More than 2,000 gymnasts from around the Midwest and thousands of spectators are expected to take part in the fifth annual Gymnastics on the Grand Invitational at the DeVos Place Convention Center this December.
The competition, sanctioned by USA Gymnastics, will kick off early Friday morning on December 5th and run through Sunday night.
“My gymnasts love this meet, not only because of its top-notch facility, but because they can show their hometown what they’ve been working so hard to accomplish,” said Shane Uson, owner and head coach of Grand Rapids Gymnastics. “We are excited once again to be bringing the sport of gymnastics into the spotlight in downtown Grand Rapids.”
This also makes the fifth year the even will partner with the Special Olympics of West Michigan. The Special Olympians will show off their gymnastic skills in an exhibition performance on Sunday, December 7th.
Following the exhibition, the invitational continues for the most advanced gymnasts – those with the highest scores the previous day – in event finals.
“Special Olympics Michigan is thrilled to be a part of this great event for another year,” said marketing and development director Ashley Diersch. “Being a part of the invitational has provided our gymnasts opportunities and experiences that they will never forget! It has been a great partnership between the two organizations and the support and inclusion has been special to all involved.”
Making a special appearance again this year will be 2004 Olympic All-Around Champion, and member of the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame, Carly Patterson! Carly will be at the competition to meet fans and sign autographs throughout the weekend. Media interviews may be requested in advance. Visit www.GymnasticsOnTheGrand.com for the entire schedule.
At last Wednesday’s business launch, One Wyoming 1 on 1 appealed to local employers to become mentors to students in Wyoming schools. The need for mentors is significant says Harry Knol of Wyoming Public Schools, while the results are nothing but positive according to “The Mentoring Effect”.
“Be someone who matters to someone who matters,” says Pastor Eddy Brewer of GR First Church.
The purpose of One Wyoming 1 on 1 is to connect local youth with positive adult mentors so they can grow up to be tomorrow’s leaders. The program requires mentors to meet with the student one hour per week, usually during school on school property, with training and support provided by the One Wyoming 1 on 1 steering team. Outside events, like free movies, are also offered to mentors and mentees throughout the year.
President of Metro Hospital Mike Faas is planning on encouraging his employees to become mentors.
Speaking in support of the program was President of Metro Health Hospital Mike Faas and former Wyoming Park basketball player and Michigan State alumni and basketball player Drew Neitzel, who is currently a financial advisor in the Wyoming area.
Faas admitted that his “eyes were opened” by what he learned that day.
“You can never be a leader unless people want to follow you. And you don’t always know who influences you until years later. That’s why this program is so important,” he explained adding, “I completely support it and look forward to sharing it with my management team. This is something people will want to be a part of.”
Wyoming Park High School and Michigan State alumni and basketball player Drew Neitzel shares the influence of mentors in his life.
For Drew Neitzel, mentoring is something he does on a regular basis with his annual basketball camp for kids in 4th to 8th grade. “It gives you a good feeling to help kids,” Neitzel shared from his personal experience. He says that he recalls his first mentor was his dad.
“Then through high school I had teachers and coaches who guided me and encouraged me to excel not only academically but as a basketball player as well.
“The greatest thing you can do for these kids is support them and tell them they can reach for the stars,” he said.
Neitzel added that he owes a great deal of gratitude to MSU basketball coach Tom Izzo who changed him from being a quiet kid to a man who could take charge, speak up and become a leader. “That’s what mentoring is about.”
If you are interested in becoming a mentor for a student of any age in the Wyoming school system, e-mail your question to info@onewyoming1on1.org.
A tasty meal from San Chez Bistro, one of the amazing restaurants West Michigan has to offer
What is it that makes dining not just something you have to do, but also a rich, fulfilling experience? Think of the meals that stand out in your memory. The ones that were made with the freshest ingredients, the ones that pushed boundaries exploring new flavor ideas, the ones enjoyed with families and friends, and the ones that were prepared with love and attention. West Michigan has an abundance of restaurants, farm-to-table offerings, and culinary tours which are sure to get your taste buds watering for your next visit to West Michigan.
South
A Hungry Village Tour is the perfect way to enhance your Saugatuck/Douglas vacation. Small groups maximize the tour experience. Hungry Village Tours offers an exceptional “behind the scenes” glimpse of local culture, food, wine, customs, and fun! Let them create a special tour for your group, or join a scheduled departure. Hungry Village Tours begins each tour at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, acknowledging its weekly Greenmarket, culinary arts connection, and the Center’s history as a pie factory. There are two tours available from all year long: One is a 3 hour “Culinary Walk”, exploring Saugatuck’s and Douglas’ culinary secrets behind their storefronts with demonstrations and tastings. The second option is a 6 hour “Delicious Drive,” featuring a tour of the lakeshore’s producers including farms, orchards, blueberry patches, vintners, brewers, creameries and other artisans. Contact Hungry Village Tours leader, David Geen, at 269-857-1700 or info@hungryvillagetours.com.
There is the age-old adage that you are what you eat. If those words hold even a little truth, then Food Dance in Kalamazoo thinks it’s time to take a closer look at what we’re putting on our plates. This is more than their work – it’s a bit of an obsession. Food Dance is fixated on finding honest-to-goodness fruits, vegetables, meat and eggs that come from the farm, not the factory. All this brought together to build a menu of thoughtfully constructed great tasting American food.To you it may be a unique and natural alternative to today’s chain invasion – to Food Dance it’s like changing the world – one meal at a time.
Journeyman Distillery
It isn’t just food that can boast local farm-to-table offerings, but also local beverages! At Journeyman Distillery in Three Oaks, they are committed to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They use midwestern grains in all of their spirits, and local ingredients are a large part of their food and cocktail menus. You can get a look into their process for yourself on one of their distillery tours, offered weekdays at 12:15pm and Saturday and Sunday at 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:30pm and 5:00pm.
At Goldberry Woods: Bed & Breakfast, Microfarm, & Cottages, they know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and they aspire to inspire you with every bite. They make everything from scratch and strive to use the freshest ingredients possible, many grown right on the premises. Even their breakfast sausages and bacon are produced locally. The animals are raised organically and humanely in Harbor Country. They are happy to accommodate any special dietary needs and will do so as creatively as possible. The breakfast menu at Goldberry Woods in Union Pier changes with the seasons but always includes a fresh fruit starter and a full, hot, made-from-scratch breakfast.
Take a foodie tour of the Fenville area, and we guarantee you’ll leave full and happy. Start with lunch or dinner at Salt of the Earth, located in the heart of southwest Michigan farm and orchard country. They cook from scratch to create their entrees, sandwiches, wood oven fired pizzas, creative soups, fresh salads, desserts, and artisan breads. Their ‘Specialty Sips’ menu includes a scratch margarita, fresh mojitos, and other seasonal cocktails made with Michigan craft beers, hard ciders, spirits, and wines. Salt of the Earth is also an entertainment destination presenting the finest roots musicians on the scene at weekly house concerts. When you’re done with your meal, head down the road to Crane’s Pie Pantry, where you’ll have your choice of over a dozen different styles of pie! Grab a slice to eat now, a whole pie to take home, or a frozen pie that you can bake right in your own oven. Your final stop is Fenn Valley Winery, who’s tasting room is open year-round for free samples of their award-winning wines and champagnes. Hop on one of their public winery tours, and get a behind-the-scenes look at making world-class wines, with plenty of tasting opportunities along the way!
Bistro on the Boulevard
Discover the Bistro on the Boulevard, an extraordinary dining experience in downtown St. Joseph, MI. Their seasonally changing menus feature one-of-a kind appetizers, entrees, and desserts made with locally sourced ingredients. The Bistro was named “Region’s Best Fine Dining Restaurant” by Shore Magazine and is one of only two Southwest Michigan restaurants to boast Wine Spectators award of excellence for “one of the best restaurant wine lists in the world.” The Bistro is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. When dining at the Bistro on the Boulevard you will enjoy meals prepared with local ingredients. Several farmers from Southwest Michigan deliver their meat and produce to the restaurant every week!
Arcadia Brewing Company was established in 1996 as a microbrewery specializing in handcrafted British-style ales. As well as craft beers, they also offer locally-sourced dishes at their two pub locations. In addition to harvesting from their own garden, they source from many local farms and bakeries to provide visitors with the freshest, high quality ingredients. They offer house-smoked BBQ and their own burgers, made with a custom blend of chuck and brisket ground fresh daily.
Central
A Celebration of Culinary Crafts! The Midwest’s largest wine festival comes together November 20-22 with over 1,400 wines, beers, ciders and spirits from around the world, along with creations from the area’s finest restaurants at the International Wine, Beer, and Food Festival at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids. The event attracts thousands of food and wine enthusiasts and offers a vast array of extraordinary tastings, cooking demonstrations, wine and beer seminars, gourmet foods, specialty items and accessories. For more information, visit GRWineFestival.com. Keep an eye out for local chocolatiers from Grand Haven, Chocolates by Grimaldi, who will be on site offering their gourmet chocolates, including creamy truffles, buttery caramels, and their signature potato chips in chocolate.
Earth to Table Dining: Artfully Crafted Cuisine. Grove restaurant, located in Grand Rapids, is a tribute to the bounty of the earth’s harvest and how Grove brings that to the table with impeccable service, natural ingredients and innovative cuisine. Their seasonal, frequently changing selections hint at the classics with natural sauces and a slant toward sustainable seafood. They responsibly source as many ingredients as possible from local, family and sustainable farms and prepare each dish to demonstrate their respect for how these farmers raise or grow their products. Grove carefully pairs their daily, innovative menus with the best modern wines. Their beverage menu also includes eclectic and top-shelf liquors, their own housemade infused spirits, craft beers, pour-over coffee and espresso. They’re located in the heart of East Hills at 919 Cherry Street. Visit them online at grovegr.com or make a reservation by calling 616.454.1000.
Inspired, handcrafted foods that nurture both body and community. At Terra in Grand Rapids, they follow their passions – and the seasons – for only the freshest, health-filled ingredients from the region’s most dedicated growers. They pride themselves on distinctive fare, expertly crafted with passion, intellect and culinary skill. You’ll enjoy handcrafted meals that honor the purest ingredients from the finest regional farms and fields. Terra’s focus on seasonal offerings means they only use fresh, honest ingredients bursting with the flavors of each season. Not only will you find delicious dining at Terra, but also a community dedicated to the promotion and rewards of a health-conscious lifestyle.
Twisted Rooster
Satisfyingly savory and always fresh, using Michigan made products with a twist—that’s what you can expect when dining at the Twisted Rooster in Grand Rapids. Twisted Rooster’s Executive Chef Dave Ogren and his culinary team work with local vendors and suppliers to provide guests with a decidedly tasty twist on classic American fare. Twisted Rooster’s mantra is to provide each guest with “Simply Impeccable Food & Drinks with Uncommon Hospitality.” Their locally sourced, scratch made menu is full of local flavor and includes vendors such as Byron Center Meats, R.W. Bakers, Faygo and Founders Brewing Company. Ogren said their menu is meant to emphasize their twisted “Commit to the Mitt” motto.
Fish Tacos are a must have at the Twisted Rooster. This house favorite #1 seller, consists of Founders Pale Ale battered flash-fried tasty Grouper, fresh pico de gallo, shredded white cheddar, housemade crispy noodle slaw, cilantro sour cream and tortilla chips. The Twisted House salad isn’t your typical house salad: it is made up of mixed greens; Traverse City dried cherries, Michigan grown apples, Roquefort bleu cheese, strawberries, cinnamon raisin bread croutons and toasted pecans tossed in a homemade cherry maple-vinaigrette dressing. The famous Twisted Mac & Cheese is a favorite for locavores everywhere. Twisted cavatappi noodles are blended with a bold white 5 cheese sauce, house smoked chicken, sweet peas, asparagus, cherry tomatoes with baked cheddar bread crumbs and fried parmesan. Needless to say, Twisted Rooster is a necessary stop on your next west Michigan road trip. Get more information at www.twisted-rooster.com.
