Category Archives: 3-bottom

Kentwood 50: City recognizes establishments that have been part of the community for 50 years or more

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Mayor Stephen Kepley with the founder of Kentwood Plumbing and Heating John VanderWeide and his family.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

It was Bill Hoeneveld , the owner of the former Avon Hotel, who recommended to John VanderWeide that he might want to snap up the name Kentwood Plumbing and Heating.

 

“I was doing plumbing work for Avon Hotel at the time,” VanderWeide said. “It was 1967 and the city had just incorporated. Bill was like you might want to grab the name before someone else does.”

 

He did and just a month after the city had its first meeting in February, Kentwood Heating and Plumbing was born.

 

Kentwood 50 breakfast honoring local establishments who have been in the city since its incorporation in 1967.

Almost fifty years from its start, VanderWeide, along with several other business owners and leaders representing around 23 Kentwood companies were recognized at a 50th anniversary breakfast Thursday morning at the  KDL Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Library. The breakfast honored local establishments who have been in business since the city incorporated in 1967.

 

“When you succeed, we all succeed,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley, who added that the city never wants to be a hindrance to business growth, but is here to work with its businesses. “I’m an engineer by trade and so I enjoy solving problems. If you see one or feel you have one, please contact me and we’ll sit down and work on it together.”

 

The 23 businesses that were recognized at the breakfast include Advance Packaging Corporation; Animal Hospital of Kentwood; Born Clinic, PC; Casa Via Motel; Christian Schools International; Consumers Energy; DTE Energy; Henry A. Fox Sales, Inc.; JC Penney Corporation; Kamminga and Roedvoets, Inc.; Kentwood Plumbing and Heating; Kentwood Fun Spot; Knoll, Inc.; Penning Plumbing; Plastic MoldTechnologies; Sears Roebuck & Co.; Siegel Jewelers; Spencer Gifts; Tubergen Saw & Cutter; Turner Industries; Velting Contractors; Woodland Shopping Center; and Zales Jewelry.

 

“It is an awesome thing you have done here,” said Bob O’Callaghan, president and CEO of Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce, which along with the Kentwood Economic Development Corporation, sponsored the breakfast. “I just want to say thank you for staying in Kentwood and for helping to make the city what it is today.”

 

Each business received a special 50th anniversary clock statute featuring the anniversary logo. As part of its Kentwood 50 coverage, WKTV will be featuring each business on its news website, now.wktv.org, during the next several months.

 

 

“This is really an honor to be able to see some of the faces who helped shape this area,” said Joey Jacobson, a long time resident to the area who recently started working at Spencer Gifts, located in Woodland Mall. “To be able to start my career by being at this 50th anniversary event is a real honor and a cool transition as one generation starts to take over for the next.”

 

Spencer Gifts Store Manager Megan LaClair and Assistant Store Manager Joey Jacobson.

Specner Gifts Store Manager Megan LaClair said many people do not realize the company has such a long history. Spencer Gifts started in 1947 in Easton, Penn. Its first location in Grand Rapids was at the North Kent Mall and it moved to Woodland Mall shortly after the mall opened.

 

“We have played musical store fronts at the mall, but have been then since its inception,” LaClair said, adding that she has only been with the company for four years and was pleasantly surprised to learn of Spencer Gifts history with the city and honored to receive the award for the store.

GVSU Wesorick Center, KCAD partner to host artist for lecture, exhibition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Health, , ,


 

 

By Michele Coffill

Grand Valley State University

 

Nationally recognized artist Ted Meyer believes in the power of art to heal both physical and emotional scars.

 

Through a collaboration between The Bonnie Wesorick Center for Health Care Transformation at Grand Valley State University and Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD), Meyer will visit West Michigan to discuss his journey and share stories of the patients he has chronicled on canvas.

 

He will present a lecture at Grand Valley in conjunction with an exhibit of his artwork at KCAD. Details of these events, which are free and open to the public, are below.

 

• “Art and Healing,” a collaborative exhibition between KCAD students and Meyer will run March 21 – April 8 at KCAD’s Helen Miller Kendall Gallery, 17 Fountain St. NW. More information at www.kcad.edu/events/healing-through-art/.

 

• “Scarred for Life: Healing Through Art,” the Distinguished Wesorick Lectureship, sponsored by the Wesorick Center, is Tuesday, March 28, from 1-2 p.m. at the DeVos Center, Loosemore Auditorium, on the GVSU Pew Grand Rapids Campus. RSVP online at www.gvsu.edu/wesorick/.

 

• Meyer will give an informal presentation on March 28 from 5-6 p.m. at the Mary Idema Pew Library on GVSU’s Allendale Campus. This event is sponsored by several Grand Valley departments and colleges.

 

Meyer will discuss his project, “Scarred for Life: Monoprints of Human Scars,” which highlights the courage of people who have been in medical crises or accidents through artwork. Evelyn Clingerman, executive director of the Wesorick Center, said research shows that engaging with art has positive health and spiritual benefits.

 

“In the Wesorick Center we role-model and teach others how to create places where people can thrive, not simply survive, and how to apply a health care paradigm that is more than fixing a scar or a body part,” Clingerman said. The Wesorick Center is an endowed center promoting interprofessional collaboration through the Kirkhof College of Nursing.

