All posts by Joanne

Grand Rapids Public Museum to host free day March 15

Citizen Journalism,
Finny, the finback whale skeleton, greats visitors as the enter the Grand Rapids Public Museum. (Supplied)

Editor’s Note: This event has been postpone.

By Christie Bender
Grand Rapids Public Museum

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today that in partnership with Kent County Farm Bureau, they will be offering a Museum Free Day for the third year in a row. On March 15, 2020, the GRPM will open their doors free of charge for visitors to explore the Museum’s three floors of core exhibits. 

“We’re thrilled to offer a Free Day at the Museum to the community for yet another year,” said Kate Kocienski, VP of Marketing and PR for the GRPM. “We truly appreciate our partnership with the Kent County Farm Bureau because it continues to give the gift of curiosity for visitors of all to explore science, history and culture at the Museum without the barrier of an admission fee.”

The Free Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, March 15. Kent County Farm Bureau will have additional agriculture themed hands-on activities available as part of the day. Visitors can participate in an apple taste test and vote on their favorite apple variety, as well as learn how to milk a cow by interacting with “Casey the Cow” a life-size cow figure. Educational handouts of My Food Plate will be distributed as well as free apples, and other snacks on a first come, first serve basis. For additional information or to reserve your free ticket, please visit grpm.org, click the purchase tickets link and select March 15 for date of visit to receive free admission.

“Kent County Farm Bureau looks forward to once again partnering with the Grand Rapids Public Museum to welcome friends into the Museum free of charge,” said Bill Seif, Kent County Farm Bureau President. “On behalf of more than 1,200 Kent County farmers, we are delighted to work with the GRPM to continue inviting the community to learn more about our agriculture and food production through this experience.” 

The GRPM is a place of never-ending inspiration and discovery, featuring three floors of hands-on fun and educational exhibits for visitors of all ages to explore. Visitor favorites include the Streets of Old Grand Rapids, an immersive exhibit that transports visitors back to 19th century of downtown Grand Rapids, and West Michigan Habitats, an exhibit that showcases the vast wildlife found in West Michigan.

Take a trip down memory lane in the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s “TOYS!” exhibit.

Special exhibits TOYS! and Design Zone will be included free of charge for visitors to enjoy on the Museum’s Free Day. TOYS! is an interactive, multi-generational exhibition of toys and games that rekindle childhood memories and spark the creation of new ones. In Design Zone, visitors explore a variety of concepts to learn the processes and tools needed to create a successful design by engaging with interactive games and activities.

 

Additional experiences for visitors include the special traveling exhibit Bodies Revealed and planetarium shows that are available for an additional charge.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at 272 Pearl St. SW. For more information, visit grpm.org.

Wyoming Wolves pull away from East Kentwood to advance to district championship game

City of Wyoming, Sports,
The Wyoming Wolves are headed to the district championships Friday at Middleville Thornapple-Kelloggs. (Photo by Mike Moll)

Mike Moll, WKTV Sports Director
sports@wktv.org

The high powered offense of the Wyoming Wolves boys basketball team took a half to get into the gear they are accustomed to, and when they did, they were able to expand a four point halftime lead into a 19 point victory over the East Kentwood Falcons, 77-58 at Middleville Thornapple-Kellogg Wednesday night.

East Kentwood concludes their season with a 12-10 record, while Wyoming ups its record to 20-2 and will face 10-11 Ottawa Hills Friday night in the championship game, after Ottawa Hills upset East Grand Rapids 61-50 in the nightcap game.

East Kentwood’s Ja’moni Jones started the scoring with an early three pointer, but Wyoming proceeded to score 16 of the next 18 points before the Falcons scored 9 of the last 11 to close the first quarter out with Wyoming holding an 18-14 lead. EK was led by Jones and Jordan Jackson with 6 each, while the Wolves were paced by one of the areas highest scorers during the regular season, Menalito McGee, with 10 which included a pair of 3-pointers.

The Falcons scored the first four points of the second quarter to knot the game at 18, but Thom VanderKlay’s Wolves would go on an 8-0 run to take a lead they would never relinquish the remainder of the game. Jy’Air Harris tried to keep his team as close as possible by scoring 6 points in the second quarter to lead Jeff Anama’s team, but the combination of Marion and Monte Parks with 6 points each in the quarter, was enough to keep the lead at four at the break, 34-30.

The third quarter was more to the speed and liking of the Wolves, as they outscored East Kentwood 21-15 to expand the lead to double digits for the first time, 55-45 after Marion Parks hit a left handed 30-footer as the horn sounded to close the quarter. McGee and Diego Ledesma each had seven in the quarter and Jackson had five for the Falcons.

The final quarter continued the late game dominance for Wyoming as they outscored East Kentwood 22-13 in the final stanza, including a 10-0 run in the middle, before late game substitutions were brought in for both teams.  In the case of the Falcons, it was a final thank you from its fans as the seniors closed out their high school basketball careers, but ironically enough, it may have been the final time for Wyoming seniors to play in front of a crowd as well, depending upon what the Michigan High School Athletic Association deems necessary to help fight against the coronavirus.  Many of the upcoming weekend’s state finals will be played in front of no spectators.

 

EK was led on the night by Jones with 13, Jackson 11, and Eric Cohill with 8, while the Wolves were led by McGee with 25, Ledesma 19, Monte Parks 14, and Marion Parks with 13.

East Kentwood was 5-for-14 from three-point territory and 13-for-23 from the free throw line while Wyoming was 4-for-10 from outside the arc and were 11-for-15 from the line. The difference could be seen in the turnovers as EK had 14 which were turned into 18 points for Wyoming, while the Wolves committed just 8 on the night.

10 tips for a safer home

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An emergency health kit is a must-have component in bolstering home safety. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Len Canter, HealthDay


Here are 10 suggestions from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

  1. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every month. Yes, this is an addition to changing the batteries once a year.
  2. Wash your child’s toys just as you do your hands. (Think of how much time they spend on the floor.)
  3. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen to avoid bacteria growth.
  4. Put together a mini health kit and tuck it into your daily tote. Include adhesive bandages, alcohol wipes, pain relief medication, hand sanitizer, a mini tube of sun protection and an instant ice pack.
  5. Make that wellness appointment you’ve been putting off. Ask if you need a tetanus booster. It’s a must every 10 years.
  6. Put the poison control number—800.222.1222—on all phones and make sure all family members know when to call it.
  7. Before leaving the house do a double check for safety. That means putting on sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for a walk and other activities, or a helmet and other gear for bike riding, or looking at the treads of your shoes before a run.
  8. Schedule a radon test for the air in your home. Have your water checked if you get it from a private well.
  9. Change your contact lenses on the right schedule. Don’t risk eye health by trying to extend their life past the prescribed usage, whether they’re dailies, monthlies or anything in between.
  10. Can’t do a full floss after lunch? Use dental picks to get rid of food caught between your teeth and prevent bacteria buildup.

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.




Grammy winner, and local favorite, Marc Cohn returns to St. Cecilia’s folk series on March 19

Reviews, Upcoming Events,
Marc Cohn. (Supplied)

Editor’s Note: This concert has been rescheduled for Sept. 11.

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org


 
The last time Grammy award winning singer/songwriter Marc Cohn took to St. Cecilia Music Center stage, in early 2017, he “received a resounding standing ovation after totally captivating the audience with his powerful voice and emotional lyrics,” according to one in the audience.

On March 19, Cohn will return with new music and, of course, his classics including the timeless “Walking in Memphis”, and tickets remain available.


“Since he was last here in Spring 2017, Marc has spent time on the road with legendary Michael McDonald, worked closely with David Crosby and other American music greats including soul survivor William Bell, who won his first Grammy at age 78 with Marc’s help in creating Bell’s celebrated album, “This is Where I Live”, Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia Music Center Executive Director, said in supplied material. “With his latest work with the gospel legends Blind Boys of Alabama, we can’t wait to hear his new concert repertoire.”


In August 2019, Cohn released a soul/gospel/pop album “Work to Do”, along with Grammy Award winners Blind Boys of Alabama. The album’s collection “combined Cohn’s unique vocal and songwriting talents with the sanctified genius of these veteran gospel stars,” according to supplied material.


Cohn originally rose to musical fame when he won the Grammy for his soulful ballad “Walking in Memphis,” and since that time he has solidified his place as one of this generation’s “most compelling singer-songwriters, combining the precision of a brilliant tunesmith with the passion of a great soul man.”

No less of a singer/songwriter than Bonnie Raitt reportedly said, “Marc is one of the most soulful, talented artists I know. I love his songs, he’s an incredible singer, and I marvel at his ability to mesmerize every audience he plays for.”

For more about Marc Cohn visit his website marccohnmusic.com.

The final St. Cecilia Music Center Acoustic Cafe Folk Series for the 2019-20 season is Shawn Colvin, who also returns returns for her second appearance at St. Cecilia Music Center, on May 19, when she will be performing her newly released album Steady On Acoustic in its entirety. Her original 1989 album Steady On became her first Grammy Award winning album and brought her significant acclaim and a large devoted fan base.

 
 
Marc Cohn concert tickets are $40 and $45 and can be purchased by calling St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224 or visiting the box office at 24 Ransom Ave. NE. Tickets can also be purchased online at scmc-online.org.

 

A post-concert “Meet-the-artist” reception with a cash bar will be offered to all ticket-holders giving the audience the opportunity to possibly meet Marc Cohn and obtain signed CDs of his many releases.

After breakthrough season, Kelloggsville girls basketball coach, team look forward to future

Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Local Faces, Sports,
The 2019-20 Kelloggsville High School girls basketball team. (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

In just his second season leading the Kelloggsville High School girls basketball program, Rockets head coach Bilal Muhammad appreciates his 2019-20 team’s 16-4 regular season record and the impressive milestone of the program’s first OK Conference title in more than four decades.

But with his team losing only two seniors — even though one, Trayana Starr-Thurman, was their best player — and a new buzz around the school about his program, Muhammad can’t wait to start working towards the future.

This season’s accomplishments “bode well for our program, just getting that experience, and being there before is going to help tremendously,” coach Muhammad said to WKTV. But “I’m excited to see what this off-season is going to bring … I’m looking forward to what the future brings.”

Kelloggsville tied for first in the OK Silver Conference with Calvin Christian, with a 10-2 record, giving the Rockets a share of their first league title since 1976, when the school competed in the OK White. The team’s season came to an end in a district semifinal game against Wayland.

The Rockets went 12-9, 6-6 in conference, last year, in Muhammad’s first season in charge.

The keys to their successful season, Muhammad said, was not only having two seniors leaders, but also a bunch of underclassmen who stepped up and provided points, toughness and work ethic.

Trayana Starr-Thurman, and her 1,000 point ball. (Supplied)

Starr-Thurman’s contributions were clear: she led the team with an average of 15 points per game and scored her 1,000th point this season. The team’s other senior, Zenaiya Gonzales, will be missed for other reasons.

“Trayana is a student of the game … she’s not afraid to ask questions, and she voices her opinion on certain plays … (she was) able to communicate, and offer that leadership,” Muhammad said. Gonzales “brought leadership as well, and toughness” to the team.

