The Village of Walloon Lake is hosting the 3rd Annual Walloon Winterfest on Feb. 22, from 1 – 4 p.m. The event will take place at Barrel Back Restaurant, The Village Green Park, and Tommy’s Walloon.
Winterfest is a family friendly event, with indoor and outdoor activities for kids of all ages. There will be complimentary ice skate rentals in a variety of sizes for the whole family, and free ice skating at the ice rink located in the Village Green Park. Snowshoe and Cross-Country Skis are available for rental at Tommy’s to explore local hiking trails. *Weather Permitting. Warm up inside with a Complimentary Hot Chocolate Bar.
The Petoskey Snowmobile Club will be holding its Second Annual Vintage Snowmobile Ride. The ride begins at the Petoskey Snowmobile Clubhouse, 4172 Evergreen Trail, Petoskey, and will end at Barrel Back Restaurant to be showcased on the lake. Gas is available at the Blue Facilities Building and Snowmobile parking is available for the event. Enjoy free Bean Soup at the Bean Pot while enjoying the Vintage Snowmobiles. All donations collected with be going to the Petoskey Snowmobile Club.
Explore Local Breweries & Wineries, located in Tommy’s, featuring eight local beer, wine, cider, and liquor companies including: Peron, Foggy Mountain, Petoskey Brewing, Mackinaw Trail, Rudbeckia Winery, Gypsy, Longhorn, and Wiseman. Drink tickets can be purchased on site from 1 – 4 p.m. Enjoy Barrel Back food and drink specials, including an extended Happy Hour from 1 – 6 p.m.
Giveaway prizes available. Drawings will be held every hour on the hour, with The Grand Prize beginning a (two) night stay with Hotel Walloon to be given away at 4 p.m. *Must be present to win.
Have you ever felt like you are running out of energy for life? I’m not talking about being tired after a long day, needing space after arguing with someone, getting stressed about bills, or worrying about what your boss thinks of you. I’m referring to a form of fatigue that creeps in slowly over time, somehow never fading and always getting stronger. It’s a phenomenon called burnout, a term seldom used in modern medicine, but a powerful word that reflects this problem.
Burnout is the process of dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, and mental or physical energy used that results in a person never seems to be able to ‘recharge’ and feel rested and relaxed. It’s like a single parent never having a break from caring for a newborn, whose free time is used to think about laundry, dinner, rent, and a mind full of other problems. As you can guess, a person who is constantly ‘on the go’ will eventually run out of energy. Unlike normal fatigue, burnout doesn’t allow us a chance to rest and recover. Instead, we push ourselves harder and longer until we can no longer do much of anything. Our mind and body ‘crash and burn,’ so to speak, and we may find ourselves hating our life and seeing few options.
Fortunately, burnout can be recognized as it starts to develop, and we can learn how to deal with it. Here are a few things you can ask yourself to determine if burnout is happening to you:
Do I feel that I have no energy or desire to do anything these days?
Am I typically on ‘auto-pilot’ when I am working or spending time with others?
Do I remember the last time I took a break and really enjoyed my time without worrying about something?
Am I afraid that I can’t do my responsibilities anymore?
Do I find myself fantasizing about quitting work or other responsibilities?
Am I losing my temper easily, or have little patience with people I love?
Preventing and recovering from burnout are similar. Here are some options to address burnout:
Recognize that you feel overwhelmed and need to do something about it.
Try to prioritize needs, and put aside tasks are not imperative.
Ask for help with responsibilities so tasks are not all up to you.
Find time for small breaks throughout the day to relax you mind and body.
Consider medication and/or mental health therapy for long term benefits.
A final note: Anyone can experience burnout, and it takes awareness, humility, and strength to recognize our limits so we can recover from burnout. If we ignore our self and our needs, our body will force us to stop, and we may wish we were had taken actions to prevent the damage.
This week’s photo is of the 2nd annual juried winner of the 2020 Public Art Project: Klompen Garden. The piece is entitled “To Grandpa with Love,” by Jerry and Karyn Klukos, Fennville. Their design was inspired by Karyn’s grandfather, a longtime resident of the area and avid roller-skater. His love for Tulip Time and his longtime hobby were joined in the creation of his one-of-a-kind klompen-rolschaatsen! For many years, he skated through the streets dressed in full Dutch Costume. (Pictured below.) The Klukos’ submission is a replica of his skates, with the addition of the hand-painted De Zwaan windmills on the front of each shoe.
To Grandpa With Love,” will be on display at the Holland Area Arts Council from May 2 – 10. The 19 remaining klompen will be displayed at Window on the Waterfront and compete for the Viewers’ Choice Awards. The annual Tulip Time Festival is May 2 – 10. Visit tuliptime.com for more information.
Nostalgia with all the trimmings will be on the menu at Journeyman Distillery’sFeb. 21 Chef’s Dinner.
For decades, The Strongbow Inn was a Northwest Indiana mainstay. Specialties like their blue cheese vinaigrette, house-baked dinner rolls and pastries, and (of course) turkey—expertly prepared in a variety of ways—were at the center of many family celebrations and traditions. The closing of the historic dining spot left a hole—not just in the Valparaiso dining scene, but in the hearts of many.
“It’s been wonderful to hear from the many people who have fond memories of times spent at Strongbow over the years,” said former owners, Nancy and Russ Adams. Those fond recollections, plus a lifetime’s worth of recipes and experience, encouraged the Adams’ to partner with friends Johanna and Bill Welter for a one-night-only Chef’s Dinner event at Journeyman Distillery.
Favorites including Turkey Schnitzel will be paired with demi-cocktails crafted with Journeyman’s acclaimed spirits for a dining experience sure to please. Hosts Nancy and Russ Adams will be on hand to share memories and thanks with old fans and new.
Tickets for Journeyman’s Feb. 21st Chef’s Dinner are $45 per person and include 4 courses with demi-cocktail pairings, plus gratuity. Details are available online at journeymandistillery.com/calendar.
Wyoming Community Foundation Chair Greg King sit-down with WKTV Journal’s Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma to talk about the Wyoming Community Foundation. (WKTV)
For Wyoming’s Oriole Park Elementary, it was getting a set of recycling bins to help with its recycling effort. For the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids , it was supporting its Y Achievers Program to bring it to the middle and high school students at Godwin Heights and Godfrey Lee schools.
Since 1992, this is the kind of support that the Wyoming Community Foundation has been providing to the City of Wyoming through its two grant programs.
“It kind of came about as a group of individuals who came together looking to do community stewardship,” said Greg King, who recently became the chair of the Wyoming Community Foundation. “That there were so many different needs going on in Wyoming, and how could this group help fund and support them going forward.”
A few years ago, the Wyoming Community Foundation helped fund new recycling bins for Wyoming’s Oriole Park Elementary School. (WKTV)
The foundation is an affiliate of the Grand Rapids Foundation which King said the Grand Rapids Community Foundation handles most of the administration details for the Foundation. In fact, the Grand Rapids Community Foundation lists five community affiliate funds that include the communities of Ionia, Hudsonville-Jension, Lowell, Sparta, and Wyoming.
The Wyoming Community Foundation ten-member board, which makes decisions on who will receive grants, is made up of community and City of Wyoming business leaders such as Lillian Vanderveen, owner of Lenger Travel, and Chris Hall, former chair and Inner City Christian Federation community homes initiative manager.
The Wyoming Community Foundation awards two types of grants, general fund grants and Youth Advisory Committee grants. Currently, the Youth Advisory Committee program is on hiatus for a year as the group looks to revamp the program. King said the plan is to work with schools that have a footprint in the City of Wyoming to identify the issues the youth committee should focus on. Those schools are Wyoming Public Schools, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, Godwin Heights Public Schools and Kelloggsville Public Schools,
“ [We are] looking at some of the priorities that have changed,” King said. “The priorities that the act [which created the Youth Advisory Committee] had were back from 2016. Things have changed in the past four years. We are looking at getting more input from the schools on what the giving priority should be for our youth.”
Through the foundation’s general fund, the Wyoming Community Foundation did award about $14,000 to six different organizations in 2019. All of the organizations had programs that would directly benefit the City of Wyoming residents, King said. Those groups included Affinity Mentoring, Feeding America Mobile Food Pantries, Junior Achievement, Senior Sing-Along, UCOM’s Eat Healthy, Be Healthy, and the YMCA’s Y Achievers.
Any 501c3 organization that works within the city may apply for a grant. The application process opens in July and ends the second Friday in September. Decisions are announced by Oct. 31. The Youth Advisory Committee grant process usually starts in February.
King said the Foundation can also serve as a springboard for organizations looking for other funding opportunities or residents looking for volunteer possibilities within the community. In fact, King said the Wyoming Community Foundation is currently looking to expand its board and interested residents can contact the Wyoming Community Foundation through its website, https://www.grfoundation.org/about/regional-affiliates/wyoming, or Facebook page.
Kent District Library has been recognized on the national level as a Best and Brightest Company to Work For by the National Association for Business Resources. This award follows being named one of West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in 2019.
The recognition is based upon ratings provided by KDL staff members of workplace culture, benefits and working conditions. These staff ratings were compared with over 5,000 other nominated organizations throughout the United States. Of those, the 540 with the highest scored were honored as national winners.
The competition identifies and honors organizations that display a commitment to excellence in their human resource practices and employee enrichment. Organizations are assessed based on categories such as communication, work-life balance, employee education, diversity, recognition, retention and more.
“The ratings provided by our staff in the Best and Brightest survey and national ranking confirms that we’re onto something special,” explains Brian Mortimore, Director of Human Resources and Organizational Development. “When people come to KDL from other organizations, they’re often surprised at our benefits, workplace culture, and often expressing their desire to stay with us for their full career. Ultimately, it’s our goal to have a positive impact on our community, and a positive culture gives rise to a passion to serve others. This award honors the positive energy our staff bring to their work daily.”
Kent District Library offers full- and part-time staff with a wide range of benefits and matching contributions to retirement savings, telemedicine and prescription drug services, along with support for student loan repayment among workplace benefits. KDL has been honored in the past with recognition in human resource best practices from the Grand Rapids Women’s Resource Center, Disability Advocates of West Michigan, and the Michigan Quality Council. Social activities are planned for staff and their families annually through an employee resource group called “Team KDL” to promote appreciation and a sense of family.
