All posts by Joanne

Semi-Pro Cyclones Eye Year Two

Local Entertainment, Sports
Grand Rapids Cyclones are looking forward to year 2
The Grand Rapids Cyclones are looking forward to year two.

Matt Van Pelt writes for rantandravesports.wordpress.com, a blog that touches on local sports stories in West Michigan. Continued coverage will be available through now.wktv.org.

 

The Grand Rapids Cyclones are the latest team to join the Premier Basketball League (PBL), one of the nation’s most prolific semiprofessional basketball leagues.

 

The Cyclones, who played three games in last season’s shortened expansion season, had the attention of local Grand Rapids basketball fans, and hope a full season of 20 games will only mean more of the same. Cyclones fans, however, will have to wait until December before cheering on their favorite West Michigan cagers.

 

Not every Cyclone player is from the area, moreover, as the team’s lead decision makers just made a big splash nationally with their first ever PBL draft pick.

cyclone draft pick
1st overall pick Joshua Chichester is the newest addition to the Cyclones roster.

 

The Cyclones had the first pick of the 2014-2015 PBL draft, and took Ohio native Joshua Chichester with the top spot. Chichester once played forward for Hall-of-Famer Rick Pitino at Louisville and also caught passes for the Cardinals’ football team. Grand Rapids head coach Jeremiah Hamlet never second guessed the pick.

 

“Josh is 6’9 and extremely athletic. And he’s not just a great athlete, but a great person too. I can’t wait to work with him,” said Hamlet.

 

What the rest of the roster looks like remains to be seen.

 

“We don’t have a full roster picked out yet, but we’re going to have an open tryout and we’ve set a goal to finalize the roster by October 11th,” said Hamlet.

 

While Coach Hamlet may not know who will be sporting the red, white, and black just yet, he does know what intangibles he wants his players to embody.

 

“God willing our guys will create an identity that represents team and defense. As a new team, it’s natural that it will take some time to build a foundation. But if we represent the right things, and we’re hungry, I have all the confidence that the Grand Rapids Cyclones will be a success.”

 

In the appetizer that was an expansion season last winter, the Cyclones were just that — a success. The team drew great fan support, displayed impressive talent, and came away with a victory against the Lake Michigan Admirals.

 

The Admirals, located out of Benton Harbor, MI, will be the Cyclones’ closest opponent geographically, with the rest of the opposition spanning across the midwest.

 

Coach Hamlet is particularly looking forward to that inner-state matchup.

 

“The Admirals will without a doubt be our rival. We are definitely looking forward to playing them this year,” said Hamlet.

 

Cyclones fans packed out the Delta Plex in the first game against the Admirals last February. Much of that support stemmed from the natural intrigue that comes from having a new team in a big city, but it also came from a level of appreciation of what Cyclone players, coaches, and front office workers were doing in the greater Grand Rapids community.

 

While G.R.’s newest semi-pro team loves to win games, its purpose extends far beyond that.

cyclones coach

 

“Our vision with the Cyclones is about helping the players get to the next level, but it’s also about reaching out to the community and encouraging young people all around this area to make the right choices.”

 

It’s not uncommon to see Cyclone players and management volunteering their time and effort into various Grand Rapids schools, social events, and kid’s camps as well as playing the game they love on the hardwood.

 

Though during the expansion season their home-court hardwood was in the Delta Plex, this season’s Cyclones will call the River Town Sports Complex in Grandville, MI, their home.

 

In just three months time the anticipation will be past and the competition will be present.

 

To quote the team’s slogan from just months ago…

 

“There’s a storm coming!”

The Art Prize Voice Project Aims to Inspire Community-Wide Vocal Performance

Local Entertainment

Art Prize FinalThe open call to choirs and vocal groups to organize a community-wide processional of voices from the Grand Rapids Civic Theater to Rosa Parks Circle at the culmination of the 2014 ArtPrize Awards.

 

ArtPrize, the radically open, international art competition today announced the ArtPrize Voice Project, a collaborative performance of an original vocal composition, will be performed in a processional from the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre to Rosa Parks Circle on October 10 at 9:00 p.m. EDT, immediately following the announcement of the winners of ArtPrize 2014. ArtPrize has opened a call to any choir that would like to participate.

 

“ArtPrize belongs to the artists, venues, volunteers, and visitors who participate throughout the 19 days,” commented Todd Herring, ArtPrize director of marketing and communications. “Bringing the entire community together in celebration through this vocal collaborative is a fitting way to close out the sixth ArtPrize event.”

 

The twofold 2014 ArtPrize Awards will include an intimate ceremony at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre broadcast live by WOOD TV8 at a city-wide street party at Rosa Parks Circle. Everyone is invited to join in the festivities as attendees celebrate and honor Artists, and reflect on the past 19 days of exploration, conversations, and camaraderie. Following the announcement of the ArtPrize 2014 Grand Prize Winners, the two celebrations will come together at Rosa Parks Circle as the attendees at Civic Theatre are led down Monroe Center by a crowdsourced choir of hundreds.

 

The chorus will begin at 9:00 p.m. EDT with one hundred voices resounding through the Civic Theatre, as local band Domestic Problems takes up the tune on the Rosa Parks Circle stage. As the choir proceeds outside of Civic Theatre and along Monroe Center, hundreds of additional voices will join in the revelry, filling the streets of downtown Grand Rapids with song.

 

“Seeing the the entire city embrace singing and the art of music will be truly awesome,” noted Dennis Rybicki, Diocesan Director of Liturgical Music at Cathedral Square and composer for the ArtPrize Voice Project. “I am honored to have been asked to write this procession that will close the ArtPrize Awards this year.”

 

Choirs interested in participating in this collaborative event can view clips of other choirs performing the composition as well as find details on the ArtPrize blog. Choir directors and members are invited to send their name, contact information, and choir size to music@artprize.org to join in the festivities commemorating the close of the sixth annual ArtPrize event.

 

The 2014 ArtPrize Awards will take place on October 10. The city-wide celebration, a collaborative effort with WOOD TV8, will begin at 5:00 p.m. EDT in Rosa Parks Circle with live bands including Domestic Problems and Troll For Trout, several local food truck options, and Founders beer for those attendees 21 and over.

 

ArtPrize 2014 will take place from September 24 to October 12 in downtown Grand Rapids, where 1,536 artist entries will vie for a combination of public vote and juried awards totaling $560,000. For more information, please visit artprize.org.

 

ABOUT ARTPRIZE

 

ArtPrize is an international art competition, open to any artist and decided by public vote. It invites artists to try out new ideas on a large and diverse population of people. It seeks to broaden the critical dialogue around contemporary art by awarding the world’s largest art prize, at $560,000. Registered artists and venues connect online at artprize.org and agree to present the artwork for public display during the 19-day event. The public votes using mobile devices and the web to distribute $260,000, while an additional $300,000 in juried awards are decided by a group of international art experts. ArtPrize 2014 will include 1,536 entries representing 51 countries and 42 U.S. states and territories. ArtPrize 2013 attracted more than 400,000 active participants. Since its inception, individuals of all backgrounds have cast more than 1.7 million votes for public art.

 

ArtPrize is made possible in part through the generous support of many organizations. Corporate Premier Leadership sponsors include Amway, Founders Brewing Company, Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, Meijer, PNC Bank and The Rapid. Leadership sponsors include Consumers Energy, CWD Real Estate Investment, Deloitte, Haworth, The Iserv Company, Steelcase Inc., and Wolverine Worldwide.

 

Leading Foundation Supporters include The Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation, The Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Douglas and Maria DeVos Foundation, The Frey Foundation, Grand Rapids Community Foundation, and The VanderWeide Family Foundation.

Bargains, Baubles, and Baked Goods

Local Faces, Our Cities

Video Courtesy of Nate Diedrich WTKV Community Media

Saturday, September 20, was a sunny, muggy, pre-fall day for Kentwood families to explore the Fall Flea Market, Craft Sale, and Bake Sale at the Kentwood Activities Center. The center, located on 48th Street between Eastern and Division Avenues, was a hive of activity. Lorraine Beloncis, the Senior Enrichment Coordinator for the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department, was pleased, “We are completely full—41 booths were rented!”

Lorraine Beloncis with senior volunteers at the Bake Sale.
Lorraine Beloncis with senior volunteers at the Bake Sale.

 

Always a popular event, the fall market has been occurring for 15 years while the spring flea market is in its 26th year.

 

“They provide funding for the Senior Enrichment Programs including travel, card days, exercise classes, and special luncheons,” explained Beloncis.

 

The smell of homemade sloppy joes filled the vendor area, while senior volunteers manned the well-stocked bake sale tables, including home-canned jellies and jams made from fresh local rhubarb, strawberries and Michigan cherries.

 

The Flea Market, Craft Sale, and Bake sale is indeed billed as a “Trifecta of Treasures.” A one-stop shopping opportunity for back-to-school bargain hunters, connoisseurs of fine craftsmanship, and lovers of sweets. Booths included treasures from jewelry to wood working, collectibles to homemade soaps and lotions. There was even a booth for a free computerized neck and spine evaluation courtesy of Dr. Mark Wolfmann of the MaximizedLiving Center!

Esther Middlewood, Chairperson of the Kentwood Historical Preservation Commission
Esther Middlewood, Chairperson of the Kentwood Historical Preservation Commission

 

The Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission was represented by 15-year Chairperson Esther Middlewood, and Commissioner, Jackie Moore. Their welcoming table offered beautiful bound copies of The Story of Kentwood including stories of longtime residents, as well as historical facts about the city.

 

Ms. Middlewood was also there to let the community know that there are currently 2 vacant Commission seats available. If you are interested in preserving and disseminating knowledge of Kentwood, you are encouraged to contact the Historic Preservation Commission at (616) 554-0709.

 

Judging by the number of cars and shoppers, the Fall Flea Market was a great success. If you missed it, you can wait until spring, but in the meantime there are other Kentwood events coming up:

 

September 27, 2014 Free Quilt Show “Every Quilt Has a Story” featuring Bette Jones Boulding at the Kentwood Branch Library. Door prizes include a beautiful quilt donated by Charles Osborn , designed by Grandma Annie.

 

October 16, 2014 Huddle Up Health Fair and Flu Shots at the Kentwood Activities Center—355 48th Street. Information available from health organizations, and local businesses including beauty, health, home care, housing, education, employment, finances, legal aide, medications, mobility aids, nutrition and much , much more.

Kentwood High School Alumni gives back!

Area Education
J.D. talking to students
An opportunity to give back as J.D. talks to Teen Leadership students at Kentwood Public Schools.
J.D. tells the class what it was like to serve in Afghanistan.

To teach, is to touch a life forever!

 

This seems apparent with the remarkable relationship that was forged between former Kentwood student J.D. Marsiglia and his former Teen Leadership teacher Mr. Joe Pellerito.

 

“When I first took his class, I was so shy, I could hardly speak in front of anyone,” Marsiglia told WKTV during a recent phone interview.

 

And now, he believes in giving back to the teacher who impacted his life so greatly.

 

Recently Mariglia, who is an Army Specialist in Gulf Company 3BSTB, spoke to Pellerito’s Advanced Teen Leadership students.

 

“The students were really interactive and asked me a lot of questions about my time in service in Afghanistan.  I developed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and a sleep disorder.  I told them how I cope and how difficult it can be,” he explained.

 

J.D. also addressed these issues:

 

How important communication is in the army
His daily life in Afghanistan
Facing fears
The transition home
Speaking with authority figures
Teaching new recruits
What EK did to help prepare him for the real world
What’s next for him (college).

 

JD is currently an Army Specialist in Gulf Company 3BSTB 10th Mountain Division. He is a Team Leader and helps train the new soldiers.  JD just finished a 9 month tour in Afghanistan and is now stationed in New York.

 

The events of 9-11 are what made him join the Military.         J.D. Picture

 

“Anything can happen.  I am going to fight back for our country,!” he exclaimed emphatically.

 

Thank you to JD and all those serving our Country in the military!  And, isn’t it nice to know that one teacher made such a difference in his life.  Thanks Joe Pellerito for being such a great teacher.

Don’t get taken for a ride when buying a car

How-To's, Our Cities

Secretary Johnson, State Police offer tips when buying a used vehicle in a private sale

 Secretary of State Ruth Johnson and Michigan State Police Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue are encouraging drivers to do their homework before purchasing a vehicle in a private sale.

“If the deal looks too good to be true, it probably is,” Johnson said. “If you come across an expensive car offered at a ridiculously low price or a seller who refuses to go to a Secretary of State office with you for the title transfer, walk away. By keeping some common sense tips in mind, you can protect yourself from fraud and loss when buying a vehicle in a private sale.”

There have been several stolen vehicles with fake titles offered for sale in Metro Detroit since 2012, often by con-artists who find their victims through ads on Craigslist.org.

“Buyers should be very cautious when purchasing a used vehicle in a private sale,” Etue said. “Doing a little research and taking some simple precautions can help car buyers protect themselves from becoming a victim.”

Before buying a vehicle from someone other than an auto dealer, Johnson and Etue recommend car buyers:

  • Complete the vehicle sale at a police station or Secretary of State office to make it easy to have the vehicle title verified as authentic. Ask the seller to accompany you for the title transfer. If the seller seems uncomfortable, offers excuses or refuses to go, step away from the deal.
  • Arrange the sale, preferably during business hours, in a well-lit location with surveillance cameras if the sale cannot be conducted at a police station or at a Secretary of State office. Avoid transactions held in parking lots of closed or vacant businesses. Many scams are staged in less populated areas on a Friday night or the weekend when businesses, such as banks and insurance companies, are closed.
  • Check the seller’s identification to verify that he or she is the owner of the vehicle. All owners listed on the front of the title must sign off as the sellers to transfer the title.
  • If the seller indicates that he or she represents a vehicle dealership without being able to provide a wall license to verify that the location is licensed, walk away from the sale. All vehicle dealer transactions are required to be conducted at a licensed established place of business or at a licensed supplemental location within the same county.
  • Do not purchase a vehicle from someone claiming to represent an out-of-state dealer. Out-of-state dealers cannot purchase and sell vehicles in Michigan without obtaining a Michigan dealer license. Most often these individuals are scam artists illegally operating as unlicensed dealers.
  • Know the suggested retail price or Blue Book value of the vehicle and beware of extremely low prices. For vehicle pricing, check out websites such as nadaguides.com, Cars.com, kbb.com and Edmunds.com.
  • Make sure the vehicle has a title. A vehicle cannot be transferred or registered without one. Don’t agree to the sale if the seller cannot produce the title or if there are discrepancies. If the seller claims that you don’t need the title or that it is easy to get a new title, something is wrong with the deal – the vehicle may be stolen, salvaged or scrapped, or have a lien attached to it.
  • If a lien is on the title, make sure the lien termination statement is attached.
  • Verify whether the vehicle title is a green clear title or an orange salvage title before the purchase. Crooks will go to great lengths to make a stolen vehicle sale appear legitimate. Information on titles may be skillfully altered or the entire document may be counterfeit. Title fraud is just one of the reasons why it is best if the seller and buyer go to a Secretary of State office to complete the title transfer.
  • Match the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the title with the VIN on the dashboard or driver’s side door jamb. Free VIN checks are available through the National Insurance Crime Bureau at nicb.org. Vehicle histories can be purchased at sites such as vehiclehistory.gov, carfax.com and autocheck.com.
  • Check the odometer’s mileage against what is recorded on the title. Under state and federal law, the mileage for most vehicles must be provided with the title assignment when ownership transfers. Vehicles 10 or more years old are exempt.
  • Test drive the vehicle and have it inspected by an independent licensed mechanic.
  • Record and maintain all emails, texts and telephone numbers provided by the seller.