Gonzale “has been hurt all season, literally all season, and she’s been tough enough to tune it out all year. She brought that toughness and leadership in practice — (the team knows) that if she’s here, if she can do it, it makes everybody else’s moral come up and work hard as well.”

The returning players who their coach has so much confidence in includes two juniors — Nariah Collier and Jaden Wade — and super sophomore Brea’Ana Smalley.

Collier and Wade “are going to be important on and off the floor” next season, he said. “Some of the summer stuff we are going to be doing. Getting the girls to come out. …This is their first year actually working together. I’m looking forward to what the future brings.”

Collier, a center, averaged eight points, eight rebounds and four blocks a game this season. Wade, a forward, also gave the Rockets a strong inside force.

And Smalley, who fought through injuries to be the team’s second leading scorer, with 13 points per game, is only going to get better, her coach said.

“She did a great job. She was injured a few games as well this year. We had a lot of injuries this year. But those big, important games, when we needed her, she stepped up,” Muhammad said. “I’m looking forward to her for next year, She’ll work on her game over the summer and be even more dynamic next year.”

Coach also pointed out that junior Jazmine McCaleb will be a returning captain while freshman Malia Fields is a “hard worker, very hard worker,” and sophomore Yarlene Valdez “came to our team the second half of the season, but she is committed and ready to work over the summer.”


And after not having JV and freshman programs this season, having varsity returners who will “help with the new players”, along with work by he and has staff, Bo Garyson and Tiesha Stokes, Muhammad sees a good future for the Kelloggville program as a whole.

“I’m optimistic the number (of players in the program) will increase,” he said, pointing out that he’s been working with the middle school program as well. “I am hopeful and optimistic that we will be able to fill that void that we did not have this year.”

Downtown St. Joseph comes alive with March mannequins

Entertainment

On Friday, March 13, visitors can stroll downtown St. Joseph and enjoy March Mannequins, sponsored by The Boulevard Inn & Bistro, Edgewater Bank, and the Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council. Dozens of community volunteers will pose perfectly still in participating store windows from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This year’s theme features Night at the Museum. Over 20 windows will depict scenes from any of the three Night at the Museum movies or the participants favorite museum exhibits.

Amy Zapal, executive director at St. Joseph Today, says, “St. Joseph is a destination for year-round fun. In addition to many summer and fall events, winter and spring are also jam packed with fun for all ages. During your visit, explore our beautiful downtown! Grab a bite to eat at one of the mouthwatering restaurants, shop for one-of-a-kind merchandise featured in downtown shops, go wine and beer tasting at the local wineries, breweries and distilleries, or visit one of our stunning beaches or walking trails—there is something for everyone, at every time of the year.”

St. Joseph Today, a membership-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to developing and promoting events and businesses in St. Joseph, Mich. and its surrounding communities. For more information about upcoming events, visit stjoetoday.com or facebook.com/stjoetoday.

New GR reading program focused on getting all kids to read

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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

There is a scene in “Kung Fu Panda 3” were Po for the first time sees a person who looks exactly like him. His reaction is of utter amazement and delight.

In a photo that went viral through social media, a boy in a wheelchair has a face of pure joy as he looks at a life-size ad of another boy in wheelchair.

Recently the Men of Color Read program expanded to Grand Rapids’ Martin Luther King Leadership Academy. (Supplied)

“We know how important it is to see people who look like you and that’s why diversity is so important in the classroom,” said Jon Covington.

It was one of the reasons that Covington decided to create Men of Color Read, to bring a person of color, who is a success in the community, into the classroom to read to students, especially those in urban areas. The hope is that by seeing people similar to themselves it will inspire the students to not only read, but achieve in school and beyond.

Covington started Men of Color Read 10 years ago in Los Angeles, where he was working at the time. The simple idea of having African-American men come into a school and read once a month quickly blossomed in Los Angeles with the program now hosting once-a-week mentoring programs. Five years ago, Covington brought the program back to his hometown of Muskegon and again saw tremendous success. This past January, he launched the Grand Rapids program at Martin Luther King Leadership Academy which quickly lead to a partnership with the Kent District Library.

“It is up to us to make reading cool again,” said Covington during a recent WKTV Journal interview.

And Covington understands just how “cool” reading can be. From kindergarten through 11th grade, he attended 10 different schools.

“Reading helped me get through all the hype of the things going on around me,” Covington said. “It helped me to dream and to know that there was a whole great big world out there.”

Reading programs like Men of Color Read become even more important to combat functional literacy, a person who is able to get buy knowing just basic English. He also sees the potential of young black boys being impacted by the Michigan law that states if a student is one grade level behind in reading they can be held back.

Martin Luther King Leadership Academy students listen to a story ready by the mentors from the Men of Color Read program. (Supplied)

The response to the Grand Rapids program has been amazing, according to Covington, who said people — of all colors and genders — have been signing up to read to the students.

And it has made an impression on the students as well.

“I came into the office at Martin Luther King Academy and there was a little girl there, I think she was just hanging out or something,” Covington said. “She said to me ‘How many of you were there?’

“I said ‘There was a lot of us wasn’t there? Do you mind if we come back next month?’ She just smiled.”

To get involved with the Men of Color Read program, visit the organization’s Facebook page, Men of Color Read, visit the KDL website, or call Martin Luther King Academy at 616-819-2600.

Lazy Genius wraps up Museum’s 2020 Concerts Under the Stars series

Entertainment,

By Christie Bender
Grand Rapids Public Museum

Prepare for a fully immersive experience as the Concerts Under the Stars series at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) concludes with a dynamic rock and roll concert, performed by Lazy Genius on Thursday, March 19. Sit back and experience the wonders of the cosmos alongside mesmerizing music. 

Lazy Genius has been a staple band in the West Michigan music scene for over 10 years. The group’s rock and roll music embodies a catchy, but unique sound with epic an structure and broad range of dynamics. The band’s lineup consists of five talented musicians including Patrick Wieland, vocals and guitar; Dan Wier, drums and vocals; Adam Cavanaugh, bass guitar; Kristi Prindle, vocals and percussion and John Harrell, keyboards and synth. The group has released three full-length albums, including their latest release, the atmospheric New Moon (2018) and an EP. Lazy Genius is currently working on their next full-length album. 

Lazy Genius’s performance will be accompanied by a live light show on the Chaffee Planetarium dome by visual artist Eliza Fernand. Eliza is an artist and educator who works in fabric, video, role play, clay, sound-making and home repairs. After studying sculpture, video and performance, Eliza has led a cross-country career attending over a dozen artist residencies. Eliza works as a teaching artist at Cook Arts Center and West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology, and is currently earning an MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts at Sierra Nevada University.

Concerts Under the Stars begins at 7:30 p.m., with Museum doors opening at 6:30 p.m. At each concert, performers will play two sets with a short intermission in between. Refreshments, beer and other beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are $17, with reduced pricing of $12 for GRPM members. Tickets are available at grpm.org/planetarium, by calling 616.929.1700 or at the Museum’s front desk.

Refugee Education Center expands to Ottawa County

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The Refugee Education Center announced today that it will expand services to Ottawa County. The Grand Rapids-based nonprofit will partner with the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District to offer their High School Transitions service to refugee students enrolled in the district’s high schools.

Through the service, Refugee Education Center service providers work to meet the needs and address the challenges specific to students of a refugee background and support each student’s transition to their future education or vocational endeavors. Service providers meet individually with students to assess needs and progress, create a post-high school plan, then develop a graduation plan with the primary goal of obtaining a traditional high school diploma. Assessments and ongoing support for students are often on-site at area high schools and are tailored for students aged 14-20. Participation from student’s parents or guardians is welcomed and encouraged.

Refugee Education Center has been operating this program in Kent County and has now expanded it to Ottawa.

“This program has been designed to support young members of the community better acclimate to their new surroundings and ultimately become full participating members of the West Michigan community,” said Matt Clark, advancement director at the Refugee Education Center. “We believe working with students in this manner will help them successfully transition into continuing education and ultimately, into the West Michigan job force.”

The Refugee Education Center has partnered with the Kent and Ottawa Area Intermediate School District to provide area teachers and school administrators with ongoing professional development opportunities that include best practices for addressing the unique needs of students of refugee background. The OAISD partnership paved the way for Refugee Education Center to expand the High School Transitions program to Ottawa County.

“As our schools continue to warmly welcome immigrant and refugee students with diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, we are thankful for strong community partners that can provide services to assist us in building upon the unique assets and meeting the individualized needs of these students,” said Pam Schwallier, Ed.S., regional English learner consultant for Ottawa Area ISD, Muskegon Area ISD, and Allegan Area ESA. “The Refugee Education Center has provided invaluable support for many throughout Kent ISD, and we are looking forward to the expanded services available throughout Ottawa Area ISD as our refugee students and families make Ottawa county their home.”

The expanded programming is made possible through a three-year grant from the Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area. Additional funding has also been provided through a one-year grant from the Perrigo Company Charitable Foundation.

“We are thankful that the Community’s Endowment allows us to support the Refugee Education Center’s expansion to Ottawa County,” said CFHZ president/CEO, Mike Goorhouse. “We look forward to seeing the unique ways this program will help young refugee students in our community thrive now and into the future.” 

Clark pointed to the importance of this private-sector funding.

“We are honored to be entrusted by our funders including the Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area, to expand our operations into Ottawa County,” he said. “Since 2016, West Michigan has become home to a growing number of refugee students and families as other parts of the state have seen declining resettlement, and we have continually seen this community answer the call for support.”

School administrators, EL providers, school counselors, and/or parents and guardians who want to learn more about connecting their students to this service, may contact the Refugee Education Center at info@refugeegr.org or call 616-247-9611. 

Want to keep sharp? Stay social

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Staying engaged socially and creatively at age 50 and beyond could help you ward off mental decline. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Steven Reinberg, HealthDay


The evidence continues to mount that staying socially engaged as you age helps keep dementia at bay.


In a new study, British researchers found that being socially active in your 50s and 60s may reduce the risk of developing dementia.


The findings showed that people in their 60s who interacted with friends nearly every day had a 12% lower risk of developing dementia than people who saw a couple of friends every few months.


“This has important implications for people in middle-age as it suggests that keeping socially active is important for brain health. We know that it has other health benefits in terms of benefiting physical and mental health,” said lead researcher Andrew Sommerlad, a research fellow in the division of psychiatry at University College London.


Social activity during midlife was linked with better memory and reasoning skills, he said.


“We think this may be because social contact gives us a chance to exercise different aspects of thinking, like memory and language, which may make people more resilient against the damage which accumulates in the brain in people who develop dementia,” Sommerlad explained.


For the study, Sommerlad and his colleagues collected data on more than 10,200 people who took part in the Whitehall II study between 1985 and 2013. During that time, the participants were asked about their contact with friends and relatives.


In 1997, the study participants also took tests of their thinking abilities. The group was followed until 2017.


The researchers also found an association between being socially active and dementia risk for those who were 50 and 70, but it wasn’t statistically significant.


Sommerlad said that other studies have shown similar results, but this study followed people for a much longer time.


“This gives us much more confidence in the idea that more social contact may reduce dementia risk, although a study like this can never definitively prove it,” he said, since it can only show an association.


In any case, Sommerlad encouraged people to stay connected.


Dr. Sam Gandy is director of the Mount Sinai Center for Cognitive Health and NFL Neurological Care in New York City. He said, “I tend to believe these findings are correct.”


