"Dreaming permits each and every one of us to be quietly and safely insane every night of our lives."
~William Dement
It’s now or never
Veteran head coach Don Galster knows his Rockets need a win Friday night against NorthPointe Christian keep alive realistic hopes of his team getting to the playoffs for the third year in a row. But a disappointing loss to Godwin Heights last week isn’t going to stop these Rockets from taking off.
Kelloggsville is now 3-3 overall and 2-1 in the OK Silver conference. Last season, the Rockets defeated NorthPointe, 36-21, as part of a 9-0 regular season.
Thanks to the tremendous response from fans, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s show at SMG-managed Van Andel Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2018, has SOLD OUT. As a result, a second show has been added for Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019, at 8pm.
Tickets for the Jan. 5 date will go on sale Friday, Oct. 5 at 10am. Go here for details.
Start planning
Before you know it, the bright fall foliage will be here.
Weight gain around this time of year may not be from all the food.
Researchers have found that lack of vitamin D reduces fat breakdown and triggers fat storage. So, the lack of sunlight has more to do with the extra gain than all the pumpkin spice lattes. Well, at least some of it.
The economic pace for West Michigan picked up in the month of September, said Brian G. Long, director of Supply Management Research in Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business.
Long surveyed local business leaders and his findings below are based on data collected during the last two weeks of September.
The survey’s index of business improvement (new orders) edged up to +28, from +21. The production index rose sharply to +29, from +16. The index of purchases edged higher to +21, from +15, and the employment index improved to +29, up from +21.
Long said growth remains positive for most sectors in the West Michigan economy.
“Although auto sales continue to soften, the decline has, so far, been very orderly. Business conditions for the local auto parts suppliers remain positive,” Long said. “Although the office furniture business plateaued last year, the new tax incentives have continued to boost many segments of the industry. Local firms producing capital equipment are also continuing to benefit from the tax incentives enacted in late 2017.”
Long said the tax cuts will continue to move the U.S. economy in a positive direction, but uncertainty about the trade talks will limit future economic growth.
“Recessions have historically occurred when a proverbial ‘bubble breaks.’ The problem is identifying the bubble,” Long said. “After the collapse of the housing market, it was obvious that the banks buried themselves in sub-prime loans. Today, we have several bubbles that are starting to form, but none of them appear to be great enough to upset the current economic momentum.”
Long added the recent report of a new trade agreement with Canada and Mexico relaxed some of the fear of an international trade war.
The Institute for Supply Management survey is a monthly survey of business conditions that includes 45 purchasing managers in the greater Grand Rapids area and 25 in Kalamazoo. The respondents are from the region’s major industrial manufacturers, distributors and industrial service organizations. It is patterned after a nationwide survey conducted by the Institute for Supply Management. Each month, the respondents are asked to rate eight factors as “same,” “up” or “down.”
Do you want to earn some extra cash for the holidays?
Are you a college student looking for a job over break?
Would you like to get your foot in the door with a new employer?
Consider a seasonal job! Employers are hiring record numbers of seasonal workers to help during this year’s busy holiday season.
Why seasonal employment?
Perks and incentives
With the high demand for seasonal workers, employers know they need to offer competitive wages. Many retailers have increased their starting wage. Kohl’s at Woodland Mall in Grand Rapids is offering higher seasonal pay over last year. Target stores are offering $12/hr to all seasonal staff—a dollar an hour more than last year. Amazon’s recent hike in minimum wage to $15/hr includes part-time, temporary and seasonal workers.
In addition to increased pay, employers are getting creative with incentives to attract seasonal help. JCPenney is offering seasonal employees paid time-off for the first time. Target started the work.win.give program which will award one hourly team member per store a $500 Target gift card and $500 to donate to the local community organization of their choice. Kohl’s associates can take advantage of extra discounts during friends and family weekends to get their holiday shopping done.
It’s easy to apply and interview
All Kohl’s locations offer walk-in interviews to candidates during business hours but recommend coming on a weekday when it is less busy.
Every Target store will be hosting seasonal hiring events Friday, Oct. 12 through Sunday, Oct. 14 from 10am to 6pm.
JCPenney at Rivertown Mall in Grandville will host their annual National Hiring Day on Tuesday, Oct. 16 from 2 to 8pm.
Open the door to future employment
Seasonal work has the potential to turn into full-time regular employment for high-performing staff. Over the last three years 35% of people hired as seasonal UPS package handlers were given a permanent position after the holidays. “Seasonal hires will work through the end of the year,” explained a representative from Kohl’s, “with the potential to stay on pending performance and the store’s needs.”
Companies are hiring NOW for seasonal positions so don’t wait to apply. You can find out who is hiring locally and learn more about their opportunities here: westmiworks.org/seasonal.
Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local West Michigan Works! service center.
It’s now or never for the Kelloggsville football team.
Rockets Head Coach Don Galster. (WKTV)
Veteran head coach Don Galster knows his Rockets need a win Friday night against NorthPointe Christian keep alive realistic hopes of his team getting to the playoffs for the third year in a row. But a disappointing loss to Godwin Heights last week isn’t going to stop these Rockets from taking off.
Kelloggsville is now 3-3 overall and 2-1 in the OK Silver conference. Last season, the Rockets defeated NorthPointe, 36-21, as part of a 9-0 regular season.
Galster told the WKTV Journal how important these next few weeks leading up to the playoffs are.
“Our destiny is in our hands and we just have to rise to the occasion,” Galster said prior to the Godwin Heights game.
That point is also clear to a couple of key senior players for Kelloggsville as well.
Desmond Simmons, Kelloggsville football player. (WKTV)
For Desmond Simmons, a senior middle linebacker for the Rockets, these next few weeks will be the last time he plays football at the high school level. Hoping for the post-season, Simmons takes pride in how he and the rest of the defense has been playing.
“I think we’re looking pretty solid,” Simmons said. “We always try to go hard at practice even if it’s hot, cold, or we’re tired. We always try to go hard and hit somebody.”
This will be senior wingback Jaevion Willis’ last year as a high school football player as well.
Jaevion Willis, Kelloggsville player. (WKTV)
“We’re taking this week one step at a time,” said Willis. “We’re trying to get better and better every day. We’re looking forward to trying to step up and make the run and make back-to-back conference champs”.
Because this is their last season with the Rockets, both Simmons and Willis reflected on their time with coach Galster.
“It means a lot,” Simmons said. “It feels real good to be coached by him and have somebody that knows what their doing.”
“It’s very exciting, playing for coach Galster,” Willis said. “Or ‘The Goat’ as we call him.”
This week’s WKTV Featured Game and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.
WKTV’s featured football games are rebroadcast on the night of the game (Thursday or Friday) at 11 p.m. and Saturday starting at 11 a.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports for complete schedules.
Perhaps there is no region of the world about which Americans “know so much, yet so little” than the countries of the Arabian Peninsula, that according to the World Affairs Council of West Michigan.
In response, the Council’s Fall Lecture Series will feature four presentations about four distinctly different Middle Eastern nations in a series titled “Shifting Sands in the Arabian Peninsula”, beginning Thursday, Oct. 18, with a free-to-the-public opening program. The series will take place at Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business in Grand Rapids.
In the series, the public can learn why Oman is on many “safest countries to visit” lists, how Qatar is coping with the blockade instituted by its neighbors, what the loosening of long-standing cultural laws means for Saudi Arabia, and if there is any hope for an end to the war in Yemen.
“What happens in this part of the world impacts us,” a World Affairs Council release states. “Let’s be informed global citizens.”
The Oct. 18 lecture will focus on Oman and will be presented by Dr. Fahad Bishara, University of Virginia.
Fahad Bishara (UVA photo by Dan Addison)
According to his supplied biography, Fahad Bishara specializes in the economic and legal history of the Indian Ocean and Islamic world. His book, “A Sea of Debt: Law and Economic Life in the Western Indian Ocean, 1780-1950”,is a legal history of economic life in the Western Indian Ocean, told through the story of the Arab and Indian settlement and commercialization of East Africa during the 19th Century.
He is currently working on a history of the Arab dhow trade between the Gulf and the Indian Ocean during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, a project which takes on issues of global capitalism, international law, empire, mobility, and scale in historical writing.
The remaining lectures will be Wednesday, Oct. 24, focused on Qatar, with Ambassador Chase Untermeyer (ret.), U.S. ambassador to Qatar; Tuesday, Nov.13, focused on Saudi Arabia, with Dr. Abdullah Alrebh, Grand Valley State University; and Tuesday, Nov. 20, focused on Yemen, with Dr. Gamal Gasim, Grand Valley State University.
The cost to the public to attend the series is $10 per evening or $25 for a series pass. However, the Oct. 18 lecture is free and open to the public thanks to support from the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center and the World Affairs Councils of America.
All programs are 7-8:15 p.m. and a special reception will kick off the series on Oct. 18 starting at 6:15 p.m. The Seidman College of Business’ Multi-purpose Room is located at 50 Front Ave. SW. Free parking in Fulton Street Lot. No RSVPs necessary.
The autumn season in Michigan brings many small delights, spectacular views, and a variety of fall fun. As the leaves change their colors to warm hues of a sunset, Michigan residents and travelers alike find themselves enjoying every bit of the landscape. In whatever region you visit, you’ll be sure to find remarkable events, eateries, driving routes, tours, and places to enjoy the splendor of all the fall colors while breathing in the crisp autumn air.
