the Chaffee Planetarium.
All tickets include admission to the event and dinner. Dinner will include salad, Pad Thai (gluten free/vegan), mac & cheese, spaghetti & meatballs, bread and a Pepsi product.
Advance purchase of tickets is strongly suggested as the event sells out each year. Tickets are on sale now. The cost is $25 per person for the program. All proceeds from the event benefit the programs and exhibitions at the GRPM. For additional information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.grpm.org.
Museum members will have the advantage of early entrance at 5:30 p.m. and fast and easy check-in. For additional information on becoming a member of the GRPM please visit www.grpm.org/membership.
If your route this week requires you to go through the intersection of 44th Street and Breton Avenue, you might want to find an alternative.
For one day only – Wednesday, Dec. 7 – the Kentwood intersection will become a four-way stop while the traffic signal is replaced.
“The City of Grand Rapids was able to put in for a federal grant to fund the replacement work at the intersection,” said Tim Bradshaw, City of Kentwood’s Director of Engineering and Inspections. “Grand Rapids owns about an eighth of the intersection and Kentwood owns about seven-eighths of it.
“Grand Rapids was able to get about 80 percent in federal funding which helps significantly in creating a better, safer intersection.”
The equipment at the intersection was between 25to 30 years old, according Bradshaw. The signal heads and wiring are scheduled to be replaced with work at the intersection having started earlier this week.
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the 44th Street and Breton Avenue intersection will be a four-way stop. Commuters passing through that intersection should follow the rules of the road for a four-way stop. Those rules includes yielding to the driver on your right if both vehicles come to the intersection at the same time and yielding to a driver who is at the intersection before you.
“We do expect traffic will get backed up there,” Bradshaw said, adding that the work may be done sooner depending on weather. Weather forecasts are indicating snow in the morning which could slow workers down, Bradshaw said.
A group of local residents are part of a documentary on philanthropy which will air on WKTV 25 this month.
Grand Valley State University Associate Professor Salvatore Alaimo explores the concept of giving through the stories and perspectives of a variety of people from a group called the Caregivers Sewing Group who meet at Wyoming’s Gall Sewing and Vac Center to Emmy-nominated star of “M*A*S*H” and “Providence” Mike Farrell.
“What is Philanthropy?” will air at noon Wednesday, Dec. 7; 11:30 a.m.; Friday, Dec. 9; and 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, on WKTV 25.
Also sharing their stories on philanthropy are U.S. Senator Charles Grassley, of Iowa, Newman’s Own Organics President and Co-founder Neil Newman, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith, Estée Lauder Companies’ Evelyn Lauder, Civil Rights leader Dr. William G. Anderson and Indiana super volunteer Amber Kriech. Their comments are mixed in with some of the leading scholars in the field along with average citizens.
Emmy-nominated star of “M*A*S*H” and “Providence” Mike Farrell
According to Alaimo, his film, “What Is Philanthropy?,” enhances our understanding of the concept of philanthropy and its role in American culture and society. It seeks to broaden perspectives for giving, enhance understanding for philanthropy’s capabilities and shortcomings, and provoke us to reflect on our giving, he said.
“Philanthropy is not well understood by policy makers or the general public,” said Aaron Doorman for the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy. “This film helps address that problem. A thorough and honest portrayal of the strengths and shortcomings of philanthropy is just what the doctor ordered.”
The film has been shown in several universities throughout the United States including locally at Grand Valley State University, Aquinas College and Hope College. The film was an official selection to several film festivals including Queens World Film Festival, Bare Bones International Film Festival, Kingston Film Festival, Asheville Cinema Festival and was nominated for a 2015 Eclipse Award.
Alaimo, PhD, is an associate professor in the School of Public, Nonprofit and Health Administration at Grand Valley State University where he teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in philanthropy and nonprofit administration.
The Kentwood Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating a missing endangered person. Willie Donald Crawford was last seen on Dec. 3 near his home at 52nd Street and Eastern Avenue in the City of Kentwood. According to family, Crawford does have the beginning stages of dementia, is partially blind, but is not on any medications. The family is concerned for his safety due to his age.
Crawford is an 81-year-old black male, approximately 6 feet and 150 pounds. He has a full gray beard, gray/black hair and brown eyes. Crawford was last seen wearing a black leather jacket, blue jeans, brown hiking boots and a black baseball hat.
Anyone having any information regarding the whereabouts ofCrawford is being asked to contact the Kentwood Police Department at 616-698-6580, or your local law enforcement organization.
Kentwood residents Micah McDonald and Adam Wright in Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.” (Photo courtesy of Grand Rapids Civic Theatre)
When Kentwood residents Adam Wright and Micah McDonald headed into auditions in early fall, they both had their sights set on Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s children production of “Holes.” Instead, they ended up being dancing dishes and flatware in the company’s presentation of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.”
“This summer, I actually was doing another show [the summer repertory production “Into the Woods”] and everyone was talking about ‘Beauty and the Beast,’” said McDonald, who is a 2016 graduate of East Kentwood High School and is pursuing theater at Grand Rapids Community College. “I knew I wanted to be in another show at Civic and they had double auditions for ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘Holes.’ I was thinking ‘Holes,’ but I kind of wanted to be a part of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ because it had been a part of my childhood, and I ended up getting a part.”
Wright said he went into auditions looking for a possible role in “Holes,” but instead landed in “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” along side his friend McDonald, who the two shared the role of the prince in “Into the Woods.” Along with being a wolf, townsperson and dancing dish, Wright again portrays a prince, this time the young, selfish prince who is turned into the Beast.
“It was kind of hard becoming that prince,” said Wright, who is a sophomore at Caledonia High School. “It was difficult in that the young prince is such a nasty person, stern and very hard on people.” A trait that Wright simply does not have.
McDonald is also in the ensemble, portraying a villager along with a gargoyle and a candlestick during the “showstopper —according to both McDonald and Wright —number of “Be My Guest.”
“There is so much going on,” McDonald said of the “Be Out Guest” scene. “It was so hard to learn but it all came together. The scene is extremely entertaining and so much fun and the crowds reaction has been amazing.”
In fact the cast has been overwhelmed by the positive reaction of the audience and community. “In a preview, we had more than 25 seconds of applause,” Wright said.
“We have had sold out shows and the crowds, their reactions, laughing at everything,” McDonald said. “It really has been a good time for everyone. The audience is so engaged and there have been so many little kids helping to bring the magic of the story to life.”
In fact the reaction the Civic Theater production has been so overwhelmingly positive that tickets are limited. Check online, at grct.org for availability.
McDonald, who got the acting bug at East Kentwood High School as a junior when he performed in “Cats” under the directorship of Scott Mellema, said he hopes to pursue Christmas musical theater in New York. But no matter where he goes next, being part of “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” will be a special memory for him.
“I partially wanted to be a part of this show because it is a part of my childhood and it gave me the opportunity to relive that part.”
And for Wright as well, the production has been an experience he will not forget. “It truly has been magical being apart of a truly amazing cast and having the opportunity to bring my childhood to life,” Wright said.
Dancing. Music. Harry Potter-themed activities & a special giveaway. These are a few of the various things you’ll find at the Harry Potter Magical Holiday Ball.
Barnes & NobleGrand Rapidscordially invites customers of all ages to experience its first-ever Harry Potter Magical Holiday Ball on Friday, Dec. 9, starting at 7 pm at Woodland Mall, 3195 28th St. SE. Barnes & Noble’s Harry Potter Magical Holiday Ball will feature dancing, music, Harry Potter-themed activities and a special giveaway. Customers are encouraged to wear their most festive Harry Potter costumes and holiday attire to the special event as they dance the night away and celebrate all things Harry Potter with Barnes & NobleGrand Rapids.