The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® is a program of the National Association for Business Resources that provides the business community with the opportunity to gain recognition, showcase their best practices and demonstrate why they are an ideal place for employees to work. This national program celebrates those companies that are making better business, creating richer lives and building a stronger community as a whole.
As a winner, Kent District Library representatives are invited to attend the national conference for Best and Brightest, taking place in Dallas, Texas in March 2021 to share and learn of other cross-industry best in class practices.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
WKTV has your weekly high school sports schedule, and our coverage crew will be out twice the week.
The Featured Game coverage schedule for the remainder of February includes the following:
Tuesday, Feb. 18 — Boys Basketball Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
Friday, Feb. 21 — Girls/Boys Basketball West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House
Tuesday, Feb. 25 — Girls/Boys Basketball Tri-unity Christian @ Grand River Prep
Friday, Feb. 28 — Girls/Boys Basketball Tri-unity Christian @ Potter’s House
Where and when to see the game
Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. The games can also be seen on AT&T U-verse 99.
All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is this week’s schedule:
Monday, Feb. 17 Boys/Girls Bowling South Christian @ FH Eastern Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids Kelloggsville @ Wellsprings Prep Girls Cheer Wyoming @ Comstock Park Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park
Tuesday, Feb. 18 Boys Basketball Tri-Unity Christian @ Fennville Algoma Christian @ West Michigan Lutheran West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian Grand River Prep @ Fruitport Calvary Christian Muskegon Catholic Central @ Potter’s House Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee — WKTV Featured Event Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian South Christian @ Middleville T-K Wyoming @ Hudsonville Kelloggsville @ Belding Rockford @ East Kentwood Girls Basketball Tri-Unity Christian @ Fennville Algoma Christian @ West Michigan Lutheran West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian Grand River Prep @ Fruitport Calvary Christian Potter’s House @ Muskegon Catholic Central Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights Middleville T-K @ South Christian Hudsonville @ Wyoming Belding @ Kelloggsville Rockford @ East Kentwood Girls Cheer East Kentwood @ Comstock Park
Wednesday, Feb. 19 Boys/Girls Bowling Wayland @ South Christian Byron Center @ Wyoming East Kentwood @ Grand Haven Boys Wrestling East Kentwood – MHSAA Team Regionals
Thursday, Feb. 20 Boys/Girls Bowling Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian East Kentwood @ Caledonia Boys Basketball West Michigan Lutheran @ Kalamazoo Phoenix West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian Girls Basketball Barry County Christian @ Grand River Prep Boys Swimming South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
Friday, Feb. 21 Boys Basketball Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House — WKTV Featured Event Holland Calvary @ Grand River Prep Zion Christian @ Calhoun Christian Wyoming Lee @ Belding South Christian @ Wayland Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian Grandville @ East Kentwood Girls Basketball Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House — WKTV Featured Event Zion Christian @ Calhoun Christian Wyoming Lee @ Belding South Christian @ Wayland Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian Grandville @ East Kentwood Boys/Girls Bowling Godwin Heights @ TBA — O-K Silver Post Season Tourney Boys Hockey South Christian @ Christian Girls Cheer Wyoming – TBA – MHSAA State Districts
Saturday, Feb. 22 Boys/Girls Bowling Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian South Christian – OK Green-Gold Tournament @ Park Center Lanes Wyoming @ Christian East Kentwood – Post Season Conference Tournament Girls Cheer Wyoming Lee @ Comstock Park – Districts @ East Kentwood – MHSAA Districts Boys Hockey Catholic Central @ South Christian Boys Wrestling East Kentwood – MHSAA Individual Regionals
Monday, Feb. 24 Girls Basketball Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation Boys Basketball Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation Boys/Girls Bowling Wyoming Lee @ Potter’s House
Nursing student Mustafa Ajanovic assisted his best friend, Bayle Delalic, through a prenatal visit, weighing in, checking vital signs, and listening for the baby’s heart tones.
He and other students in the Licensed Practical Nursing program went through the steps of a doctor’s appointment with Delalic, who is due May 21, and several other pregnant women who volunteered.
While the session was informative for expectant moms, Ajanovic said it was extremely valuable for his own experience. It’s one of many simulation activities he’s taking part in while training to be a nurse.
“I like the sim labs they provide here because they throw you into a situation and make you critically think and try to organize your time and priorities,” said Ajanovic.
Shelly Richter, nursing programs director at GRCC, credits interactive experiences — part of a new curriculum — as one reason for a jump in scores on license exams in both the Practical Nursing and Associate Degree programs. In 2019, all nursing students passed those exams — 104 associate degree nurses and 42 LPN students. It was also the largest number of students taking the exams ever in one year.
“Simulation, active learning and more engaged activities have seemed to really have an impact,” she said.
While the practice prenatal clinic involved real people, many simulation sessions use manikins that respond and talk. “We have six bed labs and an amazing simulation lab with high-fidelity manikins, so they blink and talk. We can start IVs on them, we have a (manikin) mother that can deliver a baby and an actual baby we can do Apgar scores on,” Richter said, referring to the initial assessment of a newborn’s health.
LPN student Elyssa Systema takes a pulse oximeter reading from expectant mother Kelly Hunter, due Feb. 24. (School Network)
Milestones in Nursing
It’s an apropos time to reach that level of success. GRCC is celebrating seven decades of training nurses this year, with its Practical Nursing certificate program turning 70 and it associate degree program turning 50. The anniversaries coincide with the World Health Organization’s designation of 2020 as the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, in honor of the 200th birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
According to the WHO, the world needs 9 million more nurses and midwives if it is to achieve universal health coverage by 2030.
With classrooms located on the fourth floor of Cook Hall, GRCC’s nursing program is situated perfectly amid downtown Grand Rapids’ hub of hospitals and medical institutions, where new nurses are working in many settings and with all ages and populations.
“We continue to see a big demand for nurses. Our grads get hired 100 percent,” Richter said. “There are definitely jobs available.”
Professor of Nursing Sherry Knoppers said much of the demand for nurses is due to the aging baby boomer generation. “With a huge segment of the population reaching the age range when they need more health care, we need more nurses across the spectrum,” she said.
GRCC’s associate’s program trains three cohorts of 36 to 40 students a year, for a total of about 110 per year who are fully licensed registered nurses.
“They can apply for any RN position. Our students work in the major hospitals around here, long-term care, sub acute, community health, with inmates, with refugee populations. They work in positions including staff nurses, directors of nursing,” Richter said.
Bayle Delalic gets her eyes examined by nursing student Deanna Darrell. (School News Network)
LPNs Still in Demand
While there is a waiting list for the associate’s program, Richter said students shouldn’t feel deterred. They can take prerequisite classes while waiting, and high school students upon completion of their junior year can even apply for the program to get on the waiting list, which is approximately 2 ½ years.
Practical nursing offers two cohorts of 30 to 32 students in a yearlong program, graduating 56 to 60 each year. Licensed practical nurses typically work in long-term care, physician’s offices, clinics and community centers. There is no waiting list for the LPN program.
“There is a misconception in the community that LPNs are not used anymore,” Richter said. “That is also wrong. We have so many facilities constantly calling. There’s a huge demand for practical nursing.”
The cost for the Associate Degree program is significantly less at GRCC than at four-year universities: $19,300 for residents and $38,600 for residents. The cost of the LPN program is $11,000 for residents and $22,000 for non-residents.
Nursing pays about $28 an hour for RNs and around $20 for LPNs. Many hospitals and institutions offer tuition reimbursement for students who go on to pursue their bachelor’s degree.
Expectant mother Bayle Delalic, due May 21, stands on the scale while GRCC nursing student Turkesha Hankins takes her weight. (School News Network)
Hands-on and in the Moment
One of the biggest changes in nursing training in recent years has been simulation experiences, she said.
“One of our goals was to put 25 percent simulation in each course, as a minimum. That way students have the opportunity to practice hands-on in a safe setting. Students love it. They are intimidated at first, but then they realize this is a great opportunity to learn.”
During the prenatal lab, nursing student Turkesha Hankins worked with patients by taking blood pressure and adjusting beds. She’s pursuing her LPN because she already works in health care and will make $5.50 more per hour with her license.
“It’s just knowledge,” she said. “We learn a lot. Pediatrics is something very new to me because I’ve never worked in this field before, so I’m soaking in everything I can.”
LPN student Kaley Tosic takes the blood pressure of expectant mother Kelly Hunter (School News Network)
Diversity of Nurses Needed
Another big change in the profession, Richter said, is the diversity of students. “This used to be a women’s profession. We are always trying to recruit males. It’s really fun. All people bring something different to the table.”
Also, the age of nursing students spans just out of high school to retirees from other careers.
“One of the best things about working here at GRCC is having a diverse group of people that we work with, diverse in race, age, socioeconomic status, background,” Richter said. “It doesn’t matter if you haven’t worked in health care.”
The programs do not use selective admissions in enrollment. That makes the 100 percent pass rate even more impressive, Richter said. Requirements are explained here.
“As a philosophy, this is an open door college,” Richter said. “As long as they have the foundation, we want to carry them through the program.”
For more information about area schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
A sea of boats will be on display at the Grand Rapids Boat Show. (Supplied)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The Grand Rapids Boat Show not only turns 75 this year but is also Michigan’s longest running show. And it will return to DeVos Place in Grand Rapids this week, running Wednesday, Feb. 19, through Sunday, Feb. 23.
The Grand Rapids Boat Show started in 1946 as the West Michigan Sportland Boat Show in the Welsh Auditorium, with less than 25,000 square feet of space, according to supplied material. It is now 250,000 square feet (5.74 acres) of display space throughout the main exhibition halls, Steelcase Ballroom, Grand Gallery and Grand River Overlook where more than 400 boats from over 100 manufacturers and 35 dealers are displayed side-by-side.