Stunning fall colors in southern West Michigan
One of the best ways to see the fall colors of West Michigan is to experience it on high. The Timber Ridge Ski Area chairlift will be open for rides, giving riders a gorgeous view of Gobles and the surrounding landscape. If you’re looking for more adventurous fun at Timber Ridge, head to their Timber Fall Crawl event on Oct. 13th for Jeeps and other vehicles that like to off-road. There are multiple trails for all abilities. Afterward, wind down with your family and friends at the bar with food and drinks.
The Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings is offering plenty of educational and fun-filled experiences for you this fall. Year-round they host exciting activities and learning experiences, including everything from establishing a backyard wildlife habitat to nature hikes. On Oct. 14th, visit the institute for a delicious meal and learning program for brunch. From the dining room, you’ll see all the wonderful autumn colors in nature, especially if you take a small walk through nature. Visit their website to RSVP for the event.
The River Country Tourism Council is hosting the Three Rivers Area Fall Color Tour, a scenic, fun-filled drive with a wide variety of destinations and activities along the way. On Oct. 14th, witness all the magical autumn colors while hiking and walking through great parks, sanctuaries, and preserves. Along this drive, you’ll be able to experience tons of family fun at any one of the 13 stops, from hayrides to campfires.
Courtesy Arts and Eats
One of the best ways to witness the fall foliage is driving along the rural roads of Michigan’s southwestern region. During the weekend-long event Arts and Eats, take a self-driving tour to discover Allegan, Hastings, Van Buren, and other surrounding counties. Beginning Saturday, Oct. 20th, over 60 West Michigan artist studios and galleries are participating in the exciting 8th Annual Arts and Eats.
Another way to enjoy the autumn colors of the City of Hastings is along some of Barry County’s most scenic gravel roads and trails during the Founder’s Fall Fondo. This is a fantastic family event where all ages and abilities can experience the 22-, 36-, or 62-mile courses which was also used for spring’s Barry-Roubaix Killer Gravel Road race.
Fennville’s most iconic farm-to-table restaurant and bar, Salt of the Earth, is the perfect way to wind down after a long day of seeing the fall colors ablaze through the Allegan Woods. Enjoy in-house concerts every Sunday at 6pm.
In the heart of Berrien Springs, Lemon Creek Winery should be on your list of destinations this fall. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the fall colors with the surrounding landscapes and their beautiful vineyard. You’ll be able to enjoy a glass (or a bottle) of one of Michigan’s delightful wines outside. The incredible aromas of grapes and autumn are the perfect pairing. For more activities, take a stroll in their orchard and don’t forget to pick some fresh apples.
In the Saugatuck area, you’ll be able to see the all the fall colors as a true Michigander. There is something for everyone here, whether you enjoy hiking, driving, boating, or biking. The Star of Saugatuck riverboat offers rides along the Kalamazoo River into Lake Michigan. If you’d like to fully immerse yourself in the fall fun, try hiking through the 13 miles of the Saugatuck Dunes State Park or take a refreshing bike ride along Blue Star Highway.
Anywhere you look, you’ll find all the wonderful fall colors Michigan has to offer. After a long day in Saugatuck, rest up and relax with Lakeshore Lodging. While you’re in the area, you can experience bountiful apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and all the colors of autumn.
In South Haven, visit the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum to learn about America’s “Father of Modern Horticulture,” and a pioneer of “New Agrarian” philosophy. Experience a taste of history as you walk through the gorgeous National Historic Site, garden, and park where you’ll see brilliant fall colors. Throughout the year, the museum hosts events that celebrate Bailey’s life and work.
Bell’s Brewery has amazing tours in both Kalamazoo and Comstock locations this fall. Driving along the route between the two, you’ll experience the full bloom of fall foliage. After spending time at the original brewery and Eccentric Café in Kalamazoo, head to the Comstock location to enjoy many of their events going throughout the season.
As a local resident or traveler, enjoy the amazing home to more than 100 lakes, including two chains of lakes, in Coldwater Country. For a unique fall color experience, get out on the water to see the fantastic fall foliage. In Coldwater County, you’ll be able to launch a boat, kayak, or canoe at one of the many public access points. If you’re in town for a brief visit, you can rent a boat from one of the area’s marinas to experience a new perspective of Mother Nature’s magnificent fall color show.
As the fall color tour season begins to emerge, you’re invited to bring the family out to explore the back country roads along the Lake Michigan shoreline stretching throughout Van Buren and Allegan Counties. Nestled along a 30-mile stretch of Michigan’s “Fruit Belt” region lies a collection of orchards, farms, and vineyards known as Lakeshore Harvest Country. The shoreline area is bound to thrill you with its incredible landscape, agricultural presence, and fun places to explore.
Enjoy the fall colors along the banks of the Black River in South Haven aboard the Michigan Maritime Museum’s Lindy Lou cruise as you recapture the golden days from the late 1890s through the 1930s. The Lindy Lou makes daily cruises through October (with permitting weather). Tickets for the guided cruise are $20 per person and include admission to the Michigan Maritime Museum.
Charming fall colors in central West Michigan
The White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau have teamed up, so gather your family and friends to experience the vibrant fall colors during this free, self-guided tour. Every Saturday in October from 10am to 4pm, you’ll have the opportunity to visit stops along the tour to win great prizes, partake in local activities, and enjoy everything the autumn season has to offer. Refreshments will be served at both the Muskegon and Whitehall Depots and kids will receive a free pumpkin that they can decorate on-the-spot. You can pick up a map at either the historic Union Depot in Muskegon or at the White Lake Area Chamber for this great tour.
In the land of the Great Lakes, we have plenty of fun water-activities this fall. The Mecosta County Fall Color Tour is offering self-guided canoe and kayak trips down the historic Muskegon River. On this tour, you’ll be able to see all of nature’s changing foliage. You will be able to see the majestic colors of Mecosta County and embrace the Muskegon River’s “big rapids.”
Right on the cusp between the central and southwestern regions of West Michigan, lies the charming city of Holland. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the season, and one of our favorites is to experience the fall colors as you climb the dunes of Mount Pisgah, a towering dune east of Holland State Park, which is accessible via a boardwalk and stair system. With its apex 157 feet above Lake Michigan, the boardwalk culminates with scenic views of Lake Macatawa, Lake Michigan, and Big Red. This area is surrounded by a heavily wooded area that features vibrant hues of oranges, reds, and yellows. If you prefer to view the fall colors from the comfort of your car, there are a variety of routes within the Holland area to enjoy the scenery, too.
Be sure to visit Kayla Rae Cellars during your time in the small town of Rockford. There, you’ll find a delicious glass of wine or cider in their wine bar and tasting room. Afterward, walk along the White Pine Trail for an incredible view of autumn’s changing colors. If you’re looking for one of Michigan’s many water tours, you can launch your kayak or canoe to paddle the Rogue River. Rockford is home to scenic views of both their dam and charming downtown.
Courtesy Lewis Farm and Petting Zoo
West Michigan is home to some of the state’s most beautiful farms and agricultural lands. The Lewis Farm and Petting Zoo in New Era is the perfect stop along the beautiful drive between Muskegon and Ludington. Make sure to visit the market for freshly-made apple cider and donuts. Pick up some delicious Michigan apples, or grab a bag of their homemade kettle corn for a road trip snack. If you have the whole day to spend exploring, visit the farm’s corn maze, pumpkin patch, and take a wagon ride to see all the fall colors.
Mt. Pleasant Convention & Visitors Bureau invites you along the banks of the Chippewa River to either take a leisure kayak or canoe tour. Along the shoreline, you’ll be able to experience the area’s incredible fall foliage. Spend the day exploring over 1,000 acres of the city and Isabella County parks.
In the heart of mid-Michigan, take a leisurely cruise on the Michigan Princess Riverboat this October. They operate small hour-and-a-half long lunch trips (almost) every day. Along the shores of the great Grand River, cruise a very scenic stretch of the amazing fall colors just west of Lansing.
Pick and stick to your personal mantra to gain control of your life. (For Spectrum Health Beat)
By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum Health Beat
The other day I had lunch with a friend at Panera. I had been craving my favorite Fuji apple salad and was really hungry when placing my order.
I have been avoiding simple carbs for quite some time, so I ordered an apple as a side—not the French baguette I love.
My friend ordered the baguette, and it looked so good! It was so fresh and warm, and I could tell it was crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—exactly the way I like it.
I remembered my mantra and grabbed my apple.
My mantra is “lean and ease of movement.”
It means I can sit with my knees up like I used to when I was younger (and more flexible). It means no extra weight around my middle, and it also means feeling “light” as I move around. My mantra (and everything it represents) is so important to me.
When I am carrying extra weight, I hate the way my clothes feel—tight and restricted. It makes me feel trapped and reminds me of times when I had to sit and practice piano. When I am lean, I feel healthy and in charge of my health, and I don’t have to shop for bigger clothes (an added bonus).
Why do we make the choices we make? Choices imply active decision-making, but sometimes the decision is made by the act of not deciding.
When I was growing up, there was a sign on the wall in the stairwell of my home that read, “Not to decide is to decide.” I think that says it all.
For example, if I choose to not make my lunch or bring a snack to work, I am choosing to be without good choices throughout the day. As a result of not having a plan for lunch or snacks at work, I am choosing to eat fast food or unhealthy snacks, which are not the best for my mind, my mood, or my waistline.