 

Sarah Joseph, KCAD director of exhibitions, said she is proud to collaborate with the Wesorick Center and Grand Valley for Meyer’s exhibition.

 

“Ted’s work is a powerful reminder of how integral art is to the human experience,” Joseph said. “We look forward to seeing the community enlivened and inspired by Ted’s work and mission.”

 

Meyer is the current artist-in-residence at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine. His artwork has been displayed internationally at museums, hospitals and galleries. Learn more about Meyer at www.tedmeyer.com.

Cat of the week: Hero

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By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing

Each week WKTV features an adoptable cat from Crash’s Landing or Big Sid’s Sanctuary. Both cat rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Petrovich, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).

In June of 2013, Dr. Jen received a very nice email request from an employee at a Michigan shelter in regards to transferring over a Feline Leukemia positive boy who was stuck in a cage—with limited adoption opportunities. Since their shelter did not have a program for cats with FELV (most do not) and he was not able to roam much due to lack of space, he was primarily confined to one spot. The shelter was able to house him temporarily with a positive kitten, so Hero (who was born in late 2013) had a buddy to snuggle and cuddle with.

Since we focus on cats older than six months of age, Dr. Jen gladly accepted this striking, stunning tabby fella into our program at Big Sid’s. So on July 7th we welcomed this long and lanky, MARVELOUS manx into our free-roaming, two level facility after a work-up was performed at the clinic—and Dr. Jen got to bond and fall hopelessly in love with him. I mean those ear tips and tufts alone are enough to knock your socks off, but when you couple that with those piercing green eyes… it’s all over!

Hero is probably one of THE HAPPIEST CATS we currently have at our sanctuary! He could not wait to be released from our intake suite (we had to speed up the process a wee bit to accommodate his eagerness) so he could meet the rest of the residents and hang out with all of the volunteers. Instant-presto nice guy Hero impressed everyone with how cordial and outgoing he was from the moment he padded paw into our place. Our cat care director went so far as to say that he was one of the nicest cats we have EVER had at Sid’s—and that is saying A LOT. She says he thrives on chatting with you and following you around; no matter what you are doing or where you are, jubilant, overjoyed Hero is there with a smile plastered on his face (he sports a very winning grin).

It is a crying shame that our handsome Hero contracted the virus because it does limit his chances realistically of being adopted. He is too social and has formed such a strong kinship with the other cats that he absolutely has to have another kitty to play with, and he needs a bustling household that can energize and entertain him. It can be a tall order to fill when asking someone to take a chance on a Feline Leukemia positive kitty, but Hero has SO MUCH TO OFFER—virus be damned! He is most definitely worth looking into what it requires to take on a positive kitty, so if you are interested in finding out more about Hero and FELV, please contact Dr. Jen directly.

MORE ABOUT HERO

  • Felv+
  • House trained
  • Spayed/Neutered
  • Current on vaccinations

Get the facts about Feline Leukemia here.

Learn about our adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

Interested in volunteering at one of the cat shelters? Email volunteer@crashslanding.org.

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.

Employment Expertise: The thank-you note — a job seeker’s secret weapon

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By West Michigan Works!

 

You submitted your resume, got an interview and left the interview feeling great. Now, it’s time to relax. Job searching is tough work! Before you celebrate, there’s one last step to your job search: A thank-you note.

 

One out of three employers think less of a candidate who doesn’t send a thank-you note. One in 10 wouldn’t hire someone if they don’t send a thank-you note, according to Career Builder.
Here are some tips to help you write a great thank-you note:

  • Keep it short, professional and sincere.
  • Send the note within 24 hours of your interview. Hiring managers are busy. If they receive your note a day or two after your interview, it shows them you are organized. And, it helps them remember you as they make hiring decisions.
  • A hand-written note is best. The average hiring manager receives 100+ emails a day. Make your thank-you note stand out by sending it through the postal service instead of their clogged inbox.
  • Choose a thank-you note that is simple and professional. Avoid cartoons, silly sayings and bright colors.
  • Use the three sentence rule:
    1. Thank them for the interview. “Thank you for taking the time to interview me yesterday.”
    2. Add something personal from your interview. Reference a specific conversation or a question they asked. Or, talk about something you liked from the interview. “I really enjoyed hearing more about your company culture.”
    3. Repeat your interest in the job. Remind them you’ll be a great addition to their organization. “I look forward to working with you in the future. My background will help [name of organization] continue to grow.”
  • Don’t forget to add “Dear [their name]” and the beginning, and “Sincerely, [your name]” at the end.

 

Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.

School News Network: A strong, clear message

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , , ,
Aa’Naja Miller created a presentation about stuttering for her class.

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

Aa’Naja Miller knows what it’s like to be unable to get her words out right, but when she stood in front of her classmates to talk about stuttering her voice was strong and clear.

 

The North Godwin Elementary School fourth-grader recently delivered a presentation, “My Experience with Stuttering” to her class. She has struggled with a speech disorder her whole life, and said children often tease her because of it.

 

“I stutter,” she said. “I can’t help it.”

