All posts by Joanne

Great Lakes One Step Closer to Being Microbead Free

Area Education, Pets/Animals, Politics, Recycling, , , ,
Tiny microbeads in personal care products, which pose dangers to humans and aquatic life, are washing into public waterways. --- credit: Alliance for the Great Lakes
Tiny microbeads in personal care products, which pose dangers to humans and aquatic life, are washing into public waterways. — credit: Alliance for the Great Lakes

On Friday, the U.S. Senate voted unanimously to pass a bipartisan bill focused on keeping microbeads out of the Great Lakes. The Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015 will protect the Great Lakes from pollution caused by small, plastic microbeads that are ingredients in certain soaps and personal care products.

“Today’s vote is great news for our Great Lakes, which are critical to our economy and Michigan way of life,” said Senator Stabenow, co-chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force. “Microbeads pose a very real danger to our Great Lakes and threaten our fish and wildlife populations. This bipartisan bill is an important step in keeping our wildlife protected and our waters safe.”

The legislation passed through the House of Representatives earlier this month. It will phase out the manufacturing of products with microbeads, which get through water treatment facilities.

Microbeads from products like face washes and toothpaste often end up floating in the Great Lakes, where they can build up as plastic pollution and are often mistaken for food by fish. In the Great Lakes, anywhere between 1,500 to 1.1 million microbeads can be found per square mile.Microbeads

“This commonsense, bipartisan effort to phase out microbeads in consumer products like face wash and toothpaste is an important step toward protecting our Great Lakes,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force. “Synthetic plastic microbeads amplify the effects of pollution and threaten wildlife in the Great Lakes ecosystem. I’m pleased that my Senate colleagues are sending this vital measure to the President’s desk to ensure our Great Lakes continue to thrive.”

The world’s largest source of freshwater just became a little bit cleaner.

Northern United Brewing Company Installs Cambrian Innovation’s EcoVolt® Mini

Beer, Local Business, Recycling, , , , ,

EcoVolt MiniBy: Dianna Higgs-Stampfler

Cambrian Innovation, provider of distributed water and wastewater solutions for industrial producers, today announced Northern United Brewing Company (NUBC) is the first customer to install Cambrian’s EcoVolt® Mini. The EcoVolt® Mini converts high-strength wastewater into reusable quality water in one simple container designed specifically for growing breweries, wineries, and dairies. Northern United Brewing Company (NUBC), a family-owned Michigan brewery dedicated to making beers of outstanding art and flavor, will use EcoVolt® Mini to scale operations, cut operating costs, and improve its environmental footprint.

NUBC purchased the EcoVolt® Mini to alleviate pressure on the local wastewater treatment plant, allowing both the brewery and the community to grow. The State of Michigan provided a grant to help fund the project. EcoVolt® Mini will remove contaminants and solids from the wastewater while producing up to 11,500 therms of heat per year. The system will eliminate over 65 metric tons of CO2 per year, the equivalent of planting over 50 acres of trees every year. This initial installation will support an expansion of NUBC’s production of more than 40 percent.

“We were stuck between a rock and hard place—we wanted to make more beer to meet growing demand, but our community’s treatment plant capacity was tapped out,” said Northern United Brewing Company CEO and CFO Tony Grant. “With the City’s and State’s help, we are bringing wastewater management in-house with an innovative system from Cambrian. We’re excited to expand our production, and we’re proud to do our part to reduce pressure on the community’s water system.”

EcoVolt Tank Sunset
Photo Courtesy of Cambrian Innovation

Compressing the revolutionary bioelectrically enhanced EcoVolt® Reactor and the EcoVolt® MBR into one, prefabricated module, the EcoVolt®Mini is an all-in-one water reuse container. Designed for food and beverage producers that are generating under 15,000 – 20,000 gallons of wastewater a day, the Mini rapidly removes over 99.9 percent of pollutants and solids from the waste stream, producing reusable water and renewable biogas. The system is designed to be automated, cutting down on operating expenses and saving businesses the headache of dealing with their wastewater.

“This project is the result of a strong collaboration to adopt and implement the right solution not only for NUBC, but also the community,” said Cambrian CEO Matthew Silver. “The EcoVolt® Mini’s compact design brings our EcoVolt® product line to smaller-scale operations that still want the big benefits of advanced wastewater treatment.”

At current levels, the waste stream resulting from the NUBC brewing process uses a significant amount of the industrial capacity in the City of Dexter’s municipal wastewater treatment system, preventing new food, beverage, or agricultural businesses from setting up operations in Dexter. This venture between Cambrian and NUBC, which will knock down barriers to business growth within the region, is funded in part by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD) through the Strategic Growth Initiative Grant Program.

“This project is timely and very important,” stated Dexter Mayor, Shawn Keough. “Capacity constraints have not only capped NUBC’s growth, but they have affected the City’s ability to operate our plant efficiently. The solution developed by Cambrian and Northern United will hopefully free up capacity in our treatment system and reduce our operational challenges. We are excited to see the positive effects of this new technology.”

“We anticipate that this project will be a model that can be deployed across the State of Michigan. There are hundreds of food, beverage, and agricultural producers in Michigan who face the same challenges as NUBC,” said MDARD Agriculture Development Division Director Peter Anastor. “Cambrian’s innovative solution helps food and agriculture businesses grow and relieves pressure on our public infrastructure.”

NUBC’s EcoVolt® Mini is scheduled to be installed during the spring of 2016.

This article was republished with permission from Dianna at Promote Michigan. We do our best to help with the promotion of the great State of Michigan!

Secretary of State Offices will be Closed for Christmas and New Year’s Holidays

Holidays, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

Ruth_Johnson[1]
Secretary of State Ruth Johnson
By Secretary of State Ruth Johnson
(with a little help from Victoria Mullen)

Hey, State workers are people, too, and they deserve holidays off just like the rest of us. So here’s a heads up to take care of any Secretary of State business (i.e., renewing driver’s licenses, ID cards, license plates, etc.) before the holidays. The closures are:

  • Thursday, Dec. 24, Friday, Dec. 25, and SUPER!Centers will be closed on Saturday, Dec. 26 for Christmas.
  • Thursday, Dec. 31, Friday, Jan. 1, and SUPER!Centers will be closed on Saturday, Jan. 2 for New Year’s.

(See what we did there? Festive, no?)

You know the drill: The Department of State mails notices to motorists 45 days before their driver’s license or license plates expire to give them ample time to renew. Licenses and plates that expire on a day when state offices are closed, such as a holiday or weekend, can be renewed the following day without penalty.

Most people renewing license plates, driver’s licenses and ID cards can do business online at www.ExpressSOS.com or by mail. Easy-to-follow instructions can be found with the renewal notice. Additional services can be done online, too.

License plate tabs can be renewed at Self-Service Stations, many of which are available around the clock. Visit the Branch Office michigan license platesLocator at www.michigan.gov/SOS to find a Self-Service Station near you.

With the exception of holidays, offices are open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Smaller offices may close for the lunch hour. On Wednesdays most offices are open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with those in city centers open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PLUS offices and SUPER!Centers are open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays. SUPER!Centers also provide Saturday hours from 9 a.m. to noon.

To find Secretary of State office locations and services, visit www.michigan.gov/sos. Sign up for the official Secretary of State Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/michsos and Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/michigansos. Online services are available at www.expresssos.com.

Customers may call the Department of State Information Center to speak to a customer-service representative at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424).

West Catholic Makes it a Three-Peat

Citizen Journalism, Local Faces, Sports, , , , ,

West CatholicBy: Katelyn Kohane

Each of the last four years, West Catholic High School has earned the right to play in the Division 5 Championship Game at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. This season, the Falcons were looking for their third straight title.

Making it to Ford Field is a statement of a long season of hard work paying off and it culminates into the biggest game of the season as a battle for the best team in the division. Division 5 consists of teams with an enrollment of around 400 – 500 students.

The day of the championship, the team met at West Catholic High School to have breakfast together before loading on the bus. After breakfast, the team, along with many of its fans, attended Mass together at Saint Adalbert’s Church, which is a nice way to start the day before the Big Game. After Mass, the team loaded back on the bus to head to Detroit.

I am a graduate of West Catholic. My family and my cousins have all gone through West Catholic for many years. My father taught math, coached track and football, and ultimately retired from the school after 40 years. We always go to the football games. West Catholic as a program travels very well. Many people past and present make an effort to go to the games.

This year, there were five big Grey Hound buses that made the trip to Ford Field. Hundreds of cars ended up making the trek to support the team in the Championship as well.

West Catholic 2The bus ride was a blast. Of course, everyone on the bus knows each other because they are all from West, which makes the trip even more fun. After arriving in Detroit, the whole bus went to Hockeytown Café for lunch and to talk about the game with fellow friends and fans.

This past season, I was very proud watching the team play. One of the players, Carl Myers, happens to be my cousin! Carl is one of the captains and is an all-star lineman who earned All-State Honors. Carl has chosen to continue his education next year at the University of Michigan as a “preferred walk-on” for football. Carl also excels in track and field events such as the shot put and discus throw.

After lunch, it was time to head over to Ford Field to cheer on our team as they prepared for another State Championship against River Rouge. It was an exciting game that was consistently back and forth, especially during a 20-point 4th quarter when River Rouge threatened West Catholic down the stretch.

In the end West won 40 to 34! As the clock worked its way down to zero, you could feel the excitement brewing on the sidelines and in the stands. After the clock hit zero, the team ran onto the field to celebrate with their teammates and coaches. They received their third straight championship trophy and will also receive rings.

With the season in the books, I had the opportunity to talk with two important pieces to the Falcon’s success in 2015, my cousin Carl Myers and his good friend, and fellow captain, Connor Nemmers.

West Catholic 3What do you remember from the game?

Carl: “The guys were very big, very fast, and came down very hard. It was super hot in the stadium after playing in the snow the week before. They [River Rogue] were very disciplined. I knew that since it was my senior year and that it was going to be my last game, I had better go out on top! It was a lot of fun.”

Connor: “I remember everything from the game. Every snap and whistle. It was such a great way to leave our legacy at West.”

Connor, can you give me a few details describing the game? Also, what was the toughest part of the game from your standpoint?

Connor: “It was the greatest time of my life. The atmosphere inside was unbelievable when I looked around seeing all of the fans. In the game, the toughest part for me was, the last quarter as a whole. They started scoring very fast, and I thought we were going to lose at one point. We ended up coming up with the win though.”

Carl, you were voted to be a part of the “Dream Team”, could you tell me a little about that?

Carl: “I was the only one from the west side to be on the Dream Team, there were tons from the east. I got to meet and talk to some of the top guys in the state, but it’s cool knowing that I am also in the top. Mark Dantanio gave a good speech to the guys on the team about dreams.”

West Catholic 4Connor, last question, looking back on the season, which game was the most rewarding?

Connor: “My favorite game of the season was probably when we played Lansing Catholic. They were expected to win the state championship, but we ended up with the win. It just felt like a great game.”

It certainly sounds like the boys really worked hard to pull off the win at the championship game and it definitely shows they pulled together to get the final win.  Good luck to the team next year and to Carl and Connor as they finish up the school year. Go Green! Go White!

Katie works in the film industry as a camera operator and has worked on films like ‘All You Can Dream’, ‘Set Up’ and a TV show called ‘American Fallen Soldier.’ She loves helping WKTV with the Citizen Journalism team and working as a tech at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Katie loves working in the film industry and loves watching movies just as much!

Switch Getting Ready to Build as Bills Await Gov. Snyder’s Signature

Hard News, Local Business, Tech Trends, , , , , ,

Switch Pyramid campusAfter news broke that data storage giant Switch was looking to buy the old Steelcase pyramid building, and bring with it 1,000 jobs to the area within 10 years, the excitement permeated throughout not only West Michigan, but the entire state! One of the giants in the data storage industry, the Google of data storage if you will, was looking to make a home right here in West Michigan. A whole new industry looking to establish roots in the Great Lakes State.

However, things never go as smoothly as planned. Switch had one holdup before they were willing to make a home in Gaines Township, a tax break for data storage centers. After breaking a stalemate in the House late on Tuesday, the Senate signed off on the bills exempting data centers from sales and use taxes through 2035 if the industry meets job creation goals.

The bills are now waiting for Governor Rick Snyder’s signature to be put into effect.

Pyramid 1While the tax breaks were requested by Switch, they apply to all data centers in the state. The tax exemptions end if the collective data center industry doesn’t create at least 400 new jobs by 2022 and 1,000 new jobs by 2026.

Switch will move into the pyramid building at 4100 60th St. SE, a building that has been vacant since 2010. The building was purchased back in May by Norman Properties LLC. The company plans to use the site to build a 2 million-square-foot “SuperNap” data center.

It’s not just the tech industry that will see an influx in West Michigan, but also local businesses buoyed by Switch’s capital and economic impact. The company has a planned an initial $400 million construction budget and anticipates spending over $2 billion over the next decade. That money and business will be used primarily on local subcontractors.

The jobs created, and pay-rolled by Switch, are sure to bring a jolt to the local economy as well. Minimum wage for SuperNap jobs start at $15 per hour, plus benefits. Salary for a majority of the data center jobs pays between $60,000 and $200,000.

For a company with clients that include eBay, Sony, Boeing, Google, and Amazon to choose West Michigan as a major host site is an exciting opportunity to some, but for Gaines Township Supervisor Don Hilton Sr. it’s business as usual.

Steelcase Pyramid Interior“We’ve worked with many businesses before, and this one will be handled no differently. As of now, we haven’t received any requests from Switch,” stated Hilton who isn’t being caught up in the hoopla surrounding a new business coming into the area. When you’ve been on the job for 23 years like Hilton has, it’s all about the next step in the process.

With a new company also comes new employees who need a place to live. Gaines Township has vacant land available for real estate expansion and Hilton wouldn’t be surprised to see land developed as time goes forward.

“There are a lot of variables, but common sense says yes. With more people comes more demand for homes and real estate.”

Socks That Really Sock It To You (In a Very Good Way)

Beer, Local Business, Reviews, , , , , ,

bolder2By Victoria Mullen

Sure you’ve had it up to “there” with clever wordplay, but sometimes it can’t be helped. It’s been a really rough morning, and from time to time, cliches have a calming effect. Such is the case today.

Aside from that, did you know there’s a hot, new shop on South Division? It’s called boldSOCKS, and that’s not false advertising. If you’re a man, you’ll be in sock heaven. They have women’s socks, too, but the selection isn’t nearly as large or as bold as the men’s. I have already brought this to the establishment’s attention, and they have assured me that they will get right on it.

The creators of this long-overdue niche store say that the idea was sparked by some good-natured competition between the founders about who wore the coolest socks. It didn’t take long before they came to an impasse because there just weren’t any retailers with the cojones to carry a bold line of socks. The rest is a basement-to-Internet to brick-and-mortar story that warms the cockles of any heart. Other local companies also had humble beginnings in a founder’s basement and they grew to be incredibly profitable, so this thing could be HUGE.

Out of the original competition came the realization that men in conservative work environments need a way to express themselves. I mean, if you have to wear a monkey suit day after day after boring day, I guess you could express individuality with a tie, but even that might be too risky in ultra-conservative places like banks and such. Socks? That’s a whole ‘nother story.boldest21

Bold socks enable men in any field of employment and at any income level to rock just about any pattern, any color they like. Yessiree, a man can now control how much personality he feels is appropriate to reveal to the Big Cheese. Cross legs for just a peep of personality. For those particularly awful bosses, one need only refrain from crossing legs, and Mr. Mean is none the wiser.

