All posts by Joanne

WORDS–A Suprisingly More Powerful Art-Form than Most

Local Entertainment, Local Faces

A Visit with a Local Artist

By David Specht

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Beauty, they say, is in the eye of the beholder. This phrase, however, seems to exclude those individuals whom lack visual perception – an issue which The Diatribe, a contestant in this year’s ArtPrize, sought to resolve.

 

“The past few ArtPrizes have seen those who are blind and deaf in attendance,” said Azizi Jasper, one of seven members of The Diatribe. “But none of the ArtPrize entries have catered to them, so our entry engages these senses.”

Braille

 

The literal definition of the term diatribe is “a forceful and bitter attack against someone or something”- a definition that seems fit for a group of skilled wordsmiths who classify their entry, “Word,” as the anti-ArtPrize ArtPrize exhibit. The group features a talented line-up of rappers, hip hop artists, poets, and story tellers, consisting of members Mitch “’PoetlikePoe” Burns, Venson Dix, G Foster “Autopilot” II, Duke Greene, Stephen “NoMic” Gren, Azizi Jasper and Marcel “Fable” Price.

 

The artwork was located  in Dr. Grin’s Comedy Club on the third-floor of The B.O.B. in downtown Grand Rapids, “Word” features seven separate wooden panels, each displaying a combination of images, quotes, and biographies from the seven members of The Diatribe, with the quotes and biographies also available in braille form. The exhibit also features a video recording of the artists’ spoken word performances, along with a deaf-friendly signing of each performance within the video. The substance matter of the exhibit’s content caters to a number of audiences, ranging from impassioned expressions of emotional distress, to proactive ideas meant to spark nation-wide revolution.

 

The turnout was very good,” said Jasper. “This is the first year for me, and also the first time for all of us to come together, and I’ve formed lifelong relationships with some extremely talented and insightful writers.”

 

According to The Diatribe’s ArtPrize entry profile, their exhibit aims to transcend “from the venue, to the street, from our screens, to your screens, from our paper, to your fingers, from our fingers, to your eyes, life changing showcase, that will hopefully change the lives of many, and the outlook of Art Prize, for ALL.” One instance that stands out in Jasper’s mind has done just that.

50th Anniversary Celebration plans for Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Local Business, Our Cities,

 By Tara M Hernandez

Airport

Grand Rapids, Mich. – On November 23, 1963, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport opened at its current location. To commemorate 50 years of serving West Michigan, the airport will hold a 50th Anniversary celebration on Monday, November 25th, 2013.

 

The celebration will run from 1-3pm and is open to the public. It will include cupcakes, popcorn, beverages and ‘spin to win’ airport giveaways. Passengers and guests will also have the chance to enter two contests. A social media contest will feature a car detail package courtesy of Crystal Clean Automotive Detailing LLC & Standard Parking. In addition, guests and passengers in attendance on November 25th can enter a free parking contest. Five lucky people will win five free days of airport parking.

 

“Fifty years of service at our airport says a lot about the support from the West Michigan community and what better way to celebrate than to give back and share our anniversary with passengers and guests,” said GFIA Executive Director Brian Ryks.

 

“We are thankful to have such loyal passengers, and this is just one of the ways we will be celebrating our 50th Anniversary.”

 

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is the second busiest airport in Michigan and will continue to observe its anniversary throughout 2014 with other special giveaways, celebrations and surprises. GFIA will also unveil a 50th Anniversary commemorative logo on Monday, November 25th. The logo will be used to celebrate the anniversary until November 23, 2014.

 

Media is welcome to attend the 50th Anniversary celebration. Please contact Tara Hernandez to arrange for interviews and photo/video opportunities.

 

Stay updated with 50th Anniversary celebration plans and contests on the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Facebook page. Or, follow us on Twitter:@FlyGRFord.

The Hunt is On, Driving Economic Gains in Michigan

Local Business

By Michelle Grinnell

Deer hunting Pure Michigan

 

LANSING – As hunters celebrate another Deer season, Michigan’s economy stands to benefit from the influx of sportsmen and women taking to the woods and the fields. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported earlier this year that in 2011, hunting in Michigan generated more than $2.3 billion in economic impact, including $271 million directly related to trip expenses including food, lodging and transportation. Equipment costs made up 56 percent, or $1.3 billion, of expenditures. “Michigan has a strong hunting heritage, which translates into economic benefits for both the tourism and retail industries here in the state,” said Michigan Economic Development Corporation president and CEO Michael A. Finney. “Through our Pure Michigan campaign, and in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, we are promoting natural resources and diverse hunting opportunities available here in the state.”

 

Michigan currently ranks 4th in the nation for the number of licensed hunters in the state. This year, The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimates more than 580,000 individuals will hunt during the November 15-30 firearm season and that more than 90 percent of Michigan hunters will pursue deer this year. Annual hunting participation in Michigan – as in many states – has decreased from levels a decade ago. However, expenditures by hunters have increased 276 percent between 2001 and 2011, resulting in a significant hunting-related economic impact for the state. Additionally, in recent years nearly 20,000 annual licensed deer hunters have come from outside of Michigan, representing every state in the nation and more than 20 different countries.

