The Salvation Army Kroc Center is holding its sixth-annual “Monster Mash” Halloween event on Friday, Oct. 26, from 5 to 7 p.m.
This free event will feature “trunk-or-treating” in the Kroc’s east parking lot, giving families a fun and safe alternative to trick-or-treating in their own neighborhoods. Multiple Kroc Center and other Salvation Army groups will be distributing candy and other information, along with other local businesses.
Last year’s Monster Mash attracted more than 2,000 people. In addition to the trunk-or-treating, concessions will be for sale (cash only, please), along with a Kroc members-only play area and other family activities. There is still time for businesses or community organizations to sign up; interested groups should contact Jon Shaner at jon_shaner@usc.salvationarmy.org before Monday, Oct. 22.
“Monster Mash is one of our biggest events of the year,” said Captain Bill Brutto, senior officer for The Salvation Army Kroc Center. “We love giving families the opportunity to enjoy time together in a fun and safe environment. I’m not sure who gets more excited, the kids or our staff!”
The event will be cancelled in the event of heavy rain or lightning. Visit GrKrocCenter.org or call 616-588-7200 for more information.
When Michele Clark managed an antique store in Brazil, she didn’t imagine that the American customer looking to furnish a restored country mansion would someday become her husband. Today, this transplanted Brazilian keeps one eye on the couple’s South American B&B and the other on their Lake Michigan gift shop. Join the conversation to learn about jeitinho brasileiro (the Brazilian art of wiggle room) and a unique form of grass that glows like gold and lasts for centuries.
The Michigan Public Health Practice-Based Research Network (MI-PBRN) presents its 2018 symposium at Western Michigan University’s Downtown Grand Rapids campus, 200 Ionia Avenue, Grand Rapids, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19.
The group’s fourth annual symposium is focused on the Michigan opioid prevention response, bringing together researchers, nonprofit administrators and policy makers to identify key aspects of Michigan’s opioid epidemic to develop collaborations to address Michigan’s opioid crisis.
“The opioid crisis is growing in Michigan. In our efforts to address the determinants of health, health inequity and health disparities, we are working to enhance our efforts to prevent opioid abuse,” said Dr. David Wingard, TrueNorth Community Services Director of Research and Strategic Development. “This year we are focusing this annual research symposium on opioid prevention by bringing in state and national experts to inform and guide our strategic efforts.”
Keynote speaker: Dr. Kimberly Johnson, former director of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
U.S. Congressman Fred Upton will host final session focused on the federal legislative impact on Michigan opioid response
Michigan Speaker of the House Tom Leonard (R-Dewitt)
Dr. Rob Lyerla, professor at Western Michigan University; former associate director of science at SAMHSA
Dr. Eden V. Wells, chief medical executive, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
Lisa Brennan – executive director, Western Regional Area Health Education Center, Western Michigan University
Dr. Ron Cisler – dean, College of Health and Human Services, Western Michigan University Complete list of participants is available on the agenda, attached.
"Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world."
-Malala Yousafzai, Pakistani activist and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate
‘Book’ on over
The new KDL Bookmobile was unveiled at a special event at Steelcase. The Steelcase Foundation helped to launch the project with a $208,000 grant.
This week the Kent District Library unveiled its new Bookmobile, or as KDL Executive Director Lance Werner called it, “a library on wheels.” The Bookmobile, loaded with books and materials, will be heading out to service underserved areas and places where there is not a library readily available.
The goal is to help improve reading proficiency with students, Werner said, adding that the target age is third grade as students who are not at a reading proficiency by third grade could face more problems as they get older. The bookmobile has a rotating collection that can be curated for the places it visits whether it be a school or a senior center.
The KDL Bookmobile is scheduled to come to the KDL Kelloggsville Branch, located at the Kelloggsville High School, 4787 Division Ave. on Nov. 17 and to the KDL Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, 4950 Breton Ave. SE, Nov. 24. For a list of locations, visit kdl.org/bookmobile.
Godwin Heights will face off against Wyoming Lee this Friday in hopes of getting its sixth win and securing a place in the playoffs. And of course, WKTV will be there to cover all the action.
The playoff schedules will be announced on Sunday, Oct. 21 with Pre-District games kicking off the following weekend. All games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
By the Meter
Ada Limon
Two award-winning poets will be heading to Grand Valley State University Thursday, Oct. 18, to discuss their work.
Part of GVSU’s Fall Arts Celebration, poets Ada Limón and Carl Phillips will begin the discussion at 7:30 p.m. at GVSU’s Eberdhard Center in downtown Grand Rapids. Limón is the author of five books of poetry, including her new book The Carrying (2018). Phillips is the author of 14 books of poetry, including his most recent works, Wild Is the Wind (2018) and Reconnaissance (2015).
The Spanish work for a person who teaches music, usually referring to a woman. (Maestro is the male word.) This month, St. Cecilia Music Center announced its new Grand Band conductor Robin Connell. For more, click here.
Don’t allow sexual issues sideline you from the pleasures of life. (For Spectrum Health Beat)
By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum Health Beat
Sexual health is a part of our overall health, and it impacts a woman’s (and a man’s) sense of self and feeling of being healthy.
Women who suffer from depression or anxiety are more likely to have sexual health concerns, and women with sexual health concerns are more likely to have depression and anxiety. It’s a vicious cycle—one that can be frustrating and difficult to break.
Chronic health issues or chronic health diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity or arthritis can interfere with a woman’s ability, or a couple’s ability, to have a healthy sexual relationship. And common conditions like pain with sex, low desire and relationship issues all play a part.
I recently saw a patient who came in for her second visit to our Spectrum Health Cancer, Menopause, and Sexual Health Clinic at the Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion.
She shared her excitement about once again being able to have sex after we treated her pain. She told me that cancer had taken so much away from her, but she felt whole again now that she could be intimate with her husband.
I love sharing stories like this because it shows how committed we are to helping everyone live better lives—including being as sexually aware and healthy as they wish to be.
I recently found the following quote from the World Health Organization:
“The purpose of sexual health should be the enhancement of life and personal relationships and not merely counseling and care related to STDs and preventing unwanted pregnancies. Sexual health should involve (1) the capacity to enjoy and control sexual and reproductive behavior in accordance with a social and personal ethic; (2) a freedom from fear, shame, guilt, false benefits and other psychological factors inhibiting sexual response and impairing sexual relationships; and (3) freedom from organic disorders, diseases and deficiencies that interfere with sexual and reproductive functions.”
I share this quote with you because, as a physician, I believe in what it says, and I try to keep it in mind when discussing sexual health with my patients.
There are many causes of sexual health concerns, and they can be grouped in the following categories: interpersonal issues, physical issues and psychological issues.
When discussing interpersonal issues, we think about lack of intimacy, lack of respect and emotional abuse.
Physical issues include pain with sex from menopause and dryness, pain from history of pain and/or tight pelvic muscles, and medical conditions such as diabetes or arthritis.
Psychological problems include depression or anxiety, history of sexual abuse and poor self image.
No matter what your sexual issues include, there are solutions. Reach out to your medical provider for help.
If you have concerns about how to get your groove back, make an appointment to specifically discuss this topic and options with your doctor or a Spectrum Health Midlife and Menopause Clinic expert. Call 616.267.8225 to make an appointment.
Did you know that 1 in 4 children have problems with their eyes? These problems can impact many parts of their lives from school performance to sports. Unfortunately, vision problems in children can often go undetected. A full eye exam performed by an eye doctor is the best way to find out if your child has any vision problems. They can even provide recommended treatment if needed. This full eye exam checks how well a child can see at a distance and near, how well both eyes work together and the general health of the eyes.
The American Optometric Association recommends eye exams starting between the age of 6 and 12 months and every 2 years after. Eye doctors trained in working with children will be able to find vision problems even before a child has learned to talk! It is never too early to have a complete eye exam. Making sure your child has healthy eyes is just one step in giving them a successful future.
The regular season of football completes its schedule the weekend of Oct. 19-20 and opens its playoffs the following weekend. WKTV will be at Godwin Heights as the Wolverines seek their sixth win of the season and a guaranteed spot in the playoffs.
The playoff schedules will be announced on Sunday, Oct. 21 with Pre-District games kicking off the following weekend. We plan to cover a local team in the first round of the playoffs if possible.
All games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and features on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.