Magical Harry Potter-Themed Activities & Giveaways
The Harry Potter Magical Holiday Ball will be complemented by special activities, featuring a designatedHarry Potter-themed Craft Making Station, where customers can create their own ornaments and owl fans, while supplies last. There will also be Wizard Charades, Trivia, a Word Search, and more, plus a coloring station for customers to enjoy, and a special photo-op station where they will be able to forever capture the magic of the Harry Potter-inspired celebration. Barnes & NobleGrand Rapidswill also feature delicious treats from the Barnes & Noble Café, including free samples of a festive sugar cookie and a caramel apple spice drink, available while supplies last.
Plus,Barnes & Noble Grand Rapids will offer a free giveaway of a specialHarry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets: The Illustrated Editionposter, available while supplies last.
Additional activities that will take place at Barnes & Noble Grand Rapids include special guest DJ AB (Adrian Butler), kid friendly crafts, Quidditch games and a costume contest runway.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Barnes & Noble
Fans of Harry Potter can continue to relive the magic at Barnes & Noble this holiday season with a dedicated Harry Potter experience inside Barnes & NobleGrand Rapids.Customers can shop a unique assortment of books and gifts from J. K. Rowling’s wizarding world, includingHarry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts I and II,Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay, as well as Harry Potter wands, chess sets, music and DVDs, hats, scarves and so much more. For additional details, customers can visit Barnes & NobleGrand Rapidstoday.
For more information on how customers can relive the magic of Harry Potter at Barnes & NobleGrand Rapids this holiday season with Barnes & Noble’s Harry Potter Magical Holiday Ball, they should visitBN.com/MagicalHolidayBall. For more information on Barnes & Noble’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter with a unique assortment of books, toys & games and gifts, perfect for the whole family, customers should visitBN.com/HarryPotter.
Marketing and Communications Direction, Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Nonstop service from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) will begin in Grand Rapids in April of next year.
American Airlines announced the service today, which will be operated by American Eagle. The service begins on April 4, 2017 – just in time for Spring Break – and will feature 12 weekly round trips. Tickets already are on sale.
“Nonstop service to Reagan National Airport has been a target market of ours, and we are happy to have this route added for both our leisure and business travelers headed to the Washington, D.C. area,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Interim President & CEO Phil Johnson. “We are confident that our West Michigan community will support this service as we continue to expand our route map with American Airlines.”
The flight schedule for the new service includes departure times from Grand Rapids twice daily at 7:20 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. Sunday through Friday, and one daily departure at 9:40 a.m. on Saturdays. Service departing DCA and returning to GRR is twice daily at 10:00 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. Sunday through Friday, with a 4:00 p.m. daily departure time on Saturdays.
American Airlines has served Gerald R. Ford International Airport passengers for more than 25 years, and also has nonstop service to Chicago-O’Hare, Dallas Fort Worth, Charlotte, and Philadelphia.
This is a book that gets under your skin. The author’s sheer storytelling skill accomplishes the Herculean task of sparking interest in a subject many would rather ignore: Detroit. LeDuff is one of those native sons that couldn’t leave fast enough after high school, but like a comet was eventually pulled back home.
Starting at the Alaska “Fisherman’s Journal,” and then rising to the “New York Times,” the Pulitzer winning LeDuff had been gone for many years before he returned, taking a job with the “Detroit News.” He wanted to get to the bottom of what had happened to his hometown, and to his family, (two of whom died in Detroit, and not naturally). His intimate stories have a Rick Bragg/Hunter Thompson flair, as he goes about the city exposing malfeasance, and raining down brimstone on the politicians and others responsible. Embedding with various groups, high and low, to uncover just how Detroit unraveled, he uncovers some pretty remarkable stories. The haunting vignettes of good people in absurd (or worse, deadly) situations stay with you. They — we all — deserve better than what those who have torn the city apart have left there — a city that could rival Chernobyl in some respects. Not without ironic humor though, as when his brother steps way down the employment ladder, by taking an $8.50 hour job cleaning and boxing Chinese screws that “may be made in the U.S.” Or the odd Oprah/Gates Jr. moment when LeDuff discovers that he’s the “palest black man in Michigan.”
There’s plenty of blame to go around when they ask, “Who lost Detroit?.” How did the city that was rated the wealthiest in America, per capita, in 1950, sink so low? What LeDuff leans into is the fact that while the nation initially felt unconcerned about Detroit, now it is being scrutinized more carefully, as if it were a portent.
Get ready to kick off the holiday season with Kentwood Tree Lighting Ceremony, taking place Friday, Dec. 9.
Everyone is invited to attend an evening filled with festive events, which include a Holiday Light Parade, carriage and hay rides, live holiday music and pictures with Santa.
The free event will be held on Friday, Dec. 9 at 6 pm at the Kentwood Public Library, 4950 Breton Ave. SE in Kentwood.
“The holiday event at the Library is quickly becoming a highlight for our community, creating traditions and memories for our kids,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley. “What a great way to begin the season by celebrating peace on earth and good will toward all with your neighbors.”
The night begins at 6 pm with a Holiday Light Parade. The parade will start at the Kentwood Baptist Church at 2875 52nd St. SE and travel north on Breton for about 1/4 mile, then end at Kentwood City Hall at 4900 Breton SE. (More info here.)
At 7 pm, the tree will be lit in front of Kentwood Public Library, along with live holiday music from East Kentwood High School Jazz Band. Guests can shop in the Elves Express Gift Shop from 5-9 pm — and gifts start at just $2.00 each.
Sip some hot chocolate while eating cookies and get a photo with Santa!
Information is available on the City of Kentwood’s website, www.ci.kentwood.mi.us or by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at 616-656-5270. You can also follow the City of Kentwood on Facebook for the most up-to-date information regarding city events.
When it comes to encouraging students to give it their all, band director Troy Anderson says take the leap and yell “Geronimo!”
By that he means hold nothing back. Blow those horns and pound those drums with gusto.
“Why are you so scared of making a mistake?” Anderson recently asked his Kelloggsville High School band students as they were learning a song. “Please stop being scared of making a mistake. I need you to play big, whether it’s right or wrong. Geronimo. Jump please.”
Anderson leads his middle and high school bands by expecting the best, but still letting students know getting there is a messy process. Mistakes are part of the experience. He finds himself giving the Geronimo speech quite often.
“It’s a way to get them to realize that there are certain things that just aren’t that serious,” he said. As a student Anderson was timid about performing, and, as a result, missed out on experiences. “A lot of times they make mistakes because they’re scared,” he added.
Notes of Praise
Comments from some of director Troy Anderson’s band members, as compiled by fellow musician and student journalist Alexandrea Groters:
Lidia Torres, a senior clarinet player, said Anderson helped her open up and come out of her shell. “He has given every student an opportunity to be a part of the band,” Lidia said. Even if they had financial needs and didn’t own an instrument, “He found a way so that no kid would feel left out.”
Grady Sakshaug, a junior trombonist, said Anderson makes sure everyone understands the music, with a sense of humor. “He forms a connection with the students.”
His passion for students shines through, said Nyla Buggs, a sophomore trombonist. “(He’s) not negative in any way and he always tries to help out in any way he can.”