As an aside, how can anyone live that way? I’m not judging; I honestly wanted to know. After pondering the dilemma for some time, it became clear to me that these socks are saving the world, one man at a time. By allowing some freedom of expression, these socks prevent men from going off the deep end. On a collective level, this is a huge feat. These socks deserve recognition for their contribution to the well-being of all of humanity.

On a more local level, men just want to have fun. Trends include mustache socks, airplane socks, penguin socks, and video game controller socks. If you’re not up to speed on the style of the moment, don’t despair; there’s a blog on the website that dishes on the color of the month, pairing ideas, trending patterns and more. Even the geekiest guy can rock a cool style and people will have absolutely no clue that he’s clueless.

MainPost-01-01The brick-and-mortar shop at 17 S. Division (near Fulton) has 600 square feet designed to mock an art gallery. Maybe “mock” isn’t the right word. How about “mimic?” No. That doesn’t feel right either. Resemble? Stop in the shop and let us know what you think.

So, guys, if you feel like letting some of your personality quirks peep out in a way that is socially acceptable, check out this shop. There are more than 200 styles and colors from which to choose.

Makes a great gift, by the way.

Still waiting on women’s socks.

Yep.

Waiting…

Learn to Shake, Rattle and Roll at GR Civic Theatre this Winter!

Education, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , , , ,

 

puc2-320[1]By Victoria Mullen

Nope. Even if you’re not a fan of the cold or ice or snow, there is absolutely no reason to be bored this winter. These offerings from the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre will have you enjoying the season in no time.

Unarmed Stage Combat Workshop (age 18 and up):

Ever wonder how actors perform realistic-looking actions like falling, punching, kicking, pulling, pushing, rolling, or choking without killing each other? OK, maybe you already know but haven’t given it a try yourself. Well, here’s your chance. This three-weekend series gives participants a chance to work with a professional stunt choreographer to explore basic safe practices in performing staged combat.

Class meets from 3-5 pm three Saturdays in January: the 16th, 23rd, and 30th. Space is limited (4-12 people). Invite your friends and family to the “In-Formance” for the final 30 minutes of class on January 30th and show off what you’ve learned.

This one’s popular folks, so register today. To sign up for the workshop go here. FEE $125.00Errol Flynn

Single Sword Stage Combat Workshop (age 18 and up):

Errol Flynn and Inigo Montoya are just two famous members of the swashbuckling legacy, and you can follow their fancy footsteps by taking this class. Presented by a certified professional instructor, this three-weekend workshop explores basic techniques within the Hollywood style of swordplay. You’ll learn the principles of footwork, spacing, protocol and safe technique. Invite family and friends to the final presentation to show off your new skills. Space is limited (4-12 people), so register now.

Class meets three 3-5 pm Saturdays, February 6, 13 & 27 (NO CLASS February 20). Classroom In-Formance: February 27th — The student may invite family and friends for the final 30 minutes of class! To sign up for this workshop go here. FEE $125.00

On a musical note (Ha! See what we did there?), Civic Theatre offers Musical Theatre Audition Prep Workshops with some presenters who have some serious cred, so you’ll be working with some of the best in the biz.

Broadway Actress, Laurie Veldheer, an alumni of the Civic School of Theatre Arts, has appeared on Broadway in Mamma Mia! as Sophie Sheridan and Newsies (Original Broadway Cast). She graduated from Penn State University with her B.F.A. in Musical Theatre and continues to study in NYC while pursuing her professional career.

Julie Freyer
Julia Freyer

Julia Freyer, a Grand Rapids native and Alumni of Civic School of Theatre Arts, is a proud graduate of Penn State University’s Musical Theatre Program. Freyer’s national tour credits include: A Chorus Line (Judy) with Michael Bennett’s original choreography set by Baayork Lee. Regional favorites: Paper Mill Playhouse in A Chorus Line (Judy) directed by Mitzi Hamilton, Sacramento Music Circus in A Chorus Line (Judy) directed by Stafford Arima, Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera (The Producers, Curtains), Atlanta Theatre of the Stars (The Producers), Pennsylvania Centre Stage (The Apple Tree, She Loves Me, Pop!). Julia is also a featured dancer with the American Pops Orchestra in Washington DC. Julia currently teaches dance to children and adults in the New York City.

Triple Threat Prep: Vocal, Acting & Dance with Laurie Veldheer and Julia Freyer:

Looking to perfect your vocal, acting and dance skills before Winter and Spring auditions? Let Broadway Actress, Laurie Veldheer and NYC-based audition coach, Julia Freyer take the mystery out of auditioning for musical theatre. Whether you are a beginner, or a veteran performer, Laurie and Julia will help you reach new heights and get the most out of your audition experience.

Session 1 (ages 8-12): Tuesday, December 22, 10am-3:30pm. Session 1 will work on Music first, then have an hour break for lunch and to change into dance clothes for the dance portion of the workshop. To sign up for Session 1 of the workshop, go here. FEE: $225.00

Session 2 (ages 13-Adults): Tuesday, December 22, 11:30am-5:00pm. Session 2 will work on dance first, then have an hour break for lunch before working on the musical portion of the workshop. To sign up for Session 2 of the workshop, go here. FEE: $225.00

Vocal Intensive with Laurie Veldheer   
Lauri Veldheer
Laurie Veldheer

Want to focus on the vocal portion of your audition? Well, this is the workshop for you! Broadway Actress Laurie Veldheer will help students choose appropriate material, maximize their vocal potential, and make strong acting choices. Anyone is welcome to register for this workshop, and students who have already taken the December 22nd workshop will benefit from added coaching and one-on-one time. Session 1 (8-12 year olds): December 29th, 10am-1pm To sign up for session 1 of the workshop, go here. FEE: $150

Session 2 (13-Adults): December 29th, 2pm-5pm  To sign up for session 2 of the workshop, go here. FEE: $150

Headed to College? What You Must Know

Education, Our Cities, , ,

GRCC TutorsBy: Charles Honey – School News Network

College costs and career options being what they are, students heading toward higher education would do well to keep a few basics in mind. After all, even President Obama’s daughter Malia has big decisions to make as she chooses which college to enroll in next fall.

Sure, you should scope out possible scholarships well ahead of time, and make sure to fill out that FAFSA form. But do you know how to study properly so you don’t bomb out of Intro to Western Civilization halfway through first semester?

Those are a few of the thoughts offered by area higher-education officials who agreed to provide School News Network with advice for college-bound students. We asked admissions officers to name three things they wish more students knew about college in order to be better prepared for it.

Following are their responses, on everything from making the most of your campus visits to getting your academics up to snuff. Happy college hunting!

Jodi Chycinski, director of admissions, Grand Valley State University

So often students who do well in high school get to college and find the environment very different from the environment in high school.’ – Jodi Chycinski, GVSU
So often students who do well in high school get to college and find the environment very different from the environment in high school.’ – Jodi Chycinski, GVSU

1. Many colleges and universities provide academic scholarships based on the student’s cumulative high school grade-point average and standardized test scores.  Beginning with the student’s freshman year, they should be focused on achieving academically as well as they can to give themselves as many opportunities as possible for college in the future.

2. Successful students in college take advantage of resources available to them. So often students that do well in high school get to college and find the environment very different from the environment in high school. It is really important to use services such as tutoring, writing centers and talking with faculty before you feel like you are struggling!

3. Many freshmen share that they do not know how to study when they get to college. They were able to successfully get through high school, but the demands of college quickly make them aware of their own limitations. High school students should spend some time understanding about their own personal learning style. There are many quick assessments online to help them figure it out. Once they know their learning style, they should begin to adjust their study habits in high school and utilize techniques specific to that style that they can carry into college.

Eric Mullen, associate dean of enrollment management and financial aid, Grand Rapids Community College

'Many eligible students mistakenly believe they won't be eligible for financial aid.’ – Eric Mullen, GRCC
‘Many eligible students mistakenly believe they won’t be eligible for financial aid.’ – Eric Mullen, GRCC

1. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)! Too many students don’t. Many eligible students mistakenly believe they won’t be eligible for financial aid because their families make too much money. Big mistake! In 2013, students who didn’t fill out their FAFSA missed out on over $2.9 billion in available Pell grant funds — over $90 million in Michigan alone. In addition, many colleges and universities use FAFSA data to make both merit and need-based awards. Not completing it can mean not being considered for these awards. Need help filling out the form? Just ask the institution you’ve applied to!

2. Is a four-year degree right for all students? Not necessarily. However, having a post-secondary credential is important for all students. Our regional economy requires skilled training and a strong knowledge base. GRCC offers many one- and two-year programs that equip students with the in-demand skills needed to fill great jobs. Also, having a post-high school credential greatly increases your lifelong earning potential and quality of life. Our Career Coach tool can help you explore your options.

3. The basics still matter! No matter what kind of degree or career you want to pursue, being able to read, write and use math will serve you well. Make sure you work with your high school counselor to select classes all the way through your senior year that will help you build this foundation. Need to brush up? A new partnership between Kahn Academy and The College Board provides free SAT preparation and can help boost your academic skills to college-ready levels.

Jessica Simon, coordinator of communications and visitor services, Ferris State University

‘Most importantly, you figure out if a campus feels enough like home to make it yours.’ – Jessica Simon, FSU
‘Most importantly, you figure out if a campus feels enough like home to make it yours.’ – Jessica Simon, FSU

1. Ferris does a good job of letting people know that our application is completely free. But we wish students knew just how much other free help is available to them. From tutoring and student groups to counseling and helping you get a job, Ferris and most other institutions offer great resources to help you be successful.

2. You have a lot of choices when figuring out where to go to school, so we always tell students to visit as many of their options as they are able. Ferris offers an admissions presentation, a campus tour and free lunch during our visits, and we also can help schedule a meeting with a program adviser. You get so much out of a campus visit, but most importantly, you figure out if a campus feels enough like home to make it yours.

3. In terms of financial aid and scholarships, we wish parents and students knew to be as proactive as possible. There is a scholarship for just about anything — for example, being left-handed can qualify you for scholarships! Ferris has some great internal academic scholarships, and also has plenty of links to outside scholarship search engines.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

TRUMBO: Or Oscar Season Begins

Citizen Journalism, Movie Review, , ,

It’s the most wonderful time of the year.

The popcorn’s popping, the crowds are gathering, and those pesky limited releases are finally getting to the general public in hopes of snagging a nomination for my beloved personal Super Bowl, the Oscars! The race has begun, so before the nominees are announced January 14, the studios are pushing the pride of their harvest, hoping to land at the least consideration for one of those gilded statuettes. The first films I’ve managed to see that I know to be striving for consideration is Jay Roach’s biopic of much-maligned screenwriter Dalton Trumbo, starring Bryan Cranston as the titular TRUMBO.

Bryan Cranston IS Dalton Trumbo
Bryan Cranston IS Dalton Trumbo

Bryan Cranston, as always, owns the film, playing the unflappable screenwriter Dalton Trumbo, leading the fight against the Red Scare in US courts and tirelessly concocting stories for various studio bosses behind pseudonyms so as to keep his family living in comfort. A communist in belief, he is held in contempt of Congress when he refuses to answer questions before HUAC and sent to prison. After serving his sentence, he finds the big studios don’t seek him out because of the stigma of his politics in the wake of McCarthyism, and instead seems doomed to work in B-movies and trash pictures like The Alien and the Farm Girl for the rest of his days due to his blacklisting. Even his neighbors make evident their disdain for him in their petty acts of vandalism to intimidate his family.

However, his passion and quality of work (including the likes of Roman Holiday and The Brave One) spreads the word of his still-present talent and eventually draws the attention of powerful, A-list Hollywood players such as Kirk Douglas and Otto Preminger, and the ire of John Wayne and gossip queen Hedda Hopper. In order to combat the crushing and relentless atmosphere of work, Trumbo enlists the aid of his children and devoted wife to help him cruise through screenplays bestowed on him by the company, while he sneaks his classier works to the bigwigs. Cranston has always had a knack for making us in awe of an average man’s amount of integrity and energy, from Malcolm in the Middle to last year’s GODZILLA. He is always pleasant to watch and has a wry wit that permeates this sometimes harrowing picture.

An example of Trumbo's classic pen.
An example of Trumbo’s now-classic works.

The rest of the cast is of particular mention as making the ticket price worth it. Joining Cranston is Diane Lane as his aforementioned wife, American treasure John Goodman as a cheapo movie producer who employs Trumbo after his prison sentence, cult favorite Alan Tudyk as a still-employed front for Trumbo’s classier work, Louis C.K. brings an anarchic edge to his extremist partner-in-crime to Trumbo, and Dame Helen Mirren oozes a petty grandeur as the debonair and equally detestable gossip columnist, Hedda Hopper.

A key standout in the supporting cast is Kiwi actor Dean O’Gorman playing legendary leading man Kirk Douglas. Mr. O’Gorman did such a great job that I hope they find time to make a Kirk Douglas biopic so he has an excuse to keep playing him.

The film plays out quite well, never stooping to clichéd routes of storytelling outside of the final speech, where it felt deserved. It takes a special hand to make these true life accounts not seem like they’re going by the numbers as some biopics can easily go (*cough* 42 *cough*). In terms of telling the story without overstaying its welcome, it is also a success, being very brisk in pacing. Whenever something dour happens, Trumbo proverbially brushes off his coat and continues onward, unswayed by the roadblocks before him.

If you’re still wondering if this qualifies as an awards contender, this film is leading the Screen Actors Guild awards in nominations, a sure sign of Oscar-worthiness. As a history lesson, TRUMBO proves just as watchable as one of the History Channel’s epic mini-series, and as a tale about the dangers of hateful group-think, it’s a film that could be useful as a tool exploring the consequences of blacklisting others because of their differences, regardless of your political or religious beliefs. Check it out at a theater near you!

GM Set to Invest 43 Million into Wyoming Plant

Area Education, Hard News, Local Business, Our Cities, , ,

General MotorsBack in June, General Motors announced a $119 million dollar investment into its Grand Rapids Operations plant as part of the company’s commitment to invest $1 billion in Michigan by 2030.

GM announced today they will be investing another $43.35 million for power train components at the 1600 Burton Street location. The new investment will create 55 new jobs while retaining 15 jobs.

“This investment signifies a commitment to the men and women of Grand Rapids Operations and their dedication to produce precision machined automotive components to support numerous GM product applications used in a variety of Buick, Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac vehicles,” said Grand Rapids Operations Plant Manager Rick Demuynck.

The plant currently employs 530 employees , 400 hourly and 130 salaried.

“This commitment not only reflects confidence in the Grand Rapids team, along with the leadership of the UAW, but also showcases the sense of ownership and pride our employees have in the products they build,” explained Demuynk.

Investing in manufacturing here in West Michigan is a win for the entire community.

Santa Comes to You at the Drive-Thru

Holidays, Local Faces, Our Cities, Recreation, , , , , ,
Santa waiting to spread Christmas cheer to all the Children ready to hear!
Santa waiting to spread Christmas cheer to all the Children ready to hear!