Following is the end of this week’s schedule:
Monday, Oct. 15
Boys Soccer
Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee – MHSAA Districts
Grand River Prep @ Covenant Christian – MHSAA Districts
Kelloggsville @ South Christian – MHSAA Districts
East Kentwood @ Kalamazoo Central – MHSAA Districts
Grand Ledge @ Wyoming – MHSAA Districts
Girls Volleyball
West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian
Tuesday, Oct. 16
Boys Soccer
Potter’s House @ Calvin Christian – MHSAA Districts
Tri-Unity Christian @ Zion Christian – MHSAA Districts
TBD at South Christian – MHSAA Districts
Boys/Girls Cross Country
Wyoming @ Christian
South Christian @ Christian
Girls Swimming
South Christian @ Ottawa Hills
Girls Volleyball
South Christian @ Middleville T-K
Potter’s House @ West Michigan Aviation
Holland Calvary @ Grand River Prep
Zion Christian @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
Wednesday, Oct. 17
Boys Soccer
TBD at Caledonia – MHSAA Districts Division 1
Boys/Girls Cross Country
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Thursday, Oct. 18
Boys Soccer
TBD at South Christian – MHSAA Districts Division 3
TBD at Calvin Christian – MHSAA Districts Division 4
Girls Volleyball
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville
Christian @ Wyoming – Dig Pink Game
Boys/Girls Cross Country
East Kentwood at Riverside Park
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Calvary
Girls Swimming
East Kentwood @ West Ottawa
South Christian @ Wayland
Friday, Oct. 19
Boys/Girls Cross Country
Godwin Heights vs TBA at Downtown GR YMCA
Boys Football
Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights — WKTV Featured Game
Kelloggsville @ Hopkins
Rockford @ East Kentwood
East Grand Rapids @ Wyoming
Tri-Unity Christian @ Colon
South Christian vs FH Eastern at East Grand Rapids
Calvin Christian/Potter’s House at Belding
Boys Soccer
TBD at Midland – MHSAA Finals Division 1
TBD @ Hope College – MHSAA Finals Division 2
TBD @ Kalamazoo College – MHSAA Finals Division 4
Girls Golf
TBD @ Battle Creek Bedford Valley – MHSAA Finals Division 1
Join the artists of the Tanglefoot studios on the near West side as they celebrate the cultural legacy they’ve built throughout the years: a testament to the power of beauty, the necessity of art, and the importance of gathering community around you. This year marks the 27th annual open studio sale in the historic warehouse, making it the longest-running open studio event in the greater Grand Rapids area.
In a yellow brick warehouse on the near West Side, a former flytape factory has been taken over by some of the city’s most well-known working artists. Nearly 30 years ago, as spaces in the building began to be rented as studio space for artists, early artists like Elaine Dalcher, Michael Pfleghaar, and Nikki Wall decided to welcome the public into their working creative “homes” for an intimate, celebratory chance for friends and family to purchase artwork, right before the holiday gift-giving seasons began. That was just the start of what was to become one of the Grand Rapids art scene’s most important events of the year.
This fall, on Friday, Nov. 16 and Sunday, Nov. 18, artists will open their studios once again for the 27th Annual Tanglefoot Artists Open Studio event. Full of chances to meet accomplished local artists, sip a glass of cheer, and find just the right piece of art for yourself or a loved one, the yearly event is known for its hospitality and its variety of price points, allowing for all to support their local artists in meaningful ways.
The longest-running open studio event in the greater Grand Rapids area began in 1990, with artists Elaine Dalcher and Michael Pfleghaar opening their studios and inviting fellow artist Nikki Wall, who would soon be a resident artist at the Tanglefoot building herself, to join them. The event was so popular it became a yearly tradition.
Tanglefoot building (Credit: Tiffany Szakal)
“We Xeroxed the hand-drawn announcement, folded it in half and sent it out to our friends, families, colleagues and clients,” said Dalcher.
Nearly 300 people showed up that first year, and as word spread the event grew to welcome thousands upon thousands of art lovers over the years.
This year, the event promises to include some new surprises for regular attendees, as resident artists are welcoming in select guest artists to participate in the annual open studio event.
“It’s the truth: every year is special. Why? Because we consciously try to add new things to the show,” said Jason Villareal, long-time resident and participant in the fall event. This year, resident artists are inviting guest artists to join them in their space.
“We’ve had guest artists in the past but not this many. It’s a lot of new additional work to enjoy!” said Villareal
Visiting artists like Deborah Rockman, Holly Bechiri, and Sung Yi will help eight of the year-round residents fill room after spacious room within the rambling old warehouse with beauty.
Over the years, the annual celebration of artists and community has built a legacy for itself as a leading example of how to support local artists, creating an intimate and welcoming opportunity to build community. With artwork for sale, starting as little as $3, from some of the most well-established artists in the area, attendees may want to bring their pocketbook for a chance to support their local creatives while taking home quality work for themselves or for upcoming holiday gift needs.
Available for purchase will be paintings, prints, large-scale sculptures, greeting cards, and photo-based art. Just as important as the chance to purchase art, though, these artists recognize the importance of finding chances to reconnect with their community as the holidays approach.
“Winter’s settling in, and people are ready to be festive,” said Dalcher. “If people are interested in the community of artmaking and the process of artmaking in our community, then this is a place to come and see working studios, and get a chance to talk to the artists.”
”We also have a reputation for good snacks,” she said.
The event is open and free to the public Friday evening and Sunday afternoon.
Tanglefoot Artists Open Studio Event 2018
Show Dates and Times: Friday, Nov. 16,5-9pm Sunday, Nov. 18, Noon-5pm
Location: 314 Straight Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Kentwood will hold its drug take back day later this month. (WKTV)
By Kentwood Police Department
On Saturday, Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Kentwood Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration will give the public its 16th opportunity in 8 years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.
Bring your pills for disposal to the Kentwood Police Department at 4742 Walma Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49512. (The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles or sharps, only pills or patches.) The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health shows year after year that the majority of misused and abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including someone else’s medication being stolen from the home medicine cabinet.
In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines — flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash — both pose potential safety and health hazards.
According to the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.2 million Americans misused controlled prescription drugs. The study shows that a majority of abused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.
The last Drug Take Back Day brought in nearly 1 million pounds of unused or expired prescription medication. According to the DEA, this is the largest amount collected since the national program began in 2010.
The total amount of prescription drugs collected by DEA since the program’s inception is 4,982 tons.
For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the Oct. 27 Take Back Day event, please contact Vicki Highland at highlandv@kentwood.us or 616-656-6571.
More information about National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is available at takebackday.dea.gov.
Caregiving for a loved one with dementia is a difficult job. Depending on the progression of the disease, the simplest tasks can often seem impossible — taking a shower, picking up a few items from the grocery story, keeping a hair appointment. Asking for help from family and friends seems like too much and accepting offers of help can feel overwhelming, ‘Where would I start?,’ we think.
The Many Hands program helps caregivers access the support networks they may not realize they already have.
A majority of family caregivers, 60% according to the AARP, still work outside of the home.
Stephanie Hecksel, Outreach Specialist at Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan observes, “It is common to see caregivers helping out with household chores, errands, and transportation for a loved one while trying to balance time with their own personal responsibilities.”
As their loved one’s needs increase, the caregiver puts their personal responsibilities aside to dedicate themselves to the needs their loved one. This leads to increased stress and/or burnout, can take a toll on other relationships and even affect one’s employment. This is where Many Hands comes in. With the help of a Licensed Social Worker, participants in the Many Hands program receive help with organizing their friends, other family members, neighbors, church members, co-workers into a network of willing helpers and to restore some balance to their own lives.
Asking people for help is difficult, too difficult for many of us to pick up a phone and reach out to a friend, or accept the help extended by people in our community.
Hecksel acknowledges, “It can be difficult to ask for help for many reasons, including feelings of inadequacy as a caregiver or simply feeling overwhelmed by having to reach out for support and how to accept help it without feeling like a bother. Likewise, the people in our lives who would like to help are not sure how to go about it, what they can do or what needs to be done.
One of the most unique aspects of Many Hands is that you don’t have to be the one to ask for help.
Julie Alicki, LMSW and Certified Advance Dementia Practitioner, said, “Many Hands takes the pressure off of you by having a trained Social Worker handle the entire meeting. As a caregiver you attend, but we do the explaining.” Hecksel agrees, “Rather than the caregiver being expected to take on yet another responsibility of coordinating care, Many Hands will provide that assistance.”
All the caregiver needs to do is come up with a list of people in their current social circle who may be willing to help provide support with tasks such as laundry, yard work, meal preparation or spending time with a loved one to give the caregiver a rest and time for themselves.
How does it work? The caregiver makes a list of potential helpers. When the Social Worker receives this list, they will send invites and organize a Caregiver Support meeting.
At the meeting, the social worker will educate participants on dementia along with behaviors that may be present with the disease. They will also go over the effects of stress on the health of the caregiver, present the tasks identified by the primary caregiver and ask for support in these areas. Once a list of helpers is established, the Social Worker will prepare the Caregiver Calendar used to organize and communicate with helpers. “Many hands make light work” and this is the goal of the Many Hands program.
Many Hands is free and available to caregivers in Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Osceola counties. To learn more about this program, contact Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at (888) 456-5664 or email aaainfo@aaawm.org. More information about all the services available through AAAWM can be found at www.aaawm.org.
Photo courtesy Michigan State University Extension
By Sara Keinath, Michigan State University Extension
As young people prepare for their future careers, it is advantageous for them to gain experience and confidence in a few key skills. Teamwork is often cited as one of the crucial skills that employers look for during an interview. The ability to work in teams is often rated as an essential skill for both employers and higher education. Michigan State University Extension recommends understanding what teamwork is, as well as looking at how to build your skills in this area while still in high school.