Honest Fayre. Local Flair. At The Green Well they serve honest fayre with local flair in a neighborhood setting that keeps customers coming back. Their innovative gastro pub is green beyond its name: Their LEED® certified building is environmentally safe, ultra efficient and leaves behind the smallest possible carbon footprint. “Gastro pub” is British for a public house that specializes in high-quality food served in a relaxed atmosphere. The Green Well’s creative menu features a global range of eclectic flavors prepared with ingredients from local farmers. Over 20 rotating taps focus on Michigan brews, as well as a vast selection of bottles, ranging from local and American craft to traditional European styles. The wine list features creative flights that encourage multiple wine flavors paired with food. Classic cocktails are also available. Their greenness also spills over to their guests who benefit from affordable prices and outstanding service by a fun, welcoming staff. Located at 924 Cherry Street in East Hills.
Bistro Bella Vita
Fresh. Natural. Local. Mediterranean Countryside Cuisine. At Bistro Bella Vita, they go above and beyond to deliver the ultimate dining experience with top-notch, personable service, whether it’s a simple pizza and beer with friends, or an elegant chef’s table meal perfectly paired with appropriate wines. Their vision is to be West Michigan’s most respected restaurant destination. Guests enjoy Bistro Bella Vita’s unique downtown atmosphere and their creative cuisine made exclusively from fresh, natural, ingredients purchased daily from local farmers in season. The culinary team creates authentic, scratch-made recipes that blend the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean countryside with a perfectly paired beverage offering served by a devoted staff whose passion is to ensure your complete satisfaction. They’re located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, just west of the Van Andel Arena on Grandville and Weston. Make your reservation online or call them at 616. 222. 4600.
Stop by San Chez Bistro for the most unique dining and entertainment venue in Grand Rapids. San Chez Bistro offers a blend of authentic European and Mediterranean cuisine in a fun, laid-back, and artful atmosphere. Take a break from fast food with breakfast and lunch by San Chez Café, made with the finest local ingredients, and prepared to order fresh seven days a week. Enjoy omelets, scrambles, pastries, bagels, yogurt, fresh fruit, or the best sandwiches and soups in town. Appreciate gourmet fair-trade coffee and whole leaf organic tea while you linger with free Wi-Fi, or hold a breakfast meeting in our comfy café.
CityVū Bistro is Holland’s hotspot for all things fresh. Fryers and frozen foods are out. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, creative menu concepts, and healthy yet delicious dishes are in. Their 100% whole grain, hearth-baked flatbread, topped with unique combinations of savory ingredients, is the ultimate edible plate. Now you can have your plate and eat it too! If flatbreads aren’t your forté, choose from a diverse array of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, and desserts. Regular menu revisions by their chef, including a monthly “Taste Of” feature highlighting the culinary nuances of international locales, will satisfy even the most discerning of palettes.
The JW Marriott signature restaurant, six.one.six, and destination lounge, mixology, offer the breathtaking blend of sophisticated urban ambience, palate-pleasing cuisine, as well as the finest wines and perfectly poured cocktails. But more than just a “pretty face,” six.one.six. takes its cuisine seriously. Dedicated to the concept of buying local, the chef’s pantry is bursting with locally grown ingredients, some of which are picked just a few feet away at the JW Chef’s Garden. The six.one.six. kitchen also participates in Sort, a recycling and composting program coordinated with Zeeland-headquartered Spurt Industries, which helps turn food scraps into top-quality soil for area parks. You’ll find dishes sourced from New Holland Brewery, Black Star Farms, Founder’s Brewery, and many more when you dine at six.one.six.
Downtown Market Grand Rapids
Downtown Market Grand Rapids offers farm to table dining, and everything in between. Visit in the spring and summer for their outdoor farmers market, where the best of everything fresh and local will be on display for purchase. The indoor Market Hall is open year-round, and offers everything from local produce, fish, meats, and cheese to restaurants serving tacos & thai food sourced from local ingredients. Downtown Market offers regular cooking classes & demonstrations to help you bring that fresh and local taste right into your own kitchen.
Not only can you tour a working dairy farm when you visit Country Dairy in New Era, you can taste the fruits of their labors in their Farm Store. Pick up your favorite cheeses, try one of their unique ice cream flavors, or visit the Fresh Meat Market for cuts of beef which are corn-fed and hormone free from Country Dairy’s own steer herd. They have a restaurant on site as well, so order a burger, wrap, or sandwich, and don’t forget about the bottomless cup of milk to go along with your meal!
The historic, Coopersville & Marne Railway is continuing its 25th year of providing family-friendly fun with the annual running of The Santa Train. Uniformed Conductors and Trainmen will assist you during your ninety-minute journey. The clickity-clack of the iron wheels and the sound of the locomotive horn at each road crossing will add to the special feeling. A blanket of snow in the passing woods and farmer’s fields completes the experience. Christmas carols are sung along the way.
SANTA!
The jolly old elf has a special seat in each of the decorated, vintage train cars. Some cars are almost 100 years old. Santa’s Elves will escort the little ones to sit with Santa. All children, even the shy ones, will get a special gift right from Santa’s big red bag. To put a figurative bow on this Christmas “enterTRAINment” package, the Story Telling Princess will read “The Polar Express”, which was written by Grand Rapids native, Chris Van Allsburg.
The 250 seat, heated train leaves the station in historic, downtown Coopersville every Saturday and Sunday from Thanksgiving until Christmas. Each passenger car has a restroom. Your light snacks and cameras may be taken aboard. Snow or no, we go!
Times for the departures are: Saturday, November 29 at 11 am & 1:30 pm. On all other Saturdays, the departure times are 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm. All Sunday departures are at 1 pm and 3 pm. Saturday dates are Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13, & 20. Sunday dates are Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14 & 21.
Ticket prices are: Adults, $15.50, Seniors (60+), $14. 50 and Children (2-12), $13.50, Children under 2 years old are free. Advance tickets: 616-997-7000, Ext. 3 or www.MItrain.net. Some tickets may be available at the train station on the days of departures. But, the train does sell out on occasion, so reservations are recommended. The Conductor begins the boarding procedures at twenty minutes prior to departure times.
Before reporting on the update of the historical Dewey-Wedgewood Home at Beckmaze, I need to acknowledge the citizen journalist , Dorothy Simon-Tibbe who told us about Wyoming’s oldest residence. Thank you Dorothy!
Here’s a brief recap: The 180 year old residence and its three-acre property are the focus of preservation by a group of local historians known as the Beckmaze Historical Society. They are a non-profit group that is passionate about seeing the grounds along Buck Creek preserved as a community learning center through the City of Wyoming. The reason Beckmaze Historical Society is seeking jurisdiction as a community center is because the city of Wyoming does not recognize historical or museum status for properties under city ordinances. I asked the head of the city’s planning, Tom Cochran, why there is no historic status under the city planning commission ordinances and he honestly replied, “I don’t know.”
The foundation of the original 1830s sawmill is still visible today.
It would seem to this citizen journalist that if there were a historical or museum status in the city ordinances, the Dewey-Wedgewood Home at Beckmaze would be deemed a historical museum – hands down! After all, records of the property predate Michigan becoming a state! Native American artifacts have been found around the home as well as pre-Civil War coins. So to put it in layman’s terms: This property is a historical no-brainer.
Unfortunately however, it is not that simple due to the city’s current ordinances. Wyoming city officials say they have more questions than answers to the group’s request. After hearing the Beckmaze proposal at last month’s public meeting, Wyoming’s planning and development committee shared concerns about emergency access to the site, the availability of public parking, and the potential response from neighboring residents.
Kelly Hogan of the Beckmaze Historical Society tells us that while all the neighbors are supportive of the property’s special use, details for emergency access and parking at the site are being worked out.
The front porch in 1906.
She added that once all the city’s concerns are addressed, the group will resubmit their proposal to the city. White is also considering having the state of Michigan do a historical evaluation of the property to present its findings to the city planning commission. Perhaps then the city council will be motivated to sign a new ordinance to govern historical properties in Wyoming. Currently the city Wyoming does not have a designated museum. There is a historical room at the Wyoming branch of the Kent District Library.
If you are interested in joining the Beckmaze Historical Society to help protect this property, call 616-258-8617 or visit Beckmaze Historical-Society on Facebook for the latest updates.
Jinane Itani and her husband fled civil war in their native Lebanon. Although they lived and worked in a number of countries, they settled their family in the U.S., a place that feels like home. Now a small business owner and community volunteer, she says she is thankful every day to live in her adopted United States.
This is a special time to visit Santa at RiverTown Crossings mall. It’s an opportunity for children with special needs to visit Santa in a more soothing and sensory-friendly environment.
Taking place before stores open on Sunday, November 23 & Sunday, December 7, families will have the opportunity to visit Jolly Old Saint Nick with dimmed lighting, no overhead mall music, and lower shopper traffic.
Each child will receive a Rudolph coloring book from Santa, and each family will receive a free 5 x 7 photo. Additional photos will be available for purchase.
To reduce the challenges associated with waiting in a long line, we are limiting the number of families for each event. Please reserve your space with RiverTown Crossings mall by calling 616-257-7600 during normal business hours.
Quick and convenient parking is located on the South side of the mall underneath the movie theater or on the North side on the upper level of the parking deck. Santa is located in the Food Court on the Upper Level.
Students can Experience the Grand Rapids Symphony concerts for just $5!
Students are eligible to attend most GR Symphony concerts for just $5 through the Student Passport Program. Student Passport tickets are available for the Richard and Helen DeVos Classical Series, the Fox Motors Pops Series, Crowe-Horwath Great Eras and MusicNow Series, and select Nestle Gerber SymphonicBoom concerts. For more information, go to GRSymphony.org/studentpassport.
As fall colors fade and temperatures drop, Pure Michigan is ushering in winter weather fun with the release of the 2014 Pure Michigan Winter Guide. The michigan.org website and social channels, including Facebook and Twitter, are also switching into winter gear for the season.
“Michigan offers residents and visitors alike a perfect opportunity to take a snow day and enjoy all the winter season has to offer,” said Leslie Hornung, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “This travel guide inspires people to embrace the beauty and unique events found in Michigan all winter long, while providing valuable tips and information to help plan a wide variety of getaways throughout the season.”
Individuals can request a copy of the 2014 Pure Michigan Winter Travel Guide at michigan.org or by calling toll-free (888) 784-7328. The guide will also be available at the 14 Michigan Welcome Centers across the state as well as in a free, universally accessible digital edition, which will allow users to access the guide from their desktop and laptop computers, smartphones and tablets.
Feature stories in this year’s winter guide include Into the Woods, a look at ways to explore Michigan’s backcountry – from snowmobiling to fat-tire biking; Winter Weekend Escapes, highlighting ski resorts around the state; and Cool Catch showcasing Michigan’s ice fishing assets. Those who prefer the indoors will want to check out The Art of Pie, with information on hands-on classes for the perfect pie, and Indoor Explorers to find kid-focused museums that entertain and educate.
The publication also includes a guide to Michigan state parks and trails and a winter events calendar. Once again, 100,000 copies of the winter guides have been printed at Quad Graphics in Midland, Michigan.
Last month, Pure Michigan teamed up with Lands’ End to offer fans across the nation the chance to win an ultimate winter getaway at Boyne Highlands Resort. There is still time to sign up to win, with the sweepstakes running through November 14, 2014. The prize package features a five day/four night trip for five to Boyne Highlands Resort including skiing, snowshoeing, winter zip-lining, spa services and access to the indoor water park at nearby Boyne Mountain. Additionally the winner will receive a $1,000 gift card from Lands’ End to outfit their Michigan adventure.
Michigan is home to 6,500 miles of snowmobile trails, 3,000 miles of cross country skiing trails and is second in the nation for the number of ski areas found across the state. Offering activities as diverse as tubing, ice fishing dog sledding and snowboarding Michigan winter vacations has something for everyone from outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers to families – much of which can be found in the 2014 winter guide.
Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy.
For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit: michiganbusiness.org. For Michigan travel news, updates and information, visit michigan.org.
A penny saved is a penny earned, right? Not necessarily. Thanks to inflation, over time that penny could be worth less than when it was first dropped into the piggy bank. That’s why if you’re investing—especially for major goals years away, such as retirement—you can’t afford to ignore the corrosive effect rising prices can have on the value of your assets.
Inflation Under the Microscope
Just what is inflation, this ravenous beast that eats away at the value of every dollar you earn? It is essentially the increase in the price of goods or services. The most commonly referenced measure of that increase is the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is based on a monthly survey by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The CPI compares current and past prices of a sample “market basket” of goods from a variety of categories including housing, food, transportation and apparel. The CPI does have shortcomings, according to economists: It does not take taxes into account or consider that as the price of one product rises, consumers may react by purchasing a cheaper substitute (name brand vs. generic, for example). Nonetheless, it is widely considered a useful way to measure prices over time.
Inflation has been a very consistent fact of life in the U.S. economy. Dating back to 1945, the purchasing power of the dollar has declined in value every year but two—1949 and 1954. Still, inflation rates were generally considered moderate until the 1970s. The average annual rate from 1900 to 1970 was approximately 2.5%. From 1970 to 1990, however, the average rate increased to around 6.0%, hitting a high of 13.3% in 1979. Recently, rates have been closer to the 1% to 3% range; the inflation rate has been 2.06% thus far in 2014.
What It Means to Your Wallet
In today’s economy, it is easy to overlook inflation when preparing for your financial future. An inflation rate of 4%, for instance, might not seem to be worth a second thought—until you consider the impact it can have on the purchasing power of your money over the long term. For example, in just 20 years, 4% inflation annually would drive the value of a dollar down to $0.44.
Or look at it another way: If the price of a $1,000 refrigerator rises by 4% over 20 years, it will more than double to almost $2,200. A larger-ticket item, such as a $23,000 automobile, would soar to more than $50,000 given the same inflation rate and time period.
Inflation also works against your investments. When you calculate the return on an investment, you need to consider not just the interest rate you receive but also the real rate of return, which is determined by factoring in the effects of inflation. Your financial adviser can help you calculate your real rate of return.
Clearly, if you plan to achieve long-term financial goals—from college savings for your children to your own retirement—you will need to create a portfolio of investments that will provide sufficient “inflation-adjusted” returns.
Investing to Beat Inflation
Insulating your portfolio against the threat of inflation might begin with a review of the investments most likely to provide returns that outpace inflation.
Over the long run—10, 20, 30 years, or more—stocks may provide the best potential for returns that exceed inflation. While past performance is no guarantee of future results, stocks have historically provided higher returns than other asset classes.
Consider these findings from a study of Standard & Poor’s data: An analysis of holding periods between 1926 and December 31, 2013, found that the annualized return for a portfolio composed exclusively of stocks in the Standard & Poor’s Composite Index of 500 Stocks was 10.14%—well above the average inflation rate of 2.96% for the same period. The annualized return for long-term government bonds, on the other hand, was only 5.52%. In addition, the study found that the stock portfolio did not suffer a loss in 817 separate 20-year holding periods. In every period, the annual rate of return for the stock portfolio was greater than the inflation rate. The bond portfolio outpaced inflation in only 447 of the 817 20-year holding periods—by a much lower margin.
A Balancing Act
Keep in mind that stocks do involve greater risk of short-term fluctuations than other asset classes. Unlike a bond, which offers a fixed return if you hold it until maturity, a stock can rise or fall in value based on daily events in the stock market, trends in the economy or problems at the issuing company. But if you have a long investment time frame and are willing to hold your ground during short-term ups and downs, you may find that stocks offer greater potential to beat inflation.
The key is to consider your time frame, your anticipated income needs and how much volatility you are willing to accept, and then construct a portfolio with the mix of stocks and other investments with which you are comfortable. For instance, if you have just embarked on your career and have 30 or 40 years until you plan to retire, a mix of 70% stocks and 30% bonds might be suitable. But even if you are approaching retirement, you may still need to maintain some growth-oriented investments as a hedge against inflation. After all, your retirement assets may need to last for 30 years or more, and inflation will continue to work against you throughout.
Take Steps to Tame Inflation
Whatever your investor profile—from first-time investor to experienced retiree—you need to keep inflation in your sights. Stocks may be your best weapon, and there are many ways to include them. Consult your financial planner to discuss your specific needs and options.
This communication is not intended to be tax or legal advice and should not be treated as such. Each individual’s situation is different. You should contact your tax and/or legal professional to discuss your personal situation.
This article was prepared by Wealth Management Systems Inc. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor. Please consult me if you have any questions.
Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by Wealth Management Systems Inc., or its sources, neither Wealth Management Systems Inc., nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall Wealth Management Systems Inc. be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscribers’ or others’ use of the content.
Doug receiving his All-State VFW CMDR white hat and certificate. A very prestigious honor indeed.Doug is a Volunteer Enforcement Officer and makes our community a safer place.
This man is on the go. He’s always busy, doing what he loves best–Volunteering. Doug Broek makes our community a better place through his tireless efforts in helping others. He is the winner of this month’s Volunteer of the Month recognition.
“I feel like I should give back to the community what I received,” he said during an interview with WKTV Community Media. ” I don’t want to become a couch potato. Your mind starts to wander. You lose everything you’ve lived for.” And what he lives for is to help people in need.
Doug volunteers extensively for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 702, the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program–just to name a few. He helps Veterans through his volunteer efforts at their clothing room, bait shop, special events, Bingo and taking lock down vets for long walks. Doug raises funds by selling flags on Memorial Day and the 4th of July.
Through his work with RSVP he keeps the city of Wyoming safer. He and his partner patrol the city for handicap and fire lane violations. He does fingerprinting of kindergarten students at Wyoming Schools and house checks for vacationing residents. Does he ever get to see his lovely wife Joan? Let’s go straight to the source herself…
“He is way busier now then when he was working,” she explained with a chuckle. Why should people volunteer? Our superstar Volunteer of the month explains: “You are always kept busy. It helps expand your circle of friends and one develops such a sense of camaraderie. Everyone should do it,” he concluded emphatically.
Editor’s Note: This is the first of a monthly feature that WKTV Community Media has established to recognize volunteers in our area. If you would like to nominate a volunteer who has made a difference give us a call at 261-5700 and ask for the Citizen Journalism Dept.
Grand Traverse Distillery will be the newest addition to the Downtown Market
Grand Rapids Downtown Market, a destination for local food innovation, education and experimentation, today announced Grand Traverse Distillery, maker of craft spirits including vodka, gin, rum, whiskey and bourbon, will open a tasting room at the Downtown Market.
Founded by Kent Rabish in 2007, Grand Traverse Distillery is based in Traverse City, and is the largest micro-distillery in Michigan. In his commitment to using local ingredients, Rabish uses corn, wheat and rye grown at Send Brothers Farm, just nine miles northeast of the distillery’s production facilities.
“Grand Traverse Distilleries is among the very few using the ‘grain-to-bottle’ method, which means we start with fresh, local rye, corn and wheat, and combined it with pure glacial water to create our artisan spirits,” said Rabish. “Single batch, handmade, one-at-a-time is how we bring our spirits to market, and we are excited to be the first local distiller to open a tasting room in Grand Rapids.”
The Grand Traverse Distillery Tasting Room at the Downtown Market will feature spirits to taste and buy by the bottle. The tasting room will also offer local products and mixers that best complement their spirits, such as syrups, peanuts and pickles, as well as clothing, glassware and barrels for those who want to age their own spirits.
“While artisan spirits are growing rapidly, Grand Traverse Distillery is committed to the re-emerging art of craft distillation, and we are thrilled to add an incredibly popular, ultra-premium Michigan brand to the Downtown Market,” said Mimi Fritz, president and CEO of the Downtown Market. “They are a perfect addition to our space and mission.”
Grand Traverse Distillery will continue to make all of its products at its Traverse City facility. The spirits also are available at tasting rooms in Leland, on Traverse City’s Front Street and in Frankenmuth, with another tasting room coming soon at Black Star Farms.
Construction on the space will begin this month, and the tasting room will open in December.
Former and current members of the K-9 Unit. (left to right: Sergeant Jeff Bylsma, Kresten Green, Bob Robinson, and Eric Toonstra)
Imagine a job where your work partner was around all day, every day. Punching out after a shift just meant you had to drive them home, to your house, to eat your food!
Now, imagine that partner with four legs, a beautiful fur coat, and a sense of smell 10,000 times better than yours. Welcome to the Wyoming Police K-9 Unit, a position that understands the importance of a dog being a man’s best friend.
What is the K-9 Unit?
The Wyoming K-9 Unit is a division within the Wyoming Police Department where officers are paired with dogs for a 10 year stint. The dogs do everything with the police officers they’re partnered with. They train together, work together, and come home under the same roof.
They are not only partners on the job, but they’re family on and off the clock.
How does an officer get involved with the K-9 Unit? Is prior dog handling experience necessary?
No prior dog handling experience is needed to handle the dog. However, that doesn’t mean anyone off the street can apply to be a member of the unit. The K-9 Unit is hired from within the Wyoming Police Department. If you’re not already a member of the police force, you won’ be considered.
Even though it’s a big commitment to work with a dog 24 hours a day, the positions aren’t difficult to fill when they open up. There are officers always willing to be dog handlers. It’s a unique experience and lifelong friendships are created with the dogs.
You keep saying ‘dogs’, what kind of dogs are we talking about here?
Bob Robinson and his dog of 10 years Arras.
German Shepards are the dogs of choice within the K-9 Unit. As a dog, the German Shepard has the best package of skills necessary to be an exceptional police dog. They’re smart, agile, personable, and have a keen sense of smell good for tracking scents and sniffing out narcotics. German Shepards can also be trained to bite if they have to!
Bombs and narcotics!? That seems like a lot for one dog to handle. How do you know whether the dog has sniffed out a drug or a bomb?
The dogs are either trained for one or the other, never both. If a dog is trained to sniff out both, than the officer has no idea what to expect! Because of that reason, dogs are specialized on what to look for. Some dogs are brought in for bomb detection while others are brought in for drug identification.
Is that all these dogs are used for, drugs and bombs?
No, the dogs are used whenever their superior sense of smell and tracking abilities are needed. The dogs respond to burglaries, search for the elderly that are wandering about, kids that are lost, and situations where suicidal people are out in the woods and need help.
Which season works best for tracking and which season is the most difficult?
It’s easiest for the dogs to track in the summer and most difficult in the winter. However, the winter snow usually leaves footprints behind, and that makes things more manageable!
Where does the Police Department get these highly specialized dogs?
Eric Toonstra and his Dutch Shepard named ‘Dutch’
There is a facility down in Indiana the Wyoming Police Department likes to use to find their new dogs. It’s close in proximity and gives the department the flexibility to choose between 30 different dogs. Some of the dogs are even imported from Europe.
Hold on a quick second, they import dogs from Europe? Why would they need to do that? What’s wrong with dogs bred here in America?
It’s not that there’s anything ‘wrong’ with American bred dogs, it’s more the way in which dogs are bred in Europe as opposed to in America. In America, dogs are bred for beauty and purity. A negative side effect of breeding dogs for purity are health problems earlier in life. If a dog has bad hips after two years on the job, they aren’t a very effective or reasonable choice as a police dog.
European dogs are bred differently, they’re stronger because they’re bred for sport. It’s more important for the dog to be healthy and athletic than it is for the dog to look ‘pure’. If they’re going to be a member of the police force, the dogs need to be reliable for an extended period of time. These dogs are expensive, and even though they’re great pets and friends, they have a job to.
Kreston Green and his dog Azar
Speaking of cost, how much are these dogs and how are they paid for?