Classic and antique boats are also part of the Grand Rapids Boat Show. (Supplied)
“The boaters of the Great Lakes State have embraced this grand tradition every winter for 75 years and this year they’ll find everything from aluminum fishing boats and personal watercrafts, to pro style ski and bass boats, luxury pontoon boats, runabouts, deck boats and big boats like yachts and cruisers … including the 42’ Regal Grande Coupe, recognized as this year’s ‘Queen of the Show’,” event promotional material states.
Other special features at the boat show include:
Twiggy, the Water Skiing Squirrel, performing daily.
Appearances by Pro Wakeboarders & Wakesurfers.
Vintage & wooden boats from Water Wonderland Chapter of Antique & Classic Boat Society.
The pop-up Lake Life Boutique featuring specialized food, drinks, live music and kids’ activities.
An opportunity to suit up and try out the SCUBA Dive Tank presented by Great Lakes Dive Locker.
A Boater Safety Certification (Saturday only) presented by the Kent County Sheriff’s Department Marine Division.
Gizmo D. Robot as he strolls the show, visiting with kids of all ages.
DeVos Place is located at 303 Monroe St. NE, Grand Rapids. Ticket are $12 adults, $5 children aged 6 to 14. Kids 5 and under are admitted free.
There is close-by parking beneath DeVos Place, across the street and connected by skywalk. There is also a complimentary trolley available; park in the Dash Lot Area 9 on Seward ($2 total) and hop aboard the trolley which will be making runs on an 8-minute loop for an hour before the show opens to an hour after the show closes each day.
The Michigan Maritime Museum’s Maritime Lecture Series, Shipwrecks & Lighthouses will feature Kate Heckner Ulrey, Community Engagement Coordinator and St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouses Tour Manager for the Heritage Museum and Cultural Center. Her presentation, “Altruistic Edifices: St. Joseph North Pier Lights” is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 19, from 6:30 pm-7:30 pm at the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven.
The St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouses are a symbol of community, but did you know that the St. Joseph harbor has had a light since 1832? It is the second oldest site for a light on Lake Michigan. Learn how St. Joe went from the first lighthouse on the bluff to the two lighthouses that stand there today. Ulrey will examine the many phases of the lighthouses and the importance of maritime history in the development of the St. Joseph/Benton Harbor community. Over 7,000 people visited the St. Joseph lighthouses this summer and you can too through this engaging presentation featuring photos and discussion.
Ulrey is a former English teacher who enjoys the local history and has an appreciation for the lighthouse and those who kept the light. “Sharing the St. Joseph Lighthouses, their history and their importance has been a wonderful experience. A lighthouse is such a powerful visual of people caring for one another and respecting nature,” says Ulrey. Ulrey began volunteering for The Heritage Museum and Cultural Center in 2015 when she was asked to be a guide on the Haunted St. Joseph tour. In 2016 the lighthouse opened to the public and she began volunteering there. In 2019 she was asked to manage tours as part of the museum’s staff. In addition to Ulrey, the lighthouse is run by a dedicated staff of volunteers who welcomed thousands of visitors last summer.
Admission is $8, $7 for seniors. There is no admission fee for Museum members. Museum doors will at 6:00 pm the evening of the lecture. The Museum is open regularly from Thursday-Saturday the month of February. See the Museum website for hours. For more information, contact the Museum at 269-637-8078 or visit michiganmaritimemuseum.org.
The doctors at Spectrum Health Medical Group and in our OB/Gyn practice are always encouraging our patients to be physically active.
The benefits of living an active lifestyle include keeping your cholesterol, blood sugar and weight under control; preventing cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart attacks; and improving your sleep.
Even better, regular physical activity also reduces falls, joint pain and depression. It helps you feel better about yourself.
Fitness is something that can be measured and improved, and it starts with having a goal.
When I talk to my patients about fitness and goals, I am always reminded of a patient I’ll call Cathy.
Cathy aims to get ‘hot’
While rushing from one room to another in my office one day, I came around a corner too quickly. I almost ran into a woman I didn’t know, so I excused myself.
She stopped me and said, “You don’t recognize me, do you?” I confessed that I wasn’t sure who she was, and she said, “Then you probably don’t remember what you said to me last year, either?” Again, I admitted that I did not. She continued, “You asked me how I wanted to be in the next year when I turned 50, and I had to really think about it. I decided I wanted to turn 50 and feel ‘hot’. So, I decided I would do what it would take, and I just ran my first half marathon. Now I feel ‘hot’!”
We stood there in the hallway for a few minutes and talked about her transformation, and hers was such a great story of how a single goal could change an entire lifestyle.
Cathy’s story began about a year before our chance encounter in the hallway of my office. She had come in for her annual exam, and she was discouraged about her weight and overall fitness level. She left my office that day approximately 25 pounds over a healthy weight, had belly fat she didn’t like, and wore clothes two sizes larger than she wanted.
Like many women, Cathy had a very busy work life, and she barely had time for anything besides work and family. It seemed that after a long work day, her evenings were filled with preparing dinner, packing lunches and helping her kids with homework.
Cathy would try to take a walk on the weekends, but she didn’t have time to exercise regularly, and she got winded just walking up a flight of stairs. She didn’t do any strength training, wasn’t flexible and often complained of leg cramps.
And the list of bad habits went on, including:
Drinking too much coffee and not drinking enough water
Eating on the run
Eating very few fruits and vegetables other than an occasional salad for lunch
Cathy knew that she wanted to look “hot,” but she also knew she had a lot of planning and work to do if she was going to become the person she envisioned in her mind.
During her annual visit, I mentioned the Presidential Fitness Test (adultfitnesstest.org) as a way to find a general measure of how she compared to other women her same age. She looked it up, saw what she was up against, and created a goal to help her on her journey to better health.
Achieving her goal
Cathy’s goal: She wanted to be fit. More specifically, she wanted to be able to run at least three miles, be physically stronger and more flexible. She knew she would not only feel better about her appearance but also be stronger as she faced her next 50 years of life. Her goal kept her motivated when it would have been much easier to give up.
Of course, there were barriers that Cathy knew she would need to overcome—time, motivation, energy and knowledge. During her visit, we talked about starting small so she wouldn’t get discouraged and give up.
She took my advice and started taking walks whenever she had even a little free time—at lunch, after work (before making dinner), and after dinner. Cathy began doing sit-ups and push-ups in the morning before her shower, and stretching every night before bed.
As the weeks and months went on and she had increased energy, Cathy added more to her routine. Her walks turned into a walk/run combination, eventually running more than walking. She started with just 15-20 minutes of exercise at one time but gradually increased the time as she became stronger.
One thing that really helped Cathy stay positive was to measure her exercise by time instead of distance or speed. This proved to be very beneficial to Cathy and helped her keep working toward her goal.
It also helped that Cathy’s husband and kids supported her efforts to become more physically fit. Her husband would take walks with her at night after dinner, and her son rode bikes with her on the weekends. She even found herself wanting to go for a walk instead of grabbing coffee with a girlfriend.
Cathy’s hard work and persistence began to pay off. At that point, she had dropped one pant size, her belly fat started to decrease, and she no longer had leg cramps. More importantly, Cathy’s blood pressure improved, her cholesterol decreased, and her blood sugar made it to the normal range.
As Cathy’s activity level increased, her numbers continued to go down. She was encouraged to keep on her journey, and by the time I saw her, she had run a half marathon, gone down three pant sizes, and lost 35 pounds.
She said she’d never felt better in her life. Although it took almost a year, Cathy met her goal and turned 50 feeling “hot.”
The Listening Room is attracting artists, plugged-in and unplugged, to Grand Rapids. (Supplied/Listening Room)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Its almost universal: music fans, and artists, love an intimate sound space, one where the audience truly becomes part of the music and the artist can make a visceral connection with the audience. Listening Room, one of Grand Rapids newest music houses, is rapidly becoming known as one of those music venues.
Listening Room, which opened late last year and is located at Studio Park at 123 Ionia Ave SW, has already build a reputation with local audiences as a “jazz club” in the classic style, a folk stage where an un-amplified guitar and voice can be heard and appreciated, a place where up-and-coming bands can fill the house as they hone their sonic skills.
The “Room” is also getting known by national touring acts as a place to unwind if not unplug from the impersonal stadium and festival stages, and get back in contact with the audience — Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Los Lobos and Loudon Wainwright III are only three scheduled examples.
The reasons for the venue’s buzz — with national acts and local audiences — are several fold, according to Quinn Mathews, general manager and talent buyer for the Listening Room.
Los Lobos an their acoustic tour line-up. (Supplied)
“We’re lucky to not only be situated between the cities of Detroit and Chicago, but situated between very well known venues on the east side of Michigan and in Chicago, for instance The Ark in Ann Arbor and City Winery in Chicago,” Mathews said to WKTV about his booking national acts.
“The artists agencies in Nashville, New York, Los Angeles have been sending talent around here for years. … Grand Rapids, as a city, is really growing and making national news. People are here, music fans are here, the artists and agents know it.”
While having national acts stopping by is great, Matthews is just as happy with the steady bookings of local acts … such as The Crane Wives on Feb. 28 and Mid Life Crisis on March 23, to name only two.
The Crane Wives (Facebook)
“This was extremely important to me, to have local, regional, national, and international talent. To have music 4 to 5 if not 6 to 7 nights a week,” he said. “Some nights are free or $5 or $10, some nights have international touring acts with tickets $40-$50. I wanted everyone to feel welcome, not to just book one style for one type of audience.
“There was a weekend a few weeks ago where Friday night was Hip Hop, Saturday night was Jazz, and Sunday night was local songwriters. … It was so great to see the place packed out each night with different people in our community.”
And, after all, a 200-seat venue known for as a music “listening room” is clearly focused on the audience experience.
“I think we’re in an interesting time with music in so many ways,” Matthews said. “The industry really changed in the early 2000’s, music became so easily accessible. Everyone listens to music all the time, it’s easy. You can listen for free within seconds. I always laugh in the grocery store walking around, there will be a kid, 12-years-old, with earbuds in listening to music on one aisle. The next aisle, a 85-year-old with earbuds in.
“Everyone is listening. The trick is do they attend concerts? Many more people are downloading and streaming music, but does that translate to ticket sales for live music? Sure Elton John and Bruce Springsteen sell out arenas, but who attends concerts in rock clubs, coffee shops, breweries, etc?