Buying a used vehicle from a private seller is different than purchasing one through a car dealership. Dealerships and their transactions are regulated by law, providing customers with remedies if problems arise. Here are some points to remember about auto dealers:

  • A car dealer has an established place of business. If there are issues with the car a customer can go back to the dealership and discuss it with the dealer. The majority of dealers want to maintain a positive business reputation with their customers.
  • A dealer’s reputation may be checked online through a number of organizations such as the Better Business Bureau at bbb.org, Edmunds.com, carfax.com or dealerrater.com.
  • Complaints involving dealers can be investigated by the Michigan Department of State. Complaints regarding vehicle sales between individuals are not investigated by the department.
  • Dealerships can offer vehicle warranties, but private sellers cannot. If a vehicle sold in a private sale is still under an existing warranty, the warranty might be transferable to the purchaser. Check the service contract before buying to be sure.
  • A dealership is required to maintain a $10,000 surety bond in the event any legal action is required regarding a vehicle transaction. Options for reparation are extremely limited for consumers scammed in private vehicle sales.

The Secretary of State’s Office registers vehicles and licenses and regulates auto dealers and repair shops. It also informs consumers of their rights and investigates related complaints. Car buyers can go online at www.michigan.gov/sos to find brochures that offer tips for buying or leasing vehicles, as well as doing business with a private individual. Complaints about vehicle sales between individuals cannot be investigated by the Secretary of State’s Office.

For media questions, please call , Michigan Department of State, at 517-373-2520 or Shanon Banner, Michigan State Police, at 517-241-0955.

Wyoming Police Conduct Death Investigation

Our Cities

Wyoming Police Conduct Death Investigation

At approximately 9:50 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17, Wyoming Public Safety officers were called to the Aldi store located at 289 54th Street SW on a trespassing complaint. Employees reported seeing a man thought to be sleeping behind the store. Upon arrival, officers located the body of a 56-year old male who was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators have found no initial signs of foul play.

 

An investigation is being conducted with an autopsy scheduled for Thursday. The identity of the victim is not being released pending notification of family.

Kentwood Police Department taking back Unwanted Prescription Drugs on September 27th

Our Cities

Contact:  Volunteer Coordinator Viktoryia Highland @ 616-656-6571

 

Kentwood, Michigan – On September 27, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, the Kentwood Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public its ninth opportunity in four years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.  Bring your pills for disposal to the Kentwood Police Department at 4742 Walma Ave SE, Kentwood, MI 49512.  The DEA cannot accept liquids, needles, or sharp objects.  Only pills or patches will be accepted.  The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

 

Last April, Americans turned in 390 tons (over 780,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at nearly 6,100 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,400 of its state and local law enforcement partners.  When those results are combined with what was collected in its eight previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 4.1 million pounds—more than 2,100 tons—of pills.

 

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue.  Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.  Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.

Kentwood Fire Department Dedicates Engine 53 to the Late Commissioner Cummings

Our Cities
Kentwood Fire Department s new truck - Engine 53.
Kentwood Fire Department’s new truck – Engine 53.

On Tuesday, September 16th, the Kentwood City Commission held a Dedication and Proclamation event for the new Kentwood Fire Department Engine 53, dedicated to the late Commissioner Frank Cummings. Commissioner Cummings was an avid supporter of Kentwood’s emergency services, so it is only fitting that this new vehicle be dedicated to him.

 

The dedication took place in the rear parking lot of the Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave SE at 5:30 p.m.

 

The Kentwood City Commission, Commissioner Cummings family members, as well as members of the Kentwood Fire Department, were present at the ceremony.

15 Creative Cat ‘Toys’ That Won’t Bust Your Budget

Pets/Animals


Pet stores are full of fantastic cat toys – i.e. laser light, plastic ball, crinkle sacks (has anyone’s cat ever used one??) 400 versions of a mouse – squishy, squeaky, cat nip filled, fabric covered, fur covered, flannel covered, flat, fat, fluffy, fuzzy, stripes, polka dotted, pink, yellow, green, brown, black, white, makes crinkle noise, runs on wheels, battery operated, remote controlled, blinking lights in their butt, and the list goes on and on.

The smaller toys are only $4 – $5 dollars. Easily justifiable, right? We run into the store to buy food and litter, see all the toys and say, “It’s only a few dollars. Sure, I’ll grab it.” But do that enough times and the money we set aside for the down-payment on a new car is gone! (what? You don’t spend that much?)

And we all have to hang our heads in shame and say, “Hi, My name is (your name here), and I have a Toy Graveyard in my family room.” You know the one. The pretty little basket full to the brim with all those “it’s only a few dollars” toys that we liked more than our cats did. The skunks, chipmunks and mice, sparkle ball, plastic ball, rubber ball, tennis ball, etc.

The most frustrating part about driving to the pet store in a 1983 white Ford Escort with one red door, and picking up those toys that end up in the Toy Graveyard is that our cats all end up playing with basic items found around our house and are NOT cat toys. So c’mon, let’s stop wasting our time and money on store-bought one-use only toys and start looking around the house for the next cat toy!

I have compiled a list of common items that seem to amuse my cats for some odd reason. I’m sure you have many more that you could easily add to this list!
Many of these items can be found in your house or at a craft store:

Box 1

1. Empty cardboard box – ask your friends to mail you something, anything. Just to get that fresh and crispy white, blue and red cardboard box. A cat toy hand-delivered by the USPS!

2. Plastic ring found on gallon jugs of milk – as soon as that ring hits the ground, it will be batted around the kitchen like a hockey puck, or carried around the house like today’s kill. (please be careful with this one, they are easy to chew through).

3. Road map spread out on the floor – (Yes, people still paper road maps) Taking a trip? Get that map and spread it out on the floor. And then get a second map for yourself. Box 3 Nutmeg Trinity
4. Empty box – Perfect excuse to go shopping! Head out to the mall and buy a large item that comes in a box. Doesn’t matter what. New dishes, sewing machine, stand mixer, salad spinner. Just so long as it is large enough for the cat to dart into – and fall asleep.   Box 2

5. Bring nature into your home – let a fly into the house (if you don’t mind all your lamps knocked over)

6. Bring nature into your home – let a squirrel into the house (if you don’t mind all your lamps knocked over)

7. Take up knitting and leave the ball of yarn next to you on the couch. Just make sure you do not care how your knitted project turns out.

8. Take up needlepoint – your cat will watch with rapt attention as the thread appears and disappears on the underside of the woven canvas.

9. Roll a marble across a floor (hard surfaces, of course) – your cat will watch with fascination as you roll the marble to the other side of the room, go get it and roll it again, go get it, and roll it again, go get it….

10. Used shoelace – well, it doesn’t have to be used, I’ve been known to buy a fresh one. Not only will they drag it around the house like Linus’s blanket, but they will have hours of fun watching you throw one end of the string to them and then slowly pull it toward yourself, and then throw one end to them, and slowly pull it toward yourself and throw one end to them…

11. When you are finished making a casserole, peel off the aluminum foil and crumple it into a tight ball. Toss it across the kitchen or down a hallway and watch the cat run! And no need to explain to guests why you have 14 balls of foil in the living room, bedrooms, bathrooms, hallway…

12. The cheapest one – all you need is a watch and the sun. Hey, that rhymed! Happy accident. Anyway, line up your watch in the sunshine so the reflection ends up on the floor or low wall.
Box 4 paper bag

13. Laying paper bags on the floor – Next time the grocery store asks, “Paper or Plastic?” shout proudly, “Paper!” You may get weird looks from the employees, but they don’t know about the afternoon’s entertainment you have lined up.

14. Leave your shoes out in the open – forget to clean up after yourself, and your shoes can become the next best cat toy!

Different uses for products: Not all toys have to be common household items. I found two fantastic items at the craft store that make better cat toys than what they were originally intended:

15. Pom Poms sparkle balls – These are found in the kids craft aisle. I guess they are supposed to be glued onto projects like making a clown’s hat or something. We tossed one to our cat and he carries it around all the time.

16. The Original Squirmles, The Magical Pet – This is also found at the craft store. Supposed to be used by kids to do illusion-type tricks. But wow, cats go crazy for it! Even the ones the that don’t normally play – or move. Trust me on this one. Trust me. And hey, do me a favor – trust me on this one!

So next time your cat has a gall to tell you s/he is bored, pull out this list and let the games begin!

Sept 15-24–Get Involved with Wyoming Food Drive!

Non-Profits
For 1 in 6 Americans, hunger is a very real struggle. These are often hard-working adults, children and senior citizens who simply cannot always make ends meet and may be forced to go without food. Feeding America is at the heart of efforts to fight hunger and promote health…
…and you can help!
Please help us collect nutritious food,
personal care and baby items for
Feeding America Food Bank of West Michigan. 
Most needed items include:

  • Canned fruit or vegetables
  • Canned tuna, chicken, fish or meat
  • Beans & grains (all types)
  • Baby products
    • Diapers
    • Wipes
  • Personal care items
    • Shampoo
    • Soap
    • Toothpaste/brush
Donations can be dropped off at:
Family Fare Supermarket
Metro Health Village
2275 Health Drive SW
Wyoming, MI
Metro Health
Hospital
Metro Café
5900 Byron Center Avenue SW
Wyoming, MI

Join the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce

Local Business

Chamber of CommerceThinking of becoming a Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce member? Learn more:

 

The New Member/New Contact Breakfast is Thursday, September 18th at the Best Western at 2725 Buchanan SW, Wyoming from 7:30 am- 9:00 am. This event is FREE. Please register with Suzanne at the Chamber office at 531-5990. This is a great opportunity to find out all the things that happen at your Chamber.

 

Friday, September 19th is our 3rd Fridays! Networking Luncheon from 11:30 am- 1:00 pm. This month we will be at the Spartan YMCA – 5722 Metro Way. Food will be catered by Adeline Leigh Catering. Always one of our most popular venues, so sign up on line or call the Chamber office.

 

The Chamber’s mission is building better communities by building better businesses.  Our members are committed to the Wyoming and Kentwood communities.  The Santa Parade committee works all year to bring a wonderful celebration of the holidays and joy to the children of Wyoming and Kentwood with the parade on Division Avenue. Parade – Save the Date: 2014Santa Parade Saturday, December 6th. The parade begins at 10 a.m.

Five Reasons Why Women Lose Their Hair

Community Health,

by Alan J. Bauman, M.D.

Here’s a fact that many people probably don’t know: roughly half of all women over the age of 40 suffer from some form of hair loss.

That’s right – half. While most people tend to think of hair loss as a man’s problem, the reality is that women are almost just as likely as men to lose their hair. But wait, you say, I don’t see bald women walking around… how is this possible?

In women, genetic hair loss is “expressed” in women differently than men. While many women can experience significant hair loss—women do not typically “go bald.” That is an important factor in diagnosing and treating female pattern hair loss vs male pattern hair loss. The main difference between male and female pattern hair loss is the fact that female hair loss occurs more diffusely over the affected areas of scalp, leaving some follicles unscathed while severely miniaturizing others.

In early cases, male pattern hair loss can be diagnosed “from across the room” as hairlines recede and the traditional crown bald spot appears. This is in stark contrast to most women, where coverage is often maintained even as the quantity of hair in the affected area decreases to 50% of normal! Without a close examination or measurement, the early stages of hair loss can be underestimated, missed and perhaps dismissed, even by
dermatologists. The subtle signs and symptoms of decreased ponytail volume, excessive shedding, widening part-lines, decreased frontal or temporal coverage requiring more creative hairstyling, etc. if ignored can lead to a larger cosmetic issue that is harder to address later on, if left untreated.

Genetics and other factors determine the time of onset, speed and severity of loss over time. Female hair loss can be mild or severe, and there are a variety of factors at work that determine how a woman’s hair will change over time. Hair loss can start at any age – teens, twenties, thirties, forties, and a woman’s risk skyrockets after menopause.

When men experience hair loss, some decide to deal with it by shaving it off and moving on like Bruce Willis or Vin Diesel. Unfortunately for women, there isn’t a similar socially-acceptable option. Female pattern baldness often causes a great deal of anxiety and embarrassment in women – it’s also associated with a higher risk of depression and social withdrawal as styling options become more limited and cumbersome.

There are a number of reasons why women go bald, as I’ll discuss below, but it’s important for women to realize that this condition is quite common and they’re not alone. It’s estimated that more than 30 million US women suffer from hair loss – and that’s a very conservative estimate. The real number is probably two to three times higher. Also important – there are treatments that can help! From FDA approved minoxidil to special marine-derived supplements, low level laser therapy, prostaglandin analogs, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and NeoGraft FUE microsurgical hair transplants, there are several highly effective medical treatment options available for female hair loss patients.

There are also genetic tests available that can predict a woman’s hair loss risk later in life and a scientific measuring tool called HairCheck that can help professionals accurately measure, analyze and track the amount of hair in various areas of scalp over time. This can help monitor hair loss or hair regrowth from treatments over time.

Here are five reasons why women lose their hair:

1. Genetics – There are approximately 200 genes that regulate hair growth. Just like men, women too can inherit “the hair loss gene” amongst other hair characteristics that make hair loss more significant. After puberty, the hereditary hair loss genes can take over—causing a gradual and progressive miniaturization of hair follicles. As our hair ages, the follicle function diminishes in proportion to hereditary risk.

What Can You Do? If you’re young, get tested to see if you’re at risk later in life. If you’re already experiencing hair loss, consult with a board-certified hair restoration physician right away and get a HairCheck measurement in the at-risk areas. Regardless of how far along your hair loss is, there are medical treatments that can help. A typical multi-therapy approach will utilize minoxidil, low level laser therapy and nutritional supplements – but additional measures like PRP, prostaglandin analogs and NeoGraft FUE hair transplant surgery may also be used depending on the person’s individual case.

