As a part of Wish Ball-West Michigan, Make-A-Wish Michigan recognizes three honorees: an Individual Honoree, a Corporate Partner Honoree, and a Community Partner Honoree. Each honoree is selected based on the impact they have on the organization’s ability to grant wishes to Michigan children with life-threatening medical conditions.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport was selected as the 2017 Community Partner Honoree because of its game-changing impact on the Make-A-Wish Michigan mission, as well as the Airport’s commitment to creating special experiences for wish kids and families as they leave for their wish journeys. GFIA also played a vital role in the enhancement of one such recipient, young Anthony, whose wish to become a pilot was the 9,000th wish granted by Make-A-Wish® Michigan. Anthony was also surprised at the ball as Grand Rapids Station Manager for Southwest Nate Tenbrink told the youngster that Southwest would be flying him to Dallas to experience the Flight Operations Center; he will also get to ride in a 737 simulator.
“What a tremendous honor to be recognized by Make-A-Wish Michigan among all of the wonderful partners in the community,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “We are proud to work with Make-A-Wish to make wishes come true, and to send the families off with a stress-free experience and a break from their times at medical appointments and hospital visits.”
Make-A-Wish Michigan has sent hundreds of kids and their families through the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, and 75-percent of wishes involve travel.
“The Gerald R. Ford International Airport … go[es] out of their way to provide special send offs and enhancements to our wish kids,” said Karen Davis, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Michigan. “This year’s Wish Ball theme was ‘Let Your Dreams Take Flight’, which is exactly what special friends like the Gerald R. Ford International Airport allow our wish children to do.”
With the help of generous donors and 40,000 volunteers worldwide, Make-A-Wish has collectively granted more than 415,000 wishes worldwide, making it the world’s largest wish-granting organization. For more information on Make-A-Wish Michigan, visit www.michigan.wish.org.
Grab your dark sunglasses, tease your hair, put on your spandex and headbands and join the wave headed back to the ’80s.
105.3 HotFM presents Retro Futura: HOT ’80s Rewindon Tuesday, August 1st at the Van Andel Area. Headlined by synth pioneer Howard Jones, the jam-packed show will also feature sets from the English Beat, Men Without Hats, Modern English, Paul Young and Katrina (ex-Katrina and The Waves) in support of Metro Health–University of Michigan Health Foundation.
The arena will host a pre-party prior to the show complete with a local ’80s band, ’80s costume contest, ’80s karaoke contest, games, prizes, food and drink specials and more! The show starts at 7 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. and the pre-show activities will begin at 5:30 p.m. For more details visit vanandelarena.com.
The Metro Health Hospital Foundation helps Metro Health meet the health care needs of more than 250,000 people annually. This includes providing assistance for people with limited or no health insurance, programs to detect cardiovascular disease in teens, summer camp for cancer patients and their families, Child Life Services for children experiencing hospitalization and funding to promote innovative treatment and compassionate care.
Tickets for Retro Futura: HOT ’80s Rewind can be purchased at the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place box offices, charge by phone at 1.800.745.3000 or online at Ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices are $45, $57.50 and $75. Ticket prices are subject to change.
It was a night for first-time award winners and a few surprises at the 2017 Eclipse Awards which took place Thursday, May 18, at the CityFlats Hotel in Grand Rapids.
The annual awards are designed to celebrate West Michigan filmmakers and the films they create. A call for entries was made at the end of March with judges from around the globe narrowing the entries down to a record number of nominees, which was more than 90. Past Eclipse winners were selected to place their votes for the best contenders in each category with those winners being announced last night.
For many, being nominated was a huge accomplishment and, in fact, all the nominees were honored at a special event at the JW Marriot earlier in the week.
“For me it is a great honor,” said first-time winner Andy Behm, who tied with Kyle Misak for Best Direction (Feature or Short.) Behm’s film is Hold On, which is about a couple and the trying times they face over a short period of time.
“I just graduated from college last week so it is a great way to start a career and for my film hopefully this is the first of many. It is a great honor just to be nominated and then to win is just awesome.”
First-time winner Geoffrey Young Haney, whose film Shadows won for Best Narrative Short, echoed the same about being nominated.
“This is the first thing I have ever submitted into anything at all,” Haney said, adding that he feels winning will help him to continue to build connections with those in the West Michigan film industry.
Deb Havens knows much about building connections as she was one of the leaders behind the development of the West Michigan Film and Video Alliance, one of the sponsors of the Eclipse Awards. Havens was honored for her leadership with the 2017 Hyperion Award.
“It is an award that really comes after a number of years of leadership,” Havens said. “But you are not a leader if no one is following or part of what you are leading toward as part of the goal and of the effort put into achieving that goal. And as I have mentioned, we have had over 50 people serve on the board and hundreds who have been members and we couldn’t have done anything without those folks.
“As you see tonight with all the people in the room, we made a difference and that is so huge.”
Receiving recognition for a film, any recognition, does help a project, said filmmaker Todd Lewis who won for Best Sound Design for the film The Rotation. Lewis said that it was “wonderful to be apart of this community,” but to be recognized in a room full of incredible artists from Grand Rapids and throughout Michigan only added to that honor.
Congratulations! And the Eclipse Winners at the 6th Annual Eclipse Awards are:
Best Editing in a Documentary
Rich Jackson for Stuck in Traffic, Modern-Day Slavery in Michigan
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Laura Walczak for Wake
Best Cinema Trailer
Migration – David Huizingh, producer
Best Director in a Documentary
Rich Jackson for Stuck in Traffic, Modern-Day Slavery in Michigan
Best Editor in a a Feature or Short
Cameron Lewis for Mordecai
Best Local & Regional Segments & Promotional Pieces
Gabe – David MacKenzie, Jilaine Snoeyink, Producers
Best Music Video, Original Performance
Private Slum – Zachary Clark, Andy Westra, Producers
The 2017 Hyperion Award
Dr. Deb Havens
Best Sound Design
Todd Lewis for The Rotation
On-Line programs, Segments or Promotional Pieces
Grand Rapids Glossary – Brian Kelly, Producer
Best Director in a Feature or Short
Andrew Behm for Hold On
Kyle Misak for Crazy Carl
Best Original Score
Gregory De lulio for Crazy Carl
Best Cinematography
Ben Wilke for Baxter Community Center
Best Narrative Short
Shadows – Geoffrey Young Haney, Joseph Scott Anthony, Dustin Wilfert, Producers
Best Writing in Documentary & Promotional Piece
Jason Ley for Modern Ahabs
Best Documentary Short
Renardo – Nathan Roels, Producer
Best Local TV & Cable
Modern Ahabs – Ben Wilke, Jason Ley, Producers
Best Feature Documentary
New Heights: Restoring A City – Eric Schrotenboer, Taz Painter, Producers
Best Animation
Erik Sebert for Space Scavenger
Best Screenplay
Harper Philbin and John Dufresne for Lucky Jay 2
Best Actor in a Lead Role
Morlan Higgins for Lucky Jay 2
Best Narrative Feature
Needlestick – Steven Karageanes, Producer
Presenters for this year’s event were John Philbin, Jessie Hollett, Sophie Bolen, Josh Reed, Michael McCallum, Mallory Patterson, Randy Strobl, Noah DeSmit, Amy Sherman, David Baker, Glen Okonoski, Anthony Griffin, Girbe Eefsting, Barb Roos, Jen Shaneberger, Rich Brauer, Stephen Tanner, Derk Baartman, Judy Bergsma, Gretchen Vinnedge, Stuart Poltrock, Sherryl Despres, and Todd Lewis.
Peters Cosponsors Bill to Protect Public Land & Water
Bill Permanently Reauthorizes Land and Water Conservation Fund
By Allison Green
U.S Senator Gary Peters announced that he is cosponsoring the bipartisan Land and Water Conservation Authorization and Funding Act to permanently reauthorize and fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The LWCF uses revenues from offshore oil and gas drilling to fund the protection of everything from wildlife refuges and national parks to lakes, rivers and community parks.
Sleeping Bear dune
Michigan has received over $320 million in funding from the LWCF over the 50-year lifespan of the program, helping to protect places like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Keweenaw National Historical Park, the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, the North Country National Scenic Trail, and all of Michigan’s National Forests.
“Protecting our environmental resources is not just about good stewardship, it is also vital to our health, our economy and our way of life in Michigan,” said Peters.
Outdoor recreation is a key component of Michigan’s economy, generating $18.7 billion in consumer spending and supporting nearly 200,000 jobs, according to the Outdoor Industry Association. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that 4.4 million people hunt, fish, or enjoy wildlife-watching in Michigan each year, contributing over $6.1 billion to the state’s economy.
Peters, Stabenow & Colleagues Introduce Bill to Tackle Student Loan Debt
Legislation Allows Borrowers to Refinance Student Loans at Lower Interest Rate
U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow joined their colleagues in introducing the Bank on Students Emergency Loan Refinancing Act. The legislation would allow those with outstanding student loan debt to refinance at the lower interest rates offered to new federal borrowers in the 2016-2017 school year.
“Access to higher education can provide a pathway to economic opportunity, but too many young people are saddled with crushing debt after they leave school,” said Senator Peters. “You can already refinance your mortgage or car loan, and there is no reason student loans should be treated any differently.”
“Our bill would allow students and parents to refinance their loans for a better rate – just like people can already do with their car or home loans. All of our students deserve an equal shot at success!” said Senator Stabenow.
Since the bill was introduced during the 113th congress, student loan debt has grown by about $200 billion. In 2015, 70% of college seniors graduated with debt. This year, more than one in four borrowers are in delinquency or in default on their student loans. In Michigan, tuition for almost every college has more than doubled since the early 2000s. Each student who attends a four-year college in our state leaves with over $29,000 in loan debt on average.
According to a recent analysis, a quarter of borrowers default over the life of their loans. It is clear that the student loan debt crisis is getting increasingly worse, with no signs of slowing down. It is a crisis that threatens our economy, and the futures of young people all across America. With interest rates scheduled to rise again this summer, the urgency for Congress to address the student debt crisis and to allow borrowers to access today’s lower rates is stronger than ever.
Peters Statement on Appointment of Special Counselor in Russia Investigation
The Kremlin in Moscow
U.S. Senator Gary Peters released the following statement on Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein’s appointment of former FBI Director Robert Mueller to serve as special counsel in the Russia investigation:
“Russia’s unprecedented interference into our election threatens our national security and the very foundation of our democracy. The appointment of Robert Mueller as special counsel is a good first step toward a thorough investigation that is free from political pressure or interference. The American people deserve to know the facts about Russian efforts to disrupt the 2016 election, any involvement with the Trump campaign, and any attempt by the President or other officials to improperly influence the FBI. The facts alone should drive this investigation.”
Peters Cosponsors Bill to Help Veterans Exposed to Toxic Burn Pits
U.S Senator Gary Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, announced he is cosponsoring the bipartisan Helping Veterans Exposed to Burn Pits Act, which will help veterans suffering from respiratory ailments as a result of exposure to open burn pits during their military service in Iraq and Afghanistan. Burn pits were frequently used on military bases in Iraq and Afghanistan to burn waste, including toxic items such as plastics, electronics, batteries and human waste.
“When veterans are exposed to harmful substances in service to our nation, we must ensure they can receive the necessary medical care and treatments they need when they return home,” said Senator Peters.
The bill would establish a center of excellence within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the treatment of health conditions related to burn pit exposure. Chemicals found in burn pits has been linked to a number of adverse health effects including cancer, neurological and reproductive disorders, and respiratory and cardiovascular toxicity.
Peters Introduces Bill to Expand Broadband Deployment Using Accurate Coverage Maps
Bipartisan Bill Requires FCC to ensure Broadband Coverage Maps Reflect the Real-World Experiences of Rural Consumers
U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced the Rural Wireless Access Act of 2017 to require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to collect up-to-date and accurate data on wireless broadband coverage across the United States and especially in rural areas.
“Having an accurate assessment of which rural areas are most in need of wireless broadband coverage is critical to closing the digital divide, but the availability of broadband coverage can be difficult to assess,” said Senator Peters.