 

There was no teasing that day. Instead, students listened in awe. “She looked like a teacher up there,” said classmate Donnie VanHorn. “She was so brave.”

 

Aa’Naja and North Godwin speech pathologist Sarah Toering created the presentation to give students a better understanding of stuttering. Toering also wanted to challenge Aa’Naja to speak in front of her peers.

 

“The purpose for me doing this presentation is for kids to know that I stutter, and that you don’t have to rush me because I know I do have to take my time,” she said. “I’m trying, but it just doesn’t come out right.”

 

She explained what a speech pathologist is, and how Toering has helped her learn strategies to overcome stuttering. She told students that others who have overcome stuttering include Vice President Joe Biden, NFL player Darren Sproles, actress Emily Blunt and late actress Marilyn Monroe.

 

According to The Stuttering Foundation, roughly three million Americans stutter. Approximately five percent of all children go through a period of stuttering that lasts six months or more. Three-quarters of those will recover by late childhood, leaving about one percent with a long-term stutter. The best prevention tool is early intervention.

 

Aa’Naja Miller spoke of her experience with stuttering

Aa’Naja included an interactive activity in her presentation, inviting classmates to practice stuttering with partners. She informed them of different types of stutters:

 

  • repetitions, which means repeating a word like “Do, do do you like pizza?”
  • blocks, which means getting stuck on a letter, like “D-d-do you like pizza?”
  • prolongations, which means holding a sound, like “IIIII like pizza!”
  • interjections, which means adding words, like “Um, do you, um, like pizza?”

 

Aa’Naja also introduced strategies she uses to stop stuttering, which include talking slowly, stretching out her words, taking a deep breath before she speaks and moving her mouth and tongue lightly while talking. She often uses her strategies automatically now, without having to think about them.

 

Classmate Donnie said “I learned to stick up for people who have stuttering problems and don’t make fun of them.”

 

Teacher Lisa Koeman said she had tears in her eyes during Aa’Naja’s presentation. Hearing her speak to her classmates, confidently and knowledgeably was inspiring.

 

“Aa’Naja didn’t stutter once,” Koeman said. “It was amazing. It was perfect. She acted like she was up on stage and has done this 100 times before. It was just breathtaking.”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Saugatuck Center for the Arts hosts an evening of cool jazz

3-bottom, Entertainment, , ,
Tania Chantzi

By Angela Peavey

Saugatuck Center for the Arts

 

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts features international singer Tania Chantzi for a “Hot Evening of Cool Jazz” Saturday, March 25, from 8 – 10 p.m. Hosted by Leslie and Stelios Dokianakis, guests will mingle, enjoy a drink, and experience  the smooth sounds of jazz classics and American Songbook favorites performed by Chantzi and her quartet.

 

Tickets for the event are $50/person and are in support of the SCA’s “Growing Young Artists” program for K-8thgrade migrant students. Space is limited; call 269-857-2399 or sc4a.org to reserve your tickets.

 

Native of Greece, Chantzi has performed with the bands Jazzin’ Around, Da Band, and Dear Rene. She is currently studying Jazz Voice at Hope College. Her quartet for the evening is an all-star lineup of West Michigan instrumentalists: Rufus Ferguson (piano), Jeff Beavan (bass guitar), Jim Cooper (vibraphone), and Steven Perry (drums).

 

“We are very excited about this event,” said Kristin Armstrong, SCA Executive Director. “We’re transforming the lobby into a club setting for the evening. This is the only opportunity to experience this group – it’s going to be a wonderfully intimate night of live music with these very talented musicians.”

 

Armstrong noted that proceeds from the evening will support the SCA’s “Growing Young Artists” (GYA) program which gives pre-K through 8th-grade migrant students the opportunity to participate in a two-week project based learning intensive. Taught in Fennville and South Haven schools, GYA supplements the students’ math, science, and language classes through arts-infused project based learning. As a result, the students learn important soft skills like teamwork, collaboration, problem-solving, and empathy.

 

“Leslie and Stelios are deeply supportive of Growing Young Artists and our children’s programs. This special event was their brainchild – a way to introduce friends to the SCA and our programming through an evening of great music.” Armstrong said only a few tickets remain for the event; they can be purchased online or by calling the SCA.

 

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts is located at 400 Culver St., Saugatuck.

School News Network: District faces deficit, hopes to maintain staffing

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, , , ,
Superintendent Thomas Reeder

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

On May 2, voters in the Kent ISD region will be asked to approve a 0.9 mill tax for local school districts, generating $211 per student to maintain programs, improve services and meet other needs. School News Network is offering information on what the millage means for each of the 20 districts in the Kent ISD. Today we focus on Wyoming Public Schools. SNN spoke with Superintendent Thomas Reeder

 

How much revenue would your district gain from the millage in the first year?

 

It depends on student enrollment changes, but in excess of $900,000.

 

What would you spend that increased revenue on, and how would this help your students?
“Our focus will be to maintain or improve upon our current staffing related to classroom instruction,” Reeder said, noting that the amount of revenue that would go toward staffing would depend on state funding and whether the district faces a budget crunch. Gov. Snyder has proposed a 1.3 percent increase in the state per-student aid budget for schools.