2. Hormonal Changes – At times in a woman’s life when hormone levels change—birth control pills, childbirth, menopause, hormone replacement therapy, etc.—sometimes there’s an association with hair loss. Recent scientific studies suggest that some women may be genetically predisposed to be sensitive to androgens (even small levels), which are known trigger for hair loss in men. In addition, many physicians report that anti-androgen treatments are helpful in cases of female hair loss.

What Can You Do? Genetic testing, called HairDX, is now available from select doctors to determine if a woman may be “Highly Androgen Sensitive,” which increases her likelihood of responding to certain off-label treatments like finasteride. Other treatments like minoxidil, PRP and low level laser therapy may also be used in combination.

3. Diet – Our follicles need certain types and amount of nutrients to produce healthy hair, so women who engage in unhealthy dieting (such as crash diets) or have nutritional deficiencies – particularly in calories, protein, iron, zinc or vitamins A, B, C – are at risk of a short-term hair loss condition known as ‘telogen effluvium.’ This risk is compounded if the woman is already genetically predisposed to hair loss.

What Can You Do? Eat a healthy diet, rich with hair “super foods” like salmon, dark green vegetables, nuts, beans, poultry, whole grains, low-fat dairy, etc. Also consider taking a pharmaceutical-grade biotin supplement (like Appearex) or the marine-derived supplement Viviscal Professional, both of which support healthier hair.

4. Health – Ill health can also have an impact on a woman’s hair. Weight loss, thyroid disorders, stress and other health-related issues can also cause hair loss. Additionally, certain medications may also cause hair loss, such as: oral acne medications with retinoids, antibiotics, antifungals, antidepressants, birth control, anti-hypertensives, cholesterol-lowering drugs, immunology-suppressants, and more.

What Can You Do? Patients should never discontinue a prescribed medical treatment just because of its potential hair loss side effects. However, such patients should consult a board-certified hair restoration physician to get started on multi-therapy program that can combat these side effects, such as minoxidil, nutritionals and low level laser therapy.

5. Physical Damage – Women who wear hair extensions, braids and tight pony-tails can cause lasting physical harm to hair follicles, resulting in a type of permanent hair loss known as traction alopecia, a form of scarring alopecia. Additionally, using harsh chemicals like bleaches and dyes, blow dryers and flat irons, and combing the hair when wet puts the hair strands themselves at risk of damage and breakage.

What Can You Do? Avoid long-term use of hair extensions or use intermittently only. Over time, these are especially harmful to hair follicles and most stylists will underestimate their potential for damage until its too late. Women with weak hair should also try to scale back on the other harmful styling practices (e.g. chemical or heat straightening) as much as possible. They can also incorporate dimethicone-based hair conditioners and thermal protection conditioners to minimize damage and use nutritional supplements like biotin to help boost the strength of hair fibers.

Alan J. Bauman, M.D. Of Bauman Medical Group in Boca Raton, Fl uses innovative techniques to preserve or restore natural hair appearance. As one of the few physicians in the world board certified by the American and International Board of Hair Restoration Surgery, Dr. Bauman lectures frequently at medical conferences such as the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. In recent months he has been noted as a medical expert in O, The Oprah Magazine and Men’s Health, and appeared on “The Suzanne Show” on Lifetime, ABC and NBC News in South Florida.

GR Ballet Receives $1 Million Gift from the Late Peter M. Wege

Local Entertainment

The Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB) recently announced the receipt of a gift of $1 million to its endowment fund from the estate of Peter M. Wege, who was a longtime patron and supporter of Grand Rapids Ballet. Wege, who passed away in July at the age of 94, had a passion for arts and culture, education and the environment in Grand Rapids.

 

“Peter M. Wege was a true blessing to our organization and the community at large and will always hold a special place in our hearts,” said Glenn Del Vecchio, Grand Rapids Ballet executive director. “We are honored to receive such a monumental contribution from Mr. Wege. His generous donation will contribute to Grand Rapids Ballet’s continued growth and further our mission of lifting the human spirit through the art of dance for years to come.”

 

Peter M. Wege was one of GRB’s most passionate and committed advocates. The significant financial support provided by Peter M. Wege and the Wege Foundation throughout the years has contributed to the success of GRB today. Several key milestones were made possible through the support of Mr. Wege, including the creation of GRB’s current venue the LEED certified, Meijer-Royce Center for Dance and the Peter M. Wege Theatre that opened in 2007. The 300-seat Peter Martin Wege Theatre was named for Peter M. Wege’s father who was the founder of Steelcase.

 

Mr. Wege’s contributions allowed for the creation of countless educational opportunities for Grand Rapids students to experience the arts. Wege supported the production of The Nutcracker along with performances of The Nutcracker for Grand Rapids Public Schools free of charge. Mr. Wege was a visionary in the community and has helped Grand Rapids Ballet “do all the good they can, for as many people as they can” and because of his gift “for as long as we can”.

 

GRB will celebrate the life and support of Peter M. Wege at their Season Kickoff Party on September 13, 2014. Call the Box Office at 616-454-4771 for Tickets and Information.
Grand Rapids Ballet Celebrating its 42nd 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.

American Airlines Launches New Routes at Ford International Airport

Local Business

Airlines 1 Airlines2Grand Rapids, MI – American Airlines officially expanded its East Coast connectivity today by launching new routes to Charlotte and Philadelphia from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA). The new nonstop service from Grand Rapids, MI (GRR) offers flights to Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). The service will be operated as US Airways Express with 50-seat CRJ-200 aircraft.

 

The Grand Rapids community welcomed the inaugural flight with a water cannon salute by the airport’s Fire Department, a Charlotte and Philadelphia-themed cake, as well as Carolina BBQ sandwiches and Philly Cheesesteaks. Representatives from the airport, the airport board and dignitaries in the West Michigan community were on hand to welcome passengers that stepped off US Airways Express flight 3890, arriving from Charlotte.

 

We are thrilled to have American, and partner US Airways, expand our air service market in Grand Rapids, and we look forward to offering more choices for our travelers,” said GFIA Executive Director Brian Ryks.

 

“This new nonstop service to Charlotte and Philadelphia will not only connect West Michigan to two large, thriving cities, but it will also provide convenient connections to many other domestic and international destinations.”

 

Charlotte-Douglas International Airport offers nearly 650 daily departures to more than 140 destinations on American Airlines. Philadelphia International Airport has nearly 450 daily departures connecting to more than 120 destinations.

 

In addition to these two new routes, American also offers service to GRR from its hubs in Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Chicago O’Hare (ORD). In December 2013, American Airlines and US Airways closed their merger, creating the largest airline in the world.

 

Travelers can book now for these flights operated as US Airways Express, which begin in Grand Rapids on Sept. 3, 2014.

 

Flights from Grand Rapids to Charlotte will operate twice daily departing GRR at 6:45 a.m. and 11:55 a.m. Flights from Grand Rapids to Philadelphia will also run twice daily, departing GRR at 7:00 a.m. and 3:40 p.m.

 

About GFIA

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is the second busiest airport in Michigan. The airport served over 2.23 million passengers in 2013 and over 6,000 travelers pass through GFIA each day. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport offers non-stop service to 24 major market destinations with 120 daily non-stop flights. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is managed and operated by the Kent County Department of Aeronautics. GFIA generates over $500 million annually in economic activity throughout West Michigan and employs over 1,500 people. For more information on GFIA visit: www.flyford.org or follow the airport on Twitter: @FlyGRFord.

Federal Grants Awarded to Help Burn Survivors

Community Health, Our Cities

WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Carl Levin today announced support for the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors to help those who are recovering from burn injuries and increase public safety through fire prevention and preparedness.  This $256,120 grant comes through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Fire Prevention and Safety Program.

 

“Today’s announcement is great news for the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors and the people it serves,” said Stabenow. “Organizations like this play a critical role in preventing future burn injuries all across the country, and they rely on this funding to provide support to survivors and their families.”

 

“The Phoenix Society has played a crucial role in providing burn survivors with the care and support they need during extraordinarily difficult times,” said Levin. “This grant will help the staff at the Phoenix Society continue their vital work of helping individuals recover physically and emotionally from burn injuries.”

 

The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, which is based in Grand Rapids, is a national organization that works with burn injury survivors, families, health care professionals, burn centers, and the fire industry to support those affected and help prevent future burn injuries.

 

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program is part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).  These competitive grants will help enhance public safety through activities such as fire prevention education and awareness. More information about the grant can be found at http://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program.

10 Events You Don’t Want to Miss for Art Prize 2014!

Local Entertainment

Time to Start Your Art Prize Planning

In just 2.5 weeks, ArtPrize 2014 will officially kick off.  To help you navigate the sea of activity ArtPrize brings, here are 10 events that we hope you’ll attend.  The list is presented chronologically, we’ll let you decide which ones are most important to you.
Art Prize 1#1
ArtPrize HUB Grand Opening
September 20th  9 a.m. – NOON
ArtPrize HUB @ 41 SheldonPresented by Huntington Bank: Be among the first to see the re-installation of Adonna Khare’s Elephants alongside Anne Loveless’ Sleeping Bear Dune Lakeshore.   Register to vote, browse the HUB and stock up on the new 2014 ArtPrize gear. Donuts and cider provided by Sietsema Orchards.
#2     Art Prize 2
OPENING DAY
Wednesday, September 24
Definitely more of a “day of events” than a single happening, opening day is an exciting time to be at ArtPrize. Voting opens at noon, and that evening at 6:30 p.m. you can celebrate the opening of ArtPrize 2014 with the GVSU Marching Band & WGVU/PBS Nerdwalk.
#3Art Prize 3
CRITICAL DISCOURSE:
The Jurors’ Shortlist Event
September 29th, 7 p.m.
ArtPrize HUB @  41 Sheldon
Broadcast Live on WOOD TV8The five 2014 category award jurors will each present and discuss a list of five nominees for their respective $20,000 awards, challenging perceptions and offering their unique perspectives on the landscape of entries drawn from expertise in their given category.
#4     Art Prize 4
CRITICAL DISCOURSE:
Creative Approaches to Detroit: Design 99
September 30th, 7 p.m.
ArtPrize HUB @  41 Sheldon
Broadcast Live on GRTVDetroit-based art and architecture duo and winner of the ArtPrize Juried Grand Prize in 2012, Design 99 explores the role of art and design within the fabric of their community.
#5Art Prize 5
CRITICAL DISCOURSE:
ART21 Season 7 World Preview Screening
October 2nd, 7 p.m.
ArtPrize HUB @  41 Sheldon
Broadcast Live on GRTVThe 2014 ArtPrize Grand Prize Jury assembled by ART21 will offer an exclusive look at their seventh season of ART21’s Art in the Twenty-First Century. The October 2 event will also include a conversation between ART21 executive director Susan Sollins and Season 7 featured artists Katharina Grosse and Leonardo Drew.
#6Art Prize 6
CRITICAL DISCOURSE:
NEW INC – Incubating Art and Tech 
October 3rd, 7 p.m.
ArtPrize HUB @ 41 Sheldon
Broadcast Live on GRTVPresented by CWD Real Estate
Discover trends at the intersection of art and technology, featuring Julia Kaganskiy, executive director of NEW INC, Heather Cocoran, executive director of art and tech blog Rhizome, and artist Adam Harvey, whose work explores the uneasy relationship between technology and surveillance.
#7Art Prize 7
CRITICAL DISCOURSE:
Art, Disability, Images, Bodies
October 4th, 7 p.m.
ArtPrize HUB @  41 Sheldon
Broadcast Live on GRTVA collaborative event lead by DisArt – a Grand Rapids-based disability arts festival seeking to promote ability equality – October 4, will explore the intersection of art and disability, including an analysis of works within ArtPrize, featuring widely published disabilities studies scholars.
#8Art Prize 8
The Final 20 Announcement
October 5th, 2 p.m.
Rosa Parks CircleJoin us at Rosa Parks Circle as Rick DeVos, ArtPrize Founder, reveals the top five artist entries in each of the four public vote categories. The Final 20 Announcement is presented by Consumers Energy.
#9OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
CRITICAL DISCOURSE:
Why These Finalists?
Part One (2-D, Installation) Oct. 6th, 7 p.m.
Part Two (3-D, Time-Based) Oct. 7th, 7 p.m. 
ArtPrize HUB @  41 Sheldon
Broadcast Live on WOOD TV8A reinvention of an old favorite, on both October 6 and 7 a panel of three art experts will discuss half of the public and juried finalists in a lively, humorous, and irreverent debate.
#10Art Prize 10
The 2014 ArtPrize Awards
October 10th 7:45 p.m.
Civic Theater & Rosa Parks Circle
Broadcast Live on WOOD TV8The winners of ArtPrize 2014 will be announced in the midst of a city wide street party. It’s going to be a very special night.
These 10 events are just the beginning.  Make sure you check out the complete event list, and mark your calendars!  If you’re an artist, venue or sponsor, you can add events to the calendar too.COMPLETE ARTPRIZE EVENT CALENDAR
ARTPRIZE DAILY: (Sept. 21 – Oct. 12) ArtPrize will be sending out a daily email with all the news, events and announcements you’ll need to stay in the loop.

Chinese Lantern Responsible for Kentwood Fire

Our Cities

Kentwood Fire FightersAt 10:32 pm on Tuesday, September 9, 2014, the City of Kentwood Fire Department responded to 2350 Breton Industrial Drive SE, on a reported structure fire: a fire on the roof.
First arriving crews reported fire coming from the roof of the building (see photo on left). The fire was brought under control quickly.

 

According to a witness, a Chinese Lantern-type of device was seen above the building. The witness stated that there was a flash and burning material dropped to the roof of the building.

 

We have recovered a Chinese Lantern-type of device from the ground near the building.

 

At this time, the cause of this fire is under investigation.

 

Initial damage estimate is approximately $10,000.

 

All employees evacuated safely and there were no injuries.

 

{This article was written by Fire Chief Gregory S. Ginebaugh.)

World Debut of the Boatwright only at the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Local Entertainment

The Boatwright The BoatwrightWINNER OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF COMMUNITY THEATRE (ACCT) NEWPLAYFEST

 

The Boatwright Presented By Grand Rapid Civic Theatre September 12- 28, 2014        Drama: Written by Bo Wilson

 

ABOUT ACCT AND THE INAUGURAL AACT NEWPLAYFEST:  The American Association of Community Theatre (AACT) is honored Grand Rapids Civic Theatre is a Producing Theatre in the inaugural  AACT  NewPlayFest. With this festival, AACT is addressing the critical need for new, high-quality plays for community theatre audiences around the globe. Six theatres across the country were selected to produce the six winning scripts that were selected out of more than 200 submitted scripts.