According to the FCC, 87 percent of rural Americans – 52.2 million people – lack access to mobile broadband with minimum advertised speeds of 10 Mbps/1 Mbps, compared to 45 percent of those living in urban areas. According to Connect Michigan, 44 percent of working-age Michigan adults rely on internet access to seek or apply for jobs, while 22 percent further their education by taking online classes.
Stabenow Statement on Trump Administration’s NAFTA Renegotiation Notice
By Miranda Margowsky
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s NAFTA renegotiation notice:
“In the 23 years since NAFTA was signed, our country has lost too many good-paying manufacturing jobs to other countries. No other state has felt the pain of those losses more than Michigan. Given NAFTA’s importance to our workers, our farmers, and our economy, a modernization is long overdue. As we move forward, we need to make sure that any changes to NAFTA lead to an improvement in our quality of life and higher incomes, not a race to the bottom.”
Peters, Collins Introduce Bill to Give Fire Departments Flexibility in
Hiring
Bill Allows Fire Departments to Use Federal Funding to Promote Part-Time Firefighters
By Allison Green
U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) have introduced bipartisan legislation to help local fire departments across the country save money and hire and promote trained first responders. The Firefighters Retention Act of 2017 will give fire departments flexibility to use Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants to transition part-time or paid-on-call personnel to full-time status. Under current law, fire departments can only use SAFER grants to hire and train new personnel and are prohibited from using these grants to promote part-time firefighters, who are already trained and equipped to respond to emergencies.
“Part-time firefighters serve on the frontlines of their communities and have the experience to effectively and efficiently respond when emergency strikes,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. “This commonsense legislation would give fire departments greater ability to promote trained, experienced firefighters, which will save money and reaffirm the critical role these men and women play in keeping our neighborhoods safe.”
The SAFER grant program provides direct funding to fire departments and volunteer firefighter organizations to help them increase or maintain the number of trained firefighters available in their communities. The majority of organized fire departments recruit resident and community leaders who are familiar with their neighborhoods to be part-time or volunteer firefighters – comprising 70% of the total firefighting force in the United States.
Senator Stabenow Receives Praise and Recognition from Small BusinessCouncil of America
By Ian Wilhite
Senator Stabenow
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow was presented with the Small Business Council of America’s Special Congressional Achievement award during the 34th Annual Congressional Awards Reception. Stabenow was recognized for her tireless work as a member of the Senate Budget and Finance Committees and her continued role as a champion of small businesses. She is only the 6th member of Congress to ever receive this award.
Senator Stabenow has been a strong advocate for small businesses, cutting taxes and increasing access to capital for entrepreneurs to help them expand and create jobs. Over the past year, she has visited over 80 small businesses during her Small Business Tour across the state.
Buffered between Godfrey-Lee’s Early Education Center and an industrial building is a swath of wilderness complete with trees, brush and a winding creek. It’s the habitat of birds, small mammals and on recent sunny afternoon, kindergartners.
“Forts are our forte,” joked Deb Schuitema, a math coach who joined in the effort with physical education teacher Julie Swanson to design the new Outdoor Learning Lab’s natural play area.
Kindergartners were challenged to make their own shelters after listening to a story called “A House is a House for Me,” by Mary Ann Hoberman. They used branches and colorful pieces of cloth to design their shelters. Some added rocks and leaves turned into decor, and, when finished, they went inside their “houses” and peeked out of the sheer material.
Kindergartners walk along the rock grotto, counting stones as they go.
Around them, another class joined a representative from Blandford Nature Center in exploring the area for bird habitats. A third class spread out on the grassy hill to read.
“We have had five different classes out here at the same time,” said Swanson, who introduces those in her classes to different ways to use their muscles and develop balance by climbing rocks and jumping from stump to stump. “A year ago, nobody would have come out here.”
The lab, planned for two years, now includes a rock grotto and a sandy play space where toy trucks stay busy excavating. And there’s a nearly complete stage made of logs. Plans are to add a slide built into the hill, a teepee surrounded by native plants, a texture garden and a student-designed nature path.
Physical education teacher Julie Swanson checks out a pine cone with kindergartners
“We really want to make this part of the kids’ everyday experience,” Schuitema said.
The City of Wyoming, Dykema Excavators Inc., and Tontin Lumber Co. donated rocks, downed trees, other materials and services. Last fall, Women Who Care of Kent County, a group that supports non-profit groups, donated $12,000 to the district for outdoor education.
Kindergartners hoisted up big sticks, adding another layer to a fort, and wrapped material around it.
“I like making homes,” said Arielly Sanchez. “We can go in them.”
As class ended, Swanson let out a huge, wolf-like howl, signaling to kindergartners that she needed their attention. They howled back, running up from their shelter-building to head back inside.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Hard to believe, but Memorial Day is fast approaching. Here are a few fun things the whole family can enjoy!
The Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park has extended hours over Memorial Day weekend. If you want to pick up discounted tickets for the holiday weekend, stop in on May 20th for their May Kick-Off Event where tickets for shortened climb times and zip rides will be discounted, along with other giveaways and special offers. Spend the long weekend with family and friends among the trees.
The Grand Haven Area kicks off summer and celebrates Memorial Day weekend with a big summer run! There is something for everyone from the avid racer to the occasional walker, with their certified 5K Run, the 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk, and the Tot Trot obstacle course for ages 3 to 6. All ages are welcome to participate, so bring your mom, dad, grandma, and grandpa. Join your community for this annual family event to promote healthy lifestyles in the Tri-Cities area.
Inside USS Silversides
The Muskegon area has events throughout Memorial Day weekend for everybody. The Fruitport Old Fashioned Days is May 24th to 29th, and features fireworks, a carnival, community picnic, parade, Lions Ox Roast, a 5K Run, and more. Celebrating 30 years, the Lost Boat Ceremony on May 28th at the USS Silversides Museum is both a solemn and joyful celebration designed to honor the loss of 52 U.S. submarines and 3600 submariners during World War II. The 12th Annual Blessing of the Boats is the same day, with boats of all types gathering on Muskegon Lake near the Milwaukee Clipper for a parade of boats. Also May 28th is the Final Approach Memorial Program located at Old Grand Haven Road and Seaway Drive. May 29th brings a parade and American Salute Concert. Spend the morning watching seven bands and over 40 marching units highlighting patriotism and citizenship. After the parade, head over to the Frauenthal Theater for additional musical selections at this free performance. Muskegon celebrates Memorial Day in style and great quantity, so make sure to carve some time out of your calendar to experience it!
Join the Muskegon KOA Campground for an enjoyable holiday camping weekend. They require a three-night minimum stay for Holidays/Special Events, but it’s well worth your time. Stay from May 26th to 29th and enjoy an immersive outdoor experience. They have tent sites, a limited number of cabins, and a few 30 amp full service sites still available, but they’re going fast. Give them a call to book your stay today!
In celebration of Memorial Day, Mecosta County is home to the 4th Annual Memorial Weekend “4 Veterans Car and Craft Show” on Saturday, May 27th. There will be 32 awards including best of show, best car, best truck, best muscle car, best motorcycle, and many more! Other activities will include a craft show, door prizes, 50/50 drawings, and plenty of music. All proceeds will benefit local Amvets post 1941.
Alma, Michigan, is better known as Scotland, USA, over Memorial Day weekend each year as thousands of people gather together to celebrate the Alma Highland Festival and Games. The event is celebrating 50 years this Memorial Day weekend when they take over Alma on May 27th and 28th. This event has grown to become one of the largest, most prestigious attractions of its kind in the Midwest!
In the United States, Armed Forces Day takes place on the third Saturday of May each year; this year it will be observed on Saturday, May 20. Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 to pay special tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces, recognizing their service and sacrifice for the country.
According to 2015 estimates, there are more than 31,000 veterans living in Kent County. Of these, 7% are unemployed and 7% are living in poverty. Kent County is home to several organizations that can provide services to veterans who may need assistance.
ACSET Community Action Agency focuses on meeting emergency needs such as utility and food assistance, home weatherization, medical insurance enrollment and tax preparation. Low-income veterans who are residents of Kent County may qualify for assistance.
West Michigan Works! offers specialized services and priority of service for eligible veterans and their spouses. To see if you qualify, visit a Service Center and tell the staff you are a veteran or spouse of a veteran.
West Michigan Veterans Coalition is a collaboration between local organizations who provide support, information and resources to veterans and their families. They can connect you with local services to assist with education, employment, healthcare, quality of life and more.
Heart of West Michigan United Way 2-1-1 is a database of thousands of local services. Veterans can search their online data base or dial 2-1-1 to be connected to veteran-specific services in Kent County.
Kent County Veterans Services assists veterans in our community in getting benefits they are entitled to at county, state and federal levels. They can also connect veterans to other resources in the community.
Your Community in Action! is provided by ASCET Community Action Agency. To learn more about how they help meet emergency needs and assist with areas of self-sufficiency, visit www.communityactionkent.org.
Kelloggsville High School students now have a sparkling addition to their building, complete with a repositioned entrance, new gymnasium, two-story media center and classrooms, and plenty of open space. Paint and decor reflect Rocket pride in blue and orange, and natural light streams through new windows.
Construction recently was completed on the new entrance area of the school, allowing students to enjoy the space for the remaining weeks of the semester.
“It’s amazing. It’s a major upgrade,” said senior Anna Jensen.
Principal Kevin Simmons looks out of the new media center.
The project was made possible through a $30 million bond issue passed in 2015. The bulk of it, $27 million, went toward improvements at the high school, 23 Jean St. SW, including demolition of a 1930s wing and the large addition. The entrance of the school now fronts Division Avenue instead of Jean Street. Other renovations are in progress.
A new competitive-sized gymnasium will host varsity games and allows for more practice space. The auditorium has new theater-style seating for 480. A two-story media center outfitted with updated technology will serve as a hub for learning and a community center. The goal is to open some facilities to the public.
“The district realized the high school would be a hub for the community,” said Principal Kevin Simmons.
“It’s like a whole new high school,” said senior Sadie Mitchell.
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Grand Valley State University’s Grand Haven-based education and research vessel, the D.J. Angus, is kicking off the 2017 summer research season with new hardware that enhances the vessel’s education and research abilities.
The boat underwent the upgrades during the winter off-season to bring on-board equipment up to the same standard as the Angus’ sister boat, the W.G. Jackson which is located in Muskegon Lake at the Annis Water Resources Institute.
The updated equipment includes camera safety systems, an integrated touchscreen display for navigation, high-definition radar systems, Automated Identification System (AIS) and new digital weather sensors. The equipment enhances the educational mission of the boat, which is primarily used for K-12 outreach education programs. The radar, navigation and camera updates enhance ease of operation and safety.
“We replaced analog equipment with digital equipment and made several improvements that enhance the efficiency and safety of the vessel,” fleet captain Tony Fiore said. “It gives us access to navigation charts digitally instead of on paper, so the information is more accurate. It helps us with safety when we’re under way.”
Camera upgrades mean that the captain of the vessel can see, in real-time, what’s happening in all areas of the boat from the wheelhouse, including inside the engine room and on the back research deck. Having that information helps in case of emergency, Fiore said.
Navigation is also greatly improved, as a community data-sharing program provides all vessels that use the RayMarine system with crowd-sourced depth information rather than charts which can become outdated with time.
Even though the boat mainly serves AWRI’s educational outreach program, these upgrades also mean that should a researcher need to use the D.J. Angus instead of the W.G. Jackson the instrumentation and data collection systems are similar. The new weather sensors digitally track wind speed, wind direction, barometric pressure, temperature and more.
For more information on the Annis Water Resources Institute, visit gvsu.edu/wri.
The evening of Monday, May 15 was balmy, and as the sun slowly sank over the Grand River at JW Marriot’s 616 Cabana in downtown Grand Rapids, Mich., the 6th Annual Eclipse Award nominees reveled in being recognized for their talent and hard work in filmmaking. The mood: shimmering anticipation.
WKTV spoke with 14 talented filmmakers — out of a total of more than 90 nominees — all of whom had one thing in common: being among the best talent in West Michigan.