Many studies have shown that being mentally and physically active affects keeping the mind sharp, he noted.


“Physical activity, mental stimulation and social engagement are popping up in these studies left and right all around the world,” Gandy said.


Some patients in these studies may have the beginnings of mild cognitive impairment, which is an early stage of dementia, he said. But he is confident that this possibility is well known and researchers can take it into account.


The bottom line for Gandy is that keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol low and maintaining a healthy weight along with eating a healthy diet—and staying mentally and socially active—is the best recipe for delaying or preventing dementia.


Some studies have suggested that even people with dementia can benefit from a healthy lifestyle, he added.


Gandy thinks that for those with early signs of dementia, these interventions might have some value.


“But not for those with mid- to late-stage dementia or those who are bed-bound,” he said.


The report was published online recently in PLOS Medicine.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



GRAM appoints new president, vice present to its board of trustees

Entertainment,

By Elizabeth Payne
Grand Rapids Art Museum

The Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) is pleased to announce the recent election of two new officers to its board of trustees. The board officer appointments include Kurt Hassberger as president and Erin Gravelyn as vice president. In addition, two officers were re-elected—Lizbeth O’Shaughnessy as secretary/treasurer and Lauretta Murphy as president of the foundation board of trustees. The president serves a 2-year term, while the vice president, secretary/treasurer, and foundation board president serve 1-year terms. 

Kurt Hassberger was recently named the president of the GRAM Board of Trustees. (Supplied)

About the Appointees  

Kurt Hassberger, GRAM Board of Trustees President

Kurt Hassberger is chief counsel at Rockford Construction Group. Hassberger joined Rockford Construction in 1995 as general counsel and became chief operating officer in 1997. He was appointed president of Rockford’s Development Group in 2011. Hassberger is currently serving as chief counsel and chairman of the board. A member of the Grand Rapids and State Bar Associations, he successfully manages the complex legal, financial, and operational needs of developments, LLCs, and real estate holdings.

In his time at Rockford Construction, Hassberger has been instrumental in many key development projects, including Cherry Street Landing—a fully developed neighborhood containing education, retail, office, and residential components—which was created with a focus on the renovation of the area’s existing vacant buildings. Recently, he was instrumental in a similar revitalization of the West Side of Grand Rapids, bringing a diverse mix of academic, mixed-use, retail, residential, and office space to the neighborhood. 

Erin Gravely has been named vice president. (Supplied)

Erin Gravelyn, GRAM Board of Trustees Vice President

Erin Gravelyn serves as director of global field marketing at Herman Miller Inc., where she leads strategic, tactical, and creative teams. Her previous experience includes leadership positions at SAP Global Human Resources and SAP Global Marketing, as well as 18 years as a trial attorney for Dickinson Wright PLLC. Gravelyn has received numerous honors and awards, including being listed in Best Lawyers in America for commercial and business litigation from 2011-2019.

She also serves as philanthropic advisor to the Herman Miller Cares Foundation, focusing on programs and initiatives to inspire future designers, and has previously served as a board and committee member in various local community organizations, including the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission, and the Grand Rapids Symphony. Gravelyn is a published author and a proficient presenter. She holds a Juris Doctor degree from University of Notre Dame Law School and a Bachelor of Arts with honors from the University of Michigan.

 

Lizbeth O’Shaughnessy has been named secretary/treasurer for the GRAM Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Trustees. (Supplied)

Lizbeth O’Shaughnessy, GRAM Board of Trustees and Foundation Board of Trustees Secretary/Treasurer

 

Lizbeth O’Shaughnessy is senior vice president, chief administrative officer, general counsel, and secretary for Steelcase Inc., the global leader in the office furniture industry. O’Shaughnessy took on the additional duties of chief administrative officer in July 2014, expanding her role as vice president, chief legal officer, and secretary (2007-14). In addition to her leadership of legal services, she is now responsible for several other groups, including global talent management; sustainability; social innovation; global trade compliance and environmental performance; and corporate governance as the secretary of the board of directors.

Previously, O’Shaughnessy was vice president, chief legal officer, and secretary (2007-11) with global leadership responsibility for all legal services and consultation advice necessary to support the company’s global business and to provide research, review, and active involvement in legal matters for various groups within the company. O’Shaughnessy joined Steelcase Inc. in 1992 as corporate counsel and has held several leadership roles in legal services since then. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from Indiana University at Bloomington in 1987. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Michigan State University in 1984, and she is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and the American Bar Association.

Lauretta K. Murphy has been named president of the GRAM Foundation Board of Trustees. (Supplied)

Lauretta K. Murphy, GRAM Foundation Board of Trustees President 

Laurie Murphy is a Member of Miller Johnson, chair of the estate planning practice, the private client practice, the probate practice, the guardianship practice, the wills and trust disputes practice, is a former vice chair of the business section, and has been practicing law since 1988. She specializes in probate and estate planning, taxation of estates, trusts and gifts, as well as elder law and special needs planning. 

Murphy is a fellow in the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC). Additionally, she is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and was the secretary and treasurer for the Elder Law & Advocacy section. She belongs to the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Women Lawyers Association of Michigan, American Bar Association, and Grand Rapids Bar Association. Murphy earned her Juris Doctor degree from University of Notre Dame Law School in 1988 and a Bachelor of Arts from Aquinas College in 1984.

  

2019-20 GRAM BOARD OF TRUSTEES 

Museum Board of Trustees  

·         Kurt Hassberger, President  

·         Erin Gravelyn, Vice President  

·         Lizbeth O’Shaughnessy, Secretary/Treasurer  

·         Luis E. Avila 

·         Stacie Behler 

·         Marilyn Crawford  

·         Sam Cummings  

·         Jim Engelking 

·         Meg Goebel 

·         Christopher Hufnagel 

·         Rishi Makkar 

·         India Manns 

·         Jane Boyles Meilner 

·         Jim Overbeck 

·         Kathleen Stewart Ponitz 

·         Christopher Rosmarin  

·         Carol Sarosik  

·         Eddie T.L. Tadlock  

·         Mitchell Watt  

·         Meg Miller Willit  

 

Foundation Board of Trustees  

·         Lauretta K. Murphy, President  

·         Lizbeth O’Shaughnessy, Secretary/Treasurer  

·         Tamara R. Bailey 

·         Thomas A. Demeester 

·         Greg Hooks 

·         Janet Nisbett 

·         Douglas Padnos  

·         Jeff Smith 

·         Douglas Williams 



Honorary Life Trustees  

·         Anita Carter  

·         Pamella DeVos  

·         Marilyn Q. Drake  

·         David G. Frey  

·         Mary Ann Keeler  

·         Mary Loupee  

·         Mary Nelson 

·         Kate Pew Wolters 

Sitting down with bass-baritone Michael Colman

Entertainment
Bass-baritone Michael Colman performs in “Scalia/Ginsburg” March 14 and 15. (Supplied)

By Opera Grand Rapids

Bass-baritone Michael Colman will portray the Commentator in the Opera Grand Rapids’ upcoming production of Scalia/Ginsburg set for March 14 and 15 at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center, 1320 E. Fulton Ave. The one-hour opera is based on the friendship between former Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia and current Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Before the production, Colman sat down with Opera Grand Rapids for a little question and answer about him and the upcoming show.

 Where are you originally from? Cedarville, Ohio

Who has inspired you/been your greatest influence professionally? Why? Samuel Ramey—that hair, that voice, what’s not to love? Also, I grew up listening to my dad play the piano and have loved music ever since. 

Who/what brought you into the world of Opera? I played Curt in The Sound of Music when I was a kid and knew that being on stage and singing would always be a few of my favorite things. As my voice changed, I started to listen to classical singers and tried singing some opera arias. Emphasis on the “try”… it’s come a long way. My poor parents will never get back those hours of me practicing high notes in the living room.

Where do you live now? Bloomington, Indiana

         

What are your hobbies when not performing? Reading (fantasy fiction, sci-fi, non-fiction), strategy games (board games and video games! anything that makes me think), cooking (any tips for a successful soufflé are much appreciated… I’m 0 for 2 on that recipe).

What is your favorite Role/Opera/Piece? I loved singing Leporello in Don Giovanni and all things Tchaikovsky. I simply cannot contain myself when the orchestra comes back in at the end of his Violin Concerto in D. I hope to sing in Eugene Onegin someday.

What are your favorite things about being a professional musician? The people! Getting to work with amazing artists all over the world creating for audiences. Feeling that energy is unlike anything else.

Least favorite? Hmmm… self-employment taxes, finding health insurance, and trying to gracefully answer when people ask “But what is your real job?” immediately after a show.

What is something you are looking forward to in Grand Rapids? This is my debut with Opera Grand Rapids and I cannot wait! My sister and her family live in town, so this is extra special for me to be performing here!

Where is your favorite place to travel/perform? Why? I love anywhere close to family! There is a lot of traveling as a performer, frequently over holidays, so when I can work close by, that is the best. 

What performances/plans do you have in the next year?: I am reprising the role of The Commentator in performances of Scalia/Ginsburg with Opera Carolina and Toledo Opera; Angelotti in Tosca, Father in Thumbprint, and Ulysses S. Grant in Mother of Us All with Chautauqua Opera; and King of Egypt in Aida with Toledo Opera.

Tickets for the show are $50 general admission, $5 student with ID. To purchase tickets, visit operagr.org.

SpartanNash introduces Kids Crew to help kids make healthy choices

3-bottom, City of Kentwood,

By Lauren DeVol
SpartanNash

 Spring is a beautiful time of year in the Mackinaw City area, as the winter melts away and nature comes out of its deep slumber. Mackinaw City businesses and hotels are celebrating the start of spring with vacation specials and events during the 4th Annual Mackinac Meltdown, including:

April 1-16 — Spring Break Splash at Pirate Cove Waterpark

Things are heating up inside…with $5 fun, April 1-16 at the Pirate’s Adventure waterpark inside the Crown Choice Inn & Suites Lakeview (720 S. Huron Avenue). Mackinaw’s largest indoor waterpark features a pirate head tipping bucket, three waterslides, bubbler jets, crawl tunnels, water guns, climbing nets, an oversized indoor pool and a whirlpool sauna. Call 231-436-5929 for details.

Saturday, April 6 (11am-2pm) — Taste of Mackinaw

Enjoy delicious foods from local restaurants as well as craft beer and wine at the Mackinac Island Brewhouse & Mackinaw Island Winery inside the Mackinac Bay Trading Company downtown on Huron Avenue, across from Conkling Heritage Park. Tickets are $10 per person.

Saturday, April 6 (1-4pm) – Mackinac International Bridal Expo

Love is in the air and the Straits of Mackinac is an ideal (and popular) place for couples to celebrate their big day. Exhibitors will be set up inside Mackinaw Beach & Bay (929 S. Huron Avenue) throughout the afternoon showcasing dresses, cakes, accessories, wedding venues, music and more. Admission is $5 per person.

Plenty of seasonal activities are planned to celebrate the arrival of spring and all its beauty—from the flora to fauna to astronomy to aviary throughout March, April and May!

Discover Birds of Prey at Raptor Fest!