Cars full of kids made their way to the Kentwood Activities Center this past Friday night. It was chilly, but the weather was clear of any wet particles falling from the sky, and everyone was bundled up as needed for a brand new event held by the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department. Instead of the children and their families hustling out of the vehicles and darting towards the activity center, they stayed in the car as the event was brought to them.

How often does Santa take the time to meet with you from the warmth of your own car on a cool December evening? Since we know all about his vehicle of choice (a sleigh) and the horse…er… deer power that pulls it from chimney to chimney, Santa decided to take an interest in the cars of the citizens of Kentwood. The big man greeted all those willing to see him with a HO HO HO!

However, Santa wasn’t the only one eager to meet new people, everyone’s favorite snowman Olaf was there as well. Yes, I would like to build a snowman!

In the end, over 100 kids experienced a new way to interact with Santa. It was one more time for the children to share their Christmas wishes with Santa and also make mention of their yearlong good behavior. No coal for anybody this Christmas![huge_it_slider id=”23″]

Call for Entries: 5th Annual Eclipse Awards For Regional Film, Video, and Television

Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, , , , , ,

2015 Eclipse AwardsCalling West Michigan’s best and brightest producers, directors, actors, writers, and film makers to submit their entries for the 2015 Eclipse Awards.

The Eclipse Awards honors content creators for Excellence in Craft in the disciplines of film, television, video, acting, sound, music and writing. Created by WKTV Community Television and Media as a means of empowering the West Michigan “voice” of content creators, the Eclipse Awards has become the big event for the creative community.

“There really are a large number of content creators here who are either fully established and enjoy the recognition, or who are just starting out and have that spark of genius with a great idea,” said Tom Norton, General Manager of WKTV.

Last year marked a new record with 70 entries for the 4th installment of the awards. This year, the event is expecting around 100 entries

Eclipse Awards 2016With the West Michigan Film & Video Alliance as the judging sponsor, judges from London, England, Toronto, Canada, New York City and Los Angeles will pour over this year’s entries and select nominees in each category.

“We’re tremendously pleased to be working with the WMFVA,” said Norton. “They really believe in the importance of West Michigan having regional awards recognition to help foster the creative spirit. The democratization of media over the last few decades has really given voice to a much wider array of creativity and WKTV wants to see it grow and expand.”

Entries are being accepted now through March 11, 2016. More information can be found on the website at www.theeclipseaward.com or by calling 616-269.5700. Entries are $35/Adults and $15/High school students.

The nominees will be announces on March 28, 2016. The awards show will be televised live at the City Flats Hotel Ballroom on Thursday, April 28.

Church “Adoption” Bonds School & Community

Education, Volunteers, , ,
Christ Lutheran Church members donated 24 emergency buckets for Gladiola Elementary classrooms
Christ Lutheran Church members donated 24 emergency buckets for Gladiola Elementary classrooms

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

When members of Wyoming-based Christ Lutheran Church approached Gladiola Elementary School Principal David Lyon about “adopting” the school, Lyon filled out a wish list of possible ways the church could support them. Instead of choosing one community service project, they wanted to fill all the requests, which were as diverse as helping out at Math Night to providing emergency buckets for classrooms in case of a long-term lockdown event.

“It really gives us a sense of community and of someone understanding needs that are not necessarily apparent,” Lyon said. “They asked, ‘What do you need done?’ and said, ‘Let’s make that happen for you.'”

Church member Nancy Heidrich, a retired Grandville High School teacher, helps second-grader Zoey Winship with math
Church member Nancy Heidrich, a retired Grandville High School teacher, helps second-grader Zoey Winship with math

Now church members regularly volunteer to help students in reading and math; they shelve books in the library. Their presence is felt throughout the Wyoming Public Schools building.

“We wanted to reach out to our neighbors and be of assistance,” said church member Kathy Reister, a retired pastor.

Church members of all ages have contributed. Middle school members assembled “Germ-free Buckets” for classrooms so students can easily access hand sanitizer and tissues. A Boy Scout troop made up of church members plans to spruce up the school courtyard. Members made homemade bags filled with school supplies and donated them.

On a recent Tuesday in the school hallway, church member Nancy Heidrich, a retired Grandville High School teacher, showed second-grader Zoey Winship cool addition tricks. She often reads to the students and offers a listening ear when they want to talk. “I enjoy it. I enjoy coming. I enjoy the kids,” she said.

Zoey likes it too. “She helps me with my work,” she said.

Being Prepared in Case of Emergency

Emergency buckets are stocked with items for classrooms to use in the events of a long-term shutdown
Emergency buckets are stocked with items for classrooms to use in the events of a long-term shutdown

The emergency buckets were recommended during a training offered by the Wyoming Police Department on emergency preparedness. They are something the school probably wouldn’t have purchased on its own, Lyons said, but they add a safety measure he’s thankful for.

In response to national school shootings, Gladiola, like schools nationwide, have lockdown drills, during which students practice what to do in case of an emergency.

The buckets, stocked with first-aid equipment, a flashlight, toilet paper, snacks, bandages, drinking cups, water and a fire extinguisher, will be stationed in all 24 classrooms for use in case of a real lockdown.

“It’s not a critical need until it’s a critical need,” Lyon said. “Hopefully we will never need to use them,” he said.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

What’s in a name? More than you know…

Area Education, Community Health, Our Cities, , , , ,

Baby 1 It happens every December and January, we take a look back at the year that was and focus our eyes towards what the New Year could bring.

One of the things ready to come out in mass production is the compilation of lists. The top-10 whatever of 2015. While most of these are frivolous and used for click-bait on the internet sometimes the can be fun, funny, and informative. It’s a formula so routine a New Year without them would be a shock to the system.

I find myself skipping over most of these lists to dive deeper into the vast abyss of the internet. A top-10 list only stands to slow me down. However, there is one exception that I always make sure to take a gander at, baby names.

Ever since I read Freakanomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything, my mind has a different way of processing a name. While it might seem names can set you up for a future of success, in fact, it’s the opposite, your name says more about where you came from. A name offers a deeper insight into where the parents and their life situation than it says about where the child is going to end up.

If you want more details and specifics, make sure to read Freakanomics, but the basic pattern is this: When a name becomes popular amongst high-income, highly-educated parents, it trickles down the socioeconomic ladder. For example, in 1990 the names Lauren and Madison started out as names used by the upper end of the socioeconomic spectrum. By the new Millennium it was one of the top-10 names overall. Names like Heather and Amber started as a high-end name in 1980 and twenty years later found themselves among the low-end names.

Once a name becomes popular on a national scale, those on the high-end start looking for something new. Eventually it becomes so common that low-end parents start to abandon it as well and go looking for names already broken in by those at the top of the socioeconomic ladder. That’s how names are cycled.

It all revolves around the idea of parents wanting to set their children up for long-term success. If a name is associated with success, it’s more likely to be duplicated.

About those baby lists mentioned at the beginning, on December 10, Spectrum Heath released their annual top-10 baby name list. To date, the Family Birthplace at Butterworth Hospital as delivered over 8,550 babies – more than any other hospital in Michigan.baby2

Where will these names be in 10 years? We’ll have to wait and see.

Some quick observations from 2014 to 2015:

Girls
•    Olivia holds onto the top spot for girls
•    Elizabeth, Evelyn, and Natalie came in at sixth, seventh, and eighth after not making the list in 2014
•    Abigail, Avery, Ella and Nora rounded out the top-10 in 2014 but failed to make the list in 2014

Boys
•    Liam bumped up from fourth to first for guys
•    Levi surged up to second after not appearing on the list in 2014
•    Noah took a tumble from first to seventh while William went from third to unranked

Spectrum’s top 10 names for girls in 2015

  1. Olivia
  2. Ava
  3. Emma
  4. Charlotte
  5. Sophia
  6. Elizabeth
  7. Evelyn
  8. Natalie
  9. Harper
  10. Isabella

Top 10 names for boys in 2015

  1. Liam
  2. Levi
  3. Oliver
  4. Carter
  5. Jackson
  6. Mason
  7. Noah
  8. Owen
  9. Henry
  10. Grayson

Spectrum’s list from last year:

Top 10 girls in 2014

  1. Olivia
  2. Emma
  3. Ava
  4. Charlotte
  5. Harper
  6. Sophia
  7. Abigail
  8. Avery
  9. Ella
  10. Nora

Top 10 boys in 2014

  1. Noah
  2. Mason
  3. William
  4. Liam
  5. Caleb
  6. Oliver
  7. Carter
  8. Henry
  9. Benjamin
  10. Jackson

Holiday Traditions and Treasures on Exhibit at Frederik Meijer Gardens

Local Entertainment, Recreation, , ,

If one gets the opportunity to visit Frederik Meijer Gardens between now and the arrival of the New Year, don’t squander this wonderful holiday gift! There are plentiful examples of holiday cheer and unique exhibitions that request viewing before some of them disappear forever! In addition to the enchanting Railway Garden, where model trains traverse a landscape filled with models of Grand Rapids landmarks as well as those of its sister cities, they are offering a chance to tour Holiday Traditions from around the world.

A tree representing Japanese cultural traditions.
A tree representing Japanese cultural traditions.

Talking to the volunteers manning the information desk yielded treasures of all sorts. Dave Pelak spoke enthusiastically of the holiday trees representing all different and diverse backgrounds in Meijer Gardens’ Holiday Exhibition. “You need to pay attention to the detail in all the ornaments and just the overall presentation on each of them.” He was particular about the German and Irish trees especially, saying that if it were up to him, “no one could leave until they find the pickle”, referring to the German tradition of hiding a pickle ornament in the trees of the Dutch.

Pelak went on to explain the great amount of care each and every piece in the exhibition is given, with ornaments and crafted decorations being transported in basically padded safes. The effort shows through as one walks through the beauteous showcase, as the meticulous setups and utterly charming atmosphere provided are near-guaranteed to lift up all Christmas and assorted holiday spirits.

To further drive home the magnetic power of the worldly pageant, the author encountered a delightfully curious happening. As I perused the various traditional settings, I heard multiple languages around and within the Holiday Showcase of trees. Not just the typical English and Spanish filled my ears, but also the words of Russian family and methinks a Korean one as well who passed through enjoying the  remarkable exhibition. These exhibits are truly examples that bring out the melting pot in our culture.

Traditional Irish Tree
Traditional Irish Tree

Also of note was the current exhibit within the Sculpture Gallery, just inside the entrance before one enters the Holiday Exhibition. Volunteer Cathy Ezinga told of how much of the current exhibition, rare and fragile Japanese art, is so delicate that once January 4th hits, the end of the exhibition, the pieces are being shipped off to Japan to be put in a sort of final resting place, out of public viewing, for the rest of time! That’s right, for just as the infomercials always claim, these pieces are only here for a very limited time and then they’re gone forever. Come to Frederik Meijer Gardens and behold the culture before it is too late.

Michigan-based Northern United Brewing Company Goes International

Beer, Local Business, , , , ,

Playground BrewingBy: Dianna Higgs-Stampfler

The makers of Jolly Pumpkin and North Peak Beer would like to announce their partnership with Seoul-based brewery, Playground. The craft beer industry in South Korea is just awakening and Playground Brewery is looking to bring variety and change to a country used to light lagers.

NUBC has been working with and training partners, Richard Kim and Soonbong Chun for over a year.  Training has taken place in the United States and in South Korea. Master Brewer and NUBC Partner, Mike Hall, is currently in Korea to assist with the final phase of the brewery install.

“We’ve installed a 37BBL system that will allow Playground to brew beers that are currently unavailable in Korea.  This is an exciting moment for us and for the burgeoning craft beer movement that is occurring in Korea.  Playground expects to have their systems in place and brew their inaugural batch this week.

Playground BreweryPlayground is focusing all of their talent and energy producing keg beer at this time, to provide the 10 million residents of Seoul locally made, hand craft beer at an affordable price. Continued growth is in the plans, but the primary focus is to brew the highest quality craft beer and be at the forefront of the artisan craft beer industry in Korea.  An on-site bistro will accompany the brewery and feature two amazing young chefs from Le Cordon Bleu.

Don’t Pause, Just Play. That’s the mantra Playground Brewery wants to convey, a fun side to overstressed Korean society. All partners are family men who cherish playground moments with their young children. “We remembered the best times we had with our children in photos at the playground,” says Richard Kim, Playground Brewery Founder and Partner.  Family values and time spent together on a playground helped derive the brewery’s name.

Playground Brewery is set to have a soft opening December 9th, with an official opening planned for December 19th. Beers scheduled for the opening are The Gentlemen, a Czech Pilsner; The Mistress, a Saison; and The Monk, a Korean IPA. “We are sure we will brew great beers that don’t exist in Korea’s market today. Our Partnership with NUBC enabled us to get here and we see them as more than just a partner,” Soonbong Chun, Playground Brewery Founder and Partner shared as the brewery opening draws near.

The brewery is located in the outskirts of Seoul at Gyeonggi-do, Goyang city,Ilsan seogu, Isanpo-gil 246-11. http://www.playgroundbrewery.com/

Northern United Brewing Company encompasses Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, North Peek Beer Co. craft beer brands, Nomad Cidery, as well as Civilized Spirits and Bonafide Wines. NUBC’s philosophy focuses on a dedication to conservation, inspiration and locally sustainable practices.

This article was republished with permission from Dianna at Promote Michigan. We do our best to help with the promotion of the great State of Michigan!

The Finished Product: Movies and Shows Presented at Comic-Con Come to Life!

Citizen Journalism, Movie Review, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , , , , , , ,
Star Wars: Episode VII
Star Wars: Episode VII is almost here! Some interesting fan theories are at the end – one including these two characters…

By: Katelyn Kohane

“Your mission should you choose to accept it…” is to continue reading to see what movies and television I have caught up on since San Diego Comic-Con.

After attending Comic-Con this past summer, I’ve found myself watching more movies and TV shows than normal.

Bill Murray in Rock the Kasbah at Comic-Con in Hall H.
Bill Murray in Rock the Kasbah at Comic-Con in Hall H.

I saw Rock the Kasbah with Bill Murray, Bruce Willis, and Kate Hudson. If you remember from a prior installment, I was in Hall H for that movie and was about 10 feet from Bill Murray! Rock the Kasbah is based on real events in Afghanistan. A music producer, played by Bill Murray, found a girl who had a beautiful voice and because of her culture could not share that gift. Bill Murray, her producer, was able to get her on Rising Star and she won. I loved the movie.

A few movies have broken records this year, with two of them being Furious 7 and Jurassic World. Also of particular notice is Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens, which crashed the Internet in 88 seconds when their first trailer aired. The Force Awakens is also expected to break records at the Box Office, having already shattered pre-sale records.

A few other movies I saw this year were Pixels, Black Mass, Everest, and The Martian. I also saw Spectre. Daniel Craig is one of my favorite James Bond actors. I really enjoyed Skyfall, but I thought Spectre was even better.

Cast of Mockingjay Part 2
Cast of Mockingjay Part 2

“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 is also out in theaters now. I am a big Hunger Games Fan and Finnick Odair is my favorite character. He is the victor from District 4 who wields the fishing spear as his weapon of choice, and in Catching Fire—the second film—he becomes allies with Katniss and Petta. Mockingjay Part 2 follows Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) and her allies during the rebellion against President Snow (Donald Sutherland) and the Capitol. Katniss has some familiar allies like Haymitch, Finnick and Plutarch.