Here is what they had to say.
Talon Rudel
Talon Rudel
Nominated for two awards — Best Narrative Feature and Best Direction in a Feature or Short — for his 8-minute film, Doorways, Talon Rudel hails from the east side of the state. He co-produced the nominated film last summer along with a talented team for a 36-hour film competition.
“It was surreal,” Rudel said of hearing about his nomination. “I’ve seen so many other people get nominated and they’re so good, so when I got nominated, I thought, ‘Wait, what?’ It felt like it was out of the blue.”
Rudel’s future plans are to write and direct features, and although he has no specific destination in mind, he does know that he wants to be where he can make his goal happen.
Johnny DeMarco
Johnny DeMarco
Nominated for Best Acting in a Lead Role for his portrayal of ‘Tommy’ in Confidence of a Tall Man, Johnny DeMarco has been acting for 6 years and nearly snagged a role on The Sopranos (yes, that Sopranos).
“It all happened on a whim,” DeMarco said. “I took a trek to New York and hung out in the bars where the series was filmed.”
The actor enjoys a bit of notoriety in his hometown of Lansing. In addition to acting, he’s been in real estate for 30 years and owns Paisano’s Restaurant.
“I wear many hats and the endeavors all blend together,” he said. “It’s very exciting to be nominated for this award. I am very humbled.”
Troy Randall-Kilpatrick
Troy Randall-Kilpatrick
Nominated for Best Acting in a Lead Role for his work in the short film, Beggar’s Remorse, actor, writer and producer (Crooked Limb Studio & Productions) Troy Randall-Kilpatrick has been acting on stage and in film, primarily in Michigan, for over 20 years.
In Beggar’s Remorse, Randall-Kilpatrick plays ‘John’, an extremely dark character, which prompted fellow actor and fianceé, Heather Fairbanks to say that she was both horrified and extremely impressed.
“He’s a gifted actor,” said Fairbanks, who is currently working with Randall-Kilpatrick on the film, Descending.
Of receiving the nomination, Randall-Kilpatrick said, “I thought it was wonderful. I’m pleased and happy. It’s a first-class awards show and a tremendous honor to be nominated.”
Heather Fairbanks
Heather Fairbanks
Written and directed by Rhodes Short, and co-produced by Short and Heather Fairbanks, Who Will Move the Stone is nominated for Best Narrative Feature. Representing the film at the event was Fairbanks, who has been acting since the age of 3.
“I grew up on the stage,” Fairbanks said. “I enjoy acting in diverse roles.”
Fairbanks said that she’s enjoyed traveling with the film to festivals throughout the U.S., and the film has won numerous awards along the way.
“I’m really honored that a faith-based film would be recognized in a secular film festival,” Fairbanks said. “It surprises people. It’s not a cookie-cutter Christian film.”
Sheri Beth Dusek
Sheri Beth Dusek
Nominated for Best Acting in a Lead Role for her portrayal of ‘Jayne Russo’ in Two Guns and a Body Bag, Sheri Beth Dusek said, “I was surprised. I’ve acted for 25 years — many years in theatre — and I’ve never been recognized. It’s nice to be recognized.”
Although acting is her first love, Dusek has been working on the producing end of the biz for the past two years and finds that aspect exciting and fun. She divides her time between Grand Rapids and Los Angeles.
“I’m absolutely loving it,” she said. “I wake up in L.A. and ask myself, ‘Is this my life right now? Meeting with producers?’”
Jason Ley and Ben Wilke
Jason Ley and Ben Wilke
Nominated for Best Local TV & Cable (30-minute time slot), Modern Ahabs is a travel beer show produced by Jason Ley and Ben Wilke. Ley is nominated for Best Writing in Produced Content (Documentary or Promo Piece) and Wilke is nominated for Best Sound Design and Best Direction (Documentary or Promo Piece) for the same project as well.
For those not in the know, Captain Ahab hunted the great white whale in Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick. In a similar fashion, Modern Ahabs follows the hunt for the elusive craft beer.
“It’s a show for the craft beer enthusiast who is working on fulfilling a bucket list of beers,” said Ley, who admitted to not knowing how he wanted the pilot to be filmed. He put his full trust in co-producer Wilke, who has a ton of experience behind the camera.
Because craft beers can be fleeting, Ley and Wilke are at the mercy of a beer’s release. They had a quick, three-week turnaround time for filming the pilot.
“I was surprised that it was nominated. I had no idea it would turn into four Eclipse Award nominations,” said Ley. So far, the pilot has also won four Tellys and is nominated for an Emmy Award.
Jeff Morgan
Jeff Morgan
Hailing from Traverse City, Jeff Morgan co-produced Healing with Horses with Amber Elliott. The piece is nominated for Best Documentary (less than 20 minutes).
The documentary shares the journey of Kelsey Secor, who was partially disabled in 2015 after her car went off the road and hit several trees over the July 4th weekend. Secor’s rehabilitation included equine therapy at Karin’s Horse Connection and Legacy Stables in Caledonia, Mich., the setting for much of the documentary.
“I’m super excited,” Morgan said of being nominated. He plans on pitching the documentary to Netflix.
Angela Peavey
Angela Peavey
“It’s always an honor to be nominated,” said Angela Peavey, who produced Saugatuck Center for the Arts Theatre Promo, which was nominated for Best Online Programs, Segments or Promotional Pieces.
“I went on YouTube to see what the caliber of nominations was like and it’s amazing! Even if I don’t win, I can’t complain because the people are phenomenal.”
The project has been nominated for an Emmy award as well.
Peavey is currently busy with post-production on A Parent’s Worst Nightmare and recently became a full partner of Be Your Own Hollywood Production Company.
Peavey acknowledged that women are scarce in the male-dominated film industry.
“To be a woman filmmaker, you have to be tenacious and create your own magic,” she said. “You can’t wait for someone to open the door for you.”
David Huizingh
David Huizingh
Nominated for Best Cinema Trailer, David Huizingh’s project, Migration, began as a capstone project for a film class at GVSU.
“It felt wonderful to be nominated,” said Huizingh. “It’s a huge privilege to be here networking with others.”
Huizingh works in a “nerdy” field — virtual reality — at Steelcase, and he feels very lucky to be doing what he’s doing. He enjoys being active in the 3-D community, too.
Thom Bell
Thom Bell
Nominated for Best Local and Regional Segments and Promotional Pieces (under 20 minutes) for his work on WMFVA Sound Designer, Thom Bell is satisfied just to be in the circle of talent that make up the 6th Annual Eclipse Awards.
“Whether I win is not as important as navigating among these folks,” Bell said.
WMFVA Sound Designer was a collaboration between WMFVA and Celebration! Cinema. The piece plays prior to the start of a feature film (at Celebration! Cinema).
“It was really well received,” said Bell. “People in the theatre really liked it, and they were surprised to learn that films were still being made in Michigan.”
Kevin Kammeraad
Kevin Kammeraad
Nominated for Best Music Video Original Performance, Kevin Kammeraad’s piece, Inquiring Minds, was a family affair — Kammeraad produced the video and did the original song and puppetry. His wife, children and cousins all worked on the piece, which is par for the course — his family is always involved in his endeavors.
“I am delighted,” Kammeraad said of being nominated for an Eclipse Award. “It’s always reassuring when someone recognizes your work.”
Working as an independent artist creating books, music and poetry, the project is all part of Kammeraad’s goal: to inspire kids’ creativity and spark ideas.
Kyle Misak and Don Chase
Kyle Misak and Don Chase
Receiving not one, not two, but 8 nominations, Kyle Misak said, “It’s cool to be nominated among your colleagues.”
Misak’s feature film, Another Brick in the Wall is nominated for Best Narrative Feature, Best Direction, Best Editing (Feature or Short), and Best Screenplay (Feature or Short). Co-produced with Don Chase, Misak’s short film, Crazy Carl, is nominated for Best Narrative Short, Best Direction (Feature or Short), Best Editing (Feature or Short), and Best Screenplay (Feature or Short).
Said Chase of the multitude of nominations, “It doesn’t surprise me — Kyle is creative, talented and passionate. I’ve worked with him five years. The whole team is solid. When you’ve got a good team, you get nominated for awards. It’s about our whole team, not just us.”
Right now, the two are working on Eden Theory, a psychological thriller. They plan on making more films.
“It doesn’t stop,” said Chase. “When one’s done, it’s time to do another.”
Erik Sebert
Erik Sebert
A May 2016 graduate of Ferris State University, Erik Sebert said, “I’m confident about my work, but it’s awesome to be nominated. I was surprised — it felt really good.”
Sebert’s piece, Space Scavenger is nominated for Best Animation.
Sebert works at Tech World producing spec graphics, and he’s on the lookout for a job as a 3-D model environmental artist.
“More and more, I’m becoming a 3-D generalist,” he said.
Ken Orlich
Ken Orlich
Nominated for Best Acting in a Supporting Role for his portrayal of ‘Teddy’ in Confidence of a Tall Man, Ken Orlich has 20 years of acting experience under his belt — in comedy, public access and voice work.
“This is the first time I’ve been nominated for an award,” said Orlich. “I really was surprised. Working with Mike (McCallum), you know what you do with him gets out there — he makes sure people see it. Win or lose, I’m definitely happy.”
Orlich wants to keep working with McCallum and is starting a new production company in Lansing. In addition to acting, he has a background in engineering and farming.
If you are planning to head down 44th Street, you might want to consider an alternate route as the road will be closed between Breton Road and Walma Avenue Saturday and Sunday, May 20 and 21.
Kentwood Assistant City Engineer Dan VanderHeide said the reason for the closure is so that contractors for the development at Holland Home’s Breton Ridge can install gas and water lines to the site’s newest building located near the corner of 44th Street and Breton Woods Drive. The water and gas services need to go under 44th Street which means the contractor will have to cut the road open to put the service lines in place, VanderHeide said.
Lane closures to accommodate the construction was not possible because of the 44th Street median which made it difficult to re-route traffic. It was decided the best way to handle the project was to close the street over a weekend, he said.
“There is not a time when 44th Street isn’t busy, but the weekend is when it is less busy,” VanderHeide said.
While the street is closed, cars and trucks will be detoured separately. Cars will be redirected through the roundabout using Breton Road and Walma Avenue, while trucks will be detoured north using Breton Road, 32nd Street and Shaffer Avenue.
There are some big changes for both the Kentwood and Wyoming Relay for Life events: the two have combined and this year, the Relay for Life of Kentwood/Wyoming will be at the Metro Health – University of Michigan Health/
The signature fundraiser for the American Cancer Society will be from noon to 10 p.m. Friday, May 19 at the Metro Health Village, located 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW.
“For the first time, we’re combining the Wyoming and Kentwood relays into one,” said event committee member Laura Smith, director of The Metro Health – University of Michigan Cancer Center. “We’re looking forward to a high-energy day that brings the community together to remember loved ones and honor survivors.”
Organizers of the event hope to raise at least $30,000, all of which will go to the local chapter of the American Cancer Society.
“Our theme is ‘We is greater than me,’” said Julie Helm, officer manager of Metro Health Ear, Nose and Throat, who also serves on the Relay for Life committee and is herself a cancer survivor. “There’s not a person you meet that hasn’t been touched by cancer, which is why this event is so important. The involvement of so many participants and organizations underscores how the fight against cancer happens on a personal level and a community level.”
Relay for Life events traditionally consist of teams whose members take turns walking around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a member on the track at all times to symbolize that cancer never takes a break.
This year, Relay for Life of Wyoming/Kentwood also invites individuals to participate, either by registering online or simply showing up the day of the event.
“We’re privileged to welcome the community to our campus and want to be sure there are no barriers to participation,” said Floyd Wilson Jr., chief administrative officer of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “Hosting Relay for Life is one way we can embrace our role as the hub of community wellness.”
The day also will feature a number of booths, games, classes, and special events at Metro Health Village.
“When not walking laps, participants will have plenty of opportunities for education and entertainment,” Helm says. “And even if you’re not walking, we invite you to stop by and enjoy the happenings.”