The dogs are expensive, the newest addition to the team, a full German Shepard from Slovakia named Azar, cost $6,300. The department puts on a 5K the first week in October to help raise funds and awareness for the K-9 Unit. The 5K this year raised enough money to buy Azar.
That’s one expensive puppy! What do they feed the dogs to keep them work ready?
Meals consist of high energy foods. High protein and high carbs are a must! The most important rule, NO PEOPLE FOOD! If a dog is used on a house raid, and there’s food out in the open, it becomes a problem if the dog’s first instinct is to go to the food. It not only makes the job more difficult for everyone involved, but it could be detrimental to the dogs health if they eat something they’re not supposed to.
Something I still haven’t quite figured out, how do the dogs ride to work with their officer? Do they just hangout in the back seat of the cruiser?
The backseat of the K-9 Cruiser
Well, kind of! Although, the cruisers are specially built to accommodate the dogs. There is a special place for them where they can lay down with food and water readily available. The cruisers designed for the K-9 unit are used specifically for the purpose of accommodating the dogs.
How would you describe the dog’s relationship with their handlers?
It’s a very positive relationship in both directions. The dogs get excited when they alert about a find because they are consistently given positive reinforcement. The dogs all have a favorite chew toy or ball that they are given to play with when they do complete their job. They live to please their handlers.
The officers see their dogs not only as partners, but as family. The job is different everyday and it’s impossible to get bored.
The dogs all have their own personalities and quirks. They have good days and bad days, but at the end of the day, they’re a team!
What happens to the dogs after their service is completed?
After the dogs and their handler completes their 10 years of service together, the officer gets the reward of taking the retired dog home, to live life as a pet and a member of the family.
WKTV would like to thank the K-9 Unit for spending time with us!
Ticket packages for the March 5-15 festival of laughter go on-sale Nov. 14
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Nov. 11, 2014 – Today, the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter, Gilda’s LaughFest, announced the first round of talent and shows for the festival’s fifth year to be held March 5 to 15, 2015. The announcement included a diverse range of performers that are new to the festival, as well as some past favorites returning to take part in the festival’s fifth year.
The headliners announced include: George Lopez, Patton Oswalt, Wanda Sykes and LaughFest veterans Bo Burnham, YouTube star and singer/songwriter comedian; Pete Holmes, who will be perform two shows and record a live podcast; and Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood of Whose Line Is It Anyway? Ticket packages for the festival go on-sale Friday, Nov. 14.
“In planning our fifth year, we were looking to bring back some of our most popular acts from festival’s past while continuing to bring fresh faces to West Michigan,” said Joanne Roehm, festival director of LaughFest. “Following four successful years, the festival’s foundation will continue the tradition of laughter by featuring stand-up comedy, improv, music, dance, speakers, pets, children’s shows, free professional and amateur showcases, and a variety of other events that will allow everyone an opportunity to laugh.”
Other acts announced for LaughFest 2015 include Lavell Crawford of Breaking Bad; Billy Gardell, star of CBS’ Mike and Molly; and stand-up comedian and podcaster Brian Posehn.
The festival will continue to feature the Blue & Late Night Comedy Series, presented by Bud Light. Two of the artists announced include Jerrod Carmichael of the recent feature film Neighbors, and Iliza Schlesinger who is the only female and the youngest comedian to hold the title of NBC’s Last Comic Standing.
The Best of the Midwest Competition, underwritten by Wolverine Worldwide, will feature 10 Midwestern comics battling for a $2,500 cash prize. Competitors are Jeff Arcuri, Tom Brady, Katrina Brown, Danny Kallas, Bryan McCree, Mike Merryfield, Carmen Morales, Tommy Ryman, Norm Stulz, and BT.
Bissell Presents the Clean Comedy Showcase with two showcases featuring eight comedians who specialize in providing clean adult humor. Artists include Todd Andrews, Tracey Ashley, Sid Davis, Erin Foley, Dale Jones, Joe List, Andrew Norelli and PJ Walsh, who previously performed at LaughFest.
The Gun Lake Casino National Stand-Up Comedy Showcase returns to the festival and features 10 seriously funny, nationally-known comics: Joe DeRosa, Kyle Grooms, Ian Karmel, Randy Liedtke, Jared Logan, Alingon Mitra, Sara Schaefer, Dan Soder, Liza Tryeger and Sheng Wang.
The Family Friendly Series Presented by Meijer, includes performances by Recess Monkey, a high energy kids’ band; Super Saturday Kids Zone, a themed carnival for all ages; and Saturday Nite Teen Zone, a 13 and up activity fused evening for kids.
Additionally, ticket packages will include the LaughFest’s Best shows, which will feature comedians from across the festival, and shows from local comedy troupes River City Improv and Pop Scholars.
Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids is again seeking to raise funds to support its children’s programs through the “High Five” campaign. Money raised during LaughFest through this campaign will go towards children living with cancer or grief, and for in-school emotional health programs. Individuals interested in donating to the “High Five” campaign may do so by purchasing a button for a $5 donation at participating restaurants and business in West Michigan, or through the LaughFest website.
LaughFest 2015 will include more than 200 free and ticketed shows featuring over 100 artists at more than 40 venues in Grand Rapids, Lowell and Holland during the 10 days of the festival. Festival ticket packages start at $32 and will be available to the public beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14 online at laughfestgr.org, or by phone at (616) 735-HAHA (4242). A special pre-sale opportunity will be available on Thursday, Nov. 13 for members of the LaughFest Friends program at the $100 level. Information about membership is available at www.laughfestgr.org/membership2015.
Individual tickets are priced from $7 to $70, excluding the Signature Event. These will be available beginning Friday, Jan. 9, 2015 at the Van Andel Arena Box Office or at Ticketmaster outlets, or LaughFest Central, when it opens in mid-February, through the closing day of LaughFest.
The talent for Gilda’s Club Grand Rapid’s fundraising Signature Event held during LaughFest will be announced at a later date, along with additional talent for the festival. Previous artists who have appeared during the Signature Event include Betty White, Martin Short and Kevin Nealon, Wayne Brady, and Jay Leno.
Gilda’s LaughFest was created by a team at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids in 2011. Since inception, LaughFest has averaged 55,000 attendees per year. 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.
American Cancer Society Offers Tips to Help You Quit During the Great American Smokeout Nov. 20
Celebrate more birthdays with the American Cancer Society by quitting smoking during this year’s Great American Smokeout on Thursday, Nov. 20. If you or someone you love is looking to “kick the habit” this year, here are some helpful tips on how to break free from a smoking addiction.
Don’t keep it a secret. Include your friends and family in your quitting process; they can offer much-needed support.
You’re not alone. More and more people are trying to break free from cigarettes and there are lots of support options available. Many communities, employers, and health care organizations have free or low-cost counseling and support available to help you quit. Call your American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 to find out what’s available in your area.
Consider using medication to help you quit. There are prescriptions and over-the-counter medications that can help you deal with withdrawal symptoms or even help to reduce the urge to smoke. You’ll want to talk to your doctor first, but some medicine could help.
Dump the memories. Clear the places where you usually smoke of anything that reminds you of cigarettes – like lighters, ashtrays, or matches. Also ask other smokers not to smoke around you, and clean your house and car thoroughly to remove the smell of cigarettes.
Avoid places where smokers gather. Go to the movies or other places where smoking is not allowed.
Stay calm and stay busy. You may feel some nervous energy but it can be countered by physical and mental activities. Take long strolls and deep breaths of fresh air, and find things to keep your hands busy, like crossword puzzles or yard work. There are a lot of leaves on the ground at this time of year.
Talk to your doctor. Before you begin any plan for quitting smoking you should check with your doctor to see what might be the best approach for you. Remember, quitting smoking is very personal and there isn’t one perfect method.
When the urge to smoke strikes, do something else. If you feel a craving for a cigarette coming on, take a deep breath, count to 10 and then do something else. Call a supportive friend. Do brief exercises such as push-ups, walking up a flight of stairs, or touching your toes. Anything that will take your mind off your cravings.
One will hurt. Many people fall into the trap of thinking that if they only have one cigarette it’s okay. But even that one smoke can get you back in the habit of smoking full time. Keeping a supply of oral substitutes like carrots, apples, raisins, or gum handy can help.
Water, water everywhere. Drink lots of fluids to help curb cravings. Water is the best for this, and you’ll want to pass up on coffee and alcohol if they trigger your desire to smoke.
It’s not easy to quit smoking. Studies have indicated that cigarettes are more addictive than heroin, and the first three weeks after you quit are said to be the most difficult. If you stumble along the way to giving up smoking, don’t punish yourself. Just try again. The key is to stick with it. You can quit! The American Cancer Society can help. Contact your American Cancer Society 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.
The American Cancer Society created the trademarked concept for and held its first Great American Smokeout in 1976 as a way to inspire and encourage smokers to quit for a day. One million people quit smoking for a day at the 1976 event in California. The Great American Smokeout encourages smokers to commit to making a long-term plan to quit smoking for good.
About the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers saving lives and fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society’s efforts have contributed to a 20 percent decline in cancer death rates in the U.S. since 1991, and a 50 percent drop in smoking rates. Thanks in part to our progress nearly 14 million Americans who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will celebrate more birthdays this year. We’re determined to finish the fight against cancer. We’re finding cures as the nation’s largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, ensuring people facing cancer have the help they need and continuing the fight for access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air, and more. For more information, to get help, or to join the fight, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.
LANSING, Mich. – In honor of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminds veterans that Michigan offers more than two dozen veteran license plates recognizing their service protecting the freedoms Americans hold dear.
“Michigan is proud to be home to hundreds of thousands of courageous veterans who have served in our nation’s armed forces and who deserve our utmost respect and admiration,” Johnson said. “One of the ways our state honors veterans is by offering special license plates that commemorate their service and remind the rest of us of their heroism.”
Each of the designations is available to qualifying veterans either on the white standard Pure Michigan license plate or the colorful Spectacular Peninsulas plate. Veterans can order their plate at any Secretary of State office or through the mail by downloading an application at Michigan.gov/sos and mailing it in. They can also see what their plate will look like before they order it by using the Plate It Your Way service at ExpressSOS.com.
Most plates are also available to the spouses of veterans for their vehicles. One plate, the Gold Star Family Plate, is available to immediate family members of military personnel who lost their lives in combat.
Six of the military service plates also are offered as motorcycle plates: Air Force Veteran, Army Veteran, Coast Guard Veteran, Marine Corps Veteran, National Guard Veteran and Navy Veteran.
Three plates feature logos of medals and are available to men and women who earned the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal or the Vietnam Service Medal and their spouses.
Michigan also offers a Veterans Memorial fundraising plate, which has a military dog tags logo and the words “Lest We Forget” at the bottom of the plate. The plate benefits the Vietnam Veterans Memorial monument in Lansing. Johnson supports legislation that would create a fundraising license plate to benefit veteran outreach and tuition-assistance programs.
Johnson has unveiled a number of initiatives in support of the 680,000 veterans who call Michigan home:
Creating a veteran designation on driver’s licenses and state ID cards that helps identify Michigan veterans so they can be connected with the benefits they have earned and deserved. To date, more than 200,000 veterans have applied.
Pushing new ways to ensure that military personnel have their votes counted on Election Day, such as successfully advocating to extend a federal write-in ballot to state and local races.
Waiving road tests for veterans applying for a Commercial Driver License to help their transition to civilian life if they have sufficient heavy truck experience in the military.
Offering more than two dozen military license plates that are available for veterans and their spouses, allowing them to display their service with pride.
Veteran/military service plates are available with the following designations (Most plates are also available to the spouses of veterans for their vehicles except where indicated by an asterisk):
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is committed to providing state of the art facilities for its passengers, and the Airport will do just that by investing to improve its facilities with future projects. GFIA’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which was approved by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Board at today’s meeting, will include projects from 2015 through 2020 that total over $95 million.