As we left Mockingjay Part 1, Peeta, Johanna, and Annie had been taken hostage by the Capitol. In Part 2, Gale, Boggs and a few others have rescued Petta, Johanna, and Annie. Finnick and Annie get married and Prim becomes a doctor. Katniss, Gale, Boggs, Finnick, and Petta storm the Capitol along with the help of the rebels and District 13. The final chapter in the saga makes some changes from the book, but I think they changed it for the better.

Supergirl coming in October
Supergirl is here!

I have also been watching some of the TV shows that I heard about from Comic-Con. I’ve been watching Blindspot, The Player, and Supergirl. Blindspot follows the FBI team Kurt Weller, Reade, Zapata, Patterson, and Mayfair as they figure out Jane Doe’s (Jamie Alexander) tattoos to figure out a corrupt world. Jane has also lost her memory, making the mystery that much harder to solve. They had a neat episode where one Jane’s tattoos was shaped like a Petoskey stone and led them to Michigan to catch the bad guy.

The Player is about a corrupt Las Vegas where the House has recruited Alex Kane (Phillip Winchester) to help solve cases in and around Las Vegas with Wesley Snipes and Chastity Wakefield. I loved the show. Unfortunately the network has canceled it mid-season. They should have given it more time!

Supergirl is going strong. The network has gone ahead and said to keep going with a full season. It’s been exciting so far. It is different from Smallville, another of my favorite TV shows which follows a young Clark Kent/Superman. Supergirl sort of continues from that since she and Clark Kent are cousins. In her show, Supergirl played by Melissa Benoist, has had to save her sister from a plane crash. We do see some familiar names such as James Olsen and Lucy Lane. James Olsen, who was one of Clark Kent’s good friends, also becomes good friends with Kara Danvers/Supergirl. So far in the show we have met Maxwell Lord and Red Tornado.

First two rows: Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill. Bottom left: Gal Gadot, bottom center: Jesse Eisenberg, and bottom right: Amy Adams.
First two rows: Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill. Bottom left: Gal Gadot, bottom center: Jesse Eisenberg, and bottom right: Amy Adams.

Coming soon to theaters are Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Deadpool, Captian America: Civil War, The Huntsman: Winter’s War, Point Break, and Suicide Squad.

Don’t forget next week, December 18th, Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens comes to theaters. I already have my tickets. I have also read that fans are already lining up at the Chinese Theater in Los Angeles waiting for opening day.

Let’s have a little fun since Star Wars finally opens this next week. Let’s dive into some theories on the upcoming film. If you don’t want any theories… STOP READING NOW!

I have watched every trailer and every TV spot and read some of the different theories. One big theory is that Rey and Kylo Ren are the Solo twins. Another is that Luke has turned to the Dark Side. We know that Simon Pegg has a mysterious role, so be on the look out for that. Hopefully, no more Jar Jar Binks. And a possibility that a major character, possibly Chewbacca, might die. But I guess I’ll have to wait and see until next week.

I’ll see you at the movie, and signing off until next time, “May The Force Be With You.”

Katie works in the film industry as a camera operator and has worked on films like ‘All You Can Dream’, ‘Set Up’ and a TV show called ‘American Fallen Soldier.’ She loves helping WKTV with the Citizen Journalism team and working as a tech at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Katie loves working in the film industry and loves watching movies just as much!

Save Your Time Using MI-TIME

Area Education, Our Cities, , ,
A visit to the SoS is no longer a call for SOS!
A visit to the SoS is no longer a call for SOS!

“I can’t wait for my visit to the Secretary of State!” – Said no one, ever.

A visit to the Secretary of State is a mystery and a hassle. It’s impossible to know exactly how long the wait will be or what to expect upon arrival. A trip to renew a drivers’ license was seen as a burden with no sense of convenience… until the Secretary of State introduced MI-TIME back in February of 2014.

The popular “get-in-line-online” service was installed in the 10 busiest offices around the state starting in February 2014. The revolutionary service was added to eight more offices late this summer, boosting the number of users to 2 million. For the first time at Secretary of State offices, customers now can make appointments for transactions.

MI-Time Line“Customers love this service because it’s all about convenience,” stated Secretary of State Ruth Johnson. “You can sign up for an appointment online, by phone or from the office, and then go about your business until it’s almost your turn. The feedback has been tremendous.”

About that feedback, one happy customer took to social media to call MI-TIME Line, “The greatest idea, since the bottle opener, is the online wait-in-line function at the @MichSoS. 13 minutes and out the door.”

When you sign into MI-TIME Line, it estimates your wait time, and if you have a phone or texting capability, the system will call or text you when your turn is coming up. You can also ask for more time if you’re not ready to come into the office when alerted.

When a transaction must be made in person, such as first-time license application or a title transfer, you can save time by going to an office that offers the MI-TIME Line service. Customers can get in line online in Genesee, Ingham, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Macomb, Oakland and Wayne county.

You can find out specific MI-TIME Line locations here. If the service isn’t offered in your area, the Branch Office Locator will show you locations and hours of operation for nearby Secretary of State offices.

Furbulous Gift Ideas for Fluffy, Fido, Frisky and Finn (Frances too)

Holidays, Pets/Animals, Upcoming Events, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Deer in Headlights

By: Victoria Mullen

Cat eye glassesThere are tons of stories floating out there in the holiday ether proposing all manner of gift ideas for people. Tons. And we (oh, who am I kidding–I) almost wrote yet another such article. Key word: Almost. Because at the very last minute, we (er, I) remembered something important: Landfills are filled with crap. People have way too much crap. Yep, and if people want even more crap, people can get online or hit the malls to shop for more.stocking hat for cat petsmart People have THUMBS, dammit!

But there is a vast portion of our population that is often overlooked, yet far more deserving. What about Fluffy and Fido? Frisky or Finn? What about their holiday wishes? Who will speak up for them?

Who, indeed?

Furry family members are at our mercy. They can’t drive (with the exception of Toonces, and we all know how that turned out). They can’t use the computer (and if they could, you’d be rich and they’d be famous). That’s why, more than ever this season, it’s important for us to be good people and surprise our fluffy, fuzzy, feathered and finny little loved ones with something that will make them happy and lift their little spirits.

Here are only a few furbulous ideas. But first…

Full disclosure: My two boys, Bobby and Frankie helped me compile this list, but they can vouch for only one of these products. (If you can call not ‘stinking outside the box’ a form of vouching.)

World’s Best® Cat Litter
So what if this is the pet equivalent of giving your spouse a vacuum cleaner for Christmas? This stuff is awesome. My boys LOVE this product and so do I. It’s made from corn, soWorlds best cat litter petsmart first off, you don’t get that nasty clay dust whisping up your nostrils when you pour it into the box. Plus, it’s lightweight, clumps even better than clay, and virtually eliminates that special aroma emitted by the treasures your cat(s) insist(s) on leaving for your sifting pleasure. I always make a beeline for the red bag because it’s for multi-cat households. $17.49 to $29.99

Whisker City® Cat Bowl
Warning: If your cat is horrendously spoiled, this gift is a very bad idea. The first line of this product’s description is a tip-off: “Spoil your princess of a pet a little more with this designer, ceramic bowl.” Only $7.99, this bowl has “Princess” printed on the inside and sports a princess crown and rhinestone. Which is overkill, in my opinion, but some people are just that nutty about their cats. This bowl is intended only for cats, so don’t go gifting your 160-pound Rottweiler with this. You’ve been warned.Laurel Burch Carlotta Cat Bowl Pet smart

Laurel Burch Carlotta Cat Bowl
My mom has a cool collection of Laurel Burch cat prints and wooden cat figures, but she doesn’t have a cat. I have two cats, but they are manly and certainly would not be impressed by this bowl. But girl kitties will love this because it’s adorned with vibrant colors and an exclusive Laurel Burch design. I’m not going to say that your precious kitty deserves a bowl fit for a queen because I will not be a party to upping the ante on your cat’s snottiness. $8.99

 

Whisker City® Pet Holiday Christmas Tree Cat Hatxmas tree cat hat
I enjoy annoying my boys every chance I get, so when I saw this online, I decided that I have to get it. It’s festive and they say it’s lightweight and comfortable for a cat to wear. I don’t believe that for one minute because no matter how comfy and cozy this thing is touted to be, no self-respecting cat will ever be comfortable wearing this hat. I mean, look at it. It screams, “I look like an idiot!” and your cat will hate you for getting this. But will that stop me? No sirree. Caution: This item is intended to be used for a short duration, under close supervision. Fit should allow room for two fingers to fit between the item and the cat. Do not use as a restraint. $5.59 (Other styles available.)

All Living Things® Ferret Hammock
Isn’t this thing adorable? Ferrets and other little guys really love hammocks, and this one sure looks comfortable. At $7.99, it’s worth it, but a cautionary tale, if I may. I had three ferrets once, all of whom were sweet-tempered; all of whom were fun. One even smelled like a chicken enchilada. Poodha was my first, so she has a special place in my heart. But darn if that little stinker didn’t have a quirk: She liked to chew on fabric–especially my ex-husband’s underwear. Clean or not, Poodha was an equal-opportunity underweferret hammockar-eater.

I mention this because you really have to keep an eagle eye on your beloved mustelid–in fact, never let him or her out of your sight. Because although I was well aware that Poodha had a hankering for cotton underwear, I did not realize how dangerous this could be. I thought it was funny. Oh, it was funny all right. Right up until the day she went limp and lethargic, and I rushed her to the vet. He took a radiograph of Poodha’s tiny belly and found a blockage. This is dangerous in any animal or human, but in a creature as tiny as a ferret, things can go south in a hurry.

I am happy to say that Poodha survived the ordeal, and I was much more observant after that. My other two ferrets never did anything like that, and maybe yours won’t either, but just a heads up. Having said all that, it turns out that the distributor of this product has a similar warning. Instructions: Observe your pet’s behavior with this product for suitability. Some items may be inappropriate for your pet. Remove and replace the item if it becomes damaged. Caution: Ingestion of this product can result in serious injury. Hey, they’re not kidding. Maybe it’s because they want to keep calling their company ‘All LIVING Things.’

All Living Things® Pet Holiday Ugly Sweater (Small Animal)ugly sweater small animal petsmart
OMG! OMG! OMG! An ugly sweater for GUINEA PIGS!!!!! Be still, my heart. At $7.19, it’s an absolute must-get. This 100% polyester gift will lift the spirits of little Sparky for sure. Take photos and post on Facebook. Please. I would get a guinea pig specifically for this sweater, but that would be a very irresponsible thing to do. Caution: This item is intended to be used for a short duration, under close supervision. Do not use for more than a few hours at a time. Sizing should allow room for 2 fingers to fit between the item and the pet. Do not use as a restraint.

[Editor’s note: Although the writer was highly unprofessional in reporting this finding, we nonetheless published it as written because this thing is SO FREAKIN’ CUTE!]

 

crazy cat lady action figureCrazy Cat Lady Action Figure
Ummmmm. OK, so maybe this isn’t meant as a gift for your pet, but it’s related to cats, so I think it’s appropriate to include here (plus I’m the one writing this article, so there you have it). Chances are, you know a real-life cat lady, an enchanting, endearing, eccentric soul who makes the neighborhood lively and vibrant. If you don’t know a cat lady in person, here’s the next best thing. This gift is a great way of saying, “Here, take this, you crazy old bat!” Comes with six cute kitties. $17.49 It’s worth noting that the product description is a hoot, so be sure to check it out.

Stroller
The perfect pampering pram for your senior cat or dog up to 35 lbs. Strut your little pride and joy out in the fresh air–durable, breathable mesh provides visibility and airflow. Shock absorbers offer a smooth ride on any terrain (well, I’m sure there are exceptions) and locking brakes keep Fido or Fluffy safe from unintended rollbacks. $195, but your precious baby is worth it. Right?

Bird toyAll Living Things Knots & Blocks Bird Toy
Birds are smart. Really smart. They’re emotionally sensitive too. If their minds aren’t kept stimulated, they will go bat-shit crazy. I am not making this up. There is a PBS documentary called Parrot Confidential about birds in captivity who have been surrendered by their humans. It’s heartbreaking. These intelligent beings can live more than 70 years and may very well outlive their caretakers. Responsible bird caretakers know this about their feathered wards and do what they can to keep their minds active. This toy will help. $16.99

My Cat VideoCat Video Clapperboard
I’m in film, and my boys are always bugging me to make them Internet stars, going so far as to video-bomb my auditions. Sadly, casting directors have to date not been amused, and I’ve missed out on several high-profile opportunities. There are plenty of felines out there who aspire to be famous, too, so there is a real market for this item. It has the added attraction of offering the ability to write your cat’s name in chalk (although you’ll have to purchase the chalk elsewhere). My guess is that this item will soon sell out, so don’t wait. $4.99 And, no, I’m not getting my boys one of these. Heck, no, not after they’ve ruined my very promising–albeit budding–career.

Cat Mate Pet Fountain
My Frankie doesn’t drink nearly enough water, and I’m concerned about his kidneys so I’m getting him this for Christmas. What the heck, Bobby can use it, too. The makers of this fountain say that it’s exceptionally quiet “and maximizes the appeal of drinking by providing multi-height drinking levels with plenty of water movement to ensure naturally oxygenated, cool water throughout the day.” Whatever. If my cats will drink from it, I’ll call it good. Yes, for $49.99, I can–heck, will–feel better about my pets’ health, so much so that I may very well give myself a pat on the back for being a responsible pet caretaker. This is an important distinction, by the way: Pet people are not “owners”. One does not “own” a pet. (In case you haven’t noticed, property laws are evolving.) People merely have the privilege of caring for creatures who are far more deserving of love and kindness than we humans are.

princess bowlWhisker City® Paris Cat Bowl
The product description says that this bowl “allows your cat to feel like she’s dining at an exquisite diner in the middle of the most beautiful city – Paris! Your cat will purr, ‘oh la-la’ after eating out of such a delightful bowl.” First, I believe “rrrrrrrooh-la-la” is the correct interpurrtation. Now, I can tell you without hesitation that my guys don’t give a rat’s ass where they eat as long as there is food, and I’m fairly certain they wouldn’t be thinking of Paris if they were to eat out of this pleasingly pink bowl. More likely they’d be thinking–accompanied by an evil glare, mind you–“We’ll get you for this.” Which is why the copywriter was astute enough to use the word “she” in the product description. $6.99

Snorkel SantaTop Fin® Snorkel Santa Holiday Ornament
The product description says that this thing traveled all the way from the North Pole, but I don’t believe that for a second, nor should you. You could probably get Phineas F. Finn to believe it, but don’t be surprised if all you get are some bubbles in reply. $3.19 Be sure to rinse this thing in warm water before surprising Master Finn.