Birding is currently the second fastest growing hobby in the United States after gardening, according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service who also reports that over 2 million Michigan residents are birdwatchers. Every year thousands of hawks, eagles, vultures, and owls follow the contours of Lakes Michigan and Huron, ending up at the Straits of Mackinac where they must cross a 5-mile expanse of water. To save energy, the birds use rising air drafts to lift them high in the air, and then they glide across the Straits. While no longer protected under the Federal Endangered Species Act, the bald eagle remains protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch conducts scientific studies and takes inventory of hawks, owls and other raptors migrating through this region of northern Michigan, educating the public about the birds and their migration. Their largest annual event is Raptor Fest, April 3-5. This three-day event provides great views of migrating raptors, interesting sessions and educational workshops.

Savoring Michigan’s sweet treat…maple syrup!

Did you know that maple sugaring is Michigan’s oldest agricultural activity…dating back to the earliest Native Americans? Or, that Michigan ranks #5 in the nation for production of maple syrup…generating more than $2.5 million for the state’s economy?

The longer, warmer days means sap begins to flow in the maple trees that dot the landscape around the miles of woodland trails. In the furthest reaches of Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park visitors can find the Maple Sugar Shack, nestled along one of the hiking trails. While the sugaring season will have wrapped up by the time the interpretive season begins at here in May, guests can still find the shack and interpretive panels detailing the history of sugaring in this area and the process of doing it.

Beauty from the ground…wildflowers abound!

One of the surest signs that spring has arrived in the north woods is the appearance of an abundance of beautiful wildflowers covering the forest floor. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, there are at least 18 wildflowers native to Michigan including Arrowhead, Beach pea, Black-eyed Susan, Dwarf Lake Iris (Michigan’s official state flower, a threatened species only found in the Great Lakes region), Harebell, Purple coneflower and others. Other spring beauties include the Yellow Trout-lily, Spring-beauty, the Large-flowered Trillium and the smaller Nodding Trillium, Marsh Marigold or Cowslip and Jack-in -the-Pulpit.

Head out along the hiking trails at Wilderness State Park, The Headlands International Dark Sky Park, at Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, and along sections of the North Country Trail. Please remember that trillium are protected in Michigan and that picking them is illegal (but photographing them is recommended).

Foraging from the forest floor…morels, ramps and fiddleheads!

In addition to an abundance of wildflowers, spring means the arrival of wild edibles – such as morels, ramps, and fiddleheads – the most hunted spring treasures. May is morel month in Michigan but depending on the weather these illusive fungi can be found as early as April and as late as mid-June, especially the further north you go. Morels begin to pop up along the woodland floor when the daytime temps reach around 60–65 degrees while the evening temps stay above 50 degrees. As you search, look along southwest facing hills where the sun’s rays warm the ground around tree groves mixed with living, dead and dying ash, elm, oak and aspen trees. Given there are a lot of “false morels” and other poisonous mushrooms, it is advised to take a guide (either a person or a printed book) to help you identify a true morel. If you can’t find them in the woods, look for them on the menu of area restaurants during the spring season – topping fish, chicken, or steak, fried to a crispy goodness, or cooked into a creamy bisque.

Cast a hook, line and sinker!

Fishing really is a four-season activity here in the Great Lakes State, but as the ice melts and the temperatures rise, the rivers, streams, and lakes become a hotbed for a variety of species. The Straits area offers opportunities for migratory steelhead and salmon, as well as other freshwater fish. Spring fishing begins in April when the smelt begin to run, followed by trout season in late April and walleye season which opens mid-May. As we move into summer, look for lake perch and bass off the coast of Wilderness State Park or head to Paradise Lake, just five miles south of Mackinaw City, where bass, pike, walleye and panfish are plentiful. Be sure to check the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for specific season dates and licensing information.

Hunting Michigan’s beloved Petoskey Stone!

Many people think that Petoskey Stones can only be found in Petoskey. Yet this hexagon fossilized coral (Hexagonaria pericarnata) from a coral reef that existed during the Devonian era 350 million years ago, can be found along the Lake Michigan shoreline from the Sleeping Bear Dunes area as far north as the Straits of Mackinac. Spring is the ideal time to scour the beaches for rocks that have been churned up over the winter, before the thousands of tourists have had the time begin their search. Established as Michigan’s state stone in 1965, the Petoskey Stones were formed as a result of glaciation, in which sheets of ice plucked stones from the bedrock, grinding off their rough edges and depositing them in the northwestern portion of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.

Please note, Michigan State prohibits individuals from removing more than 25 pounds of rocks or minerals per year from state parks, recreation lands and Great Lakes bottomlands.

Look to the skies…and beyond!

Although there is no way to predict when Northern Lights (aurora borealis) will light up the sky, the Straits area provides the perfect night sky conditions for viewing this unique phenomenon. Northern Lights are collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the earth’s atmosphere, creating dancing color of lights such as green, pink and purple. Located along the Lake Michigan shoreline just south of Mackinaw City, the Headlands International Dark Sky Park is a popular place for settling in for the sky show.

Dig into Local History!

The Mackinaw Area Historical Society Heritage Village invites you to learn a little about the area during their lecture series, with programs taking place at the Mackinaw Area Public Library (528 W. Central Avenue). Upcoming presentations include Native American Teaching and Learning the Traditional Way (April 13) with Adel Easterday and Gardening the Colonial Michilimackinac Way (May 11) with Lee Ann Ewer. Of particular note is that the Mackinac State Historic Parks is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2020…with parks opening for visitors in early May.

For spring travel ideas and lodging options, visit MackinawCity.com.

A Tale of Two Cities: The Truth behind Grand Rapids Brewing in Muskegon

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, ,

Jackie Huss
Lakeshore Museum Center

It sounds bizarre to many that a company named Grand Rapids Brewing Co. bottled its product in Muskegon. Hear the story behind it, a bubbly narrative, as uncovered by a man who traced the corporate history of those that once brewed our beer. The one-night Lakeshore Museum Center event “The Curious History of Grand Rapids Brewing in Muskegon” hosts West Michigan author Pat Evans and his research on the surprising history of Muskegon beer. The event coincides well with the museum’s latest exhibit “Cheers! A History of Brewing in Muskegon”.

“Our exhibit content manager, Aaron Mace, came across this book in research. The author now lives in Las Vegas, so it’s a rare opportunity to talk to him while he’s back in town,” said Lakeshore Museum Center Program Manager Jackie Huss. “It’s a little known fact that Grand Rapids Brewing Co. operated out of Muskegon, so it’s a great opportunity to learn more about Muskegon’s unique brewing history.”

Evans, author of Grand Rapids Beer: An Intoxicating History of River City Brewing was a reporter for The Grand Rapids Business Journal for five years. He also regularly contributed to Grand Rapids Magazine as a food and sports writer. His work as a corporate historian allows him to combine his passion for both history and hops to explain just how Grand Rapids Brewing Co. ended up in Muskegon.

Cheers! A history of brewing in Muskegon is currently running at the Lakeshore Museum Center through Aug. 8.



“Not a lot of history books cover beer. I think beer is often forgotten,” Evans said when the book was released in 2015. “I think people will be surprised that there’s that much of a beer history… to know that Grand Rapids Brewing Co. back then was bigger than Founders is now.”

This one-night event on Wednesday, March 18, at 5:30 p.m. is free to all Muskegon County Residents and $5 for non-residents via Eventbrite. Copies of Evan’s book will be available for purchase and signing. To learn more about this event, contact Jackie Huss at jackie@lakeshoremuseum.org​ ​or call 231-724-5526.

KDL Staff Picks: These are a bit of a mystery

3-bottom,

Adult

Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore

by Matthew Sullivan 

A terrific mystery set in a bookshop: Lydia’s favorite patron commits suicide, leaving her with a clever puzzle to solve. You’ll love this new heroine and the head scratching plot!

– Margo at Caledonia



The Dairy of a Bookseller

by Shaun Bythell 

Ever wonder what it’s like to own a bookshop? Well Shaun does, and his bookshop diaries of daily interactions with his own staff and his patrons range from thought provoking to hysterical. A great read!

– Clyde at Spencer





Children’s

Notorious

by Gordon Korman

My third grader and I recommend Notorious by Gordon Korman. The setting is interesting, a small town with the Canadian/Michigan border running through it, and the mystery is fast-paced. Four paws up!

– Elizabeth at Plainfield




Edison: The Mystery of the Missing Mouse Treasure

by Torben Kuhlmann

This is a gorgeously illustrated and timeless children’s tale worthy of becoming a modern classic. One of three books Kuhlmann has written and illustrated where he reimagines famous inventions from the perspectives of inquisitive and endearing mice, it’s a great pick for the whole family!”

– Melissa English at Krause Memorial Library

Kent County Health Department offers video on traveling, coronavirus safety

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Hard News, Health, Our Cities, Senior Living, Travel, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, ,
Dr. Adam London, Administrative Health Officer for Kent County, right, and Brian Hartl, county epidemiologist. (Supplied/Kent County)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

There is a lot of information flying around the internet and the airwaves — if not in your household — about the COVID-19 virus (coronavirus), so the Kent County Health Department, led by Dr. Adam London, Administrative Health Officer for the county, continues to offer videos with up-to-date information.

In today’s video — travel. London and Brian Hartl, county epidemiologist, discuss what you need to know and how COVID-19 may impact your travel plans. To view the latest video, visit here.

For complete information from the Kent County Health Department on the local news dealing with the COVID 19 virus, and to view all the videos visit here.

According to the health department, public information will be distributed “as the situation warrants it.”

According to the county, here are some basic facts:

COVID-19 is caused by a new respiratory virus. In December 2019, the virus began circulating in humans. Health experts are concerned because little is known about this new virus and it has the potential to cause severe illness and pneumonia.

State level information is updated daily at Michigan.gov/coronavirus. Also available are the total number of people who may have been exposed to the virus who are referred to local public health for monitoring or assessment.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus, and they include: fever, cough and shortness of breath Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death.

Health experts are still learning about how this new coronavirus spreads. Other coronaviruses spread from an infected person to others through the air by coughing and sneezing; close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands; touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.

The same steps you would take to prevent spread of flu and the common cold twill also help prevent coronavirus disease, including: wash your hands with soap and water, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing, avoid contact with people who are sick, and stay home if you are sick and contact your healthcare provider.



Coronavirus information updates are also available from the state and federal governments at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

East Kentwood boys win in double overtime at Caledonia to advance in basketball Districts

Area Education, City of Kentwood, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Journal Sports Connection
The 2019-20 East Kentwood High School boys basketball team. (Supplied/East Kentwood)

By Mike Moll, WKTV Sports Director
sports@wktv.org

The boys basketball District opener for Division 1 played at Caledonia High School showcased the true meaning of March Madness. OK Red foes East Kentwood and Caledonia split their regular season meetings with a win apiece and Monday was just as even. So much so that it not only went into overtime, but double overtime before the Falcons would advance to Wednesday with a 68-67 victory.


Caledonia finishes the season at 9-12 while East Kentwood, now 12-9, will face one of the area’s top teams, the 19-2 Wyoming Wolves at Middleville T-K, after Wyoming defeated the host Trojans Monday, 93-49.