Instructing Lifelong Musicians
Anderson has spent the last dozen years encouraging Kelloggsville sixth- through 12th-grade bands to take the leap. During that time, band numbers have grown at all grade levels, even tripling at the middle school.
A trombonist, drummer, music writer and gospel music lover, the Northview High School graduate received his degree in instrumental music education at Western Illinois University.
Students are encouraged to go big in Troy Anderson band.
He now directs 264 students with help from assistant band director Amanda VanderMeulen. When Anderson started, there were 64 students in the high school band. Numbers in recent years have ranged between the 80s and 90s. At the middle school, numbers have grown from 27 to about 75 sixth-graders, from 30 to about 60 seventh-graders and from 15 to 50 eighth-graders.
Since his first year, Anderson has opened the high school band room during lunch to everyone, even non-band students, welcoming them to eat and hang out. People schoolwide became more aware of the band.
“You open it up, you let people in,” he said. “It changed a lot of things. It got to a point that we started to get asked to different events we normally didn’t do. … They got to know the kids.”
First- and second-place competition finishes have been numerous, but Anderson said it’s much more important to him to see music become a lifelong part of students’ lives. With middle school students he’s witnessed many moments when students first realize they can play and perform. “I get kids who don’t say a word and by the time they graduate they are section leaders, or drum majors.”
He often watches performances of former students who have gone on to pursue music careers and degrees. “That to me is the best thing,” he tells students. “That you enjoyed it so much here that you’re willing to go on (with music) from here.'”
Anderson’s dedication impresses middle school Principal Jim Alston.
“His passion for the music and band in general is contagious,” Alston said. “So when he travels to the elementary buildings to talk to incoming middle school students, the majority want to take part in band because they see his passion for music.”
Despite his openness to trial and error, Anderson demands accountability, from his students and from himself — with pushups.
While holding his podium during class, he performed five fast standing pushups after high school band students let him know he had forgotten to pause in the song they were practicing. If a student makes a mistake on the field they drop and give him five or run laps.
One time Anderson owed his students 25 pushups, which he did on the football field during marching band practice. “None of us are above the rules, we all have to follow them, even me,” he said.
Alston said Anderson provides the right mix of nurturing and high standards.
“He impacts them as musicians by allowing them to grow. He challenges them to get better every day. Those students benefit from his teaching style of holding them accountable for the music material, but building great positive relationships with them at the same time.”
Those relationships continue after graduation, Alston added: “Troy always has someone coming back to see him and talk to him.”
Alexandrea Groters rehearses.
Music and Burger King
Anderson, who has performed around the nation and the world, is the music minister at Shepherd’s Arm Ministries and writes music for other churches. He plays drums for the Flat River Big Band, trombone for Big Band Nouveau and in the Grand Rapids Symphonic Band.
But he became inspired to become a teacher while working at Burger King for 10 years, beginning at age 10. He became a trainer and manager by 18, and the job served as an anchor as he worked his way through college.
Even then, “I loved teaching,” he said of leading the Burger team employees. “I love music and I love teaching, so I just put it together.”
He especially loves teaching at Kelloggsville, a very diverse district, because of the differences students bring to the band. In his music appreciation class, he encourages students to bring in music representative of their cultures, from Korean music called K-Pop to African music. They also bring in food, another one of Anderson’s favorite things, and the band banquet becomes a spread of international foods.
“I’ve had so many great kids,” he said. “That’s what I love about the district, even beyond the music. Like any band director, I try to foster a good family atmosphere. I try to pride myself on this being a safe zone.”
The impact of that at the middle school is immeasurable, Alston said. “Band students are some of the most positive, academic students in the building. The more students we have involved in music and the fine arts, the better our behavior decreases and our scores increase. So to have someone like Troy in our building, pushing our students and growing his program, the better we will be as a whole.”
With a consistent message and stellar music, Anderson gives students faith in their own abilities — and the courage to yell “Geronimo!”
“The only thing I do is give them the ball and say here you go. You’re a family,” he said. “Really they do it all on their own.”
Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!
Santa visits the Gerald R. Ford International Airport
By Tara Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is getting into the holiday spirit with a music festival, and a visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus.
Kris Kringle will be listening to children’s requests, and passing out treats with Mrs. Claus in the Airport’s Grand Hall from 1 – 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8. The event is free and the public is welcome to attend. Visitors are encouraged to bring a camera to snap a photo with Santa Claus. Photos with Santa are free of charge, but the airport is asking guests to bring in two non-perishable food items per person.
In addition to Santa’s appearance, GFIA’s traditional Holiday Music Festival is running the week of December 5-9. The 22nd Annual Holiday Music Festival brings in middle and high school choirs from around West Michigan singing a variety of Christmas carols.
Of the 15 choirs performing, several of those are from the Wyoming and Kentwood area. On Tuesday, Dec. 6, at 1:30 p.m. is Legacy Christian 7th and 8th Grade Choir. Wednesday, Dec. 7, the choir from Godfrey-Lee High School performs at 11 a.m. followed by East Kentwood High School Varsity Voices at noon. Thursday, Dec. 8, the Madrigals from South Christian High School perform at 1 p.m. On Saturday, Dec. 9, the Wyoming Junior High Concert Choir performs at 10 a.m. with the choir from the Potter’s House at 2 p.m.
“Our airport is extremely busy around the holidays, but it is important for us to reflect upon what this season is all about,” said GFIA Interim President & CEO Phil Johnson. “We are hoping we can put some smiles on children’s faces as they sit on Santa’s lap and listen to carols, and at the same time we are asking West Michigan to give back to the community by donating non-perishable food items to those in need.”
The donated food items will go to Mel Trotter Ministries – a Grand Rapids organization serving the hungry, homeless and hurting in West Michigan through its shelter, food pantry, and job readiness and housing placement services.
“Life-change can start with a meal. That’s why we are blessed to partner with the Gerald R. Ford International Airport during our Fall Food Drive again this year,” said Dennis Van Kampen, CEO of Mel Trotter Ministries. “Partnerships like this one help make it possible for Mel Trotter Ministries to stock our pantry and serve more than 110 families a week who are seeking emergency food assistance.”
This holiday season relax and recline as the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s (GRPM) Chaffee Planetarium celebrates the holiday season with a holiday show, “Let it Snow.” This show features holiday music with visually enhanced animation making it a must see this season for both adults and children.
“Let it Snow” features a new variety of festive classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee, and includes a stunning multi-media finale by the Trans Siberian Orchestra. The soundtrack is visually enhanced with thematic animation, and special effects.
The program is a fun and entertaining experience for all ages, especially families. Tickets are $4 each with general admission to the Museum, free to Museum members and $5 each for planetarium only tickets. For more information and show times, visit grpm.org/Planetarium.
The recently renovated Chaffee Planetarium offers brand new shows featuring the latest Digistar projection technology and immersive surround sound for an unbelievably rich and realistic experience. The Chaffee Planetarium reopened in March 2014 after a major renovation, including all new technology, sound system, full dome and seating. The renovation was made possible through the generosity of our donors, including the lead gift from The Wege Foundation.
The Kent County Sheriff Departmentis partnering with local Meijer Stores to host the 15th annual ‘Shop With A Sheriff’ event, scheduled for 10 am on Sunday,Dec. 4 at the Gaines Twp Meijer at 1801 Marketplace Dr. SE.
The fun begins with a ride in a patrol car for a “lights and siren parade” around the Meijer parking lot and the kids are then dropped off in front of the store to partner with a Deputy for the shopping event.