 

Other goals are increasing the number of extended-day and summer programs for all students, “from our most at-risk to our most gifted,” with more classes and learning opportunities. Ideas are for computer, band and theater programming.

 

A Parkview Elementary student picks out a book at his reading level. The district hopes to give every student more learning opportunities with the enhancement millage. (Photo courtesy of School News Network)

The district is also looking at improving technology support and resources at all levels, as well as increasing safety and security at all sites with improved surveillance equipment, Reeder said. Purchasing a bus each year to keep the fleet current is another goal.

 

The district also would like to add more staff members to work with students experiencing mental-health challenges.

 

If the millage were to fail, what changes or cuts would you have to make next school year?
“We will continue to make reductions as necessary, attempting to stay as far away from the classroom as possible, but will be unable to add any programming or other resources to the current model,” Reeder said. “The impact depends very much on what decisions are made at the state level related to funding.”

 

The district faces a projected $910,000 deficit in next year’s budget, depending on enrollment, and has a fund balance of about 10 percent. The recommended fund balance for Michigan schools is 15 to 20 percent, according to the Michigan School Business Officials.

 

What objections have you heard, if any, from your community, and what is your response?
Reeder said he has not yet heard any objections. He plans to host two community meetings in April to discuss the enhancement millage and a Wyoming Public Schools November bond request that would not raise property taxes.

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Game on:WKTV’s featured games for March 20-25

3-bottom, Sports, , , , , , ,

This week in WKTV’s featured high school sports games are:

 

Tuesday, March 21, the quest for a basketball state championship is underway as Tri-Unity Christian will face Buckley.

Tri-Unity Christian faces Burkley tonight.

 

Tri-Unity enters the contest with a 16-8 record while Buckley remains undefeated with a 24-0 record. The game will be at Tri-Unity Christian, 2100 44th St. SW.  where they will have the home court advantage and the winner of this game will advance to play at Michigan State in the semi-finals in hopes of winning a state championship.

 

Wednesday, March 22, both of Wyoming’s baseball and softball teams will be opening their season with an away game at Lowell. The boys will play at 4 tp.m. and the girls will play at 4:15 p.m.

 

Thursday, March 23, Wyoming will take on Grand Rapids Covenant Christian for a baseball game, while the softball team of Wyoming will play against Zeeland West. Both games will be at Wyoming and played 4:15 p.m.

 

Friday March 24, South Christian will have its season opener at Holland Christian in a boys lacrosse game at 6 p.m.

 

Saturday, March 25, Grand Rapids Christian will play against East Kentwood’s baseball team at Davenport University at 6 p.m.

 

WKTV videos and broadcasts several games each week during high school sports season.

 

For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action in January, see now.wktv.org/sports/

 

DVDs of each game are also available for purchase at $20 including shipping. For more information, visit WKTV.org

Grandson of Cesar Chavez to give keynote at GVSU

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Andrés Chavéz

By Leah Twilley

Grand Valley State University

 

A presentation by Andrés Chavéz, grandson of labor leader and civil rights activist César E. Chávez, will kick off Grand Valley State University’s annual César Chávez Celebration.

 

His presentation, “Latinos Millennials to be the Voice of Change,” will take place March 24 at 11 a.m. in the Grand River Room, Kirkhof Center. A meet and greet reception will follow.

 

Andrés was raised during the farm worker movement, which was founded by his grandfather. He has participated in social justice activities and demonstrations, including ones for immigration reform. He is currently attending California State University, Bakersfield, where he is majoring in public policy and administration.

 

Additional events, which are free and open to the public, are highlighted below. For more information, visit www.gvsu.edu/oma.

 

• LSAU Dinner and Dance, “Feria De Las Flores,” March 24, 8 p.m., Grand River Room, Kirkhof Center: The Latino Student Union will host a night of free food and open dance.

• “Contemporary Mexican Cinema: Romantic Comedies, Democracy, Border Crossing and Crisis of National Identities,” March 30, 4-5 p.m., room 2215, Kirkhof Center. Ignacio Sánchez Prado, professor of Spanish, Latin American Studies and Film and Media Studies at Washington University, will give a presentation on Mexican cinema.

• Grand Rapids Latin American Film Festival, March 31-April 2, Wealthy Street Theatre, Grand Rapids: Films are free to attend and will be presented with English subtitles. Visit www.grlaff.org for more information.

 

March 31 is César Chávez Day, the federal holiday that celebrates the legacy of Chavez, who co-founded the National Farm Workers Association in 1962.

 

The celebration is organized by Grand Valley’s Office of Multicultural Affairs and WGVU Public Media, with support from numerous campus departments.

Youth will be served as Joey Alexander visits St. Cecilia jazz series

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Joey Alexander will be bringing music from his second recording to the stage at St. Cecilia Music Center this week. (Supplied)
By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

 

Jazz piano wonderkind Joey Alexander is probably glad writers and reviewers are starting to pay less attention to his being only 13 years old and more attention to his being a suburb piano player with a growing reputation as a modern interpreter of jazz classics.