 

Being selected as a winner of any playwriting contest is an accomplishment, but a few things set AACTNewPlayFest above other playwriting competitions.   One aspect that makes the AACT playwriting competition unique is the guarantee that an established theatre will produce each play.  Other competitions will offer a staged reading of the winning play, but that pales in comparison to having the play produced in full array for a live audience. Typically, new playwrights must work to find a theatre company willing to take a chance on a new, unpublished work.

 

Another facet that sets AACTNewPlayFest apart is the exciting news that Dramatic Publishing has agreed to print an anthology of the winning plays. They will also include the plays in their catalog and license the performance rights. Dramatic Publishing is one of the major licensers of plays and musicals in the United States and beyond. If a playwright is fortunate enough to find a theatre to produce their play, it does not guarantee publication, and the process of getting one’s play published can take years.

 

AACT provides networking, resources, and support for over 7,000 community theatres in the United States and its territories, as well as theatre companies with the U.S. Armed Services overseas.

 

The AACT NewPlayFest world premiere of The Boatwright is made possible in part by a grant from the Jack K. Ayre Theatre Fund.

 

ABOUT PLAYWRIGHT BO WILSON: BO WILSON (playwright) makes his home in Richmond, Virginia, where he works as a professional playwright.  He has won a variety of national awards and fellowships from theatre companies and universities all over the country.

 

Among those plays which have received professional productions in various cities across the country are War Story, Manly Men, A Wireless Christmas, Boy-Girl-Boy-Girl, Mister Dickens’ Carol and  Listen Close. Plays commissioned for young audiences include Arthur and Merlin, The George Washington Carver Story and The Emperor’s Nightingale.   His short play “Outside the Box” was chosen winner of the 2005 Samuel French Short Play Festival and was published by French the following year.

 

Bo is also regularly commissioned by science and fine arts museums to create site-specific performance pieces, on subjects ranging from Patrick Henry to Black Holes. (His personal favorite is an Abbott-and-Costello-style piece in which Bud tries to explain the number Pi to Lou.)  He has also written several dozen award-winning training films for private industry and the United States government including DuPont, the Department of Veteran Affairs, the FBI and the Defense Intelligence Agency.

 

A graduate of Virginia Tech and of the National Theatre Institute, Bo is also a professional voice talent, with several hundred radio and television commercials to his credit.

 

Bo is a member of Actors’ Equity Association and of The Dramatists Guild.

 

ABOUT THE BOATWRIGHT: Ben Calloway can’t seem to get his bearings in his own home anymore. Fifty-seven years old, recently widowed, childless, and retired from the Kansas Highway Patrol, he’s adrift… and even though he’s never seen the ocean, he decides he should build a boat and sail across the Atlantic, single-handed.

 

He doesn’t particularly want any part of his neighbor Jaime Watson’s problems. Jaime’s been suspended from film school and his father’s about lost patience with trying to fix the troubled young man. But when Ben decides to let Jaime make a movie about his boat-building project, the two men — generations apart and lonely in very different ways — force one another to confront the isolation in their own lives.

 

Whether Ben is crazy or courageous; whether Jaime is ill or merely lost; whether any of us can ever help one another find home– in seeking answers to these questions, Jaime and Ben also seek truths about themselves. When you think you’re on your own in uncharted waters, encountering another soul might be scary, it might be a relief, and it might be painful… but you know for sure you’re not alone anymore.

 

CAST LIST: THE BOATWRIGHT

 

Jaime Watson Played by David J Cobb *

 

Ben Calloway played by Patrick A. Hendren

 

*-First production at Civic Theatre

 

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre expresses their thanks to the following sponsors and partners:

 

Season Sponsor: The Porter Foundation and Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs

 

Production Sponsors: Centennial Securities Company Inc. and

 

Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services.

 

Artistic Sponsor:  Stellafly

 

Special Thanks to AACT and  the Jack K. Ayre Theatre Fund

 

Ticket Prices $16-$28

 

See events calendar for specific days and times: http://grct.org/eventschedule.html

 

For information on the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre or to purchase tickets, call 616-222-6650 or visit www.GRCT.org

 

This season is a perfect blend of theatre classics and new favorites. The Civic is proud to kick things off in September with the World Debut of an original work: The Boatwright.  Mary Poppins takes the stage just in time for the Holidays.  January brings the mystery, The Mousetrap to life, followed by the Rogers and Hammerstein masterpiece, South Pacific.  Children will adore Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, NO Good, Very Bad Day in April.   Making a Civic debut in June, Avenue Q, brings puppets to life and the season closes with Footloose and The Little Princess.

 

About Grand Rapids Civic Theatre:

 

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s mission: We are committed to enhance the cultural life of West Michigan by creating opportunities for people to enjoy live theatre performances using community artists, and to provide access to a comprehensive theatre arts education program for all ages. www.grct.org

Grand Rapids Civic Theatre introduces a new outreach program!

Local Entertainment

ImprovSchool of Theatre Arts to Launch an Adult Improv Troupe 

 Rapids Delivery Improv to Debut on the  Grand Rapids Civic Theatre Stage

 September 14, 2014

7:00 Curtain

Tickets in advance $7.00 and $10. 00 at the door

 Starting a new program is no laughing matter, but for the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre School of Theatre Arts, the launching of an adult Improv Troupe (Rapid Delivery Improv) came right on queue.  “We were looking for adult programming that would be an exciting addition for our school programming and had been considering improv for a long time,” notes School Director Penelope Notter.  “When Bart Sumner came to our stage for Christmas Carol, and shared his extensive knowledge and experience in Improv, we knew the stars were aligned.”

 

Aligned indeed, Rapids Delivery Improv (RDI) Director, Bart Sumner immediately began working on making this dream a reality.  After a year of classes, auditions, and small group performances a Troupe of 14 performers are eagerly awaiting their official stage debut.

 

“This is comedy brought to you at the speed of laughter! No Holds Barred Comedy. Comedy, by adults, for adults!” notes director Bart Sumner.  Rapid Delivery Improv delivers fast paced comedy shows featuring short form improvs, mid-form improvs, and musical improvs created from audience suggestions. Very funny! 90 minute shows. Uncensored comedy based on audience suggestions. No Scripts! Improvised – On The Spot Comedy.

 

The Troupe will perform on the Civic stage September 14th and October 4th.  In addition, the Troupe will be live at San Chez Bistro every Wednesday in October (beginning October 1).  Tickets for those shows can be purchased in advance at the San Chez website or at the door for $10.

 

Bart Sumner, an award winning performer and teacher of improvisational comedy for more than 25 years in NYC and Los Angeles. Bart has performed improv at Catch a Rising Star, The Comedy Store, The Groundlings East, The Improv, The LA Connection, and many other comedy venues across the country.

 

TROUPE  LIST:

Bart Sumner

Amy Gasco

Tory Watson

Tony Huver

Miles Potter

James Barber

Will Oltman

Chris Buys

Lis Hatfield

Lissa Marques

Steven Crockett

Larry Walangitan

Jordan Kantola

Nancy Wagner

 

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre expresses their thanks to the following sponsors and partners:Season Sponsors: The Porter Foundation and Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs

 

Ticket Prices $7.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door

 

See events calendar for specific days and times: http://grct.org/eventschedule.html

 

For information on the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre or to purchase tickets, call 616-222-6650 or visit www.GRCT.org

 

This season is a perfect blend of theatre classics and new favorites. The Civic is proud to kick things off in September with the World Debut of an original work: The Boatwright.  Mary Poppins takes the stage just in time for the Holidays.  January brings the mystery, The Mousetrap to life, followed by the Rogers and Hammerstein masterpiece, South Pacific.  Children will adore Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, NO Good, Very Bad Day in April.   Making a Civic debut in June, Avenue Q, brings puppets to life and the season closes with Footloose and The Little Princess.

 

About Grand Rapids Civic Theatre:

 

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre’s mission: We are committed to enhance the cultural life of West Michigan by creating opportunities for people to enjoy live theatre performances using community artists, and to provide access to a comprehensive theatre arts education program for all ages. www.grct.org

Robert C. Luders Joins City of Wyoming As Finance Director

Local Faces

The City of Wyoming has announced Robert C. Luders has accepted the position of finance director and will begin his service to the City on Oct. 13.

 

In his new role with the City, Luders will be responsible for directing the planning, organization and maintenance of finance services which include the City budget, audit, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, revenue administration, investment programs and fixed assets. He will assess and manage finance department operations, staffing levels, equipment and software to achieve the strategic goals of the department and the City as a whole.

 

Luders will assist the City’s leadership team and its individual departments to set and achieve financial goals. He will be responsible for developing, implementing and maintaining policies, procedures, internal controls, capital improvement plans, grant reporting and fee and rate setting for the City and its departments.

 

Luders will also work with the City’s human resources department, insurance consultants, third-party administrators and sponsors to administer the City’s insurance and pension programs, coordinate and provide oversight to the City’s retirement system, review investment activities and manage the City’s general liability insurance and process, applications, claims and renewals.

 

“We are very pleased Bob has decided to serve as finance director for Wyoming,” said Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt. “His expertise will be a key component in our strategic plan and help Wyoming continue on its course of streamlined, economically responsible growth.”

 

Luders brings more than 30 years of experience in directing the functions of municipal and private operations, most recently as director of finance and purchasing for Portage, Mich.

 

Luders holds a bachelor’s degree from Valparaiso University and a master’s degree from Seton Hall University. A native of Chatham, N.J., he currently resides in Caledonia with his wife, Cathy.

 

For further information, visit the City website at www.wyomingmi.gov. You can find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CityofWyoming, and on Twitter @WyomingCityHall.

2014-2015 Michigan State Spartans Outlook

Sports

Editor’s Note:  This begins a weekly series of sports stories from Rant N’ Rave Sports–A Recreation/Sports website started by Michael DeWitt of Rockford, MI.   http://rantandravesports.wordpress.com/

It’s almost that time of year again. Growing up playing basketball and golf, I was always excited for what the end of summer would bring…    FOOTBALL SEASON! It’s no secret I grew up a “die hard” MSU fan, and nothing has changed. Much of my younger years were spent agonizing over Michigan State teams that continually underwhelmed and disappointed their fan base. Recent years has made it all worth it though. Seven straight bowl appearances, capped off by a history making RoseBowl victory last season. The Spartan fan in me can’t help but also bring up the fact that “Little Brother” has taken 5 of their last 6 meetings from their in-state rival and it looks as though they have traded programs and success for the time being.

I am not here to talk about past accomplishments though; I’ll save that for the Wolverine fans. I’m here to explain what MSU fans should expect for the 2014-15 season. It’s no secret MSU has now established itself in football circles. Along with OSU, they will be the faces of the Big10 this season, and an early showdown at #3 Oregon will hopefully give Spartan, and Big10, fans an idea of where the conference is at on a national power scale. The Big10 should have a bounce back season after being basically the nations laughing stock of a conference the past couple years. Lack of top 25 teams and horrible bowl records all contributed to this. 2014-15 will be the first season for the College Football Playoff (equivalent to the College Basketball Final 4), and the Big10 is in prime position with two teams, Ohio State and Michigan State, who realistically will aim to make their bid.

Game-by-game analysis of how the Spartans will finish up this season:

Game 1 – Home Game vs Jacksonville State. Spartans W 34-14. MSU has to shake off the summer rust against a feisty, high-tempo offense of JSU. Dantonio scheduled this game to test his defense before the showdown with Oregon. MSU will just be too much to handle for the small school from Florida as it solidifies it’s O-Line and LB positions. We’ll also get an early glimpse at highly touted freshmen Malik McDowell, Montae Nicholson and Enoch Smith Jr.

Game 2 – Away Game vs Oregon. Spartans L 24-31. Playing the Ducks early in the season when they have fresh legs is hard enough, but playing them at home will prove to be the dagger. It should be a back and forth game, but I see Heisman favorite Marcus Mariota making a few too many big plays towards the end of the game and the Spartans defense will struggle to contain him.

Game 3 & 4 – Home Games vs Eastern Michigan and then Wyoming. Spartans W 27-7 and then W 41-10. I grouped these two games together because neither team should pose much threat to the Spartans. They will be a little lackluster against EMU after their bitter defeat to Oregon, but they’ll get an ugly win. Dantonio will whip them into shape in their last game before the regular season and they’ll put a beating on Wyoming on Homecoming day at Spartan Stadium.

Game 5 – Home Game vs Nebraska. Spartans W 23-13. This will be an early top 25 matchup between Big10 teams. Nebraska and MSU matchup very well against each other and this year they will have many of the same strengths. Both will have solid QB’s, great running backs and great defenses. This will most likely come down to who plays better on special teams and wins the turnover margin.

Game 6 – Away Game vs Purdue. Spartans W 45-17. Purdue should battle for one of the last spots in the conference this year, and let’s face it, West Lafayette isn’t the toughest place to play. Spartans will have a breakout offensive performance and there will be a lot of playing time for second stringers to solidify the depth chart heading into the middle of the season.

Game 7 – Away Game vs Indiana. Spartans W 34-24. Indiana is a team flying under the radar. I like their coach, they have a very explosive offense that can put up big numbers, and if they can put together even a decent defense they will be a bowl team this year. Spartans talent, depth, and defense will win out in the end.

Game 8 – Home Game vs Michigan. Spartans W 24-13. Michigan will be a better team than the one we saw last year. Their defense will keep the game much closer than last year’s 29-6 shellacking. The facts that Michigan will be coming back to Spartan stadium, and MSU’s offense will undoubtedly be improved from last years, that combination will prove to be too much for the Wolverines. This will also make it 6 of the last 7 meetings for the Spartans.

Game 9 – Home Game vs Ohio State. Spartans L 31-21. This will prove to be too much of an obstacle for MSU. This will be the 4th game against a top 25 opponent (assuming UofM can crack the rankings by week 8) and after the emotional victory against the Wolverines the week before, Ohio State’s offense will have more energy than the Spartans defense can handle. This breaks my heart because it means unless OSU slips up later on they will probably play for the Big10 Championship, destroying MSU’s chances of making the College Football Playoff.

Game 10 – Away Game vs Maryland. Spartans W 38-14. It will be a Spartan welcoming party for the first year Big10 Maryland Terrapins. The Spartans will recover fast from the crushing Ohio State loss and look to end the season strong, trying to play in either the Fiesta Bowl or Orange Bowl.