Deputies volunteer their time to shop with a child and assist them with choosing necessities (coats, boots, hats, etc.) as well as a special gift that each child can choose for themselves or a family member. The Kent County Sheriff Department hopes to make this a special time of the year for approximately 120 underprivileged children.
More than 100 participating Meijer stores have paired underprivileged children with local area heroes to shop for holiday gifts for themselves and family as Meijer continues its annual holiday tradition with the ‘Shop with a Hero’ program.
All told, more than 3,500 children in the Midwest will shop 220 stores with local police officers, firefighters and veterans. Participants are also treated to pizza parties, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus or food baskets.
This event is possible due to the contributions from local business and individuals as well as Meijer, which donated over $200,000 in gift cards to the program to make the holiday season a little brighter for kids and families across the region.
WKTV is bringing you another exciting season of boys and girls high school basketball, along with the action-packed thrill of high school hockey.
Each Tuesday game will be broadcast that night on Live Wire Comcast Channel 24 at 10:30 p.m. throughout the Grand Rapids Metro Area and repeat on Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 in Wyoming & Kentwood. Every Friday game will be aired that night on Live Wire 24 at 10:30 p.m. and repeat Saturday at 11 a.m. on WKTV 25 and AT&T U-verse 99.
WKTV has got you covered!
Friday, December 2. Hockey: Bay City @ East Kentwood
Tuesday, December 6. Boys Basketball: Catholic Central @ Tri-Unity
Friday, December 9. Hockey: South Christian @ East Kentwood
Tuesday, December 13. Boy Basketball: West Catholic @ Kelloggsville
Friday, December 16. Boys & Girls Basketball: East Kentwood @ Wyoming
Tuesday, December 20. Girls & Boys Basketball: Unity Christian @ South Christian
Wednesday, December 28. Boys Basketball: Lowell vs Godwin Heights @ Cornerstone
For a complete schedule of local high school sports action in December, see now.wktv.org/sports/
Celebrate 100 years of tourism in West Michigan with the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA), as WMTA returns to the era of the roaring ’20s at their 100th Anniversary Gala on Jan. 7th, 2017 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids.
WMTA has played an essential and pioneering role in the promotion of tourism in Michigan over the years, paving the way for statewide campaigns such as “Pure Michigan,” as well as helping spread the word for local tourism chambers and visitors bureaus. WMTA today serves over 800 tourism-related businesses throughout West Michigan by promoting their offerings and helping attract travelers to spend their vacations in West Michigan.
It all began on May 7, 1917, when a meeting was called in the Pantlind Ballroom at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel with 75 delegates from every county in West Michigan attending to create the Michigan Tourist and Resort Association (MTRA). Supported by the memberships of resorts, hotels, retailers, chambers, and more, the MTRA was the first grass-roots tourist organization in the country. In 1934, MTRA rebranded itself as the West Michigan Tourist and Resort Association (WMTRA), and finally became the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) in 1961.
Now, 100 years and countless travelers later, WMTA is returning to the historic Pantlind Ballroom at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Join WMTA as they celebrate the past, commemorate those who paved the way for Michigan’s current thriving tourism economy, and look forward to many more years of promoting the best of West Michigan.
Period dress is welcomed and encouraged. WMTA is embracing the era of the roaring ‘20s, which was working its way into full swing when the organization was formed in 1917.
The Gala will begin with a cocktail reception at 6:30 pm, followed by dinner, a presentation on the history of WMTA and local tourism, live music and dancing.
Tickets are limited and are currently available to the public. They can be purchased for $100 each from WMTA.org/100thGala.
A special $100 room rate is available at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel for any attendees wishing to stay the night. Details may be found at the above URL.
Grand Valley State University (GVSU) senior capstone students present their thesis assignments focusing on how films impact children in matters of healing, coping with illness or understanding their world.
The moderator is therapist Ms. Janna Buskirk, who utilizes cinema therapy with her child patients.
There will be plenty of time for questions and reflections.
Anyone without a heart of stone will be moved by this brave boy and the fateful circumstances that brought Owen and the Anatolian together. Born with a genetic time bomb, Owen belongs to of one of those clubs that no one wants to join — those with very rare diseases.
Eventually diagnosed with Schwartz Jampel Syndrome, Owen’s muscles could not relax normally, causing pain and deformity.
At the same time that Owen was realizing the extent of his disability, withdrawing, and withering under the stares of strangers; not far away, a five-month-old puppy
was fighting for its life.
The puppy was the size of a large dog already, since he was one of the Turkish working guard breeds, bred for size, fearlessness, and the loyalty to never abandon their flock. A man had clubbed the puppy and left him for dead on some London train tracks. He was run over and grievously injured, but a series of incredible interventions saved him.
How the life journeys of these two fighters came together, along with the people, families, and institutions that supported them, really makes for a thoughtful, and incredible read. Yes, they’ve been featured on YouTube, and in several magazines, but you really want to read the whole story.
The book’s cover features a very small boy, holding on to a towering dog with gentle eyes, and Owen’s quote about his friend, “When Haatchi came, I wasn’t scared… he changed my life.”
More and more HR professionals are using the internet to find information about job candidates. In a recent poll of recruiters, 93% said that they look at a candidate’s social profile and 42% of those said that they’ve reconsidered a candidate based on what they found.
Knowing this, how can you create a good online first impression? Here are some tips to get you started.
Google yourself. Look at the first three or four pages to see what an employer will see. A search that brings up negative or inappropriate content could land you in an employer’s reject pile. And while having negative content online may hurt your chances of landing a job, having no information is almost as bad; recruiters may see this being out of touch or lacking skills.
To combat this, you need to get fresh, positive content on the internet. A good way to do this is to create or update your LinkedIn profile.
LinkedIn is the #1 social media site that employers and recruiters use to search for candidates, so it’s important to have a complete profile with detailed information about your skills and experience. Pay close attention to the following:
Photo: Your profile is eleven times more likely to be viewed if you include a photo of yourself. Be sure to use a professional-looking photo.
Headline: Your headline is the short description of you that follows your photo in LinkedIn. A strong headline uses key words that are relevant to the position that you’re searching for and makes people want to view your profile. This is your opportunity to sell yourself in 120 words or less. Be concise. Be creative.
Network: Once you set up your profile, connect with everyone you know: current and former colleagues, past employers, people in your industry, neighbors, family, friends and former classmates. And don’t forgot to follow companies that you may be interested in.
Building your online presence takes time, but these steps are a good start. Once you get some positive content on the web, remember to monitor it on a regular basis.
Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.
Brent Karhoff, of Hungerford Nichols CPAs and Advisors, speaking Nov. 30 to the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business Briefing Luncheon. (K.D. Norris/Now.WKTV.org)
Brett Karhoff, of Hungerford Nichols CPAs and Advisors, told Wyoming and Kentwood business leaders Wednesday that changes are likely coming to personal and small business taxes in the wake of the election of President-elect Donald Trump — but, he warns, don’t expect quick action.
“We have a new president, not a new tax law, yet,” Karhoff said, speaking Nov. 30 to the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business Briefing Luncheon. Despite having Republican control of the White House, the Senate and the House of Representatives, “Personally, I don’t think they will get it done in a year … maybe not even in this (2-year Congressional) term.”
In a discussion titled “The President’s Tax Plan: What will it mean to your business and family over the next four years?”, Karhoff detailed the existing Republican “A Better Way” plan — so-called the “Blueprint” — which proposes reducing the number of tax brackets; reducing tax rates on capital gains, dividends and interest income; and eliminating the Alternative Minimum Tax.