 

Joey Alexander (Supplied)

With the release of his second recording, “Countdown”, in late 2016, Alexander moves beyond being a Grammy sensation — his early 2016 Grammy appearance, following two nominations for his debut 2015 recording, “My Favorite Things” was a crowd favorite —   and moves into the forefront of rising jazz musicians.

 

Alexander, leading a classic trio, will bring his youthful experiences, and some “big boy’ jazz, to the St. Cecilia Music Center Thursday, March 23, for a 7:30 p.m. concert. Tickets are available.

 

“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” Alexander said in supplied material. “But I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live.”

 

Alexander was the youngest jazz artist to have ever been nominated for a Grammy award, garnered two Grammy Award nominations in 2015 including “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance on the album of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”.

 

On “Countdown”, Alexander continues his development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. The album contains three Alexander originals among the nine tracks, and and covers of compositions by Coltrane, Chaplin, Hancock, Monk, Strayhorn and Wynton Marsalis. (And featured on the album is outstanding drummer Ulysses Owens, Jr.)

 

“Joey Alexander will leave you spellbound and forever changed in your perception of what is possible through the power of music,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia executive director, said in supplied material.

 

Oh, and he just happens to be 13 years old.

 

There will also be a pre-concert reception offered with wine and hors d’oeuvres for $15 per person, as well as a post-concert “Meet-the-artist” reception open to all ticket-holders with the opportunity to meet Alexander and obtain signed CDs of him releases.

 

For more information visit scmc-online.org.

 

School News Network: Habla Español? Your community needs you

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,
Interpreter and translator Leonicia Rubio, left, talks with Alma Arvizu at the Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center.

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

Alma Arvizu sat down with interpreter and translator Leonicia Rubio at the Godfrey-Lee Early Childhood Center to talk about conferences and kindergarten next school year for her son, Eric, now a preschooler.

 

Arvizu, like many district parents, knows who to turn to for help: Rubio and the other bilingual interpreters.

 

“It helps me,” said Arvizu, an immigrant from Mexico, with Rubio translating. “I understand very little English. I can’t speak it. With Leonicia, I have very good communication with the teachers. I think a lot of parents that don’t speak English go to the interpreters.”

 

Needs for interpretation and translation are even greater than Rubio and the district’s other translators and interpreters can fill, so administrators are turning to a new volunteer site, ServeGR.com, for help.

 

The site was started by Grand Rapids-based Westminster Presbyterian Church, where Carol Lautenbach, assistant superintendent of teaching, learning and accountability, attends. It links potential volunteers with opportunities based on their strengths, passions and schedules to find the best fit both for volunteers and those who need them.

 

ServeGR site coordinator Heather Colletto said the goal is to fill long-term needs.

 

“What’s so great about the Godfrey-Lee opportunity is that for someone who has Spanish-speaking skills to put to use on behalf of the community, it’s a great lightbulb moment.”

 

For a school district, it’s a nice way to make outside connections, Lautenbach said. As of early March, five people had already expressed interest in serving as bilingual volunteers, which requires a background check. An orientation will be set in the near future.

 

Not only will it benefit the district to have more volunteers, Lautenbach said, but it will build awareness about Godfrey-Lee.

 

“We want to remove as many barriers as we can for people to come in and be involved in our schools. We are also hoping to show them what great schools we are. It’s good for us to showcase the good things we are doing and show that we are welcoming to everyone.”

 

Join an Awesome Team

 

Carol Lautenbach

Many ECC parents need help with communication on busy mornings and at dismissal time, Rubio said. There are often parents waiting for assistance. “It would be really nice to have someone else there to help them.”

 

Interpreters and translators Rubio; Susana Chapa, who works at Godfrey Elementary School; and community liaison Jaime Ramirez, who works at the Administration Building, serve as connection points for parents about their children’s education. They rely a lot on one another to fill the communication needs in the Spanish-speaking community.

 

“We have an awesome team right here,” said Ramirez.

 

In the district, 75 percent of families are Hispanic, and 40 percent of students are English-language learners. Rubio, Chapa and Rodriguez write notes and newsletters, make phone calls, and translate at conferences and other parent meetings. They help make sure parents understand complicated terminology on forms, and plan and promote events like Las Posadas, held in December.

 

Parents have varying levels of English, and basic skills aren’t always enough for parents to receive the information they need, Lautenbach said, especially when it is critical. It’s important they can communicate comfortably.

 

“If it’s an emotional issue, a child who’s not going to graduate on time, a medical issue, a fight that’s happened, we all want to default to what’s most comfortable for us,” she said, “even if we are fairly fluent in another language.”

 

She wants parents to receive the right information and provide as much input as possible. “We want to make sure we are providing opportunities for parents to have a full voice.”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

 

Public Museum Beer Explorers, Brewery Vivant host ‘Beer The Change’

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The Grand Rapids Public Museum is partnering with Brewery Vivant to offer a special Beer Explorers class. (Supplied)

By The Grand Rapids Public Museum

 

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is partnering with Brewery Vivant to offer a special Beer Explorers class on Thursday, March 23, where participants will learn about the impact beer brewing has on the environment and what can be done to make it more Earth-friendly, while enjoying a special beer tasting.

 

The class will be led by Brewery Vivant’s owner and sustainability director Kris Spaulding, and “Wandering Monk” and certified cicerone Ryan Engemann.