EK would score the first basket of the game, but the Scots then went on a 9-0 run, and finish with a 14-9 lead after the first quarter buzzer. The Falcons leading scorer on the season, Ja’moni Jones would lead all scorers with 5, followed by Caledonia’s Luke Thelen with 4, along with Koby VanderWoude and Carter Thomas with 3.


While the Fighting Scots would hit an early 3-pointer by Thelen to take a 17-11 lead, the Falcons would quickly come back with the next six, led by the combination of Jones and Jordan Jackson to tie the game at 17, which was the second of twelve ties on the night. Caledonia would outscore East Kentwood 8-6 the remainder of the quarter to hold a slim 25-23 lead. Jones would lead the way with 11 and Jackson had 8, six of which were in the second quarter, while Caledonia was being paced by Thelen with 9.


The intensity would continue after halftime, as East Kentwood would take their second lead of the night 32-30 following back to back offensive rebounds by Urim Sahitolli and his made basket at the 3:35 mark. However, the Scots would score the final five points of the stanza, with the last being another triple by Thomas to head into the fourth with a 35-32 lead. Jones was still the leading scorer with 13 and Caledonia’s Thomas had 10 followed by Thelen with 9.


Caledonia would open the fourth with a basket by VanderWoude, who would have twelve in the quarter by himself, but the parade to the charity stripe would begin for East Kentwood as they would hit four in a row to cut the deficit to just one, until Jackson would connect at the 6:10 mark to mark the fourth of six total lead changes on the night, 38-37 East Kentwood. That was the start of the Falcons trying to take control of the game as they would increase their lead to 47-40, but simply couldn’t shake Caledonia, who would keep fighting being led by VanderWoude and Andrew Larson. After a foul by Caledonia with just 10.7 seconds remaining, Jones went to the line for two shots that could have given EK a three-point lead, but he went 1-for-2 to make it 53-51. Caledonia had a shot blocked but was able to get the offensive rebound by Thelen who scored with 1.7 seconds remaining. On the ensuing in-bounds pass, Jones tossed a shot from half court that was no good to send the game into the first overtime.


The OT was controlled by EK early as Ja Shon Large, who had 5 points in regulation, scored the first four, but that lead was cut to one after a 3-pointer by Larson. After another Large score, the next three were scored by Caledonia’s Aaron Henry and VanderWoude, but he too missed one of two free throws. EK’s Kalil Strange would make it 61-59, but with 41.1 seconds left, Caledonia’s Thelen would knot it again at 61 where it would stay, and a second overtime was needed.


As so often is the case, free throw shooting is the difference in back and forth games and this was no exception in the second OT as EK would make 3-of-4, all by Strange, whereas the Scots would be 2-of-4 on their last two trips down the floor, but that was good enough to take a 67-66 lead with 21.5 seconds left. After a series of timeouts, EK’s Large would make a driving basket with just .9 seconds remaining, after which Caledonia could only get a shot off as the buzzer sounded trying to force a foul but to no avail.


Caledonia was led by VanderWoude with 21, Thelen 13, and both Thomas and Larson with 11, but the Scots were 7-of-15 from the charity stripe. The Falcons were led by Jones with 23, Large and Jackson 13 each, and Strange 9, but the victory went to them by hitting 15-of-21 from the strip on the night as a team.

Kentwood Women’s Club to host discussion with ‘Rosie the Riveter’

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Education, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events
Angie Morthland-Timan as “Rosie the Riveter”. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org


This month’s meeting of the Kentwood Women’s Club, set for Wednesday, March 18, will host an evening with Angie Morthland-Timan as “Rosie the Riveter” as part of Women’s History Month. The meetings, open to the general public, are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m., at the Kentwood Public Library, 4950 Breton SE in Kentwood.

Morhtland-Timan is a native of Grand Rapids, now lives in Mackinaw City part of the year, and attended Central Michigan University. She has taught physical education and home economics in five different states and two countries. She “has a real passion for the World War II stories and the Rosie The Riveter women who kept the factories going during the war,” according to supplied material. She is currently the Indiana State representative for the American Rosie the Riveter group.

“Morthland-Timan will give us great insight into this important time in history,” according to the Kentwood Women’s Club announcement. “She will provide a framework showing the enormous part women made during the war effort and their contributions to our economy during that time in history.”

The KWC event will begin with a 6:45 p.m. social time with the group meeting starting at 7:15 p.m. and the discussion to follow shortly.


 
The purpose of KWC is to enhance the cultural, civic, educational, and social opportunities of Kentwood area women. KWC encompasses women in Kentwood and the surrounding area.


 
For more information visit kentwoodwomensclub.org.

Weekend binge? Brace for week-long woes

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Food, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , ,
A devil-may-care diet on the weekends can wreak long-lasting havoc on your gut microbiome. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Len Canter, HealthDay


Do you eat healthy during the week, then ease off the brakes on the weekend? You’re not alone.


But such a five days on-two days off eating regimen can erode diet quality, according to a study published recently in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.


Not only did participants take in more calories on weekends than on weekdays, they were less healthy calories, to boot.


They consumed more alcohol and fat, and ate less of the good stuff, like yogurt, fruits, dark green and orange vegetables, chicken, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.


And if the calories you consume on the weekend exceed the number you take in during the week, that’s a net surplus—read: weight gain.


Besides stalling any weight-loss efforts, weekend junk-food binges can also negatively impact the healthy bacteria in your gut.


A lab study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research found that cycling on and off junk food was almost as detrimental to the delicate balance of the gut microbiome as eating it all the time.


In particular, a junk-food diet reduces the microbes needed to metabolize flavonoids, a category of micronutrients thought to help with weight loss and brain health.


If you look forward to letting loose on the weekends, find other ways to unwind.


For instance, try a new activity—you’ll burn more calories and boost your weight-loss (or control) efforts.


If going out for a big brunch is your downfall, schedule a trip to the gym instead.


Weekends are also perfect for doing some healthy cooking. Make enough to have for brown-bag lunches so weekday eating is more satisfying.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.




Photo of the Week: Thanks to our volunteers!

WKTV Projects

This week’s photo of the week celebrates our amazing volunteers. WKTV Volunteer Dan xStevensxx made this cake especially for our recently Volunteer Appreciation Event which was at the WKTV station. Photos provided by WKTV Volunteer Mike Boorsma.

There are lots of volunteer opportunities at WKTV. If you are interested in learning more, call 616-261-5700.

Do you have a photo you would like considered for the photo of the week? Then email it to WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma at joanne@wktv.org.

Use it or lose it

3-bottom, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living,
Waistline and cardiorespiratory fitness are but two areas where health suffers when a sedentary lifestyle takes hold. The good news: The body responds just as quickly to positive lifestyle changes. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Serena Gordon, HealthDay


A new study proves that the old adage “use it or lose it” is definitely true when it comes to fitness.

After just two weeks of sedentary behavior, formerly fit people had:

  • A decline in heart and lung health
  • Increased waist circumference
  • Greater body fat and liver fat
  • Higher levels of insulin resistance

“The study showed that two weeks of reduced physical activity—from approximately 10,000 steps per day down to 1,500 per day—caused changes in health markers that are associated with Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” said study author Kelly Bowden Davies. She’s a lecturer at Newcastle University and the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom.

But the good news from the study is that the body seems to quickly bounce back once you start moving again.


“It’s important to note that when people resumed their normal activity levels after this period, the negative health changes were reversed,” she said.


The researchers recruited 28 healthy, regularly active adults. Eighteen were women. The average age of the study volunteers was 32.


Their average body mass index—a rough measure of body fat based on height and weight measurements—was just over 24. A BMI under 24.9 is considered normal weight.


The study volunteers had been quite active, normally clocking about 10,000 steps daily.


Bowden Davies said most of this was just from daily activity, rather than structured exercise. She said they usually participate in no more than two hours of structured exercise weekly.


The researchers asked the volunteers to cut their activity drastically. They dropped an average of just over 100 minutes a day, the researchers said.


After two weeks of couch potato life, the study volunteers underwent a battery of testing. These results were compared to findings measured when the study started.


Bowden Davies said cardiorespiratory fitness levels dropped by 4% in just two weeks.


Waist circumference rose by nearly one-third of an inch. Liver fat increased by 0.2%. Total body fat went up by 0.5%. Insulin resistance increased and triglyceride (a type of blood fat) levels went up slightly.


Fourteen days after resuming activity, these measures all bounced back, the investigators found.


“Even subtle increases in activity can have a positive effect on health. Moving more and breaking up sedentary activity is encouraged,” Bowden Davies added.


Dr. John Osborne, an American Heart Association spokesman, said this was a very interesting and somewhat surprising study.


The findings validate advice he gives his patients.


“If you can be a shark or a turtle, be a shark—always moving. This study showed you can lose the benefits of exercise very quickly, but the good news is that when they became sharks again, all the benefits came right back.”


Another expert who reviewed the study, Dr. Edmund Giegerich, chief of endocrinology and vice chairman of medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital in New York City, was also somewhat surprised by the magnitude of changes that happened in just two weeks.


Giegerich said the study confirms how important it is to stay active.


“Going from being sedentary to more active can help a great deal in preventing the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Just try to be more active. You’ll feel better, and if you’re trying to lose weight, it can help a little. You don’t have to run a marathon. Walking is fine. Just get up and get moving,” he advised.


Both experts pointed out that the study was small—and in a larger group, the findings might be different.

The study was also only done for a short period of time.


Bowden Davies, Osborne and Giegerich all suspect that if people who are at a lower fitness level stop almost all of their activity that the results might even be worse.


The study was presented recently at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes meeting, in Barcelona. Findings presented at meetings are typically viewed as preliminary until they’re published in a peer-reviewed journal.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Medical Moment: Novel Coronavirus

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By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

It is hard to escape the news about the novel coronavirus has it has been front and center for many organizations.

In our newest feature, Medical Moments, host Dr. Afriyie Randle, discusses the coronavirus. Such as did you know the first human coronavirus was discovered in the mid-1960s and today there are seven different types of the coronavirus that can infect humans.

Randle offers several safety tips to help avoid contact with the virus:

Wash hands with soap or water for 20 seconds or, if water is not available, use hand sanitizer

Avoid touching nose, eyes or mouth with unwashed hands

Cover nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and cough in elbow

Clean and disinfect frequently touched areas

For more prevention information about the novel coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control website, cdc.gov.

Adventures of Michigan: Muskegon Home, Garden + DIY Show

Entertainment, Local Entertainment, ,

By West Michigan Tourist Association

The Muskegon Home, Garden + DIY Show is back for 2020 at the Fricano Place Event Center, 1050 W Western Ave, on Friday, March 13 from 11 a.m. – 7:00 pm and Saturday, March 14 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Muskegon Home, Garden + DIY show will feature over 50 exhibitors including everything from windows, siding, gutters, and painting to home décor, furniture, landscaping, and much more!

New this year is a Kid’s Zone on Saturday. Bring the kids to enjoy games, balloon animals, and much more! “We are excited to add the Kid’s Zone on Saturday this year. This addition only enforces the great family feel of the show,” commented Kristin Knop, Show Director.

Back by popular demand, the Do-It-Yourself and Demonstration seminars will highlight floral design, cooking, gardening and more!