The ability to work well on a team involves interacting and communicating with others, understanding goals and priorities, and being able to contribute to the greater good. These skills can be demonstrated through respect for others, as well as being reliable and competent. There are many places teamwork is used in a workplace. Often, a project requires multiple skills to successfully complete it, a job requires working with different people on a daily basis, or management can see the benefits of a team approach. No matter what kind of job or career a young person hopes to pursue, employers are interested in candidates who can exhibit the ability to work well with others.
There are many ways teenagers can build teamwork skills while in high school:
Join a club. Many extracurricular activities such as 4-H, sports or band provide youth with many opportunities to work as part of a team.
Organize or join a community service project. This is a great place to practice leadership as well as teamwork in a setting similar to a work environment while doing something good for the community at the same time!
Collaborate with peers or community members on school projects, fundraising targets or civic issues. Pay attention to the skills needed to accomplish the task, as well as the outcomes when a team works together for a common goal.
Teens should document teamwork skills on a résumé. Whether or not the experience was in a work environment, these skills can be very appealing to potential employers, and including them may offer an opportunity to provide more detail about teamwork experiences in an interview. Sample résumés and related activities can be found on the Michigan 4-H website.
Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives.
St. Cecilia Music Center’s School of Music youth jazz program performance with Robin Connell conducting, from 2017. (Supplied/St. Cecilia Music Center)
Robin Connell, who wears many hats on the Grand Rapids music scene including director of the St. Cecilia Music Center’s youth jazz ensemble, has picked up another gig at St. Cecilia.
Connell was announced last month as the new conductor of the center’s adult Grand Band, and there is general agreement that means more “fun” for all.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled that Robin is conducting the St. Cecilia Music Center Grand Band,” Martha Cudipp Bundra, St. Cecilia education director, said to WKTV. “She has been teaching our Jazz Combo program for 4 years now and the students love her. Robin has extensive teaching experience and knowledge that will enhance the musical experience for our adult band members. She brings a unique style to her teaching and a great sense of fun.”
Rehearsals of the Grand Band have begun for the new season but new members are always welcome to inquire and no auditions are required. The band rehearses 9:30-11:30 a.m. Monday mornings.
“The adult band is so much fun,” Connell said to WKTV. “It has a lot of members who have been it for many years. But newbies come, too.”
For more information on the Grand Band for adults, visit here. St. Cecilia’s youth jazz ensembles, one of which Connell leads, will hold auditions on Tuesday, Oct. 16. For more information visit here.
St. Cecilia, Connell have history
“I’m thrilled and honored to be working at SCMC,” Connell said. “The various concerts and education programs offered are phenomenal and integral to downtown Grand Rapids.
Robin Connell
“We really appreciate SCMC hosting the youth jazz program (which started in 2014) and the amazing support we get financially and administratively. … Martha is great to work with as the director of education, but I also need to sing the praises of our administrative assistant, Rebecca Steinke. She assists Martha in various ways with all the ensembles and is there at night when we rehearse, too. And she plays flute in the Grand Band!”
Connell, according to a supplied biography, is a jazz pianist-vocalist with a doctorate of arts in music theory and composition from the University of Northern Colorado. Her career as a performing musician, composer, and educator, is an alternating kaleidoscope of jazz and classical endeavors.
Her educator credits include teaching at Aquinas College, Grand Rapids Community College, Long Island University, Garden City Community College, the Interlochen Center for the Arts (20 summers), the Aquinas Jazz Camp, and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp.
In addition to teaching, Robin continues to lead her own jazz groups and perform as a “side woman” locally and afar, traveling extensively as performer, guest composer-conductor, and clinician/adjudicator. Since 2014, Robin also co-produces and hosts the “Jazz in the Sanctuary” concert series at Grand Rapids’ Fountain Street Church.
Two bands, two different experiences
As far as her expanding teaching load at St. Cecilia, Connell says there are similarities but also unique aspects to working with adults as opposed to youth.
“There is very little similarity between the youth jazz combo and the Grand Band adults, other than everyone’s shared love of playing music,” she said. “Most jazz band scores that are playable by younger students have simpler instrumentation than concert band music … My husband (Paul Brewer) directs the youth jazz big band. There is a bit more similarity between that band and a concert band in that all the music is written out, with very little improvised.
The St. Cecilia Grand Band in rehearsal at the music center’s Royce Auditorium, from 2016. (WKTV)
“The concert band music is completely written out and players must adhere to the written notes. The conductor’s job is to become immersed in the score, to internalize it, and ‘coach’ the ensemble as per the conductor’s interpretation.”
But Connell said she is getting into working with the adults.
“I am enjoying digging into completely different repertoire and having the chance to work on my conducting skills more,” she said. “There are also a lot of women in the band whereas the youth bands are almost all boys. I’m totally used to being the only woman, or in the minority, but I’m really also enjoying rehearsing a group with a lot of women — and men — who are totally geeked about instrumental music.”
Shameless plug for a great music series
The “Jazz in the Sanctuary” series begins its fifth season Nov. 4 with “Paul Brewer & Altin Sencalar in Tribute to J & K”, a concert featuring a jazz quintet, led by trombonists Brewer and Sencalar, performing the compositions and arrangements of J.J. Johnson & Kai Winding. More dates are scheduled in 2019. For more information visit fountainstreet.org/jazz.
Craig Hoekstra has the opportunity to lead major investment in the district where he grew up, serving generations of Wolves to come.
It’s a job the new superintendent embraces.
Hoekstra, who began the position July 1, will be involved in planning the $40 million Wyoming High School renovation and addition from concept to fruition. Funding for the project comes from the bond proposal, which passed last November, a huge victory for the more than 4,000-student district after bond requests failed twice in previous years. He replaces longtime Superintendent Thomas Reeder.
While construction on the renovation, which includes a two-story, 30-classroom addition, won’t begin until next summer, Hoekstra is eyeing the future with optimism.
“It’s phenomenal,” he said. “There’s a lot of excitement and thankfulness because the community supported the bond. Now it’s our responsibility to be thoughtful, forward-thinking and do our research and homework.
“It’s our opportunity to significantly impact Wyoming Public Schools well into the future.”
Wyoming native and former assistant superintendent Craig Hoekstra started as Wyoming Public Schools superintendent July 1
‘Maximize Each and Every Opportunity’
Hoekstra is a familiar face in Wyoming, beginning with his student days.
He graduated in 1990 from the former Wyoming Park High School and worked as a district custodian for six years. He was Oriole Park Elementary School principal for two years and Gladiola Elementary principal for three, when he also worked as state and federal grants director. He also taught second grade at Hamilton Elementary School and served as a principal there for three years.
He reflected on his path to becoming an educator who now heads an entire district.
It began when Hoekstra decided to pursue an education degree after working as a linen and uniform delivery driver.
“As a student, I enjoyed school, but wished that I would have applied myself more,” he admitted. “In becoming an educator as a non-traditional student, a driving force for me was to assist and encourage students to maximize each and every opportunity in front of them. One of my goals is to instill in them hope and provide support that they can do anything in life they set their mind to.”
Hoekstra is a prime example of how goal-setting and working hard can pay off.
“My whole motto is: dream big, work hard and make it happen. Things are always going to be challenges in front of us, but with perseverance, support and that ‘never give up’ attitude, anything is possible.”
Along with planning bond projects to take shape in the district over the next seven years, Hoekstra is working with teachers and teams of instructional coaches in math, science, reading and English as a Second Language to best serve students with effective teaching strategies.
Gladiola Elementary School second-graders Brooklynn Weenum, left, and Sophia Dykstra show Superintendent Craig Hoekstra a dance game after school
The Power of Being Present
A superintendent’s most important role, he said, “would be ensuring the safety of students and empowering kids to achieve goals that they don’t realize are attainable at every development level, with us and beyond us.”
Another goal of Hoekstra’s is to make people feel heard and appreciated. He said he has learned a lot from young people over the years, and one of the biggest lessons has been to be present.
“As busy as people are, we need to be in the moment, celebrate the moment, make the most of every moment,” he said. “What I have learned from working with students and people in general is that when you are with them they are the most important person at that time. If we are distracted, that opportunity we have with them might be lost. If people feel like they are truly cared about and supported, that’s where strong relationships not only start but are maintained over time.”
Whether planning for updated buildings or putting a laser-like focus on curriculum, Hoekstra doesn’t take the job of heading the Wolf Pack lightly.
“To be an educator is an absolute privilege, to not only touch the minds of youths, but also their hearts,” he said.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
It’s that time of year again, when a cold or other bug could leave you wondering whether your kiddo should go to school or not. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
By Alyssa Allen, Spectrum Health Beat
They are scenes every parent knows well during the school year:
You’re awakened in the middle of the night by the distinct sound of vomiting.
Your child walks into the kitchen one morning complaining of a sore throat and fever.
Your child doesn’t want to eat his breakfast because his tummy hurts.
It’s not always easy to choose between sending your child to school and keeping him home. As it turns out, even those with a medical degree will tell you it’s not an exact science.