Egg-Cellent Dinosaur Erasers
For that special human on your list. These are cool. I wish someone would get me one of these, but my boys don’t have thumbs, so I’m s.o.l. on this one. But that doesn’t mean someone you know and love should be deprived of the joy of receiving this little stocking stuffer. It’s seriously clever and I wish I had thought of inventing it because I would be rich instead of living hand to mouth. Well, as long as the boys are fed, life is good. $2.99

Oh Deer! Hot Water Bottle
Another festive gift suitable for a human, this product’s description states, “It’s just fawning at the opportunity to get you nice and toasty warm!” Brilliant copywriting, if I do say so myself. I can see quite a few uses for this thing: To get your bed warm and ready for you as you turoh dear hot water bottle covern the thermostat down to 55 degrees to lower your electrical bill. Or to apply to a stiff, sore neck. Great for soothing menstrual cramps, too. (Just being honest here.) $12.99

Understand What Your Dog is Thinking Breath Spray
Clearly, I’m in the wrong business. Here’s how this one works: Spritz in your mouth (not Fido’s) and you’ll instantly find out what your dog really thinks of you. Think twice before using this: Not for the fainthearted or tragically sensitive. $6.99

Dog Hoodie
Bruno secretly covets one of these, and if you know what’s good for you, you will get him this hoodie. Made from soft cotton for a comfy, cozy fit because you sure as hell don’t want to set your dog off by making him wear something that annoys him. $19

squirrel underpants

Squirrel Underpants
It takes an awful lot to offend me, but I’ve had it up to here with naked squirrels. I’m frankly tired of seeing all those nuts. If I have to wear pants, then so should they. Each pair of these adorable little briefs measures 3″ around the waist and is crafted of 100% cotton. Hamsters, gerbils–you name it–if an exhibitionist rodent refuses to wear pants, you know what to get him or her. Do it for them. Do it for yourself. Just do it. $5.99

‘Deer in Headlights’ artwork by Victoria Mullen

 

Looking to Return a Techie Gift this Holiday? Make Sure to Clear Your Data!

Tech Trends, , , , , , , ,

returned tabletBy: Mark Hachman – MacWorld

The first tip that something wasn’t quite right about the open-box tablet I had purchased from Fry’s Electronics was that fact that Marvel Contest of Champions appeared on the home screen.

I had sought out the most run-down, crappiest tablet I could buy for our buying guide on productivity tablets, as an example of what not to buy during the holiday season. The Visual Land tablet I found for about $70 was two years old, with visible pixels and a loose power connector. I powered it up, just to ensure that it would work… and discovered that it was still keyed to someone else.

Almost as soon as the tablet connected to my local Wi-Fi, a notification popped up: “Account Action Required” for the user’s account, and that there was a corresponding sign-in error as well. The user had obviously changed his or her password after sending back the tablet, meaning that anyone who had purchased it (me) couldn’t access any critical personal information. Nor did I want to; I factory reset it, sending whatever personal information was stored on the tablet into oblivion.

Why this matters: Every digital device you own is a potential portal that someone can use to peer into your personal life: providing access to your email, social media, cloud storage, and other accounts. Yes, most of us have internalized some security practices: antivirus software is now a way of life, we advise friends and relatives not to click on suspicious email, and we usually know what to do if we lose a phone. But with all the rushing around we do these days, sometimes something as small as erasing a tablet falls through the cracks. And once you’ve returned a device to a store, it’s out of your hands.

Lessons to learn

The lesson to take away from all this, however, is not to do what the person who owned and then returned this tablet did. Yes, changing your password after you’ve returned a phone, tablet, or computer may lock out other prying eyes from accessing your account and other personal information. But if you downloaded email, photos, apps, or other data, any information stored locally will remain for anyone who wants to pore through your personal life.

So how do you ensure that your device is wiped clean of all data? Follow these steps. Just be sure that anything stored on the device is backed up to the cloud or elsewhere. Once the reset is performed, all the data on the device is gone forever.

Always make sure that you reset the device before returning or disposing of it.
Always make sure that you reset the device before returning or disposing of it.

Android:

Access the Settings menu, either by swiping down from the top of the screen and clicking the “gear” icon, or tapping the Settings icon directly. Scroll down to the “Backup and reset” option, and click. Play it safe and ensure the process completes before boxing up your return.

Note that this process should work for both phones and tablets alike.

iOS:

To reset an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, access the Settings menu, then select General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. If you were using the Find My iPhone option, the device will ask your for your iCloud password to turn it off.

Apple OS X:

Macworld has an excellent in-depth primer on how to go about securely erasing your drive.

Windows 8 or 8.1:

Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, tap Settings, and then tap Change PC settings. (If you’re using a mouse, point to the upper-right corner of the screen, move the mouse pointer down, click Settings, and then click Change PC settings.) Then select Update and Recovery, then Recovery. Then click Remove Everything and Reinstall Windows. You’ll also have an option to either quickly or thoroughly clean your data; if you’re the paranoid type, select “Thoroughly.”

Windows 10:

Go to the Settings menu, then Update & Security > Recovery > Reset This PC. Make sure you select the option to remove everything, including your personal files. (You probably don’t need to apply the “scorched earth” policy of overwriting the data on the drives, although if you’re actually going to dispose of the PC, it’s not a bad idea.)

Windows Phones:

Swipe to access the Settings Menu, then click “About.” You’ll see an option to reset your phone.

Some devices also provide the option of remotely wiping them, or erasing their data, either using the native OS or a third-party app. But it’s far more reassuring to perform the reset yourself, with the device in front of you.

Annual Music Festival at the Gerald R. Ford Airport Brings Santa Along

Holidays, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, Volunteers, , ,

santaThe Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is getting into the holiday spirit with a music festival, Irish dancers, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Santa will be passing out candy and listening to all the children’s Christmas wishes in the Airport’s Grand Hall from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, December 11. Photos with Santa are free, but the airport is requesting that guest bring in at least two non-perishable food items–or make a monetary donation–to Mel Trotter Ministries. Help spread the Christmas spirit throughout the area!

“The holiday season is an important time for the Mel Trotter Ministries Food Pantry,” said Abbey Sladick, Director of Community Relations at Mel Trotter Ministries. “The food donated will help sustain us throughout the year, and we are blessed to be able to partner with the airport to ensure many families in Grand Rapids will not go hungry.”

In addition to Santa’s appearance, and those helped through Mel Trotter, GFIA’s traditional Holiday Music Festival is running the week of December 7-11th. The 21st Annual Holiday Music Festival brings in elementary, middle, and high school choirs from around West Michigan to sing a variety of Christmas carols. Daily performances run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A total of 11 local choirs representing public, charter and private schools are set to sing 20 minute song sets throughout the day, putting passengers and guests at airport in the holiday spirit.

Mel Trotter“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 Executive Director Brian Ryks.  “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.”

In addition to the music festival & Santa’s visit, piano players and Irish dancers will also be making an appearance at the airport during the holiday season. The Ardan Academy of Irish Dance will be performing on Sunday, December 20th at the airport from 2-4 p.m.

All events are free and open to the public.

Brewery Vivant Ready to Celebrate Five Years

Beer, Local Business, Upcoming Events,

Brewery VivantDecember 20 marks the 5th year of Brewery Vivant’s Belgian and French inspired beers brewing in East Hills neighborhood of Grand Rapids. Five short years have yielded a number of things to celebrate for this progressive brewery and business. Vivant has become a nationally recognized leader in sustainability efforts, won several regional recognitions & awards, and is launching a large scale sour & wild series of beers.

On top of celebrating the anniversary, Brewery Vivant plans on raising funds for neighborhood elementary schools. The brewery will donate $5,000 back to the neighborhood, serving to impact the technology available to Congress Elementary. The brewery is encouraging neighboring businesses & mutual suppliers to join in the efforts to provide cutting edge technology to kids within the neighborhood. It’s all a part of Brewery Vivant’s business plan ethos of “business as a force for good.”

Brewery VivantNow, back to the beer, the brewery will release a wood-aged sour beer Anniversary Ale in its retail shop, a first for the Brewery as the beer will be offered in a 500ml glass bottle.

“We are launching our new sour beer program in glass bottles versus cans as higher CO2 volumes are part of this old-world style of wood aged beer.” Says owner and president, Jason Spaulding, “The bottle provides champagne bottle-like protection from brewing with these wild yeasts.”

Wonderful flavors can also be found in the Vivant kitchen. Voted 2015 Best European Restaurant by Grand Rapids Magazine, the kitchen is taking Belgian and French inspiration to create some creative and delicious dishes. Executive Chef Christopher Weimer leads his team to use the best ingredients to reap the best flavors. This starts with freshness, seasonality, and locality. Vivant is wrapping up the second growing season for the Vivant Garden, a plot of land approximately a mile away from the Pub that provides produce for the ever rotating weekend specials menu.

A new pilot brew system being commissioned, dubbed the “chef’s brewery”, will look to cross over many of these same ingredients & flavors to further explore how beer and food can be created to be natural partners.

The Pub will be open its usual hours from Noon-10pm on Sunday December 20th, pouring exclusive & limited beers, serving extra special & creative dishes, and all the while raising funds for the neighborhood’s elementary school.

“We see our business as vehicle to do good things within our community” says owner & sustainability director Kris Spaulding, “This partnership allows us to be integrated with the neighborhood in a deeper way than merely making beer (which is important too!). We get to make a broader impact on the future of our whole community through investing in our next generation of leaders.”

Wyoming’s Great Candy Cane Hunt

Holidays, Local Faces, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , , , , , ,

Candy Cane HuntThis Saturday, December 12, a multitude of children will find themselves waiting patiently at Pinery Park in hopes that Santa will arrive. However, instead of appearing on his sleigh pulled by reindeer, Santa will be coming in hot thanks to the Wyoming Fire Department!

After the spirited arrival, the real fun can begin with Santa leading the children on a Great Candy Cane Hunt throughout the park. Immediately following the hunt, the adventure continues as the group scampers across the street to the Wyoming Senior Center to play board games, color, eat lunch, and sit down with Santa to share their holiday wish list.

Candy CaneThis year, the Wyoming Senior Center will have some new “life-size” games for the everyone to enjoy. Enlarged Jenga pieces and giant Connect Four boards are sure to bring some extra magic to an event already beaming with it.

The Great Candy Cane Hunt is a timeless Wyoming tradition and a kick-off to the ensuing Christmas and Holiday seasons.

“I plan a lot of events, but this event is special,” exclaimed City of Wyoming Recreation Programmer Kenny Westrate. Westrate has planned the Great Candy Cane Hunt for the past eleven years. “You get to see the smiling faces of the kids during the hunt and when they see Santa. You get to see families playing board games and enjoying each other. You don’t always see that with other events, but it’s guaranteed every December.”

Come on out to Pinery Park this Saturday for a fun-filled day of laughs, smiles, family, and Santa!

Pre-registration is required. You can download a registration form here or you can register online.

Event details are below:

Date: Saturday, December 12
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Pinery Park for the hunt followed by lunch at the Wyoming Senior Center
Age: All ages
Cost: Ages 3-14 – $4 Resident, $6 Non-Resident (All others – $2)

Remember, the Great Candy Cane Hunt is outdoors, so dress accordingly!

Top 11 Other Christmas Classics That You Should Be Watching This Holiday Season

Citizen Journalism, Movie Review, , ,

brett_wiesenaurThe Christmas season is one steeped deeply in traditions. The tradition of decorations, traditions of assorted foodstuffs, and my favorite, holiday movies. Everyone knows the classics:

*Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life,

*A Christmas Story,

*Elf,

*Love Actually,

*Nat’l Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

And those are just five of the most popular choices. Every list tries to top the trending bars by listing the “Best Christmas Movies Ever”. Well, I’m here to try something different. Instead of shoving my opinion of the greatest holiday flicks, I am going to showcase the holiday movies most tend to forget about, with a couple of exceptions, just because. I hope to bring some entertainment and appreciation to these little-known classics that are certainly worth finding.

Christmas with Nick and Nora
Christmas with Nick and Nora

The Thin Man (1934)

First up is a noir caper from the early days of Hollywood, and also the film debut of the popular detective duo, Nick and Nora Charles. The film is the granddaddy of the murder mystery, with snappy dialogue, shadowy showdowns, and two of the classiest detectives this side of the pond. It also takes place during the holiday season, opening with Nora going Christmas shopping for her girlfriends, and ending just after New Years at a dinner party with all the suspects invited to be wined and dined by the witty couple. But that still dictates a Christmas morning scene that remains one of the most dryly funny interactions between a couple on such a day that was ever put on celluloid.

xBw

 

 

The Bishop’s Wife (1947)

Cary Grant, Loretta Young, and the unflappable David Niven star in this delight of a romantic comedy from the 40s. A down-on-his-luck bishop (David Niven) is trying to raise funds for a new cathedral and decides to pray for guidance, expecting a sign. Instead, he is surprised to find he has an unexpected guest, a suave angel named Dudley (Cary Grant). Dudley professes to know exactly what to do in the poor bishop’s situation, and then sets off to woo the Bishop’s wife, who has been almost abandoned in her husband’s obsessive quest for monies. I know what it sounds like, but you have to watch the movie. It’s actually quite heartwarming, and funny, too! This is a very popular treat among classic movie lovers who have outgrown the typical NBC broadcast fare and wish to explore other Christmas classics from Hollywood’s Golden Age.

 

Three Unlikely Angels: Bogey, Peter, and Aldo

We’re No Angels (1955)

A seldom mentioned dark comedy from 1955, the film We’re No Angels deals with 3 convicts who escape from jail with only their wits, the clothes on their back, and their pet snake Adolphe in tow. Determined to escape Devil’s Island and make their way to a far-away paradise, they hole up in a local shop run by a much-beleaguered family who give supplies on credit. Initially intent on knocking over the joint and skedaddling, the three ex-cons grow fond of the family and decide to help them in regards to their visiting villainous store owner (Basil Rathbone, the original screen Sherlock Holmes) and his equally duplicitous nephew who plan on ruining the store so as to take it over and ensure a bigger profit margin. The three “angels”, played by Humphrey Bogart, Peter Ustinov, and Aldo Ray, are a delight as characters that operate more like a military unit, with quality repartee between the three of them in regards to properly demonstrating the customer is not always right and how to cook a grand Christmas turkey, after stealing the money to buy it first, of course. Best of all, the snake prominently features in the film, but is never really onscreen for those squeamish of the slithering reptiles. I would know, since my mom loves this movie, and absolutely hates snakes.

Santa Claus (1959)

xMst3k
SANTA vs SATAN

Somebody stop me! No seriously, this particular entry might be dangerous if not viewed under the right conditions. This Mexican production of the Santa Claus myth takes a go-for-broke approach in terms of creativity. Here, Santa Claus lives in space, having…erm…adopted various kids of all cultures into his workforce in place of unionized elves and teamed up with Merlin the Magician to ensure Christmas goes well for the children of the earth. However, (this is where I lose people) Satan sends his underling Pitch to force children to do bad and make Santa’s Christmas delivery most difficult, including breaking store windows and promoting theft to get the gifts they want. Imagine if David Lynch made a Christmas movie…for children. That’s sort of what you’re in for with the proto-NSA technology Santa uses to keep an eye on Earth’s child population as well as the strange life-size doll interpretive dance nightmare sequence and don’t forget the terrifying wind-up toy reindeer, whose laughter will stain your thoughts for the rest of time, that Santa uses to fly across the world. This gem was featured on the cult comedy series Mystery Science Theater 3000 so you should know what you’re in for. Watch at your own weird risk.

Tropical Nativities are the Best Nativities
Christmas with The Duke and Co.