A key part of the Blueprint for personal taxes, he said, would be to eliminate all itemized deductions except mortgage interest and charitable contributions — pointing out that medical deductions could be on the block, something that could greatly impact seniors.
For business taxes, he said, a key point would include reducing corporate tax rate to 20 percent,
He also detailed some how some of Trump’s election season “contract” with taxpayers are similar or different from the existing Republican plan. (The contract is at donaldjtrump.com/contract)
Trump, according to his contract, would repeal the Net Investment Income Tax and, similar to the Blueprint, the Alternative Minimum Tax. It would also greatly increase the standard deduction for single and married taxpayers, more than doubling it.
For business taxes, Karhoff said, a proposed business tax rate of 15 percent could be good for small business, while a proposed one-time rate of 10 percent for repatriation of corporate profits held offshore could be good for large businesses.
While proposed tax reductions are made clear by both the Blueprint and Trump’s contract, Karhoff said, what is missing is how the revenue side of the federal budget will be balanced — “That may be the surprise in 2017.”
The bottom line for most Wyoming and Kentwood personal and small business taxpayers, Karhoff said, is that people should just watch and wait.
“It is probably worth paying attention to what is going on, what the Trump camp is planning,” he said. “Because I do think it will happen and you need to be prepared. (Changes) will come at some point and you need to be ready. To do that, there are some things you need to think about now, get all your itemized deductions into this year, maybe, into 2016, because in 2017 you may not be able to use them. You need to just watch and plan.”
Since the City of Wyoming established the City of Wyoming Tree Commission on July 18, this volunteer citizen group, also known as The Tree Amigos, has been busy laying groundwork to support its mission of increasing the City’s tree canopy. Accomplishments so far include creating by-laws, electing officers, confirming a fiduciary, moving the Tree City USA application forward and investigating grants and fund raising ideas.
Caitlin Boyce Saladin
This Saturday, Tree Commission members – and other Tree Amigos – will march in the Wyoming Santa Claus Parade along Division Avenue. They will hand out informational brochures and colorful decals featuring a new logo, designed by sixth-generation Wyoming resident Caitlin Boyce Saladin. A senior at the Stamps School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan, she has long been active in environmental and social justice causes. She graduated in 2013 from Catholic Central High School. “I grew up with a backyard full of trees,” Saladin said. “Even though our house was just a couple blocks from 44th Street and Burlingame, I got to see deer, opossums, skunks, racoons, birds and squirrels. I hope my little contribution might help my hometown to have more trees in more neighborhoods.”
The Wyoming Tree Commission meets the second Tuesday of every month from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Appointed members include former City councilman, Greg Bryan; Pam Jurick, arborists William Brown and Lauren Davis; retired teacher, Jim Ward; Godwin neighborhood watch leader, Lee Groth; and Stelle Slootmaker, Saladin’s mother. Citizen volunteer Elizabeth Kreager has been an active, dedicated participant. The Tree Commission invites all Wyoming residents who would like to join in at meetings or activities to come on board. After all, you can’t have too many amigos!
The Wyoming Tree commission, nick-named The Tree Amigos, seeks to develop and promote programs that maintain and improve Wyoming’s tree assets in our city’s public and private properties. We strive to foster a healthy, species-diverse tree canopy that meets or exceeds coverage percentages suggested by the Michigan DNR, US Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters.
Dave Wickerham returns for the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ holiday concerts at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum’s (GRPM) welcomes back Dave Wickerham for two holiday performances on the Mighty Wurlizter Theater Organ Dec.16 and 17.
Wickerham began playing the organ at the age of four. He then began his studies of the instrument at seven and carried out his formal studies of the classical organ at the University of Arizona. His career of organist has led him to travel across the country, as well as across the world. Throughout this career, he has been a Staff Organist at various venues including Organ Stop Pizza Restaurants, Pipes and Pizza, and Piper Music Palace, as well as internationally for the Theatre Organ Society of Australia, touring in Australia and New Zealand. Wicker ham and his family currently live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where he holds the position of co-manager and organist in residence at the historic Crystal Theatre in Crystal Falls.
Organ concerts are held at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, and at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, in the Meijer Theater at the GRPM. Tickets for this show do sell out, according to Public Museum officials. Tickets for individual concerts are $10 for the general public, $8 for Museum members, and $5 for children 17 and under. Tickets are available by visiting www.grpm.org/Organ or calling 616-456-3977.
The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ
The Wurlitzer Company of North Tonawanda, New York, manufactured and shipped Opus #1836, a “3 manual special,” to the Stanley Theater of Jersey City, New Jersey, on Feb. 9, 1928. The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ spent two decades entertaining customers at the Roaring 20’s Pizza Parlor on 28th Street in Grand Rapids, before it was moved to its current location at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Lisdoonvarna is the matchmaking capitol of Ireland, and I just happened to be passing through during their annual festival. Even though I wasn’t looking to get matched, I admit I was curious, and have to say it’s hilarious.
The town is studded with signs about matchmaking, along with hearts and cupids. A friendly old chap stopped to ask me if I’m here to get matched. When I told him no, he asked, “Have any of the old codgers come on to you yet? You should take 4 or 5 home with you; if one doesn’t work out you have plenty more to choose from!”
It turned out to be country-Western weekend. Really? I came all the way to Ireland for some Irish music and I got American-style Country? When I sat down and ordered fish and chips at a recommended restaurant, the place was almost empty but as I ate, it gradually filled up… with 80-something-year-olds! I swear, nobody there was under 75, and most were 10 years older.
But when the music started up, those octogenarians flooded the floor and danced like you wouldn’t believe and like I wouldn’t even begin to try. One gentleman at the bar kept trying to get me to dance but while all the older ladies were dressed to kill in their Sunday best and high heels, I was still in my hiking duds, including my clunky boots, so I passed. At that point, the place was jam-packed, from youngsters at the bar to a few who looked 90, and everyone in between.
This whole area around the Burren is full of interesting stops, including small artisan producers creating perfume and chocolate. Maybe to use in the matchmaking process?
I drove along a narrow, winding road through beautiful countryside full of cows, stone fences and wildflowers, out into the middle of nowhere to find the Burren Perfumery. It’s a lovely little place of stone buildings and organic gardens, started as a cottage industry in the ’70s by a botanist and passed through a couple of hands to its present owner. They make wonderful smelling all-natural lotions, balms, perfumes and candles, and let you wander through their gardens.
The tea room has baked goods to die for. I opted for a slice of the homemade carrot cake and a cup of tea made with herbs from their garden; whole leaves floated unstrained in my cup — mint, lemon balm, fennel, marjoram and ladies mantle. It’s the sensory details that make the place special, the sights of colorful petals, sounds of bees buzzing and birds chirping, smells of sweet perfume and tastes of luscious treats.
The next day, I veered off of the main road when I saw a sign for Hazel Mountain Chocolate. Another successful small producer, they have a shop where you can peek through a glass window to watch them create their confections. They make all kinds of different treats, something for every taste, and the place is rich with history as well.
Also on the property is a sweet little cafe with organic salads and amazing home-baked desserts. How do you ever decide?
When I pulled off down an interesting-looking side road, I ended up at a deserted abbey, which dates back to the 1100s. I wandered through the tombstones and ruins of the church all alone, under a half blue, half gray and moody sky, and marveled at the age of the inscriptions.
So if you get to Ireland, make sure you don’t miss County Clare and the Burren, and if you time it just right, you may even get matched.