So, what do you care about?
Do you care about your heart and really don’t want to have a heart attack at 50 like your aunt did? Do you want to feel and look great at 60, unlike your sister who smoked and chose not to exercise?
If you dig deep and get at what you really care about and create a mantra to fit, you will claim power over the day-to-day and significant situations that occur in your life.
It could be as mundane as choosing what to eat for lunch (healthy versus unhealthy) or whether or not to exercise when you don’t feel like it, or as important as finding the courage to quit your job to pursue a new career.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself when creating your mantra:
What do I really want for my life (or health) in the next six months?
When I think about what I really want, what does that mean to me?
What feelings do I experience when I look at what I really want for my life?
What mantra would capture the feeling of what I want?
In what situations would I need/use a mantra?
My mantra helps steer me in the right direction almost daily. Take some time to compose your own mantra and enjoy having more power over the choices you make each day.
Kentwood resident and bicyclist-on-a-mission Ken Smith has finished his 3,500-plus coast-to-coast trip to raise funds for his grandson, Jakob, and awareness of all persons with neurological damage. In late September, he finished his journey at Revere Beach, near Boston.
Smith, 70, was riding from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean — Seaside, Oregon, to Boston, Massachusetts — in hopes of raising $30,000 to provide for possible care of and therapy for Jakob.
On Day 56 of his trek, Sunday, Sept. 23, he literally rode his bike into the Atlantic Ocean.
“A day of celebration!” Smith wrote on his Facebook page. “I cannot believe I rode my bike from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. Wow! A dream come true and for once I can say ‘I lived my dream awake’.
“My biggest THANK YOU goes out to my grandson JAKOB. Without you and carrying your picture on me daily this ride and journey would have meant very little other than personal satisfaction and accomplishment but it was YOU who inspired me, motivated me and drove me everyday to do what some would say was impossible especially at my age of 70. Love you JAKIE.”
The reception at the Revere Beach included friends, family and strangers, but he is thankful for many present and not-present.
“To have my family, my son Jason & my daughter Kyra and grandson Corbin drive so far just to be part of this day, I will never forget. My sister Lois and brother-in-law Roger were with me daily as I took this journey along with many of their friends who helped as well. Having her as my ‘eyes in the sky’ gave me that sense of security that I was not alone and safe. Thank you so much. I also want to thank my wife Jan for encouraging me to do this ride to support our family knowing I would be gone for 2 months. Her daily calls continued to lift me up in prayer.
“I just know Jakob has been blessed by all of you.”
WKTV followed Ken Smith on his journey (see online-print stories below) and plan to have him in studio soon for an in-depth, on-camera interview.
When he left Grand Rapids in early September, Smith estimated he had about 1,000 miles remaining on his trip, which took him across Michigan, across Ontario, and into New York State and Massachusetts. The route across Canada was intentional.
Jakob’s parents — Ken’s son Jason and daughter-in-law Sue, live in Ontario and Jason is a firefighter in London, Ontario, Canada.
Jakob, Ken explains, was supposed to die at age 2 but is now 16 years old. He can walk but cannot speak, and requires 24/7 care. The goal of the cross-country trip is, partially, to raise funds to support Jakob’s needs including speech therapy.
It’s time to get the kids together and pull out your favorite costumes because Pumpkin Path is right around the corner!
The City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department is excited to once again host the 15th annual Pumpkin Path – a free event for kids and families on Saturday, Oct. 13, at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. The event will be held from 4-6 p.m. Local businesses, clubs and organizations will host spaces along the path and will hand out candy, coupons and other goodies.
About 6,000 children, parents, and grandparents attended the Wyoming Pumpkin Path last year.
“Pumpkin Path was created to be a fun, safe, family-friendly event for the fall, providing an alternative to traditional Halloween events,” said Rebecca Rynbrandt, director of community services for the City of Wyoming. “Pumpkin Path gives families the perfect opportunity to interact with neighborhood businesses while enjoying the outdoors, Lamar Park and the beauty of the fall season.”
Not only should children expect to receive treats, they should also look forward to a DJ and dancing, jumping in the bounce house and games. Participants are welcome to come in costume or in regular clothes.
In previous years, Pumpkin Path has welcomed over 65 local businesses and organizations, and more than 6,000 children, parents, grandparents and friends.
In 2000, Gary Granger bought a piece of property on the south side of 56th Street between Ivanrest and Wilson avenues. Seventeen years later, his company, The Granger Group, broke ground on a new residential development that is estimated to be valued at more than $100 million.
On Thursday, Sept. 27, residents, Wyoming city officials, and members from The Granger Group met at the end of Niles Drive for the groundbreaking ceremony for The Reserve, which is located off of 56th Street between Wilson and Ivanrest avenues.
“The Reserve housing development has gone through numerous iterations over the past year and we are grateful after owning this land for 17 years to be moving forward with this project,” said Project Manager Ryan Granger. “Granger Group believes Wyoming is a booming residential and commercial market and we’ve enjoyed working with the community to get their insight into this project as well.”
The project will add 175 single family homes, 138 single story flats, and 190 luxury apartments to the existing 131 single family homes that are currently there. Through input from the community, Granger said they got a sense of a real desire to be connected so the new development also will include a community center, a dog park, tennis courts and walking trails that will provide access to existing trails such as Kent Trails. The development is actually close to one of the largest shopping districts — which includes RiverTown Crossings mall — in the Greater Grand Rapids area.
Granger Group President Gary Granger said infrastructure was put in place shortly after the property was purchased, and he noted he is excited about finally being able to extend Niles Drive through to Wilson Avenue.
Wyomig City officials and Granger Group representatives at The Reserve groundbreaking.
“It has been a process,” Gary Granger said, adding that the team had to work through several concepts.
“The city did a new master plan, envisioning that Wilson Road would primarily be a bedroom community and not so much commercial,” Granger said during the open house about the history of the property. “Believe it or not at the time, we were not so crazy about it. We wanted to do commercial because we thought with the mall, Coscto, and all the other things just a couple of miles from here, we thought all that commercial would work all the way back to the expressway.”
Granger said the team had to take a step back and reconsider how the property would look as a bedroom community and he now believes the development could help “southwest Grand Rapids to really be on the map.”
“Most people think about where is the place to be in Grand Rapids and most people think the major market opportunity is northeast,” Gary Granger said. “We are exactly on the opposite side of that. I happen to believe this will be the premier housing destination.”
Granger Group, which has completed several projects in the Metro Village located around Metro Health University of Michigan Health, expects to complete The Reserve by 2021.
The Michigan State Police (MSP) Rockford Post recently announce the 3rd Annual Citizens’ Academy, which will start Oct. 22 and end Dec.17. There are a limited number of positions available at this time.
The 8-week academy will give citizens the opportunity to become familiar with the mission and operation of the MSP, understand the procedures troopers follow, increase their awareness of law enforcement’s role in the community, and get to know personnel at the Rockford Post.
This academy will be focused on the Michigan State Police patrol efforts in Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon Counties; and is open to the adult residents of the post area.
The eight week academy will meet at the Michigan State Police Rockford Post., 345 Northland Dr. NE, Rockford, MI, 49341, on Monday evenings from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. A graduation ceremony will be held on Dec.17, following the final night of instruction. Individuals who are interested in attending the 2018 Citizens’ Academy, Session III, should contact Trooper Martin Miller of the Rockford Post at (616) 312-5137 or via email at millerm36@michigan.gov to receive an application. Applications should be submitted as soon as possible, and the class will be filled on a first come, first served basis.
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).
On Friday the 13th of July 2018, a kind-hearted, cat-trappin’ citizen contacted Dr. Jen about a pair of friendly brothers that she had on a waiting list for another local shelter. Back in June the duo was brought in to Focus on Ferals after having been taken from a large population of stray cats roaming around on the Northeast side of town; they were neutered, tested and started on vaccines in hopes of eventually going into their adoption program.
But one of the boys (born in early 2016) had evidently suffered a trauma so severe to his side that his body wall ruptured, leaving him with a huge herniation that continued to grow over time; in fact it had been present for so long (probably over two years) that the repair attempt by his initial vet was ineffective. So when Dr. Jen was asked to give a second opinion on the case, she offered to take the brothers in to our program and set out to fix that humongous hernia (in the words of his rescuer).
As it turns out, not only was Hamish’s intra-abdominal fat pooching out underneath the skin through the tear in his body wall, but his poor spleen had become adherent to the opening, so it had to be surgically removed in order to close the defect. However, we are thrilled to report that with layers of sutures, cage rest and many crossed fingers, Hamish’s hernia is a thing of the past.
Hamish was nicknamed ‘The Handful’ as he can be as bratty as he is cute. He is a door diver, likes to rile the other cats up by picking fights or causing them to go after him due to his over-exuberance—he is constantly in motion. We can imagine that it feels downright awesome to be able to move around without having an internal organ squish out your side, so we do give the guy a bit of a break on this.
He LOVES people, but when he has had enough, he will swipe or swat to let you know that your services are no longer needed. He could live with other cats as long as he can be the dominant one, but small kids we feel are out of the picture; we do however suspect a dog might be right up his alley.
For safety measures, his owner will need a two-door entry and exit system as he is constantly darting out into our lobby (we have a triple door system. We have had quite a bit of success with taming the wild beast running wild by squirting him with a short burst of water from our ‘naughty kitty’ bottle; slowly but surely he IS learning to play nice with the others.