 

The Pure Michigan campaign is partnering with the DNR on marketing efforts to grow the number of hunters in the state, while also promoting fishing across Michigan. Hunting and fishing had a combined $4.7 billion economic impact in 2011, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The partnership includes a Pure Michigan landing page on Michigan-based Carbon Media Group’s Outdoorhub.com. The landing page provides key information for sportsmen and women, hunting and fishing news and updates, original content created by hunters and anglers in the field and videos and articles with insights on types of hunting and fishing that can be done in Michigan. The site includes videos on a wide range of game – such as grouse, woodcock, whitetail deer and waterfowl – as well as both bow hunting and firearm techniques. Outdoorhub.com has the largest audience of sportsmen and women online.

 

The overall digital campaign also includes video content as well as online banner ads on AOL.com that went up in June and will run through the end of the month. The Outdoorhub.com and AOL content has combined for more than 50 million impressions in 2013. Much of the content on these sites is also available on the fishing and hunting pages at michigan.org, as well as on the DNR website. Pure Michigan has also added hunting and fishing-specific tabs to the Pure Michigan Facebook page. The new tabs provide resources, tips, and inside information on the best spots to hunt, what to bring on a hunting trip in Michigan and more.

With more than 575,000 fans of Pure Michigan on Facebook, the tabs also provide a place for hunters to join conversations about taking to the woods in search of that trophy buck. Pure Michigan has also partnered with the DNR on the Pure Michigan Hunt. Each year three hunters are drawn to win licenses for Elk, Bear, Turkey, Antlerless deer and first pick at managed waterfowl area, plus a $4,000 prize package. Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy. For more on the MEDC and its initiatives, visit: MichiganBusiness.org. For Michigan travel news, updates and information, visit michigan.org.

“Be Kind, Be Good”

Local Business, Local Faces, Local Food,

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Lessons Learned at Marge’s Donut Den

By Chelsae Speiser

From the moment you walk through the door at Marge’s Donut Den the love is felt. Smiling workers, happy customers and not to mention the delicious smell of fresh donuts makes you not want to leave.

 

Starting out at a young age Marge has always been one to help and care about other people. At 12 years she was volunteering to make bandages for soldiers and going to stores to help feed poor people. “You’re a bi-product of your parents, “said Marge “That’s all I’ve ever known.”

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Marge continues to carry the values she learned from her parents every day. “A community is taking care of your neighbors,” said    Marge. Monthly, she meets with west end business leaders to discuss ways to help the community. Along with that, Marge has a large  jar at the counter to help raise money for wells in Nigeria and hands out a book to customers called “Anthony’s Prayers” that reminds people to be thankful.“I can’t take credit for anything,” said Marge “I think it falls into your lap.” The Nigeria project is something that proves to be something extraordinary. “I’ve had numerous jars for years and no one puts money in it” said Marge “But the wells just keep going and going.”

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“God gives you things and expects you to turn it around and give it to someone else” said Marge “Because why would I ever put a well in Nigeria!”

 

The warm atmosphere that is in the Donut Den is there because of Marge and the lives she’s touched. “The customers that come into the shop are family,” said a worker.

 

“One person can set an example for others,” said Marge “but it takes a group of people to make things happen and it will all fall into place.” It all goes back to the saying above the door at the Den. “Be kind, be good”

 

That’s the way the people at Marge’s Donut Den live their lives everyday.

 

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Wyoming City Commission Funds Changes to Fire Services

Our Cities

 By Erin Nemastil, City of Wyoming Communication Specialist

Chief Carmody

 

WYOMING, Mich., November 19, 2013 – During yesterday’s city council meeting, Wyoming City Commissioners approved funding for a new fire fighter deployment plan that will continue efforts to expand and enhance fire services.

The plan, developed by Public Safety Director James Carmody, recommends changes to current staffing and deployment that will allow the City to add new firefighters and equipment, improve training opportunities and enhance community outreach. It is part of an ongoing initiative to re-engineer the way the City provides services, ensuring all departments are able to provide the highest caliber services for the tax dollars spent.

The City plans to pay for the additional expense through savings from the new scheduling model and with the newly restored Public Safety millage of .25 mils that was temporarily suspended last year. Commissioners had previously rolled back the millage after establishing an adequate fund balance for Public Safety.

The first phase in the multi-phase plan calls for:

• The addition of three full-time firefighters, which allows the Department to deploy more personnel and equipment to any one of the four fire stations at varying times of the day, based on need

• A shift to peak load staffing, which allows the City to have more firefighters and response units available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. when the department receives the highest number of medical and emergency calls

• Continuing to increase the Department’s paid-on-call firefighting staff, who support the fire stations on South Division Avenue and Burton Street

• Staging apparatus and building a paid-on-call firefighting response team for the Gezon Fire Station

• Purchasing two new quick response vehicles, or QRVs, a smaller and more nimble apparatus that has both fire suppression and patient care capabilities in one vehicle

• Reinstating the fire marshal position, which will increase the City’s ability to impact fire safety measures through inspections and enhance the City’s arson investigation capabilities

Carmody, the City’s longtime police chief who was tapped in July to lead the newly formed Public Safety Department, developed the recommendations with assistance from both the police and fire departments.

“We applaud Chief Carmody for developing a plan that fundamentally improves the quality of the fire and medical services we deliver to our community while managing costs,” said City Manager Curtis Holt. “He and his team provided a thoughtful, data-driven roadmap that addresses key concerns of firefighters – namely the need for better and more consistent training – while increasing community outreach and fire prevention education.

“The end result will be a better and more efficient organization designed to meet the emergency needs of Wyoming. Our new model will be one that other communities can emulate.”