The day’s activities will kick off with the Kelloggsville High School Marching leading everyone on the first lap. Afternoon activities include a paint and pour canvas party at 2 p.m. with activities really getting underway around 6 p.m. with the survivor/caregiver dinner.
Other activities include:
· The Metro Health Mammobus will be on site all day for tours and free mammography screenings.
· A bevy of booths will be on hand, including a photo booth, cancer education awareness booth, and relaxation station featuring yoga and massage.
· A daylong silent auction—from 1-7:30 p.m.
· Wyoming’s Got Talent at 7:30 p.m. with a panel of judges featuring Eric Zane from WBBL FM 1340
· A dance party with band at 9:30 p.m.
The luminaria lap, Relay for Life’s most moving tradition, will take place just before the dance party. Walkers will be guided along their path by hundreds of luminarias lit to remind those touched by cancer that they’re not alone.
The traditional survivor and caregiver reception will also take place during the event. Those interested in participating in this reception need to RSVP.
For the complete schedule of events, please visit the event’s Facebook page (Relay for Life of Wyoming/Kentwood).
April Martinez is the kind of person who asks, “Do you need anything else?” and “What more can I do?”
She’s the student who is ever-present, often helping organize events and taking part in art shows, blood drives, pancake breakfasts, powder-puff games. Others say she’s a natural at uniting people.
“I’m everywhere,” the Student Council president said with a laugh. “I love helping people. We do events that make people happy and bring our school together and that’s wonderful to me.
Senior April Martinez will graduate on May 31
“Where they need me is where I’ll be.”
April graduates on May 31 from Godwin Heights High School, and is headed to Grand Rapids Community College for her associate degree before transferring to Western Michigan University or Aquinas College to major in political science and minor in art.
April has always had big goals and a go-getter attitude, she said, but on many days during high school, there was a lot more on her mind than schoolwork.
During her freshman year, April and her three siblings, the youngest a baby, were put into foster care after being removed from a situation involving abuse. April and two siblings moved in with an aunt, and the baby was placed with a foster family.
“I remember this day so vividly,” she said, recounting arriving at KidsFirst Emergency Shelter, in Grand Rapids. “I couldn’t stop crying. I tried so hard to keep it together. I was worried about how my younger sister was doing.
“The hardest part was my little sister being gone. When they took her, it was the worst year ever.”
April and her sisters and brother remained in foster care for over a year. The usually smiling, happy April acted out at school by being mouthy and disrespectful. She became unmotivated and depressed, even suicidal at times. She would weep silently in the bathroom at school. “There’s a certain stall where I would cry,” she remembered.
She now lives with her grandmother, and with the help of school counselors, her friends and a youth minister at St. Francis Xavier church, she turned things around. “Prayer’s a powerful thing,” she said.
April Martinez gets a hug from art teacher Deanne Base
Putting Others Ahead of Herself
She’s embraced her Student Council work with steadfast commitment. “I’m a very outgoing person, so I like to think of myself as reaching out to people who others don’t always notice and making sure people feel part of school. We’re like a family here. I love it.”
Teachers say April is always thinking about others. “She’s that person who asks, ‘What else do you need me to do?’ ” said Student Council adviser Robin Carlyle. “She goes above and beyond and is kind and considerate. Life isn’t always good for her, but she doesn’t let it get her down.”
Art teacher Deanne Basse said she has “a ton of admiration” for April.
“One of her absolute strengths is to keep her composure and poise and always looking beyond herself. When she is tackling her own aspirations, she is also equally as concerned with everybody else. It makes her a very strong leader.”
April said she wanted to share her story to help other people who face similar challenges and loss. She wants to inspire them to be strong, to turn to others for help and not give up.
“What’s coming is so much better than you ever imagine, if you take the good path,” she said. “You have to go through the storm to see the rainbow.”
Madam President?
Going through the foster care process has inspired April to become more interested in politics, and in the need for social change and to address global issues like human trafficking. She hopes to become a lawyer, and then aim even higher. Yes, that high.
“I’ve always wanted to get into politics and be President of the United States,” she said confidently. “I feel like the world can be changed. I’m a believer that we can fix the world.
“I tend to see the best in the world and people, because I love people. I love the world.”
April said her experiences have shaped her life. “They’ve taught me to be more compassionate and understanding, to be there and help people and not judge them.”
Sound like qualities of a good president?
“Maybe you’ll be interviewing me when I’m in the Oval Office,” she said. “We’ll see what I’m destined to be.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Volunteer Patti F. and her family are very well versed in this whole stray cat thing, as living out in the country has brought them many a cat over the years; this summer however they found themselves coming across several ill or injured kitties that needed medical attention.
Such was the case with Chrysanthemum, a young mother (born in the spring of 2015) who ended up on their property sickly, swollen and very skittish. Seems that another Saranac stray had taken an extreme dislike to Chryssy, biting her on the right side of her face and causing a major abscess that not only affected her jaw but the inside of her mouth and underneath her tongue as well.
Given her frantic nature when in the presence of strangers at first, we suspect the ONLY way her rescuer was able to catch her and bring her in to safety was simply because she was so ill she didn’t have the energy to put up a fight. But after her spay and wound treatment, coupled with heavy-duty antibiotics and narcotics, Chryssy was rip-roaring mad at Dr. Jen and not afraid to show it (yes, that is the thanks Dr. Jen gets).
Chryssy roomed with another terribly shy guy while she recovered at the clinic in the hopes that his tender timidness would rub off on her, but unfortunately within a day of arrival at Crash’s she turned her fear of the unknown into aggression. It was so rough going at first that she became extremely violent when anyone so much as attempted to approach her.
Over the next few weeks though, as she grew more comfortable in her surroundings and realized that we are not the bad guys, her attitude changed and she was able to finally move past her disdain and hatred of humans. Even though she is far from fond of any of us two-legged creatures, she is smitten with other kittens and is ALWAYS found snuggled up close to one cat or another (or two or three!).
We believe that it is through our kindness towards her kitty companions that Chryssy is learning what it feels like to be loved unconditionally, and we know that patience and kindness will win her over. We are taking baby steps and asking her to toddle on after us towards a more peaceful coexistence; we are confident that her roommates will show her the way—and we are happy with whatever pace she sets for herself. Interested adopters must have a quiet home with no other pets or children.
We have no expectations of her other than to let her guard down and allow us to show her what compassion and tenderness is all about; if it takes weeks, months or even years, that is fine by us—we aren’t going anywhere and she can stay here as long as she pleases!
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.
It’s really easy to get discouraged or depressed during your job search. Here are five ways to keep your job search upbeat and successful.
Connect with past co-workers. Let them know you are on the hunt. You’ll be surprised how many are willing to help.
Volunteer. Use your free time to help at your favorite non-profit. Go to their office once or twice a week to build relationships with their staff members. It will give structure to your weekly schedule (and may lead to a job!). You could also volunteer at an industry conference. Use the opportunity to learn new information and meet other people in jobs similar to the one you want.
Wake up early. Wake up at the same time you did while working. Keep your body in the routine of waking up, showering and eating breakfast. By 9 a.m., you’ll be ready to conquer the day.
Stay Sharp. Set a daily schedule. Block off times for online job searching and informational interviews. End your day by making a to-do list for the next day.
Try something new. Job searching is stressful and tiring. So, take a few hours a week to try something new and fun. Run a 5k race or try a new dinner recipe.
Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.
Looking for an exciting way to enhance your summer, learn something new and qualify for prizes in the process?
Look no further, as Kent District Library is again poised to offer its popular Summer Reading at KDL that last year attracted more than 27,000 children and adults to its wide range of books, programs and activities.
This year’s annual program, sponsored by Consumers Energy, kicks off Monday, June 5 and extends through mid-August. You can sign up at kdl.READsquared.com, or just stop into any KDL branch.
“Summer is our favorite – and busiest – time of the year,” says Michelle Boisvenue-Fox, director of innovation and user experience at KDL. “We love offering free programs to get people excited about reading and summer. And rewarding people for reading with prizes has been a longtime tradition for libraries. We want to keep kids reading in the summer months.”
Those who register for Summer Reading at KDL can qualify for prizes by tallying the number of books they read, or tracking the points they accumulate by attending activities.
But perhaps the best gain – especially for students – is how reading throughout the vacation months helps forestall the “summer slide” that negatively affects learning between the end and start of the traditional school year.
Extensive research shows that children involved in summertime reading programs sponsored by public libraries are more likely to retain their edge come the start of school, and in many cases do better on standardized tests offered at the beginning of the academic year.
This summer’s program lineup will include appearances by magician Tom Plunkard, The Village Puppeteers, Audacious Hoops and many more.
The Grand Valley State University Police Academy’s 2017 class is the largest in more than 13 years, with 40 recruits.
The class is also one of the most diverse, consisting of 12 women (11 white, one Asian) and 28 men (22 white, four African American, two Hispanic).
Williamson Wallace, director of Criminal Justice Training at Grand Valley, said 13 recruits are already employed by area law enforcement agencies that are sponsoring their training.
The academy is conducted annually during the spring/summer semester, May–August. Grand Valley’s academy goes beyond the mandatory minimum training requirement of 594 hours set by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and provides 653 hours of instruction in 16 weeks.
Wallace said the academy is a leader in the state, introducing innovative training methods and techniques that are setting the bar for law enforcement education.
Judy Collins will be making her St. Cecilia Music Center debut in early 2018. (Supplied)
St. Cecilia Music Center
The 2017-18 concert season at St. Cecilia Music Center includes the always remarkable Chamber Music of Lincoln Center series and a dynamite lineup for the Jazz Series. But the highlight of the winter may well be a visit by the incomparable Judy Collins as part of the Acoustic Café Series.
“Since its inception in the 2015-16 season the Acoustic Café Folk Series has expanded its offerings and brought some of today’s up and coming artists, as well as some of the veterans of the singer/songwriter genre,” said Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive director. “We currently have two artists booked who represent generations of great music making … (including) the appearance of renowned and beloved singer Judy Collins.”
St. Cecilia’s Royce Auditorium stage concerts begin Oct. 26 and run through spring 2018. Series and individual ticket sales have started.
The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center perform three times during the season with CMS artistic directors Wu Han and David Finckel featured in two of the three concerts. Programs include the works of Mozart, Brahms, Dvořák, and Beethovan. Concert dates are Nov. 2, Jan. 18, 2018, and April 19, 2018.
The 11th season of SCMC’s Jazz Series is appropriately entitled “The Encore Season” as it brings back favorite performers from the past 10 years. This special season will feature four concerts with performers who have all appeared at SCMC: Grammy-winning bassist Christian McBride on Nov. 16, contemporary jazz pianist Brad Mehldau on Nov. 30, Grammy-winning vocalist Gregory Porter on Feb. 22, 2018, and multi-Grammy nominated baritone vocalist Kurt Elling on March 22, 2018.
As part of a still-evolving Acoustic Café Series, singer/songwriter Collins will make her first appearance at St. Cecilia on Feb. 1, 2018. Before that, guitarist Leo Kottke will return to the Royce stage on Oct. 26. The Acoustic Café Series, in partnership with the syndicated radio show of the same name and its host Rob Reinhart, will bring these two legends of folk to the 2017/2018 season, with additional concerts to be announced later in the year.
Series subscription tickets are available now — subscription prices represent a 15 percent discount on regular single ticket prices and a reduced $7 fee for the pre-concert reception. The usual cost of the pre-concert wine and hors d’oeuvres reception is $15 per person, per concert for all Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and Jazz Series concerts.
Single tickets are also available at this time. A post-party is included with each ticket where patrons are able to meet the artists and obtain signed CDs of their music.
For more information and tickets, visit scmc-online.org, call St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224, or visit the box office at 24 Ransom Ave. NE, Grand Rapids.
The sweet sound of country is coming to the Van Singel when homegrown music artist Mallory Skilling returns to West Michigan, performing a benefit concert for the Van Singel Fine Arts Foundation. Former Byron Center native and former Cornerstone University student is set to perform with her band at the Van Singel Fine Arts Center on Thursday, May 18, at 7:30 p.m.