The anticipated CIP includes a substantial investment in the construction of the Consolidated Checkpoint & Marketplace, reconstruction of the terminal apron, a master plan update, and reconstruction of the North and East Parking Lots. In addition, the plan includes resurfacing a portion of the airfield Perimeter Road, and mid-term maintenance items associated with the public parking structure.
The GFIA board approved the 2015 amended capital budget at $36,273,585, the 2016 capital budget of $18,838,500, and the five-year capital plan for years 2016-2020 of $59,728,400. The total investment for the six year plan tallies $96,001,958, with project estimates calculated in 2015 dollars.
“This investment in airport infrastructure clarifies our commitment to providing West Michigan travelers an airport gateway that not only accommodates increasing activity, but are also reflective of the West Michigan culture and community.” said Brian Ryks, GFIA Executive Director.
“We will continue to make improvements in our facility to make traveling comfortable, convenient, customer-friendly and cost-effective. Today’s approval from the airport board solidifies that commitment for our region’s travelers.”
The CIP is required to be submitted to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Office of Aeronautics, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on an annual basis.
Just in time for the holidays, Mary Poppins soars onto Grand Rapids Civic Theater’s stage, reminding us all about the important things in life: love and family.
November 14, 2014 through December 14, 2014, this beloved children’s story comes to life for the first time ever on Civic’s stage. Grand Rapids Civic Theater was only one of six community theaters in the country given the rights to perform Mary Poppins.
Alyssa Bauer as Mary Poppins
The seasoned cast includes Civic alum, Alyssa Bauer who transforms herself from perky wife and mother into the proper, boot and hat wearing nanny, Mary Poppins. Her sweet, yet powerful songs will have you believing that a spoonful of sugar will make the medicine go down. You may recognize her from her previous roles at the Civic including Cinderella in Cinderella, Maria in The Sound of Music, Martha Washington in 1776 and Mary Hatch in A Wonderful Life.
Villainous nanny, Miss Andrews is played to perfection by Allyson Paris, a musical theater and voice teacher at Civic. Miss Andrews is hired to replace a missing Mary Poppins, but her tyrannical discipline style differs greatly from Mary’s sweet disposition. Watch for the funny, yet dramatic “duel” between Mary Poppins and Miss Andrews.
The accomplished and talented William Schutte plays Bert, Mary Poppins’s life-long friend. Schutte’s stage career has taken him around the world. He was also cast in the touring productions of A Chorus Line, Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita.
His accomplishments extend beyond the stage; for years Schutte has choreographed shows at Civic and has won a number of Grand Awards for his productions. His role in Mary Poppins will return him to the stage where his passion for tap and theater will surely shine.
Civic Theater being transported back to 1900’s London
Set design is another important piece of this spirited musical. Turning Civic Theater into 1900’s London is the work of scenic designer, David Len. Len uses a paintbrush with a four-foot bamboo extension to paint and splatter his way back to Edwardian London. Watching the backdrops come to life is an impressive show in itself.
The dancing penguins from the movie are absent in the play, but there are however statues that come to life. This holds true to the book series, Mary Poppins, written by P. L. Travers.
Auditions for the show were particularly difficult because performers needed to have singing, acting and tap dancing skills; the triple threat. Tap dancing is a bit of a lost art in the new millennium, but who knows, Civic’s four week run of Mary Poppins may just have Grand Rapids residents tap dancing in the streets.
Tickets are available on line at http://www.grct.org/purchasetickets.html or by calling (888) 695-0888. Grand Rapids Civic Theater also offers a number of ticket packages on their website.
GRANDVILLE, Mich. – Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, will honor the contributions of those who serve with their Hometown Heroes Celebration beginning Saturday, November 8th and running through Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11th.
The Hometown Heroes event will recognize the sacrifice and dedication of those who protect and serve our country and communities every day.
Cabela’s Grandville will honor their heroes’ contributions by offering a 10% discount on everything in the store (excluding firearms) and a 5% discount on firearms, to all veterans and active duty military and reserve, law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel.
To participate in the Hometown Heroes Celebration, veterans and active duty military, reserve, law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel should present their service identification to any cashier upon checkout during the event. Upon doing so, they will receive their Hometown Heroes discount on virtually everything in the store. Some restrictions apply; see store for complete details.
In conjunction with the hometown heroes’ celebration, Cabela’s will welcome the city of Grandville Fire Department Saturday, November 8th for three sessions of fire and home safety classes. Classes will be held at 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. and cover a wide range of important information every family should know to keep their home safe this holiday season. Plus, there will be a fire truck on display outside the front of the store during their visit.
For more information about Cabela’s Hometown Heroes Event, visit www.cabelas.com/grandville. Cabela’s is located at 3000 44th St. SW. Grandville, MI 49418
Kent District LibraryNovember 2014 Calendar of Events • 784-2007Visit www.kdl.org for more programs and information. If you want to learn the latest programming highlights from Kent District Library–keep this schedule handy. Everything from book discussions, computer classes, and story times. A little something for everyone! Please visit www.kdl.org for more information.For Children and FamiliesSensational Senses! See, hear, smell, touch, taste! Come join us as we explore the world through our five sensational senses! For ages 6 and younger. Monday, November 3, 9:45 AM, 11:00 AM and 7:00 PM – Plainfield Township Branch Wednesday, November 5, 9:45 AM – Plainfield Township Branch Wednesday, November 5, 10:00 AM – Gaines Township Branch Thursday, November 6, 9:45 AM – Plainfield Township Branch Monday, November 10, 9:45 AM and 10:30 AM – Walker Branch Wednesday, November 12, 10:00 AM – Walker Branch Thursday, November 13, 6:00 PM – Spencer Township Branch Thursday, November 13, 6:30 PM – Caledonia Township Branch Tuesday, November 18, 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch Wednesday, November 19, 10:00 AM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch Thursday, November 20, 10:00 AM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch Fall Mixed Up! Leaves float up and squirrels fly south! Celebrate this topsy-turvy season with zany stories, songs and activities centered around the book Fall Mixed Up by Bob Raczka. For ages 6 and younger. Wednesday, November 5, 10:00 AM – Tyrone Township Branch Monday, November 10, 10:30 AM – Alto Branch Tuesday, November 11, 6:30 PM – Comstock Park Branch Wednesday, November 12, 10:30 AM – Comstock Park Branch Michigan Reads Celebration Celebrate the 2014 Michigan Reads book, Acoustic Rooster and His Barnyard Band by Kwame Alexander, with crafts and activities. For ages 6 and younger. Thursday, November 6, 10:00 AM – Englehardt Branch Saturday, November 8, 10:30 AM – Gaines Township Branch Monday, November 10, 6:30 PM – Byron Township Branch Tuesday, November 11, 1:00 PM – Byron Township Branch Tuesday, November 18, 10:00 AM – Alpine Township Branch Wednesday, November 19, 10:00 AM – Caledonia Township Branch Get Revved Up Interested in cars? Want to learn how an engine works? Create your own rubber band car, help us build an engine model and even design a sketch of your own style of car or truck. For all ages. Saturday, November 8, 2:00 PM – Byron Township Branch Tuesday, November 18, 6:30 PM – Englehardt Branch Saturday, November 29, 2:00 PM – Comstock Park Branch 3Doodler Dream It, Draw It Have you ever wished your drawings could come to life? Now they can! With the use of the 3Doodler, create simple 3D objects from your own imagination or use some of the provided stencils. Pre-registration is required and spots are limited. For all ages. Tuesday, November 11, 6:30 PM – Englehardt Branch Saturday, November 15, 2:00 PM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch Saturday, November 22, 10:30 AM – Sand Lake/Nelson Township Branch Thankful for You Day KDL is wrapping up nearly two years of our Happiness Project with a major celebration of the folks who most make us happy — our customers! Help us celebrate YOU with treats, fun, entertainment and surprises during each of our 18 branch celebrations. For all ages. Saturday, November 15, 11:00 AM – Tyrone Township Branch Wednesday, November 19, 10:30 AM – Comstock Park Branch Friday, November 21, 3:00 PM – Grandville Branch Saturday, November 22, 10:30 AM – Plainfield Township Branch Saturday, November 22, 10:30 AM – Sand Lake/Nelson Township Branch Saturday, November 29, 2:00 PM – Byron Township Branch Meet the Author: Tuesday Tucks MeIn with Luis Carlos Montalvan Join us for a visit with author Luis Carlos Montalvan and his service dog Tuesday as they talk about animal assisted therapy, the human/animal bond and their own heartwarming story. As narrated by Tuesday, Tuesday Tucks Me In is a typical day in the life of this service dog extraordinaire and tail-wagging ambassador for all things positive and uplifting in the world. For all ages. Saturday, November 22, 10:30 AM – Plainfield Township Branch Sunday, November 23, 2:00 PM – Cascade Township Branch For Teens Grades 6–12Write Michigan Short Story Workshop for Teens Delve into the world of creative writing by exploring different techniques and short story ideas. This workshop offers the opportunity to share your work with other aspiring writers. Pre-registration is required and participant spots are limited. Saturday, November 8, 1:30 PM – Sand Lake/Nelson Township Branch Tuesday, November 18, 3:30 PM – Wyoming Branch Stop-Motion Animation Workshop Love animation? Want to make your own animated films? Let loose your creativity at this fun-filled, half-day workshop by bringing found objects or 2D puppets to life. This hands-on experience will teach you the basics of stop-motion animation including adding sound elements. All technology and software is provided. Pre-registration is required and participant spots are limited. Saturday, November 15, 12:30 PM – Cascade Township Branch For Adults Future Proof Retirement Planning Kelly Gilbert and Steve Kitchen, authors of Future Proof Investing, will teach participants to make financial decisions based upon their own goals and objectives. In keeping with KDL policy, this is not a sales seminar, but an informational program about different models of retirement planning and how to save and protect funds for an attainable and sustainable retirement. Saturday, November 1, 2:00 PM – Gaines Township Branch Early Childhood Essentials: Money and Economic Skills for Preschoolers Learn ways to grow children’s knowledge about money and economics that will help prepare them for kindergarten and for life. Session offers one hour of professional development. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Adults only please; child care is not provided. Sponsored by Great Start CONNECT. Monday, November 3, 6:30 PM – Krause Memorial Branch Herbal Holiday Gifts Learn a variety of ways to use herbs and essential oils to make gifts for every occasion! We start out by discussing (and sharing!) some tasty foods that can be packaged as gifts. This is followed by ideas for using essential oils to make bath sachets, oils, bath salts and more. Pre-registration is required and participant spots are limited. For adults. Wednesday, November 5, 6:30 PM – Plainfield Township Branch Thursday, November 6, 6:30 PM – Byron Township Branch Tuesday, November 11, 6:30 PM – East Grand Rapids Branch Wednesday, November 12, 6:30 PM – Englehardt Branch (Lowell) Monday, November 17, 6:30 PM – Grandville Branch Tuesday, November 18, 6:30 PM – Wyoming Branch Thursday, November 20, 6:30 PM – Spencer Township Branch Early Childhood Essentials: Appropriate Technology with Young Children In this interactive session early childhood professionals will explore how technology can be used to help young children learn. We will review guidelines for quality technology experiences and will evaluate several early childhood applications and websites. Bring your questions and learn more about technology used with children. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Adults only please; child care is not provided. Sponsored by Great Start CONNECT. Saturday, November 8, 10:00 AM – Caledonia Township Branch Early Childhood Essentials: Selective Screen Time Video games, apps and television have become a normal part of childhood starting from a young age. How does it affect brain development? Is too much a bad thing, or will it give kids a competitive edge? Join Spectrum Health Community Health Educator Kim DeLaFuente and learn the truth about the impact of screen time on growing brains and bodies. Session offers one hour of professional development. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Adults only please; child care is not provided. Sponsored by Great Start CONNECT. Saturday, November 8, 11:30 AM – Caledonia Township Branch Chocolate Making with Polly Von Eschen Rockford’s very own chocolatier, Polly Von Eschen, will discuss the history of chocolate, different types of chocolate, and the basics of creating your very own delicacies at home. Sponsored by the Friends of the Krause Memorial Library. Monday, November 10, 6:30 PM – Krause Memorial Branch Early Childhood Essentials: Discipline with Fewer Tears What are the roots of misbehavior and how can we help young children self regulate their behavior? In this session you will learn how to use choice consequence and positive reinforcement to eliminate power struggles and tears. This is a standalone session but early childhood professionals will gain valuable and applicable background knowledge by attending the “Fostering Goodness” workshop held earlier in the season. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Adults only please; child care is not provided. Sponsored by Great Start CONNECT. Monday, November 10, 6:30 PM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch Thursday, November 13, 6:30 PM – Byron Township Branch Tuesday, November 18, 6:30 PM – Walker Branch Successful Aging An expert on life enrichment in the home from Clark at Home will discuss factors linked to successful aging, including having an active lifestyle, positive coping skills, good social relationships and support, as well as self-efficacy. Miranda will discuss creative ways to adapt to each of these areas as one meets the changing demands of adulthood, focusing on the best quality of life for any individuals. Tuesday, November 18, 6:30 PM – Walker Branch Fall into Poetry Sunday Series Connect with some of our area’s most renowned poets on the 4th Sunday of September, October, and November. This month’s featured poets: “Two Cool Dudes”: GF Korreck and Todd Kanenko will conspire to entertain with their sometimes witty, always insightful poetry. Presented by the Friends of the Kentwood Library. For adults and teens. Sunday, November 23, 2:00 PM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch
For every plate bought, $25 goes to Ducks Unlimited
Secretary of State Ruth Johnson is encouraging motorists to purchase the new Ducks Unlimited fundraising plate, adding that the revenue generated from the sales will profit more than just ducks.