Seminars by local businesses are one of the most popular features of the show. This year’s seminars include floral arranging by Skeeter Parkhouse of Wasserman’s, Whole – Home Wi-Fi Coverage, and cooking demonstrations featuring Chef Char and Sofia Occhialini from Kitchen 242. Event highlights include; Home Pro of West Michigan a full service contractor, garage door solutions by Shepherd Shoreline, building ideas from Keene Lumber, décor space by Blended Furniture and lending options by Family Financial Credit Union. Also included this year are beer & wine tasting as well as a Bloody Mary Bar.

In addition to exhibitors and seminars, the home show will have free flowers (while supplies last), thousands of dollars in prizes, and discounted Fricano’s Pizza with the purchase of $5 home show admission ticket. Kids 12 and under are free!. Tickets are available online at muskegonhgs.org. Advance tickets are recommended, but tickets will be sold at the door.

The Muskegon Home, Garden + DIY Show is a production of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce with support from the Lakeshore Home Builders Association, Fricano Place, Home Pro of West Michigan, Shepherd Shoreline Gutters & Garage Doors, Keene Lumber Company, and Family Financial Credit Union. Other home show supporters are listed online at muskegonHGS.org.

WKTV sports coverage team begins extensive Golden Gloves coverage March 14

Local Entertainment, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports, WKTV Projects,
WKTV sports crew airs the annual Golden Gloves tournament each year. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

It’s Golden Gloves Boxing time!

WKTV has been covering the Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament for more than 25 years. Again this year, we will be at the Grand Rapids DeltaPlex Saturday, March 14, for the West Michigan Preliminaries, with replays of the bouts on our cable channels the next day as well as on select days and times, and they will also be available on-demand at WKTVlive.org.

We will continue coverage through the State Finals in April.

The Deltaplex Arena is located at 2500 Turner Ave NW, Grand Rapids.

The tentative coverage days/times and replay plan includes: West Michigan Preliminaries, Saturday, March 14; West Michigan Semi-Finals, Saturday, March 21; West Michigan Finals, Saturday, March 28; the State Semi-Finals, Friday, April 17; and the State Finals, Saturday, April 18.

WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse 99 will show with tape-delayed airings of each evening’s bouts on the following day. For future broadcast schedule, check out our On-air Schedule.

How to plan the move to assisted living

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living
Courtesy of Vista Springs Assisted Living

By Vista Springs Assisted Living


Though the decision to move to assisted living may be bittersweet or difficult, making the process of moving easy and fun can help a new resident settle in more quickly and begin the enriching lifestyle that assisted living communities provide. Here is a rough timeline of how to plan the move to assisted living in the coming year. Let’s get started!

6+ Months ahead: 

Six months or more ahead of the move may seem like a long ways away, but it’s never too soon to start decluttering. Start sorting out keepsakes, allowing plenty of time and opportunities to talk about the memories associated with them. Friends and family may feel similarly attached to objects such as childhood artwork or trophies, so it’s great to get everyone involved in this first stage. Giving things full of memories to family is a great way to keep them around while decluttering. If you can, limit sorting to only about one to two hours per day, and keep things light and companionable.


In terms of logistics, gather up important or sensitive documents, and if necessary, go over them with trusted accountants, doctors, and other professionals to determine what needs to be kept.


It’s also time to begin searching for a real estate agent, if necessary. Gather a few options and go with the best fit for you.


Also, start planning creative meals with pantry and frozen food items. Who knows what you’ll come up with?

3 Months ahead: 

Contact your assisted living community and obtain a floor plan for you or your loved one’s future apartment. Start planning what goes where, and don’t be afraid of downsizing. Make lists! Are you giving furniture to friends and family, and if so, who gets what? What are essential medications and toiletries that need to get to the apartment? Start decluttering in earnest, and research moving companies if finances allow.

2 Months ahead: 

Visit the assisted living community and start getting familiar with their facilities. Making a new home is daunting, but the more comfortable you are with the space before you move, the better. Plan a garage sale and start donating any furniture, decorations, clothing, or other items. It’s also important to make plans for any pets – can they come with you, or do they need another home?

1 Month ahead: 

Buy packing materials, such as boxes, tape, and labels, and start packing non-essential items slowly. Be sure to label everything clearly to make unpacking simple. Start donating frozen and canned foods to local food pantries.


This is also a great point to notify the post office, utilities, banks, credit cards, and others about you or your loved one’s change of address. Make a list of everywhere your address needs to be changed and check it off as you go.

2 Weeks ahead: 

Get family and friends together for packing and cleaning. Leave no stone unturned! Coordinate plants and valuables, and consider leaving them in a trusted family member’s care so they don’t get neglected in the action.

1 Week ahead: 

Pack a day-of-the-move kit, including toiletries, clothes, and bedding. Check and double check rooms, and get rid of any remaining food in order to defrost the refrigerator.

Moving day: 

Work with your movers on fragile or special pieces, but most of all, stay relaxed. You’ve done all the legwork, so focus on you and your loved ones today.

After move-in: 

Arrange lots of visits with family, and make a goal to try out one new activity every day. Pretty soon, it’ll feel just like home!


Moving to assisted living in Michigan doesn’t have to be a hassle. By leaving yourself plenty of time and doing things little by little, your 2018 move will be just an exciting next step.


Reprinted with permission from Vista Springs Assisted Living.



The Grand Rapids Public Museum presents LaughFest Game Night

3-bottom, Local Entertainment, , ,



By Christie Bender
cbender@grpm.org

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today that it is partnering with LaughFest, City Built Brewing Company and Blue Bridge Games to bring the popular Game Night back to the Museum on Friday, March 13 – with a LaughFest Twist. LaughFest Game Night will feature two special comedy showcases at 7 and 9 p.m., held in the GRPM’s Meijer Theater. Ticket price includes entry to one of the comedy shows.

LaughFest Game Night visitors will have exclusive access to the Museum to play games at their leisure, enjoy a craft beer or wine, participate in tournaments, explore the GRPM’s TOYS! exhibit and ride the 1928 Spillman Carousel. Gather your close friends and spend an evening playing games for fun, while experiencing local comedic talent.

“LaughFest was designed 10 years ago to be a community event that celebrates laughter in all its forms,” said Wendy Wigger, President of Gilda’s Club and Gilda’s LaughFest. “LaughFest Game Night at the Grand Rapids Public Museum is a perfect example of how the community and Gilda’s Club can come together to engage West Michigan during LaughFest, share laughter with others, all while having a seriously good time.”

Award winning board games, card games as well as oversized lawn games and interactives from the TOYS! exhibit, including 1980s quarter operated arcade, will be available for visitors to play throughout the evening. As part of leisure game play, Blue Bridge Games will be featuring Game of the Year winning board games and will be available to teach visitors how to play. These include Letter Jam, Wingspan, Medium, Codenames, Forbidden Island and Camel Up. City Built will also provide games from their weekly Game Night including Klask, Dagz, Katon and Bags (cornhole).

A tournament of Euchre will add friendly competition to the evening. Prizes will be awarded to the top two teams in the tournament, and are donated by the Museum, City Built Brewing Company and Blue Bridge Games. Registration for tournaments will be open from 6 to 9 p.m., with games kicking off at 7 p.m. No experience is necessary to participate.

LaughFest Game Night begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 13. The event is open to visitors ages 21 and older. Cash bars will be available serving City Built Brewing Company beers. Tickets are $15 for Museum members and $20 for the general public and can be purchased at grpm.org, by calling 616-929-1700 or on the LaughFest website at laughfestgr.org/event/laughfest-game-night/. 

East Grand Rapids’ free-throw shooting ends East Kentwood upset bid in girls District Championship battle

Citizen Journalism, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Sports, WKTV Featured sports, ,
The 2019-20 East Kentwood High School girls basketball team. (East Kentwood Falcons)

By Mike Moll, WKTV Sport Director
sports@wktv.org

The East Grand Rapids Pioneers were crowned Division 1 District 10 champions Friday, March 6, after defeating the East Kentwood Falcons for a second time this season, 56-53, at Caledonia High School.

It was a game where the Falcons had visions of bringing the championship trophy back to East Kentwood until they committed three consecutive turnovers inside the last two minutes of the game and East Grand Rapids displayed amazing free throw shooting throughout the game.

East Kentwood finishes the year at 19-4 while East Grand Rapids moves to 21-1 and advances to the Division 1 Regionals at West Ottawa to meet 21-2 Muskegon Reeths-Puffer Tuesday, March 10.

The game started off basket-for-basket until the Pioneers ran off 12 of the final 14 points in the first quarter to take a 16-6 lead. East Grand Rapids was led by Jillian Brown with 5 points in the quarter, while East Kentwood had three scorers with two each, Raven Jemison, Kaybriana Hallman, and Madisyn Tillman.

The theme of the night was turnovers right from the first quarter as the Falcons committed seven compared to just two by the Pioneers.

The second quarter had the Falcons getting their offense rolling as they scored 15 points in the quarter, led by Alexis McCully with four including a triple and a free throw along with a three by Deyonce Thompson. Even with that production, the closest they could cut the deficit to was eight as EGR countered with 13 of their own, led again by Brown with six to maintain the lead at the break, 29-21. Just as in the first quarter, the difference was East Grand Rapids capitalizing on four turnovers compared to just another two of their own.

The Falcons were much more aggressive on both ends of the floor after the break and were able to take advantage as the Pioneers more than doubled their turnover total of the first half in just the third quarter with 5. McCully was the main force as she totaled seven points in the stanza but had support as Hallman and Tillman each had four, cutting the lead to just a pair entering the final quarter 40-38. EGR’s sophomore Alli Carlson was responsible for the difference as she had five points.

The final quarter had two ties and two lead changes, as the Falcons were able to go on a 10-1 run to go from down three to what seemed like a huge lead inside the 2-minute mark, 50-44, as they held the Pioneers to no field goals over a 4-minute window. East Kentwood was led by junior McCully with nine points in the final quarter, but after back to back turnovers by EK, and Jillian Brown converting two free throws and a three by her freshman sister Macy Brown, the lead was cut to just one with 1:27 left.

The turnover issues continued for East Kentwood on a third consecutive trip on offense and after a foul on the defensive end, Jillian Brown made two more free throws to give the lead back to EGR with under a minute to play. That was a lead they would not relinquish as the Falcons could only counter with three free throws over the last minute to fall short in the end compared to near perfect free throw shooting for EGR.

The turnover war was the final enemy in that quarter as EK committed seven compared to just two for EGR.

On the night, the Falcons were led by McCully with 20 points, Jemison with nine, Hallman and Tillman with eight each. EGR only had five field goals in the entire second half but countered that low number by making 14-of-17 free throws in the half, including 10-of-12 for Jillian Brown alone, and Carlson was 3-of-4 in the fourth quarter. As a team, East Grand Rapids was 16-of-19 for the game. They were led by Jillian Brown with 21 points, Carlson 16, and Macy Brown with 10.

Stella Royce, the person and the patron, honored at St. Cecilia’s Helen DeVos Legacy Award Gala

3-bottom, Area Education, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local History, Upcoming Events, , ,
Chuck and Stella Royce. (St. Cecilia Music Center)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

The term “patron of the arts” is name-dropped often, but there are few people who it more aptly applies to than the late Stella Royce. With her late husband, Chuck, Stella spent decades generously advocating for and directly supporting arts and culture in West Michigan.