“I think whether I agree with it or not there seems to need to be another factor for folks to attend a concert. … We wanted to build a place that was comfortable, seated, nice atmosphere, like the old jazz clubs, servers bringing you bourbon, etc., a place that feels really great even before the music starts.”
For more information on all concerts at Listening Room, visit listeningroomGR.com or call 616-900-9500.
The new State of Michigan Absentee Ballot return envelope. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
The March 10 Presidential Primary ballots, both the crowded Democratic version and the less crowded Republican version, are already in Wyoming and Kentwood voters hands if they applied for absentee ballots.
And it is not too late to apply for absentee ballots for the coming voting day, or for the entire and very busy 2020 voting calendar which includes the March 10 presidential primary election, a May 5 potential proposal or millage election, the Aug. 4 state and federal primary election and the Nov. 3 presidential, federal and state general election.
There will also be voting in the Wyoming Public Schools district for a millage renewal on the district’s March 10 ballot, and there will be voting for Kent County Sheriff and the 62 B District Court (Kentwood) judgeship, possibly in both primary and general elections.
For more information on the Wyoming Public Schools Operating Millage Restoration Proposal on the March 10 ballot, visit here.
But first, the presidential primary. And given the evolving list of political candidates in each party’s race, the ballot will show candidates who have already dropped out of the race.
“The list of candidates who will appear on the March 10 Presidential Primary is created, per statute, by the Secretary of State and the state chairpersons of the two political parties, based on whom they deem to be nationally-recognized candidates,” Robert J. Macomber, Kent County Chief Deputy Clerk and Register of Deeds, said to WKTV. “Because the candidate list was finalized in December in order to meet programming and printing deadlines, the ballots will include the names of several candidates whom have since ended their campaigns.”
While there are things for voters to watch out for on the presidential primary ballot, there are also things to know about the state’s new absentee ballot rules and envelopes.
Voters in both Wyoming and Kentwood can request absentee ballots, for specific voting dates or for the entire 2020 calendar, by contacting the city’s respective city clerk offices. For more information on Kentwood, visit here. For more information on Wyoming, visit here.
“With the passage of Proposal 18-3, Michigan voters now have the right to vote absentee without providing a reason, and the right to request to be placed on what is known as the Permanent Absentee List, and maintained by most city and township clerks,” Macomber said. “When on the permanent list, the voter will automatically receive an Absentee Ballot Application in advance of each election. On that application, the voter will have the option to request to receive the ballot for one election, or each subsequent election in that year.”
Absentee, not early, voting with new envelopes
While it seem to be a nuance, absentee voting is not early voting — and that particularly matters for the coming presidential primary.
“You may hear the terms Absentee Voting and Early Voting used interchangeably, however Michigan is has absentee voting, not early voting,” Macomber said. “In early voting states, ballots are immediately tabulated upon return to the clerk. In an election like a Presidential Primary, that distinction matters.
“In Michigan, whether they voted for a candidate who may have exited the race, or simply changed their mind prior to any election, voters who return an absentee ballot have the right to spoil their ballot and cast a new ballot at any time prior to 4 p.m. the day before the election. For the Presidential Primary, that would be 4 p.m. on March 9. Ballots cast for candidates that have dropped out will still appear in Election Night results, and how those votes are later allocated into delegates are determined by the political parties rules.”
There are also newly designed envelopes for absentee ballots, and some details on how they should properly be returned.
The new State of Michigan Absentee Ballot envelope sent to voters who request them. (WKTV)
“The Secretary of State has adopted a new design for absentee envelopes, and voters should pay close attention to their mail in light of that change,” Macomber said. “Previously, absentee ballots came in a dark yellow/golden envelope. The ballots are now mailed in a mostly white envelope with a blue strip on the left side, with ‘Official Absent Voter Ballot.’
“Normal postage requirements, or the timeframe to return the ballots has not changed — ballots need to be received by the voters city or township clerk’s office (not the polling location), whether mailed or hand delivered, by 8 p.m. on Election Day in order to be counted.”
For more Kent County election information visit here. For more State of Michigan election information, visit here.
Taking on the responsibility of caring for an aging or ill loved that can no longer take care of themselves one is one that many family members take on without question. They are happy to take care of the person that, in many cases, cared for them and they will do so with complete devotion. But, even the most devoted caregiver can struggle to find a healthy balance between their own life and the duties of care giving. This is where respite care comes in. Respite care is temporary, professional care of a dependent person that provides relief for their usual caregivers.
A Commonwealth Fund study reported that 60 percent of the family caregivers surveyed, ages 19-64, reported “fair or poor” health and one or more chronic conditions or disabilities, compared with only 33 percent of non-caregivers. There are 16 million caregivers, and 9 million of those have health problems of their own.
Taking time off to care for themselves is something caregivers should consider a necessity, not a luxury. And when it’s time to take that break, they can turn to respite care services. While they may be reluctant to take a break, here are some reasons to take advantage of the respite care services offered by local assisted living centers.
Avoid isolation and depression
When a loved one needs constant care, it’s tempting for a caregiver to shut out the world and focus on giving them the care and attention they need. But becoming socially isolated from friends can affect more than their social life. Too much social isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, despair and eventually depression. This is often a worry in regards to the elderly if they can’t travel or get out on their own, but it is something that can affect caregivers as well. While our loved ones can be great company, it’s important to see out other interactions and nurture friendship to avoid loneliness and depression.
Stay in good health
We already mentioned that a large number of caregivers report significant health problems. But, it should be noted that many of those health problems could be avoided if the caregiver to the time and energy to take care of themselves and not just their loved one. Taking the time to exercise, visit healthcare providers, or just get out into the fresh air can have positive effects on our health. Caregivers suffering from illness, chronic pain or other ailments cannot provide the best care possible to their loved ones.
Exhaustion
Sometimes, being tired can be worse than being sick. Especially being over tired. And, not getting enough sleep can make our bodies more prone to illness. Nights spent listening to see if your loved one will get out of bed or fall in the night can affect sleep even if it feels like they are getting enough. It may be hard to fall into a deep sleep if you are constantly worried or on guard. Even one night away can reset your clock and leave you feeling awake and alert.
Stay mentally focused
Exhaustion and illness can not only affect our bodies but our minds. If you are in charge of distributing medication or tracking the diet of your loved one, you need to be as focused and alert as possible. Letting your mind wander or become clouded can be a dangerous mistake. But if you aren’t getting enough sleep or are feeling overwhelmed, it can happen easily.
Stay positive
Stepping away from the trials of caregiving even for a day or two can offer a whole new outlook on life. If caregivers feel overwhelmed, exhausted or ill it can be difficult to remember why they chose to be a caregiver in the first place. By stepping away or taking a vacation, they can renew their bodies but also refresh their minds and gain a new, positive outlook on the perks and rewards of caring for their loved one.
The opportunity to refresh and renew is good for both the caregiver and the patient and should be taken advantage of. A day away here and there and vacations can help make sure that caregivers are at their peak physical and mental health. Taking advantage of respite care opportunities is a great way to take the time caregivers need to take care of themselves.
Faith Hospice volunteer Elaine Martin delivers a handmade card and Valentine’s Day box of chocolates to former Wyoming resident and historian Dorothy Simon-Tibbe. (Photo by WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
Dorothy Simon-Tibbe easily admits that she was always better at giving gifts than receiving.
So it should have come as no surprise to the media crew at Faith Hospice Trillium Woods covering the special Valentine’s Day deliveries to patients that the first thing the former Wyoming resident and historian would do with her box of chocolates is open it and offer a piece to everyone.
A Valentine’s Day card that hands in Dorothy Simon-Tibbe’s room. (Photo by WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
“I appreciate being remembered,” Dorothy said. And as she passed around the candy, she added “You know I have been very blessed in that I have already received a lot of candy for Valentine’s Day.”
A small table near the doorway to Dorothy’s room has Lindt chocolates and other goodies along with Valentine’s Day notes. Across from where Dorothy sits is a large Valentine’s Day card that hints at her generosity: “No one has a bigger heart than you.”
“The reactions are all different,” said Cheryl Brink. volunteer coordinator for Faith Hospice Trillium Woods, about the annual Valentine’s Day delivery of candy to patients. “There are lots of smiles. Who doesn’t love chocolate?”
Valentine Day’s candies and cards ready for delivery. (Photo by WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
The Valentine’s Day surprise started about four years ago as an anonymous donor wanted to remember a family member and thank Faith Hospice for the care it provided. The person donated the boxes of chocolates and volunteers distributed the candy to Faith Hospice patients at the Trillium Woods, in their individual homes, and other nursing facilities where Faith Hospice oversees care.
The special Valentine’s Day surprise was so well received that every year since an anonymous donor has purchased the chocolates to be distributed to the Faith Hospice patients, which total more than 300.
“It’s just so joyful,” said Elaine Martin who once lived in the Wyoming area but now resides in Shelbyville with her husband. “There is surprise and joy. Some question where the candy came from and why. They usually smile back and sometimes invite you to sit with them for awhile. It’s a happy moment of their day.”
Upon receiving the candy, Dorothy immediately invited Elaine to sit with her and chat.
“You are probably going to say that Dorothy talked and talked and talked,” she said with a laugh, but being a former Wyoming historian and a “Wyominite” for most of her life (Dorothy originally came from the Traverse City area) had had a lot of stories to share.
Former Wyoming resident and historian Dorothy Simon-Tibbe and Faith Hospice volunteer Elaine Martin look over one of the Wyoming history books that Dorothy helped wrote. (Photo by WKTV/Joanne Bailey-Boorsma)
She talked about her time as writer for the Southkent Advocate which lead to her getting involved with her beloved City of Wyoming. She showed off the two City of Wyoming history books she helped write “Wilderness to Wyoming” and “A City of Wyoming: A History,” along with a book she wrote for her family “Hoe Your Own Row.” She had stories of being on the city’s Planning Commission and other city committees and that “I knew every mayor and city council member…at least who was in my age bracket.”
“I have had such an incredible life,” Dorothy said. “As I look at the end of life, I am not bother by it at all. I married two wonderful husbands, had five wonderful children by birth, three foster children, 19 grandchildren, 47 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.”