Game 11 – Home Game vs Rutgers. Spartans W 28-10. Much of the same for the Spartans. The offense will continue to play well behind the arm of Connor Cook and legs of Jeremy Langford. Rutgers will also be making their first appearance in the Big10 and will not fare well in a division with OSU, MSU, and Michigan.

India Stewart Dunning: Survivor and Scholar

Area Education
India Stewart Dunning with her mother, Loren
India Stewart Dunning with her mother, Loren

Her clothes are arranged by color.

 

Like Pippi Longstocking, she sleeps upside down, with her head at the footboard and her feet at the headboard.

 

Ever since first meeting “Bucky” in the Disney flick “The Emperor’s New Groove,” she’s been in love with squirrels. And in her own words, the two bouts of cancer she’s endured have only “helped to make me a better person.”

 

None of that showed up on her application form, but it just goes to demonstrate the moxie, whimsy and creativity reflected in the life of India Stewart Dunning, who is the second student in two years from Kent Career Tech Center to snag a coveted Gates Millennium Scholarship.

 

A graduate this past May from Forest Hills Northern High, India, 18, was preceded by 2013 Creston High standout Kaleab Mamo, 19, who just finished his freshman year at the University of Michigan. India just earned a certificate from KCTC’s pharmacy technology program, while Kaleab graduated from the alternative energy program.

 

Both India and Kaleab are in line to have all four years of their undergraduate education completely financed, with the option to renew in certain circumstances that might also fund their education through a doctorate degree. Each scholarship is worth upwards of $350,000.

 

More than 52,000 students applied for this year’s round of scholarship, the largest number in the program’s history. Gates Millennium Scholarships (GMS) are awarded by the United Negro College Fund through a historic $1 billion grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. They are specifically designed to assist students from predominantly urban districts who have earned a GPA of 3.3 or better and meet Pell Grant income eligibility criteria.

 

The scholarship recognizes strong leadership, community service and academic achievements. Labeled “the ultimate life-changer” by more than a few educators, the scholarships provide untold opportunities for qualifying minority students by covering the cost of college. They also cover the cost of studying abroad, and programs to further develop their leadership skills.

School News network
Along with India, Union High School student student Sophie Delacruz was selected for the Gates Millennium Scholarship in 2014

 

Along with India, Union High School student student Sophie Delacruz was selected for the Gates Millennium Scholarship in 2014.

 

It takes a lot to reduce India to tears, but the day the announcement came to the Dunning family’s front door was an emotional one: “I was ecstatic, and crying, and thanking God that I’d won, because it was truly a blessing,” she said.

 

That same scenario played out at Kaleab’s home last year on Grand Rapids’ North End: “It was very surprising,” said Kaleab. “I was certainly happy, and my mother was crying.”

School News Network 3
Kaleab Mamo has been working hard at the University of Michigan since being awarded the Millennium Scholarship in 2013

 

Both India and Kaleab are remarkable young adults, and not just for their academic accomplishments.   Kaleab Mamo has been working hard at the University of Michigan since being awarded the Millennium Scholarship in 2013.

 

Kaleab emigrated here from Ethiopia. His father came here first, and was granted political asylum. Kaleab and his mother followed, arriving on U.S. soil in 2009. Neither was able to speak English. In five short years, Kaleab has mastered not only the language, but ascended in other ways as well, and he now has his eye on a career as a neurosurgeon.

 

While at Creston, he was president of the National Honor Society, participated in a robotics competition, volunteered at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, and worked as a research specialist at Grand Valley State University. In his spare time, he enjoys watching French flicks.

 

Both Kaleab’s parents – father Tsehai Assefa and mother Woinishet Wolderman – are employed in the housekeeping department at Spectrum Health. Kaleab’s dream involves giving back: “My goal is to become a doctor and be able to volunteer in several countries, any third-world country, really. I know there are lots of opportunities in the world.”

 

India has dealt with more health issues than most her age, beginning in 2007, when she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Shortly after celebrating five years in remission, she was diagnosed with an especially rare form of cancer that involves her salivary gland, which she continues to fight now.

 

In large ways, she’s refused to let either malady serve as a major setback. In fact, they’ve only strengthened her resolve to serve others. She’s volunteered over the years at Michigan Blood, Planned Parenthood, the American Red Cross, and at events sponsored by Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

 

As a student at Northern, she served on the NHS Board of Directors that organizes community volunteer activities, as well as the Principal’s Leadership Team at KCTC. She also earned her varsity letter and pin for cheerleading and crew. At the Grand Rapids Township home she shares with her parents and brother Isiah – a senior at Grand Valley State University — you’ll find her bedroom adorned with pictures of family and friends, and also of R&B star “Drake.”

School News Network 2
Ottawa Hills student Tonyea Brown was awarded the scholarship in 2013

 

Ottawa Hills student Tonyea Brown was awarded the scholarship in 2013.

 

And, um, this: pics of squirrels.

 

She laughs: “One of my favorite movies is ‘The Emperor’s New Groove,’ and I just fell in love with the little squirrel (a buck-toothed cutie named ‘Bucky’).” After saying goodnight to Bucky, India prefers to sleep in reverse fashion, with her feet at the headboard. “I don’t know why,” she says, giggling again. “I just sleep better that way.”

 

While her room isn’t the neatest one in the home, she’s got her clothes organized to a “T,” with garments sorted according to color.

 

KCTC Principal John Kraus could not be more proud of both Kaleab and India, acknowledging how they bring a source of pride not only to their primary high schools and school districts, but KCTC, which has worked long and hard to earn the respect of patrons and educators over the last few decades.

 

“I don’t think this is a matter of happenstance, but instead a reflection of some very rigorous curriculum at both Creston and Forest Hills, and at KCTC,” he says.

 

“We’ve worked very hard to change the perception of what KCTC brings to college-bound students. We’re there to enhance their options and help them examine and explore a wide breadth of pathways.”

 

Kaleab Mamo has been working hard at the University of Michigan since being awarded the Millennium Scholarship in 2013.

 

To that end, KCTC engages with people in the services and industries their programs aim to serve, and teams with them to create dynamic advisory boards aimed to give students real-life experiences.

 

“We love seeing the individual stories of achievement,” Kraus says, “and I was present the day after India found out she’d won the Gates scholarship. The smile and delight on her face and on her mother’s face was priceless.”

 

Kraus says he’ll be tracking Kaleab and India as they progress through and beyond college. “I believe,” he says, “that they might change the world.”

 

“Actually,” he adds, “I know they will.”

 

To read more stories from the School News Network:  http://www.schoolnewsnetwork.org/

Back to School Means Back to High School Football!

Local Faces, Sports

WKTV is bringing you another exciting season of High School Football, starting with the season opener at East Kentwood on Thursday, August 28th, 2014. Then we will

bring you the game of the week every Friday night onLive Wire Comcast Channel 24 Metro-Wide @ 10:30pm and repeat Saturday on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 in

Wyoming & Kentwood @ 11:00am. Support your team in every way by going to their games and cheering them on,then watch the featured game of the week on WKTV !

Thursday   8/28   Everett @ East Kentwood Friday         

9/5  Caledonia @  South Christian

Friday   9/12   Godwin Heights @ Lee

Friday   9/19   East Kentwood  @ Grandville 

Friday   9/26   Greenville @ Wyoming

Friday        10/3    TNT @ Lee 

Friday        10/10  Hudsonville @ East Kentwood

Friday        10/17  Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville

Friday        10/24  Wayland @ South Christian

Local Sports Schedule for September

Sports

Following the Labor Day holiday weekend, the school year began for all classes and certainly all of the fall seasons as they immediately kick into full gear. WKTV’s football games of the week continue with the following schedule for the month.

 

Friday September 5 Caledonia at South Christian
Friday September 12 Godwin Heights at Wyoming Lee
Friday September 19 East Kentwood at Grandville
Friday September 26 Greenville at Wyoming

 

These games are initially broadcast at 11:30 Friday night on Comcast Cable, Channel 24 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 along with a rebroadcast at 11 AM Saturday morning.

 

Tuesday September 2, 2014
Girls Golf – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Boys Soccer – East Kentwood @ Portage Northern
– Godwin Heights @ Covenant Christian
– Kent City @ Wyoming Lee
– Wellsprings Prep @ Zion Christian
Boys Tennis – Hudsonville @ South Christian
– Zeeland West @ Wyoming
Girls Volleyball – Godwin Heights @ Union (Scrimmage)
– TBA @ Tri-Unity (Scrimmage)

 

Wednesday September 3, 2014
Boys Tennis – Jenison @ East Kentwood
– Wyoming @ FH Northern
– NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
Girls Volleyball – EK Lady Falcon Invite #2 @ EK
Girls Golf – South Christian @ NorhtPointe Christian – NPC Invite
Boys/Girls Cross Country – South Christian @ Wayland – Jamboree
– Wyoming @ Cedar Springs – Jamboree
Boys Soccer – Wyoming @ Northview

 

Thursday September 4, 2014
Girls Golf – East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
– South Christian @ OK Gold Jamboree – Quail Ridge
Girls Swimming – East Kentwood @ Traverse City Central
Boys Soccer – East Kentwood @ South Christian
– Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian

– Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
– Zeeland West @ Wyoming
– Hopkins @ Kelloggsville
Western Michigan Christian @ Grand River Prep
Boys Tennis – South Christian @ Unity Christian
Girls Volleyball – Catholic Central @ South Christian
– Tri-Unity @ Holland Calvary
– Kelloggsville @ Potter’s House
– Union @ Zion Christian

 

Friday September 5, 2014
Boys Water Polo – EK Shoot Out at The Shore @ EK
Boys Football – Forest Hills Central @ East Kentwood
– Caledonia @ South Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ White Cloud
– Comstock Park @ Wyoming
– Kent City @ Kelloggsville
Boys Soccer – Kelloggsville @ Coopersville
– Zion Christian @ Holland Black River

 

Saturday September 6, 2014
Boys Water Polo – EK Shoot Out at The Shore @ EK
Boys Tennis – East Kentwood @ Holland Invite
– South Christian Quad @ South Christian
– Wyoming @ Zeeland East
Girls Volleyball – WMVOA Tournament @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ East Kentwood–WMVOA Tourn.
Boys/Girls Cross Country – EK @ Fremont – Hill and Bale Invite
– Christian School Invite @ South Christian
– Lee @ Fremont – Hill and Bale Invite
– Godwin Heights @ Muskegon
– Wyoming @ West Ottawa Bredeweg Invit.
– Kelloggsville @ Fremont-Hill and Bale In.
Girls Swimming – EK @ West Ottawa – West Michigan Relays

 

Monday September 8, 2014
Girls Golf – Grandville and Rockford @ East Kentwood
– Wyoming @ Greenville – Jamboree
Boys/Girls Cross Country – East Kentwood @ Middleville T-K Invite
– South Christian @ Middleville T-K Invite
– Grand River Prep@Middleville T-K Invite
– Wyoming @ Middleville T-K Invite

– West Michigan Aviation@Middleville T-K
Boys Soccer – FH Northern @ East Kentwood
– Calvin Christian @ South Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ Western Michigan Christian
Boys Tennis – South Christian @ Holland Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park
Girls Volleyball – Wyoming Lee @ Saugatuck
– Kelloggsville @ Saugatuck

 

Tuesday September 9, 2014
Girls Swimming – EK Quad @ East Kentwood
Boys Soccer – East Kentwood @ Grandville
– South Christian @ Catholic Central
– Potter’s House @ Zion Christian
– Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity
– Cedar Springs @ Wyoming
Girls Volleyball – Godwin Heights @ Union
– Tri-Unity @ Covenant Christian
– Grand River Prep @ Western Michigan Christian
– Potter’s House @ Zion Christian
Girls Golf – Wayland @ Wyoming

 

Wednesday September 10, 2014
Girls Golf – EK @ The Meadows – OK Red Mid Season
– Wyoming @ FH Eastern – Jamboree
Boys Tennis – East Kentwood @ Rockford
– South Christian @ Catholic Central
– Wyoming @ Greenville
– Kelloggsville @ West Catholic
Boys/Girls Cross Country – Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
– Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian

 

Thursday September 11, 2014
Girls Swimming – Jenison @ East Kentwood
Boys Soccer – East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
– Ottawa Hills @ South Christian
– NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
– Wyoming @ FH Eastern
– Zion Christian @ Calvary Christian
Girls Golf – South Christian @ Wayland – OK Jamboree
Girls Volleyball – Ottawa Hills @ South Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
– Zeeland West @ Wyoming
– Zion Christian @ Calvary Christian

Boys/Girls Cross Country – Grand River Prep @ Covenant Christian

 

Friday September 12, 2014
Girls Golf – East Kentwood @ Kenowa Hills – Russ Johnson Invite
Boys Water Polo – East Kentwood Varsity Invite @ EK
Boys / Girls Cross Country – East Kentwood @ MSU Spartan Invite
Boys Football – Union @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Unity Christian
– Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
– Sparta @ Wyoming
– Kelloggsville @ Buchanan
Boys Soccer – Wyoming Lee @ Algoma Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Kent City

 

Saturday September 13, 2014
Boys Water Polo – East Kentwood Varsity Invite @ EK
Girls Volleyball – EK Classic Volleyball Invite @ EK
– South Christian @ EK Classic Volleyball Invite
– Godwin Heights @ Zion Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Zion Christian
– Grand River Prep @ Zion Christian
– Wyoming @ Grandville Invitational
Boys/Girls Cross Country – South Christian @ Sparta Invite
– Godwin Heights @ Fennville
– Wyoming Lee @ Sparta Invite
– Wyoming @ Sparta Invite
– Kelloggsville @ Sparta Invite
– Grand River Prep @ Sparta Invite
Boys Football – Pittsford @ TNT
Boys Soccer – Jenison @ Wyoming

 

Monday September 15, 2014
Boys Tennis – Grandville @ East Kentwood
– Wyoming @ Northview
Boys Water Polo – Portage Central @ East Kentwood
Boys Soccer – East Kentwood @ Caledonia
– Muskegon Catholic @ Potter’s House
– Zion Christian @ Barry County Christian
Girls Golf – South Christian @ GR Christian
Girls Volleyball – Wyoming Lee @ Saranac
– Spring Lake @ Wyoming

 

Tuesday September 16, 2014
Girls Golf – East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
– OK Jamboree @ Wyoming
Boys / Girls Cross Country – EK @ Grand Haven Jamboree
Girls Swimming – Northview @ East Kentwood

Boys Soccer – Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
– Hastings @ South Christian
– Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
– FH Northern @ Wyoming
– Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
– Covenant Christian @ Grand River Prep
– Heritage Christian Academy @ Zion Christian
Girls Volleyball – Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
– Western Michigan Christian @ Tri-Unity
– Covenant Christian @ Kelloggsville
– Heritage Christian Academy @ Zion Christian