Overall we feel he is somewhat of an overgrown kitten and is just now getting to live the life he had always wanted: crazy, carefree and with reckless abandon (versus abandonment).
And he is STINKIN’ CUTE!
More about Hamish:
Large
Domestic Short Hair — Tabby (Tiger-striped)
Adult
Male
House-trained
Vaccinations up to date
Neutered
Not declawed
Good in a home with other cats; older children
Want to adopt Hamish? 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.
How does a state like Michigan keep its talented university graduates who are from overseas? How do Michigan-educated international students hook up with employers for internships and eventual employment? Feel Like You Belong welcomes Jeff Towns, Executive Director of Michigan’s Global Talent Retention Initiative (GTRI) along with Trinidad-born Yasha Nath, a Michigan college grad with the kinds of skills the state is clamoring for. Encouraging news for international students who want to stay in the state after graduation as well as for U.S. employers looking to navigate the unfamiliar waters of hiring foreign-born employees.
“It’s relatively easy to act nice and normal in front of a crowd, or in public. The tricky part is doing it in private.”
~Robert Black
Where are they coming from?
Where are they going?
We really want to know.
After serving more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of July, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) topped that with an August that served close to 300,000 passengers.
August marks the eighth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 61 of the last 68 months. August 2018 was the busiest August ever, with passenger numbers up 17.8-percent year-over-year.
Through August 2018, GFIA has already surpassed its annual total reached in 2012, with 2,176,525 passengers served in 2018. Read more here.
It’s about time:
Kent County appoints
first female sheriff
Kent County administration announced Thursday that Undersheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young has been appointed Sheriff to fill the unexpired term of Sheriff Larry Stelma, who retires on Nov. 1 of this year.
Two individuals applied for the position — Undersheriff LaJoye-Young and Lt. Marc Burns. Kent County Chief Probate Judge David M. Murkowski chaired the statutorily mandated selection appointment committee and served along with Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker and Kent County Clerk Lisa Posthumus-Lyons. The committee’s decision was unanimous. Read more here.
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Secrets revealed
Manufacturers throughout West Michigan are holding community open houses and student tours that showcase their facilities and career options. The tours are part of Manufacturing Week 2018, which runs through Oct. 5, 2018. More than 100 manufacturers are hosting more than 1,000 students during this year’s event.
According to Talent 2025’s 2017 West Michigan Talent Assessment and Outlook, manufacturing is the largest industry in West Michigan, accounting for more than 20 percent of all jobs in the region. Manufacturing has added more than 38,000 jobs since 2009, a growth rate of 33.3 percent. Read about it here.
Fun Fact:
51% of people think stormy weather affects cloud computing.
Beth Steenwyk, the consultant hired to review the regional Center-based Special Education programs, says it makes sense for Grand Rapids Public Schools to transfer responsibility for these programs to Kent ISD.
‘Steenwyk says shifting the center programs creates an opportunity for educators to take advantage of the latest research and technology that’s available for special education programs.
‘The transfer of the center programs to Kent ISD makes sense if one looks at how special education has evolved over the past 45 years, Steenwyk says. (see related SNN story:Leaders begin transition of center programs) Legislation requiring special education programs was first adopted in Michigan and the U.S. in the early 1970s, she explained.
‘When state and federal laws first mandated special education for children with developmental disabilities and cognitive impairments, urban districts like Grand Rapids had the most resources to provide those services because of their size and central location, Steenwyk says.
“Special education programs and standards have become more complex thanks to civil rights legislation and federal mandates that have established those students as a “protected class.”
Today, urban districts have a greater need to “hyper-focus” on their core educational missions, Steenwyk said. At the same time, growing suburban districts are sending the centers more students with “super-complex” needs, she says.
Most special education students attend schools in their districts. But some students with complex needs, those with severe impairments or complicated medical issues, ages 3 to 26, are enrolled in the centers, which were created specifically to meet their more complex needs. Early childhood and oral deaf programs provide services to children younger than 3 at home.
Most of the buildings containing 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. The GRPS School Board voted in August to turn over operations of these programs to Kent ISD beginning with the new school year in 2019. These specialized programs serve nearly 1,400 students from throughout Kent County and part of Barry County (according to Kent ISD).
Special education consultant Beth Steenwyk
Listening to Parent and Staff Concerns
Steenwyk, a Calvin College graduate who began her career at Lincoln Developmental Center 40 years ago, is midway through her review of the center-based programs. Steenwyk is the former deputy director of the Office of Special Education and Early Intervention Services for the Michigan Department of Education. The Mecosta County resident consults with special education programs throughout the U.S.
She was hired in May at the request of the regional superintendents association, with the support of GRPS, after questions were raised by parents of students attending the centers and by staff. (see related SNN story:Let’s review center-based programs) So far, Steenwyk has conducted more than 60 hours of town hall meetings and interviews with parents and staff. She recently finished focus group sessions with smaller groups of parents and staff. She expects to send the district her final report and recommendations in early 2019.
During recent focus group sessions, parents told Steenwyk they are troubled by a lack of communication and inconsistent classroom experiences that sometimes overlook the students’ needs in favor of broad-based program requirements.
“Communications seems to be a really hot topic,” Steenwyk explained. Some of the parents said they wished for greater feedback and communications about their children from staff members. Others complained that staff members talked down to them.
But while some parents complained about a lack of feedback from staff, others praised their child’s teacher, saying they were kept in the loop. One teacher set up a Twitter account that included reports during the day, a parent said.
“They’re kind of all over the board as to how they communicate,” Steenwyk told the parents.
During one focus group with 14 staffers, Steenwyk heard complaints about mandatory professional development requirements imposed by the district that did not meet their classroom needs.
Steenwyk says she plans to personally visit each classroom and provide the ISD with specific recommendations for each program. More information, a timeline, FAQs and updates can be found on the Center Program Review pages.
“There are things going on around this country (in special education) that will stop you dead in your tracks,” says Steenwyk. High-tech companies like Microsoft are focused on special education programs as a new frontier. “There are some really exciting technologies emerging out of this space,” says Steenwyk.
This can be “an opportunity for the county to say, ‘This is who we are.’”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
By Lori Nieboer, PA-C, MPH,Physician Assistant at Union High School Health Center
Parents dread “the talk.” Conversations about sex can feel uncomfortable, but remember… if your kids aren’t getting this information from you, they are likely getting bad information from friends, the TV or the internet. So, here are some tips for making sure you are prepared to discuss this hot topic with your kids at all ages:
It’s never too early to start. Find opportunities to talk to your kids to normalize these conversations.
Keep it simple; you don’t have to share it all at one time.
Use real names for private parts.
Keep your kid’s age in mind.
Young kids – talk about how boys and girls are different or name body parts.
Older kids – answer questions honestly and in small doses.
Look for teachable moments: a pregnant neighbor or a scene on TV can start a discussion.
Share with your children what your feelings and views are on sex.
Make yourself available; listen more than you talk.
Take time to explain what makes a relationship healthy.
Find a friend or family member you trust that your child can also go to with questions.
If you don’t know an answer to a question, be honest, look it up with your child and learn together.
Social consciousness is the new buzzword in the business world with many companies touting how they are making a difference either environmentally or socially. But how do consumers know that a business is actually making good on these promises? Well, if they are like Kentwood’s Valley City Electronic Recycling (VCER), they go through the rigorous process to be B Corp certified.
“Valley City Electronic Recycling is an electronic recycling and data security company,” said VCER President Jason Kehr. “I have always believed in what B Corp stands for and thought that our company would fit very nicely under that umbrella.”
B Corporation or B Lab certification is a private certification issued to for-profit companies by B Lab, a global nonprofit organization. Through its certification process, companies must not only show that they are reaching its social and environmental goals, but show it is having an overall positive impact.
A Valley City Electronic Recycling employee disassembles various electronic items.
“We qualified by taking the B Corp assessment test as the first step,” Kehr said. “The test covers various components of your organization: your social and environmental advocacy, your work force development and how you conserve resources.”
Because local businesses tend to be more socially and environmentally aware, one of the biggest advocates for B Corp certification has been LocalFirst.
“B Corp is certification that businesses can achieve by taking assessments that measure their social, environmental and community impact and they can use that when marketing their project or service and it really shows the community, their customers, their stakeholders that the business is committed to social and environmental responsibility with their operations and business practices,” said Hanna Schulze, development manager for LocalFirst.
B Corp has a set of performance standards and legal structures that assures a consumer that what a company says it is doing is what it is doing.
“When you go into a store and you see a million types of ketchup, many of which say ‘all natural.’ But what does that mean?” Schulze said. “But when you see one that says certified organic, there are certain standards that a food item has to hit or have to be in order to be certified as organic by the USDA.You are making a decision knowing what is in that food. B Corp certification is similar to that.”
Some computers are refinished for resale.
Valley City Electronic Recycling set its sights on becoming a B Corp since through its work process the company was already achieving many of its environmental and social goals. Of course the very nature of the company, recycling electronic components, helps the environment.
“We have always employed the people, planet, profit model of business and it fits very nicely in our industry but it is also evident in some of the other things we do as a company, one being hiring returning citizens,” Kehr said.