Dr. Bush said the American Academy of Pediatrics and most pediatric offices provide guidelines to help parents determine if their child should be seen by a doctor, but there’s not necessarily anything to help them choose between a school day and a sick day.
“It’s complicated,” Dr. Bush said. “If this was really easy, then someone would have written a book that says, ‘If you have X, then you should do Y.’
“Every family is in a different situation,” he said. “We all know families who send their kids to school with lots of illnesses. And then there are families on the other side that will, with the mildest symptoms, keep their child home from school and say they have to be completely well before they return.”
Parents should also check with their school district to see what guidelines are in place for such cases. Some schools have more specific parameters than others.
Dr. Bush has some tips for parents choosing between a sick day and a school day:
Fever: What’s considered a fever? For school-aged children, generally 101 degrees or higher is a fever. Keep your child home until he is fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine. “While it does depend on what the fever is associated with, it’s a good rule of thumb to stay home for another 24 hours to give your child time to be better prepared to go back to school, but also to spread fewer germs to the other kids,” Dr. Bush said.
Strep throat: If your child has tested positive for strep throat, keep him home until he has been taking antibiotics for 24 hours.
Vomiting: Your child needs to stay home until at least 24 hours has passed since he last vomited.
Runny nose and cough: If a child’s coughing is disrupting class or keeping him and the other kids from concentrating, he should stay home and see a doctor to determine the cause. Dr. Bush offers a great tip: Ask if your child can actually learn anything based on how he’s feeling. A child with mild symptoms—a stuffy nose with clear discharge, or a mild cough—is likely able to go to school.
Head lice: Any child with active lice needs to stay home and be treated. But, Dr. Bush said, many schools have revised their rules to modify the nit-free policy. Check with your school.
Pink eye: A child with a diagnosed bacterial eye infection needs to stay home until he has been treated with anti-bacterial eye drops for 24 hours. Dr. Bush said the vast majority of eye infections are viral, not bacterial, and therefore do not require eye drops. Children with viral eye infections producing some discoloration and a small amount of clear drainage should be fine to attend school. A doctor can help determine what kind of infection your child has.
Dr. Bush urged parents to use their pediatrician’s office as a resource when their child is sick.
“Most doctors’ offices are well equipped to have parents call and talk to the nursing staff to make triage decisions,” he said. “If you have kept your child home from school and are not sure what the next day is going to bring, call your doctor’s office. We expect those calls and we expect to talk to a lot more families than we see in a day.”
Public policy and its impact on the Great Lakes is on the agenda for Central Michigan University’s fifth annual Great Lakes Science in Action Symposium on Friday, Oct. 19. There also will be a discussion on training the next generation of Great Lakes scientists.
The symposium will be from 9 a.m. to noon in the auditorium of CMU’s Biosciences Building, beginning with an introduction from CMU President Robert Davies. The event is free and open to the public. A copy of the agenda is available here.
U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint Township, is the keynote speaker for the symposium, which is hosted by CMU’s Institute for Great Lakes Research. Kildee is an alum of Central Michigan University and a lifelong Michigander, born and raised in the Flint area, where he resides.
Rep. Kildee will be available to meet with media immediately after his 9 a.m. keynote address. If you are with the media and will attend, please contact University Communications at news@cmich.edu or 989-774-3197.
He has built a reputation for protecting the Great Lakes and currently is leading a bipartisan initiative to prevent a Canadian company from permanently burying nuclear waste less than a mile from the Great Lakes.
Kildee is the ranking member of the Financial Services Committee and serves on the subcommittees for Housing and Insurance, Monetary Policy and Trade, and Trade and Illicit Financing. He is vice co-chair of the Automotive Caucus, where he works to promote the American auto industry, and he previously served as a member of the President’s Export Council, advising former President Barack Obama on trade deals concerning Michigan.
Panelists slated for the discussions on public policy include legislative aides for Kildee, U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Midland, and U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Michigan. Panelists for training Great Lakes scientists will be subject experts from the IGLR and CMU departments of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Geography and Environmental Studies, Biology and the Earth and Ecosystem Science doctoral program.
CMU is a recognized leader in studying the Great Lakes. The Institute for Great Lakes Research — with 30 faculty members — is supported by state-of-the-art facilities in Mount Pleasant and at the CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island. Central is overseeing its second $10 million EPA grant since 2010 to conduct Great Lakes wetlands research and allocates funds through this grant to nine other universities and three governmental agencies.
Officials at the ground break ing for the new Kids’ Food Basket headquarters.
By WKTV Staff
Kids’ Food Basket hosted an official naming ceremony and groundbreaking on Wednesday, Oct. 11, officially kick off the construction of the new organization’s home at the former Pickerd Farm, 1919 Leonard St. NE. Founding CEO, Bridget Clark Whitney welcomed more than 100 guests, including community leaders Hank Meijer, Executive Chairman Meijer and Honorary Co-Chair; Joe Jones, 2nd Ward Commissioner City of Grand Rapids and Campaign Cabinet Member; and Dave Hildenbrand, Senator – State of Michigan.
To mark the occasion, the organization unveiled the farm name, Kids’ Food Basket Farm Strengthened by Nutrilite Exclusively by Amway. The name was selected in honor of Nutrilite’s monetary support, volunteer support, and shared methodologies on the farm. A portion of the acreage on the future Kids’ Food Basket site is used to educate youth and adults alike on the immense value of nutrition through innovative programs and experiential learning.
“We are so thankful for the dedication of our community! The Kids’ Food Basket future home will meet both an immediate need and make long term impact. This beautiful, centennial farm has provided a space, in the middle of Grand Rapids, to launch an urban farming and experiential learning program. Here we can put down our roots and directly connect kids experiencing hunger to a greater understanding of healthy food, helping them create healthy habits life-long.,” said Clark Whitney.
A rendering of the proposed Kids’ Food Basket headquarters to be located at 1919 Leonard St. NE.
In the second year working on the chemical-free, sustainable farm, the harvest has yielded more than 10,000 pounds of fresh sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, string beans, tomatillos, and mini bell peppers. In addition, the farm has allowed the opportunity to welcome more than 40 groups, totaling approximately 1,000 youth and adult volunteers. The community has engaged in and learned about food production, tending to crops and preparing produce to go in Sack Suppers.
“We couldn’t be more excited about our partnership with Kids’ Food Basket and this new urban farm,” said Michelle Meulendyk of Amway Community Relations. “It has been and will continue to be a way for us to extend the expertise of our Nutrilite farming practices and staff right here in Grand Rapids.”
In addition to the farm, the site will be the home to a new Kids’ Food Basket production facility. Orion Construction will build a 27,000 square foot, two-story building that will house corporate office space and warehouse space on 15-acre site. The building will be constructed using the LEED (Leadership in Engineering and Environmental Design) framework and upon completion, will be LEED certified. Within the design are elements such as natural light maximization, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, caulks, adhesives, and floor coverings, alternative vehicle considerations, and several other features that provide elements of sustainability. Additional greenhouses and farm-support structures are included in the projects that create on-site learning opportunities.
“Kids’ Food Basket’s future location will allow for expanded nutritional programming and increased access to healthy nourishing food for our community’s children. We’re thankful for the communities continued dedication. We must do more. We are asking our community to rally together and join Kids’ Food Basket’s mission of nourishing kids so they can be their best in school and in life,” Whitney said.
Kids’ Food Basket services in a number of schools in the Greater Grand Rapids area including schools in the Kentwood, Godfrey-Lee, Godwin Heights and Wyoming Public School Districts.
On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus, guest host Keith St. Clair talks with Kentwood resident and bicyclist Ken Smith, who recently completed a 3,500-plus coast-to-coast trip to raise funds for his grandson, Jakob, and awareness of all persons with neurological damage.
Smith, 70, biked from the Pacific Ocean at Seaside, Oregon, to the Atlantic Ocean near Boston, Massachusetts, in hopes of raising funds to provide for possible care of and therapy for Jakob. WKTV has been proud to cover his journey.
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. But all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.
For many youth, getting a car can be an exciting major milestone. Car insurance needs to be a part of that education and milestone as well. It is important to have car insurance to protect your assets, satisfy lenders and comply with state laws that require auto insurance.
Take time to get three quotes. While this takes time, each insurer rates risk differently, so it is important to find out what they will charge you based on your circumstances.
Find out if your employer or any organizations you belong to offer discounts for insurance. Sometimes large organizations offer insurance plan discounts for their members. Insurance companies may also provide discounts or deals for students, good driving records or bundling of services. It might also make more sense for youth to be added to a parent’s insurance, if possible, because of the higher rates for insurance for teen drivers. The insurance company will often view the youth driver as less risky with the oversight from parents or guardians as opposed to the youth getting insurance on their own. (If added to a parent or guardian’s insurance, know that it will raise the premiums for those adults as well.)
Know what type of coverage you need, how much you can afford monthly, how often you need to pay your premium (and if you can meet that requirement), what deductible you can afford and the reputation or credibility of the insurance company.
Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives.
Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).