Donovan’s Reef (1963)

John Ford directs The Duke and Lee Marvin in this glorious vacation home movie masquerading as a tropical buddy comedy. Before you look at the poster and yell at me, “What does John Wayne and John Ford on a Polynesian island have to do with Christmas?”, two words: Christmas pageant. The film takes place during the month of December, as a brief scene in Boston alludes to how the majority of the world experiences the holiday season. About two-thirds the way into the film, the entire cast sits down to view a Polynesian Nativity story complete with appropriated wise men and updated gifts for the wee Son of G-D. Even the sudden cloudburst of rain can’t bring down the show, even though it kinda does, for the characters. There’s plenty of shenanigans and post-war humor that makes this movie a classic that deserves a better reputation, though it has its share of fans across various communities. It also functions as a good anti-bigotry tale that eventually crosses into the Christmas spirit.

DIE HARD + Die Harder

dh

I know, I know. Every man’s man whom you ask about Christmas traditions immediately spouts, “DIE HARD! Greatest Christmas Movie, Ever!” While I slightly disagree on the term greatest, I cannot deny that DIE HARD is both a great action movie, and it does take place on Christmas…so it’s a great Christmas movie. But, also worth mentioning is the sequel, directed by Renny Harlin, who will direct another flick on this list. While not quite as fresh and overall inspired as the initial film, this film does continue to showcase the action talents of Bruce Willis and his supporting cast, including William Sadler, Dennis Franz, and the original Django, Franco Nero. Two quality Christmas actioners that take no prisoners, count me in!

xnp90The Nutcracker Prince (1990)

While not the best Nutcracker adaptation by a long shot, this particular version, released in the early 90s by a tiny Canadian animation studio that didn’t quite survive into the millennium, holds a dear place in my heart as it reminds me of my childhood days when I would get up before the parents on cold December weekend mornings, huddle close to the fireplace and turn on Cartoon Network’s Cartoon Theatre to spend some time catching up on the delights of animated classics like Balto, various Looney Tunes and Tom and Jerry movies, and Race for Your Life Charlie Brown. This particular classic was a retelling of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet, via The Princess Bride. It’s got a decent cast at it’s head, Kiefer Sutherland as the Prince, Peter O’Toole makes a cameo as the lead soldier general, and Phyllis Diller plays her usual shrill self as the mother of the Mouse King. It’s not a maligned masterwork, but it entertained me in younger times, perhaps some of that charm is still present…?

 

The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)xkiss

Oh, the 90s! Renny Harlin, of Die Harder fame, gives the world another holiday season-set action film, this time not starring the ever-receding hairline of Bruce Willis, but a super sensual and cold-as-ice Geena Davis. Davis plays Samantha Caine, a small-town housewife and local celebrity who was previously an assassin for the CIA, unbeknownst to her and her family until a concussion brings to light her skills with cutlery and crack shot skills. Shortly after, a busload of goons decide its time to wipe her and her associates off the map, prompting her and her private investigator buddy Mitch, played by the always-entertaining Samuel L. Jackson, to clear the playing field, unlocking her latent abilities, and saving the world from shady chemical weapons dealers by shooting them mercilessly. It’s a tad bit vulgar and toes the line between blunt-force trauma thriller and buddy comedy, but it’s still a very fun ride to go on.

xHomeI’ll Be Home for Christmas (1998)

Another favorite of mine from years ago that begs a revisit. Back in the days of yore when Jonathan Taylor Thomas was relevant and riding the wave of post-Home Improvement popularity that could be argued to have proven his undoing, Disney released this little gem concerning a college boy who has to hitchhike across the United States in a Santa Claus outfit after a juvenile prank gets out of hand. His goal is twofold: I- Win back his disenfranchised girlfriend (Jessica Biel, post-Seventh Heaven) before his arrogant rival scoops her for himself, and II- Get to his New York State home before Christmas dinner so he inherits his father’s vintage Porsche. Along the way he has to deal with bratty children, disgruntled bus drivers, and the wrath of his frat boy rival. A genuine little family film teaching the wrongs of arrogance and the fruits of perseverance in a comic fashion.

Tokyo Godfathers (2003)

The typical audience reaction to most Satoshi Kon movies.
The typical audience reaction to most Satoshi Kon movies.

The late Japanese animation legend Satoshi Kon spent his career building stories that got under viewers’ skin while introducing concepts of humanity and imagination that stick with you after the story has ended. Of his oeuvre, this film, his second-to-last, is the most inviting and least disturbing feature, being an off-beat Christmas tale that concerns three homeless vagrants, each with a tragicomic backstory that tugs at your heartstrings and your sense of humor, who discover a newborn baby wrapped in swaddling clothes in a trash can. Determined to find out the babe’s origins and return him to his parents, they set off across Tokyo in search of answers, and maybe a hand-out along the way. Imagine The Hangover crossed with Adventures in Babysitting and toss in a little Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and you have a rough idea of what kind of journey you have in store when you watch Tokyo Godfathers. I am unashamed to admit that I was so struck with this movie’s heart and zany tragicomedy that it is now one of my cherished holiday traditions. Check this one out!


xCarolCAROL (2015)

This is currently in limited release across the country, and from what I hear, a big Oscar(tm) contender. Based on a story by Ripley mastermind Patricia Highsmith, Rooney Mara stars as a young 1950s-era department store clerk who falls for an older woman, the sumptuous and charismatic Carol (Cate Blanchette). That’s the gist of the plot that I dare to give away. More than likely the prettiest movie released this holiday season, the film promises luscious photography and a tumultuous romance between 2 of the loveliest people working in the movies currently. My contacts in the industry centers tell me this is The Movie to see this Oscar season. I can’t wait!

 

I hope to have inspired some newfound Christmas spirit in time for the approaching flurry of festivities. Peace, Love, and Happy Viewing to all.

Drive-Thru Santa from the Comfort of your Car

Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

Drive-Thru SantaTechnology makes everyday life go faster. Automobiles and airplanes allow us to travel much quicker than horses and boats, the internet keeps us up to date on daily events at the drop of a hat, and cell phones allow communication to flow quickly and effortlessly. The need for speed creeps into all aspects of everyday life, including visiting Santa.

Wait a minute, visiting Santa?

Here comes Drive-Thru Santa Claus, an event put on by the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department. Visitors have the opportunity to drive to the “North Pole” and get a picture taken with Santa from the comfort of their own car! From there you can talk to Santa, take a selfie, and then drive safely out of the lot and on your merry way.

A new tradition bound to make a quick, effortless, and unique Christmas experience.

If the idea of a Drive-Thru Santa piques your interest, make sure to stop by the Kentwood Activities Center from 6-8pm on Friday, December 11. The cost is $3 per car, cash only, and the last car will be admitted at 7:45pm.

Santa takes time out of his busy day to fly his sleigh to your house on Christmas, the least you can do is drive your car to see him. Make sure to bring your selfie stick!

Experiencing History in West Michigan

Area Education, Local Entertainment, Local History, Recreation, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
USSSilversides
USS Silversides

West Michigan is full of rich, vibrant history, and many opportunities to get out and experience it. Experiencing history, rather than simply reading it out of a textbook, provides a far richer understanding of the people, places, and experiences of the area. We’ve collected some of our favorite ways for you to experience the varied history of the region, from living history parks to visiting the seat of Michigan’s only monarchy to tasting ice cream from a 120 year old company.

USS Silversides Submarine Museum

Tour a restored WWII Submarine, a Prohibition-Era Coast Guard Cutter and the Naval Museum at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum in Muskegon. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience what it was really like to sail a sub trolling the waters of the South Pacific 60-plus years ago. Named for a small fish of the same name, the Silversides once slid beneath the surface of some of the most dangerous waters in the world.  You can walk the deck topside as well as the major internal compartments below deck.  Keep an eye on their calendar for special lectures, classes and performances, too!

LakeshoreMuseumCenterLakeshore Museum Center

The Lakeshore Museum Center is a fun and fascinating museum which preserves and interprets through exhibits, education, and programs the natural and cultural history of Muskegon County. Take a 400 million year journey that explores the prehistoric plants and animals of Michigan’s past, or get pulled into the Science Center where everyone can learn about simple science through hands-on activities. Some of their permanent exhibits include, “Coming to the Lakes” featuring a life-sized mastodon, fur trader’s cabin and tools used during the lumbering era! The “Habitats Gallery” tells of native plants and animals.

Coopersville Historical Society Museum

Coopersville Historical SocietyHighlights of the Coopersville Area Historical Society Museum include extensive railroad and interurban train displays, a sawmill exhibit circled by a model railroad running through logging territory, an early schoolroom, household furnishings and business displays, among which is an extensive recreation of an early local drugstore. Also featured is the Del Shannon monument and exhibit which commemorate the life and career of Coopersville’s native son who gained international fame in the 1960’s as a recording artist and songwriter. A Lincoln log activity area, along with other exhibits, is popular with younger visitors. The Museum’s collections are enhanced by the quaint and nostalgic atmosphere of its two buildings.

The main museum building is a Michigan Historic Site and on the National Register of Historic Places. The charming brick structure was once a depot and substation for the area’s electric powered interurban rail line, the Grand Rapids, Grand Haven & Muskegon Railway, which ran from 1902-28. A rare passenger car from the railway, Car #8 – Merlin, sits beside the building where it once made many daily stops. The car is undergoing stages of restoration. Adjoining the former depot is the rustically designed Sawmill & Early Settlers Building which houses exhibits reminiscent of early settlement days.

Grand Traverse Lighthouse

Grand Traverse LighthouseLocated at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula near the village of Northport, the Grand Traverse Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes, and guided ships through the northern entrance to the Manitou Passage for 150 years. Today it is a museum surrounded by a picturesque state park where visitors can envision the once-isolated life of lighthouse keepers and their families, with extensive exhibits and period furnishings from the 1920s and 1930s. Its popular “volunteer lighthouse keeper” program provides an opportunity to live in the lighthouse, carrying on routine maintenance and answering the questions of its frequent visitors.

Castle Farms

Castle FarmsTreat your family to nearly 100 years of history at Castle Farms of Charlevoix. Inspired by French castles, Castle Farms was built in 1918 as a model farm. Closed in 1927, the beautiful stone buildings fell into disrepair. In later years, the Castle served as an artist’s mecca, and also rock n’roll central, with performances by 100 different rock groups. A restoration begun in 2001 completed the Castle’s transformation. Tours include viewing displays of antique toys, castles, royalty items, and WWI museum. Train buffs and kids of all ages will love the indoor train displays. Open year round, Castle Farms is a spectacular piece of Michigan history to explore.

Hudsonville Ice CreamHudsonville Creamery & Ice Cream

Started in 1895 as a farmers’ cooperative, the Holland-based Hudsonville Creamery & Ice Cream is the largest manufacturer of branded ice cream in Michigan. Nearly 90 years ago, in 1926, the company was located in Burnips—in north-central Allegan County. Four of the six original flavors remain in the company’s portfolio: vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and butter pecan (orange pineapple and Tootie Fruitie since been discontinued).

Today, this Midwest company has been producing its creamy, delicious ice cream – using many of its original flavors, while at the same time creating refreshing new recipes inspired by the Great Lakes. A recent partnership with Travel Michigan and the Pure Michigan brand has resulted in a plethora of flavors that give a nod to the agricultural industry here in the Great Lakes State. Current Limited Edition Flavors include Pumpkin Pie, Pure Michigan Salted Caramel Apple and Pure Michigan Winter Campfire. Year-round offerings such as Sleeping Bear Dunes Bear Hug, Mackinac Island Fudge, Grand Traverse Bay Cherry Fudge and Michigan Deer Traxx, among others.

Others:

Get your history fix with a visit to the below locations to experience a step back in time.

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, Grand Rapids
Gerber Guest House, Fremont
Harbor Springs Area Historical Society
Historic White Pine Village, Ludington
Historical Association of South Haven
Holland Museum, Holland
Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum, South Haven
Michigan Maritime Museum, South Haven
Michigan Flywheelers Museum, South Haven
Music House Museum, Acme
Point Betsie Lighthouse, Frankfort
Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, Ludington
Silver Beach Carousel, St. Joseph
USS LST 393, Muskegon

Seize the Day During Ugly Sweater Season!

Editorial, Holidays, How-To's, Upcoming Events, , ,

Ugly SweaterBy: Mike DeWitt

December is finally here and soon we will be swept into a swirling snow globe of love, laughter, family, and magic. This is the month where all of those traits culminate in the greatest get-together that planet Earth offers us: ugly sweater parties. ’Tis the season indeed!

Ugly sweaters are a paradox: the uglier they are, the more beautiful they become. There is really no such thing as an “ugly” sweater this time of year. The more neutral and seemingly normal your sweater is, the less attention you will receive. Not receiving attention at an ugly sweater party is just un-American.

If you want to be the beautiful swan at the party, make sure you’re willing to go all in. Fortune favors the bold.

If you’re worried about where your sweater currently resides in relation to what else the world has to offer, let me introduce you to the Ugly Sweater Spectrum (USS). The USS is on an easy-to-follow 10-point scale ranging from -5 to 5. A score that approaches the fringe on either end of the spectrum is more desired. Remember, with an ugly sweater party you need something that stands out and says “look at me!” That can be acquired through something truly awful or ingeniously crafted. On both ends of the spectrum, it’s a perfectly crafted cocktail of both.

Let’s take a dive into the collage and barrage of color and Christmas:

5-USSUSS Scale: 5

Who needs a sweater when you can have a suit?

This is cool. You are cool, and don’t you dare let anyone else tell you otherwise. When it comes to ugly sweaters, you’re all in. A trip to Goodwill wasn’t enough. No, you needed a full suit and a matching tie to boot.

Yes, the suit is ugly, but yet it emanates cool from its very core. Like that guy in college who you KNOW spent hours perfectly crafting his messy hair. Is it perfect, or is it a mess? It’s perfectly messed up, and it’s the style of greatness all of us mortals wish we could achieve.

This suit makes you the focus of every person at the party. Instagram was made specifically for you in this suit. Enjoy the moment, it’s all downhill from here.

4-USSUSS Scale: 4

Remember, an ugly sweater party isn’t solely about being ugly, it’s about standing out. This sweater is inherently unique in its take on Christmas. First off, cats aren’t the first thing that comes to your mind when you think “Santa” and “North Pole”, yet here we have a cat as the main character on a gorgeous light blue backdrop we call a sweater.

Not only is it a cat, but it’s an evil cat SHOOTING LASER BEAMS OUT OF ITS EYES AND DESTROYING THE NORTH POLE! The elf running away in horror is just icing on the cake as the North Pole goes up in flames behind him. This isn’t ugly. This is genius. This is a sweater you’d wear at least a handful of times during the Christmas season. The colors  are simple and work together seamlessly to make it easy on the eyes. It’s a work of art, and showing up to a party wearing this sweater instantly makes you a hit no matter the audience.

 

2-USSUSS Scale: 3

Will Smith is one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars and has been around for what seems like an eternity. While Will Smith in his current state is a credible and immensely successful actor, nothing quite touches on cool like young Will Smith.

The ’90s Will Smith was royalty. The man was a Prince for goodness sake! Bel-Air became a monarchy simply because he decided to show up. Throw in retro phones and cassettes littering the background, and this sweater is a winner no matter what the time of year. The only thing making this a Christmas-themed sweater and not everyday attire is the Santa hat.