 

The class begins at 6:30 p.m. and will be held on the first floor in the museum’s Galleria. Admission to class includes three beer samples, as well as access to the museum’s first two floors. A cash bar will also be available.

 

Tickets for the event are $8 for members and $18 for non-members. Participants must be 21 and older. Tickets can be purchased at grpm.org

 

This Beer Explorers program will be the first of three with Brewery Vivant. On April 19, join the GRPM and Brewery Vivant for Pub Science at Brewery Vivant. Pub Science is free for participants age 21 and older. Registration is required. Please visit grpm.org/PubScience to register today. On May 11, the third class in the series will teaching participants about how to combine beer with cheeses. Tickets will go on sale in March for the May class.

 

Brewery Vivant is located in the East Hills neighborhood of Grand Rapids, in a renovated funeral chapel built in the early 1900s. It is the first commercial brewery in the nation to receive Silver LEED Certification, additionally they are 100 percent renewable powered, a silver-level Bicycle Friendly Business, and are a certified B Corporation.

 

Mason Street Warehouse summer line-up dazzles to celebrate SCA’s 15th Anniversary

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment

Mason Street Warehouse housed at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (SCA) is celebrating its 15th Anniversary, bringing a dazzling lineup to the stage.  The lakeshore’s only professional Equity theatre, Mason Street is producing the Michigan premiere of “Memphis The Musical:” the hilarious comedy “Fully Committed;” and the fresh, modern musical comedy “It Shoulda Been You.”

 

Mason Street Warehouse (MSW) performances are at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck. Season and individual tickets are now on sale at sc4a.org or 269-857-2399. 

 


MSW Founder and Artistic Director Kurt Stamm held auditions in New York City, Chicago, and various Michigan locations – Mason Street received more than 3,400 submissions in NYC alone this year.  Stamm says the strength of Mason Street’s brand means he’s bringing outstanding professional talent back to West Michigan this summer.

 

“Memphis is a huge song and dance show and we’ll be putting up the Michigan premiere. We had truly phenomenal talent audition for the production as well as for ‘Fully Committed’ and ‘It Shoulda Been You,’” Stamm said.  

 


“Memphis: The Musical” is the largest production Mason Street has produced in its 15-year history and was a very deliberate choice, Stamm said. “We had a tremendously strong season last summer and this year we’re celebrating our 15th anniversary. We’re pulling out all the stops and giving the community a seriously dazzling lineup!”

 


Stamm noted that this summer’s shows will feature professional actors making their Mason Street debuts as well as MSW “alumni.”  “We’re still nailing down our contracts, but I’m very excited about the possibility of welcoming back several fabulous actors who have been on the Mason Street stage before. It’s always wonderful to bring these professionals back to West Michigan.”


Individual and season tickets are now on sale, and season tickets to see all three shows can be purchased at a great discount. Mason Street also offers senior, student, and group discounts. Call the box office for more information: 269-857-2399

‘Walk for Warmth’ utility assistance program fundraiser surpasses goal

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By ACSET Community Action Agency

 

For 21 years, ACSET Community Action Agency (CAA) has hosted the Walk for Warmth in Kent County. The Walk for Warmth is a statewide effort to raise funds to help low-income households pay their utility bills and avoid shut-offs. ACSET CAA surpassed their goal this year by raising more than $20,000. All money raised at the Kent County event will stay in Kent County to assist families through CAA’s utility assistance program.

 

“The funds raised by the walk are critical as they allow us to serve more Kent County residents and reach vulnerable households that might not meet the criteria of some of our other programs,” said Susan Cervantes, Associate Director of ACSET CAA.

 

Walk for Warmth donations make it possible for more families to get the help they need. These families won’t have to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table.

 

Consumers Energy is a longtime supporter of Walk for Warmth events across the state. A large group of their employees gathered pledges and joined the Kent County walk again this year. Consumers Energy then matched all individual pledges that were received. Dan Malone, the company’s senior vice president of energy resources participated in the walk.

 

“The Grand Rapids walk was one of over 30 that we are participating in across Michigan, and I was happy to be a participant. I was encouraged by our strong employee support and those in the community who took time during their Saturday morning to help others,” Malone said.
This year’s event took place on Saturday, Feb. 11. The date was officially proclaimed Walk for Warmth Day 2017 by Grand Rapids Mayor, Rosalyn Bliss, and Kent County Commissioner, Carol Hennessy who both attended the event.

 

Saugatuck Center for the Arts Hosts “Taste of Telluride” Screening March 24

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By Angela Peavey

Saugatuck Center for the Arts

 

The acclaimed Telluride Film Festival is coming to West Michigan when the Saugatuck Center for the Arts presents a “Taste of Telluride” on Friday, March 24, at 7 p.m.  Reserved tickets for this special evening of film ($10/each; cash bar available) can be purchased at sc4a.org or 269-857-2399.

 

 

Hailed by Movie Maker Magazine as, “One of the Top 25 coolest film festivals in the world,” the SCA is presenting its “Taste of Telluride” screening as part of its special 15th Anniversary programming.