Darling, dynamic Dave is all the rave, a stunning (yet ravenous) fella who showed up at the house of one of our cat magnets in late July 2018, making himself quite at home on the front porch, following her indoor cats from window to window, trying to convince the home owner to let him in. Because she was unsure of his health status, she first took him in to her vet (very smart on her part) to have him tested, dewormed and given flea control, but much to her dismay, this friendly fella came up positive for Feline Leukemia.
Sadly, the family had been prepared to take him in and make him part of their own furry fold, but Dave’s viral status forced them to look for alternative placement; that is where we came in. On Aug. 13, we opened our doors and hearts to this fabulous four-year-old feline (born in late 2014).
Dave needed a bit of a medical work-up–he had a nasty ear mite infection, an abraded foot pad, greasy stud-tail (he was intact), enlarged lymph nodes and a formerly fractured toe on his right rear foot. To top it off, he also had roundworms, giardia and lungworms. And shortly after he arrived at our sanctuary he broke out with calici virus which caused him to spike terribly high temps and develop painful tongue ulcers.
But in spite of it all, Dave never once complained, always cuddled, and took his meds like a the champ that he is; his true personality and spirit could not be dampened, as he showed us what a sweet, silly and playful boy he is, the purrfect mix of laid-back and inquisitive.
This beautiful boy proved to be one of those cats that will follow you around, not to bother you or beg for attention, but rather simply to see what you are up to. He is quite fond of nap time but will wake up in a hurry if a human enters the room and wants some snuggle time, though he waits patiently on his perch or in his cat cubby for his person to walk on over and rub his belly, an activity he will happily engage in until your hand falls asleep. He loves, loves, LOVES his canned food but it is pleasing people that satisfies him and fills him with contentment.
This awesome cat will thrive in pretty much any stimulating home environment, and we feel that he would also like to have another of the feline kind around; ideally finding him a home with another cat with FELV would be the best, but there are vaccines that offer protection against viral transmission that can be given to non-infected cats.
Dave is just too spectacular of a cat to pass on by—so don’t even try! Come meet him, pick him up in your arms and discover why we are all completely enamored by this cool cat.
More about Dave:
Large
Domestic Short Hair — Tabby (Brown/chocolate)
Adult
Male
House-trained
Vaccinations up to date
Neutered
Not declawed
FELV-positive
Good in a home with other cats; children
Want to adopt Dave? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.
Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!
Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.
Kent County Land for planned Sustainable Business Park, aerial shot that includes the property adjacent to the landfill, with the landfill in the background. (Supplied/Kent County)
By Kent County
In an effort to provide opportunity for partnerships and innovative approaches to managing waste, the Kent County Board of Public Works last week approved the Sustainable Business Park Master Plan for 250 acres adjacent to the South Kent Land ll in Byron Center.
The Sustainable Business Park Master Plan was created by local and national experts over the course of 12 months and includes details on the necessary improvements, costs, funding sources and implementation schedule for the project.
“We set a bold goal of diverting 90 percent of trash from the South Kent Land ll by 2030, and building a Sustainable Business Park is essential to reaching that goal,” said Dar Baas, Director of the Kent County Department of Public Works (DPW). “With the approval of the Master Plan we have a roadmap for how organizations, businesses, technology developers, startups and non-profits can help us make progress toward our economic and environmental goals and advance our vision for a Circular Economy.”
The Master Plan includes recommendations for how Kent County can transition from a reliance upon disposal of trash in landfills towards a sustainable materials management system where waste materials are either reused in new processes or products or used in the production of energy.
Building a Sustainable Business Park is part of the Kent County DPW’s solution to decreasing the growing amount of solid waste buried in Kent County’s South Kent Land ll. Kent County DPW processes over 1 billion pounds of waste each year at its facilities and estimates 75 percent of that waste could be reused, recycled or converted. Currently, only 6 to 8 percent of waste is recycled.
“The Sustainable Business Park is a step in the right direction to finding alternatives to landfilling waste,” said Ted Vonk, chair of the Board of Public Works. “By approving this Master Plan we are proving Kent County to be a national leader in implementing a practical, innovative approach to managing our waste while creating jobs in our region.”
For more information about the Sustainable Business Park and to download the completed plan, visit www.reimaginetrash.org.
For Karl Bloss, switching from a gas to an electric car was a fairly straightforward decision.
“My employer at the time had workplace changing and that got me interested, so I looked into how much it cost and developed a worksheet that said I could live with this,” said Bloss who is an engineer and owns two electric cars, a Tesla and a Nissan LEAF. “I started out with a used Nissan LEAF that had about forty miles of range. I had a 10-mile commute so it worked out pretty well. I figured even with a little bit less efficiency in the wintertime and having to run some extra errands after work, it would be just fine and that is exactly what happened.”
Tyler Burke, who owns a Nissan LEAF and helped organize a recent National Drive Electric Week event, said for most people, when choosing a car, efficiency is not the first thing they think of.
Charge stations showing on the Plugshare.com.
“Is it environmentally friendly is an after thought,” Burke said. “It is the total cost of ownership is what most people find attractive when it comes to electric vehicles or EVs.”
Total cost is relatively low considering maintenance on the vehicles is minimum with windshield wipers and batteries for the key fabs needing to be replaced as there is no tune ups, oil changes, or belts to replace. Bloss noted during ownership, a person may have to replace tires or have the air conditioner worked on but items like the brakes have regenerative breaking, which reduces the need for a driver to hit the brake petal and thus save on repairs.
However the biggest saving, said several who own electric cars, is the gas costs.
“Well you can figure you can spend about three cents per mile and I know our minivan was about 14 cents per mile,” Bloss said. “If you drive about a 1,000 miles in a month, you are looking at your power bill going up about $30.”
“For a majority of my career was commuting from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids and I spent nearly $500 a month on gas alone for those trips,” said Gray Vreeland. “Transitioning to an electric its about 60 cents for me to charge it at night for my new commute so that is quite a bit of savings.”
As for finding charging stations, it is not as difficult as you might think with Bloss saying most people are muggles from the Harry Potter world when seeing them.
“if you don’t know that they are there, you would never realize it. But there are charging stations just about everywhere,” Bloss said.
Tesla has supercharging stations and a number of other companies have also started to put stations in. Websites, like plugshare.com, shows where many of the stations are located and any mapping service on a smartphone will also help to locate charging stations.
As for range, a 2018 Nissan LEAF has about 150 miles and a Tesla, depending on model, can have a range of 300 miles. Gas cars range do not exceed 400 miles.
Bloss noted that about every major car company either offers an electric car or are working on an electrification program.
Drug violence forced Erick Picardo to leave his successful art studio in the Dominican Republic and seek a better life in a “freedom country,” the United States. Today, this renowned Michigan painter celebrates his Afro-Caribbean heritage on canvas and in his drumming group. Listen as he talks about his special anti-violence, pro-peace marathon mural project.
"In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. And, if they don't have the first, the other two will kill you."
~ Warren Buffet
From California to Kentwood — new company, new jobs move in
The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of Kentwood, announced that Arcanum Alloys will be relocating from Silicon Valley to the City of Kentwood. This will result in the creation of 25 new high-tech jobs and a capital investment of $693,000.
The company produces 20-ton coils for some of the world’s most well-known manufacturing companies. Arcanum Alloys chose West Michigan over other competing locations to be closer to its production partner, suppliers and manufacturing customers. This location will function as both a new headquarters and R&D center. The company will be locating at 4460 44th St. SE, Kentwood. Read more here.
Kent ISD names new director of Special Ed program
Paul Dymowski was enthusiastic when asked about being chosen as director of the center-based Special Education program that is transferring to Kent ISD from Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS). “It’s a really exciting opportunity to build off the work Grand Rapids has already done,” he said after he was named to the new job on Wednesday, Oct. 3.
Dymowski, who currently serves as transition coordinator, part of the Special Education Department at Kent ISD, was chosen from a field of 28 applicants, according to Superintendent Ron Caniff, who announced the appointment. Read more here.
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Local fast food restaurant goes all high-tech
The McDonald’s restaurant at 6095 Kalamazoo Ave. SE in Gaines Township is inviting guests to experience McDonald’s in a new way with a greater level of choice, engagement and service.
The restaurant, which is located near East Kentwood High School and the Kalamazoo Avenue exit off of M-6, recently underwent extensive renovations and upgrades both inside and outside. These renovations include new self-order kiosks, table service, updated ways to pay and a redesigned seating area. Read about it here.
Fun Fact:
After Subway (about 43,000) and McDonalds (37,000), Starbucks has the third most locations in America (29,000).
The new self-order kiosks are just one of the new additions at the renovated McDonald’s.
The McDonald’s restaurant at 6095 Kalamazoo Ave. SE in Gaines Township is inviting guests to experience McDonald’s in a new way with a greater level of choice, engagement and service. These changes are reflective of a new and innovative restaurant model that has been successfully rolled around the world and puts more choice and control in the hands of guests by evolving how they order, what they order, how they pay and how they are served.
The restaurant, which is located near East Kentwood High School and the Kalamazoo Avenue exit off of M-6, recently underwent extensive renovations and upgrades both inside and outside. These renovations include new self-order kiosks, table service, updated ways to pay and a redesigned seating area.