3-USSUSS Scale: 2

A 2 on the scale is right at that threshold of standing out and falling back into the abyss. Five years ago this sweater wouldn’t even be in the conversation. Five years from now it might fall back to the wayside because that’s the way pop culture goes. But right now, this sweater has power because Game of Thrones has a stronger touch than Midas.

Is the sweater ugly? No. Is it particularly cool? No, but Game of Thrones goes a long way. Trust me.

There is irony in wearing this sweater as winter is already here. Because of that, those who don’t know Game of Thrones might get a slight chuckle. However, those who are in the loop will be filled with instant envy that they didn’t find the sweater first. You will be asked no fewer than 15 times where you bought said sweater. Honestly, just purchase a handful of them and bring them to the party with you. They’ll sell and you’ll walk home with some extra cash.

2-USSUSS Scale: 1

College apparel can never be ugly. A college campus is the one place you can dress as crazy as you like, and as long as it’s school colors it will be deemed “school spirit.” Both of these sweaters could be worn to football games. Now that I think about it, I’ve seen both of these worn at football games!

The sweaters are unique enough because they are more of a novelty than anything. They sway towards the cool side because school spirit is always cool on game day. However, don’t expect to turn any heads or make many waves at your ugly sweater party wearing one of these. The best you can hope for is a “Go Blue” or “Go Green, Go White”, and that’s not a bad consolation prize.

1-USSUSS Scale: 0

This is not an ugly sweater, nor is it particularly cool or interesting. This sweater screams, “I bought this for one reason, and it was solely to have a sweater to wear to this party.” You thought, maybe this sweater is ugly enough, but you toed too close to the line of normality to make any true statement with your attire.

This sweater can be worn once a year, yet it is not memorable. You and your attempt to be ugly and cute will be easily forgotten. Better luck next year.

2-USSUSS Scale: -1

Diving into the negative numbers, especially towards the end of the spectrum, signals a dive for the worst. These sweaters don’t fit the typical definition of cool or hip. These sweaters are going to make you the Belle of the Ball the crazier they become, but if you swing for the fences and miss, prepare for a long evening. Creativity is appreciated.

Scoring a 1 or a -1 is weak. It shows a lack of risk and confidence in yourself. Standing out isn’t important, you’d rather slink into the shadows. This sweater is ugly because there is too much going on, it’s really that simple. What makes this choice even worse is it’s a sweater that was probably purchased for $40 simply to wear to an ugly sweater party. Buying an ugly sweater because it’s aware that its ugly is bad form. Don’t show up giving 50 percent.

-2-USSUSS Scale: -2

This is why ugly sweater parties were created! This right here is a work of art. It is a sweater with no attempt at being ugly. In fact, it was probably purchased as a nice, thoughtful gift. It’s not as crazy as some of the sweaters coming up next, but it’s an original. It’s like watching grainy videos of the first Super Bowl. Was the product as good as it is now? Of course not, but without it there is no foundation to build on. Sweaters like this set the stage for our annual ugly sweater parties. It’s a classic.

-3-USSUSS Scale: -3

We have finally reached the section where truly being ugly can only be captured with imagination and creativity. You can’t buy this kind of awful in a store, it can only be created with hard work and desire.

One second you notice the tinsel and ornaments hanging off a forest green sweater, and then the sweater magically transforms into a Christmas tree with a star on top! Sheer genius! A sweater like this, while beautiful in its own right, cannot be placed on the positive end of the spectrum because it can only be used once. A perfectly good forest green sweater was sacrificed in order to create this tinsel tree of holiday perfection.

Bonus points for creating an ugly piece of clothing while staying within the spectrum of cute. That is flawless execution. Bravo!

-4-USSUSS Scale: -4

Welcome to the deep end. Make sure to dive in headfirst.

This young lady decided a sweater wasn’t enough to satisfy her style. No, a full dress was needed to truly incorporate all of the awful she could get her hands on.

Where do you even start? The long sleeves throw off the feel of a dress that is already riding above the knee. That sweater-dress is odd enough without the add-ons that it could probably win some awards as a standalone. Throw in Psy from Gangnam Style sporting a Santa outfit and the design takes a turn for the worst. The Santa and snowflakes are so distracting that it takes a minute to register that there is no hint of pattern used to spell “Gangnam Style.” Four colors were chosen (red, white, blue, and green) and placed onto the sweater-dress with no rhyme or reason. For all the work put into this, it comes across as a serious oversight.

This sweater-dress is mission accomplished at an ugly sweater party. You will never be forgotten.

-5-USSUSS Scale: -5

We have reached the opposite end of the spectrum to find the greatest holiday sweater of all time. This is USS Hall-of-Fame worthy. You may look at this and think, “He didn’t have a good idea so he just cut a sweater and things fell into place”, but you would be dead wrong. More planning went into the making of this piece of art than went into the Sistine Chapel.

The face of Rudolph had to be perfectly groomed so it was on scale with the nose, eyes, and antlers. But before the grooming could begin, the entire plan had to be mapped out around the nose. Something like that doesn’t fall into place. Extensive man hours were needed to pull off that feat.

While your eyes are naturally drawn to the beautiful red-nosed Rudolph–don’t be ashamed, beautiful works of art are meant to be enjoyed–the perfect cut in the sweater is equally impressive. The sweater has been modified to reveal enough skin to show off Rudolph while also keeping every unnecessary inch of the body kept under wraps. Take a quick glance at the arm sleeve on the right arm. Like men lost at sea eating every part of the fish they catch, this man has wasted no part of the sweater that didn’t need to be.

You, sir, are an American hero and will never be forgotten. Merry Christmas to you!

Stocking stuffers from the Mitten State

Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Our Cities, , , ,

Michigan Bottle Opener

Since the early 1800s, families have hung stockings from the mantel on Christmas Eve in anticipation of a visit from St. Nicholas. As you plan for this year’s holiday season, look to the Mitten State for unique and inexpensive stocking stuffers for everyone in the family.

HER

Glass ActionDress up any outfit with a handcrafted, Michigan-shaped piece of jewelry from Ferndale-based Glass Action, found at Little Luxuries on Mackinac Island or Posey in Royal Oak. A series of celebrity-inspired nightlights, as well as personalized custom pieces, are also available online.

Pampering never felt so good as with Bizzy Fizz bath and body products, handmade in Macomb. Choose from body scrubs, oils, lotions and lip balms in a variety of shapes, textures, colors and fragrances. Find a selection of options at Celtic Sisters in New Buffalo and the Made in Michigan store at Boyne Mountain Resort, Boyne Falls.

Grocer’s Daughter in Empire creates mouth-watering chocolates including truffles, caramels, bonbons, bark, bars and puddles. Vegan and gluten-free options also are available. Shop online or at finer retail outlets around the state including Detroit Mercantile Co. and Food Dance in Kalamazoo.

HIM

MI Bottle OpenerNever be left without an opener for your favorite craft beer or soda. The Michigan-shaped bottle openers (both Upper or Lower Peninsula shapes) from Kalamazoo-based Michigan Bottle Opener are so thin they fit in your wallet. Find them online or at Essence on Main in Clarkston and NorthGoods in Petoskey.

Pick up a tin of Beard Balm made with ingredients like beeswax, lanolin, grapeseed oil and eucalyptus oil to help men keep a full beer smooth and fragrant. Developed in Detroit’s revitalized Corktown District, these products are available at Rail & Anchor in Royal Oak or Taylor & Colt in Birmingham, as well as online.

Start a new trend in 2016 by sending handwritten notes on the stylish monogrammed cards from Detroit-based Shinola. The 5.5-by-8.5 cards come in a packet of five with envelopes. Shop online or stop into one of the three locations in southeast Michigan.

THE KIDS

Goodnight Michigan“Good Night Michigan” is a mini-book by Adam Gamble, with illustrations by Anne Rosen. It features notable locales throughout the state, including Sleeping Bear Dunes, Tahquamenon Falls, Detroit, St. Joseph and many others. Find it at bookstores around the state, as well as the gift shop at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids.

Keep the kids warm and stylish with a cap from Dearborn-based Carhartt. The girls pink Trapper Hat and boys duck yellow Bubba Hat are sherpa lined and have a hook-and-loop chin strap closure.

Rebuild a tradition with handmade wooden blocks from Uncle Goose in Grand Rapids. You’ll find nostalgic gifts to entertain kids and parents alike, from classic alphabet blocks in dozens of languages to nursery rhyme blocks, as well as pull wagons to canvas bags. Find them at dozens of locations across the state.

FOUR-LEGGED KIDS

Dress up your dog’s appearance with a colorful Michigan Paw Bandana from Pup North. Shop online or stop by My Secret Stash or Suhm-Thing in downtown Traverse City. Then, pop into the D.O.G. Bakery (dogbakeryonline.com) just down the road for a four-pack of mitten-shaped Iced Cherry Chews for your pooch’s snacking enjoyment.

Keep your cat entertained with a catnip toy from Lake Orion-based Fat Pyewacket. The best parts of organic catnip, minus fillers, are stuffed into natural cotton sacks reinforced for hours of kitty play. Pick up these toys at The Pet Beastro in Madison Heights or Pets ‘n Things in Saline.

THE FOODIE

Cookie CutterMI Blue WinterHandcrafted kitchen utensils from Loon Hardwoods in Dorr make the perfect gift for the chef on your list. Select from a cheese slicer, strainer, spatula, recipe box or utensil holder, all made from maple and finished with Tung oil for a beautiful luster. Look for items at Calico Cat in Grand Haven or Old Town General Store in Lansing.

A Michigan-shaped cookie cutter makes for lots of family fun throughout the winter months. Find both the upper and lower peninsulas at stores around the state, including Heart of Michigan in Howell or The Zany Kitchen in Cheboygan or online at puremichiganstore.org.

Of course, a subscription to Michigan BLUE Magazine also makes a fine Christmas gift!

This article was republished with permission from Dianna at Promote Michigan. We do our best to help with the promotion of the great State of Michigan!

Editors note: Article was reprinted from the winter 2015 issue of Michigan BLUE Magazine.

High School Basketball and Hockey on WKTV

Sports, WKTV Projects, , ,

WKTV New Truck 007WKTV 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 @ 10:30pm throughout the Grand Rapids Metro Area & repeat on Wednesday @ 5:00pm 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 @ 10:30pm and repeat Saturday @ 11:00am on WKTV 25 and AT&T U-verse 99. WKTV has got you covered! Check out the December schedule below:

Friday, December 4        Hockey:  EGR @ East Kentwood
Tuesday, December 8      Boys Basketball:  Wyoming @ South Christian
Friday, December 11        Hockey:   Kenowa Hills @ East Kentood
Tuesday, December 15     Girls Basketball:   Byron Center @ Wyoming
Friday, December 18        Boys/Girls Basketball:   Potter’s House @ Lee
Tuesday, December 22      Boys Basketball:   Lowell @ Godwin Heights
Tuesday, December 29      Boys Basketball:   Rockford vs Godwin Heights

Studying the Sky in Night School

Area Education, Education, , , , ,
Students studied stars, planets and meteors
Students studied stars, planets and meteors

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

The clouds cleared enough to see Venus and Jupiter during Night School at Endeavor Elementary on a recent Tuesday.

About 300 first- through fifth-grade students stayed up all night, from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., to watch the wonders of the night sky, study astronomy and participate in star- and planet-themed activities tied to all subjects. “We learned about the planets and the solar system,” said fourth-grader Diego Saldivar.

“The fun thing is being able to stay up until 6 in the morning,” added fourth-grader Luke Elyea. “I drank three cups of hot chocolate.”

Night School, started in 1999 by fourth-grade teacher Susan Stapleton, is held every four or five years to make sure all students have a chance to experience the event during their years at Endeavor.

It takes place during the Leonid meteor shower, which peaked November 18 this year.

School News Network
Tired students got some sleep, but most stayed up all night long

Stapleton grew up in Ludington, where she saw the Northern Lights and many starry nights. Stapleton started Night School because she wanted her students to see twinkling stars, streaking meteors and glowing planets.
“If it even makes them aware of the night sky, we’ve gained something,” she said. “So many of us never look up.”

Hundreds of volunteers worked two-hour shifts during Night School. Students went out to look at the sky, which was too cloudy for much viewing.

A volunteer from James C. Veen Observatory, in Lowell, provided information on planets and constellations,
Students painted Northern Lights with oil pastels; made constellation telescopes, studied constellations in a blow-up planetarium, and played games like Meteor Math.

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Repeal Day 2015: Time to Party Like It’s 1933!

Education, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Local History, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

prohibition-drinkers1
By Victoria Mullen

This year marks the 82nd anniversary of Repeal Day. Can you imagine going 13 years without a legal drop of alcohol? I don’t know anybody who can. Well, wait. I can. But I’m a lightweight and also a wet blanket, so you won’t see me getting invited to many parties. Which is why I live with cats.

From 1920, the start of Prohibition, to 1933 when Amendment XXI was ratified (to repeal Amendment XVIII), Americans either had to abstain or become very creative. Creativity ruled. But why Prohibition in the first place? There are a few theories floating around as to why Prohibition was instituted (one of which has to do with nefarious oil dude, John D. Rockefeller, but I leave that for you to explore here).

As Amendment XVIII went into effect on January 17, 1920, Americans could no longer manufacture, sell, or transport intoxicating beverages. Picture this: One day, you’re having a beer with your friends, and the ver51TvOJA4L4Ly next day–poof!–you’re no longer allowed to consume alcohol. What a blow to the American psyche it must have been when Prohibition became part of the Constitution, holding the same status as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the abolition of slavery.

Maybe some people alive today remember Prohibition, but I sure don’t. Still, you can get a taste of that era at American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition, a world exhibition created by the National Constitution Center. At the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) now through January 17, 2016, this exhibition explores the tumultuous years of 1920 to 1933, and why the country went dry in the first place. Prohibition’s advocates said that they wanted to improve the nation’s moral and physical health, and in some ways they succeeded. But the nation also endured a huge rise in corruption, crime and cynicism. By the time Prohibition ended with the ratification of Amendment XXI in 1933, America had become a very different country. Personally, I don’t think the collective psyche ever recovered.

But let’s not worry about that right now. The whole idea here is to have fun and celebrate. There are plenty of engaging community and educational programs to round out the exhibition, so go here to find out what’s happening. The GRPM is hosting special Repeal Day activities: For example, you’ll get to meet the characters who were important in passing the first and only amendment to repeal another amendment ever. (Uh, never say “ever.”) Adults and children are invited to join in on some hands-on activities in the Museum’s Galleria to learn about this “milestone” in our country’s history.

Repeal is a huge deal, folks, so huge that other venues are joining in the celebration. That includes the SpeakEZ Lounge (600 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503). Beginning at 7 pm on December 5, 2015, you’ll time-travel back to the devent_21440803ay Prohibition ended. Savor special appetizers and cocktails as you listen to the River City Jazz Ensemble. They’ll be playing vocal jazz hits and classical instrumental music that was popular during Prohibition. Be sure to wear your favorite 1920s and 1930s attire to immerse yourself in the experience. Cover is $10 and includes snacks.

Repeal Day at the GRPM is Saturday, Dec. 5 from 9 am-5 pm, 272 Pearl St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Call 616.929.1700 for more information, or visit the website.