Valley City Electronic Recycling is among an elite group since there are only about a couple dozen B Corps in Michigan, of which 19 are located in West Michigan. To remain in that group, Valley City will have to go through recertification every three years.
“It’s good for our customers in a sense that it further educates our customers in the community as to what our core values are as a company and how those core values drive our business,” Kehr said. “It is really an educational play for the community. They don’t even know that recycling electrics is even a thing. They know they shouldn’t throw it in the landfill but at the same time they don’t know what those outlets are and B Corp will help us get that info out to more people.”
To learn more about Valley City Electronic Reycycling, visit valleycityer.com. For more about B Corps, visit LocalFirst’s website localfirst.com.
On the latest episode of WKTV Journal: In Focus, we present in-depth interviews with both sides of the current conflict between the Kent County Commission, and Sheriff’s Department, and Movimiento Cosecha GR over the county Sheriff’s department contract with the federal Immigration and Custom Enforcement agency, known as ICE.
The contract between the Sheriff’s Department and ICE relates to the processing and holding in the county jail of persons suspected of crimes who also have an unclear immigration status.
Cosecha is a national nonviolent movement fighting for the dignity, respect and permanent protection of all 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States.
Early in September, the Kent County Board of Commissioners took the highly unusual step of recessing, relocating and excluding the public from its regular monthly meeting due to the continued protest of board meetings by members of Movimiento Cosecha GR and Rapid Response to ICE. Commission leadership say it does not have the legal authority to end the contract or direct the Sheriff to do so. But members of the protesting groups say the commission will not even conduct good-faith discussions with them on the issue.
WKTV brings you both sides of this important and divisive issue.
“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.
After serving more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of July, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) topped that with an August that served close to 300,000 passengers.
August marks the eighth record-breaking month in a row for 2018, and the airport has seen growth in 61 of the last 68 months. August 2018 was the busiest August ever, with passenger numbers up 17.8-percent year-over-year.
Through August 2018, GFIA has already surpassed its annual total reached in 2012, with 2,176,525 passengers served in 2018.
“To know we are continuing to break records of years past sets us at an amazing pace to finish out the rest of 2018, and we expect to hit our three million passenger mark,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are thankful to have a supportive West Michigan community that is not only flying in and out of the Ford Airport, but that seem to be telling their friends near and far what an easy, efficient, and customer-focused airport we have.”
August 2017 saw 247,986 passengers, while August 2018 topped that in serving 292,135 – the first time GFIA has served more than a quarter-million passengers in the month of August.
Airline Weekly forecasted the Ford Airport as the second fastest-growing airport in the U.S. among the 100 busiest airports for the Q3 summer peak, according to data from Diio, an aviation data, tools, and technology product. The ranking was based upon a projected 21-percent increase in year-over-year growth.
“Our airline partners continue to invest here and are adding more service with more routes, and larger aircraft to accommodate our growing passenger traffic,” said Gill. “We expect the record numbers and trends to continue as we wrap up summer and continue into fall.”
GFIA has invested in new facilities to accommodate the growing traffic by recently completing Phase One of the Gateway Transformation Project – an upgrade in space, retail, food and beverage, restrooms, finishes, amenities, and customer service offerings. The project’s main feature is the consolidated passenger security checkpoint which centralized and combined security screening to one main checkpoint in the Airport. Construction also included new terrazzo flooring, lighting fixtures, pre and post security business centers, a military welcome center, kids play areas, and much more.
Phase Two of the Gateway Transformation Project is slated to begin in Fall 2018 with construction taking place at the airline ticket counters, baggage claim area, and ‘front of house’ area.
“As we continue to grow in traffic it is imperative that our facilities keep up with our passenger demand,” said Gill. “Our passengers keep coming back because we listen to their wants and needs, and as they do we will continue to do our part to improve our amenities, technology, customer service and infrastructure. We are excited to see what the future holds, and we hope to add more growth in the years to come.”
Manufacturers throughout West Michigan are gearing up for community open houses and student tours that will showcase their facilities and career options. The tours are part of Manufacturing Week 2018, which runs from Oct. 1-5, 2018. More than 100 manufacturers are expected to host more than 1,000 students during this year’s event.
According to Talent 2025’s 2017 West Michigan Talent Assessment and Outlook, manufacturing is the largest industry in West Michigan, accounting for more than 20 percent of all jobs in the region. Manufacturing has added more than 38,000 jobs since 2009, a growth rate of 33.3 percent.
Manufacturing Week is part of the nationwide Manufacturing Day® movement, created to change people’s outdated images of the industry and to inspire the next generation of manufacturers.
“My freshmen students are able to experience and observe modern technology and equipment at Dicastal — one of the world’s cleanest foundry environments, which is only 20 miles from their homes,” said Jeff Mercer, a teacher with Tri County Area Schools.
“Dicastal could have built their beautiful plant anywhere in the world, and they chose Montcalm County. Manufacturing Week shows students that they have abundant opportunities in their own backyard.”
“Collaborating with manufacturers [during Manufacturing Week] shows students all of the countless career opportunities available in manufacturing,” said Angie Huyghe, finance and human resources manager at Swoboda, Inc., a Manufacturing Week participant since 2015.
Students aren’t the only ones invited to Manufacturing Week activities. The following Grand Rapids-area events open to the community:
Paragon D&E: facility tour and presentation on Tuesday, Oct. 2 from 8:30-9am.
Resource MFG: job fair on Thursday, Oct. 4 from 9am-12pm.
Walker Tool & Die: facility tour and presentation on Thursday, Oct. 4 at 6pm.
Custom Profile: facility tour on Friday, Oct. 5 at 12pm.
Fisher Unitech: presentation on Thursday, Oct. 18 from 9am-3:30pm.
To see all West Michigan Manufacturing Week events, visit mfgday.com.
Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.
Kent County Undersheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young, shown from a 2016 interview at the WKTV Journal studio, has been named to be Sheriff. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org
Kent County administration announced Thursday that Undersheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young has been appointed Sheriff to fill the unexpired term of Sheriff Larry Stelma, who retires on Nov. 1 of this year.
Two individuals applied for the position — Undersheriff LaJoye-Young and Lt. Marc Burns. Kent County Chief Probate Judge David M. Murkowski chaired the statutorily mandated selection appointment committee and served along with Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker and Kent County Clerk Lisa Posthumus-Lyons. The committee’s decision was unanimous.
“The committee appreciates both candidates interest in the position and their commitment to law enforcement,” said Judge Murkowski in supplied information. “Lt. Burns has served the Kent County Sheriff’s Department well and has an impressive resume.”
“However, today it is an honor for the committee to appoint Undersheriff LaJoye-Young to the position of Kent County Sheriff,” Murkowski said. “She possesses an unparalleled knowledge of the operation and procedures of the Sheriff’s Department, having worked in every division and served in every rank in the Department.
“Furthermore, the Undersheriff enjoys wide-based community support and commands the respect of every law enforcement agency across the state of Michigan and beyond. She has demonstrated throughout her career a great capacity and ability to lead and possesses an unwavering enthusiasm for the administration of justice.”
She will also be the county’s first female Sheriff.
“The fact Michelle LaJoye-Young will serve as the first female Sheriff for Kent County serves as the perfect exclamation point to a truly momentous day,” Murkowski said.
Kent County Undersheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young’s appointment to Sheriff will be effective Nov. 1.
“The prize and the voting are really just mechanisms. It comes back to building a creative culture in West Michigan.”
~ Rick DeVos in a 2011 speech about ArtPrize
Don’t Forget to Vote!
If you haven’t made it downtown to ArtPrize, there is lots to see including the WKTV VOCIES trailer which is recording artists’ stories for the next two weekends near the corner of Lyon and Monroe. Local filmmaker and longtime volunteer Rose Hammond is showing a trailer of her upcoming documentary “Between the Trees,” about the communities of Woodland Park and Idlewild at the Grand Rapids African American Museum, which is on the short list for best venue. Also check out Kentwood resident Meochia Thompson’s “Hugs” near the city center and Nidal Kanaan’s “Blue Courage” at Flanagan’s Irish Pub, which features the Wyoming K-9 unit. Round 1 voting ends tomorrow at midnight with the Top 20 Public Vote announced on Sunday. ArtPrize runs through Oct. 7.
Keeping it Real
Missy Young
Self-run cars. Robots taking care of the children. It all sounds a little sci-fi, but it is quickly becoming a reality. On Wednesday, Oct. 3, Switch, Inc. Chief Information Officer Missy Young will discuss artificial intelligence in her presentation “Artificial Intelligence: Keeping the Human in Humanity,” which is part of the Grand Valley State University’s Peter F. Secchia Breakfast Lecture. The program, which is at 7:30 a.m., is at the L. William Seidman Center on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
The Leaves Are Changing – Yea!
Henderson Castle and Winery in Kalamazoo
Weather gurus are predicting that the leaves will change later this year with our area being in prime color around Oct. 20. With that in mind, now is the time to start planning that fall color tour. The West Michigan Tourist Association has a plethora of bed and breakfasts ideas in West Michigan that can make any weekend trip a special adventure. So it doesn’t matter if you stay in Kalamazoo’s Henderson Castle Inn and Winery or Saugatuck’s Sherwood Forest Bed and Breakfast, you are certain to see Michigan in full color.