As Elaine gets ready to leave, she gives Dorothy hug, thanks her for sharing and tells Dorothy that she will definitely have to pick up one of Dorothy’s books as she is curious about the area she once lived in.
“It’s more than just the candy,” Elaine said as she readies the candy cart for the next deliveries. “It is someone is thinking about me.”
A good mood is infectious among teens, but depression is not, a new study suggests.
Researchers looked at more than 2,000 American high school students to see how they influenced each others’ moods. They found that a positive mood seems to spread through groups of teens, but having depressed friends doesn’t increase a teen’s risk of depression.
In fact, having plenty of friends in a good mood can halve the chances that a teen will develop depression over six to 12 months. Having a lot of happy friends can also double the likelihood of recovering from depression over the same time period, the researchers found.
However, the study could only show an association between happy friends and a lower risk of depression or a faster recovery from depression. It cannot prove a cause-and-effect relationship between these factors.
“We know social factors, for example living alone or having experienced abuse in childhood, influences whether someone becomes depressed. We also know that social support is important for recovery from depression, for example having people to talk to,” study author Thomas House, a senior lecturer in applied mathematics at the University of Manchester in the U.K., said in a university news release.
“Our study is slightly different as it looks at the effect of being friends with people on whether you are likely to develop or recover from being depressed,” he added.
These findings suggest that promoting friendships, through such activities as social clubs, might help guard against depression, House noted.
“This was a big effect that we have seen here. It could be that having a stronger social network is an effective way to treat depression. More work needs to be done but it may that we could significantly reduce the burden of depression through cheap, low-risk social interventions,” House concluded.
On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus we continue WKTV’s series of discussions on the impact of Michigan’s recent legalization of recreational marijuana.
First we talked with the executive director of Michigan’s Marijuana Regulatory Agency, the state office which controls both the state’s medical and recreational marijuana distribution facilities. See the video here.
Now, In Focus is Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young, who discusses the current and evolving legal aspects of the recreational marijuana, specifically how the law enforcement community is reacting to the laws associated with legalization.
Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young on the WKTV Journal In Focus set with host Ken Norris. (WKTV)
Specifically, the Sheriff talks about where is it legal and illegal to smoke marijuana in public, and while there are laws on the books dealing with driving while impaired by alcohol, it is a new and evolving situation when it comes to driving while impaired by marijuana and other cannabis-derived products.
WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (see our Weekly On-air Schedule for dates and times). All individual interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.
People in north Michigan are not different at all from people in southern Alabama. Trust me, someone who’s spent a lot of time in both places. They’re all hardworking, simple people.
The 28th Street Metro Cruise organizers announced this week that Woodland Mall will be a second main event spot for the 2020 28th Street Metro Cruise. The new location, which will be open only on Aug. 22, will feature a wide array of collector, sports, and antique cars along with other activities. Of course the main event will remain at Rogers Plaza and will include many of the activities that are popular at the 28th Street Metro Cruise. For more information, click here.
Tag teaming against cancer
Stating Jan. 1, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, Mercy Health and Michigan Medicine launched the new initiative the Cancer Network of West Michigan. The initiative is designed to integrate cancer care services in West Michigan with the goal of bringing broader access to advanced, state-of-the-art, comprehensive diagnosis treatment and support across leading health care institutions. How will this impact patient care? Click here to find out.
Leslie Odom Jr. (Photo by Nathan Johnson)
‘Hamilton!’ Fever
If you did not get a chance to see “Hamilton!” or just did not get enough, the Grand Rapids Symphony has some great news: Leslie Odom, Jr. who originated the role of Aaron Burr in the musical will be performing with the Grand Rapids Symphony in its 2020-21 season. This and the symphony’s Classical Series lineup was announced this week. Don’t miss your shot by clicking here to learn more.
Happy Quasquicentennial!
Mackinac State Historic Parks mark its 125th anniversary this year with lots of celebrating planned throughout the year. Mackinac Island was actually the second national state park, designated in 1875. The park was turned over to the State of Michigan in 1895 at the request of then Governor John T. Rich with a condition: that the area remain a state park or the land would revert back to the United States. For more information on the 125th Anniversary activities, visit mackinacparks.com/mackinac125.
The Wyoming High School Wolves boys basketball team, from an early season game. (Curtis Holt)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Wyoming High School will be hosting its annual Hall of Fame Basketball Community Night Friday, Feb. 14, with the Hall of Fame Class of 2020 honored, special coverage by ESPN radio and the WKTV video crew, and two special performances by Wyoming’s Dance Team.
Oh, and ya, there will be also be what will likely be the OK-Conference Gold’s boys basketball game of the season as Wolves boys team hosts Grand Rapids Christian for the conference lead.
The Wolves boys (13-1 overall, 7-1 in OK Gold) will seek to tie for the conference lead and avenge their only loss of the season as they host the Eagles (14-0 and 7-0) in an 8 p.m. game. On the girls side, Wyoming (5-10 and 2-6) will try to spoil the conference title chances of Christian (13-2 and 5-2) in a 6 p.m. game.
Both games will be WKTV Sports Featured Games, which will be available on cable television and on-demand at WKTVlive.org.
“These are great games for the team and the community,” Wyoming boys coach Thom Vander Klay said to WKTV. “Wyoming has always had tremendous support for our kids and respecting the countless hours of training and practice it takes to develop their skills.
“The boys been working since elementary school to play in games like this one … and next Tuesday at Hudsonville, etc.,” he said. “Our kids will battle.”
This pack of Wolves led by seniors
One of those kids who will battle is senior Menalito McGee, who will be honored between the two games for scoring his 1,000th point in a Wolves uniform during a game in January.
The Wyoming High School Wolves boys basketball fans were into this Dec. 13 home game; this week’s game will be even more exciting. (Curtis Holt)
“Menalito is a great leader and is one of the best communicators we have ever coached,” Vander Klay said. “He leads the team in assists and rarely turns the ball over, particularly given the amount of time he has the ball in his hands.”
McGee is averaging an impressive 26.4 point per game this season, including shooting 47-of-82 from 3-point distance and 45-of-54 from the free-throw line, with 61 assists and only 15 turnovers.
“He has one agenda,” Vander Klay said. “ … to help us win. In his case that means he may have to score.”
But the Wolves are not a one-man team, as their record indicates, and have gotten great play from fellow seniors Marion Parks, Diego Ledesma, Monte Parks and Quincy Williams.
Marion Parks was a honorable mention All-Conference player last year and this season is averaging 12 points and nearly six rebounds a game.
“He had 27 against GR Christian in the first game to lead all scorers,” Vander Klay said. “He is a great athlete and competitor.”
Ledesma is second on the team in scoring, averaging 15 points per game, while Monte Parks is averaging eight points and five rebounds per game.
Wyoming High School basketball coach Thom Vander Klay, coaching. (Supplied)
“Ledesma is a very skilled player that continually works on his game to improve and loves the big games,” Vander Klay said. “Monte Parks is a great athlete and is fearless regarding competition. He can board, defend and score.
“Quincy Williams (leading the team in rebounds per game with just under seven per) is our role player that will continually battle and emerge with big plays on both ends of the floor even though he is perpetually undersized,” Vander Klay added.
Other players on the team include seniors TJ Chandler, Carlo Bass and Deion Parks, and juniors Jeremy Barber, Payton Lee, Joshua Anstey, Sam DeYoung, Mahki Matthews and Seth DeYoung.
Big night of basketball and ceremony
And, it if playing at home on a special night is not motivation enough, there is that matter of the Wolves only loss coming at Christian.
“Obviously, we believe we can improve one possession since the January 17 game,” Vander Klay said. “Certainly motivation is high for both teams to play well and we have been working on things for a long time.
“We emphasize our pace including making sure our opponent plays fast for as close to 32 minutes as possible. The faster the pace, overall, the better opportunity we have to win games. We hope Grand Rapids (Christian) will have to play 32 minutes at our pace to give us the best opportunity for victory.”
The planned Hall of Fame Ceremony — the induction of Joslyn Narber, Micah Bell, Craig Chappell, Rich Friberg, Sue Peterson, Paul Agema — is also set for between the two games.
The night will also be Wyoming Dance Senior Night, with performances at halftime of both games. There will also be a performance by the school’s honors choir and pep band, special student section t-shirts and an effort to set a student section attendance record, and the Wyoming Wolf Mascot bounding around.
WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.
The 28th Street Metro Cruise draws nearly 250,000 people to the annual event. This year, the event will have a second location at Woodland Mall. (Supplied)
The 28th Street Metro Cruise® organizers announced the expansion of the popular summertime event to include a second main event site at Kentwood’s Woodland Mall.
Rogers Plaza has been the sole “official” site of Metro Cruise® for the past 10 years. Attracting nearly 100,000 people in two days, the main site has grown significantly during the past few years. It now features more than 25 food vendors, 400 collector cars, kid’s entertainment area, Community Awards ceremony, Miss Metro Cruise® competition finale, five top area bands, and the popular Dynamometer car testing area where cars rev to 160 mph.
The new second main event site which will be located in the large southwest parking lot of the Woodland Mall, 3195 28thSt. SE, will be open Aug. 22 from 11 a.m to 8 p.m. The Woodland Mall location will feature a wide array of collector, sports, and antique cars. It will also have multiple food vendors including popular local food trucks, entertainment for kid’s, and three local bands. A new feature unique to this site will be the Safe City elements – which will include an impaired driving course, jaws of life demonstration, and a distracted driving simulator.
Overall, Metro Cruise® draws nearly 250,000 people city-wide to dozens of events along 28thSt. With the expansion on the east side, those numbers are expected to be exceeded this year.
“We are very excited to increase the reach and footprint of Metro Cruise®”, said Bob O’Callaghan, President and CEO of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce. “Our group has been researching this expansion for the past couple years, and the time is now right. This move allows us to have an official presence on the east side of 28th Street, while easing the very high attendance at the Rogers Plaza location.”
The partnership with the immediately recognizable location of the Woodland Mall was a major factor in this new partnership. “Our top choice for a site was the Woodland Mall,” O’Callagha said. “They are a major player along 28th Street.”