About Lynn Strough
Lynn is a 50+ free spirit whose incarnations in this life have included graphic designer, children’s book author and illustrator, public speaker, teacher, fine art painter, wine educator in the Napa Valley, and world traveler. Through current circumstances, she has found herself single, without a job or a home, and poised for a great adventure.
“You could consider me homeless and unemployed, but I prefer nomad and self-employed, as I pack up my skills and head off with my small backpack and even smaller savings to circumnavigate the globe (or at least go until the money runs out). Get ready to tag along for the ride…starting now!”
All images copyright Lynn Strough and Travelynn Tales
The Sixth Annual Wyoming Gives Back event is set for tonight, Dec. 1, from 6 – 8 p.m .at Rogers Plaza Mall, 972 28th St. SW.
Event attendees who bring a new wrapped toy as a donation to the Salvation Army Angel Tree will receive a raffle ticket in exchange for a chance to win prizes from Wyoming businesses. The Wyoming Public Safety Department and the Wyoming Fire Department will be on hand as well the big guy himself, Santa Claus.
Local choirs and bands will be performing during the event. Musical performances include the Salvation Army Band, Tri-Unity Christian School Cherub Choir, Godwin Heights High School Chorale, Godwin Heights School Treble Choir, San Juan Diego Choir and the Wyoming Public Schools Jazz Band.
For more information, visit www.wyomingmi.gov.
Here Comes Santa Claus
The Ninth Annual Santa Parade is set for Saturday, Dec. 3. The parade, which is sponsored by the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce, kicks of at 10 a.m. on S. Division Avenue from 33rd Street heading southbound to Murray Street.
After the event, residents are invited to stop by Brann’s Sizzling’ Steaks & Sports Grill, 4132 S. Division for pictures with Santa.
Holiday Open House
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum will host its annual holiday open house Sunday, Dec. 4, from 1 – 4 p.m.
During the open house, there is no charge at the Ford Museum. The event also features a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus and a few of their reindeer along with holiday music.
Kentwood’s Got Talent
Talented or know someone who is? Then the City of Kentwood is looking for you.
As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, the city is hosting a talent show, Kentwood’s Got Talent. Singers, dancers, comedians, magicians, and instrumentalists of all ages are welcome, as long as they are six-years-old or older. Guidelines and applications are now available at www.yourkprd.org. If you are interested, get those applications in soon as the Deadline is Dec. 30. First round of auditions takes place Jan. 12 from 6 – 8 p.m. at the KDL Kentwood Branch Library, 4650 Breton Rd. SE, and the final competition takes place Aug. 11 from 7 – 9 p.m. on an outdoor state behind Kentwood City Hall, 490 Breton Rd. SE.
This holiday season, spend sometime shopping for those in need. The Kentwood Senior Center has two special projects that area residents can participate in.
There is the Holiday Food Drive and Mitten Tree hosted by the Kentwood Seniors. Donations of hats, scarves and mittens can be hung on a special tree in the lobby of the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. Canned goods and non-perishable food items maybe placed under the tree.
Also the Kentwood Senior Enrichment program is hosting the Santa to a Senior program. A Senior Santa Tree with items for area seniors also is located in the Kentwood Activities Center’s lobby. Residents are invited to take a tag and bring the item, wrapped, back to the center.
The deadline for items both the Senior Santa Tree and Mitten Tree is Dec. 16. For more information, visit www.yourkprd.org.
This is the only curbside pickup, folks. Please follow these guidelines:
Curbside Pickup – Saturday, Dec. 3 – (No Spring Pickup)
Leaves must be in PAPER BAGS.
Place at the curb by 6 am.
Brush must be tied in bundles no longer than 4 feet.
You may continue to drop off leaves at the WyomingPublic Works Yard Waste Site, 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW year-round. Note hours of operation change Dec. 10.
Drop-off Site – for Wyoming residents only
March 28-Dec. 10, 2016 (Closed on legal holidays).
Monday–Friday from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm.
Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm.
December through March (Winter Hours):
Monday–Thursday from 7:30 am to 4 pm.
No commercial dumping permitted.
No bags permitted.
Residents must register with I.D. each time they use the site.
For more info, go here or call 616.530.7260 during business hours.
It’s a long way from the tropical sunshine of the Dominican Republic to the snowy shores of Lake Michigan. Miguelina Quiñones has made not only a journey of miles but also a journey of emotional discovery to share her story of struggle and acceptance with us. Once an awkward immigrant child herself, she now works in a local school district that could be called the United Nations of the Midwest.
Alan Headbloom hosts Feel Like You Belong, a show filmed at WKTV focused on sharing the life stories of immigrants, expatriates, and refugees to the United States.
James “Jim” Gill, the new president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport
By Tara M. Hernandez
Gerald R. Ford International Airport
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board announced today that James “Jim” Gill has been hired as its new President & CEO.
Gill, who comes to Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) from Allegheny County Airport Authority in Pittsburgh, was selected as the finalist for the position by a search committee.
The Airport Authority Board voted unanimously to hire Gill at today’s board meeting.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jim to West Michigan, and we know he will thrive as the next CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said GFIA Board Chairman Roger Morgan. “Jim has a track record of strong leadership, community partnerships, and he is well known and well respected among his peers in the aviation industry. Jim will continue to spark our growth as we invest in customer service, technology and construction projects, and serve as a catalyst for West Michigan’s economic progress.”
Gill is an industry veteran with more than two decades of senior airport management experience. With deep roots in the Pittsburgh area, he has served 13 years of that time at the Allegheny County Airport Authority, whose two airports serve more than 8 million passengers per year. There he has been CFO since 2007, and added the COO position to his duties in 2015. He has also previously served as Interim Executive Director. Gill also spent six years at Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority as Deputy Airport Director & CFO.
Gill is an Accredited Airport Executive with the American Association of Airport Executives and an International Airport Professional through Airports Council International, one of a very select group of airport professionals to hold both credentials.
Gill has many successes in his career including personally overseeing the operation of Pittsburgh International Airport transfer from county control to a new independent airport authority, which was a multi-year, complex process requiring significant operational knowledge and dynamic collaboration with a variety of stakeholders including the FAA which must ultimately approve the transfer. Moreover, while serving in the capacity as Interim Executive Director at Pittsburgh, Gill facilitated an agreement to have Allegiant Air begin point-to-point service there as the airline’s first medium hub, a successful operation which has grown from five destinations in 2014 to eleven destinations today.
“I am delighted to be joining the talented team at GFIA and I look forward to moving forward together,” said Gill. “An airport is so often the first and last impression that travelers have of the community and region, and so one must be committed to delivering outstanding operational performance while exceeding customer service expectations. I know we will continue to have an outstanding record of success in West Michigan, and I am excited to help lead the airport into a new, expansive era while working closely with the Authority Board, airport management, staff, and our community and business partners.”
Among the Airport’s future plans is a current Gateway Transformation Project, which is set to complete Phase One in summer 2017. Additionally, the Airport Viewing Park is set to open in the spring, and GFIA is on pace to break another passenger record for 2016. Airport leadership is also underway in updating the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Master Plan.
“One of the things that attracted me to this job is the excitement surrounding the growth of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said Gill. “I am really looking forward to seeing all of these projects come to fruition, and to be the leader that helps drive even more growth and development in the future.”