Fun Fact:
1.32 Acres
That is the size of the average football field, which is 120 yards in length and 53 and half yards in width. Times the two numbers together and the total square feet is 57,600. One acre equals about 43,560 square feet, making a football field about 1.32 acres. Now that you know this little fun fact, go out and enjoy some football as many local teams will be squaring off tonight. WKTV will be at the Kelloggsville vs. Godwin Heights game, which is certain to be a good match up.
Trick-or-treaters are invited to take part in the City of Kentwood’s annual Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 20.
The free event will be held at the Kentwood Department of Public Works facility, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE, from 10 a.m. to noon. Family friendly activities will include hayrides, face painting, a bounce house and games.
The festival will also feature the community fall-favorite, Trunk or Treat, where various City and community vehicles decorate and fill their trunks with candy.
Residents will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk out of the 30 organizations and community groups that will be handing out candy and other treats throughout the morning.
Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and bring their own candy-collection bag for the activity.
“Our Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat event gives families a safe and fun environment to take part in Halloween activities,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “It’s been exciting watching the event grow with more residents and businesses attending every year.
“All are welcome to join us Oct. 20 for what we hope will be our biggest turnout yet.”
Local businesses and community groups wishing to participate in Trunk or Treat can register for free online. The deadline to sign up is 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12.
Helpers are needed from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Individuals who are interested in volunteering can sign up online.
If you’re arguing with someone, anger can be like earplugs. It keeps you from hearing what the other person is saying and finding middle ground. (For Spectrum Health Beat)
By Robert Preidt, HealthDay
Anger isn’t just an emotional reaction—it can affect you physically, too.
It’s been shown to raise your risk for heart disease and other problems related to stress—like sleep trouble, digestion woes and headaches.
That makes it important, then, to diffuse your anger. Start by figuring out what it is that makes you angry.
Researchers from George Mason University, in Virginia, studied just that, and identified 5 common triggers:
Other people.
Distress—psychological and physical.
Demands you put on yourself.
Your environment.
Unknown sources.
Anger was more intense, the investigators found, when people were provoked by issues with other people or by influences that couldn’t be pinpointed.
Once you’ve identified the sources of your anger, take steps to change how your deal with it, the researchers suggested.
Decades ago, people often were encouraged to let their anger out. Primal screams and pounding pillows were suggested tactics. Today? Not so much.
Studies have shown that therapies that involve letting anger out in a rage don’t really help. They might even make you more angry.
Still, it’s important to not keep anger bottled up. But, managing it can keep you from saying or doing things you might regret once the anger has passed.
What to do?
Start by becoming a calmer person in general. Practice a relaxation technique every day—yoga or mindfulness meditation, for instance.
Also develop an anger strategy that you can draw on when you’re in the moment. The idea is to interrupt your response to anger before it gets out of hand and to have a menu of healthier ways to express your feelings.
Tactics like time-outs, deep breathing and self-talk can help you calm down and think before acting. Longer-term, reducing your stress level and building empathy skills can help.
If you’re arguing with someone, anger can be like earplugs. It keeps you from hearing what the other person is saying and finding middle ground. So instead of acting defensive and trading barbs, hit the pause button.
Ask the person to repeat what was said. Then reflect on it before you speak again. Try to figure out the real reason for the argument.
This lets you channel the energy of anger into finding a solution.
When you’re in a situation you can’t fix—like being stuck in traffic on your way to an appointment—use your rational mind to put the situation in perspective. It’s inconvenient, but more than likely won’t affect your well-being long-term.
If you find that you’re angry at forces you can’t identify, consider talking to a mental health therapist. Working together should help you uncover the root of your unhappiness and anger.
We recently asked Beth, a talent development instructor at West Michigan Works!, for some insider information on their free workshops. Beth has been teaching workshops for seven years and one of her favorite workshops to teach is Cover Letter Writing. This is what she told us about the workshop:
What is Cover Letter Writing?
Cover Letter Writing is a free, one-hour workshop open to the public. This workshop provides job seekers with the skills to craft a strong cover letter that presents them as a strong candidate for the job.
Why is this such an important workshop for job seekers?
It is crucial in today’s job market to understand how employers use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to screen cover letters and resumes for certain key words and skills related to the job. Job seekers need to know how to tailor their cover letter for ATS screening to get their application materials in front of an actual human. Participants will leave with a good understanding of:
what an ATS is and how they work. INSIDER TIP: the website jobscan.co gives an inside look at how ATS scans your application materials for key words.
the importance of using specific skills and keywords to tailor your cover letter for each job you apply for.
the basic format and content of a cover letter.
how to create an opening statement that hooks the reader and makes them want to keep reading. INSIDER TIP: If the first few sentences sound generic, it won’t set you apart from other candidates.Start with whatever you feel is the most impressive aspect of our experience (relevant skills or abilities, year of experience, etc.).
What is something job seekers tell you they were surprised to learn in the workshop?
Cover letters should not be intimidating or seem daunting! Once you have your first cover letter written, it is a lot easier to change or update key words/skills as you go. Remember that the skills you have in your 20s may not be the same skills you want to highlight in your 30s, 40s, and so on. Your cover letter will always be a working document.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) today announced results of its drinking water/well testing of 28 private residences as showing non-detect levels for the presence of PFOA and PFOS, the polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compounds for which the State of Michigan has established criteria.
Property owners have been informed of the non-detect results, and the Airport has also shared results with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), the Kent County Health Department (KCHD), and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
The non-detect levels are established by State of Michigan cleanup criteria for groundwater, as protection for drinking water. The State of Michigan’s criteria for groundwater applies to two particular compounds, PFOA and PFOS, and is set at 70 parts per trillion (ppt) combined (https://www.michigan.gov/pfasresponse).
Of the 44 property owners contacted for drinking water/well testing, 28 participated, with all 28 of the wells tested showing non-detect levels for PFOA, PFOS, and 10 other compounds. (see attached results table). One property showed low detectable presences for two PFAS compounds, PFHxA (5.45 ppt) and PFBS (6.43 ppt); but these compounds are not part of the State of Michigan cleanup criteria for groundwater, and MDHHS officials (in concurrence with MDEQ and KCHD) have confirmed that these low-level results do not pose any health concerns.
Based on these findings, the Airport will now focus on continuing its multi-step evaluation process, including completion of its property site analysis and related report to the MDEQ.
“We applaud the Airport’s efforts in going above and beyond the requirements to conduct off-site residential testing, and based on the data and related results, we concur there is no need to continue additional residential testing at this time,” explained Adam London, RS, MPA, Administrative Health Officer, KCHD.
The non-detect private drinking water/well testing results follow GFIA’s June 15, 2018 news that the Airport groundwater results for the presence of PFAS on airport property fall below the State of Michigan PFAS health advisory level and cleanup criteria.
Although the Airport’s groundwater results were below health advisory levels, the Airport went beyond regulatory requirements by conducting off-site groundwater testing of private drinking water wells in the area that is located northeast of the Airport’s property – the direction of groundwater flow indicated by GFIA’s investigation.
“We pride ourselves on being good neighbors and doing what is in the community’s best interest,” said Jim Gill, A.A.E., IAP, Gerald R. Ford International Airport President & CEO. “We appreciate all of the cooperation and support of the dozens of private property owners we have worked with in this additional testing phase. We also appreciate the continued partnership with the MDEQ, MDHHS, and KCHD in keeping residents informed and working with us in our testing process.”
“Learning about PFAS and its impacts has become an evolving national conversation, taking place at airports, military bases and other facilities across the country,” said Gill. “Our commitment to environmental stewardship and our community has always been part of the Airport’s foundation and that commitment continues to guide our work moving forward.”
Here ArtPrize piece, also titled “In Between the Trees,” is located at the Grand Rapids African American Museum, 87 Monroe Center NW. In her ArtPrize entry, Hammond has the trailer and three canvas pieces that let the the individuals who created the communities of Idelwild and Woodland Park tell their stories. For a look at Hammond’s entry, click here.
Hammond will be presenting a discussion about her work Wednesday, Sept. 26, at 6 p.m. at the museum.
Hammond said she is thrilled to be showing her work at the Grand Rapids African American Museum, which was one of five venues on the ArtPrize Juried Short list for best venue. The venue features eight artists including Hammond and Heather Johnson, whose piece “But Did You Die?” made the jurors’ short list for best 2-D work.
The City of Kentwood will continue a yard debris drop-off site this fall.
By City of Kentwood
After receiving positive feedback from the community, the City of Kentwood will continue to pilot its brush drop-off program this fall.
The program will run concurrently with the City’s annual leaf drop-off site at the Kentwood Department of Public Works, 5068 Breton Ave. SE, from Saturday, Oct. 13 through Saturday, Dec. 8. The sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
The initial pilot of the program collected more than 2,640 cubic yards of brush, comparable to the average volume of a hot air balloon.
“The brush drop-off site was well-received this summer, and residents expressed an interest in us offering it again this fall,” said John Gorney, director of public works. “We’re hopeful that by providing both brush and leaf collection services at the Department of Public Works, residents will find it convenient to take care of a bulk of their autumn lawn care needs in one place.”
Beyond helping make yard maintenance easier, leaf and brush collections services also help residents stay in compliance with City ordinances. The accumulation of leaves and debris within the lot line of a property or upon the adjacent right-of-way is prohibited in the City of Kentwood, as is burning leaves and brush.