Carmody and his team spent the past six months evaluating the number, location and type of emergency calls, response times, units required and other issues. After overlaying the data on a density map of City residents and businesses, the team found:

• The Fire Service responded to 5,407 calls for service last year

• Approximately 70 percent of all calls were medical in nature

• Of the medical calls, approximately 40 percent were classified as critical, such as heart attacks or strokes, while 60 percent were non-critical, such as falls

• During that same year, the Fire Service responded to 95 fire-related calls

• The 36th Street station location has been effective in providing service to the entire city

• Wyoming had approximately 100 calls requiring mutual aid from surrounding municipalities representing approximately two percent of all calls

“The Wyoming Firefighter’s Association is excited for the proposed changes within the Division of Fire Services,” said Eric Campbell, president of the association. “These changes will allow us to maximize efficiency and effectiveness as we work to provide the highest caliber of the fire and medical services to our residents.”

In order to build a team of available paid-on-call firefighters during normal business hours, the City implemented an innovative program of cross-training City employees, many of whom are currently working in other City departments, who can now respond to fire calls during the daytime.

“By transitioning to a peak staffing model, the City will ensure it has the right people and the right apparatus in the right places at the right times,” Carmody explained. “It will ensure that our firefighters have opportunity and access to training, which they – and professional organizations like ICMA – have identified as lacking right now. Not only will this training make our firefighters safer, it will also enhance our ISO rating and possibly reduce the amount residents have to pay for insurance.

“Finally, this new model will allow our firefighters to spend more time in the community creating relationships and providing much-needed prevention education to schools, businesses, residential communities and other organizations. Education and community outreach are the biggest factors in reducing fires.

“Last year, our police officers conducted more than 30,000 business checks and began visiting each public and private school in Wyoming. Our police officers now make every effort to visit every school every day of the school year, which has been met with appreciation from parents, students, school teachers and staff members. We anticipate our firefighters will be able to have the same positive impact by increasing their presence and visibility.”

Currently, most full-time firefighters work a 24-hour shift. Under the new model, a supplemental 12-hour shift for some firefighters will allow for more staffing during peak call periods.

For further information, visit the Wyoming City website at www.wyomingmi.gov. or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/CityofWyoming, and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/WyomingCityHall

 

Wyoming Welcomes Kendall Electric

Local Business, Our Cities, , , ,

Former GM Employee Parking Lot will See Changes

by Terri Yochum

Former GM employee parking lot sits waiting to be transformed.
Former GM employee parking lot sits waiting to be transformed.

After four years of vacancy, the former General Motors property on Clay Avenue in Wyoming claims its first new resident: J.O. Galloup and Smith Instruments, subsidiaries of Kendall Electric. The combined Kendall Electric businesses will occupy one state of the art facility on a seven acre parcel of the old GM plant, now referred to as Site 36.

Martin Ranly, Kendall Electric president and chief executive officer was quoted in the Southwest Advance as saying, “We are extremely excited to continue investing in the West Michigan business market by relocating our J.O. Galloup operations to Wyoming.” He continued to say that he hopes the many customers they have here will see this move as an investment in the future of all companies involved.

According to Ranly, the location fits perfectly with the needs of the business expansion because of its infrastructure and accessibility. In addition to housing 95 J.O. employees, the 100,000-square-foot facility will be eligible for a 12 year tax exemption and brownfield redevelopment dollars of up to $250,000.

J.O. Galloup is a premier distributor of pipe, valves, fittings and associated materials. Their mission, according to a company spokesperson, is to be the first choice as an employer, as a supplier, and as a partner to their vendors. Smith Instruments, also a subsidiary of Kendall Electric, is a leading representative of industrial and automation products. Spokespeople from both companies believe this venture will be a wise union.

Meanwhile Wyoming City Manager Curtis Holt says that the city is committed to growing companies locally through a system of ‘Economic Gardening.’ “This is a process by which big employers help smaller, existing businesses to grow. We want to see our local businesses do well.”

According to Holt, Economic Gardening helps promote the growth of existing local business in three ways:

First, by providing critical information needed by businesses to survive and thrive;  second, by developing and cultivating an infrastructure that goes beyond the basic physical infrastructure and includes quality of life, a culture that embraces growth and change, and access to intellectual resources, including qualified and talented employees; and third, by developing connections between businesses and the people and organizations that can help take them to the next level such as business associations, universities, roundtable groups, service providers and more.

“If your local business is growing, we can help you and want to work with you,” Holt said.

The City of Wyoming, together with development companies Lornax Stern and The Right Place, are working to redevelop and market the Site 36 property. “We are expecting to announce the inclusion of one more company very soon,” added Holt.

The vast majority of business owners in the surrounding area are excited about the Kendall project because the new addition will fill in some of the existing emptiness. “We’re pleased to see development picking up in the Wyoming area,” Roger Morgenstein, senior public information director for Consumers Energy said. “We are eagerly awaiting this first arrival.”

 

28 West

Our Cities

 

28West logo

The Wyoming Downtown Development Authority is proud to introduce 28 West, a long-term vision for 28th Street to become a sustainable, economically vibrant, walkable town center in Wyoming. The DDA in cooperation with the business community, property owners, city leaders and citizens have focused their efforts on cultivating a new, vibrant destination in Wyoming.   By providing insight and thoughtful direction on details like orientation of buildings, building facades, streets, green space, landscaping and parking, the DDA along with its partners have committed to making 28th Street a friendly, inclusive neighborhood.