One of those arts organizations to benefit from the couple’s patronage was St. Cecilia Music Center — as evidenced by the beautiful renovated Royce Auditorium at the center, to name only the most obvious contribution.

So it is appropriate that St. Cecilia’s 2020 Helen DeVos Legacy Award will honor Stella at its 2nd annual gala, a sold-out event to be held at the music center Saturday, March 7, during Women’s History Month — also appropriate as St. Cecilia came into being in 1883 under the leadership of several local women.

Chuck and Stella Royce. (St. Cecilia Music Center)

“Stella was a vital force in the leadership and vision of St. Cecilia Music Center for over 60 years, and she and her husband, Chuck Royce, consistently promoted and supported St. Cecilia Music Center,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive director, said in announcing the award. “Stella and Chuck Royce also generously supported other arts organizations including the Grand Rapids Symphony, Opera Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Ballet, as well as many others. … Stella was truly one of the great patron saints of St. Cecilia Music Center and led a life of service to the arts.”

St. Cecilia held the first annual Helen DeVos Legacy Award Gala in 2019, honoring the first recipient and namesake of the award, the late Helen DeVos. The award is now presented each year during Women’s History Month “to a woman who has helped expand the cultural life of our community and has shown exemplary service to the arts.”

Hearing stories of Stella, both from Holbrook and Charlie Royce, one of several relatives of Chuck and Stella who will be in attendance at the gala, it is clear the woman appreciated the arts and enjoyed life.

“I believe that Stella immediately fell in love with St Cecilia from the first day she visited,” Charlie Royce said to WKTV. “Since she passed away, I have spent a lot of time discovering how Stella became an artist in the first place. Because of her childhood I do not believe music or art was even an option for her. Only in high school did she become exposed to music through singing in the choir at Greenville High School.

“I tend to think this opportunity was perhaps her first place to escape to from a turbulent past into something beautiful. By the time she got to St. Cecilia, she knew that music could provide this same beauty to others that maybe struggled like she did. Thus all the programs for children and support for anyone that wanted to pursue their talent. And to have the means to provide it at a place like SCMC made for a perfect match.”

Royces’ long history with St. Cecilia

Chuck’s history with St. Cecilia actually predates Stella’s.

“Chuck’s mother and grandmother had been involved at SCMC since 1913,” Holbrook said to WKTV. “Chuck grew up roaming the halls of the building while his mother and grandmother performed, went to committee meetings and helped organize various events. So, you could say that SCMC was in Chuck’s blood.

Chuck and Stella Royce, with Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive director, and visiting musician Frederica von Stade. (St. Cecilia Music Center)

“When Stella met Chuck, her own love of music naturally drew her to the organization that his family had been so involved in for so many years and she took up the cause as wholeheartedly as his mother and grandmother had done. Chuck and Stella were at all events and concerts (at St. Cecilia). In fact, as their health declined and they were not attending events at SCMC regularly any longer, it definitely felt like something was ‘missing’. … We all wished that she could be here to receive it herself but, both Charlie and Maria are musicians themselves and recognize the impact that their parents had on this organization.”

And Chuck and Stella’s “impact” on St. Cecilia goes far behind the perfect acoustics of the renovated auditorium.

“During the renovation in the (19)70’s, the decision was made to make the auditorium handicap accessible,” Charlie said. “My folks turned this into an opportunity by suggesting the Great Artist Series. The series featured world renowned artists and opened with Izsak Perlman, who was at the time the most recognized violinist in the world who also happened to be handicapped.

“Also, after my folks retired and moved to downtown, they became a kind of welcoming committee of two for whomever just moved to Grand Rapids to head a corporation or take over as a president of a bank or college,” he said. “Through casual conversation my folks would learn of their interests, be it in architecture, the arts, cultural history, education … (and) every tour involved a stop at St Cecilia … Chuck and Stella totally recognized the importance of connecting people with something they could participate in and since they were new in town, St. Cecilia became the first place they connected with”

Proceeds from the Helen DeVos Award Gala honoring Stella Royce will help support St. Cecilia Music Center’s artistic performances, its varied music education programs for youth and adults, as well as preservation of the center’s historical building.

St. Cecilia Music Center is the oldest performing arts organization in West Michigan, according to supplied material, began in 1883. Nine women, led be Ella Matthews Pierce, gathered that year to form a society to promote the study and appreciation of music in all of its branches, and to encourage the development of music within the community. They chose to name the new organization after Saint Cecilia, the patron saint of music.


In the late 1880’s the members began planning for a building of their own, designed by prominent Chicago architect Henry Ives Cobb, who was a protégé of Carnegie Hall’s architect, William Burnet Tuthill. The building, which currently stands at 24 Ransom Ave., in downtown Grand Rapids, opened to the public in 1894, and is the only building in the United States built by women and has operated solely for the purpose of music.

For more information about St. Cecilia Music Center visit scmc-online.org.

Flashfood to pilot new mobile app at SpartanNash, Family Fare

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,

By Lauren DeVol

SpartanNash

As part of its commitment to help customers save money and reduce in-store fresh food waste, SpartanNash is piloting a mobile app at five of its West Michigan Family Fare stores. The app was developed by Flashfood® and allows store guests and community nonprofits to purchase food nearing its best-by date at savings of up to 50 percent off. Eligible items include meat, produce, seafood, deli and bakery products.

The five participating Family Fare stores testing the Flashfood app are located at:

  • 2245 84th St., SW in Byron Center
  • 1415 E. Fulton St. in Grand Rapids
  • 2755 Lake Michigan Drive, NW in Grand Rapids
  • 1225 Leonard, NE in Grand Rapids
  • 6127 Kalamazoo Ave., SE in Kentwood

Flashfood is a Toronto-based mobile app that operates in more than 440 grocery locations throughout Canada, Michigan and Wisconsin. The mobile app is free and available on iOS and Android.

After downloading the Flashfood app, customers can select a participating Family Fare store, choose the items they want to purchase and pay for them directly on the app, then pick up their items and confirm their order at the customer service counter. To make it even easier, the purchased food will be stored at the front of each participating Family Fare in refrigerators and on storage racks until the store guest picks them up.

“Customer convenience is key with the app – and so is our ability to reduce food waste while increasing access to lower cost fresh foods,” Director, Retail Consumer Innovation Matt Bennett said. “Our aisles are filled with a variety of perishable foods, and as we get near the best-by dates, we want to make sure customers know about the savings available to them. This app is a win-win for customers and the environment.”

The Flashfood app pilot is another way SpartanNash is fighting food waste and hunger in local communities. SpartanNash also partners with local food banks and food pantries throughout the company’s footprint, donating pantry staples and shelf-stable products as well as fresh dairy, meat and produce. In 2019, these efforts resulted in more than 5 million pounds of food donations, equivalent to more than 4 million meals to families. In addition to feeding families, SpartanNash also diverts food to area zoos, farmers and livestock producers, repurposing the diverted product into feed for animals.

“Reducing food waste and building stronger communities are both important parts of SpartanNash’s corporate responsibility commitment,” Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Communications Meredith Gremel said. “At SpartanNash, we are always looking for positive changes we can drive as we ‘take food places’ in more socially responsible, environmentally sustainable ways, and the Flashfood app is another way we can do that – all while benefitting our store guests and community partners.”

Michigan Irish Music Festival announces St. Patrick’s party lineup

Entertainment
The Kreellers are scheduled to perform at the St. Patrick’s Party March 13 and 14 in Muskegon. (Facebook)

The Michigan Irish Music Festival is excited to announce its annual St. Patrick’s Party March 13 and 14 at Bella Maria’s Ristorante & Event Center, 513 West Pontaluna Road, Norton Shores.

The party will feature live entertainment both nights. The Kreellers, an energetic Celtic Rock group hailing from Detroit, is an unstoppable powerhouse steeped in traditional Irish sound. The band’s mix of rock, funk, and punk elements has created a sound that is sure to keep patrons rocking all night!

Other highlights of the event include performances by local favorites the Oat Bran Boys, an acoustic trio of bluegrass and Irish music, and traditional Irish dance performances from the Ardan Academy of Dance. Additionally, the silent auction returns both nights with several new exciting formats and ways to bid on the variety of items.

Back by popular demand is McGovern’s Corned Beef and Irish fare, plus Irish soda bread and soft pretzels from the Village Baker. Pigeon Hill Brewing Company’s MI Irish Stout, Magner’s Irish Cider, Irish cream, Jameson Irish Whiskey, and Budweiser products will also be served. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. both nights with music starting at 6pm. Tickets are available at the door for $8, and kids 12 and under get in for free.

The mission of the Michigan Irish Music Festival is to produce a quality Midwest Irish Music Festival that promotes Irish culture and heritage while enhancing the community through entertainment, tourism, education and philanthropy. The festival is proud to support Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry and Kids’ Foot Basket with gifts of non-perishable food items and cash donations. Since 2008, due to the success of the St. Pat’s Party and the Festival, the Michigan Irish Music Festival has donated over $266,000 in cash and 21,000 pounds of food back to the community.

The Michigan Irish Music Festival will return this fall, September 17-20, 2019, at Heritage Landing in downtown Muskegon. The festival kicks off with a Pub Party on Thursday, September 17. The festival and St. Patrick’s Day Party are sponsored by G&L, Budweiser, Van’s Car Wash & Quick Lube, and Family Financial Credit Union. For complete festival information, visit www.michiganirish.org.

Is your mattress malicious?

3-bottom, Community Health, Health, Senior Living, , , , ,
Researchers are concerned that chemicals used in the manufacture of mattresses could affect the health of children and infants. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Dennis Thompson, HealthDay


Most people consider their bed a safe haven, but new research suggests your body heat might trigger the release of potentially harmful chemicals from your mattress.


Mattresses are known to release minute amounts of gaseous chemicals called volatile organic compounds.


These compounds come mainly from the polyurethane used in the mattress, but also from other chemicals used in flame retardants and plastics, the researchers said.


Unfortunately, your body heat appears to increase compound emissions from your mattress, according to tests conducted on eight different types of polyurethane mattresses.


But don’t toss out your mattress just yet: The estimated doses of most compounds remained well below the levels that could cause health effects, researchers noted.


However, some compounds did reach levels of concern for infants and young children, if their ages were considered in exposure calculations, the researchers added.


“There is no reason to panic and yet it is important to understand that air quality in our sleeping micro-environment is important with regard to our exposure to various pollutants such as VOCs,” said senior researcher Yael Dubowski, an associate professor with the Israel Institute of Technology. “Hence, we should make an effort to improve it.”


Health effects associated with compounds range from eye, nose and throat irritation to headaches and organ damage, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.


Some compounds, including benzene, acetaldehyde and formaldehyde, have been associated with increased cancer risk.


For the study, Dubowski and her colleagues subjected eight different mattresses to simulated sleeping conditions, mimicking the elevated body heat, humidity and carbon dioxide caused by humans when they sleep for even a few hours.


The mattresses had been allowed to air out for at least six months prior to the study, noted Sarah Evans, an assistant professor of environmental medicine and public health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City.


“Often we think, well, if you let something air out for a little while, you can dramatically reduce the level of chemicals that are off-gassed,” said Evans, who wasn’t involved with the study. “In this case, even after six months they still saw appreciable levels of off-gassing.”