“We’re excited to share this evolved experience at McDonald’s with our customers,” said Carl Wiseman, McDonald’s owner/operator. “We appreciate and value our guests’ feedback on this new experience, and we’re looking forward to offering them a new way to dine at McDonald’s.”
A sneak peek inside the renovated McDonald’s on Kalamazoo Avenue.
For those looking to order at their own pace, the Gaines Township McDonald’s has new digital self-order kiosks which make ordering and paying for a meal easy. Kiosks empower guests to browse the menu, find new options and tailor their meal just the way they want. Guests’ orders are delivered to tables by McDonald’s crew members, allowing customers to relax and enjoy a more custom dining experience. The restaurant features mobile order and pay, which allows customers to order and pay through the McDonald’s app and then either pick up their order inside or have it brought out to their vehicle when they arrive. McDonald’s owner/operators and restaurant teams in Gaines Township and all around West Michigan are also placing a higher emphasis on hospitality by focusing on greeting customers, assisting with technology and ensuring a clean, welcoming environment.
This McDonald’s restaurant is among the latest in the area to offer this new level of choice, engagement and service. It is one of 400 McDonald’s restaurants in the state of Michigan that will be upgraded before the end of 2019, and is part of a total investment of around $205 million across the state.
Paul Dymowski is stepping into the newly-created position as director of the center-based Special Education program that is transferring to Kent ISD from Grand Rapids Public Schools
By James Harger
School News Network
Paul Dymowski was enthusiastic when asked about being chosen as director of the center-based Special Education program that is transferring to Kent ISD from Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS). “It’s a really exciting opportunity to build off the work Grand Rapids has already done,” he said after he was named to the new job on Wednesday, Oct. 3.
Dymowski, who currently serves as transition coordinator, part of the Special Education Department at Kent ISD, was chosen from a field of 28 applicants, according to Superintendent Ron Caniff, who announced the appointment.
“We’re confident that Paul will do a great job in this new role and will assist us through the transition occurring within these programs,” Caniff said in a letter to the staff and parents at GRPS. “He is excited for this opportunity and looks forward to meeting and working with you in the near future.
“The position will play a key role in helping Kent ISD prepare for the transition of operating special education center programs this school year and will be the administrator responsible for overseeing the center programs on a day-to-day basis once these programs transfer to Kent ISD beginning in July 2019,” Caniff continued.
(The GRPS School Board voted in August to turn over operations of its center-based programs to Kent ISD. These specialized programs serve nearly 1,400 students from throughout Kent County and part of Barry County. Most of the buildings for these programs, like Lincoln Developmental Center or Pine Grove Learning Center, are owned by Kent ISD, and all are currently operated by Grand Rapids Public Schools.)
In his current job, Dymowski provides technical assistance to transition coordinators and programs at local school districts for older students with special needs who are making the transition to adult life. He also supervises Kent ISD’s team of physical therapists and audiology staff.
Dymowski came to Kent ISD last year from Allegan Area Educational Service Agency, where he served as Assistant Director of Specialized Instruction. There he administered regional and center-based programs for students with cognitive and behavioral needs as well as Early On screenings and services for preschool students.
The 39-year-old Flint native also served as a director of special education for the Wayland and Hopkins school districts. Earlier in his career, Dymowski was a special education instructor at Northview and Grand Rapids Public Schools.
The selection process began with a stakeholders group that included two parents of children receiving services from center programs, two teachers, two center program principals, two local district special education directors, and three representatives from Kent ISD. Three finalists were then interviewed by Caniff, Lowell Area Schools Superintendent Greg Pratt and the chairman of the superintendents’ Special Education Advisory Committee.
Dymowski will assume his new duties on a rolling, intermittent basis, Caniff said in his letter. Beginning later this month, he will devote a few days each week to the transition process, gradually increasing his supervision of the center program transition until it becomes his full-time assignment in January.
More information about the transfer of center-based programs can be found on Kent ISD’s website at Center Program Review pages.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
West Michigan is home to high-caliber chefs, bakers and other culinary experts and the level of skill is evident in the cuisine and flavors served at ethnic restaurants, fine dining establishments, casual diners, pastry shops and bistros.
Kent Career Tech Center senior Joslynn Skutt, who wants to operate her own bakery someday, described the area as a place for many palates. “It’s very diverse and you can get so much culture from every bakery you go to.”
Now there’s an easy way for Joslynn to transition smoothly from high school student to pastry aficionado with the goal of adding her own style and flavor to the scene. Thanks to a new partnership between the Tech Center and Grand Rapids Community College’s Secchia Institute for Culinary Education, she is among 40 students earning 20-25 free GRCC credits, about a third of the 67-credit associates degree.
Culinary students attend GRCC classes taught at the Tech Center their junior and senior years and during a fifth high school year. They then graduate with a high school diploma, industry certifications and earn their certified fundamental cook designation from the American Culinary Federation.
Werner Absenger, Secchia Institute for Culinary Education program director, said the partnership is a way to fast-track students through school and save them a third of the cost.
“We are shortening the period of time to start the program and finish it,” he said. When students finish KCTC, they will usually only have a year left full time at GRCC. “We are able to take a two-and-a-half year program and compress into one year.”
Senior Joslynn Skutt said the Grand Rapids culinary scene is diverse and filled with culture
Connecting the Dots
“It’s such a clear pathway,” said Sara Waller, Tech Center culinary instructor. “Students are going into college a step ahead of the other kids because they see so much here…We are sending so many students to GRCC already, a partnership was a no-brainer. It’s what the kids were asking for.”
The Tech Center often gives culinary students another boost as well, Waller said. “If they do three years with us and they do a good job, we also like to send them out the door with a nice scholarship to get them going.”
Senior Anthony Hall plans to become a baker, making all sorts of pastries in the Grand Rapids area. He said he likes the idea of earning his culinary degree and working in the area. He nibbled on a cookie during the GRCC “Principles of Food Science” class with Adjunct Professor Bill Gayle, held at the Tech Center.
“I think it’s an amazing opportunity because it can really help us in the future,” said Hall about the GRCC program.
Senior Arianna Kruizenga said the partnership supports her goal to become a dietitian and nutritionist, or owner of a catering company. “I can spring right into it with a head start.”
Tech Center senior Arianna Kruizenga is planning on continuing her education at GRCC
Jobs are in Demand
Jobs are waiting and demand for workers in the industry is expected to continue.
“Everyone is hurting for manpower, employees and talent. A year quicker (to their degree) puts them in the workforce a year sooner,” Absenger said.
In the U.S., based on 2018 data U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics demand for cooks in schools, hospitals and cafeterias, will grow by 6 percent from 2016 to 2026. The restaurant industry will need to employ 1.377 million cooks in 2026 compared to 1.22 million in 2016.
Because of the need for workers, Absenger said young people often get jobs instead of pursuing a degree. However, a culinary degree can help in the long run.
“What we see happening is students not in program or never enrolled, will come to us and say, ‘How long does it take to finish an associates?’ because they have been passed over for promotions,” he said.
Total savings for someone who would otherwise attend GRCC as a full-tuition college student is about $5,500, bringing the cost of a culinary arts degree for a resident student from about $16,500 to about $11,000. Staying in Grand Rapids also eliminates the room and board costs of attending a four-year university.
It’s also a great industry to work in, said Absenger, a chef from Austria. “I was literally able to get a job anywhere on the planet and I think that’s the coolest part of the industry. You can make money everywhere you go.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Melissa Seide sits on the exam table, swings her feet and grins with excitement.
Her left leg hangs a couple inches shorter than her right. But it hangs straight―for the first time she can remember.
Melissa was just a baby when her leg was broken in the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. When the injury healed, her calf bones remained bent at a right angle.
Now, recovering from surgery to straighten the leg, 6-year-old Melissa hopes to hear good news. She can’t wait to ditch the clunky black surgical walking boot. She has a pair of snazzy purple tennis shoes calling her name.
“Her leg is just in a really good position. And her joints feel fantastic. Her ankle joint had literally no movement (before the operation).”
I think what people don’t understand about Haiti is that if you can’t walk, you are in big trouble.
Jeri Kessenich, MD Pediatrician
And then he says the words Melissa longs to hear: “We can get rid of that boot and put her in regular shoes and see how she does with that.”
Melissa’s host mother, Betsy Miedema, makes sure Melissa understands. “No boot, Melissa,” she says.
Melissa presses her hands to her face. Her eyes sparkle.
“No boot,” Miedema repeats.
Melissa sits silent a moment, her hands still covering her mouth, as if she can’t believe it. She looks up. Grins. And whispers, “Thank you, Jesus!”
Soon, she stands on the floor, her purple tennis shoes laced up, and walks tentatively across the room. It takes a bit to get used to the new shoes―the left has a 2-inch lift to accommodate the shorter leg.
But the small steps add up to a big moment for this little girl far from home and family.
Adjusting to a new home
“She’s just the sweetest kid,” Miedema says. She and her husband, Eric, welcomed Melissa into their home in Walker, Michigan, serving as her host parents during her stay.