For more information:  28 West

Fall Proofing Your Home

How-To's, Senior Living, , ,

Simple Changes for Home Safety    Bathtub grab bar. - Click to enlarge in new window.      Man spreading sand on a snowy sidewalk. - Click to enlarge in new window.

Six out of every 10 falls happen at home, where we spend much of our time and tend to move around without thinking about our safety. Many falls could be prevented by making simple changes in your living areas, as well as personal and lifestyle changes.

 

Take steps to “fall proof” your home, both inside and outdoors. To make your home safer, you can:

  • remove or avoid safety hazards
  • improve lighting
  • install handrails and grab bars
  • move items to make them easier to reach.

 Tips to “Fall Proof” Your Home

An important step toward preventing falls at home is to remove anything that could cause you to trip or slip while walking. Tripping on clutter, small furniture, pet bowls, electrical or phone cords, or other things can cause you to fall. Slipping on rugs or slick floors can also cause falls.

 

Arrange furniture to give you plenty of room to walk freely. Also remove items from stairs, hallways, and pathways.

 

Be sure that carpets are secured to the floor and stairs. Remove throw rugs, use non-slip rugs, or attach rugs to the floor with double-sided tape.

 

Put non-slip strips on floors and steps. Put non-slip strips or a rubber mat on the floor of your bathtub or shower, as well. You can buy these items at a home center or hardware store.

 

At home and elsewhere, try to avoid wet floors and clean up spills right away. Use only non-skid wax on waxed floors at home.

 

Be careful when walking outdoors, and avoid going out alone on ice or snow. A simple slip on a slick sidewalk, a curb, or icy stairs could result in a serious injury.

 

During the winter, ask someone to spread sand or salt on icy surfaces. Be sure to wear boots with good traction if you must go out when it snows. Better yet, don’t take chances walking on icy or slippery surfaces.

 

Poor lighting — inside and outdoors — can increase your risk of falls. Make sure you have enough lighting in each room, at entrances, and on outdoor walkways. Use light bulbs that have the highest wattage recommended for the fixture.  Good lighting on stairways is especially important. Light switches at both the top and bottom of stairs can help.

 

Place a lamp within easy reach of your bed. Put night lights in the bathroom, hallways, bedroom, and kitchen. Also keep a flashlight by your bed in case the power is out and you need to get up.

 

Have handrails installed on both sides of stairs and walkways. If you must carry something while walking up or down stairs, hold the item in one hand and use the handrail with the other. When you’re carrying something, be sure you can see where your feet are stepping.

 

Properly placed grab bars in your tub and shower, and next to the toilet, can help you avoid falls, too. Have grab bars installed, and use them every time you get in and out of the tub or shower. Be sure the grab bars are securely attached to the wall.

 

You might find it helpful to rearrange often-used items in your home to make them more accessible. Store food boxes, cans, dishes, clothing, and other everyday items within easy reach. This simple change could prevent a fall that might come from standing on a stool to get to an item.

 

If you have fallen, your doctor might suggest that an occupational therapist, physical therapist, or nurse visit your home.  For more information see Senior Safety Tips

Optimistic Mayor Poll Enters Second Term

Our Cities, , ,

janice_limbaugh“Be involved and be informed!” ~ Mayor Jack Poll

By Janice Limbaugh

 

These words of Mayor Re-elect Jack Poll have been and will continue to be, his signature message to Wyoming residents as he begins his second term in office. The unopposed mayor, who was sworn in on Tuesday evening, plans to continue to build on the progress made over the last several years.

 

The improvements included new streetscape lighting along 28th Street, newly installed water mains and water services, and the initial construction of Silverline stations along Division Avenue.

Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll sworn in for a second term.
Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll sworn in for a second term.

 

“I’m very optimistic,” Poll says. “Our city is continually improving thanks to our proactive leadership and citizen involvement.”

 

According to Mayor Poll, one of the city’s top initiatives is improving the newly formed Public Safety Department. The mayor believes that the city’s efforts for the merger are successful so far, and will continue to create a “hybrid” public safety program not typically seen around the country.

 

“We are going to be a public safety model for other city governments,” he states explaining that the proven financial sustainability is in decreasing administrative costs and crossing over responsibilities and duties of well-versed police and fire professionals.

 

Over the next five years, Mayor Poll expects to see progress on the re-development of 28th Street between Clyde Park and Burlingame known as 28 West, improvements and remodeling to Wyoming Village at Michael and 28th, and the revamping of the Downtown Development Authority.

 

As for concerns for the city, the mayor is quick to point out the aging of the current city council and the absence of younger council members. Six out of the seven current council members, have stated that this will be their last term.

 

“That will be a huge turn over,” says Poll. “We need to find and recruit younger people to get involved and interested in managing the future of this city. We’re making great progress and need to continue the momentum.”

 

For the first time, the city hosted a Citizen’s Public Safety Academy this fall as a means of engaging and encouraging residents to take a behind-the-scenes look at their police and fire services. Over 20 people participated in the program, prompting Mayor Poll to continue the academy again next year.

 

“We would do well as a community if every citizen could attend and learn everything about their city,” he says.

Stephen Kepley wins Mayoral Race in Kentwood

Local Faces, Our Cities,

colleen_piersonMeet the new Mayor of Kentwood

He’s been a City Engineer, Inspector, and Building Official. Now he’s the newly-elected Mayor of Kentwood.