 

Wednesday September 17, 2014
Boys Tennis – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– Hastings @ South Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Coopersville
Boys Water Polo – Rockford @ East Kentwood
Girls Golf – OK Gold Jamboree @ South Christian
– Wyoming @ Cedar Springs – Jamboree
Boys/Girls Cross Country – OK Gold Jamboree @ South Christian
– OK Jamboree @ Wyoming
Boys Soccer – South Christian @ Middleville T-K

 

Thursday September 18, 2014
Girls Golf – East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Girls Volleyball – Grandville @ East Kentwood
– Hastings @ South Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
Boys Soccer – East Kentwood @ Rockford
– Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
– Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
– Byron Center @ Wyoming
– NorthPointe Christian @ Kelloggsville
– Kelloggsville @ Lakewood
Boys/Girls Cross Country – Godwin Heights @ Fremont
– Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Delton-Kellogg Invite
– Grand River Prep @ Ravenna
Boys Tennis – Kelloggsville @ Western Michigan Christian

 

Friday September 19, 2014
Boys Football – East Kentwood @ Grandville
– FH Eastern @ South Christian
– Pine River @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
– Centreville @ TNT
– Wyoming @ Ottawa Hills
Girls Golf – Wyoming @ Middleville T-K – TK Invitational

 

Saturday September 20, 2014
Girls Volleyball – East Kentwood @ Caledonia – Elite Classic
– Godwin Heights @ Muskegon Oakridge
– Wyoming Lee @ Ottawa Hills
– Grand River Prep @ Ottawa Hills
– Wyoming @ Calvin Christian
– Zion Christian @ Grace Christian
Boys Tennis – East Kentwood @ Holt Invite
– Sailor Invite @ South Christian
Boys/Girls Cross Country – East Kentwood @ Jackson Invite
– South Christian @ Cougar-Falcon Invite
– Godwin Heights @ Lowell
– Lee @ Cedar Springs Red Hawk Invite
– Kelloggsville @ Cedar Springs Invite
Girls Swimming – GR Christian @ East Kentwood
Boys Soccer – Christian @ Wyoming

 

Monday September 22, 2014
Boys Tennis – East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores
– South Christian @ Middleville T-K
– Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
Boys Water Polo – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Girls Golf – South Christian @ East Lansing Invite
– Wyoming @ FH Northern – Jamboree
Girls Volleyball – South Christian @ Zeeland East Chix Quad
Boys Soccer – Wyoming Lee @ Wellsprings Prep
– Grand River Prep @ Kelloggsville

 

Tuesday September 23, 2014
Girls Golf – West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
Boys Soccer – Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
– Wayland @ South Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
– Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
– Wyoming @ Greenville
– Grand River Prep @ Western Michigan Christian
– Algoma Christian @ Zion Christian
Girls Golf – South Christian @ Hastings
– South Christian @ Wayland
Girls Volleyball – Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity
– Wyoming @ Cedar Springs
– Algoma Christian @ Zion Christian
Boys/Girls Cross Country – @Grand River Prep

 

Wednesday September 24, 2014
Boys Tennis – East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
– Wayland @ South Christian- FH Eastern @ Wyoming
– Sparta @ Kelloggsville
Boys Water Polo – East Kentwood @ Zeeland East
Boys/Girls Cross Country – Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
– Wyoming @ Wayland

 

Thursday September 25, 2014
Girls Golf – East Kentwood @ Rockford
– South Christian @ Middleville T-K
Girls Swimming – Rockford @ East Kentwood
Girls Volleyball – West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Middleville T-K
– Tri Meet @ Godwin Heights
– Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights Tri Meet
– Tri-Unity @ Wellsprings Prep
– FH Eastern @ Wyoming
– Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
– Zion Christian @ Holland Black River
Boys Soccer – Grandville @ East Kentwood
– Catholic Central @ South Christian
– Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
– NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
– Zion Christian @ Potter’s House
– Tri-Unity @ Holland Calvary
– Northview @ Wyoming
– Kelloggsville @ Hopkins

 

Friday September 26, 2014
Boys Water Polo – East Kentwood Birdhouse Bash
Boys Football – East Kentwood @ Jenison
– South Christian vs Catholic Central @ 5/3 Park
– Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
– Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
– Marcellus @ TNT
– Greenville @ Wyoming
– Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Boys Soccer – GR Christian @ South Christian
– Zion Christian @ Wellsprings Prep
– Wyoming @ Calvin Christian (Scrimmage)
Boys Tennis – Kelloggsville @ Wyoming

 

Saturday September 27, 2014
Boys Water Polo – East Kentwood Birdhouse Bash
Girls Volleyball – EK @ Rockford – Power League VB Tournament
– Godwin Heights @ Saranac
– Zion Christian @ Saranac
– Tri-Unity @ Saranac
– Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville Rocket Invite
– Wyoming @ Zeeland East

Boys/Girls Cross Country – EK @ Union Redhawk Invite
– Wyoming Lee @ Allendale Falcon Invite
– Kelloggsville @ Allendale Falcon Invite
– Wyoming @ Union
Girls Swimming – Holland @ East Kentwood

 

Monday September 29, 2014
Girls Golf – East Kentwood @ FH Northern – Ernie Popel Invite
– South Christian @ FH Northern – Ernie Popel Invite
– Wyoming @ Lakewood
Boys Tennis – Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
– Byron Center @ South Christian
– Middleville T-K @ Wyoming
Boys Water Polo – East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
Boys Soccer – South Christian @ Caledonia
Girls Volleyball – Godwin Heights @ Saugatuck
– Wyoming Lee @ Saugatuck

 

Tuesday September 30, 2014
Boys/Girls Cross Country – East Kentwood @ Grandville Jamboree
Boys Soccer – West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
– South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
– Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
– Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
– Tri-Unity @ Grand River Prep
– Wyoming @ Cedar Springs
– Holland Calvary @ Zion Christian
Girls Volleyball – Covenant Christian @ Tri-Unity
– Wyoming @ FH Northern
– Western Michigan Christian @ Grand River Prep
– Holland Calvary @ Zion Christian
Boys Tennis – Kelloggsville @ Ottawa Hills

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day at a local business!

Local Entertainment

Lindo Mexico is celebrating Mexican Independence Day on Sept. 13.

Are there other celebrations you’d like to share? Please Join us to Celebrate Mexican Independence Day and have some fun. September 13, 2014. Live Music with Mariachi / Ranchera Singer Gabriel Estrada III.   We are located at 1292 28th St SW, Wyoming, MI.

Call us to make your reservation 616-261-2280

Lindo Mexico

September Calendar of Events for Kent District Library

Area Education, Local Entertainment

 

Kent District Library Kent District Library

 

Kent District Library

 

September 2014 Calendar of Events • 784-2007

 

Visit www.kdl.org for more programs and information.

 

Fall into Fun.  Here is a complete list of Kent District Library events for the entire family.

 

This calendar contains program highlights. Most KDL branches offer additional programs including Book Discussions, Storytimes and a variety of computer classes. Please visit www.kdl.org for more information. For Children and Families

 

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. Thursday, September 4, 9:30 AM – Englehardt Branch (Lowell) Thursday, September 4, 1:00 PM – Alto Branch Saturday, September 27, 10:00 AM – Caledonia Township 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. Thursday, September 11, 6:00 PM – Spencer Township Branch Thursday, September 25, 4:00 PM – Alto 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. Saturday, September 13, 10:00 AM – Krause Memorial Branch (Rockford) Tuesday, September 16, 10:30 AM – Sand Lake/Nelson Township Branch Tuesday, September 16, 6:30 PM – Comstock Park Branch Wednesday, September 17, 10:30 AM – Comstock Park Branch Monday, September 22, 10:30 AM – Alto Branch Tuesday, September 30, 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) 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. Sunday, September 14, 2:00 PM – East Grand Rapids Branch Thursday, September 18, 6:30 PM – Caledonia Township Branch Saturday, September 27, 10:30 AM – Sand Lake/Nelson Township Branch

 

Sensational Senses! See, hear, smell, touch, taste! Come join us as we explore the world through our five sensational senses! For ages 6 and younger. Tuesday, September 16, 6:30 PM – Krause Memorial Branch Wednesday, September 24, 10:00 AM – Tyrone Township Branch Tuesday, September 30, 10:00 AM – Alpine Township 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. Thursday, September 18, 10:00 AM – Englehardt Branch (Lowell) Saturday, September 27, 10:30 AM – Gaines Township Branch Saturday, September 27, 1:30 PM – Sand Lake/Nelson Township Branch Sunday, September 28, 2:00 PM – East Grand Rapids Branch Tuesday, September 30, 6:30 PM – Krause Memorial Branch (Rockford)

 

Programs for Teens Grades 6 – 12

 

Lighting & Sound: Filmmaking Tips & Tricks Is tinny sound plaguing your movie? Are shadows overrunning your story? Then this two-hour interactive workshop is for you! Learn helpful tips and tricks to improve the lighting and sound of your no-budget or low-budget film. Take your film to the next level by discovering everyday household items you can use to enhance the quality of your film’s lighting and sound. Information about free or low-cost community filmmaking resources will also be provided. Pre-registration is required and participant spots are limited. Saturday, September 13, 1:00 PM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch

 

Teen Halo Tournament Calling all teens! Think you have what it takes to compete in our Halo 4 multiplayer tournament? Bring a partner and battle the best of the best in this first-person shooter competition. The last team standing wins the prize! Pre-registration is required and participant spots are limited. Wednesday, September 24, 6:00 PM – Grandville Branch For Adults

 

KDL Uncorked: Winemaking 101 Join wine aficionado Steve Siciliano, owner of Siciliano’s Market, as he talks about the ins and outs of making wine at home. Learn about the basic equipment and procedures needed for making wine from concentrated kits, as well as with fresh fruits and vegetables. Thursday, September 4, 6:00 PM – Gaines Township Branch Tuesday, September 16, 6:30 PM – Byron Township Branch Wednesday, September 17, 6:30 PM – Grandville Branch Thursday, September 18, 6:30 PM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch Wednesday, September 24, 6:30 PM – Plainfield Township Branch

 

Early Childhood Essentials: Communicating with Respect Everyone has feelings, so we must learn how to recognize, manage and communicate feelings, and learn to recognize the feelings of others. In this workshop we will work to define I-Statements and You-Messages, explore ways to model appropriate communication styles and help caregivers teach children how to manage their feelings. 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. Thursday, September 11, 6:30 PM – Plainfield 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, September 13, 10:00 AM – Cascade 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, September 13, 11:30 AM – Cascade Township Branch

 

Early Childhood Essentials: Moral Development and Fostering Goodness This program will explore the stages children go through in learning the difference between right and wrong. Theories of moral development and practical tips will help early childhood professionals better understand how young children think and act. A second session held later in the season entitled Discipline with Fewer Tears will build upon knowledge gained in this session. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Adults only please; child care is not provided. Sponsored by Great Start CONNECT. Monday, September 15, 6:00 PM – Wyoming Branch Thursday, September 18, 6:30 PM – Byron Township Branch KDL

 

Uncorked: Wine Tasting with Rose’s Wine enthusiast Bill Koski of Rose’s Restaurant will outline the basics of selecting wines and lead a free tasting. Participants must be 21 or older. Pre-registration is required and spots are limited. Part of the national “Outside the Lines” campaign aimed at demonstrating the creativity and innovation happening in libraries. Monday, September 15, 6:30 PM – East Grand Rapids Branch

 

KDL Uncorked: Wine Tasting & Tour at Cascade Winery Wine crafters and owners Rose & Bob Bonga invite you for an educational tour of the Cascade Winery (4665 Broadmoor Ave. SE, Grand Rapids). Enjoy a variety of seasonal wines for 50 cents per taste. Participants must be age 21 or older. Pre-registration is required and spots are limited. Offered as part of the national “Outside the Lines” campaign aimed at demonstrating the creativity and innovation happening in libraries. Tuesday, September 16, 6:00 PM – Cascade Township 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. Monday, September 22, 6:30 PM – Sand Lake/Nelson Township Branch

 

Early Childhood Essentials: Getting Ready to Write For 3-5 year-olds This interactive session explores what young children must understand before they become interested in drawing, coloring and writing their name. Learn to encourage interest and fine motor coordination for writing. Part 2 will focus on 3 to 5-year-olds, the stages of writing and the use of creative spelling by children. 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, September 22, 6:30 PM – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch

 

KDL Uncorked: Meet the Author: Rick Sigsby The author of “Michigan’s Holy Water: The Great Lakes Wine Bible” spent 15 months traveling the state interviewing wine makers and vineyard owners. His book offers a peek behind the door of the tasting room. Thursday, September 25, 6:00 PM – Krause Memorial Branch (Rockford)

 

Harvesting and Saving Garden Seeds Learn the tricks to successfully collecting and saving vegetable and flower seeds. Use the seeds to start your garden next year, share with your neighbors and contribute to KDL’s Seed Library. Thursday, September 25, 6:30 PM – East Grand Rapids Branch

 

KDL Uncorked: Wine Tasting at Kayla Rae Cellars Join us at 31 Courtland St. in Rockford to enjoy buy-one-get-one tastings, cheese samples from Farm Country Cheese House in Lakeview and a presentation by winery owner Karen Grossman on how current wine and cider selections were developed, created and refined. Participants must be 21 or older. Pre-registration is required and spots are limited. Thursday, September 25, 7:00 PM – Krause Memorial Branch

 

Early Childhood Essentials: Journaling with Young Children – EGR Hands-on experiences designed around daily activities, and ways to use them to create early reading/writing activities that you and your child can share. Participants will use three daily experiences to write a journal entry with your child, learn methods to share it together and understand strategies for remembering, reliving and enjoying it! Session offers one hour of professional development. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. Adults only please; child care is not provided. Saturday, September 27, 10:00 AM – East Grand Rapids Branch

 

Write Michigan Short Story Workshop: It Lives! Revision and Re-Vision Rewriting is a crucial part of fiction writing. Author Caitlin Horrocks, New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice honoree, will outline strategies for successful revision on many levels, from ruthless line editing to wholesale re-envisioning of stalled or stale stories. There will be readings, discussion and exercises to make problematic pieces more promising. Pre-registration is required and spots are limited. Saturday, September 27, 1:00 PM – Plainfield Township Branch

 

KDL Uncorked: Wine Tasting with Pauly’s Paul Faba, owner of Pauly’s in Lowell, will pique your palate’s interest with a few of his favorite Michigan wines. Participants must be age 21 or older. Pre-registration is required and spots are limited. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Monday, September 29, 6:30 PM – Englehardt Branch (Lowell)

 

Early Childhood Essentials: Sugar Shock Science is increasingly hinting at a link between sugar and poor health. What’s more, the advice on sugar substitutes can be even more confusing. How much is too much, and where are added sweeteners lurking in the food and drinks both you and your kiddos enjoy? Registered dietitian Jessica Corwin, MPH will explore just how toxic this nutrient actually is. 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, September 29, 6:30 PM – Krause Memorial Branch (Rockford)

 

Early Childhood Essentials: Let’s Go Outside! Spending time outside, year-round, offers wonderful learning opportunities and it’s also just good fun! Review the benefits of daily outdoor time, make an Outdoor Action Plan and gain/share some new ideas about outdoor activities. 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. Tuesday, September 30, 6:30 PM – Caledonia Township Branch

Recipes from the Heart!