Since she arrived in August, Melissa has struggled with homesickness, longing for her family and home in Haiti. She eagerly shows a picture of herself with her mother.
But Melissa also has become attached to the Miedemas and their children, 10-year-old Evan and 7-year-old Alaina. She goes to school with Alaina and has learned so much English the family rarely needs an interpreter any more.
Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat
The running and playing is going to make that calf strong. Being a kid is the best therapy there is.
Jeffrey Cassidy, MD Pediatric orthopedic surgeon
Melissa came to the attention of Healing the Children through a school created in Haiti by several Spectrum Health employees, the Power of Education Foundation.
The school’s medical director, Jeri Kessenich, MD, also is a pediatrician at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. She contacted Healing the Children, as well as Dr. Cassidy and the hospital, to see if they could help Melissa.
Dr. Kessenich is unsure how Melissa’s leg became injured―only that it was crushed when a devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti in 2010.
Melissa could hobble for short distances―and with a lot of pain. Family members carried her when she had to walk far.
Her leg “was in pretty rough shape,” Dr. Cassidy says. It appeared someone tried to fix the break, but the leg never healed properly. The shin bones―the tibia and fibula―remained bent at a 90-degree angle.
In surgery, Dr. Cassidy had to shorten the bones about 2 inches as he straightened them. He also lengthened the skin and tendons in the back of the leg.
“At least we can give her a straight leg that is hopefully pain-free,” he says. “Hopefully, this will make a profound difference in her life.”
For six weeks after surgery, her leg healed and Melissa looked forward to the day she could wear her new tennis shoes. A local store, Mieras Family Shoes, donated the shoes. Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital added the lift to the left shoe.
Ready to run and play
Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat
As Melissa walks up and down the hall, testing out her new shoes at Dr. Cassidy’s office, Miedema asks if she should limit her activities. Should she protect Melissa from doing too much too soon? Usually, she uses a wheelchair to cover long distances and walks for shorter stretches.
Melissa will find those limits for herself, Dr. Cassidy says. The more she walks, the stronger her leg will become and the less she will need the wheelchair.
“The running and playing is going to make that calf strong,” he says. “I think she’ll get her strength back over time. Being a kid is the best therapy there is.”
“Run and play,” he tells Melissa. She claps and beams.
Melissa gives goodbye hugs to Dr. Cassidy and nurse Chelsea Ciampa, RN.
And it’s off to school. She arrives at West Side Christian mid-morning. As she passes a fourth-grade classroom, her host brother, Evan, comes out to give her a hug. Soon, a circle of big kids forms, admiring Melissa’s purple shoes.
At her second-grade classroom, a double treat awaits. Melissa gets to show off her shoes and the class sings “Happy Birthday” to her. It’s two days early, but school won’t be in session the day Melissa turns 7.
The kids show the journal entries they wrote about Melissa in honor of her birthday.
Her host sister, Alaina, talks about the Haitian Creole words she has learned from Melissa. She recites several―including “dlo” (water) and “bon” (good). She explains how to ask if Melissa’s leg hurts: “Fe mal?”
Mobility is crucial
Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat
Melissa’s leg “is healing beautifully,” Dr. Kessenich says. And although there is a 2-inch difference in the length of her legs, that difference will decrease over time. The surgery will prompt the bone to grow faster in an effort to catch up.
The doctor hopes, through the school, to continue providing updated shoes with lifts to match Melissa’s growing feet.
The repair to the leg will make Melissa’s life much easier―now and in the future, Dr. Kessenich says.
“I think what people don’t understand about Haiti is that if you can’t walk, you are in big trouble,” she says. “You don’t have cars or money for motorcycle rides or taxi cabs. People walk―and they walk everywhere. If you are unable to do that, you are not going to be useful to your family.”
Being able to walk on two strong legs will allow Melissa to do everything other children do.
“This is going to change her life forever,” she says.
Arcanum Alloys is moving to Kentwood bring 25 high tech jobs to West Michigan.
The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of Kentwood, announced that Arcanum Alloys will be relocating from Silicon Valley to the City of Kentwood. This will result in the creation of 25 new high-tech jobs and a capital investment of $693,000.
Arcanum Alloys’ patented technology generates revolutionary function and value by utilizing the most common metallurgical elements to create alloys whose properties at the surface and bulk are spatially segregated. The company produces 20-ton coils for some of the world’s most well-known manufacturing companies.
Arcanum Alloys chose West Michigan over other competing locations to be closer to its production partner, suppliers and manufacturing customers. This location will function as both a new headquarters and R&D center. The company will be locating at 4460 44th St. SE, Kentwood.
“Arcanum Alloys is looking forward to starting the next chapter of its growth story in the City of Kentwood,” said Dan Bullard, CEO of Arcanum Alloys. “We’re grateful for the support provided by The Right Place and their partners at the MEDC and City of Kentwood as we moved through this decision process.”
The Right Place worked in collaboration with the company and MEDC to ensure Arcanum Alloys chose West Michigan. The Right Place also connected the company to workforce development resources at West Michigan Works! to assist with workforce recruitment and training.
The MEDC is supporting the relocation with the approval of a $162,500 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant.
“Arcanum Alloys’ decision to move their headquarters from Silicon Valley to West Michigan reflects the strength of our region’s high-tech talent pool and manufacturing supply chain,” said Eric Icard, Senior business development manager, The Right Place, Inc. “Our region’s talented workforce combined with its strong advanced manufacturing base have made it a destination for innovative companies like Arcanum Alloys.”
The City of Kentwood is supportive of Arcanum Alloys’ plans to locate in the city.
“We are delighted Arcanum Alloys has chosen the City of Kentwood for their new headquarters,” said Mayor Stephen Kepley, City of Kentwood. “We look forward to working with them as they grow and create high-tech jobs in our community.”
From the upcoming EP Adventures’ “Stormy Weather.”
Just in time for hunting season, WKTV will be airing a brand new episode of EP Adventures: “Stormy Weather.”
The newest episodes will be airing on WKTV25 on Wednesday, Oct. 10, and Saturday, Oct. 13, at 5 p.m. both days.
According to producer & WKTV volunteer Mike Endres said the show will feature multiple trophies hitting the ground as the pro staff comes through with another great year.
“Stormy Weather is an educational, action-packed hunt video that will show you all aspects of hunting,” Endres said. “We meet many new faces, and create many great memories. This year’s hunts will make you feel as if you are in the tree with us.”
The Nov. 6 general election is less than a month away and voters in Wyoming and Kentwood who have not yet registered to vote have only one more day to do so. But easy last-minute registration information is available online on the Michigan Secretary of State’s website, as is the ability to see a sample ballot based on a voter’s Zip Code.
Information is also available at the city clerk’s office and website in both Wyoming and Kentwood.
In summary, to register, applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by election day, and residents of the city or township in which they register. Voters may still register by mail or in person at their county, city or township clerk’s office, or by visiting any Secretary of State branch office.
Voters can check their registration status — are they registered or not? — by visiting the website of the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office. After confirming their voting status, they can also see a sample ballot based on their Zip Code.
As of Oct. 6, the number of people registered to vote in the election was 7,436,194, Secretary of State’s Office spokesman Fred Woodhams said Monday to other media. In October 2016, a presidential election year, the number was 7,481,074; in October 2014, the last mid-term and non-presidential election, the number was 7,413,142.
In addition to select city and county elections, Michigan residents will vote for governor, attorney general, secretary of state, state House and select Senate, the Michigan Supreme Court, the one U.S. Senate, and all members of the U.S. Congress. There are also proposals on recreational marijuana, gerrymandering and increasing access to voting.
So how does a Caledonia resident end up writing about a haunted bridge in Algoma Township?
“Years ago, a friend asked if I’d heard of the legend,” said Russell Slater, author of “The Algoma Ghost: The Legend of Hell’s Bridge.” “I had not. He suggested I look into it, which I did. I found the legend to be very interesting and ideal material on which to base a modern horror story.”
The story of Hell’s Bridge, which is a metal bridge located off of Friske Drive crossing the Ceder Creek in Algoma Township, is a pretty well-known story having been featured in a number of local and national stories and various websites. According to the urban legend in the late 1800s, a man named Elias Friske murdered seven children and then threw their bodies in the stream. He blamed it on the devil. The townsfolk tried to hang Friske near the bridge for his crimes but the rope snapped with his body falling into the river never to be found.
Slater’s story has more of a modern-day twist. Because of the story of Friske, a group of thrill-seeking teenagers go to visit the bridge only to disappear in thin air. It leads to paranormal investigator Birgil Doxey to probe into the mystery only to uncover the truth to the town’s dark past.
“I’ve always enjoyed writing horror fiction,” Slater said. “Once I began researching the legend, a modern story began formulating in my mind.”
Russell Slater with another of his books “Acipenser: The Green Lake Monster.”
Slater said he did quite a bit of research on the legend and he utilized details from paranormal investigation groups who’ve reported strange happenings at the location such as odd sights, smells, and electronic device’s batteries draining rapidly.
But is the legend true?