 

Stephen Kepley is Kentwood’s newest mayor. WKTV’s Citizen Journalism program had the opportunity to sit down and get to know the newly elected official, who won the closely contested race over City Commissioner Sharon Brinks by 96 votes.

 

When asked about his effective campaign strategy of going door-to-door to meet the citizens of Kentwood, he replied:

Kepley-swearingin01

 

“I loved it. I looked forward to going door to door. It became like Christmas morning. Every time you knocked on the door you didn’t know what present was behind it. It was wonderful to realize the depth of character that we have in the city.”

 

Kepley had to take a five month leave of absence– with no salary– to campaign and realize his political aspirations. “It is a calling to run for an office. If I didn’t do this I would have missed my calling,” he exclaimed.

 

He shared that the extremely close 96 vote difference left him feeling honored and humbled.

 

Former Mayor Richard Clanton received high praise from Kepley.

 

“He had the courage to stand in the gap—to do what he did, I really appreciate his courage.”

 

The happily married father of three girls– ranging in ages from 4-16 — says his family was excited and relieved when they learned the good news.

 

And, what will his first project be:

 

“My first project is to listen to people and departments. I will do ride alongs with various departments to see what they see. I am a problem solver.”

 

Stephen has many visions, goals, and action steps to put into place. He is proud to be the Mayor of Kentwood.Interview with the Mayor

Kentwood Seeks Volunteers in Police Service

Our Cities, Senior Living

janice_limbaughSince 1993, Kentwood volunteers have been making a difference in their community by dedicating a few hours every week to supporting police services. An open house was held Wednesday, November 13th for interested residents to learn more about the program. Since 2007, Leslie Montgomery has been the coordinator for the Volunteers in Police Service and says the program has grown from a few to a group of over 40.

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Leslie Montgomery talks with interested citizen. Photo WKTV

“It sounds like a lot, but we are always in recruiting mode,” she says. “We never know when our numbers may go down due to life circumstances. Plus, we have a lot of real estate to cover.”

Opportunities exist in areas such as, clerical, community road and trail patrol, and chaplain. Seasoned volunteers and police officers, including Police Chief Hillen, were at the open house to answer questions. Montgomery says interested volunteers have to be interviewed, pass a background check and attend training.

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Volunteers answer questions at open house. Photo WKTV

“When you volunteer for the Kentwood Police Department, you know you’re making a difference in the community,” she says. “You also make friends, and interact with and learn more about law enforcement. “

By patrolling areas that police officers may not have sufficient time to cover, volunteers fill the gap in public safety. From checking handicapped parking stickers, to cruising walking trails for debris, these primarily senior volunteers take their job seriously but with a lot of room for fun and camaraderie.

“Oh yes, we have to add fun to it – it keeps us coming back” smiles Richard, who is a 32 year veteran of the Kent County Police Department and a 4 year VIPS. He and his partner patrol the area around Woodland Mall for parking enforcement. He says he enjoys doing what he has known for most of his career, but without all the stress.

“You know back on the force, there were some days I’d wonder if I’d ever make it back home. This is nothing like that!”

Montgomery stresses that although the open house has come and gone, they will always take volunteers. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer in police service, contact Leslie Montgomery at 616-656-6571 or email her at montgomery@ci.kentwood.mi.us.

The Hills Are Alive with the Sound of Music

Local Entertainment,

Beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein Family Musical Returns on Stage at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Sound of Music

By Nancy Brozek

The Sound of Music is returning to the Grand Rapids Civic Stage, November 15 – December 15.  The show features music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II and book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse. The beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein Family Musical was based off the memoirs of Maria Augusta Trapp’s “The Trapp Family Singers”.

 

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s final collaboration has become cherished by family audiences around the world. The musical’s fame inspired the creation of the most popular movie musical of all time, making the show in high demand.

 

“The message to take away from the show is that I hope people would value family, courage and sticking together,” said Penelope Notter, director of The Sound of Music, “This is a brave family, who would not tolerate evil and instead risked their lives to get away. It’s a pretty compelling story. And it is true.”

 

The Sound of Music follows the story of Maria Rainer, a spirited young woman who was dispatched from a convent to serve as a governess for seven children of the widowed Captain von Trapp. Gradually, the relationship between the stern Captain and Maria grows into a marriage. The couple returns from their honeymoon to find Austria invaded by the Nazis, who call upon the Captain’s service. The story concludes as the family narrowly escapes to Switzerland on the eve of World War II, creating one of the most thrilling and inspirational finales ever presented in theatre.

 

Ticket Prices $18 – $35

 

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.

Wyoming Nonprofit Protects Women Worldwide

Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities

Women At Risk, International

Works Miracles on 44th Street

Right now, between 114 and 200 million women are “demographically missing” due to infanticide, sexual slavery, dowry deaths, domestic violence and all manner of risk (UN Secretary General). The Economist calls it a hidden “gendercide,” with a victim scale reaching that of Hitler’s Holocaust every 2-4 years. WAR logo

This is why Women At Risk, International (WAR, Int’l) works in nearly 40 countries, creating circles of protection and hope around at-risk women and children. Headquartered in Wyoming, MI, WAR, Int’l exists to give voice to the silenced cries of the oppressed, wrap arms of love around them, and speak messages of purpose and dignity into their brokenness.

Through culturally sensitive, value-added intervention projects and programs, WAR, Int’l offers these women and children an opportunity to live life with dignity. Although specifically known for our fight against human trafficking and rehabilitating work with trafficking victims, WAR, Int’l addresses 14 different risk issues facing women and children today.