The Rogers Plaza site will remain the largest site of Metro Cruise®, with all elements returning for this year’s event, including a free shuttle service courtesy of the Rapid partnership. The famous Collector Car Row, the lineup of 200-plus show cars along 28th Street, will be featured each day. The Main Event at Rogers Plaza (972 28thStreet SW) will be Friday, Aug. 21 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday, Aug. 22 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The next big event for the Metro Cruise will be the annual Dust-Off which will take place May 4 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Wyoming Moose Lodge, 2630 Burlingame Ave. SW.
For more information and schedule of events visit www.28thstreetmetrocruise.com. Follow the Metro Cruise on Facebook (f/metrocruise) and Instagram (@metrocruise). The 28th Street Metro Cruise® is owned and managed by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.
Albani Chavez had lunch with Superintendent Bill Fetterhoff after sending him a letter to persuade him to change the school start time (Courtesy Photo)
North Godwin Elementary fourth grader Aime Fonseca wrote to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, asking her to boost recycling efforts across the state by offering free recycling. The governor responded with an encouraging letter, which Aime received in early January.
“When I got my letter I was so excited and I was so surprised,” said Aime, who found her passion for protecting the environment when she learned about climate change last year in third grade. “When we read it, it was so specific.”
Aime Fonseca holds the letter she received from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer this January (Courtesy Photo)
A writing assignment yielded some meaningful outcomes for Aime and other fourth graders in Kelly Compher’s class. Compher challenged her students to showcase their persuasive writing skills by writing a letter to someone about something they felt strongly about.
“Originally this was just going to be letter writing for the purpose of an assignment, but one of our kids asked, ‘Will we be actually sending these?’” said Compher. “That changed this from just a writing assignment to writing for a purpose.”
Students sent letters to a variety of people, including parents and teachers.
“I decided to write to Mr. Fetterhoff to see if the elementary schoolers can get more sleep — to see if he can change the (school start) timing to 9:30,” said Albani Chavez, who was inspired to write the letter after noticing that she learns best when she’s well-rested.
While Superintendent Bill Fetterhoff could not grant the request because it would conflict with before and after school programming, Albani said, she was excited that he came to her classroom and had lunch with her and her teachers to discuss the idea.
After getting the response from Gov. Whitmer, Aime Fonseca says she will write more persuasive letters to encourage political leaders to take care of the environment, particularly lakes and streams, and to encourage them to make recycling widely available.
“Aime was so incredibly proud and the kids in the class were so excited for her,” Compher said. “In the future, I will definitely continue mailing these letters.”
Taking a moment each day to journal or plot out your thoughts could help you improve your focus, a key aspect of your well-being. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
If you’re satisfied with your life, you probably have emotional well-being.
Emotional well-being can be mastered just like any other skill, according to Richard Davidson, founder of the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
How? By developing four key traits, said Davidson, a neuroscientist.
Resilience
The first is resilience. Research at the Center for Healthy Minds found that, over time, regular mindfulness meditation can help you learn how to bounce back from adversity.
Mindfulness meditation teaches you to become aware of your thoughts and emotions, center yourself and decide how you would like to proceed with the rest of your day. Find out more at mindful.org.
Positivity
Having a positive outlook is the second key trait—both finding the positive in others and being positive in the way you approach life.
Another type of meditation called compassion meditation is said to bring measurable changes after two weeks of 30-minute-a-day sessions. The goal is to switch from being judgmental to being caring.
Focus
Next is improving your attention level. A Harvard study found most people spend nearly half of their waking hours not paying attention to what they’re doing.
Letting the mind wander typically makes people unhappy, the researchers concluded. Practice focusing on the here and now, one task or activity at a time.
Generosity
Finally, become more generous of spirit. This means feeling happy for others when they do well rather than being envious or bitter, emotions that only hurt you.
Generous behavior activates circuits in the brain that promote well-being while enhancing the lives of those around you.
Yes, it takes time and effort to change your thinking and the way you see the world, but the benefits are infinite. And the more you practice, the more natural it will feel.
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Local state legislators, and leaders from the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming, weighed in on Gov. Gretchen Whitmer plan to borrow $3.5 billion to rebuild the state’s deteriorating highways and bridges over a 5-year span, as part of a wide-ranging inter-governmental leaders meeting Monday, Feb. 10, at the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum at Wyoming City Hall.
The Democratic governor unveiled the bonding plan during her second annual State of the State speech to lawmakers. It will enable the state Department of Transportation to do about twice as much construction on I-, U.S.- and M-numbered routes as it can now, she said in her speech. The funds would not be used to repair local roads.
But it was near unanimous opposition to, or at least serious questioning of, the Governor’s plan from local officials.
State Sen. Peter MacGregor (R), in part, pointed out that “bonding for the roads is not a solution” and compared such a plan to “financing the roads by putting it on credit cards.” While State Rep. Steve Johnson (R) said that when it comes to government financing “it is really easy to get into debt and really hard to get out.”
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and Wyoming Mayor Pro-Tem Sam Bolt also voiced their concerns.
Mayor Kepley said, in part, that “this is not long-term planning,” and Bolt pointed out that the increased state road work “doesn’t do any good for Wyoming” as it not have any funding for city roads.
Other discussion topics at the meeting included Kent County recycling efforts and the issue of drivers license documentation for undocumented immigrants.
The meeting, as always, was hosted by chamber member and moderator Kathy Batey and chamber president Bob O’Callaghan. The intergovernmental discussion hosted by the chamber focuses on issues that effect residents and businesses in the two cities.
The Government Matters meeting brings together representatives from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, Kent County commissioners, local Michigan state senators and representatives, as well as often representatives of Michigan’s U.S. senators and U.S. congressman who represent the Wyoming and Kentwood area.
At the February meeting, state leaders also included Rep. Tommy Brann. On the federal level, the panel included Peter Dickow, West Michigan Regional Director for U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, and Brian Patrick, communications director for federal Rep. Bill Huizenga (Michigan Congressional District 2).
The next meeting will be March 9, from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., at Wyoming City Hall.
For more information about the chamber and Government Matters visit southkent.org.
The meetings are on the second Monday of each month, starting at 8 a.m. WKTV Journal will produce a highlight story after the meeting. But WKTV also offers replays of the latest meeting on Wednesdays at 7 p.m., as well as on select Saturdays, on Comcast Cable Government Channel 26. For a highlight schedule of WKTV cable programs visit WKTVjournal.org.
The Inn at Bay Harbor, located on Lake Michigan near Petoskey, is hosting a retreat-style weekend of dance, Feb. 21-23. Ideal for novices on the dance floor, this weekend offers the opportunity to learn Waltz, Rumba, and Swing from professional instructors, plus enjoy dinner and a show.
The Inn’s Arlington Ballroom serves as center stage for the weekend’s dance instruction. Friday evening features a welcome reception, followed by instruction from 6 to 7:30 pm. On Saturday morning, guests wake to a delicious breakfast before slipping on their dance shoes for four-hours of instruction with a break for lunch. The day concludes with an elaborate buffet dinner of Frenched chicken, braised beef short ribs, roasted fingerling potatoes, Canaroli risotto, Michigan root vegetables, asparagus, dinner rolls, teas and coffees, along with a performance by the instructors. Event goers can enjoy a leisurely breakfast on Sunday morning prior to departure. Additional dance lessons can also be scheduled on Sunday.
The Inn at Bay Harbor offers 113 newly renovated accommodations ranging from standard guest rooms to multi-bedroom suites. Guests of the resort can also enjoy a full-service spa, daily Afternoon Tea service, lakeside dining, outdoor hot tub, and shuttle service to explore the shops and eateries in the Village at Bay Harbor and Petoskey’s historic Gaslight District.
The weekend event, including two nights’ lodging, dance instruction, and meals starts at $682 for two guests. For more information or reservations, visit nnatbayharbor.com or call 866.759.3427 and use promo code SHO.
The Meijer State Game of Michigan will have local events this weekend; snow will be involved and registration is still available. (Supplied/Meijer State Game of Michigan)
WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The main weekend of the Meijer State Games of Michigan’s Winter Games will take place this weekend, Feb. 14-16, with local sports including indoor archery, ninja, fencing, cross country skiing (freestyle and nordic), karate, disc golf, shooting sports and wrestling.
Online registration as well as onsite registration is still available for some main weekend sports, according to supplied material. For more information about onsite registration, times, locations and entry fees for events, please visit stategamesofmichigan.com. Registration information is located on each sport’s page.
The main weekend will begin with an athlete celebration hosted by the Grand Rapids Griffins on Friday, Feb. 14, at the Van Andel Arena. A special in-game recognition of all Meijer State Games athletes will take place during the first period.
Prior to the Griffins game, the Meijer State Games will present the 2019 Athletes of the Year awards, including to Catherine Vandergriff of Spring Lake (speed skating), Noah Zomberg of Grand Rapids (rugby) and Anastasia Schutte of Holland (archery 3D).
The Meijer State Games of Michigan held the first sporting event of the Winter Games, fatbike, on Feb. 1. Results for all the Winter Games sporting events are now available here.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan, according to supplied material, is an Olympic-style, multi-sport event(s) that welcomes athletes regardless of age or ability level. “The games embody the values of participation, sportsmanship, and healthy living among the residents of Michigan.”
Since 2010, Meijer State Games of Michigan has hosted more than 65,000 athletes. The Meijer State Games of Michigan has also contributed over $25 million in estimated economic impact to cities throughout Michigan, according to supplied material.
Leslie Odom Jr., the actor who originated the role of Aaron Burr in the Grammy Award-winning musical “Hamilton!” is just one of the highlights of the Grand Rapids Symphony upcoming 2020-21 season with the Classical Season being unveiled this week.
The Classical Season features a mix of popular music, world-class soloists, new music, new concert series and special events beginning in September 2020.
Highlights under Music Director Marcelo Lehninger includes performances of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, the most famous four notes in all of music, and Mozart’s Requiem, part of the climactic scenes of the 1984 film “Amadeus.” Popular music includes Mussorgsky’s “Night on Bald Mountain,” the spooky music from Disney’s “Fantasia,” and Richard Strauss’ “Also Sprach Zarathustra,” the opening music used in Stanley Kuberick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey.”