The search committee was headed by GFIA Board Member Floyd Wilson, and Board Chairman Roger Morgan. Steven Baldwin & Associates – an Airport Management Consulting firm based out of Albany, New York – assisted in the recruiting process
“Jim has significant business and economic development experience,” said Wilson. “That is a perfect fit for the direction the board has envisioned for the new Authority.”
GFIA, which was named the top airport of its size in the region in 2015 by Airports Council International (ACI), welcomed a record 2.5 million passengers last year.
Gill will officially start work at the airport on January 9, 2017. He replaces Brian Ryks, who resigned in March to accept a position as CEO of the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
You might say that songstress Cécile McLorin Salvant, the season opening performer for the St. Cecilia Music Center’s 2016-17 Jazz Series, wasted no time in adding Grammy winner to her already melodic name.
On the heals of being the youngest winner the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition in 2010, McLorin Savant’s debut recording, WomanChild, was nominated for a Grammy in 2014 and her follow-up recording, For One to Love, won the Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album this year.
St. Cecilia executive director Cathy Holbrook, in supplied material, was not overstating facts when she said: states, “At 27 years old, Cécile is already a sensation.”
So expect a sensational night of vocal jazz when McLorin Salvant takes the stage Thursday, Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are still available.
Cécile McLorin Salvant
McLorin Salvant’s repertoire includes interpretations of little-known and scarcely recorded jazz and blues compositions, as well as unique takes on jazz standards, and original music and lyrics sung in a variety of different languages – English, Spanish and French, her native language.
The rest of this season’s St. Cecilia Jazz Series includes young — as in 13-year-old — pianist phenom Joey Alexander on March 23, and the SFJAZZ supergroup performing the music of Miles Davis as well as their own compositions on May. 4.
At the McLorin Savant concert, there will be a free post-concert “Meet-the-artist” reception for all ticket-holders. A pre-concert reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres is available for $15 per person in addition to the ticket cost.
For more information and tickets, call 616-459-2224 or visit scmc-onlilne.org.
Mushka (born in March of 2009) was a homeless boy whose whereabouts prior to his rescue were unknown, but he was as timid and reserved as they come.
During those first few days at the clinic, he cowered and shied away from Dr. Jen as she ran blood work on him and cleaned out his ears which were impacted with ear mite debris. And since he had just been neutered days before, he needed a good, old-fashioned bath to remove the grease and oils common in intact males, known as stud-tail. Usually at the end of a cat’s stay with Dr. Jen, he or she is putty in her hands, but that wasn’t the case, and Dr. Jen sent Mushka down to Big Sid’s for some much needed compassion, gentle and positive interaction and heaping doses of one-on-one! If anyone can bring out a frightened cat’s inner lion, the dedicated volunteers can for sure.
Mushka is as handsome as they come when his ears aren’t flat against his head. The volunteers dote on him daily and allow him to slowly open his petals and blossom; in time he will flourish and realize that life is better than good at Big Sid’s.
Mushka is adoptable! Go here to read about the adoption process and then fill out an application form here. Get info about Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) here.
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.
Don’t let this happen to you… or your car. Mind the rules.
If you live in the City of Wyoming and park on the street, there are no worries three seasons out of the year.
But during the winter months, it’s a different story — parking on both sides of the street can restrict the width of the street to a point where emergency vehicles are unable to have access.
To provide better access, the City implements Odd/Even Parking restrictions from December 1 until March 31. See the Odd/Even Parking ordinance for specific information.
According to the ordinance, from December 1 through the end of March of each year and during any declared snow emergency, any motor vehicles and other licensed trailers or equipment “shall be parked only on that side of the street having even numbers on even numbered calendar days and on that side of the street having odd numbers on the odd numbered calendar days between the hours of 12:00 midnight and 7 pm of the same day with the following exceptions:
When a residence is on a cul-de-sac, on-street parking shall only be on the even numbered calendar days.
When a residence is on a street already posted “No Parking”, the no parking restrictions shall apply.
Parked cars will not be ticketed from 7 pm to midnight. At any other time, cars must be parked on the correct side of the street according to that day’s date.
So, in a nutshell: On even numbered calendar days, park on the side of the street with even numbers (addresses) between midnight and 7 pm. On odd numbered days, park on the side with odd numbers. OK to park on either side from 7 pm to midnight.
I’m always afraid that a book with an animal on the cover will not offer more than a superficial helping of cuteness, so perhaps I was scared off from “The Good Good Pig,” imaging a type of “Green Acres” horror. But now I am kicking myself for waiting so long to enjoy such a wonderful read!
Part of the great appeal is the author’s style, then the wide ranging subject matter, and the rest is up to Christopher Hogwood himself, who carries a small memoir very well. Born a runt among runts, he was adopted out to the author and her husband when he was so small that he fit into a shoebox. But he was a pig with a powerful heart and will, and he grew up, fulfilling his dharma, and touching many lives in unexpected ways.
Fans of James Herriot, Temple Grandin, or Bill Bryson, may enjoy Sy Montgomery, as she combines a page-turning story with historic, scientific, and cultural
asides. A naturalist, author, and screen writer, Sy has gone to some of the world’s most unique areas to unravel ecological puzzles. She has passed through dark places in her life and travels, which makes her writing all the more insightful, and her love of her bucolic town in New Hampshire all the more special.
One year ago, MercyMe was riding on a float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, an experience that guitarist Mike Scheuchzer remembered as “surreal.”
“To ride down the road and see that many people, crammed on the street, it was literally like being in a movie and right in the middle of it,” he recalled. “That was one of the most surreal things I’ve ever done in my life.”
Today, the Grammy-nominated band from Greenville, Texas, is preparing for its 2016 Christmas tour, which opens Tues, Nov. 29, with the Grand Rapids Symphony at Resurrection Life Church in Grandville.
So far, MercyMe has only done about eight to 10 concerts with orchestra. But if Scheuchzer had his way, all of the group’s Christmas shows would be with symphony orchestra.
“It’s a stunning experience,” he said. “To add what an orchestra brings, it makes it feel that much more like Christmas. It’s really beautiful.”
Grand Rapids Symphony Associate Conductor John Varineau will lead the 7:30 p.m. concert at Resurrection Live Church, 5100 Ivanrest Ave. SW. Tickets start at $30.
Grand Rapids is the only Christmas show in the Midwest that MercyMe will perform with symphony orchestra this holiday season, making the concert an extra special experience for them.
“None of us are classically trained musicians,” said Scheuchzer, who co-founded MercyMe with vocalist Bart Millard, in 1994. “We have huge respect for what these men and women do. We stand in awe.”
Consisting of drummer Robby Shaffer, bassist Nathan Cochran and guitarist Barry Graul along with Scheuchzer and Millard, MercyMe will be in Grand Rapids with a Christmas-flavored concert including songs such “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “Winter Wonderland.”
When his father died in 1991, Millard, took up pen and paper to reflect on the loss.
Alone on a tour bus in the middle of the night, Millard, only 18 years old at the time, drew on his faith and gathered his thoughts about what it would be like to stand before God in heaven.
The lyrics became “I Can Only Imagine,” a song on MercyMe’s 1999 album, “The Worship Project.”
In the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorists attacks in 2001, the ballad soon dominated Christian radio, crossing over to mainstream radio in the next two years, spending 16 weeks in total on the Hot 100 Adult Contemporary Chart.
In 2010, “I Can Only Imagine” became the first single in the Christian genre certified platinum with over 1 million digital downloads. Four years later, it was certified double platinum with over 2 million digital downloads.
The Grammy-nominated band from Greenville, Texas, is credited with six of the top 50 Christian songs of the first decade of the 21st century, according to Billboard.