“The new Ducks Unlimited license plate supports conservation and outreach activities that highlight the importance of wetlands,” Johnson said. “Wetlands are essential not only to waterfowl but to the millions of Michigan residents who depend on them for clean drinking water, recreation and more.”
Motorists purchasing a Ducks Unlimited plate will pay $35 in addition to any regular registration fees that are due; $25 of the $35 will go to Ducks Unlimited. When the plate is renewed, an additional $10 is collected and sent to the cause. The Ducks Unlimited plates may also be personalized for a fee, giving motorists another opportunity to showcase their support.
Secretary of State Ruth Johnson promotes new Ducks Unlimited plate as beneficial to entire state
“We’re really pleased to see the license plates available for sale,” said Pete Albrecht, state chair of Michigan Ducks Unlimited. “Michiganders have real pride in their waterfowl heritage and the habitat in which waterfowl flourish. This is another way to express that pride and put money back into Michigan wetland habitat conservation at the same time.”
The Ducks Unlimited plates went on sale last month. Plates may be purchased at any Secretary of State office, or by mail using the online fillable form on the Secretary of State website.
Michigan’s marshes and wetlands provide food and shelter to hundreds of species of ducks, geese and swans. Wetlands play an important role for waterfowl, but they also are beneficial to humans by reducing floods, filtering pollutants out of the water, recharging underground water supplies, and providing great commercial and recreational value to the economy.
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 13 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Visit its website at www.ducks.org for more information.
Citizen Journalists Carol and Paul Hillman review Broadway Grand Rapids’ Production of Once. They want to see it twice.
It’s not your typical Broadway musical. It’s all about the story. And what a story it is.
ONCE tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs
“Once” is a singular play, but in a way, this is “Once” twice. The title, story, and Grammy nominated music was derived from the 2007 movie of the same name.
Tuesday night’s performance of “Once” at DeVos Performance Hall was the second offering of the Broadway Grand Rapids season. It played to a nearly sold-out crowd. Despite the name, the show is certainly good enough to see twice! Some say this is a stage play integrated seamlessly with compelling songs. Others claim it is a musical telling a story of love played between two stellar performers. Either way, the audience is treated to a performance of NYC caliber actors, musicians, and singers.
The audience knows that something is immediately different when entering the auditorium. Seeing an Irish Public House as the set prior to the performance is not particularly unusual. However, allowing the audience to step up to the stage, buy pre-performance drinks from the working pub, and wandering about the set prior to the opening is quite exceptional. Soon the on stage audience members are joined by half a dozen Celtic fiddle, mandolin, accordion, and guitar musicians. Several traditional Irish tunes are offered to both the audience on stage and those just getting to their seats prior to the “official” start of Act 1.
The staging brings us all together in a common setting and experience. Slowly and unobtrusively audience members return to their seats all while more performers appear on stage. Gradually the house lights dim as the audience is warmly pulled into the pub to watch the story begin.
Most of the tale is told in Billy’s instrument store. But via lighting and minimalistic staging, scenes easily flow from store to home, to appliance repair shop, and then back again. All the time players moving between acting, playing, singing, or quietly functioning as stage crew.
Each of the dozen players demonstrated solid instrumental, vocal, and acting skills. Several players reveal proficiency on multiple instruments. The male and female leads, whose characters are only known as “Guy” and “Girl”, are played by Stuart Ward and Dani de Waal. These two must have been cast for their parts due to their obvious onstage chemistry. Both have extraordinary voices which are matched only by their amazing acting. Each are nearly flawless in their performance.
They play a conflicted couple who struggle with their growing feelings for each other while still trying to honor the relationships they have previously established with others. While never fully stated, the title of the play may possibly refer to the singular time these two will be together in the few days they share in this story.
Several numbers must be called out as special. The audience will surely recognize “Falling Slowly” from the movie. The piece won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Both in the first act and again as a reprise, the song is poignant without being sugary sweet.
While generally a serious and lovely story, there are plenty of laughs and giggles available, not the least of which when “Guy” sings “Broken Hearted Hoover Fixer Sucker Guy”.
In my opinion, the pinnacle of all the musical numbers is the second act a Capella reprise of “Gold”. The instruments are silent, but the voices aren’t. Each character slowly joins the next in a rich wave of sound providing exceptionally tight harmonies and intricate moving vocals. At the climatic end of the song, the 2,000+ attendees are intimately captivated and absolutely silent.
“Once” is not to be missed. Not once; not at all!
Tickets are on sale now! Tickets are available at the DeVos Place® convention center and Van Andel Arena® box offices, Ticketmaster ticket centers, online at Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 1-800-982-2787.
The Veteran’s Memorial Garden of the City of Wyoming began in 1995, as a vision of area veteran’s groups. With the assistance of many supporters, the City was able to complete the first phase of this beautiful garden when they dedicated the memorial walkway to all branches of the armed forces. Nestled adjacent to the Wyoming Police Department on DeHoop Avenue, north of 28th Street, the garden has quickly become a visible symbol of our tribute to those who have honorably served our nation in peace time and in war.
The “Walk of Honor” is a beautiful walkway that serves as a reminder of those individuals who have given of themselves and answered the call of duty so that we might continue to enjoy the freedoms with which we are blessed. Along this walkway are monuments dedicated to each war that our country has faced, starting with the Revolutionary War. Bricks engraved with veteran’s names from each era surround these monuments.
Wyoming’s Veteran’s Memorial Garden Walk of Honor
These bricks are placed twice a year: once in the spring for Memorial Day and once in the fall for Veteran’s Day. It is hoped that this Walk of Honor will continue to grow and that it will not only serve as a place to honor veterans, but that it will also become an educational walkway for the greater community.
Memorial Bricks are $40.00 each, and this includes engraving and placement. If you are interested in purchasing a brick in order to honor a veteran, please do one of the following:
Open the link in a new tab
Print and complete the form
Return it with a check or money order to:
Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department
1155 – 28th Street SW
P.O. Box 905
Wyoming, MI 49509-0905
Complete and submit the online application Online Memorial Brick Application
When submitting your application, please be aware that orders take 6 to 8 weeks for the bricks to be completed and shipped. April 1 is the deadline for a brick to be placed for Memorial Day and September 1 is the deadline for a brick to be placed for Veteran’s Day. If you have any questions or need assistance in completing the application, please call the the Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department at (616) 530-3164.
43 years. 16 hour workdays. 9 restaurants. 2 franchises. Zero vacations.
That’s Tommy Brann by the numbers, and you can add one extraordinary work ethic on top of that impressive stack.
As the President of Brann’s Steakhouse, Tommy Brann has been integral to West Michigan and this fall he was awarded the Marge Wilson Community Leadership Award for his contributions and involvement within the community.
“Tommy was nominated because of his community involvement and his concern for our veterans,” stated Marge Wilson of Marge’s Doughnut Den.
Tommy Brann and Marge Wilson
Brann’s efforts include the GRCC Scholarship Fund, donating $15,000 to the Veterans Park in Grand Rapids, donating another $7,500 to the Wyoming Police Department, and ‘You Deserve a Break’ which provides meals to those in tough times.
On top of the charitable donations, Brann has created hundreds of jobs throughout West Michigan with his restaurants. His work ethic has built a business that allows others to show off their work ethic in order to make a living. Brann attributes all of his working acumen to his father, the founder of Brann’s Steakhouse.
“I started working for my dad in his restaurant when I was 15. When I was 17, I moved out of the the house and into an apartment above my dad’s restaurant,” Brann told WKTV, “I worked so much that I never used my car. I was either at the restaurant or asleep. My best friend, who was also my roommate, actually had my car key copied and would use my car without me ever knowing!”
While work has been his life, lately Tommy has been thinking about his legacy. How will he be remembered beyond Brann’s Steakhouse?
Running a business teaches a lot of lessons, and Tommy has written them all down in his first book titled Mind Your Own Business.
The book covers 13 of Tommy’s lessons about running a small business. Lessons range from managing the actual business to managing those inside, customers and employees both, who make the business run.
Tommy is also a proponent of free enterprise and would like to see it emphasized more in schools. His brainchild is a mentor system that would help at risk 12-13 year old kids by introducing them to free enterprise. The children would work a supervised 6-8 hours per week at $4.25 per hour during normal school time.
Brann’s eyes get big and the excitement picks up when he describes his idea, “When they receive their first paycheck, one that they earned, it will show them the benefits of hard work. That hard work does pay off.”
Tommy’s book Mind Your Own Business is available at Meijer and Schuler’s Bookstore.
For a man as successful as Tommy Brann, what’s his secret? “My biggest fear is letting somebody down,” Brann exclaims.
Well Tommy, you’re too busy picking everyone up to let them down.
Ethnic clashes. The Black Panthers. Urban renewal. The Daley Machine. Chicago, Illinois was a turbulent town in the 1960s and 70s. Join us as we talk to Puerto Rican-born civil rights activist José “Cha-Cha” Jimenez. He shares with Alan his personal experience with drugs, street gangs, and the social and political forces that shaped a major U.S. city.
Feel Like You Belong air on WKTV. You can find their webpage here.
LANSING, Mich. – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminds residents that, in honor of Veterans Day, all Secretary of State offices and the Office of the Great Seal will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11. She also encouraged people to thank veterans for their service and sacrifice.
“I had a rare opportunity to visit our troops in the Middle East in 2012 to study how to make overseas voting easier for those in the military,” Johnson said. “I will never forget the sense of honor, duty and patriotism that those young men and women displayed in spite of the terrible conditions. We owe everyone who has ever served this country a great debt for their service and sacrifice.”
Michigan is home to more than 680,000 veterans, the 11th largest population nationally. Given the great number of veterans who live here, Johnson has unveiled a number of initiatives in support of them:
Creating a veteran designation on driver’s licenses and state ID cards that helps identify Michigan veterans so they can be connected with the benefits they have earned and deserved.
Pushing new ways to ensure that military personnel have their votes counted on Election Day, such as successfully advocating to extend a federal write-in ballot to state and local races.
Waiving road tests for veterans applying for a Commercial Driver License to help their transition to civilian life if they have sufficient heavy truck experience in the military.
Offering more than two dozen military license plates that are available for veterans and their spouses, allowing them to display their service with pride.