Important soloists include superstar violinist (and fashionista) Sarah Chang, legendary Brazilian pianist Nelson Freire, and flamboyant organist Cameron Carpenter, the “Bad Boy of the Organ,” who designed and travels with his own custom instrument.
Flamboyant organist Cameron Carpenter, the “Bad Boy of the Organ,” performs with the Grand Rapids Symphony’s 2020-21 Classical Series. (Supplied)
Concert goers will experience a Sitar Concerto performed by a student of the great Indian sitarist Ravi Shankar, and the first major solo work for saxophone and orchestra that DeVos Hall has seen in 38 years.
A new series, “The Pianists,” will bring two artists who once were Gilmore Young Artists of the Gilmore Keyboard Festival in Kalamazoo and who now have flourishing careers.
New music includes the debut of “Immortal Beloved” by Grand Rapids’ own Alexander Miller, inspired by Beethoven’s written testament bidding farewell to the love of his life. The GRS also will premiere a new Double Concerto for Vibraphone and Marimba, one of five pieces of music that will feature soloists drawn from the ranks of the Grand Rapids Symphony’s accomplished musicians.
Season tickets went on sale Feb. 12. Season ticket holders will have the first chance to purchase tickets for the special event featuring Odom. Single tickets will be available at a later date. The 2020-21 Pops Series will be announced in March. The 2020 D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops Series was announced in January.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today that it is partnering again with the DTE Foundation for the Young Women in Science program, offered as an after-school program to Godfrey-Lee Public Schools and Grand Rapids Public Schools students.
During spring of 2020, middle school students will have a special opportunity to work with local women STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) professionals. During this after-school program, students will work with Hydrogen powered cars, solar and wind energy, electrochemistry, physics and engineering, and more. Young Women in Science is offered free to participants, and takes place during a six-week session at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, once again sponsored by the DTE Foundation.
“Thank you to the DTE Foundation for continuing to support the Museum’s efforts to share these opportunities with area students,” said Dale Robertson, President & CEO of the Grand Rapids Public Museum. “In these after-school programs, students experience science in a hands-on way, led by local female professionals. We are extremely thankful to the DTE Foundation for the role they are playing within the community.”
The program reinforces grade-level science standards and laboratory skills with an emphasis on renewable energy. A portion of the program focuses on reflection and dialogue to improve students’ attitudes toward science and engineering by strengthening self-confidence and introducing career possibilities. The program is especially beneficial for young female students who may not see themselves widely represented in STEM fields.
“The Young Women in Science program engages girls in middle school with STEM subjects at a crucial time in their educational journey. At the DTE Foundation we want to make sure that we keep these girls interested in an important field that can change their futures,” said Lynette Dowler, executive director and president of the DTE Foundation. “We’re proud to support the next generation of engineers, mathematicians and scientists.”
Participating schools include Lee Middle School (Godfrey-Lee Public Schools) and Grand Rapids University Prep Academy, Westwood Middle School, Alger Middle School, and Riverside Middle School (Grand Rapids Public Schools).
A new study of pre-menopausal and menopausal women has helped shed light on how every woman experiences menopause differently, and what treatments are most effective. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
Every woman experiences menopause in her own unique way with a variety of symptoms.
She may suffer from hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, weight gain, fatigue and a sense of not feeling right. Some of these symptoms may sound familiar to you—possibly all of them.
I’ve seen several patients recently who each complained of different issues related to menopause.
A woman I’ll call Peg had to stop wearing silk shirts to work because she sweat through each one. Another patient, Sue, became embarrassed in meetings because her face becomes very red when she makes presentations to her peers. Cindy felt depressed that even though everything in her life was great, she had a sadness she just couldn’t shake. And then there’s Gloria, who expressed frustration with weight gain she recently began experiencing.
The four women felt betrayed by their bodies.
Fortunately, I had some encouraging information to share with each of these patients, thanks to a comprehensive women’s health study called the SWAN study.
The Study of Women Across the Nation (SWAN) is an ongoing study that follows women between ages 42 and 52 in order to understand how they will experience the menopause transition. There are seven SWAN sites across the nation: Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, Newark, Pittsburgh and Oakland.
Each woman receives a physical exam that includes measuring her height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure and lab work levels. The study also records whether or not she smokes, how much alcohol she consumes, her education status and family history. Race/ethnicity is categorized as African American, non-Hispanic Caucasian, Chinese, Japanese or Hispanic.
The results of the SWAN study are interesting and have helped doctors understand why each woman’s menopause experience is unique.
For example, the study showed that women who became at higher risk for heart disease—increased cholesterol, belly fat and blood sugar levels—tended to fall in the following categories: Hispanic or Japanese, less physically active, less likely to be highly educated, and most had higher BMI and cholesterol levels before the study began. Pre-diabetes was found to be a very high risk factor across all ethnic groups.
Another study done in Pittsburgh evaluated Caucasian and African-American participants at risk of depression. Twenty percent to 30 percent of participating women had new onset depression between the ages of 42 and 52.
The women in the study had an average age of 46, and 31 percent were African American. In addition, 34 percent had a family history of depression. The women who had a family history of depression proved to be more likely to be highly educated and have experienced at least one episode of depression.
The SWAN study has also taught doctors so many other important facts about women in menopause:
Hot flashes are different for each woman.
Women of color experience hot flashes for the longest period of time (average of 10 years).
Women of Asian descent have hot flashes for the shortest period of time, but they suffer more with depression and irritability.
Hispanic women suffer from hot flashes an average of 8.9 years.
Caucasian women experience hot flashes an average of 6.5 years.
The earlier women start having hot flashes, the longer they last.
There are so many other fascinating findings that have occurred as a result of this ongoing study, but the bottom line is that women do not have to suffer the symptoms of menopause.
There is help for you and plenty of research to back up the findings. Strong, scientific research is being done to help us know what works best and determine the safest method for treating menopause symptoms.
I recommend being active, drinking plenty of water, maintaining a healthy weight, staying off the sugar, and being grateful in your life daily. These are simple but very powerful tools used to combat the symptoms of menopause.
In addition, there are FDA-approved hormones that may help those who need them. They are a safe option for many women.
If you think you may benefit from this type of treatment, ask your doctor, or come see us at the Spectrum Health Menopause offices. If we discover that hormones are not safe for you, there are many other options to try.
This is the Heyboer Centennial Farm located of 52nd Street just before the intersection of Breton Avenue in Kentwood. The farm is the last working farm within the city and serves as a reminder of the City of Kentwood’s rich agricultural history. The Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission continues to document the barns that once stood in Kentwood along with capturing the history of the city, which is now more than 50 years old.
For more on the Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission, click here. The photo was provided by Kentwood resident Gerald DeMaagd.
Do you have a photo you would like considered for Photo of the Week? Then send it to Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma at joanne@wktv.org.
Since 2010, the Centers for Disease Control predicted that the number of new cancer cases has increased 24 percent.
For those in the medical field, the reason for that increase varies from early detection to people living longer. Because of some of those reasons, many agree that cancer care has become subspecialized and getting the right care often means that some West Michigan residents have had to leave home to find it.
Dr. Peter Hahn, President and CEO of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health (WKTV)
However, three institutions — Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, Mercy Health, and Michigan Medicine (formerly the University of Michigan Health System) — are looking to change that with a new initiative launched at the beginning of 2020, the Cancer Network of West Michigan.
The Cancer Network is being designed to integrate cancer care services in West Michigan with the goal of bringing broader access to advanced, state-of-the-art, comprehensive diagnosis treatment and support across leading health care institutions.
“We are really bringing together the talents of three world class organizations and combining it with the world class expertise of Michigan medicine,” said Dr. Peter Hahn, CEO and President of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.
Dr. Kim Hyung, President of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s (WKTV)
Dr. Hyung Kim, president of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s, said the partnership is actually a natural extension of partnerships that already exist between the institutions. They Cancer Network of West Michigan will build on the foundation established by a radiation oncology collaborative already linking radiation oncology services between Michigan Medicine and Metro Health and between Michigan Medicine and Mercy Health.
Hyung said the question became “What can we do to take it to the next level. Especially in something like cancer care where there are more therapies and things are getting more complicated. Working together can make a big different in terms of what you can offer a community.”
Combined, the three West Michigan facilities treat 13,658 cancer patients a year. They bring to the collaboration a combined of 63 cancer specialists and sub-specialists, along with access to the latest research, treatments and clinical trails.
What does this mean for the average patient? Two or three years ago, a person with lung cancer only had one option, which was standard therapy such as chemotherapy, Hahn said. Today, there are so many different advances in terms of molecularity therapy that through the Cancer Network, the three partnering organizations will be able to offer that care in West Michigan versus a person having to travel to Ann Arbor or the Mayo Clinic, he said.
“We all know that people do better if they get excellent care close to home,” Hyung said.
For patients, the new Cancer Network will provide a more standardized cancer base-care with less variance. No matter which facility a patient goes to, they should receive the same treatment options.
Dr. Gary Allore, President of Mercy Health Muskegon (WKTV)
The initial announcement of the new initiative was received quite favorably by staff, acceding to the hospital officials. Currently, the three organizations are working to build the leadership team for the Cancer Network. There is a nationwide search for the person who will head the Network with the recruiting process for the specialists, who are in high demand, underway as well.
By having access to world class trials and advance therapies, Hahn said he believes the Cancer Network could help make West Michigan a destination for cancer care treatment.
“There is a lot of work to come, but we are all confident this could be a regional leading, potentially a national leader, in cancer care,” Hahn said.
To learn more about the Cancer Network of West Michigan, visit wmicancernetwork.org.
Social studies teacher Brent VanEnk has built the game with students over four years. (School News Network)
Wyoming: ‘You sneak them into learning
Discover how Wyoming Junior High School teacher Brent VanEnk sneaks students into learning with a virtual reality game he developed. In a Dungeons & Dragons-esque fashion, the game takes the students through the start of humanity and ends between 1400 – 1500. Want to play along? Well then click here for more.