This holiday season our WAR Chest Boutique on 44th St. brings opportunities to get involved right to your own neighborhood. This is the perfect time of year to “shop for a purpose,” and our boutique carries beautiful products handmade by at-risk or rescued women in America and abroad. Know that your purchase for yourself or a loved one empowers a woman to live in safety and work with dignity.

Rhonda's crocheted flowers inspire awareness.
Rhonda’s crocheted flowers inspire awareness.

Stories, Healing and Ministries

Rhoda’s Roses

Stories of rescue are powerful, yet simply raiding brothels or removing women from risk is never enough. Like a trampled rose, rescued women require tender, loving care in order to heal and blossom. When WAR, Int’l first met Rhoda, she had experienced “rescue,” but no safe place or people to help her recover from her past trauma and abuse. As WAR, Int’l wrapped arms of love around her and created a safe haven of healing, Rhoda and her ministry began to thrive. Now, Rhoda sings of healing and wholeness and crochets these beautiful roses to support other women at risk. Each handmade rose tells her story—how beauty can be knit from brokenness, how hope exists for those rescued yet longing for restoration.

 Rhoda’s Story

Rhonda Kershaw turned her tragedy into a ministry.
Rhonda Kershaw turned her tragedy into a ministry. Photo courtesy of WAR

Ever since she was a little girl, Rhoda Kershaw wanted to sing. After much local success, Rhoda thought she caught her big break when a talent agent promised a vocal tour in Japan. Though her first visit proved successful, on her second trip, traffickers took her papers and forced her to serve drinks at a bar. One night a co-worker lured Rhoda to a “dance club” filled with the Japanese mafia. After drugging and abducting her, mafia members repeatedly brutalized and raped Rhoda for three days. She eventually escaped, but the Japanese police blamed her, and a counselor even advised suicide as the only way to preserve her dignity. Even after returning home to America, help was nowhere to be found. Finally, Rhoda discovered a community of healing and support at WAR, Int’l. Now she no longer numbs her pain with substance abuse and self-mutilation. Instead, she has transformed her suffering into a story of survival and hope. Rhoda uses her passionate voice to share this story, singing at benefit concerts, speaking out against human trafficking, and whispering words of hope and encouragement to vulnerable teens and wounded women.

Ladies Night Out

2790 44th Street, Wyoming, Mi, from 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. Event RSVP is appreciated but not required. RSVP via Facebook, Email or Phone with party size and email address. *The first 50 purchasers will enjoy a beautiful flower to take home courtesy of Posh Petals. Shopping Doesn’t Get Much Better Than This! kmcneil@warinternational.org/(616)530-1234

Changes at Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Local Business

Exterior airportGet ready to pack your bags. It is finally time to plan that dream vacation you have always wanted. Gerald R. Ford International Airport knows just the place you want to go and how to get there.

 

“West Michigan likes to go on the direct flight to Orlando, Florida,” said Tara Hernandez, marketing and communications manager for the airport. “Other popular direct flights are to Washington, Dallas, and Las Vegas.”

 

But the Gerald R. Ford Airport has more to offer than direct flights to entertaining cities. The airport is working on ways to make the travelers more comfortable. For example in both concourse A and concourse B there are charging stations in between the seats. This way travelers can charge their phones, tablets, and computers.

 

If for a reason a flight is delayed there is a food court available, where the airport just added a Bells Brewery restaurant. It has Bells beer on tap, and Bells food, just like the Kalamazoo pub. But for all the craft beer drinkers this is only the beginning.

 

“In concourse B we are going to be opening what we call a Great Lakes Tap Room. It will be catering West Michigan beers, Founders IPA, Bells, and New Holland,” said Hernandez. “It is actually a really cool design, there are terrazzo Italian floors, and natural back lighting.”

 

It is not just the adults who get to have fun, while waiting for their flight. The kids have their own station to0. Say goodbye, to the hard wooden animal shaped puzzles, and connect four. At Gerald R. Ford Airport, there is a kid’s port right in the Grand Hall area, this room contains Legos, a white board, magnets, and toys.

 

The Gerald R Ford international airport is the second biggest airport in Michigan, next to Detroit. There are 120 daily non-stop air flights. In the past year, over 2.134 million passengers came through the airport.

 

“We just have a bunch of really exciting stuff going on! We are growing every year and that is a good thing,” replied Hernandez enthusiastically.

 

If you want to learn more about discounted tickets, airport construction, best times to travel, delays, and traffic, check out the Gerald R. Ford International Airport’s facebook, and twitter page.

Airport

A Promise Made and A Promise Kept

Local Faces, Our Cities, ,

Richard Clanton deserves our Thanks!

Mayor Clanton
Photo WKTV

By Jamie Hawkins

KENTWOOD, MICH. — Richard Clanton made a promise. A promise to follow through predecessor Richard Root’s term in the hopes of making Kentwood a better place through his eyes, and the eyes of the late Richard Root. A promise made and a promise kept.

Mayor Clanton took office Tuesday June 5, 2012, just four days before Root‘s passing after a long and exhausting battle with cancer.

“I decided I would offer myself up so as not to run against the other commissioners in the next election,” said Clanton with a look of remembrance in his eyes. His notion to not run for the 2013 mayoral term played a significant role in Root’s and his commissioner’s choosing of who to finish the term.