LaughFest Announces Headlining Artists; Tickets go on Sale Dec. 4

Community Health, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, ,

LAUGHFEST_final_2Oh, boy. Now they’ve done it. The cat’s out of the bag, and what a wild one it is.

Gilda’s LaughFest, the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter, has announced its selection of artists performing at the 2016 10-day festival, which runs March 10-20.

The formal announcement for the sixth annual festival is happening this evening at 7:30 pm at the Grand Rapids Art Museum’s Cook Auditorium and is free and open to the public. So, read about it here, and then hie thee down to GRAM and schmooze to your heart’s content.

So, what’s the big deal, you may ask? Well, for starters, last year, 45,000 people attended LaughFest. So, yeah, it’s a huge deal.

This time around, Seth Meyers, an Emmy Award-winning writer and former Saturday Night Live cast member, who currently hosts NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers headlines the Signature Event on MarcKathy Griffinh 12 at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids.

Two-time Emmy and Grammy Award-winning comedian, writer, producer and television personality, Kathy Griffin is also headlining the event. And then there’s Marlon Wayans, an actor, producer, comedian, writer, and film director–who will be starring in the upcoming comedy spoof Fifty Shades of Black.

Could these people be any more multi-talented? OK, stupid question.

Returning LaughFest veterans include Anjelah Johnson, who has guest starred on shows such as The Shield, Ugly Betty and Curb Your Enthusiasm; aMarlon Wayansnd Roy Wood Jr. from the hit show Sullivan & Son.

We could just list them all here, but where’s the fun in that when you can go directly to the website and see photos of the funny people. While they are all worth mentioning here, cash is king and anytime we see a cash prize listed, we write about it.

The Best of the Midwest Competition, underwritten by Wolverine Worldwide, will feature eight Midwestern comics battling for a $2,500 cash prize. Competitors are Sydney Adeniyi, Chris Bowers, Kate Brindle, Jim Flannigan, Rob Jenkins, Chris Knutson, Paul Strickland, and Russ Williamson.

New this year, LaughFest is collaborating with DisArt to bring in recent runner up on America’s Got Talent, Drew Lynch. DisArt, a nonprofit arts and culture organization based in Grand Rapids, works to promote community growth by leveraging the best examples of contemporary, Global Disability Arts. Their 2015 DisArt Festival was one of the largest festivals of its kind, bringing in talented visual artists and performers from several different countries.People and Pets

Additionally, ticket packages will include the LaughFest’s Best shows, which will feature comedians from across the festival, and shows from local comedy troupes Pop Scholars and River City Improv.

LaughFest 2016 will include more than 200 free and ticketed shows featuring over 100 artists at more than 40 venues in Grand Rapids and Lowell, Michigan during the 10 days of the festival. Ticket packages start at $32 and will be available to the public beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 4 online or by phone at (616) 735-HAHA (4242).

Tickets for Meyers’ performance during the Signature Event are currently available for purchase.

Hey! Want a table sponsorship? Several are available for $2,500, $5,000 and $10,000 for tables of 10. Individual tickets are available for $250 (and $100 of the individual ticket cost is tax deductible).

During LaughFest, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids will again raise funds to support its children’s programs through the “High Five” campaign. Money raised through this campaign will go towards children living with cancer or grief, and for in-school emotional health programs. Want to donate to the “High Five” campaign? Just purchase a button for a $5 donation at participatingLaughfest crown yucking it up restaurants and business in West Michigan, or through the LaughFest website.

Individual tickets are priced from $7 to $57.50, excluding the Signature Event. These will be available beginning Friday, Jan. 15, 2016 at the Van Andel Arena Box Office, Ticketmaster outlets, LaughFest Central, when it opens in mid-February, through the closing day of LaughFest, and at ticketmaster.com.

Gilda’s LaughFest was created by a team at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids in 2011 to celebrate laughter for the health of it. Past LaughFest headliners have included George Lopez, Wanda Sykes, Billy Gardell, Jay Leno, Lily Tomlin, Mike Birbiglia, Margaret Cho, Betty White, Whoopi Goldberg, Rodney Carrington, Martin Short, Kevin NealonDont we boys, Wayne Brady, Joel McHale, Lewis Black and Brian Regan.

Proceeds from the festival will go to support the free cancer, grief and emotional health programs offered through Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. Visit laughfestgr.org, or call 616-735-HAHA (4242) to learn more about Gilda’s LaughFest.

About Gilda’s Club
Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids is a free emotional health support community of children, adults, families and friends on any kind of cancer journey or those grieving the death due to any cause. The organization runs entirely on charitable donations and currently serves more than 10,000 individuals each year at its clubhouses in Grand Rapids and Lowell, Mich., in various schools and community centers. For more information, visit their website.

Tech to be thankful for

Citizen Journalism, Tech Trends, , , , , , , ,

Apple WatchBy: Jason Snell

Last week was Thanksgiving here in the United States, and columnists writing things-I’m-thankful-for columns is as much a tradition as turkey and stuffing and family arguments. Who am I to buck tradition? So let me present my 2015 list of technology stuff that I’m thankful for.

Find My Friends. This year my son started middle school and my daughter high school. They’re both now using hand-me-down iPhone 5’s, and it’s extremely helpful to be able to find where they are when I’m wondering. Part of growing up is gaining independence, but that doesn’t mean dad’s feelings aren’t improved when I know that my son’s a couple blocks away and will be home on his bike in just a minute.

Apple MusicApple Music. It seems to be popular to rip on Apple’s fledgling music service, but I’m using it far more than I’ve ever used any other streaming service, and I’ve tried most of them. It’s great that Apple Music integrates into my iTunes music library, so I can mix and match music I’ve bought with music from the service, and I’ve come to really appreciate the curated playlists of new music from different genres. I have discovered a huge swath of great new music simply by subscribing to the A-List Alternative playlist. I wish my family would embrace it, though—my daughter loves listening to music, but is a devout Spotify user and won’t make the switch.

Shared shopping lists on iPhone. I’ve been using Grocery IQ for a few years right now, which lets my entire family place items onto our grocery-store list. Recently I switched to AnyList, which is more modern and full featured than Grocery IQ, and adds Siri integration, so I can say, “Hey Siri, add an aluminum turkey roasting pan to the grocery list.” Pretty great.

Time-saving features in Overcast. I listen to a lot of podcasts (almost as many as I make myself!), and since I work at home, I don’t have a commute to use as listening time. In order to get as many podcasts in as possible, I’ve come to rely on the Overcast podcast app, which has some pretty amazing time-saving features. Overcast’s speed-boosting feature is the first one I’ve heard that makes faster audio sound natural, and not choppy and artificial. And its Smart Speed feature scales down pauses and silences, saving time even if you’re listening at standard speeds. I’d never go back to listening to podcasts at 100 percent speed and without Smart Speed.

Keyboard IPadExternal bluetooth keyboards for iPad. Even before the iPad Pro came out, I’ve enjoyed writing on the iPad as a change of pace. It helps me get up from my desk and be productive in some other location, whether it’s a cafe, the kitchen table of a friend or relative, or even the bar in my kitchen, where I’m writing this right now. To write at peak efficiency, I like to use an external keyboard, and while Apple now makes its Smart Keyboard for iPad Pro, there are plenty of great Bluetooth keyboards out there that offer more keys, better key travel, and even backlighting in some cases. (I’m still using Apple’s excellent last-generation Wireless Keyboard, which works great, even with the iPad Pro.)

Digital comics. As a kid I read an awful lot of comics, but largely stopped between about 1986 and 2010, when the iPad came out. Now I’m back as a comic reader again. Switching to the iPad Air 2 from the iPad mini has made comics even more fun to read. I buy new comics from Comixology, read DRM-free comics using Chunky Comic Reader, and binge-read a whole bunch of stuff from Marvel Unlimited. No, it’s not cheap, but at $69 per year, Marvel Unlimited is a pretty great deal if you like Marvel comics and don’t mind being a few months behind on the latest releases.

Slack. I don’t work in an office with other people—my dog wanders in from time to time, but that’s about it—but Slack keeps me connected. It’s a place to plan projects, explain ideas, and yes, have those water-cooler conversations that no longer take place around the water cooler, because who has a water cooler in their house? Businesses can pay for Slack to get extra features, but you can set up a Slack group for free and use it essentially forever. Think of a group you interact with mostly online—college friends, a club, even your family—and give Slack a try. You may be surprised at how much fun it is.

Social news discovery. I don’t read RSS feeds anymore—if I ever did, really. But I follow a lot of interesting people on Twitter, and have built several Twitter lists full of people who cover non-tech things I’m interested in, most notably sports and science. Thanks to Nuzzel, a clever iOS app and web service, I can browse my Twitter feed and my various lists as if they were news sources. Links recommended by more than one person will float to the top. It’s improved my news consumption for the better.

Apple WatchApple Watch. It’s also been cool lately to slag off the Apple Watch, but I still love mine. Not only does it tell the time—the most important function of any watch—but the new Night Stand mode has allowed me to replace my old alarm clock. I love getting notifications on my wrist and seeing my activity for the day and the week. Yes, there’s still a whole lot here that needs to be improved—that’s another column—but I wear mine every day.

A really big DVR hard drive. My TiVo Roamio has three terabytes of storage on it, and that’s a good thing. Between broadcast and cable, there’s a shocking amount of good television on, and I just can’t watch it all. And TiVo has done a good job of supporting streaming, too. Streaming shows appear as peers in the Now Playing list, show up in searches, and play—whether on Amazon, Netflix, or Hulu—with a couple of clicks of the remote. And streaming shows don’t take up hard drive space, which is good, I guess?

There’s plenty to criticize about the technology we use every day, and the stuff that the tech world keeps trying to sell us. But it’s worth stopping once in a while to consider all the great tech stuff that we use everyday. (And for tech columnists, “once in a while” means Thanksgiving week.)

Techie Gifts for the Holidays

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giftsBy: Deidre Doezema-Burkholder

Whenever the gift giving season comes around I’m at a loss for ideas on what to ask for and, more importantly, what to give. Every year it never seems to fail.

Sure, I can ask/give the mundane gift card to a various store, restaurant or iTunes. I mean, that’s easy, right? Do gift cards really say “Happy Holidays”? Okay, maybe they do, but only because it is already literally written on the plastic card!

Technology is always a great gift idea, and it also happens to be my forte. So, without further ado, here is a quick and simple gift guide to five holiday gadgets–in no particular order–anyone could use!

1. A Streaming Media Player.

If you’re still watching Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime on your computer or a tablet, it’s time to upgrade to a media player. There are several options available in a variety of price ranges. As I’m partial to Apple products, I can’t help but speak to my love affair with Apple TV ™. With the release of the 4th version just in time for the holiday season, it’s worth the trip to wander yourself up to a local retailer for a looky look.

Apple TV 4th GenI currently have 3 Apple TV’s in my home and have been using them for several years now. I love the ability to access TV, movies, and stream music directly from Apple as well as watch Netflix, Hulu, and sample other channels. An entry-level device starts at just $69 while the new models start at $149. However, if you’re dead set against anything Apple, make sure to check out either Roku or Chromecast as both give similar options.

2. SmartWatch

Now, before you start telling me there is no way you’re going to buy an Apple Watch, take a deep breath and let me calm your fears, I don’t blame you. I don’t have one most likely for the same reason you don’t, I’m not about to spend $350 for a watch. (Disclaimer, if you do have an Apple Watch let me know, I’d love to talk to you.)

SmartWatchAny who… there are plenty of other options out there for you. Fitbit and Pebble both have reasonable options for SmartWatches. If you want something to help track you in the health and fitness area, a Fitbit Charge or Charge HR are great options that connect to your smartphone. Interested in just the smarter part of the smartwatch? Take a look at Pebble. Pebble allows you to receive technology notifications and music right on your wrist at a much more reasonable cost.

3. Say Cheese!

Now that most smartphones have cameras that can rival most point and shoot cameras, there are a slew of accessories to further enhance your smartphone camera’s possibilities. Olloclip has a nice 4-in-1 lens kit that can slip right over your phone. The lens hug the camera giving the option of a Fisheye, 2 Macro’s, and a wide-angle shot. Brilliant!! If you’re more the adventure type, a quick look over at Optrix gives you lenses, cases, and mounts for the phone.

OlloClip Lense4. Play that Funky Music Caucasian Youthful Male.

Remember the BoomBoxes of the 1980’s? They were HUGE, literally. Those large musical boxes have disappeared from our shoulders and have now been replaced with something that can easily fit into a backpack or purse. Portable speakers come in all sorts of shapes, colors and size. In fact you can even find some that are waterproof in case you want to bring the beat into the shower.

5. Super Sleek Storage

It is probably one thing that is over looked because it is more practical than fun, extra storage for your digital device. Maybe it’s a new, larger hybrid hard drive for your son or daughter. It could be an external hard drive case for your sister who has been working on a genealogy of your family. Maybe it’s just something as simple as a USB 3.0 32GB Flash Drive for the kid’s school projects. It doesn’t matter the reason or for who, sometimes the gift has to be about need instead of a want.

I could easily list many other gift options, but if you didn’t know where to start, hopefully I’ve provided a clearer path to set you out on your shopping journey. Good luck!

Deidre owns and operates Organisum: Technology Services, a business serving the West MI area. In her free time she likes to hike & bike local trails with friends and family when she isn’t pinning, instagram’ing or Netflix’ing.

You Won’t Believe Your Eyes (or Ears): The Singing Christmas Tree is Back for its 31st Year

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By Victoria Mullen

Imagine, if you will, a singing Christmas tree. That’s right, a 67-foot-tall Christmas tree festooned with 240 young singers stacked from tip to toe. (The remaining 35 singers perform from under the tree.) It’s a strange sight and an unforgettable experience, so you won’t want to miss the Mona Shores Singing Christmas Tree at the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts, 425 W. Western Ave., #200, Muskegon, MI 49440, December 3-5.

I have questions, and maybe you do, too, such as: How do the singers stay in place? Do they get vertigo? What happens if one should faint? Are there singers in the back of the tree and, if so, do they mind that no one sees them? And how do the singers get up there anyway? These questions–and more–will not be answered here because Christmas is magic and so are this tree and this choir.

As a consolation prize, here are some quick, fun facts:

  • The person at the top of the Tree is known as “The Tree Angel” and is always a high school senior, selected by the director. This hard-working choir student exemplifies the spirit of the Mona Shores Choir.
  • Over 1,500 linear feet of electrical wiring runs throughout the tree to more than 25,000 colored lights, and
    over 5,000 linear feet of special greenery imported from Germany is “fluffed” and put on the tree prior to the
    decorations.
  • More than 200 volunteers started working on this year’s production in early October. Many worked around the clock from Sunday morning through Monday evening to prepare for technical rehearsals and get the tree presentable for its annual performance. Now that’s dedication!
  • The first Singing Christmas Tree ever created happened 50 years ago in Southern California. It was 16 feet
    high and held 25 singers. Many communities across the world have Singing Christmas Trees, but none are as
    tall as this one.

This is the thirty-first anniversary of the Mona Shores Singing Christmas Tree. There are only three days of performances, so get with the program quickly: Thursday, Dec. 3 at 7 pm; Friday, Dec. 4 at 7 pm; and Saturday, Dec. 5 at 3 pm & 7 pm.

Tickets are $15.00 and $10.00 on sale through Star Tickets and the Frauenthal Box Office.

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