The Secretary of State will be close on Veterans Day
“Patriotism and service run deep in Michigan,” Johnson added. “This Veterans Day, take a moment to thank a vet for his or her service.”
Because of the Veterans Day closure, Johnson recommends residents find alternate ways or days to get their Secretary of State business done.
Most people renewing license plates and driver’s licenses and ID cards can do business online at www.ExpressSOS.com. For example, plates can be renewed at www.ExpressSOS.com with Print ‘N Go technology that allows users to buy their tabs online and print a receipt to carry with them until their tabs arrive in the mail. Easy to follow instructions can be found with the renewal notice. In addition to renewing driver’s licenses and plates online, www.ExpressSOS.com customers also can submit changes of address, renew or replace vehicle and watercraft registrations, request duplicate titles and enroll to be organ donors.
Licenses and plates that expire on a day when state offices are closed, such as a holiday or weekend, may be renewed the following day without penalty.
License plate tabs also can be renewed at Self-Service Stations, many of which are available around the clock. Visit the Branch Office Locator at www.michigan.gov/sos to find a Self-Service Station near you.
Originally known as Armistice Day, this special Nov. 11 holiday was first celebrated in 1919 to recognize the men and women who died during World War 1. In 1938, it became an official federal holiday. The name was changed to Veterans Day in the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War to commemorate veterans of all wars.
The Meijer LPGA is coming back to Blythefield Country Club
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – After a successful inaugural tournament that generated $600,000 for food pantries across the Midwest, the Meijer LPGA Classic presented by Kraft will return to Grand Rapids in 2015 for another week of community events and the best women golfers in the world.
The tournament will be held July 20-26, 2015 at Blythefield Country Club, and will once again benefit the retailer’s Simply Give program that restocks the shelves of food pantries across the Midwest.
During the inaugural tournament Aug. 7-10, the crowds exceeded expectations with more than 40,000 spectators coming out for the week. Rookie superstar Mirim Lee claimed her first LPGA Tour victory with a birdie on the second hole of a playoff against fellow South Korean Inbee Park.
“The success of the Meijer LPGA Classic presented by Kraft greatly exceeded our expectations, and afforded us an unmatched opportunity to raise awareness and funding for hunger relief in the Midwest,” Meijer President J.K. Symancyk said. “The community really embraced this tournament, and we look forward to bringing another exciting event to them next year.”
The praise for the inaugural event didn’t stop at the monetary impact on the hungry; it made a tremendous impact on the LPGA professionals during their week in Grand Rapids.
Runner-up Inbee Park noticed the crowds cheering her on throughout the week.
“I was really surprised how they love golf here in Michigan and how supportive they were,” Park said. “I’m very thankful that they are supporting golf and women’s golf.”
Stacy Lewis saw the value in adding locations like Grand Rapids to the LPGA schedule.
“I think just by the fans and all the crowds we’ve had this week, it shows that we need to be here,” said Lewis, the No. 1 ranked player in the world during the Meijer LPGA Classic. “We had a great first year.”
Some even spoke on the excitement for years to come.
“This was a first-class event,” Suzann Pettersen said. “The venue, great golf course. I’m happy to be back here next year.”
Visit MeijerLPGAClassic.com for updates and announcements about next year’s tournament.
Tuesday is Election Day and I hope to see a sea of “I voted” stickers across the state.
This badge of honor comes to those who cast their ballot at the polls, making their voice heard.
In Michigan’s last gubernatorial election in 2010, just 42 percent of registered voters in Michigan cast a ballot. In the August primary, only 18.1 percent – less than one in five of all eligible residents – voted.
It’s my hope in every election that more of us will turn out to exercise one of our most precious freedoms.
Voting is an opportunity to help decide matters that truly impact your life, questions like “What’s best for my community?” and “What’s best for our state?” or “Who should our leaders be?” and “What taxes should I have to pay?”
I’m proud that my office was named No. 1 in the country for getting voters registered. In fact, Michigan’s voter registration is about 98 percent of eligible adults.
But as citizens, we need to do better. Whatever our political views, the more of us who are involved, who are engaged and who are paying attention make this state and this country work better. Voting makes government more accountable to the people it serves.
If you need another reason, ask a veteran. Courageous men and women have sacrificed so much to ensure that each of us has that right to vote.
A wonderful way to see all that is at stake in this November election is to take look at a sample ballot, available through the online Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote. You can confirm you are registered, see a sample ballot for your community, find out how to contact your local clerk or track your absentee ballot.
The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday. And if you don’t think you can make it to the polls, qualified voters can vote absentee. Just contact your local clerk for information.
Your vote is your voice. Let it be heard loud and clear on Election Day.
No cameras, campaign-related materials allowed in polling places
LANSING, Mich. – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson is reminding voters of some of the general rules surrounding voter conduct at the polls.
“In order to ensure election integrity and follow Michigan law, we’re reminding voters about what is allowed in and around the polling place,” Johnson said. “As always, all registered voters are encouraged to go to the polls, cast a ballot, and have their voice heard on Election Day.”
Some Election Day reminders:
Photographing ballots: The use of video cameras, still cameras and other recording devices are prohibited in the polls when they are open for voting. This includes still cameras and other recording features built into many cell phones. The ban applies to all voters, challengers, poll watchers and election workers. Exceptions are made for credentialed members of the news media though certain restrictions remain. Photos of ballots should not be posted on social media. Additionally, under Michigan election law, a ballot is rejected if deliberately exposed. A voter who deliberately exposes their ballot will not be allowed to vote in that election.
Displaying campaign-related materials at the polls: Michigan has prohibited this practice for decades. This includes clothing and buttons worn by voters as well as material such as pamphlets, fliers and stickers. You may not display such items in the polling place or within 100 feet of an entrance to a polling place. If a voter goes to the polls with a T-shirt or button bearing campaign-related images or slogans, he or she will be asked to cover or remove it.
Voter identification: You will be asked for photo ID when you enter the polls. If you do not have a photo ID or did not bring it with you, you will be asked to sign an affidavit attesting to your identity, and then you can vote. Your ballot will be counted alongside all others on Election Day.
Voting a straight-party ticket: At the top of each political party’s column on the ballot, there is an opportunity to vote “straight” party, which selects all candidates on that party’s ticket with a single vote. If you vote straight party, there is no need to vote again for any individual candidate in the party column. However, if you do vote straight party and then vote for an individual candidate in that same party, it will not invalidate your vote for that candidate.
Split-ticket voting: You may “split” your ticket, which means you may vote for candidates of different parties, in the Nov. 4 general election. This differs from the August primary in which you must confine your votes to a single party column. Voters, however, must still be careful not to vote for more candidates than are allowed in specific races. Even if you vote a “straight” ticket, you may cross over and vote for candidates of a different party.
Voting the entire ballot: You are not required to vote the entire ballot. You may pick and choose the races or ballot questions for which you want to vote. Skipping sections of the ballot does not invalidate your ballot.
Electronic pollbook: Voters will notice election workers using electronic or e-pollbooks when checking in voters at the polls. These are specially programmed laptop computers that replaced the bulky paper lists of voters that were used for decades. Election workers using e-pollbooks will ask for your driver’s license, which can then be swiped through a special reader. If you would prefer, you may have the election inspector enter your name manually. The swiping machine does not retain data but simply allows election workers to access basic information, including your name and address, quickly.
Mayor Stephen Kepley is excited about bringing news businesses to Kentwood.
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley has a list. He refers to it as “The Fun 5.” This is in reference to his business plan of bringing in five of his most-wanted businesses for the city of Kentwood. He has already succeeded in bringing in one on the list. Dave & Buster’s, a restaurant/arcade, will open on 28th Street SE sometime in the late spring of 2015.
“I am so thrilled they will be here in West Michigan and in Kentwood,” Kepley enthusiastically explained. “They are like an Adult Chucky Cheese and I have had lots of fun there. I can’t wait to be a customer.”
The other four businesses that are on his list– and may grace our community one day– are Chick-fil-A, The Cheesecake Factory, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods Market.
Kepley and his staff serve as trouble shooters to prospective business owners.
“We are a help not a hinderance,” he said. “We know the codes and ordinances—we try to become consultants and problem solvers. We don’t want to waste time and money for prospective clients or have them spinning their wheels.”
There is a positive movement in the City of Kentwood and Kepley is behind it. He is extremely optimistic about bringing new businesses to the area. He says that the deals are not simple and working with national firms can be a challenge.
Kepley is staying true to his campaign promise of bringing 400 new jobs to the area in 4 years. It is a goal, he strives for on a daily basis.
And for now, he whittles away on his “FUN 5” list one business at a time.
Mayor Stephen Kepley addresses his business plan to WKTV Community Staff members Mike DeWitt and Colleen Pierson
Balance need improving? Need to get in shape? Think you have two left feet? Improve your balance, grace, and blood pressure by reading about this opportunity:
Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB) has introduced an Adult Ballet Class for active individuals and dance admirers looking to exercise. Come in and learn about all the ways ballet can help you stay fit. This class is open to all ranges, abilities and experience levels. The program focuses on: Ballet Technique, Stretching, and Conditioning. Don’t hesitate to bring a friend, the first class is FREE!
This class focuses not only on ballet technique, but also on core strengthening and muscle conditioning. Studies have proven that ballet dancers train and perform on a level equal to professional football players. In ballet, all of your muscles are actively engaged in movement, providing you with greater flexibility, and exercising the brain. Beyond that, you build self-confidence, grow artistically, and relieve stress.
“Ballet is more than just moving and turning” said Artistic Director Patricia Barker. “Ballet provides the poise and presence needed to command both on and off the stage by instilling a sense of accomplishment that improves your outlook on life.”
Classes are held at the Meijer-Royce Center for Dance, home of the Grand Rapids Ballet, located at 341 Ellsworth SW. Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:30pm-7:45pm.
For more information on Grand Rapids Ballet, visit www.grballet.com or connect with them on Facebook.
Grand Rapids Ballet
Celebrating its 43rd anniversary this season, the Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB) remains committed to lifting the human spirit through the art of dance. A proud recipient of the ArtServe Michigan Governor’s Arts Award for Outstanding Cultural Organization, Michigan’s only professional ballet company has a rich history marked by steady growth, a commitment to excellence, and strong community support.
The Grand Rapids Public Library will honor the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) October 31-November 2, 2014. Altars celebrating the lives of those who have passed away will be on view. Over 20 community-built altars honoring those who have died will be on display.
Día de los Muetros is a Mexican holiday that honors family and friends who have passed on. Loved ones come together to build an altar, or ofrenda, that celebrate the life and memory of the dead. The day is a time of celebration and joy, filled with talk and memories of those who have died. On the ofrenda many significant objects are placed as gifts to the deceased loved ones. The altar holds four important elements: water, wind, fire and earth. These are represented by a pitcher or glass; candles; papel picado (punched paper); and food, usually pan de muetro. Other items seen on altars include sugar skulls, flowers, photos and religious items.
The altars, built by local residents who want to share the memory of their family and friends will be on display Friday, October 31 – Sunday November 2. Every altar is unique and taken together create a fascinating portrait of what the citizens of Grand Rapids hold close to them.
The library will a Family Day during Día de los Muetros on Sunday, November 2 from 1:00 – 3:00. There will be educational activities for families including sugar skill decorating, face painting, crafts and light refreshments. Local author and altar creator Roberta King will read from her book He Plays a Harp and discuss her altar she created honoring her son, the subject of her book.
The Day of the Dead program and altars will be held at the Grand Rapids Public Library, 111 Library St. NE. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 616-988-5400 or visit our website at www.grpl.org. The Grand Rapids Public Library connects people to the transforming power of knowledge.
With so much beauty found in West Michigan, the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) wants you to show off what you love most about this beautiful side of the state and have your photo featured on the cover of WMTA’s 2015 Carefree Travel Guide!
The West Michigan Tourist Association’s Carefree Travel Guide is a longstanding travel publication dating back to 1918, with 150,000 copies printed and distributed throughout the Midwest every year.