He recalled on the day of the request during his visit at Root’s home in Kentwood. Root hoped for a commissioner to take his place, a friend who he and the commissioners believed would finish his term in his absence. Clanton graciously accepted, setting aside his aspirations to run for the next term.

“I gave him my word,” said Clanton. “I’ve lived up to it, the city is in decent shape, and I think I’ve done my job well.”

According to the city’s official website, Kentwood is rated the fastest growing city in Michigan and 5th best city in the state.

Clanton worked on several projects in his 18-month term, including signing off on the Silver Line bus transit, but none as memorable as those involving hands-on work with the city’s residents.

With a smile on his face and a look of nostalgia, Clanton told the story of rebuilding Pinewood Park which was burnt down in the early morning hours of Thanksgiving Day in 2012. Dozens of residents volunteered to help rebuild, showing the city’s charitable colors in a time of need.

Of all his contributions, however, Clanton reminisces on the naming of the Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch Public Library as one of his greatest projects.

“Getting the library named after Rick Root was a big thing,” said Clanton.

A promise made and a promise kept indeed.

Clanton spent nine years at Kentwood City Hall as mayor pro tempore before taking his term, assisting the mayor in any and all legislative and, sometimes, administrative duties for the commission. He spent four years as a member and CEO of the United Methodist Community House in Grand Rapids and will be returning to the organization with anxious excitement.

Will you miss it? “A little bit,” said Clanton, “but I’m excited to return to UMCH.”

An election will be held in November with candidates Stephen Kepley and Sharon Brinks running for office. This is the first time an incumbent will not be taking over as mayor.

Clanton is considering running for a position in the state house or city council in 2016, but his time in city hall will not be forgotten.

He just announced his intentions to lead United Community Methodist House (UMCH) as its Chief Executive Officer full-time immediately following November 11th. “The opportunity to serve was a special and bittersweet one,” Clanton concluded.

Pause to Remember and Honor

Local Faces, Our Cities, Senior Living, , , , ,
Dick - Korea
A marine, a father, a veteran – Dick in Korea.

Your Soldier

by Susan Lamos When you hear the word soldier does it bring a vision to your mind? Do you have someone you call, “my soldier?” It might be your grandfather Chet, whose wrinkled voice on rare occasion will offer the story of crawling on his belly with General McArthur’s Army during WWII. He might tell of the blaring momenthe realized those buddies who flanked his body there in the dirt were gone forever.

 

Your soldier might be Dick, your father perhaps, who left his unopened college books to battle on hill 812 in Korea. He moves tall through his life, telling many he meets, “Dog Company, 2nd battalion, 5th regiment…1st Marine Division sir,” as he rubs at the phantom pain in an empty shirt sleeve.

 

Perhaps your eyes see his brother Bob who 10 years post Korea was driven to continue his brother’s service.RVN-1970  This war is Viet Nam. As a Navy Corpsman he aided many wounded. Knowing after he came home that there were more bodies in the fields awaiting rescue, he returned for a valiant second tour…this time going closer from the pilot’s seat of an Army helicopter.

 

Is your soldier Steve, a 44 yr. old Marine, who served his country in the Middle East? His intelligence work took him through many heart wrenching years both in his conscious psyche and meditating soul. Steve walked out the front door of his California home one February night. All contact ceased.

13poster_highres

 

You might find your soldier in the face of someone at a Veterans Day parade. He could be the one standing next to you, who has quietly slipped away from his family to pay tribute with fellow comrades. Many who line the streets come alone with their story marinating in their hearts. A wiped tear from a lone serviceman, a tight but treasured uniform worn in the cavalcade or an American Legion hat carefully donned by an amputee in a chair, they are all there.

 

On November 11th our country remembers, honors and pays homage to our men and women in uniform. Search for your personal reason to support our troops and leaders today. Find it in those around you, knowing their sacrifices continue to give us our freedoms. Try and understand their passion and love of “Old Glory,” as she passes by. To some who have traveled further from the agonies in their mind than to where the original battle was fought…that beautiful flag stands more than their own life…it represents yours.

Kentwood’s Quiet Hero

Local Faces, Our Cities,

Police Chief Thomas Hillen celebrates first year!  Tom Hillen picture

By Maddi Smith

West Michigan, please give a round of applause to Thomas Hillen.  It isn’t every day that you meet someone as committed to their community as Kentwood’s Chief of Police.  This November our community marks the first anniversary of Hillen stepping into the role of police chief.  Only having held his position for a year, he has already made bounds toward the betterment of his city.

 

Grinning widely and speaking as earnestly and passionately as any public servant ever has, Hillen described to me his vision for the Kentwood area.  “I believe in the broken window theory.  Essentially, if there is one broken window in the neighborhood and you don’t fix it, then it becomes the norm.”

 

Under Hillen’s direction, the Kentwood Police Department has taken a proactive approach to code enforcement.  The community has rallied around the attention being paid to the aesthetics of their neighborhoods.  Hillen noted that when the public gets a chance to talk to a code enforcement officer, they often come prepared with questions and concerns.  His interest goes beyond just community aesthetics, though.  Hillen is personally invested in the health of Kentwood.  In regards to diligently monitoring Kentwood, he said, “I don’t want to see my community slip.”