Teacher Bryce Pulley with Paul Shannon, left, and Eire’hon Payton-Moore. (School News Network)
Kelloggsville: ‘Thinking about my world and deciding how to make it’
More Dungeons & Dragons coming as we head over to Kelloggsville Middle School where first-year teacher Bryce Pulley uses the software Inkarnate to help students learn more about geography. D&D players have used the software to create the intricate and detailed maps the game demands. How does Pulley use this software? Well X marks the spot to learn more.
Damone’t Johnson and Cacia Mitchell play their violas. (School News Network)
Kentwood: Musicians take on anything but classical
Just because they wear formal attire when entering into a concert venue does not mean East Kentwood High School’s Anything But Classical Orchestra is your typical musical performance group. In other words, be prepared to — at minimal toe tap and at maximum dance — along. Click here to read more.
For more stories on area schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
As part of its commitment to building stronger communities, the SpartanNash Foundation invites store guests to take part in its companywide fundraising effort to build a strong foundation and a path toward homeownership in partnership with Habitat for Humanity. The SpartanNash Foundation’s fundraising effort to secure shelter – one of the Foundation’s pillars – will run Feb. 12-23, supporting local Habitat for Humanity partners in eight states.
During the 12-day scan, store guests who visit any participating SpartanNash-owned retail store or fuel center will have the opportunity to donate $1, $5 or $10 or round up to the nearest dollar at the checkout register. Participating stores include Family Fare, D&W Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery, Family Fresh Market, Forest Hills Foods, Ada Fresh Market, ValuLand, SunMart, Supermercado Nuestra Familia, Econofoods, No Frills and Dillonvale IGA stores in eight states.
For a list of store locations participating in the companywide scan campaign and the local Habitat they are partnered with, visit:spartannash.com/foundation-scans.
Nearly 50 local Habitats will receive monetary support thanks to the scan to build stronger communities. One hundred percent of all funds raised during the Foundation scan campaign will go directly to local Habitats’ homebuilding initiatives. SpartanNash underwrites the costs to run the scan campaign, contributes funding and encourages associates to volunteer with local Habitat partners.
Since 2006, SpartanNash, its associates, the SpartanNash Foundation and generous store guests have raised and granted nearly $1.9 million to support local Habitats and hardworking homebuyers.
“The SpartanNash Foundation supports community nonprofit organizations that provide hunger relief, secure shelter and support our military heroes,” said Meredith Gremel, vice president of corporate affairs and communications and executive director of the SpartanNash Foundation. “Through our retail scan campaigns, we have developed many strong partnerships with local Habitats, and we are excited to join with our store guests, associates and Habitat partners to continue to build stronger communities in 2020.
“Habitat for Humanity builds much more than homes – and together, we can help local families build a strong foundation and a brighter future.”
Habitat for Humanity’s vision is to build a world where everyone has a decent place to live. The organization is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.
Habitat homebuyers invest 300-500 hours of sweat equity into homebuilding and mentorship classes, where they learn the responsibilities and criteria to maintain the Habitat home they purchase on a zero-percent interest rate.
In 2019, more than $1 million was granted through the SpartanNash Foundation’s companywide scan campaigns, benefitting local Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics, patriotic and food pantry partners’ initiatives to build stronger communities.
AIM also invites the public to run, walk or hand cycle your way through Grand Valley State University’s campus in Allendale this Saturday, April 4, for its Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser. (Supplied/AIM)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The local non-profit Alternatives in Motion — whose stated mission is to “enhance independence through access to mobility equipment” — recently announced a successful mobility device collection drive put on by one of AIM’s board members.
AIM will also be the benefactor of the Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser, held at Gran Valley State University’s Allendale campus in April. And it is not too early to sign up.
Throughout December 2019, AIM board member Leigh Chick hosted a Mobility Drive at Ionia Intermediate School District’s Freedom Acres School.
Throughout December 2019, AIM board member Leigh Chick hosted a Mobility Drive at Ionia Intermediate School District’s Freedom Acres School. (Supplied/AIM)
“I was inspired to host a mobility drive to support AIM because they have given so much to the students and families of Ionia County and directly to Freedom Acres School,” Chick said in supplied material. “I knew there were families and community members holding onto old equipment that their child had outgrown and they didn’t know what to do with it. I wanted to give them a place to pay it forward. I also wanted to spread the word about how amazing of an organization AIM is.”
Chick thanked several people for help with the drive, including Jim VanBeek of Triangle Construction, who loaned an enclosed trailer to house and collect the equipment in until it could be delivered to Alternatives in Motion’s warehouse, as well as, at the school, Principal Angela Miller, maintenance supervisor Jeff Duell, and Brenda Brown, the school’s physical therapist.
Wheels, run, walk, whatever — for a good cause
AIM also invites the public to run, walk or hand cycle your way through Grand Valley State University’s campus in Allendale this Saturday, April 4, for its Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser.
All proceeds go directly to support the organization, which aids in donating and refurbishing wheelchairs to individuals and families in need.
The event will take place at 1110 Kirkhof Center, 1 Campus Drive, on GVSU’s Allendale campus. In addition to the run, there will be raffles, prizes, music, snacks, drinks, and more. The cost is $25 per person with events starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m.
On Wednesday March 25, The Choir of St John’s College, Cambridge, UK will perform the inaugural concert of the Andrew Larson Memorial Concert Series. This biennial series will benefit the music and ministry of the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys.
Through the Andy Larson Memorial Fund, the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys will collaborate with some of the world’s finest sacred artists. These special biennial programs will honor the life of Andy Larson, a former GRCMB Head Chorister who died in 2018, in a car accident at the age of 14.
Founded in the 1670s, the Choir of St John’s College is one of the finest collegiate choirs in the world, known for its rich, warm and distinctive sound; expressive interpretations; and ability to sing in a variety of styles. Directed by Andrew Nethsingha, the Choir will bring its trademark ‘St John’s Sound’ to audiences across the Atlantic, performing in Atlanta, Chicago, Grand Rapids, Seattle and San Francisco. This will be the Choir’s first visit to the USA since 2016.
• Tickets: www.grcmb.org • Location: Basilica of St. Adalbert 654 Davis Ave. NW, Grand Rapids 49504 • Date & Time: Wednesday, March 25 7 p.m. • Seating: Open seating within three reserved tiers: $20 – $35 – $50 • Additional Information • Email receipt must be presented at the door – printed or digital NOTE: you should receive your email tickets immediately after purchase – please check your spam or junk mail folders if you do not see them. They are sent from the email address hello@givelively.org • Arrive early for best seating within each section • Concert programming will be listed on the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys website as soon as it is available. www.grcmb.org • Free Parking is available • Barrier-free and wheelchair accessible • Ticket proceeds benefit the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys
It’s not all in your genes. Research underscores the important role that lifestyle decisions play in shaping the trajectory of your brain health. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
Researchers looking to trace the genetics and risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease put out a call: Volunteers needed to take a short online memory test.
Celebrities such as Ashton Kutcher, Lynda Carter and Valerie Bertinelli spread the word on social media. Soon, thousands of people signed up to match word pairs on the MindCrowd test.
With more than 59,000 tests completed, the researchers at the Translational Genomics Research Institute in Arizona analyzed the results.
On average, adults 18 to 65 who had a family member with Alzheimer’s scored lower than those who did not.
The study suggests those who have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s because of family history may show changes in memory performance as early as their 20s, say the researchers.
More than 115,000 people have now taken the test, which is still online.
Researchers aim for a pool of 1 million participants, creating a set of data about how people without Alzheimer’s perform on the test, based on age, gender and various demographic and health factors.
Take results in context
The study, published in the journal eLife, may spark intriguing questions about who is at risk for the memory-impairing disease—but it is far from a diagnostic test, cautions Timothy Thoits, MD, the division chief of neurology with Spectrum Health Medical Group.
Thoits, a specialist in memory disorders, said neuropsychologists administer a number of tests to diagnose Alzheimer’s.
One test resembles the one used in the MindCrowd research. It asks participants to learn word pairs and then tests how well they can recall the missing half of each pair when one word is presented.
For example, a word pair may be “fan and vase.” When prompted with the word “fan,” the participant fills in the missing word, “vase.” (These words are not from the actual test.)
But someone undergoing testing for dementia would undergo many other tests—covering abilities such as attention, visual and spatial perception, judgment, processing, recall and retention.
Neuropsychologists’ testing also measures whether the patients are giving a good effort. This is crucial because depression, anxiety and other factors can affect whether people give it a full effort.
“Memory loss has to be taken in context—what’s going on in your life, what medications you are exposed to, any other medical illnesses,” Dr. Thoits said.
He encouraged anyone concerned with their results on the test—or memory issues in general—to talk first with a primary care doctor.
The researchers, in discussing the results of the study, stressed the value of a healthy lifestyle in helping to reduce the risk of dementia.
Neuropsychologists generally divide recommendations into three age groups, Dr. Thoits said.
Early life
Stay in school.
“People with a high education build up what we call cognitive reserve,” he said. “We think they can get along longer even though they may be having trouble, because of that high intelligence.
“For somebody with a lower cognitive reserve, minor deficits come to the forefront sooner.”
Midlife
Address health risk factors linked to an increased risk of dementia, including high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, smoking and hearing loss.
Although hearing loss gets little attention as a risk factor, research shows the link to be significant.
A recent study of more than 16,000 people in Taiwan found those diagnosed with hearing loss between 45 and 64 years of age were at higher risk of developing dementia in coming years. The findings suggest that hearing protection, screening and treatment might reduce that risk factor, the researchers say in the study published in JAMA Network Open.
Later life
Physical inactivity, social isolation, hypertension and depression all raise the risks of dementia for older adults.
Dr. Thoits encourages people to socialize and remain physically and mentally active. Suggestions include:
Take a lifelong learning course at a local college.
Do crossword puzzles and other fun games, including those offered free online at Games for the Brain.
Each day, get 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day—make it a heart rate-boosting, sweat-inducing session.
Lifelong
In general, Dr. Thoits advises paying attention to four areas of life: Stay active physically, mentally and socially and follow a Mediterranean diet, with its emphasis on fruits and vegetables, fish, legumes, poultry and whole grains.
He does not advise taking supplements that claim to prevent dementia.
“One multivitamin a day is all we recommend,” he said.