How-To's, Local Food


Recipes carry treasures from the heart and they are very sentimental in nature.

Many may not agree that cooking can be fun, but I think it is.

Standing in the kitchen preparing a meal that was handed down from generation to generation became a norm for some of us. Perhaps, you may have experimented and created some delicious dishes on your own.

There are so many tricks of the trade when it comes to cooking and baking.  It might have taken you a while to figure things out but you finally recognized that when you seasoned your poultry; you could use also the same seasoning for steak, ground beef, pork roast, etc.  You may have to experiment to find the right cooking temperature for a certain dish.  Or maybe your cookies turn out  better with a tad more vanilla added to the recipe.

When the kids grow older and move out, you find yourself cooking fewer meals. Your dinner may be at times a TV dinner or food from a fast food restaurant–sometimes a bowl of cereal does the trick. The burden of cooking everyday is off your shoulder. But, you still treasure the memories of the time you spent together around the dinner table. You treasure those precious moments when you came up with some wonderful creative dishes. Your entire heart and soul were involved in creating those dishes. It was because the dish was created with love.

Of course, recipes and the memories; they serve are sentimental. Here is my favorite recipe for Sweet Potato Pie to add to your family cooking diary.  It is one of my favorites.

Sweet Potato Pie

2 Large sweet potatoes                                           1 stick of butter

1 ½ to 2 cups of sugar                                               2 eggs

1 tablespoon ground nutmeg                                   1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract                                    2 small unbaked pie crust

1 cup marshmallow                                                    ½ cup of chopped pecans

1 cup of whole pecans

Cut off the skin on the potatoes. Slice the potatoes before placing them in the water. The thinner you can slice them the more quickly the potatoes will get done. Boil the potatoes for about 40 to 55 mins or until done. The potatoes will be very soft and mushy. Make sure the potatoes are not lumpy. Run cold water over sweet potatoes.

Next place sweet potatoes in a bowl. Add butter, sugar, eggs, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla flavor, crushed pecans, and marshmallows and mix well with the mixer. Place the sweet potatoes with the ingredients in a pot . Let the ingredients cook very slowly inside the pot for about 5 minutes or until  you see the marshmallow dissolve. Watch carefully so that it will not burn. Make sure the marshmallows dissolve completely.

Place your unbaked pie crusts in oven for a few minutes then pull them out of the oven. Then put the sweet potatoes inside the pie crust. Bake at 350o degrees for 15 minutes or until the fork you place in the center of it come out clean. After you have taken it out of the oven, place the whole pecans around it. To keep your pie crust from over browning cover edges.

Bake in the middle of the rack.

New Jersey Artist Introduces his Car-Toon Truck to Metro Cruise

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Cities

1928 Roadster pays tribute to old cars and cartoons!

The Car-Toon Truck has a personality all it's own and yes, it is fully operational.
The Car-Toon Truck has a personality all it’s own and yes, it is fully operational.

 

janice_limbaughIt isn’t your typical old classic car in the street-sassy sense, but when the Car-Toon Truck drives up and makes a stop, heads do turn and eyeballs pop wide open for a closer look. That’s because this 1928 Ford Model AR Roadster pickup truck has been transformed into a historical documentary on comics dating back to 1896 and into the present!

Robert Luczun and his Car-Toon Truck were sponsored by Marge's Donut Den. Even the engine is airbrushed.
Robert Luczun and his Car-Toon Truck were sponsored by Marge’s Donut Den. Even the engine is airbrushed.

 

Robert Luczun from Clifton, New Jersey has spent over 3,000 hours of brush/airbrush art on the ’28 Roadster. It all started in 2004 when he bought the car and entirely rebuilt it. But Luczun took the project one step further. “Being an airbrush artist, I can paint anything – anything at all. I happen to love cartoons. I have them painted on my fence posts all around my house. I did it for my kids, they loved it. Now my grandkids love it. So I thought ‘Hey! Everybody love cartoons – I’m going to paint them on this car,’ and I did!” Luczun explains enthusiastically.

 

“I started out with the very first cartoon from 1896 (The Yellow Kid) and that’s painted on the backside of the rear view mirror. Then I kept going through present day. It’s gets harder and harder to fit them in as they come out, but I do,” he laughs.

 

The first time Luczun (a car lover as well as a cartoon lover and retired fine arts professor), took the car to Hershey, PA and the largest antique car show in the world, he admits he was worried about the reaction he’d get.

 

“This was a show filled with hard-core  Model-A guys. I thought they might hang me!” he laughs. “But I kept everything else about the car authentic except the paint. They loved it!”

 

Luczun says his next big challenge was introducing the car to artists at Comic-Con in New York City. “Some of these guys were the original artists and they said they wished they thought of it!”

 

Some of these same artists wanted to be a part of Luczun’s cartoon truck so they gave him original art plates to put in the truck bed.

Cartoon Car CP

 

“As you can see, this car draws people in like a magnet,” he added as a young family swarmed around the car for a better look. “And I wanted the car to do more than attract attention, so I decided to use it to collect money for the Wounded Warrior Project.”

 

With his son in the Air Force and having been stationed in Afghanistan, Luczun knows of the hardships veterans face. So on the side of the truck, Luczun created a donation box for the cause. He says the Car-Toon Truck helps him collect up to $5000 a year for the Wounded Warrior project and other veteran causes. The popularity of the Car-Toon Truck has car shows paying Luczon for an appearance. “And that money they pay me, gets donated as well.”

 

While Robert Luczun’s passions are comics and old cars, his heart is into donating time, talent and money to good causes, like helping the troops.

 

This was his first visit to Michigan with the Car-Toon Truck in what we hope won’t be his last.

100_1747

100_1748

Not Your Grandmother’s Quilt!

Local Entertainment, Local Faces,

Quilt #1

By: Michele Aversa

 

Another successful AQS Quilt Week in Grand Rapids has come and gone. More than 10 thousand people attended the expo recently which had approximately 150 vendors on site and over 400 remarkable quilts on display.

Quilt Woman with Two Gents

The event involved four days of classes taught by internationally praised instructors, contests with total cash prizes of $50,750, sales of sewing and long-arm quilting machines, quilting kits, appraisals, fabric bolts and jelly rolls of the newest and most exciting patterns of the season.

 

For a beginning quilter like me, it was a lot to take in at one time: Every corner of DeVos Place Convention Center was packed with crisp fabrics stacked high – brick reds, deep blues, autumn oranges and sparkling yellows filled my vision. Women were everywhere, talking with excitement, planning new projects, watching demonstrations of the latest techniques and recording it all on camera phones.

 

Yes, women were everywhere. Only a few men were brave enough to dip their toes into this fabric frenzy! The ratio of women to men was approximately 100/1.
My first stop was the exhibit by the international non-profit organization Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) Masters II. Included in their collection were quilts from the Netherlands, Switzerland, South Africa and many other countries.     Quilt #4

 

These were nothing like my grandmother’s quilts!

 

Where I was expecting blocks and triangles, I found fluid shapes and graceful contours. I presumed neon-bright colors would assault my eyes from every direction, and that dots and swirled patterns would plague the majority of designs. I learned quickly that it wasn’t the craft of quilting that was stuck in the dark ages – it was me!

 

Each quilt seemed to have been created using an artist’s brush, not fabric, needles and machines. The works were not bedspreads or blankets. They were extensions of their creator, the physical result born from a wisp of imagination.

 

Two in particular forever changed the way I think of quilting. The first, titled Woman with 2 Gents, by Leslie Gabriëlse– Rotterdam, Netherlands, at initial glance looked like a painting. I did a double-take. Dark blue and black plaid fabrics made up her long hair. Small scraps of textiles embroidered on her face became delicate shading details of her feminine features.

 

The second, titled Theatre, by Izabella Baykova – Saint Petersburg, Russia, also caught me off-guard. The work depicts 19 private boxes at a theatre, each containing different characters such as Dracula, 5 nuns, a mafia family and a bride. The intricate detail, impressive enough in a painting, is made all the more extraordinary knowing it is fabric and thread.    Quilt Theater

 

Another collection on display was a mix of heart and art. The traveling exhibit, “Quilted In Honor”, is a dedication to our servicemen and servicewomen. The pieces were created by celebrities in the quilting world to support Operation Homefront and The Wounded Warrier Project. The majority of the colors that were used were red, white and blue fabric. When the quilts finish their “tour of duty” in the spring of 2015, they will be auctioned off; the proceeds being donated to these two charities.   Quilted in their honor 2

 

The pièce de résistance was the internationally known 120-foot long Quilt of Belonging. The project began in the fall of 1998 by Canadian artist Esther Bryan. Each of the 263 blocks is 11”. The purpose of “Canada’s most comprehensive textile art project” is to celebrate that every culture is unique and beautiful in its own way. Materials from the specific area were used in the designs for each regions’ blocks, from cotton to seal skin, the gossamer wings of butterflies to silk. Finished in 2005 by Ms. Bryan and a team of dedicated volunteers, this remarkable cultural statement began its global tour, starting in the Arctic! For more information, visit their website.

 

Intricate to festive, subtle shifts of color to explosions in every block, winning quilts were on display at every turn. Some depicted sites, such as Arch Rock on Mackinaw Island (by Dorothy Janose & Karen McClurkin of Hastings, MI), and some celebrated the tradition of hand-sewn creations, such as 1st place winner for Hand Quilting, My Version of a Persian, by Christine Wickert, Penfield NY).

Quilt Belonging

 

“I’m on sensory overload,” said Mary King, first time Quilt Week attendee. “I couldn’t even do one square! It’s not just the design but all the work. It’s the execution, choosing the just the right fabrics and threads, and all the time it takes to put it together.”

 

I entered the convention center assuming quilts belonged on beds. I left the convention center knowing that quilts belonged in art museums. Quilt #3Quilt #2

Frankie V’s Pizzeria and Sports Lounge–actively involved in our community!

Local Business, Local Faces, Local Food
Frankie V's 8
A proud Grandpa–Frank Vitale holds his granddaughter close to his heart.

colleen_pierson

Frankie V's 6--use this one
Owner Frank Vitale on the job at Frankie V’s!

Frank Vitale, Owner of Frankie V’s Pizzeria and Sports Lounge in Wyoming, MI., believes in giving back.

 

“The community supports you, I have to give back,” he explained in a recent interview with WKTV’s Citizen Journalism program.

 

He grew up in a family who owns numerous restaurants in our area including Uccello’s Ristorante and Vitale’s restaurants.

 

“I started working in restaurants when I was ten years old,” he explained enthusiastically.  ” It is my passion.”

 

Frank was excited about taking part in this year’s Metro Cruise event.    He enjoyed seeing his customers have such a great time and the restaurant provided D.J’s and local bands to fire up the crowds during the event.  WKTV is also appreciative to him for providing a venue to sell raffle tickets for the 1970 Olds Cutlass Indy Pace Car Replica raffle.  Tickets can still be purchase online at 70OLDSRAFFLE.ORG.

 

“This is such a tight knit community.  Everybody knows everybody.  It is like a big reunion coming to work everyday and being part of the Wyoming area.”

 

Frank has four children and three grandchildren and takes great  pride in coaching football in Wyoming.   He also looks forward to the upcoming plans surrounding 28 West.

 

“This gives people such HOPE–such a renewed spark to bring people to our area,” he concluded.

 

Photo Credit: Janice Limbaugh

Frankie V's
Everyone at Frankie V’s took part in making Metro Cruise a big success!
Frank Vitale takes time out of his busy schedule to talk to WKTV's Colleen Pierson,
Frank Vitale takes time out of his busy schedule to talk to WKTV’s Colleen Pierson,

Local Families Needed to Host Chinese Students

Area Education, Our Cities, ,
july 2014 school 025
Pictured from left to right: Jean Wu, Bill Liu, Harry Liu, Autumn Watson, Kate Wolohan, Karlida Gonzales, and Marissa Steiner

kathy_grayEast Kentwood High School is in need of host families for Chinese students from the Weiming Education Group. The partnership between the Weiming Group and East Kentwood is in its second year; the first year’s pilot program being highly successful. Families are needed to house the students during the school year and provide them with the opportunity to learn about American education and family life.

july 2014 school 024
Pictured from left to right: Sarah Vangorden, Kathy Johnson, Ann Dunbar, Victoria Si, and Krystal Liu.

 

The Weiming Education Group is the largest, private education service provider in China. Their focus is on extending the reach of education with a global perspective. Parents choose to send their students to the Weiming School because it offers opportunities for their student to study abroad, learn English, and have the ability to live and interact with a local family. The CEO of the Weiming Group applauds the program’s goal as “relationship building” between our two nations.

 

East Kentwood High School will host 20 Chinese students, including 5 returning students (Krystal, Harry, Bill, Victoria, and Jean—their chosen American names) for the 2014-2015 school year. Most students are juniors and seniors. The returning students will also have the ability to take classes at Grand Rapids Community College, as well as receive a diploma from East Kentwood.

 

Evan Hordyk, Executive Director for Secondary Education in Kentwood, explains, “Being the second year of hosting the Weiming group will be much easier. The returning students will be a great resource.” Hordyk also introduced Erin Wolohan, who was hired as the International Student Coordinator at Kentwood Public Schools. Working as an English Language Learner (ELL) interventionist last year, Ms. Wolohan worked closely with the Weiming students. This year she will be much more involved in planning and supporting social events for the visiting students, as well as trouble shooting transportation and other issues.

 

John Keenoy, East Kentwood High School Principal, and his wife, Missy, hosted “Harry” in their home last year. “I was very reluctant to host a student,” Keenoy admits. He claims he had many excuses; his jobs at the principal of the school, both of his children being heavily involved in sports, and a very busy schedule. Now, Keenoy proudly smiles as he relates, “Harry is my Chinese son.”

 

“It was a great experience,” claims Missy Keenoy. The Keenoys have no problem with having Harry come back to stay with them this fall. With their own son heading off to college, they are opening to taking two students this year.