 

 

“The SCA is the only place in Michigan for people to experience films from Telluride,” said SCA Executive Director Kristin Armstrong. “We know West Michigan audiences love film; we’re really thrilled to bring this event to Saugatuck.”

 

 

Kitchen overseer Genghis Khan (aka Desert Dog) keeps an eye out for salami skins to dispose of and food pouches in need of a good licking. Photograph by Mary McIntyre

Armstrong said the SCA collaborated with the Telluride Film Festival to curate the films selected for its “Taste of Telluride” event. “Audiences are going to be blown away by these incredibly inspiring stories, including extreme sports and adventure, our environment, and foreign arts and culture.”

 

 

Films at the “Taste of Telluride” include “Angel Annihilates Alaska” (extreme skiing), “Ace and the Desert Dog” (backpacking and friendship), “When We Were Knights” (base jumping), “The Super Salmon” (environment), and “Mile 19” (marathoner & veteran Johnnie Jameson).

 

 

The Telluride Film Festival bills itself as a celebration of the best in film — past, present and future — from all around the world. Guest Directors have included luminaries like Salman Rushdie, Buck Henry, Laurie Anderson, Stephen Sondheim, and Peter Sellars. Telluride audiences were the first in the world to laugh with “Juno,” to observe “The Lives of Others,” to visit “Brokeback Mountain,” to learn the secret of “The Crying Game,” and to experience “Blue Velvet.”  As Roger Ebert said, Telluride is, “…like Cannes died and went to heaven.”

 

 

The SCA’s relationship with the Telluride Film Festival has grown over the past five years as the two organizations have collaborated via the SCA’s Children’s Film Festival. “Our film festival for young viewers began 15 years ago,” Armstrong said. “In 2014 we reached out to the Telluride Film Festival to see if we could bring their award-winning films for young viewers to our festival. They loved the idea of reaching students in West Michigan so they agreed – and we’ve been growing our relationship ever since.”

 

 

Thanks to support from sponsors, the SCA makes its Children’s Film Festival available to West Michigan schools cost free, even including “bus money” if schools cannot afford transportation funding. “We typically serve 1,500 K-12th grade students during a week of screenings at the SCA,” Armstrong said. “This year we’re excited to announce a new partnership that is expanding the festival’s outreach tremendously.”

 

 

The Children’s Film Festival, which runs March 20-24 for partner schools, is going “on the road” to the Allegan Public Schools Performing Art enter for a day.   As a result, an additional 1,100 students will experience the Festival, and in total more than 2,500 students from Allegan, Ottawa, Kent, and Van Buren Counties will participate in the 2017 Children’s Film Festival.

 

 

Armstrong notes that SCA Education and Exhibition coordinator Whitney Valentine has created post-festival resources for educators so students can continue to benefit from the film festival experience long after the screening.

 

 

The Children’s Film Festival is a vital part of the SCA’s three-pronged mission of education, entertainment, engagement, Armstrong said. “The Children’s Film Festival hits all three of our key focus areas. The topics matter, and the experience gets kids thinking and learning in a different way.”

 

 

Reserved tickets for the “Taste of Telluride” screening and additional information can be found online at sc4a.org.  

 

Government Matters: Week in review, March 13-17

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Politics, , , , ,

Stabenow, Peters, Kildee introduce resolution opposing nuclear waste storage site in Great Lakes Basin

By WKTV Contributor

U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI) and Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05) have introduced resolutions, in both the House and Senate, expressing opposition to construction of a nuclear waste repository less than a mile from Lake Huron in Ontario.

“The Canadian proposal … could cause significant, lasting damage to the Great Lakes and undermine the progress we have made cleaning up the water quality in the Great Lakes Basin,” said Senator Peters.

“President Trump and Secretary of State Tillerson should make every effort to prevent the Canadian government from moving forward with this proposal and work to find an alternative solution that does not jeopardize the health of the Great Lakes.

“Surely in the vast land mass that comprises Canada, there must be a better place to permanently store nuclear waste than on the shores of Lake Huron.”

Over 40 million people in Canada and the United States get their drinking water from the Great Lakes and the highly toxic waste could take tens of thousands of years to decompose to safe levels. Ontario Power Generation is currently seeking approval from the Canadian Ministry of Environment to build a deep geologic repository to permanently store 7 million cubic feet of low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste less than one mile from Lake Huron in Kincardine, Ontario.

Peters, Portman & Stabenow introduce bipartisan legislation to boost Great Lakes funding

Legislation would help modernize research capabilities, bring Great Lakes on par with ocean coasts

By WKTV Contributor

U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Rob Portman (R-OH) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) have introduced bipartisan legislation to spur Great Lakes funding and research efforts and help support effective fishery management decisions.

The Great Lakes Fishery Research Authorization (GLFRA) Act gives the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) the legislative authority to support the $7 billion Great Lakes sport and commercial fishery industry. Despite holding one-fifth of the world’s fresh water, the Great Lakes science program does not have the same funding authorization as science centers on saltwater coasts, and this legislation will close the resource gap between the Great Lakes Science Center and other fishery research centers across the country.