As a young girl, the singer/songwriter, attended Byron Center Public Schools. She studied contemporary music performance at Cornerstone University, completing her degree at the Contemporary Music Center in Nashville, Tenn. During her time at Cornerstone, Skilling released her first EP, “Spitfire Heart.” Since the release of her first EP, Mallory has added several singles to her collection, which can be found on both iTunes and Spotify. Her music is inspired by many artists including Patsy Cline, Miranda Lambert, Alison Krauss, The Band Perry, and the Civil Wars.
Currently, Skilling is working toward her master’s degree in elementary education at the University of Georgia and plans to graduate this December. She is, “looking forward to teaching students and sharing my love of music in the classroom.” She added, “I have many fond memories attending shows at the Van Singel as a child.” The Van Singel Fine Arts Center was the core to Skilling’s inspiration for the love of music and theater. She found that she was greatly impacted by her experiences through events presented at the center. She is thrilled to be returning to her roots and performing at there.
Skilling continues to pursue her music endeavors and has recently recorded a small EP composed of four songs that will soon be released.
Band members include former Cornerstone University student Ben Hoppe (acoustic guitarist), Cornerstone University graduate Jake Milo Partridge (drummer), Evan Profant (electric guitarist) and Daniel Schuler (Bass) from Ann Arbor.
Reserved seats are $25 and include a post-performance dessert buffet where patrons can meet the artist. Reserve tickets in person at the Van Singel box office or by calling 616-878-6800, Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are also available at www.vsfac.com.
The Van Singel Fine Arts Center is located at the east end of the Byron Center High School complex, at 8500 Burlingame SW (84th Street and Burlingame SW) in Byron Center, just 1.5 miles west of US-131. The Van Singel features free, easy parking and curbside handicap parking is available.
In a room at Godwin Heights High School that formerly served as the site for in-house suspension, students now come for help in the areas of college, career and comfort.
The Empowerment Room is a recently revamped space serving a two-pronged purpose: a needed area for decompression and quiet, and a place to think big about the future.
“It’s a humongous paradigm shift,” said school counselor Kristi Bonilla, referring to it as a place of support rather than punishment. “The hope, goal, dream of this is that kids feel like they have a place to reset, recharge, refocus and be empowered.”
Juniors Dominic Donato and Mamadee Diabate take a break.
While the room is still in its infancy, Bonilla and fellow counselor Tish Stevenson envision it as a place where students can take momentary refuge. It could be during lunch, when they have time outside of class, or when the demands of teenage life bubble over and they need to reel in their emotions. They can also use it to channel their energy into preparation for what comes after graduation day.
“We wanted it to be a center for yoga, breathing and reset time,” Stevenson said. “We also wanted it to be a place for community members to meet with students.”
Meetings have already taken place between students and representatives from college, the military and the Urban League, who helped students apply for jobs.
Yoga sessions will begin soon.
Funded by a $1,000 grant from Wyoming Community Foundation, the room’s seating area has space for reclining and relaxing, comfy chairs and pillow. Yoga mats fill a corner bin, ready for poses. Students come in for the peacefulness, to talk to the counselors and eat lunch in a quiet place.
“We have a long day,” Stevenson said. “If you are a teenager mixing in with all the other teenagers in the day, you need a break.”
Equipping Students with Lifelong Skills
Bonilla and Stevenson have both completed training in cognitive behavior modification at the University of Michigan. They are using it to help students become more mindful, aware and rational in reacting to situations.
Yoga helps students deal with stress.
The end goal is to improve learning and develop lifelong skills, plus decrease detentions and suspension using a non-punitive approach. While the school still uses detentions and in-house and out-of-school suspensions, the counselors aim to be proactive in addressing behavior issues.
Common stressors in teens’ lives include test anxiety, social anxiety, family issues and relationships. Those things often manifest themselves as behavior problems.
“Being a teenager is stressful,” Stevenson said.
Juniors Mamadee Diabate and Dominic Donato juggle between classes at Godwin Heights and programs at Kent Career Technical Center, as well as working and volunteering. They both often come to the room to relax and talk with counselors.
“I feel it will be beneficial for our students because there’s a lot of stress going on,” Mamadee said. “I definitely will use it for yoga.”
“It’s kind of a relaxing place to let stuff come out,” Dominic said, “… not talk to anyone, and just be quiet.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
A familiar face has returned to the City of Wyoming this month as Megan Sall stepped into the role of assistant city manager.
In her new role, Sall will serve as the city manager’s principal representative in various administrative affairs with an emphasis on economic development and downtown development. She will also serve as communication director and will be responsible for managing the City’s website, social media platforms and media inquiries. She will also be responsible for directing and monitoring city projects, acting as liaison between the city manager and department heads, community groups, boards and designated government agencies.
“We are excited to have Megan back at the City in this new and expanded role,” said Wyoming City Manger Curtis Holt. “She brings a passion for municipal work, community engagement and the City of Wyoming, along with a strong understanding of who we are.
Megan’s past work with us, along with the expertise and skills she has developed in the interim, will allow her to be a tremendous asset to our continued growth and development.”
Sall comes to the city with experience in economic development and governance in both local and national organizations. She began her career as assistant to the city manager in Wyoming before moving on to work as downtown development authority director and community services coordinator.
Sall then took the role of campaign coordinator and legislative aide for regional political and governing figures and went on to become program manager at International City/County Management Association in Washington, D.C. Returning to Grand Rapids, Sall worked as business development manager for The Right Place and then project and engagement manager at CQL Incorporated.
Sall received her bachelor’s degree in international relations and her masters in public administration from Grand Valley State University.
Sall is an active community member, serving on the board of Grand Valley State University. She also mentors at the Cook Leadership Academy at Grand Valley State University and has worked on the planning committee for the Great Lakes Software Excellence Conference and as a cabinet member of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Gateway Transformation Campaign.
As of May 1, following a long-standing affiliation, Michigan Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., officially joins Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.
Formed in 1995, Michigan OB/GYN has been aligned with Metro Health from its beginning.
“After 20 years of working closely with the Metro Health system, the timing was right for us to become fully integrated as Metro Health – University of Michigan Health,” said Dr. Steven Lown, physician executive for Metro Health OB/GYN. “Because of our long-standing relationship with Metro Health, we expect this transition will be seamless for our patients. We look forward to continuing to serve our patients as Metro Health OB/GYN.”
Patients will see very little change during physical office visits. All physicians are remaining with the practice. Metro Health OB/GYN will continue to see patients at several Metro neighborhood outpatient centers. These include:
Metro Health Allendale
Metro Health Caledonia
Metro Health Cedar Springs
Metro Health Comstock Park
Metro Health Grand Rapids
Metro Health Hudsonville
Metro Health Jenison
Metro Health Rockford
Metro Health Southwest
Metro Health Village
Metro Health Wayland
The telephone number for Metro Health OB/GYN is 616-252-4410.
“We are delighted to have Michigan Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., join Metro Health – University of Michigan Health,” said Mike Faas, president & CEO. “Collectively our goal is providing the best possible patient experience. The team that joins us now is outstanding in their service. Metro Health – University of Michigan Health looks forward to continuing to serve families of West Michigan in this new capacity.”
Softball is just one of several high school sports nearing the end of their season. Catch a game today!
By Mike Moll
WKTV Sports
There are plenty of local high school sports events to check out this week — including the beginnings of state playoffs for tennis and track — but the WKTV truck and crews will not be back covering games until next week.
The final spring game coverage will be:
Wednesday, May 24 – Boys Baseball, Hopkins @ Godwin Heights
Each game will be broadcast that night on Live Wire Comcast Channel 24 at 10:30 p.m. throughout the Grand Rapids Metro Area and repeat later in the week — Wednesday games will be rebroadcast Saturdays at 11 a.m. — on WKTV Comcast Channel 25 and AT&T U-verse Channel 99 in Wyoming & Kentwood.
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week in April, and any changes to the WKTV feature game schedule, see now.wktv.org/sports/
The complete list of local high school sports events this week due to spring break is as follows:
Monday, May 15
Boys baseball
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
Kelloggsville @ Belding
South Christian @ Covenant Christian – DH
Tri-Unity Christian @ Potter’sHouse – DH
Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Girls softball
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Cristian – DH
Kelloggsville @ Belding – DH
South Christian @ Covenant Christian – DH
Calvin Christian @ Wyoming Lee – DH
Girls soccer
Godwin Heights @ Covenant Christian
Calvin Christian @ Kelloggsville
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
West Michigan Aviation @ Fruitport Calvary
South Christian @ Christian
Belding @ Wyoming Lee
Boys golf
Comstock Park @ Wyoming
East Kentwood @ Muskegon Mona Shores
Girls tennis
South Christian @ Zeeland East
Tuesday, May 16
Girls Tennis
Western Michigan Christian @ Kelloggsville
North Muskegon @ South Christian
Boys baseball
Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills
Middleville T-K @ South Christian – DH
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – DH
Girls softball
Wyoming @ Kenowa Hills – DH
Middleville T-K @ South Christian – DH
East Kentwood @ Hudsonville – DH
Girls soccer
Hudsonville Hornets @ West Michigan Aviation
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Calvary
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Boys golf
Caledonia @ East Kentwood – OK Red Jamboree @ Stone Water
Wednesday, May 17
Girls soccer
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
Wyoming @ Wayland
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Boys golf
Kelloggsville – OK Silver Conference Tournament at The Meadows
Wyoming @ FH Eastern – OK Gold Jamboree @ Egypt Valley
South Christian @ FH Eastern – OK Gold Jamboree @ Egypt Valley
Boys baseball
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Tri-Unity Christian vs Holland Black River @ Fifth Third Ballpark – DH
Belding @ Wyoming Lee
Girls softball
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Belding @ Wyoming Lee
Thursday, May 18
Boys baseball
Tri-Unity Christian @ Godwin Heights
West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House
South Christian @ Middleville T-K
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood
Boys lacrosse
Catholic Central @ South Christian
Girls soccer
East Grand Rapids @ South Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Girls tennis
East Kentwood vs TBD @ Holland – MHSAA State Regionals
Girls softball
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Friday, May 19
Boys and girls track
Division 1 MHSAA State Regionals @ Kalamazoo-Loy Norrix
Division 2 MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field
Division 3 MHSAA State regionals @ Saugatuck
Division 4 MHSAA State Regionals @ Holton
Girls softball
Godwin Heights @ Comstock Park
Ottawa Hills @ Kelloggsville – DH
Wyoming @ West Ottawa – DH
South Christian @ Zeeland East – DH
Girls soccer
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Kelloggsville @ NorthPointe Christian
South Christian @ Holland Christian
Boys baseball
Godwin Heights @ Union
West Michigan Aviation @ Kelloggsville – DH
Wyoming @ West Ottawa – DH
Girls tennis
Godwin Heights @ Comstock Park
Kelloggsville @ Christian – MHSAA State Regionals
Girls water polo
@ TBA – MHSAA State Regionals
Saturday, May 20
Boys baseball
West Michigan Aviation @ Bloomingdale – DH
Auburn Hills Oakland Christian @ Potter’s House – DH
East Kentwood @ Lakeview – DH
Zion Christian @ Mason County Eastern
Zion Christian @ Western Michigan Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Saranac
Girls soccer
Zion Christian @ West Michigan Aviation
Boys and girls track
Division 1 MHSAA State Regionals @ Kalamazoo-Loy Norrix
Division 2 MHSAA State Regionals @ Houseman Field
Division 4 MHSAA State Regionals @ Holton
Girls water polo
@ TBA – MHSAA State Regionals
Girls softball
Muskegon Reeths-Puffer @ East Kentwood – DH
Wyoming Lee @ Saranac
Boys golf
East Kentwood vs TBA @ The Mines
Monday, May 22
Boys baseball
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
South Christian @ Unity Christian
Kenowa Hills @ East Kentwood
Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee – DH
Girls softball
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights – DH
FH Central @ South Christian – DH
East Kentwood @ Kenowa Hills
Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee – DH
Girls soccer
NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights
Belding @ Kelloggsville
West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
Boys golf
Wyoming @ Christian – OK Gold Conference Meet @ Thornapple Pointe
South Christian @ Christian – OK Gold Conference Meet @ Thornapple Pointe
The Wyoming Senior Center will host the May 22 seminar on fair housing.