“All of my research indicates that the legend is in fact, just a legend and not based on any historical truth,” Slater said. In fact, according to Michigan’s Otherside website, the U.S. Census has the Friske family in the Algoma area around 1910 and there is no one by the name of Elias Friske. Also the legend refers to the Rogue River but the bridge actually crosses Cedar Creek.
Regardless if it is true or not, the legend continues with people still visiting the bridge at midnight to see if they can hear “the laughs of the devil.”
“A certain portion of the population likes to be scared, they desire stories about things that go bump in the night,” Slater said, adding it is why people visit haunted houses or go on thrill rides. However, with a book, people tend to be on safer ground.
“People can suspend disbelief and give themselves over to a frightening experience, within the confines of safety. They know no actual harm will come to them, but that racing heart is what they crave. Unlike thrill rides or haunted houses, readers do not have to ‘ride it out’ with a book. If it gets too spooky, they can always put it down.”
Slater’s book “Algoma’s Ghost: The Legend of Hell’s Bridge” is available through a number of outlets include Schuler Books & Music. Slater has written a number of other Michigan-based books including “Acipensor: The Green Lake Monster,” “Pumpkin Patch Pandemonium” and “War for West Michigan.” He is also the founder and president of Peninsulam Publishing, which specializes in stories based in Michigan. For more, visit peninsulampublishing.com.
More than 1,000 runners and walkers braved the rain and laced up their sneakers for a behind-the-scenes 5K on one of the runways at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA).
The Runway 5K, in its second year at GFIA, is unique as it gives runners and walkers a chance to run with planes in the background and along the route. The race began near the cargo facilities, continuing under the Airport’s tunnel, looping around by the airport fire station, and wrapped around on Runway 8L/26R – GFIA’s general aviation runway. The Airport’s two other commercial aviation runways were operational, giving participants a chance to soak in an up-close-and- personal sight.
“This was a tremendous opportunity for runners, walkers, and families who wanted to experience a fun event on one of our runways that is normally only being used for aircraft,” said GFIA Marketing & Communications Director Tara Hernandez. “It was exciting to see West Michigan come out and brave the elements to experience our facility like never before, plus support a wonderful charity at the same time.”
GFIA selected Make-A-Wish Michigan as its charity of choice to donate the race proceeds. Last year, the Runway 5K raised $10,000 for Make-A-Wish Michigan. This year, event organizers expect to top that number.
“We’re delighted that the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is once again hosting the Runway 5K to benefit Make-A-Wish Michigan,” said Karen Davis, president & CEO of Make-A-Wish Michigan. “We are so grateful for their support and the special care they extend to our wish kids and families. It’s through the generous support of our Michigan community, like our friends at GFIA, that we are able to grant transformational wishes to Michigan children battling critical illnesses.
“Make-A-Wish Michigan does tremendous work in our community, and we are thrilled to be able to donate proceeds from our Runway 5K to this organization,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We see Make-A-Wish kids in our airport on a regular basis, and although we wish that was less frequent; we are happy to help grant more wishes in West Michigan through this donation.”
Nearly 65 percent of adult Americans are overweight and more than one in three are obese. It’s an epidemic putting millions of people at risk for a variety of serious health issues.
If you’re overweight or obese, knowing the facts can help you understand the dangers you face and allow you to take control of your options:
FACT: The scale only tells part of the story. It’s important to calculate your body mass index to determine if you are actually overweight or obese. A BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight; a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.
FACT: Health risks associated with a high BMI are compounded by excess abdominal fat. A waist circumference greater than 35 inches for women and greater than 40 inches for men indicates a greater risk.
FACT: Obesity can be caused by genetics, poor eating habits, lack of physical activity—or often a combination of all three.
FACT: Conditions commonly linked to being overweight or obese include arthritis, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, sleep apnea and gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD. It’s also linked to several kinds of cancer, including esophageal, gallbladder, pancreatic, colorectal, uterine and breast (in post-menopausal women).
FACT: A relatively small change can make a big difference. Losing 5 to 10 percent of your weight can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and reduce risk of other conditions. And a 5 percent to 7 percent weight reduction can prevent type 2 diabetes.
FACT: If you’re ready for a change, set a weight loss goal of one or two pounds per week. A slow, steady loss is more likely to be permanent than dropping weight quickly. Before dieting, see your doctor for a check of your health and medical conditions.
FACT: Increased physical activity can help you lose weight and keep it off. Aim for 30 minutes a day most days of the week. You can sneak activity into your day by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking at lunch or using a treadmill at home while watching TV.
FACT: Most weight-loss drugs are intended for short-term use and will only help for about the first six months before losing their effectiveness. Discuss this option with your doctor, and if you choose a weight-loss drug, be sure to combine it with healthier eating and physical activity so you can keep the weight off.
FACT: If you have a BMI of more than 40, or a BMI of at least 35 plus other obesity-related conditions, weight loss (bariatric) surgery may be an option.
Altar’d State is scheduled to open Saturday, Oct. 6.
By Woodland Mall
A diverse mix of local and first-to-portfolio stores are scheduled to open in October at Woodland Mall.
New tenants such as Love Culture, Toysaro, Christmas Treasures, The Glove and Roeda Studio are slated to open after the recently announced Altar’d State, which is opening Oct. 6. They will be joined by 2019 additions of Von Maur, Urban Outfitters and REI.
Love Culture, a new-to-portfolio fashion retailer, is anticipated to open in the Macy’s Wing mid-October with bold, on-trend pieces, inspired by celebrities and the runway at affordable prices.
Shoppers can also expect to see new Michigan-owned businesses open soon, such as Roeda Studio and The Glove, which will be in the Macy’s Wing, and Toysaro in Center Court.
Grand Rapids-based Roeda Studio will be opening at store at Woodland Mall, Oct. 15.
Roeda Studio, a Grand Rapids-owned manufacturer, features hand-painted decorative magnets, along with home and garden art. Headquartered in Pentwater, The Glove offers Michigan-themed apparel and home decor. Toysaro, a Michigan-owned seasonal toy store specializing in electronic and motorized toys, will open Oct. 15.
Just in time for early holiday shoppers, Christmas Treasures will also open mid-October. The store sells holiday décor such as custom tree ornaments.
“We are excited to begin ramping up for the holiday season at Woodland Mall with several new stores, many of which are locally owned,” said Cecily McCabe, Woodland Mall marketing director. “Our diverse mix of Michigan-owned businesses with first-to-portfolio stores strengthens Woodland Mall as a retail destination that’s home to many must-have brands in the region.”
On Oct. 6, the mall will welcome the recently announced women’s fashion retailer Altar’d State to a 5,500-square-foot space in the JCPenney wing.
Hollister, which offers California-inspired apparel and accessories catering to the global teen consumer, will reopen on Oct. 12 in its renovated 6,500-square-foot space. The updated store will sport a more modern surfer look featuring Hollister’s Surf Green exclusive wall color, new LED lighting and a full digital wall at the entrance.
Well that school bell has rung but it doesn’t mean you need to end those weekend adventures.
There are a host of weekend activities in and around West Michigan that range from family to scary fun. West Michigan Tourist Association Public Relations and Marketing Manager Jeremy Witt offered up a few ideas from the WMTA’s Carefree Travel Guide.
“Part of the harvest we have in West Michigan is hops,” Witt said. “So those hops are harvested and they go straight to the brewery to start the process of becoming beer.”
A number of area breweries offer harvest festivals such a Brewery Vivant, 925 Cherry St. SE. Brewery Vivant, the first LEED certified microbrewery in the world and a certified B Corporation, has featured its barrel aged beers. Visit the brewery’s website, breweryvivant.com, for more fall events.
If you are looking for something on the scary side, you might want to head to South Haven which transforms itself into a fall paradise with a little a touch of Halloween. From Oct. 19-21, South Haven hosts is Haven Harvest which is full of fun fall activities as well as the flavors of fall such as apple and pumpkin. If you like haunted houses, Witt said the Michigan Maritime Museum, which is located in South Haven at 260 Dyckman Ave., is transformed into a haunted maze Oct. 19 and 20. Museum Fright Nights run from 8 – 11 p.m. both days. Tickets are available at michiganmaritimemuseum.org.
Lavender fields are a popular place at Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery
Looking for something a little less scary, then try Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery, located at 3309 Blue Water Rd., Traverse City, which has a unique harvest, lavender.
“They have these beautiful lavender fields, which I am sure it smells fantastic out there,” Witt said, adding that the store has a lot of lavender infused products in its shop. There are soaps and lotions along with home decor and pet accessories. Also available is lavender-infused cookies, lemonade, and a custom MOOMer’s ice cream.
Lots of fun items available at Lewis Farms and Petting Zoo.
You could also head to New Era to Lewis Farms and Petting Zoo, 4180 West, M-20, which also has some unique fall decorations along with apples and a pumpkin patch. Of course, if you head over there, Witt said he recommends grabbing a cup of cider and an apple or pumpkin donut.
For more weekend ideas, check out the WMTA Carefree Travel Guide or visit wmta.org.
By Jon Shaner 