 

An informational meeting was held on July 29, 2014, with the host families from the 2013-2014 school year. There was much laughter and shared enjoyment as they recounted the learning experiences and fun they had during the year. “They are no trouble at all!” exclaimed Angela, “They are easier than your own kids; they even do their own laundry.” Most agreed that the East Garden Buffet was a favorite amongst the students.

 

Pam Jackson, who hosted “Bill” as their 12th foreign exchange student explained, “Your view of the world is totally different” after being a host family. Her children gained valuable insight from having students from across the globe stay with them. “You know someone in areas of the world that are in the news. It makes it more personal.”

 

“East Kentwood is a very globally diverse school boasting students from 50 countries, speaking at least that many different languages. When my children went to college they were used to diversity and there was nothing surprising about people from different cultures or backgrounds.”

 

With modern technology it is very easy for the students to keep in touch with friends and family. Even with the 12-hour time difference, host families can Skype with Chinese parents. Instead of just being a relationship between the student and the host family, both families become attached. Relationships are built and visits can be arranged for the Kentwood families to travel to China.

 

What does it take to be a host family? An open heart and an open bedroom. The Weiming students have their own money for expenses and the host family receives a stipend to cover food and other expenses.

 

The students generally have taken 9 years of English and have to pass an English proficiency test to qualify for the exchange program. Even so, they understand more than they can speak. Paula Zokoe and her husband hosted “Victoria” in their home. Victoria is returning this fall and they are open to having a second student as well. In order to emphasize English learning in their home, as well as to increase the communication among family members, Paula stated, “We employed an ‘English only’ rule, “with Victoria only able to communicate in Chinese after 9 p.m. each night.

 

Last year the students enjoyed attending football games, touring Saugatuck, Chicago, and the Lake Michigan shore. It was especially fun to introduce them to the holidays of Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and the American celebration of birthdays. Although these students enjoying experiencing the life of an American student, they are very studious and spend much of their evenings in their rooms. Hordyk explain, “They are used to boarding school life in the Weiming School. In China their school day can go from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Unlike most foreign exchange students these students are here for the education not the social experience.

 

No matter the differences in cultures, above all the Weiming students are typical teenagers. They like technology, they love the mall, and they are on the edge of the adult world. “Perhaps the coolest thing,” states Keenoy, “Is I got to see Harry discover his passion. He is a wonderful artist! They have freedom here to find out who they are and who they want to be.”

 

Keenoy and Hordyk, who traveled to China in preparation for the project last year, explained that China is very homogenous, most people look the same. There is very little diversity or originality. “They are missing the creativity and innovation,” shares Hordyk. Here they have the opportunity to explore different sports, the arts, and extracurricular activities.” A goal of the Weiming Project is for these students to share these freedoms when they return to China.

 

If you would be interested in hosting a student, or for more information, you can contact Evan Hordyk at Evan.hordyk@kentwoodps.org or Erin Wolohan at Erin.Wolohan@kentwoodps.org.

Job Corps offers Hands-on Training in Over 100 Technical Areas

Area Education

The economy calls for competitive job-seeking skills.  A non-profit that can help secure employment and training is Job Corps.

 

What is Job Corps?

 

Job Corps is:The nation’s largest career technical training and education program for low-income young people ages 16 through 24.

 

A voluntary program administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, and provides eligible young men and women with an opportunity to gain the experience they need to begin a career or advance to higher education.

 

Where is Job Corps?

 

Job Corps has 125 centers nationwide, including Hawaii, Alaska, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

 

When was Job Corps founded?
As part of “The War on Poverty,” on August 20, 1964, Congress enacted the Economic Opportunity Act and President Lyndon B. Johnson created Job Corps.

 

2014 marks Job Corps’ 50th anniversary.

 

How much does it cost to attend Job Corps?

 

Job Corps comes at no cost to students or their families, but does require a time commitment.

 

The most successful Job Corps students are enrolled in the program for 12 to 24 months.

 

What does Job Corps offer?

 

Hands-on training in more than 100 career technical areas.

 

The opportunity to earn a high school diploma or the equivalent, and assistance in preparing for college through educational partnerships.

 

Courses in independent living, employ-ability, and social skills.

 

Food, housing, and basic medical care.

 

Whom does Job Corps help?

 

Low-income young people ages 16 through 24 are eligible for Job Corps.
According to the most recent data available:

 

o 59 percent of Job Corps students are male, and 41 percent are female.
o 51 percent African-American, 28 percent white, 16 percent Hispanic.
o 2.7 million young people have graduated from Job Corps, and 60,000 young people are served by Job Corps each year.
o 82 percent of graduates joined the workforce, enlisted in the military, or enrolled in higher education.

 

What type of Career Technical training does Job Corp offer?

 

Job Corps offers hands-on training in more than 100 career technical areas ranging from automotive and machine repair to information technology and renewable resources.

 

All training programs are aligned with industry credentials and are designed to meet the requirements of today’s careers.

 

Job Corps’ “Work-Based Learning” and community service programs allow students to gain on-the-job experience through internships with local employers prior to graduation.

 

How do young people enroll in Job Corps?

 

Low-income young people ages 16 through 24 interested in Job Corps can start the enrollment process over the phone or online by:

 

o Calling (800) 733-JOBS [5627] to be put in touch with an admissions counselor their area.
o Requesting information using the online form, at www.recruiting.jobcorps.gov.
o Visiting Job Corps’ Facebook page at www.facebook.com/doljobcorps and clicking the “Enroll” tab.
o Spanish speakers can visit www.mifuturo.jobcorps.gov.

 

How can I find out more about Job Corps?

 

Anyone interested in applying to Job Corps should call (800) 733-JOBS [5627].

 

• Job Corps also has a number of online resources, including:
o A recruiting website, www.recruiting.jobcorps.gov.
o A Facebook page, www.facebook.com/doljobcorps.
o A YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/doljobcorps.

Mary and Molly–A Very Special Mother/Daughter Story!

Local Faces,
Molly and Mary 1
Photos by Macy Albaitis
Molly and Mary 3
Photo Credit: Macy Albaitis

susanne_albaitis

Molly VandeWater’s resume reads like that of most twenty-something’s. She has worked in restaurants, at the mall, has volunteered, plays the guitar and takes weekly dance classes. The only difference is that Molly has done all of that and she has Downs Syndrome.

 

I met with Molly and her Mom, her advocate and champion, Mary VandeWater at the Biggby Coffee on 28th Street in Grandville. We chatted for a little over an hour, touching on only a few of Molly’s many interests and accomplishments.

 

Molly came into this world ready for anything and everything. At less than one day old she had surgery to correct a pinch between her stomach and intestine. The surgery allowed her to digest food, but she still needed a second surgery on her trachea which would allow her to eat without a feeding tube. Mary spent two years battling with the insurance companies to cover the second surgery, and finally won. Molly went to Omaha, Nebraska for the corrective surgery and her health has flourished ever since.

 

When Molly began school, Mary wanted the teachers to “expect a lot out of Molly.”  Soon after Molly began elementary school in Wyoming, Michigan, she came home one day, found a comfy chair, turned on a lamp and sat down to read I Hate My Bow!, by Hans Wilhelm. Years later, when Molly graduated from high school, her elementary teacher gave her a copy of that book as a graduation gift. Her love of reading started with that book and has grown tremendously through the years.

 

After high school, Molly had two fabulous years at the Grandville Transition Center. Part of the center’s curriculum is real world experience for those with special needs. Molly spent her days working at Fazoli’s, Younkers and Big Boy. The Transition Center group also volunteered at Kids’ Food Basket and local churches. According to Molly, this is when she gained her confidence. Helping others and working alongside wonderful, supportive teachers gave Molly the extra boost she needed for the next chapter of her life.

 

Molly is now in college, taking classes at Grand Rapids Community College’s Noorthhoek Academy which was founded in 1989 to provide a college experience for special-needs students. Molly takes one class each semester and has already studied communications, China and photography.

 

For fun Molly participates in Shape Up!  This is a class that combines forty-five minutes of exercise with forty-five minutes of cooking/nutrition. Over the past year Molly has lost over thirty pounds and is teaching her whole family the benefits of healthy eating. She puts her cooking skills to work making her specialty, spaghetti and meatballs, on a regular basis.
One of Molly’s newer interests is a group called Young Life which meets at Calvin College once a week. The group pairs college students with special needs kids. Molly’s face lights up and her head goes back for a big laugh as she tells me about the whipped crème pies the college kids throw. But the group is about more than pie throwing, it gives both groups an opportunity to learn and grow from one another.

 

Like most mothers and daughters, Molly and Mary have a special bond. “She continually surprises me,” Mary said, with a smile that mirrors Molly’s. And I can see why. With Mary’s infinite love, anything is possible. She dug in her purse for a few seconds and then pulled out an information sheet for the 5K that Molly is running this fall.

 

For additional information on resources and advocacy regarding Downs Syndrome, please see the Downs Syndrome Association of West Michigan’s website at https://dsawm.org/

 

Photos by Macy Albaitis.

Molly and Mary 2
Photo Credit: Macy Albaitis

Everything you need to know about riding the Silver Line!

Our Cities, Upcoming Events

The Silver Line & Designated Lanes: 4 Questions Answered

The opening of the Silver Line on August 25 is coming up very soon. As we get closer to the maiden voyage of Michigan’s first bus rapid transit (BRT) line, here’s what you need to know about the designated lanes that will be in place along much of the route.

1. Where will the designated lanes be located?

The Silver Line will run between 60th Street and Division and Rapid Central Station.  The route is primarily along Division, but will loop through downtown to serve key employment centers, educational institutions, health care facilities, and entertainment venues. On August 25, about two-thirds of the 9.6-mile route will be reserved for buses only during peak periods of travel, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Bus-only lanes will be signed and marked running both directions of Division from Maplelawn Street, just north of 44th Street to Wealthy. The only exception regarding these designated lanes is about 500 feet north and south of the intersections at 36th, 28th, and Burton streets. There also will be a bus-only lane on Monroe Avenue NW between Michigan and Fulton streets.

Bus only lanes are a main stay in many cities around the world.2. When will the designated lanes be in use?

The designated lanes will be reserved for buses from 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. weekdays. All other traffic — excluding emergency and public service vehicles — will be prohibited from right lanes during rush hours. During reserved times, individual motorists will only the lane to make a right turn.

3. How will the designated lanes impact traffic?

“Engineering models suggest the bus-only lanes will have a “minimal” effect on traffic flow,” said Conrad Venema, strategic planning manager for The Rapid. “In most cases, we were not downgrading the traffic. It’s also important to note that the bus-only lanes will not exist at many intersections. While the stretches of the route in between these intersections may have delays.

4. Who will enforce the use of these designated lanes?

City police would enforce the use bus-only lanes, issuing civil infraction tickets. Ordinances for lane restriction enforcement are currently being reviewed by Wyoming and Kentwood.

We’re excited to see the Silver Line come to life in our community. If you’re seeking to travel within this corridor, the Silver Line is a low-cost, convenient, and easy option for getting you where you need to go!

Do you have any other questions about the designated bus-only lanes? Please share them in our comment section!

Written by The Rapid

The Rapid (Interurban Transit Partnership) is the authority that provides a variety of public transportation services for the Grand Rapids metro area and beyond. It is organized and operates under Michigan Public Act 196 of 1986.    For more information go to:  http://blog.ridetherapid.org/silver-line-designated-lanes/

Thanks to WKTV Volunteers, ‘Metro Cruise – the Concourse’ Highlights Community Television

WKTV Projects
100_1712
Doug Remtema, a WKTV volunteer for over 15 years, makes adjustments to the Jimmy-Jib camera that hovered above the red carpet.
Metro Cruise The Concourse
Thanks to the tireless efforts of WKTV staff and volunteers, this doesn’t look like the abandoned Klingman’s building or it’s parking lot.

by Janice Limbaugh

 

With the help of over 20 volunteers, WKTV Community Television & Media pulled off the prestigious production of “Metro Cruise—The Concourse” Friday night, featuring 26 rare and unusual cars in the transformed parking lot of the old Klingman’s building. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Metro Cruise, the cars made a grand entrance from behind  twenty-five foot tall red drapes to roll down a 100 foot long red carpet before a live audience, lights and multiple cameras. The show hosts, David Knisley from SPEED Television and Kim Carson from WLAV FM, interviewed the owners and gave inside facts about each of the cars presented.

Volunteers escort the first car into position. The 1935 LaSalle owned by Richard Zapalla opened the show.
Volunteers escort the first car into position. The 1935 LaSalle owned by Richard Zapalla opened the show.

“It’s like Oscar night for car collectors,” said Tom Norton, producer of the two-hour show and WKTV general manager. WKTV staff and volunteers spent six months and over 100 hours getting ready for the show’s production which showcased classic collectors from all over Michigan and Wisconsin. This year’s red carpet event was a salute to classic car clubs with special appearances by the West Michigan Rodders Club, West Michigan Buick Club and the West Michigan Cobra Club.

The East Kentwood Marching Band lines up for rehearsal on the red carpet.
The East Kentwood Marching Band lines up for rehearsal on the red carpet.

 

Kicking off the show with gusto was the 200-strong East Kentwood Marching Band with a fanfare salute to the music of Queen. Metro Cruise bystanders stopped by throughout the evening to check out the show while in progress. The outdoor live production gives residents the opportunity to experience what it takes to pull off an elaborate television program.

Behind the big red curtains, volunteers stand by to reveal a 1957 Jaguar XK150 owned by Edwin Frohbieter, a renowned classic car owner.
Behind the big red curtains, volunteers stand by to reveal a 1957 Jaguar XK150 owned by Edwin Frohbieter, a renowned classic car owner.

 

“We could never pull it off without the help of our volunteers,” Norton said. “Once trained on the equipment, volunteers come back time and time again to be a part of this production. It’s a lot of fun and we’re always looking for new volunteers. The potential for doing community TV programs like this are plentiful with more involved volunteers,” he said.

 

In the past, ‘Metro Cruise on the Concourse’ was aired live. This year the show was taped for editing purposes. The air date and time of this year’s show will be announced at a later date.

This 1961 Chrysler Imperial Crown features impressive fins on the back end. Owner Orrin Dorr was challenged to make the tight turn onto the red carpet - but he did it flawlessly.
This 1961 Chrysler Imperial Crown features impressive fins on the back end. Owner Orrin Dorr was challenged to make the tight turn onto the red carpet – but he did it flawlessly.
Citizen Journalist Colleen Pierson doubles as a behind-the-scenes on-camera talent for WKTV.
Citizen Journalist Colleen Pierson doubles as a behind-the-scenes on-camera talent for WKTV.