To register, please call 616-530-3164 by May 15.
The City of Wyoming will host a seminar for rental property owners and housing professionals.
Free and open to the public, the City of Wyoming invites residents to learn more about housing-related topics. The seminar will take place in the Wyoming Senior Center Community Room, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW on Monday, May 22, from 9 am to noon.
Designed for Wyoming landlords, rental agents, property management personnel, real estate agents and residents, the three-hour training seminar will provide practical, up-to-date information to assist housing professionals in their daily compliance with fair housing laws, and provide information on local agencies and resources who address various housing-related needs.
Topics and speakers include:
“Tenant-based rental assistance: How may your clients qualify?” will be presented by Community Rebuilders
“Fair housing practice update: How are you affected and what are your responsibilities?” will be presented by Fair Housing Center of West Michigan
“City of Wyoming rental inspections program update: How is the four-year certification process working?” presented by the City of Wyoming Building Inspections Department
The Rental Property Owners Association and Wyoming Building Inspections Department will be available after the sessions to answer any questions.
A continental breakfast will be served. Seminar completion certificates will be provided upon completion. The educational seminar is sponsored by the Wyoming Community Development Department and the Rental Property Owners Association.
The City of Kentwood will have various equipment out at its Public Works Open House set for May 17.
We see the snow trucks clearing the roads during the winter and we drive past traffic lights and street signs but it is not until you get up close to these items that you discover just how big these items really are.
Wyoming and Kentwood residents will get that first-hand view of snow plows and other public works equipment as both the cities celebrate National Public Works Week with open houses.
In 1960, the American Public Works Association established National Public Works Week to create a better understand of the various responsibilities of a Public Works facility in maintaining the infrastructure of its community. This includes such areas as ground maintenance, sewer and water, potholes and road maintenance, and snowplowing to list a few of the many services provided by these departments.
“It is an opportunity for us to share what we do and to get information out to the people on the various items we take care, the water systems, the sewer system, the streets and all the details related,” said Kentwood Public Works Director John Gorney.
Kentwood is hosting its second National Public Works Week event Wednesday, May 17, from 4 – 7 p.m. at the Kentwood Public Works building, located at 5069 Breton Rd. SE. Last year, about 400 people attended the first-ever event.
Again this year, the Kent County Road Commission and the Kent County Department of Public Works will join Kentwood’s Public Works event. Participants will have the opportunity to sit in the driver’s seat of a plow, grader and other equipment. There will be live demonstrations about the maintenance and repair of water and sewer systems, along with information about the care and maintenance of the city roads. Residents will learn about the safe disposal of household waste. Free hotdogs and refreshments will be available.
Residents will be able to tour the Wyoming Public Works Department at its event May 15.
The evening will include a proclamation by Kentwood Mayor Steven Kepley and the opportunity to meet local Public Works and Kent County Road Commission employees. During the event, the winners of the Work Zone Poster competition will be announced. The contest asked local third grade students to design a new Work Zone sign, and a gallery of all entries will be showcased at the event.
City of Wyoming
One of the oldest and longest running National Public Works Week event is hosted by the City of Wyoming, which is Monday, May 15, 5 – 8 p.m. at the Public Works Facility, 2660 Burlingame Ave. SW.
This is the 23rd year the City of Wyoming has hosted a National Public Works Week event with it becoming quite popular with residents showing up early and waiting for the event to start. Staff estimated about 1,800 people visited the facility within the three-hour time span last year.
During Wyoming’s event, various Public Works Department equipment will be on hand for people to explore along with a police cruiser and fire truck. Staff will be on hand to talk to visitors about equipment and projects as well as serving free beverages, chips, and, of course, hotdogs. The purpose of the event is to give the public a chance to ask questions, learn about what the Public Works Department is all about and the services the department provides, according to staff.
National Public Works Week this year is actually May 21 to May 27 and many local organizations, such as Wyoming and Kentwood, are hosting events. The City of Grandville will host a barbecue Wednesday, May 17, from 5 – 7 p.m. at the KDL Grandville branch, 4055 Maple St. SW. The City of East Grand Rapids will host its Touch-a-Truck event Wednesday, May 24, starting at 10 a.m. at the KDL East Grand Rapids branch, 750 Lakeside Dr. SE.
The Eclipse Awards honors content creators for Excellence in Craft in the disciplines of film, television, video, acting, sound, music, writing, direction, and visual effects. Created by WKTV Community Television and Media as a means of empowering the West Michigan “voice” of content creators, the Eclipse Awards has become the “big event” for the creative community. Since its beginning in 2012, The Eclipse Awards has spread across the state of Michigan to include content creators from the east side as well.
Judging in the Eclipse Awards is done by the nearly 200 previous nominees, recipients and select industry leaders in Los Angeles and New York City. Voting members score the works they view and through arbitrary tabulation, the Eclipse Award is decided upon for each category and craft. Winners are not known until the envelopes are opened on stage at the award presentation — this year on Thursday, May 18, 2017, at 6:30 p.m. at the City Flats Ballroom, 77 Monroe Avenue in Grand Rapids.
On Monday May 15th, the Official Nominees Certification takes place at 7 p.m. at the JW Marriot, downtown Grand Rapids. This year nearly 90 nominees and their guests participate in a classy-casual event of meeting each other, photo ops and receiving the formal certificate confirming their nomination in this year’s awards.
The Awards ceremony will be televised same night, Thursday May 18, starting at 10 p.m.
To see clips of previous years ceremony and images, visit theeclipseaward.com.
When eighth-grader Jaden Delosh started attending the middle school right after spring break, he was happy to have Ke’Waun Blackmon show him around.
“It gave me a friend,” said Jaden, who moved from Waterford, near Detroit.
Ke’Waun made the transition a little easier, showing him around to classrooms introducing him to teachers and classmates, and inviting him to join him at lunch.
About 30 students in grade six through eight are assigned as mentors to befriend and welcome new students, making sure they feel welcome.
Counselor Michelle Barrows started the mentorship program, which involves twice monthly meetings, to build a team of students that reach out to others, whether that’s new students or anyone appearing isolated or upset. Teachers recommended students to serve as mentors who have showed good leadership skills and the ability to take initiative.
“They are a force for positive change in this school,” Barrows said. “If they see someone being made fun of or who is crying, they are supposed to step up.”
Ke’Wau Blackmon is helping new student Jaden Delosh around Kelloggsville Middle School.
They have welcomed 41 new students this year, and many have formed relationships. Sixth-grade mentors will also help fifth-graders during Move-Up Day in May, when the younger students visit to tour their new school building.
Mentors participated in “Start with Hello,” part of the Sandy Hook Promise campaign, which equips students with skills needed to reach out to and include those who may be dealing with chronic social isolation. The goal is to create a culture of inclusion and connectedness within their school.
The Sandy Hook Promise is a national non-profit organization founded and led by several family members whose loved ones were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec. 14, 2012. It provides programs and practices that protect children.
“I really want it to make it a little more than just showing a new kid around,” Barrows said.
Ke’Waun said mentoring Jaden and another student earlier this year has helped him learn how to “be friends with everyone.”
“I learned how to respect different people and to have good relationships,” he said.
“I said, ‘If you need anything, you can come to me and ask me. I just made them my friends… It was really fun helping other students come to our school and know they are going to be safe and have a good time here.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Peters, Carper, Hassan, Harris Urge DOJ Inspector General to Investigate Political Interference with Russia Investigation
U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Tom Carper (D-DE), Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Kamala Harris (D-CA) all members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, sent a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General calling for an inquiry into possible political interference with the FBI’s investigation into the Trump campaign’s alleged involvement with Russia during the 2016 presidential election. Peters, Hassan and Harris are members of the Federal Spending Oversight and Emergency Management Subcommittee, and U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-DE) serves as Ranking Member of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.
In the letter, the Senators call on the Inspector General to investigate the allocation of resources for the Russia investigation; the intent and timing of Comey’s termination, including the role of Attorney General Jeff Sessions in the termination despite his decision to recuse himself from the Russia investigation; and whether any actions of the DOJ or the White House constitute political interference in the FBI investigation.
Peters, Stabenow Call on Trump Administration to Protect Worker and Retiree Pensions
U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow led a group of 14 Senators outlining the importance of protecting pensions for workers and retirees. The Senators requested information from the Administration on its plan to address critical issues in the multi-employer pension system.
“As you may know, millions of American workers and retirees — through no fault of their own — are at risk of losing a substantial portion of their pensions because their plans are at imminent risk of becoming insolvent and being unable to pay earned benefits on time and in full,” wrote the Senators. “Some multi-employer pension plans across the country, including Central States with its more than 400,000 participants, are in dire financial situations.”
Peters Speaks on Firing of FBI Director James Comey
Peters: The past four months suggest that our president thinks he can simply tweet and fire his way out of this problem while continuing to cozy up to Russia.
U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) spoke on the Senate floor about President Trump’s firing of Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Director James Comey in the midst of an FBI investigation into potential collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. Peters reiterated his call from March for a special prosecutor to conduct a nonpartisan, independent investigation into Russia’s involvement in our elections.
Watch his remarks here:
Peters Leads Bipartisan Group of Senators in Calling for Farm Service Agency Loan Funding
U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) today led a bipartisan group of 28 Senators in a letter to the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture urging them to support robust funding for the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) loan programs. FSA provides direct loans and loan guarantees to help struggling family farmers start and maintain viable farming operations.
“These loans are cost-efficient and work in tandem with private credit to serve farmers in need,” wrote the Senators. “Because of these loans, family farmers can get their crops in the ground and continue to serve their customers, even during tough economic times. Without FSA loans, these farmers would lack access to the operating capital that is necessary for any farm business to stay afloat.”
FSA loans aim to help small farms that cannot otherwise obtain favorable credit, including beginning farmers, women and minorities, and other disadvantaged borrowers. FSA’s loan programs include operating loans, which fund expenses such as livestock, equipment and seed, and ownership loans that help farmers develop land. Recent years have seen increased demand for FSA’s loan programs. In June 2016, hundreds of farmers whose loans had already been approved could not receive the funds due to a shortfall in funding for FSA operating loans. As a result, Congress was forced to pass an emergency appropriation in December of 2016 to address the shortfall.
Russo’s International Market, located on 29th Street in Grand Rapids but right on the City of Kentwood border, has announced plans to open a second location in downtown Grand Rapids — a return home, of sorts, according to the company’s president.
“Since opening in 1905, my grandfather made it his mission to serve the Grand Rapids community. Our first location was on Division in what was known as ‘Little Italy’,” Phil Russo, president of Russo’s International Market, said in supplied material. “When we needed more room, we opened up on 29th Street. … We always knew we would return to our roots and this second location will allow us to serve the downtown community as we once did 112 years ago.”
Russo’s International Market, located on 29th Street on the City of Kentwood border, has not plans to close its current location. (Supplied)
The new location is planned for the former Bagger Dave’s location at 241 W. Fulton St. The new location is in the city planning and approval stage at this time. According to a company spokesperson, “there are no plans to close the 29th Street location” with the opening of the downtown location.
The market is also plans to expand its offerings with the new location by adding a restaurant, coffee bar and a gelato bar in addition to the market, deli and beverage products currently available at the 29th Street store.
Russo’s is a family-owned business — for many years it was named “G.B. Russo & Son” — and the family plans to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community celebration once approval and construction is finished. Russo’s International Market is currently run by the 3rd and 4th generation of the Russo family.
A big reason for the decision to expand back into downtown, according to a release from the company, is the expansion of residential offerings in the area and other economic factors.
According to the Russo’s release, “with the growing number of downtown residents, the need for retail options within the downtown area is evident.”
According to Downtown Grand Rapids, 183 residential units were added to the downtown Grand Rapids area in 2015, with an additional 1,437 proposed units to be developed shortly after. With the addition of the proposed units, downtown Grand Rapids would house 5,201 residential units. Downtown Grand Rapids’ goal is to reach 10,000 residential units within the downtown area by 2025.