 

The thing is, this really is his community.  Hillen and his four siblings grew up in Caledonia.  He attended and graduated from Caledonia Public Schools.  He, among multiple other colleges, attended Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University.  He has taken ownership of his stomping grounds, and dedicated his life to protecting and serving the people who live there.  But, although Hillen has devoted well many years to public service duties, including being the Deputy Sheriff of Kent, an accident reconstructionist, and being an emergency manager during a devastating windstorm in 2009.   He’s quick to pass any accolade off onto his staff and the support given to him by the police departments in surrounding areas.

 

West Michigan, here is your hero.  Many times fame and recognition are recognized as reliable measures of performance, but Police Chief Thomas Hillen has quietly been working for the public for over 30 years now, and his work has been nothing short of exceptional.  Mr. Hillen, on behalf of Kentwood and West Michigan, Thank you so much.   We look foward to seeing what the next year brings.

Breast Cancer Awareness

Non-Profits,

American Cancer Society Fights to End Breast Cancer

OnPink ribbon cancere in every two women newly diagnosed with breast cancer reaches out to the Society for help

by Evelyn Barella

Did you know that  an estimated 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to occur among women in the U.S. in 2013 – including 8,140 Michigan women or 28 women in the state every day?

 

The American Cancer Society offers help and support to those diagnosed with breast cancer and their loved ones 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  In fact, one out of every two women turns to the Society for help and support following their breast cancer diagnosis.

 

“The American Cancer Society encourages all women to put their health first. We want women to understand the benefits of eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, and the effect those healthy habits can have on lowering their cancer risk,” said Jenni Beamer, American Cancer Society senior manager, community events for Greater Michigan.

 

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women, second only to lung cancer.  The Society reminds women 40 and older to have a yearly mammogram and clinical breast exam. Women ages 20 to 39 should receive a clinical breast exam at least once every three years. The American Cancer Society offers a Michigan Mammography Facility Guide that compares services, price and other information to help women choose the mammography facility best suited for them. The Michigan Mammography Facility Guide is available for free online at cancer.org/michiganmammogram. Continue reading Breast Cancer Awareness →

BTS Tom Norton

It Takes a Team

Our Cities, WKTV Projects, ,

colleen_piersonBehind the Scenes at Metro Cruise with WKTV

What does it take to pull off a one-of-a-kind classic car event? A whole lot of volunteers, dedicated employees, proud car owners, a carefully designed set and gorgeous classic cars.

Continue reading It Takes a Team →

Quick and easy popover recipe

How-To's, Local Food, ,

 

 Rebecca’s Best Ever Popovers With Honey Butter   Popovers

 By Rebecca Good

 

Rebecca recently moved to Wyoming, Michigan from Florida.   She is a resident at Bayberry Farms Village Independent Living Center.

 

 

4 Tbsp. melted butter

Butter flavored pan spray

2 cups buttermilk

6 eggs at room temperature

2 cups flour

1 tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Prepare popover pan by spraying wells with non-stick butter spray.

Melt 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter and set aside.

In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups buttermilk, 1 Tbsp. melted unsalted butter, 6 eggs.

Add 2 cups of flour and 1 tsp. salt.

Put 1/2 tsp. melted butter in each popover well.

Fill each well to 2/3 full with popover mixture.

Place popover pan on the center rack of the oven.

Place a large cookie sheet on the rack below to catch any overflow.

Bake 20 minutes at 450 degrees.

After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees.

Bake another 15 minutes.

DO NOT OPEN OVEN DURING THE 35 MINUTES OR THE POPOVERS WILL FALL!

It will be a temptation, but please do not open that door!

Remove them from the oven immediately.

Then, carefully remove them from the pan using a knife or fork — be careful they are very hot! – place on a cooling rack or plate to serve hot.

This is a single batch which makes 12 gorgeous popovers.

This recipe can be doubled or tripled.

 Honey Butter

 By Rebecca Good

1 stick softened butter

3Tbsp. honey (any kind)

Simply blend the two together then serve in a pretty bowl with your warm popovers.

 

Don’t miss the Whole U Grand Rapids Holistic Health Expo at St. Cecilia Music Center

Community Health

Body wellness Body Wellness #2

Integrate Body, Mind, Spirit and Community

 

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.  – Just in time to kick-off a healthier 2014, the inaugural Whole U GR Holistic Health Expo will take place Saturday, January 25 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the St.Cecilia Music Center.

 

The Expo will integrate the body, mind, spirit and community of Grand Rapids by featuring local health businesses, retailers and exhibitors. Organizers expect more than a thousand attendees will enjoy the seminars, hands-on cooking classes and demonstrations led by local health practitioners. Martha Cudlipp, co-founder of Whole U GR, was inspired to organize the event with fellow health practitioners, Christine Sharp (IE3 Bodywellness) and Naturopath Sarah Mokma (Rooted Well), afterexperiencing GR Unveiled at St. Cecilia Music Center this past year.

 

“I loved how intimate GR Unveiled was with a spotlight on localbusinesses,” Cudlipp says. “St. Cecilia offers the perfect, intimate setting for this kind of event and we have many superior health andnutrition businesses in Grand Rapids to showcase.” Local businesses that will be featured include Simple Truth Chiropractic, Get Waisted, WOTV 4’s Margaux Drake, Everbest Organics Owner Jim Sattelberg, and Doorganics.

 

“It doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to live healthfully,” Cudlipp adds. “We are hoping to expose attendees to various aspects of healthy living including organic food, eating local, fitness, supporting a healthy planet, disease prevention and more. Even small changes in these areas can have a large impact on one’s overall health.”

 

Tickets are $8.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door. For more information, visit www.WholeUGR.com.