The brush drop-off site will accept brush, sticks, tree limbs and logs. Materials that cannot be accepted include: trash, dirt, concrete, asphalt, tires, rocks, stones, construction materials, glass or metal.
The services are available to Kentwood residents only; anyone wishing to drop off items must show proof of residency.
Looking for a home-away-from-home? With the West Michigan area’s bed and breakfasts, you’re sure to find a warm and welcoming place to spend the night. You’re in good hands when you visit these cozy retreats, as you’re served breakfast each morning and retire to a comfy bed.
Book a stay at one of the area’s most popular bed and breakfasts this fall, the Henderson Castle Inn and Winery in Kalamazoo, for the vacation of a lifetime. You are just minutes away from theaters, shopping, and a vibrant nightlife of downtown, yet secluded enough to enjoy a quiet night free from the noise of the city. Start the day with an incredible breakfast and then soak in the rooftop hot tub while taking in the breathtaking view of downtown Kalamazoo.
When staying at Yelton Manor Bed and Breakfast in South Haven, you can expect impeccable hospitality, lavish gardens, relaxing decks, wholesome food, and spontaneous fun. Just a stone’s throw from the beach and walkable to everything in the laid-back resort of South Haven, this is the perfect destination for your next weekend away.
White Rabbit Inn B&B in Lakeside is every couple’s dream for a romantic weekend away. Surrounded by woods and Lake Michigan, it is the perfect spot to go and escape the hustle and bustle of your everyday life.
Gordon Beach Inn, Union Pier
Recognized by the State of Michigan as a historical site, Gordon Beach Inn in Union Pier should be on your bucket list of places to stay this fall. They have great on-site restaurants and convenient beach access. You can even bring along your furry friend to this pet-friendly hotspot!
Sherwood Forest B&B in Saugatuck invites you to their beautiful wooded setting where they are situated just steps away from Lake Michigan. End the day watching the sunset from their relaxing wraparound porch to complete your perfect getaway.
Serendipity Bed and Breakfast in Saugatuck provides guests with countless amenities to suit every need you may have. Start your day’s adventure with good food and even better company at the daily complimentary breakfast. After breakfast, take on the town, just steps away! Unique shops, artist-owned galleries, great restaurants, the boat docks, boardwalk, and more will have your day filled up with one-of-a-kind adventures.
You will not regret booking your stay at Twin Oaks Inn in Saugatuck. Right in the heart of downtown near countless shops, restaurants, art galleries, and marinas, it makes for the ideal weekend getaway. The inn is also just a short drive to beautiful orchards and wineries, perfect for bringing in the fall season.
National House Inn, Marshall
The city of Marshall is home to some of the best inns and bed and breakfasts in the state, including the celebrated National House Inn, the oldest operating bed and breakfast in Michigan. Their 15 rooms offer modern luxuries with a 19th-century flavor. Your stay at the National House Inn is only a few steps from downtown, museums, shopping, and restaurants.
The capital city of Lansing is the perfect destination for any B&B lover. The city is filled with unique and charming spots perfect for a weekend away that will leave you speechless. These destinations are known for great hospitality and will give you the feeling of time standing still.
Book your stay at the Maplewood Hotel in Saugatuck, a unique boutique hotel with over 150 years of experience in providing nothing short of exceptional hospitality to guests from all over the state.
Wickwood Inn, Saugatuck
The Amble Inn in Fennville is the perfect place to take in the award-winning Art Coast! After checking out nearby galleries, shops, and beaches take the time to relax in a rustic setting and forget all of your worries.
Stop by the Wickwood Inn in Saugatuck for your next weekend getaway or family vacation. The beautiful and cozy inn is stocked with original art, antiques, and an impressive library to help you unwind by the crackling fireplace.
From Sweden to the USA, they’ve shaken hands with the mightiest in both lands. They’ve saved energy and published books. And along the way, Anders and Ewa Rydåker have planted roots and learned what it means to belong in a place. Join us for a chat with Alan’s favorite immigrants!
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).
This summer (2018) has brought us an overabundance of kitties with injured legs, so when a Kentwood resident called the clinic asking for help with a cat whom she thought had a bone sticking out of its leg, Dr. Jen had them bring the kitty right down. As it turns out, this darling little girl (born in early 2017) had suffered a traumatic injury to her right rear leg, but the amputation had occurred some time ago, leaving behind a stump just above where her hock (ankle) should have been.
She did come with heavy fleas, a horrendous case of ear mites, a puncture wound on her neck that wasn’t healing well, and sadly in the early stages of pregnancy which Dr. Jen discovered during spay surgery. We can’t imagine what this poor cat went through, but thankfully her skin and bones healed, and even though she is a tripod without a foot, she is fearless in her fight and fabulous with her ferocity for fun!
From the get go NOTHING has slowed her down: she runs, leaps, bounds, twirls, kicks and literally jumps for joy, so giving her the name Rockette seemed to fit her perfectly. The observations of our shelter and cat care managers mirrored Dr. Jen’s impression of exuberant Rockette:
“Our girl so super sweet! She has made herself at home since the minute she arrived at the shelter. Her injury doesn’t hold her back at all; she climbs, runs, and jumps just fine. She can be very sassy with the other cats so she might enjoy being an only cat. She would do very well with kids though!”
“Despite her missing part of a leg, she is purr-petually on the move. She has a very sweet personality and craves attention. While she’s not one to be held for long, she will hop up on your lap and soak up whatever attention are willing to give. I love how she holds her own against the 4-legged cats, occasionally swatting, but yet playing nicely with them MOST of the time. Loves the laser show, and sprawling out on the toddler beds. Would do well in a home with another cat or two, but I think dogs may be a bit too much.”
We’re making it our mission to find our goofy girl a home that has children that can match her energy and enthusiasm for life, yet a kid or two who also wants a cuddly companion when playtime is over; we don’t think this will be a difficult task at all. Rockette is going to be kicking up her heels (er, heel) once we find her a family of her own, and we simply can’t wait!
More about Rockette:
Medium
Domestic Short Hair (Gray/Blue/Silver/White)
Adult
Female
House-trained
Vaccinations up to date
Spayed
Not declawed
Good in a home with other cats; children
Want to adopt Rockette? 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.
"Art is not a cleverness contest. It is an honesty contest to hone the capacity to truly be that which you are."
~ Ran Ortner, ArtPrize's first public vote winner
Take a ‘leep’ into art
“Pink House” by Kendra Postma
The Leep Art Gallery, in the Postma Center at the Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, will be featuring the work of Kendra Postma in the exhibit titled “These Are A Few of My Favorite Things.”
“My paintings often take on a dreamlike or spiritual aura to me. Inspiration often comes from walks on the beach with the water lapping at my feet and fills me with a sense of peace, or sometimes it’s my chickens which influence what I create. I always have an intense desire or need to create something that nourishes my soul,” Postma said.
The exhibit runs Oct. 3 – Jan. 2. Find out more here.
Better Homes
The Frey Foundation is currently seeking innovative ideas to accelerate access to sustainable, quality housing opportunities in Kent County. The foundation is specifically focused on addressing housing access for people who are employed yet may be struggling to make ends meet.
The foundation will award a grant of up to $150,000 to an agency or partnership that submits an innovative, actionable plan, concept or collaboration that effectively reduces the number of ALICE families paying more than 30 percent of monthly income for housing. Submissions will be evaluated, and an idea selected, by an external, multi-sector advisory committee coordinated by the Grand Valley Metro Council.
Ideas are currently being accepted online. The deadline for submission is Oct. 29. More information is available at freyfdn.org/housinginnovation. Go here to learn more.
But Some Swing In It
Glenn Bulthuis with the Hark Up horns
The Van Singel Fine Arts Center has announced its upcoming season which kicks off with Swing Night at the Van Singel featuring Glenn Bulthuis and the Hark Up Big Band. The event is Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. with tickets $18 for adults and $12 for students (high school and younger. Click here, for more information.
St. Cecilia Music Center executive director Cathy Holbrook, speaking recently at the formal announcement of the center’s 2018-19 season, explained why so many musical artists — chamber, jazz and now, increasingly, folk — return to the Royce Auditorium stage.
“They rave about the venue and they rave about the audience,” Holbrook said. “They leave feeling really great about their time here.”
The “they” she was talking about could have been the masterful members of The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, or plain-spoken folksinger Pokey LaFarge. But she actually could have been talking about the audience — they, too, generally, feel great about their time spent in the auditorium.
And speaking of a folky Pokey …
St. Cecilia will launch its new season with a Folk Series concert, and return to the Royce stage, by LaFarge as he starts a new solo tour throughout the United States and Europe.
The St. Louis-based singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist will play Thursday, Oct. 4, at 7:30 p.m. LaFarge incorporates elements of early jazz, ragtime, country blues, Western swing and his total uniqueness into his performances. Two of LaFarge’s albums have been named Best Americana Album by the Independent Music Awards.
Last season “Pokey LaFarge charmed our audience with his band … and due to the heartfelt welcome he received, he’ll be returning,” Holbrook said in supplied material. “He’s a fabulous musician and totally engaging entertainer.”
LaFarge’s range is exemplified by his appearing with both Garrison Keillor and Jack White; White, in fact, added LaFarge to his Third Man label and included him as his opening act on one of his tours.