Body heat appeared to increase each mattress’s release of compounds, compared with the levels released when the mattresses were not in use, researchers found.


Estimated exposures remained below the “No Significant Risk Levels” set under strict California environmental laws, researchers noted.


However, if the exposure levels took into account a child’s age, the picture took on more concern. For example, compounds linked to cancer such as acetaldehyde, formaldehyde and benzene approached or exceeded age-adjusted levels, researchers said.


The new study was published recently in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.


Experts are generally more concerned about children’s exposure to compounds, said Dr. Kenneth Spaeth, chief of occupational and environmental medicine at Northwell Health in Great Neck, N.Y.


Babies in particular spend a lot of time in their crib, lying on foam mattresses that produce these gases, said Spaeth, who had no part in the study.


“By virtue of their age and size, they have heightened vulnerability to potential toxic effects,” he said.


Even if these chemicals don’t do immediate harm, there is concern that exposure will increase their lifelong risk of cancer, Evans and Spaeth said.


The best way to protect against compounds is to maintain good ventilation inside your home, by opening windows and using fans, they said.


“Indoor air can have as much as 10 times higher VOCs than outdoor air,” Evans said. “Getting fresh air in can really help reduce those exposures.”


Consumers also can choose mattresses made of materials other than polyurethane foam, Evans said. Mattresses containing cotton, wool and natural latex will all produce lower levels of gases.


Unfortunately, it can be very difficult for consumers to suss out what’s in a mattress and what sort of compounds those materials might produce, Spaeth said.


“Consumers are in a very difficult position,” Spaeth said. “It’s very hard to get good information about what a mattress contains, and even if you know that, unless you have a good understanding of the different materials it’s hard to know what chemicals might be emitted from those materials.


“The chemicals that are being emitted are not going to be listed in a label that indicates what the mattress is made of,” Spaeth said. “These are byproducts of the materials.”


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Snapshots: Three ‘scenes’ to check out this weekend, next week

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Harry doesn’t mind, if he doesn’t, make the scene. He’s got a daytime job, he’s doing alright.”

Dire Straits, “Sultans of Swing”
Kids of all ages and butterflies mix at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition. (WKTV)

The spring butterfly scene

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition — reportedly the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the nation — is bringing more than 7,000 tropical butterflies to West Michigan. Go here for the story.

Laurie Sears. (Courtesy of the artist)

The jazz club scene

The Listening Room’s jazz series featuring the Robin Connell Trio with guests will continue Saturday, March 7, with singer Mary Rademacher and saxophonist Laurie Sears as guest performers. Go here for the story.

One local resident enjoys his food at a past year’s Taste of Kentwood event.

The foodie scene

The City of Kentwood invites residents and all West Michiganders of all ages to a celebration of food, fun and local business at a community-celebration event, Taste of Kentwood, on Thursday, March 12. Go here for the story.

Fun fact:

Who ‘d foodie?

Some say the word “foodie” originated with the “The Official Foodie Handbook” by Ann Barr and Paul Levy, an 1984 British volume that made merciless fun of the food-obsessed. Source.

Adventures in Michigan: Crystal Mountain set for snow, sun, fun throughout March

Citizen Journalism,

By West Michigan Tourist Association

Crystal Mountain is tapping into spring excitement with four themed weekends during the month of March, all of which feature live outdoor entertainment and fun on-hill competitions and lift ticket discounts for those in costume.

As backyards begin to show signs of spring in March, it’s traditionally a much different story “Up North” as a 50-inch packed snow base holds strong for skiing and snowboarding at Crystal Mountain. The resort plans to soak up the sun and bluebird skies, making the most of winter’s last blast with a month-long celebration featuring bands, food and drink right at the base of the slopes.

“We make the most of winter every March,” John Melcher, chief operating officer, said. “There will be lots of activities for guests of all ages, outside and inside. It will be a great time to come out and enjoy Crystal Mountain and make the most of the rest of winter.”

Here’s a list of some of what’s in store for March at the Mountain:

Mardi Gras on the Mountain, March 6-7

“Let the good times roll!” on Crystal Mountain. Mask making, costume contests, slopeside deejay, a Mardi Gras cookout with BBQ and seafood boil, beads for the entire family and more highlight the first weekend of March at the Mountain.

Spring Carnival, March 13-14

The weekend kicks off with the Cardboard Classic and Slush Cup. Enjoy the slopeside deejay and cookout and stay for the after-party in the Vista Lounge with music from Skarcasm.

Celts and Kayaks, March 21

St. Patrick’s Day weekend features plenty of Irish fare, Celtic dancers, family fun activities like the Shamrock Search with the popular on hill Kayak race and second round of the Slush Cup. Look for Leprechauns! Stay afterward for the free slopeside concert featuring the band Typo.

Retro Day, March 28

Take on Thor’s Challenge and race straight up Thor, or join our Rubik’s Cube contest. There will be lots of retro activities and a free concert featuring the band Risqué.

Spring Break = Free Skiing, March 22 to April 4

Stay, play and relax with free skiing and activities for the whole family. At Crystal Mountain, stay with us March 22 through April 4 in hotel-style accommodations, with room rates starting at $129 per night. Stay at least two nights and get free skiing.

For more information about March on the Mountain, visit www.crystalmountain.com/event/march-at-the-mountain/

Godwin wrestling seniors rewarded for hard work, belief in coaches, with trip to state finals

City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Local Faces, Sports, WKTV Journal Sports Connection, ,
Godwin Heights senior wrestlers Malcom Gowens, right, and Jamykal Lewis, on the mats where the put in all the hard work that led them to the 2020 State Individual Finals. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

Two things about a trip to the Michigan high school wrestling individual finals: it is reward enough for many wrestlers to simply get on the floor of Detroit’s Ford Field, and anything can happen when the action starts.

So for two Godwin Heights High School wrestlers, seniors Malcom Gowens and Jamykal Lewis, there is an excitement to finally be headed to Detroit for this weekend’s tournament to cap off their high school wrestling careers. But, you know, neither are going to be satisfied unless they do a little damage in their brackets.

Lewis, in fact, has a little inside advice on how to do that, given to him by his brother, Eli Southern, who wrestled for Godwin Heights in the state tournament in 2016, and took third place in his weight class.

“One good bit of advice he has given me is to always keep pressure on top, never let your guy get up,” Lewis said this week to WKTV. “And score as many points as possible. Get up and get ahead.”

The pair’s coach, third-year Wolverine coach Kyle Liechty, probably would agree — that its a reward for his seniors to make the state finals March 6-7, that having a big brother who wrestled helps, and that thing about “scoring as many points as possible,” that too.

Godwin Height wrestling coach Kyle Liechty. (WKTV)

“It is an incredible reward for both of them,” Liechty said to WKTV. “They have shown throughout, not just their senior year but the last two years that they have been wrestling under me, ways to continually get better. … They have put in so much hard work. They have gotten so much better. They trusted us coaches to learn the moves and the technique they need to make it to state.”

Those moves and techniques clearly came into play as both made it through their regional tournament last week.

Gowens, who is 36-10 this season and wrestles at 171 pounds, went 3-0 in the tournament, surviving three hard-fought decisions (6-3, 9-6 and the 6-3 in the finals against Trayshon Rinkines of Lansing Sexton).

Lewis (36-7, including his 100th varsity win in districts) had a slightly tougher road to get through the regionals, wining by a fall in his first match but losing a 6-4 decision in the second before battling back in the back-end of the 140-pound bracket with a 3-1 decision and then winning a 7-5 battle with Jared Thelen of Portland.

Multi-sport athletes who put in the work

Both Gowens and Lewis are multi-sport athletes at Godwin Heights, and both also say wrestling has helped them in their other sports. Both have played varsity football, while Lewis is also a track runner and Gowens likes baseball.

Gowens, too, has a brother who wrestled for Godwin before graduating last year. and gained from the experience.

Godwin Heights senior wrestler Malcom Gowens, left, and Jamykal Lewis. (WKTV)

“My brother, Edwin, he’s taught me a lot,” Gowens said to WKTV. “When he was here, we always tried to push each other to be better. Even though he was way heavier than me, and he’d always win, I’d always go back at him. Trying to learn new moves. He was a big man, but it helped me going against different type of wrestlers.”

Both young men also agreed with their coach about the reward of making it to the finals.

“We put in a lot of work to get to this (the state finals), day after day, night after night,” Gowins said. “Having a hurt wrist or something, but coming back to the weight room, to the wrestling room. You go far beyond what you think you can do. Putting in all that work, it fells so good to make it this far.”

“Wrestling is a hard sport, so making it to the state finals is a dream come true,” Lewis said. “I didn’t think I was going to make it this year. But I put all my hard work in. I believed in all my coaches, and they believed in me. Hard work pays off.”

While those two are the only Godwin wrestlers to make the individual finals, coach Liechty said he was proud of two other Wolverines who made the regionals, senior heavyweight Carlos Arroyo and junior Serafin Barranco at 125.

Arroyo was a “first year wrestler … He had 20 wins and did a really good job. He was a staple in our lineup and he gave us some great leadership,” Liechty said. And “I’m excited not only for what (Barranco) did this year but what he can accomplish. I think he can make it to states” as a senior.

And coach does have a track record of such things.

6 weight loss tips to FIT into your schedule

Citizen Journalism
Walking is free

By Dr. Abha Varma, Adult Medicine Physician at Heart of the City Health Center Adult Medicine


Your doctor tells you to lose weight. And you already know this, but it isn’t easy. The following statements may seem obvious, but they can work for you if you commit to a few:

IF YOU DON’T BUY IT, YOU CAN’T EAT IT

Well, duh. But it’s true. If it is not available in your pantry or your fridge, you cannot drink the soda, eat the bag of chips, or indulge in a dish of ice cream.

STAY IN YOUR LANE

Avoid the interior of the grocery store where the cookies and two liters live. Stay on the perimeter or outer circle where the milk, eggs, produce and healthy meats are. There isn’t frozen pizza on the outer sections. You have to walk the distance to arrive at those salty late-night snack attack boxes, so stay on the outer lane and eat to your health.

WALKING IS FREE

Do not long for that gym membership and put off the exercise when the ground beneath you is free and available. When it’s nice out, you should have tennis shoes and socks on and enjoy that walk through the neighborhood. I tell my patients to take advantage of the sidewalks, downtown attractions and bridges along Grand River by going for a cleansing walk after our downtown visits. No excuses — walking is free!

COUNT YOUR STEPS

10,000 steps a day takes a pound of fat off each week. Check your smart phone and clock your steps. Each 2,200 steps is a mile. Don’t stop after one, keep going, take an hour. For all the hours we spend on our back sleeping (7-9 hours) and sitting (another 4-8 hours), we most definitely have an hour to spend walking for our health.

TAKE A PICTURE OF YOUR BEST YOU

Find your best you and achieve that. Celebrate with a photograph of your goal or your best self in your wallet or on your desk. Know that your goals are achievable as long as you make your health a priority. Don’t long for what was, work for what still can be.

YES, YOU CAN!

Find a verse in your text of choice, or affirmations on success.com and keep the positive words flowing.

  • “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” – Lao Tzu
  • “I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took any excuse.” – Florence Nightingale
  • “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Say it, believe it, live it.


Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.