Along with having their photograph published on the cover of the 2015 Carefree Travel Guide, the photographer of the winning photo will receive two nights of lodging in a Lakeview Hotel Guest Room and one Superticket Lift Ticket for two people at Shanty Creek Resorts (valid for the 2014-15 Snowsports Season. Expires March 22, 2015).
Located in Bellaire, MI, Shanty Creek Resorts is a beautiful Northern Michigan hotel and resort. They offer the thrills of adventure and the peace of a mountain retreat, with three distinctive villages surrounded by two picturesque mountains, a pristine lake and four lush golf courses. Open year-round, Shanty Creek is a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts.
Contest Details:
Accepted photo formats: High res .jpeg (300 dpi +) , .pdf, .tiff , .dng. Must be CMYK.
Photo Size: Keep in mind that photos will be cropped to 8.75 in width x 11.25 height if chosen for the cover.
In e-mailing of photo, include:
Full name City that the photograph was taken in Short description of the photo. Deadline: November 23, 2014
How to Enter:
E-mail all photos to Sarah@WMTA.org by November 23rd, 2014.
By entering the West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide Cover Photo Contest, entrants agree to the rules and the decisions of the judges and further agree to allow the West Michigan Tourist Association to use their names and photos for marketing purposes without compensation.
Entrants must be at least 18 years old. Good Luck!
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market announced last week that Slows Bar-B-Q, the nationally renowned barbecue joint based in Detroit, will open a new, full-service, barbeque restaurant inside the Downtown Market. It is the first restaurant to commit to the Market, and the restaurant’s first expansion outside of Detroit.
Slows Bar-B-Q Grand Rapids will be located in the Market’s southeast side, at the corner of Ionia and Logan streets. It will feature a similar menu to the Detroit location, including slow-cooked barbecue favorites such as brisket, ribs, pulled pork, smoked turkey, jambalaya and more, along with several dozen Michigan-based artisan and craft beers on tap. The restaurant plans to open in spring 2015.
“Slows is a notable success in downtown Detroit. Its up-cycled atmosphere, delicious menu, commitments to their communities and their craft make them an ideal addition to the Downtown Market,” says Mimi Fritz, president and CEO of the Downtown Market. “Unlike any other place, the Market offers us the chance to know our food and the people who make it. We are thrilled to introduce Slows and their authentic take on barbeque to West Michigan.”
The Market is tasked to create a thriving ecosystem of food entrepreneurs who commit to locally produced ingredients and to community building. Created by owners, Chef Brian Perrone, Phillip Cooley and others, with the intention of becoming a neighborhood joint and a contributing force in the community, Slows has become the anchor of a neighborhood’s commercial revitalization and a Detroit destination.
“The Downtown Market is just the type of community-centered, neighborhood location that fits who we are,” says Brian Perrone, executive chef and co-founder. “We are completely devoted to barbecue — studying it, making it and teaching customers about the process. We are excited to join such a great group of artisans to create a friendly, welcoming, accessible and open environment.”
In addition to its restaurant space, Slows plans to expand its popular Slows-To-Go service, which includes catering. The program will launch with special events at the Downtown Market and plans to expand to serve a larger area in the future.
Slows opened in 2005 on Michigan Avenue, at the edge of downtown Detroit, in Corktown, across from the long-abandoned Michigan Central Station. Today it has become one of the most popular barbecue joints in Michigan and has received significant recognition in national food and entertainment media. It is owned by Brian Perrone, Phillip Cooley, Ron Cooley and Mike Metevia.
“If it’s possible for one restaurant to have done more than its share for Detroit, it’s Slows,” adds Fritz.
Construction on Slows’ Grand Rapids location will begin in early 2015. The restaurant plans to open in spring of 2015.
LANSING – Two of Michigan’s best-known brands – Michigan International Speedway and Pure Michigan – are extending their partnership to host the Pure Michigan 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, August 16, 2015.
“MIS is a premier Michigan destination with a strong tradition of promoting the tremendous assets our state has to offer businesses, residents and visitors alike,” said Lt. Governor Brian Calley. “We have seen great success with the Pure Michigan 400 in the past four years, and look forward to this next chapter in the partnership.”
Since 2011, the Pure Michigan 400 has proved to be an effective way to bring the Pure Michigan message to 75 million NASCAR fans nationwide. Further brand exposure has resulted from working with nationally recognized grand marshals, including Desmond Howard, Kid Rock, Carter Oosterhouse and Amy Smart and Olympic gold medalists Charlie White and Meryl Davis. Additionally, MEDC has been able to use the event to host business leaders and national site selectors to showcase the quality of life Michigan has to offer.
Pure Michigan and Michigan International Speedway (MIS) are extending their relationship.
“The Pure Michigan 400 is an opportunity to showcase all Michigan has to offer – from car culture and outdoor recreation to top destinations like MIS,” said Michael A. Finney, President and CEO of the MEDC. “Race day at MIS helps build on the sense of place that is Michigan and we are excited to be joining efforts to highlight Pure Michigan at the track and beyond for another year.”
Each year about 385,000 people visit MIS, generating an economic impact of more than $414 million. Nearly 60 percent of the guests on race weekends come from outside Michigan, making MIS the largest welcome center in the state.
The partnership joining these two brands, both focused on attracting new visitors to Michigan, continues what is believed to be the first time a state’s branding agency has sponsored NASCAR’s premier stock car series. The partnership includes title sponsorship of the August 16, 2015 Sprint Cup race with the option to extend the contract for two additional one-year periods.
In addition to its pair of race weekends, the track also hosts events as an innovative and diverse business, hospitality and entertainment venue, bringing several new events to Michigan in the past year.
“We are pleased to continue our partnership for the Pure Michigan 400 race in August,” MIS President Roger Curtis said. “The key to successful partnerships is finding organizations which have similar goals. Michigan International Speedway and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation want people to come to this state and see all the wonderful things it has to offer – beautiful landscapes, fun activities year-round and awesome NASCAR racing.”
Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan, a town of about 1,200, is one of only 23 facilities in the world to hold such an event. The racetrack seats more than 72,000 people in its grandstands, with tens of thousands of others in the infield, suites and campgrounds that will all be introduced to the Pure Michigan brand in August.
Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy.
For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit: michiganbusiness.org. For Michigan travel news, updates and information, visit michigan.org.
Nestled in the lush Irish Hills of Southeastern Michigan, Michigan International Speedway is NASCAR’s fastest track and the Great Escape, a venerable NASCAR national park where fans can get away and enjoy the very best in racing and camaraderie. It’s the love of racing and the thrill of a great time for race fans and drivers alike.
Keep up with Michigan International Speedway via Twitter @MISpeedway or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MISpeedway. Android and iPhone can now download Discover MIS, the official app of MIS, on Google Play and iTunes.
Join their Mobile Fan Club by texting MISCLUB on a Sprint Handheld or other mobile device to 69050. Standard text message rates may apply.
2015 Michigan International Speedway Schedule:
Saturday, May 9 Michigan Wine and Beer Fest presented by Experience Jackson
Friday, June 12 ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards Corrigan Oil 200 and Sprint Cup Qualifying
Saturday, June 13 NASCAR XFINITY Series
Sunday, June 14 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Quicken Loans 400
July 17-19 Faster Horses Festival
Friday, Aug. 14 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Practice and Qualifying
Saturday, Aug. 15 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Careers for Veterans 200 presented by The Cooper Standard Foundation & Brad Keselowski’s Checkered Flag Foundation
Sunday, Aug. 16 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pure Michigan 400
With curious faces, students in Kentwood Public Schools’ Newcomer Center Program greeted visitors to their classroom, some smiling shyly and others offering beaming grins.
The 5- to 7-year-olds were busy matching plastic letters to their friends’ names, learning the shapes and sounds of the English alphabet.
“Look at this!” yelled one student in accented English, as he showed his work to Miguelina Quinones, the program’s kindergarten through second-grade teacher.
The students have varying levels of English and school experience. They arrived from countries in Africa, Nepal, the Dominican Republic and several other places in recent months. Last year, students came from 17 countries and 17 native languages were spoken throughout the building. At Meadowlawn Elementary School, 33 percent of students are English learners. Many come from war-torn countries and have lived in refugee camps.
In the Newcomer classroom, one student was a little off task. “What do you have to do?” asked Quinones.
The boy paused to find the right word. “Listen,” he said, emphasizing both syllables.
Pictures, hand signals, letters, numbers and words, all taught by teachers and paraprofessionals devoted to helping immigrant children, are helping these youngsters learn English in preparation for enrollment in a regular classroom. The yearlong all-day program has allowed time allotted for English instruction to increase dramatically. Main focuses are speaking, reading, writing and listening skills.
Getting Them Off to A Good Start
The Newcomer Center Program is located at Meadowlawn for grades kindergarten through fifth, and at Crestwood Middle School for sixth- through eighth-graders. At Crestwood, about 40 students attend the program each year. Students there join regular classrooms for part of the day and focus separately on core subjects like reading and math.
Last school year, according to Meadowlawn Principal Michelle Downs, 54 percent of elementary students showed 1.5 to 2 years of reading growth as gauged by the Scholastic Reading Inventory program, and 46 percent showed .5 to 1 year of growth.
The Meadowlawn program draws from all 10 elementary schools, and after a year students start regular programs at their home schools. A total of about 75 elementary students will attend throughout the year, with students trickling in over the months.
Before the program started three years ago, students were receiving 150 hours of language instruction per year. They now receive more than 1,200.
“When you look at the difference in the number of minutes that these kids are getting in high-quality instruction, we’ve really turned the tide in giving these kids the foundation that they need to be successful back in their classrooms,” Downs said.
Students are also opening up more, she added.
“One of the the goals of this was providing an environment where kids felt safe enough to use the language and to learn, and to make mistakes. In an environment were everyone is learning English, kids are taking risks, speaking English at an earlier point.”
More Time = More Success
Newcomer Program student Paw Hyser Gay plays the ukulele Photos from School News Network
In the third-fifth-grade classroom, teacher Chellie Howard compared a student’s work from September to May. In the fall, the student, from Tanzania, had drawn a picture and written a few letters and numbers scattered around the page. In May, she titled her paper “Friendship” and wrote in sentences and paragraph form.
“Some of my students have never had the opportunity to go to school before in their lives,” Howard said. “I have third, fourth- and fifth-graders who have never had school, or have had refugee school and can sing the ABC song and that’s it. Their parents maybe have not had an opportunity to go to school. I can get third-graders who still don’t know how to write their name.”
Howard starts by teaching the alphabet, numbers and the names of items, as well as basic phrases, phonics and words students need to read by sight.
But students are also required to meet the same state content standards as all students in their grade level. Howard pointed to information on her walls on states of matter, molecules and scientific tools. They are learning language and grade-level content at the same time.
“By the end of the year they are reading, on average, at middle to end of first-grade level,” she said. “Some of them go higher. They know their letters and sounds; they can put together a simple story for me.”
Students also learn social skills, Downs said. Many aren’t used to U.S. norms such as using indoor bathroom facilities. Some have to be taught to go inside. But teachers aren’t taken aback because they understand the students’ circumstances, Downs said.
“The culture of Meadowlawn really embraces our English learners. It’s really who we are as a building,” Downs said. “For us it’s amazing to watch kids go from not having any English language to being able to participate in class and have basic language skills and basic academic skills.”
Fourth-grade student Victor Fnu, who immigrated with his family from Myanmar 18 months ago, said he likes “everything” about school — “math, reading, writing.”
He said he was “a little bit happy” when he first started. He remembers learning to read and speak English. “When I was in the class it was kind of hard to read the easy books.”
Now he’s taking on harder things in the traditional Meadowlawn program. “Today,” he said, “I’m planning on reading a book and practicing times (multiplication).”
More than 2,000 gymnasts from around the Midwest and thousands of spectators are expected to take part in the fifth annual Gymnastics on the Grand Invitational at the DeVos Place Convention Center this December.