“The Milk Carton Kids” are Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale.” (Supplied)
Four additional Folk Series concerts include The Lone Bellow on Nov. 29; the return of Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn on Feb. 9, 2019; the outstanding, Grammy nominated American indie folk duo the Milk Carton Kids, Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale, on Feb. 28, 2019, this time turning with a full band in support of their new release “All the Things I Did and All the Things I Didn’t Do”; and finally the return of legendary Guitarist Leo Kottke on April 18, 2019.
Jazz Series begins with Arturo’s horn
The four-concert jazz season opens just days after the LaFarge concert with one of the biggest names, and smoothest trumpet sounds, in modern jazz with a visit by Grammy award winning trumpeter Arturo Sandoval on Thursday, Oct. 11.
Arturo Sandoval will be part of the St. Cecilia Music Center’s 2018-19 season. (Supplied)
Sandoval, a 10-time Grammy winnerand protégé of the legendary jazz master Dizzy Gillespie, is Cuban born — with his early-life story told in the HBO movie based on his life, “For Love or Country”, which starred Andy Garcia as Arturo — but his legacy goes beyond simply “Latin” music. And his two latest Grammy award winning albums, “Dear Diz (Every Day I Think of You)” and “Tango — Como Yo Te Siento” are musical proof.
Also on the jazz line-up is the pianist Kenny Barron and his quintet (the jewel of the series, in my humble opinion) on Nov. 1, organist Joey DeFranceso with his quartet “The People” on Feb. 7, 2019, and pianist Benny Green with his trio and 23-year old jazz sensation Veronica Swift on March 7, 2019.
Chamber Music Series begins with ‘Trout Quintet’
The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, which has renewed its multi-year partnership with St. Cecilia, will open its season on Nov. 15 with the first of three concerts featuring the works of Beethoven, Mozart, Mendelssohn, Rachmaninov and Tchaikovsky.
Musicians from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center will join to perform Schubert’s “Trout Quintet”. (Supplied)
The opening night will include pianist Orion Weiss, violinist Paul Huang, violist Paul Neubauer, cellist Keith Robinson, and double bassist Zavier Foley. During the first half, their performance will include duos and trios featuring Beethoven’s variations on Mozart’s melody, Schubert’s creation for the arpeggione (an instrument that no longer exists), and Bottesini’s virtuoso showpiece for violin and double bass. All of the musicians will join after intermission to perform Schubert’s “Trout Quintet”.
Other chamber music concerts on the schedule will be a March 14, 2019, program led by co-artistic director and pianist Wu Han, titled Russian Mastery andfeaturing works by Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev and Arensky. Finally, on April 25, 2019, a program titled From Mendelssohn will bebookended by two works of Mendelssohn from 1845, one brief, the other epic, with works including one by Mendelssohn’s close friend Robert Schumann.
And special in 2019
St. Cecilia, this season, will also celebrate their 135-year history as the oldest arts organization in Grand Rapids and West Michigan. In addition to the concert line-up, there will be two special events to celebrate their 135-year anniversary during March 2019 Women’s History Month.
St. Cecilia’s history is “integrally aligned with women’s history in Grand Rapids,” according to supplied information. The organization was founded in 1883 by nine Grand Rapids women and was the only organization of its kind to be run solely by women. It was through the efforts of the first women of the music center that the historic building on Ransom Avenue was erected in 1894.
St. Cecilia Music Center is located at 24 Ransom NE, Grand Rapids. Tickets to chamber, jazz, and folk concerts are on sale now and can be purchased by phone at 616-459-2224 or online at scmc-online.org.
In art, teacher Adrienne DeMilner’s classroom, a ’60s era-themed mural is taking shape, with far-out events, peace-loving beatniks and iconic locales coming together through painted expressions of the groovy decade.
A dreamy Bob Dylan sits inside the thought bubble of a head-banded hippie. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and Malcolm X appear on what could be interpreted as the road to progress.
The Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, space navigation and popular culture are all memorialized. But an addition is needed, DeMilner and her students decide. Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul who died Aug. 16, will soon croon from the canvas.
The mural is not just a righteous art project, but a visual history to be used by social studies teachers at East Kentwood Freshman Campus, where DeMilner has worked for 15 years. “I think it’s going to excite kids and make them think more deeply about what happened during that era,” she said.
Her students have also created a World War 1 mural connecting major events to artistic imagery.
“I love social studies. I love learning about history. I don’t think we would know as much about history if it wasn’t for art,” she said.
It’s a statement that shows how DeMilner connects art to everything, a reason she was named both 2018 Michigan Art Educator of the Year and Secondary Art Teacher of the Year by the Michigan Art Education Association.
She will receive the awards at the MAEA fall conference in October in Kalamazoo, and a state award at the 2019 National Art Education Association convention in March in Boston.
Sophomore Kaitlyn McNally paints the ’60s-themed mural in Adrienne DeMilner’s classroom
Making School ‘Artful’
DeMilner opens students’ eyes to the presence of art in history, science, nature, literature and just about everything else. In the school courtyard, her students have added wooden Michigan fish among the native plants; in forensics class, they painted a crime scene, detailing a shoe store forever marred by murder; and in the FIRST Robotics room, they’ve made the landscape of wheels and gears pop with color.
“Making things artful” aligns with the way students best engage, said DeMilner, who teaches Introduction to Art, Drawing and Sculpture and, beyond that, leads a weekly after-school Art Club for students who want extra art.
Many English-language learners attend the district and benefit from learning English through pictures. But, really, all students can use art to learn about other subjects, DeMilner said, noting, “Sixty-five percent of the population are visual learners.”
Sophomore art student Daylona Jackson, who is in Art Club, agreed.
“Some people are definitely visual learners and it really helps to have murals like this,” Daylona said. “Some people like to join Art Club because of these murals and to learn the history and what we’re doing. … It brings the school together.
Art teacher Adrienne DeMilner explains how forensics students investigate a crime scene, enhanced through art
Art Aids Academics
Science teacher Nicholas Bihler has seen the cross-curricular impact DeMilner brings to the school. The two worked on a project with Groundswell, an initiative through Grand Valley State University, creating a rain mitigation garden to capture water runoff and hold it in the soil with native plants. Wooden fish and a painted bench were among DeMilner’s students’ contributions.
“Adrienne reaches out, not only for students, but teachers as well,” Bihler said. “She seeks ways to bring in art and enrich our lives. Art is one of those components that heighten things, that gets us to look at things differently. Science with the absence of art is not as beautiful.”
DeMilner’s students have also created a mural of a world map, which hangs in the cafeteria. Students from dozens of nations have put their thumbprints in white paint and their initials on their home countries. DeMilner often sees them touch their spots as they wait in the lunch line. “There’s a lot of pride in that,” she said.
She’s also involves students in community art projects. They’ve painted murals at Hamilton Early Childhood Center, Bowen Elementary and Kentwood Public Library.
“She is the best art teacher I’ve ever had,” said sophomore Kaitlyn McNally, also an Art Club member. She recalled how DeMilner submitted one of her pieces for display at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. “She just livens the place up and teaches in a unique way. It makes it memorable.”
The ‘60s were a time of intense global affairs
Molding Minds Through Art
Teaching art is a second career for DeMilner, who grew up in Detroit. She was a graphic artist who worked freelance and stayed home with her three sons.
She realized the need to volunteer as an art teacher in Grand Rapids Public Schools 21 years ago when the elementary art curriculum was greatly reduced. But she wasn’t interested in just leading little art projects. DeMilner taught students about masters of the past, like Picasso, Rembrandt and Monet. “I knew what I would like my sons to get from an art experience and what I thought was important.”
Volunteering led her to enroll in Aquinas College for an art education degree and, from there, she discovered her passion for making art accessible to all. She began working in Kentwood Public Schools in 2000 at Explorer Elementary before moving to the Freshman Campus in 2003.
DeMilner’s main goal is to unleash the artist in her students, and provide an outlet for self-discovery. “I think there’s an artist in everyone and I feel like I’m freeing that creative spirit when they are in my classroom,” she said.
She sees students build confidence and skills. Art Club is a fit for some students that don’t find one elsewhere.
“You’ve got kids who are not athletes and there is nothing else for them after school,” she said. “A lot of artists are shy. It’s all about them getting together with like-minded people.”
Bradley Tarrance is the new principal at Godwin Heights Middle School. SNN gets to know him in this edition of Meet Your Principal.
Other positions you have held in education: Principal, KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program charter school), San Antonio, Texas; ELA teacher, KIPP; teacher, Flint Community Schools; teacher, Cumberland County Schools, Fayetteville, North Carolina; basketball coach, KIPP
How about jobs outside education? Manager of Buffalo Wild Wings
Spouse/children: Lindsay, married nine years; daughter, Christina, 5; son, Maxwell, 1
Bradley Tarrance
Hobbies/Interests: Basketball, reading
What kind of kid were you in middle school? I enjoyed being active and connecting with kids of all different backgrounds. I got good grades, but broke the rules many times while in school (only got caught half the time).
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… Relationships are everything. Respecting our children first and leveraging their strengths can go a long way. Children have a great BS meter, so be yourself.
If I could go back to school I would go to grade… 8, so I could learn U.S. history again in a way that mattered
If you walked into your new school building to theme music every day, what would the song be? “Take a Minute” by K’Naan
Thanks to the tremendous response from fans, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s show at SMG-managed Van Andel Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2018, has SOLD OUT. As a result, a second show has been added for Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019, at 8pm.
Before you know it, the bright fall foliage will be here.