“The Grand Rapids community has been so devoted to our family-business throughout the years, and our goal is to continue to serve the community to the best of our ability, Russo said. “We realized the lack of offerings for downtown residents, and this gave us the opportunity to return to downtown Grand Rapids and serve the growing residential population,” said Russo.
The Fulton Street location is in addition to the store’s existing 18,000 sq. ft. location on 29th Street, which was purchased in 1976, and expanded in 2008. The expansion comes nearly two months after a rebrand to commemorate the company’s historic 112 years in Grand Rapids. For more information visit russosgr.com .
You might have a little extra free time this summer or have the desire to go on a road trip. With so many things to do and places to visit in West Michigan, how will you decide what to do? That’s where the West Michigan Summer Bucket List comes in handy. See how many places you can visit, or discover something completely new to add to your vacation schedule.
West Michigan
Navigate freely through the trees at Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park. Their event to kick off the season, Treetops Summer Kick-Off, is May 20th with discounted tickets for shortened climb times, zip rides, giveaways, and special offers.
Visit Grand Haven and the Electric Bike Place’s brand new MACTrack. This multi-terrain test track allows you to test ride some of the most popular electric bikes in the industry. Bring a lunch, enjoy a few hours of riding, and come talk about ebikes with their knowledgeable staff.
Visit the eight unique museums in the Marshallarea. These eight museums feature a one-room school house, a house built in the Polynesian style, Civil War museum, governor’s mansion, U.S. postal museum, magic museum, country church, and gasoline museum. May 20th is tourism day in Marshall, and all the museums will be free to the public to celebrate.
Bring out your inner treasure hunter at Antiques on the Bluff in St. Joseph. Held along tree-lined Lake Bluff Park overlooking Lake Michigan, this antique show is a premier event for St. Joseph and antiquers around Southwest Michigan when it pops up on the first Sunday of each month from May through October.
Visit Saugatuck, recently named the #1 Best Small Towns to Visit in Michigan by Crazy Tourist and Best Small Town Weekend Escape by USA Today, making it a place that needs to be on your bucket list. There’s no better way to see the town than a trip on the Star of Saugatuck. Featuring entertaining narration and a wonderful view of the town, you’ll want to be on the water when the Star of Saugatuck started their season on Saturday, May 6th.
Find exciting treasures at Downtown Market’s two summer pop-up shops. The Vintage Street Market is Grand Rapid’s only monthly vintage market, popping up the second Sunday of each month from May until September. This year’s Vintage Street Market vendors were carefully curated to provide the best variety of vintage goods Grand Rapids has to offer. The Made In Michigan Pop Up Marketfeatures over 50 vendors who proudly “make” in Michigan! Vendors bring their wares to the market on Saturdays, May 27th, June 24th, July 22nd, August 26th, and September 23rd.
Visit the Jewel of Barry County at the Historic Charlton Parkin Hastings. Situated on 310 acres along beautiful Thornapple Lake, you can easily cool off at the beach, launch your boat, hike the trails, or pack a picnic for a relaxing meal. Join the park for their many special events, including Charlton Park Day, Father’s Day Car Show, 4th of July and Veteran’s BBQ, Gas & Steam Engine Show, and more.
From Muskegon Museum of Art’s Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian Exhibit
The Muskegon Museum of Arthas an internationally recognized exhibit, Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian, from May 11th to September 10th. This exhibit is the most comprehensive ethnographic and photographic historical record of Native Americans ever produced, comprised of 20 volumes of research and 723 photogravures.
Go to one (or 12) of LowellArt’s Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts. These free outdoor summer concerts run from June 15th to August 24th at the Riverwalk Plaza in downtown
Lowell with food and spirits available for purchase. Enjoy music from all genres, including jazz, country, big band, rock, R&B, and more all summer long.
Shoot sporting clays with your family at Blendon Pines in Zeeland. This activity is both safe and fun, with knowledgeable staff who are ready to help. Walk through the groomed trails to the 12 different shooting stations. Line up your shot and try your best to be the best sharpshooter in your family!
Visit Hastings for their brand new summer concert series, Hastings Live! Wednesday evenings feature the best in local music, while their Friday Night Features include regional artists and rising stars such as Hip Pocket, The Crane Wives, The Accidentals, and more. Listen to new music all summer with this new concert series.
The Lake County Historical Museum in Baldwin is a must-see museum. Located in a restored 1938 CCC-built U.S. Forest Service district ranger residence, the museum is filled with Lake County artifacts of every sort. There’s also the memorial garden, which is beautiful through the summer months and a highlight in downtown Baldwin.
Historic White Pine Village
Surround yourself with Civil War re-enactors at the Historic White Pine Village in Ludington. This is the site of a Civil War Muster featuring many re-enactors encamped on the grounds. Visitors will experience cannon firings, small arms interpretation, and morning colors.
Sail Lake Michigan aboard a Pirates of the Caribbean themed cruise with the S.S. Badger in Ludington. Passengers can wear pirate costumes and speak in pirate lingo on this festive Lake Michigan shoreline cruise aboard America’s last coal-fired steamship. Tickets are $39 and include a buffet with desserts and soft drink and live music.
Further afield
Celebrate the birthplace of cereal at National Cereal Fest in Battle Creek. The festival begins on Friday, June 9th with the Grand Cereal Parade, and continues on Saturday, June 10 with the World’s Longest Breakfast Table. Grab a bite with all-you-can-eat cereal.
The Inland Seas Education Association in Suttons Bay has three sails this summer that deserve a spot on your Bucket List. Their Breakfast on the Schooner Sail is Saturday, July 1st and Friday, August 25th, where you can enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast as you sail around Suttons Bay. On Friday, June 23d and July 21st, their Astronomy Under Sail gives you one of the best views of the night sky along with some informative commentary. Their Meteor Show Sail on Friday, August 11th, lets you see this amazing natural phenomenon aboard the 77’ schooner.
Schooner sailing
Many people have a visit to the Grand Hotelon Mackinac Island on their Bucket List. With the hotel’s Family Added Value Days available select nights in July and August, you and your family can have the full Grand Hotel experience while saving along the way. Stay three nights and get the fourth night free, stay two nights and get the third night half off, or stay one night and get the second night 25% off. These stays include what has made the Grand Hotel such a sought-after destination, but with a little savings.
Explore a tropical garden filled with hundreds of exotic butterflies at the Grand Traverse Butterfly House and Bug Zoo in Williamsburg. Watch honeybees making honey, find your favorite tarantula inside the Tarantula Tree display, and discover beetles and friends in the Beetle Boulder.
Hop aboard a Tommy’s Rentals Sunset Cruise at Hotel Walloon on Walloon Lake. Offered every Friday night in the summer, these cruises include a captain, appetizer, wine, and beer. Also offered throughout the summer are the outdoor movies in the Village Green Park on Thursday nights. Grab a blanket or park your boat at the dock to catch an outdoor movie starting June 29th.
See some of the area’s best animals compete at the Berrien County Youth Fairon August 14th to 19th. There’s also concerts, carnival rides, food, and more to fill your week at the fair.
Visit Mecosta County and the second longest river in Michigan, the Muskegon River. On the
river, you can go tubing, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, and more. There’s 14 places to purchase a fishing license in the area, making it easier than ever to hit the waters in search for the big catch of the day.
Tahquamenon Falls
Visitors to Sault Ste. Marie have two attractions worthy of your bucket list: and the Soo Locks. Tahquamenon Falls is a 50-foot waterfall, with a park that is open year-round. The Soo Locks is widely considered a man-made wonder, used to help ships traverse the 21-foot drop between Lake Superior and Lake Huron every day and night. There’s much more fun to be had in Sault Ste. Marie, but these should be at the top of your list of things to see and do.
Celebrate Mackinac Island’s oldest hotel with a visit to the Island House Hotel. This historic landmark was originally commissioned by Charles O’Malley to be his summer beach house, and 165 years later, you can stay there when they celebrate their anniversary on July 7th.
Ride antique bikes in vintage or traditional British cycling attire and stay at Mission Point Resort during the Lakeside Ride with a Bit of Style on May 12th. The two-mile ride takes you through downtown historic Mackinac Island and past the Arch Rock in the state park. The event is free and open to all, but the best way to experience the event is with the Tweed Ride Experience Package from Mission Point Resort.
Find Michigan’s State Stone, the Petoskey Stone, or visit Avalanche Bay at Boyne Mountain Resort, Michigan’s largest indoor water park when you visit the Petoskey area.
If ziplining is one of those things you can’t wait to try, check out Wildwood Rush in Boyne City with its 1,200 foot triple racing line.
Rent a pontoon and make it a day of relaxation on the many lakes of Coldwater, or go to one of the remaining drive-in movie theaters in the state at the Capri Drive-In. Recently upgraded to digital, the Capri Drive-In shows first-run double features on each of the two screens.
Get the “up north” experience and try a new sport at Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire. Guests will find the beauty of the woods and water of northern Michigan at a slower pace far from the crowds and traffic. You can even try a unique sport called FootGolf, a hybrid of golf and soccer, that’s sweeping the world of golf in recent years. It is now a recognized tournament sport in over 20 countries, and the American FootGolf League recognizes 85 participating U.S. courses in 29 states.
For many, a trip over the Mackinac Bridge is a bucket list worthy goal, but once you arrive on the other side and head north, you’re treated to Marquette County. Here, you can visit Sugarloaf Mountain or go for a scenic hike at Presque Isle Park, often considered the finest natural city park in the world.
Waldo Wright’s Flying Service
Experience lazy-eights, steep and shallow 360 degree turns, and maybe even a few “whoopty-dos” at Waldo Wright’s Flying Service in Portage. Carrying up to 4 passengers in a large front-open cockpit, guests experience the sensations of flight in the open cockpit. See, smell, feel, and hear the experience for yourself on one of these rides.
For 42 years, the St. Ignace Car Show has been a Michigan summer staple for people who love automobiles. This year, Car Show weekend is June 22nd to 24th, when hundreds of custom, antique, and celebrity automobiles will be on display in the streets of this quaint Upper Peninsula community. This event is great for families and conveniently located near beaches, parks, hiking trails, and Mackinac Island ferries.
Enjoy West Michigan’s finest display of fireworks on July 3rd from the deck of the Michigan Maritime Museum’stall ship, Friends Good Will. Sail out of South Haven onto Lake Michigan as you watch the fireworks light up the lake and sky on this memorable cruise.
Take the ferry out of Charlevoix to one of Lake Michigan’s most hidden gems: Beaver Island —America’s Emerald Isle. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride as you dock in Paradise Bay, surrounded by turquoise water and welcoming lighthouses. Tours are offered Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The Leila Arboretum & Kaleidoscope Garden in Battle Creek is a must-visit for families. Their Fantasy Forest is an amazing display of artistic talent and creativity. In 2015 and 2016, artists gathered from around the country to transform a grove of 100-year-old Ash trees into stunning works of art. They also have their Kaleidoscope Garden. Like the popular children’s toy, the Kaleidoscope Garden is always changing, highlighting different colors, shapes, and experiences as the seasons progress. Throughout the one-acre garden, visitors will take a closer look at how plants affect their everyday lives while getting a glimpse into some of Battle Creek’s interesting history.
The Grand Haven area’s Musical Fountain is truly one of a kind. The Grand Haven Musical Fountain is a synchronized water and light show accompanied by music of all varieties. Each 25-minute show features a variety of well-known music. The 2017 season opened on May 5th and runs through September.
See historical re-enactments at the 17th Annual Feast of the Strawberry Moon in Grand Haven on June 10th. This event brings in approximately 250 re-enactors, entertainers, demonstrators, and period vendors to provide the experience of the 18th century.
See how many rides you can squeeze into a day at Michigan’s Adventure in Muskegon. They have everything from high-thrill roller coasters and water rides to the relaxing Lazy River. At Michigan’s Adventure, you get two parks for the price of one.
The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 established a network of Community Action Agencies (CAAs) across the country as a part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty. CAAs were created to coordinate poverty relief programs and help people in their communities achieve self-sufficiency. Today there are over 1,000 Community Action Agencies serving 99% of the counties in the US.