Winner of two American Music Awards, nominated for five in all, MercyMe’s hits include “Here With Me,” “Homesick” and “So Long Self,” The band was in Grand Rapids as part of the Rock and Worship Road Show that appeared in the Van Andel Arena in February 2013.
Letter by letter, fourth-grader David Espinoza read through the alphabet on flash cards. English-learner teacher Nicole Adams timed him with a stopwatch at 40 seconds. Unsatisfied, David wanted to try again.
“Last week you were only able to do it in one minute. Now 40 seconds seems slow,” Adams said.
David, a recent immigrant from Cuba who started at Gladiola Elementary School in September, tried again, hesitating at just one letter. His time: 34 seconds — a personal record. “Wow! Wow!” Adams exclaimed to a gleeful David, who wrote the time down on his data sheet.
First-grader Gustavo Aburto Ambriz shows his story to EL teacher Nicole Adams.
David is learning English letters, sounds and reading. By the end of the school year, he will be much more proficient. Adams spends time with him conversing in Spanish and English, in ways that capture his attention. David knows a lot about dinosaurs and, in Spanish, talked excitedly about a brachiosaurus. In English, he practiced words like “mouth” and “neck” while describing the prehistoric beast.
“He’s really eager to learn and not afraid to practice,” Adams said. “He will be much more fluent by the end of the year.” He has strong Spanish speaking, reading and academic skills, she said, so he’s on the right track.
Gladiola is one of only 35 schools recognized by the Michigan Department of Education for academic efforts for English learners over the past two years, and is eligible to be named a 2016 Title 1 Distinguished School in the category of Serving Special Populations (English learners). Also in the running are West Godwin Elementary in Godwin Heights Public Schools, Explorer Elementary in Kentwood Public Schools, Sibley Elementary in Grand Rapids Public Schools, and Appleview Elementary in Sparta Area Schools.
The top two schools will be announced in late November and recognized at the 2017 National Title 1 Conference in Long Beach, California.
The schools have shown growth in proficiency levels with their EL population.
David Lyon, who was hired as principal last year, credits a strong culture of shared leadership in the building and strong EL instruction including a full-time EL teacher, formerly Laura VanderWerf and now Adams.
Fourth-grader David Espinoza, who is from Cuba, uses beads that correspond to questions to grow his vocabulary.
He said EL students are held to high expectations, and not not limited because of low proficiency in English, Lyon said.
“Sometimes the perception in your struggle with English is your struggle with ability. This really proves you’re a very capable student in spite of your struggles with the language,” he said.
In-depth language instruction challenges EL students in Adams’ class to really think about words. They hold colorful beads resembling a caterpillar. Each bead corresponds with different questions on the classroom wall. When David thinks about a dinosaur, for example, he goes through each bead. What does it do? What does it look like? What is it made of? What are its parts? Where does it live? And what else?
At Godwin Heights, Director of Instruction Michelle Krynicki said staff works hard to build relationships and collaborate. Oftentimes, instruction can be tweaked in classrooms to benefit all students.
“The celebration for us at West Godwin is embracing the idea that all of these learners are our responsibility,” she said.
It was the night before Thanksgiving and not a student was sitting at Wyoming’s Daniel Heintzleman Auditorium as there were costumes to sew, props to prepare, and lines to review.
This weekend, the Wyoming Theater Company presents the musical “The Addams Family.” Created by cartoonist Charles Addams as a satirical version of the ideal 20th Century American family, “The Addams Family,” with its fascination with the macabre, became a cult hit in the mid-1960s with videos, an animated TV series, books, two feature films and a 2010 Broadway musical following. It is the musical that the Wyoming High School students are set to present this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Dec 1 – 3.
“It is very outside the box for us,” said junior Caitlyn Bulthuis who plays Grandma. “It’s a lot bigger show than what we have normally done in the past.”
Ansleigh Hamilton as Morticia and Pablo Marcos as Gomez.
It is also quite the opposite of the children’s productions the company presented last year, said 11th grader Clayton Howell who plays Pugsley Addams. “When I first read the script, I thought it sounded like a lot of fun,” Howell said. “And of course, I could see myself playing Pugsley.”
The characters in “The Addams Family” are very distinct from the crafty, but jolly, schemer and patriarch Gomez to the “electric” personality of Uncle Fester. This means having the right set of actors to pull off such an eccentric group of characters is essential for the show, something Director Jeremy Schnotala said he found when looking at his possible cast.
“I have a pretty good group of leads, about seven, who I felt could handle the parts along with about 10 future leads in the upcoming classes,” Schnotala said. “I applied early for the rights and we actually promoted this musical in the spring to help create some buzz for it.”
“Last year I played a Twit in ‘The Twits,'” said senior Matt Bulthuis, who plays Lucas in “The Addams Family.” “This part is really different for me and I like the change as I have the freedom to act more on my own and to improvise.”
The story centers around Wednesday who, normally a cold-hearted person (her favorite doll is a headless Marie Antoinette), has fallen in love with a normal, everyday guy named Lucas. This comes much to the surprise of her family but before Wednesday will agree to marriage, the two families must meet.
“I like the music,” said senior Cianna Gomez who plays Wednesday. For most of the cast, it is the music that makes the show. Among the most recognizable songs is “When You’re an Addams.”
“The music is so much fun,” said senior Olivia Cool, who is part of the orchestra pit. “When you perform at a concert, you have to play a specific portion. With the musical, there is more variety with you being asked to add or subtract depending on what is needed.”
“I really love the jokes,” said 11th grader Melissa Hadzikic, who plays Lucas’s mother Alice Beineke. “I really like the dynamics of the two families, one that is weird and kooky and the other that is normal and regular — here they are so different and they come together to make it work.”
The cast and crew
Much like the story, it takes all kinds of people to put together the production. More than 70 Wyoming High School students are involved from acting to building costumes, from back stage to the orchestra pit.. Many of the students have worked long days since unlike many high school companies, Wyoming Theatre builds all of its items for each show, Schnotala said.
“It’s my last musical,” said Ansleigh Hamilton who wanted it indicated that she said it with a sniff. Hamilton who plays Morticia, said she has been performing since seventh grade and has loved every moment. “It’s been work but its been fun. There is a little bit of dancing and [the show] has become a great favorite.”
Grand Rapids area beer lovers this fall will again get a chance to belly up the bar and learn more about their favorite libation as the Grand Rapids Public Museum returns its Beer Explorers program starting Thursday, Dec, 15.
A sampling of beers at the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Beer Explorers program — yes there is glasses of what you like available for purchase. (Supplied)
The series — which explores the roots of brewing beer with hands-on experiences related to the brewing and tasting of beer — will include programs on Jan. 12 and Feb. 16.
Classes begin at 6 p.m. and will be held on the 1st floor of the museum. Admission to each class includes general admission to the museum as well as three beer samples. A cash bar will also be available.
The December program is titled “History of Beer” and will feature museum curator Alex Forist talking about the history of beer but focused on the brewing history of Grand Rapids, as well as Michael Steil, from Founders Brewing Company, discussing the science of brewing.
The January program, “Beer Pairings”, will feature Founders experts discussion why certain beers and desserts work together. The February program, “Barrel Aging”, will focus on the process of barrel aging and how different factors affect the taste and quality of the beer.
Tickets to Beer Explorers is $8 for museum members and $18 for non-members. Participants must be 21 and older.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at 272 Pearl Street, NW. For tickets and more information visit grpm.org.