Each May is recognized as Community Action Month and provides an opportunity to celebrate the work CAA’s continue to do in the fight against poverty. ACSET Community Action Agency (CAA) is doing this work here in Kent County.
ACSET CAA’s Mission: We fight the causes and circumstances of poverty by investing in low-income individuals and families. Through dedicated staff and community partnerships we provide services, resources, education and advocacy to improve the quality of life for all residents of Kent County.
Each year ACSET CAA, with help from partnering agencies and volunteers, serves over 5000 Kent County residents. Most of these individuals live at 100% or less of federal poverty guidelines — that’s $2,050 per month or less for a family of four. They offer a variety of programs for low-income individuals, including:
Senior Services
Food Distribution
Transportation
Utility Assistance
Weatherization
Tax Preparation
Homeless Prevention
To learn more or find out if you qualify for services, contact ACSET CAA at 616.336.4000 or find them online at www.communityactionkent.org.
Your Community in Action! is provided by ASCET Community Action Agency. To learn more about how they help meet emergency needs and assist with areas of self-sufficiency, visit www.communityactionkent.org
The Meyer May House is one of the homes feature in the “Grand Homes of Heritage Hill” series.
One of the area’s most popular home tours returns this month, the Heritage Hill 2017 Weekend Tour of Homes, and to help whet your appetite, WKTV will once again be airing “The Grand Homes of Heritage Hill” which includes a peek inside a home currently closed to the public.
“Grand Homes of Heritage Hill,” produced by WKTV volunteer Thomas Hegewald, kicks off Monday, May 15, with a 9 a.m. airtime for The Connors House, which is a privately owned home. On Thursdays, May 16, at 6 p.m., the next installment will feature The Meyer May House, which was restored and owned by Steelcase. Last the installment will feature The Voigt House, which is owned by the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Tours through the house were discontinued in 2009, making Hegewald’s show the only way for the general public to view the home. This show, which Hegewald received a 2007 Telly Award and a 2007 Festival of the Arts film award, will be aired Friday, May 19, at noon, the day before the Heritage Hill tour starts.
The Heritage Hill 2017 Weekend Tour of Homes is May 20 and 21 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and May 22 from noon to 6 p.m. Advance tickets are $18 and available through www.heritagehillweb.org or the Heritage Hill Association office, 126 College Ave. SE.; Martha’s Vineyard, 200 Union Ave. NE; Art of the Table, 606 Wealth St. SE; D&W, Family Fare, Forest Hills Foods and Lake Michigan Credit Union locations.
“The Grand Homes of Heritage Hill” episode feature The Voigt House won a Telly Award.
Tickets on the weekend of the tour are $25 and available only at GRCC DeVos campus, 435 E. Fulton.
On the ticket, there is a map of all the homes. You can see the houses in any order and on either or both days. Walk, bike or take the free shuttle buses that stop at each house on the tour. You can get on and off the bus at each house. If you are interested in getting a free ticket, volunteer. For more information to do that, email heritage@heritagehillweb.org or call 616-459-8950.
Houses for this year’s tour are: the 1874 the Italinate-style home at 71 LaFayette NE; the Amber House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright protégé Marion Mahoney at 505 College SE; the 1886 Queen Anne-style home at 521 Madison SE; the Victorian Gothic cottage at 264 Paris SE; the Stick Style home at 417 Crescent NE; the Craftsman Style home at 544 College SE; the 1903 Widdicomb furniture family home at 422 Fountain NE; Oakwood Manor at 547 Cherry SE; the Calkins Law Office at 237 State St. SE; Child Discover Center at 409 LaFayette SE; and the Women’s City Club at 254 E. Fulton St.
Celebrating their year abroad in America are, from left, Natale Aurtenetxe, Elisabeta Karlin, Hang Thi Minh Ha, Triet Vu, Yuka Nagai and Ayaka Kawasaki.
In his year of study at Wyoming High School, Triet Vu learned a lot of things about America and its education system that were much different from his home in Vietnam: the easier curriculum, the pervasive technology, the intensely controversial election. But what he valued most? His fellow students.
“I really like the people,” said Triet, a senior. “It’s so nice. I can just say hi to a random person, have small talk and we’ll be friends. I can feel like I’m getting more sociable and mature.”
Triet is one of 57 students who attended Kent County schools this year through the Educatius Group, a foreign-student exchange program operating in more than 230 U.S. high schools. It also works with some 120 universities to help students like Triet access higher education here; he has been accepted by Grand Valley State University to study nursing next year.
Ayaka Kawasaki, left from Japan, and Hang The Minh Ha and Triet Vu, of Vietnam, were impressed by how engage Americans were in the election.
The foreign-exchange experience has enriched the lives of students and their host families for generations, thanks to a variety of agencies. Boston-based Educatius has provided that experience for students from more than 50 countries in the past 10 years, an increasing number of them in West Michigan. With an office in Grand Rapids, it has grown from 39 students attending area schools in 2014 to 92 this year.
School News Network invited a half-dozen Educatius students to come together in mid-April and compare notes on their school year, which just happened to coincide with one of the most divisive presidential elections in American history. Here they weigh in on that and other, less controversial topics.
What Was Weird?
“I’m really surprised by how much you guys eat fast food,” said Triet, who as he said has become very sociable. “We had a lot of pizza, like, a LOT of pizza.”
For Elisabeta Karlin of Wiesbaden, Germany, who goes by Lisa, it was what she called “spray cheese,” better known here as Cheez Whiz. “I haven’t tried it, but I thought it was weird,” said Lisa, who attends the Rockford Freshman Center.
Ayaka Kawasaki, a junior at Wyoming High School, thought it was weird that students eat in the classroom, something never done at her school in Tokyo.
“We don’t use so many cars as you,” said Natale Aurtenetxe, a sophomore at Rockford High School. “We use more public transport” back home in Bilbao, Spain.
For Yuka Nagai, a sophomore at Catholic Central, it was weird not having the steering wheel on the right side, as in Japan. But it was much easier to get to school than in Tokyo, where it took her 30 minutes by bike, 30 minutes by train and 30 minutes walking – yes, that’s 90 minutes total.
Triet Vu
What Was Hard?
Lisa and Natale were both thrown by how often classes change. Back home they spent most of the school day with the same students.
“I like that you switch and can meet new people,” said Lisa, whereas always being with the same group, “You get annoyed with some people.”
Just physically changing classes at 1,800-student Rockford High was a challenge, added Natale: “It’s like if your locker’s downstairs and you need to go upstairs, it’s really difficult. There’s a lot of people.”
Although he found his studies “pretty easy,” Triet also found the constant class changes at Wyoming High disconcerting. “Teachers ask us to pair up and I’m like, ‘Oh crap, I don’t know anyone!’”
Yuka was taken aback by how much American students discuss topics with their teachers, so unlike the sit-quietly-and-take-notes norm of Japanese students. “If I could speak English more, I’d prefer the American style,” she said.
Hang The Minh Ha
Hang Thi Minh Ha was unnerved by having to give class presentations at Wyoming, which was way out of her comfort zone compared to students’ passive routine in Vietnam. “I was so scared,” Hang said. “I tried my best. It was good for me.”
What Did You Most Appreciate?
“The teachers were really nice to you and really helpful,” Lisa piped up immediately.
For Yuka, it was the ready availability of technology, whether working from an iPad, emailing a teacher or using Google Translate. “In Japan, we have to carry a bunch of textbooks every single day,” she said. “I thought my back was going to be broken.”
For Hang, it was being able to know more people and ask teachers for help after school. That’s not easy in Vietnam, where she said she attended school six days a week until 5:30 p.m., and sometimes evenings if she needed more help.
Ayaka appreciated the diversity of students in Wyoming. “Everybody’s different,” she said. “I like that. Japan’s so boring. Everyone’s the same.”
And What about That Election?
To a person, the students were impressed with how intensely engaged the public was in the showdown between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.
“It’s crazy how you guys have all different opinions,” Triet marveled. “American people kind of put me to shame. I know literally nothing about Vietnamese politics. We just can’t have opinions.” On the other hand, he saw here “so much protesting and so much hate. I don’t like that.”
Lisa was also fascinated by Americans’ “strongly different opinions of things. In Germany, you don’t have such a strong opinion about politics.” However, she also sometimes found the election “kind of scary,” like when she heard of people beating each other up.
Hang went to the polling place with her host father, Eddie Tauler, and was impressed. “I saw how Americans care about their government and their president. They have freedom to speak about what they think.” In Vietnam, she added, “You have to be careful what you say.”
“In Japan, I never saw government as interesting,” Ayaka said. Yuka agreed, adding, “I was so impressed that even younger people (in America) have interest in their government and politics.”
What Was Most Special?
All agreed it was the people – new friends at school and at home, with their host families.
Lisa traveled with her host parents, Shannon and Sara Moore, to see their daughter Michelle compete in Color Guard. She and Natale played on the Rockford tennis team, and Natale went camping with her host family, Matt and Karyll Russell, and helped daughters Karys and Jocelyn with their Spanish Immersion studies.
Hang and Ayaka, who both stayed with Eddie and Jamie Tauler, laugh about eating Eddie’s macaroni and cheese – “The American food I will never forget,” Hang said.
And that’s definitely not all.
“It’s really tough on them to leave, and leave the friends they made,” said Laurie Ledesma, who hosted Yuka and helps coordinate Educatius locally.
Triet agreed. “Basically, friends is what makes the year really special.”
Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.
Kentwood native and graduate Kathleen M. Allen, an attorney with a long history of working with the disadvantaged and in family law, has been named the new chief executive officer (CEO) of Catholic Charities West Michigan (CCWM).
Allen, who has been serving as vice chair of the nonprofit human service agency’s board of directors, is currently a staff attorney for Legal Aid of Western Michigan in Grand Rapids and will begin her new duties on May 1. Pamela Cohn Hammer, CCWM’s chief operating officer, has been acting as interim president and CEO.
“I know Kathleen very well and know that she will bring the needed expertise and energy to the highly challenging job of leading this agency in the years ahead,” said CCWM Board Chair Juan Salazar.
Most Reverend David J. Walkowiak, bishop of the Diocese of Grand Rapids, welcomed Allen to the position. “Catholic Charities West Michigan is a vital organization which allows us to live out the call of Christ to care for the poor, clothe the needy, and feed the hungry throughout the 11 counties we serve,” he said. “I welcome Kathleen and look forward to partnering with her, the Catholic Charities Board of Directors, and staff to continue to serve the community in a compassionate way.”
Allen, who has a bachelor of arts degree from Michigan State University and a law degree from Valparaiso School of Law in Valparaiso, Ind. said: “My more than 20 years of practicing as a Legal Aid of Western Michigan attorney gave me the opportunity to serve, one on one, many area vulnerable poor and low income persons and families.”
Prior to beginning work at Legal Aid of Western Michigan in 1997, Allen was affiliated with three Grand Rapids law firms as a law clerk and associate. Former President and CEO Terry Walsh left the agency in July 2016.
Are you over 50 and back in the job market for the first time in years? Do you think your age will make it harder to find a new job?
It’s true; hiring managers can make generalizations about mature job seekers. They may worry that you are not up to speed with the latest technology. They might also assume you are overqualified and will demand a higher salary.
There are ways to overcome these barriers. Here are five tips to help you get back in the workforce:
Consider training to update your skills. Is there new technology used in your line of work? Would you like to break into a new field? Use this time to get the training you need to land your next job.
Refresh your resume. To prevent broadcasting your age, don’t include graduation dates or experience dating more than 10-15 years. Focus only on skills that relate to the job you are applying for.
Stay up-to-date with technology. You will need to be comfortable searching the web for jobs and applying online. A strong LinkedIn profile can show potential employers you are comfortable with technology.
Network. Connect with friends, former colleagues and supervisors first. Let them know you are looking for a new position and ask them for advice and referrals.
Highlight your strengths. Older employees can bring a high level of professionalism, strong problem-solving skills and emotional intelligence to a position. This can make you a valuable member of any team.
Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.