“Our Great Lakes and waterways are part of who we are and our way of life,” said Senator Stabenow, Co-Chair of the Great Lakes Task Force. “From water quality issues to invasive species, there are so many challenges facing our lakes and fisheries, which is why funding for cutting-edge research is so important.”

Peters statement on President Trump’s proposed budget

By Allison Green

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Ranking Member of the Federal Spending Oversight Subcommittee, released the following statement regarding President Trump’s proposed budget that dramatically cuts critical domestic programs:

Sen. Gary Peters

“President Trump’s proposed budget makes drastic cuts that will hit Michigan families and businesses in both urban and rural areas especially hard, including cuts to transportation services education, job training and programs that are essential for protecting the economic and environmental health of the Great Lakes, which provide drinking water to 40 million people and support Michigan’s multi-billion dollar shipping, fishing and agricultural industries.

“I am particularly disappointed that President Trump still has not put forward a comprehensive strategy to grow our manufacturing industry and create jobs. Instead, his budget proposal eliminates or slashes funding for critical programs that support the small businesses and manufacturers that are our country’s greatest job creators. Instead of gutting programs that Michigan families, seniors and businesses rely on, the President should focus on making smart investments to boost innovation and American manufacturing, strengthen our infrastructure and ensure our country remains economically competitive.

“As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, I believe it is important for us to have a strong and innovative military, but we must also invest in our people to maintain our nation’s competitive edge. Congress has a responsibility to use taxpayer dollars efficiently and effectively, and members of both parties must work together to reduce wasteful spending and help shrink the deficit, but this proposal does more harm than good.”

Senator Stabenow statement on President Trump’s budget request that completely eliminates Great Lakes funding

Sen. Debbie Stabenow

By Miranda Margowsky

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s fiscal year 2018 budget request, which completely eliminates funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative:

“It is outrageous that President Trump’s budget request completely eliminates funding to protect the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative has always received bipartisan support and continues to be absolutely critical to protecting our Great Lakes, including fishing, boating, hunting, and fighting invasive species. Our Great Lakes economy creates 1.5 million jobs and are part of our Michigan way of life.

“I will continue working across the aisle to not only stop cuts to Great Lakes funding but  also to other important initiatives that are important to Michigan families, manufacturers, farmers, and small businesses.”

School News Network: Wyoming High students take tough topics with police

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From left, Wyoming Public Safety Department Lt. Jim Maguffee, Sgt. Brian Look and Wyoming Public Schools Resource Officer Rory Allen talk to Wyoming High School students.

Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

It was a question teenage girls of color don’t often get to ask white police officers. “What do you think of the Black Lives Matter movement?” asked Wyoming High School junior Tracy Nunez-Telemin.

 

As part of a panel of police officers visiting high school students, City of Wyoming Lt. Jim Maguffee shared his thoughts.

 

Junior Tracy Nunez-Telemin asks officers for thoughts on the Black Lives Matter movement.

“First of all I want to say that black lives matter,” Maguffee said. “That’s an important tenet to get across.” He said he doesn’t agree with everything the movement stands for because he thinks it draws incorrect conclusions about policing. Still, he sees its positives.

 

“I vehemently feel that public discourse is part of what makes America great,” he stressed. “The fact that people can come together and form a movement and call it Black Lives Matter and march in the streets and demand to be heard, man, that’s what makes us so strong. That’s not common around the world. That’s a great thing.”

 

No Subject Off Limits

 

In a country where hot-button issues have become increasingly divisive, Wyoming High School students and police officers sat down in the media center to talk about a variety of issues. Police brutality, illegal immigration and diversity on the police force were all addressed by officers queried by students. They said they have sworn to protect everyone in the community, regardless of immigration status. “We are everybody’s police,” Maguffee said.

 

Junior Tony Joliffi asks officers about experiences making quick judgment calls

The purpose of the panel was for students and officers to learn from each other, teachers said. Discussion spanned a whole school day with several groups attending hour-long sessions. Panelists included Maguffee, Sgt. Brian Look, Wyoming Public Schools Resource Officer Rory Allen and Officer Pam Keen.

 

It was part of the junior class’ annual book study, in partnership with the Kent District Library’s KDL Reads program. Students read “All American Boys,” by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely, a novel about a fictional African-American teenager who is assaulted by a white police officer. The event is witnessed by a white classmate. The repercussions that follow divide a school, community and nation.

 

For the past three years, juniors have participated in KDL Reads, and compiled essays to create their own book based on themes from the book study. This year, juniors are writing about social justice. “All American Boys” authors are scheduled to visit March 27.

 

Creating Community Dialogue

 

Including a visit from police officers in the book study was a way to offer different perspectives in a humanizing way, said English teacher Joslyn O’Dell, adding students often have negative perceptions of police.

 

“Having actual police officers come in here to create a positive interaction with them will help them move forward,” O’Dell said. “It’s so important we have open dialogue.”

 

“We wanted to open up the communication between our students and our local police so they can start to see those perspectives,” added media specialist Melissa Schneider, who helps coordinate the annual book project. “It was a hard (topic) because it’s controversial.”

 

Raul Valdez inquires about diversity on the police force

Wyoming High School has a very diverse student body and addressing racially charged issues can be difficult, she said. “That’s what we wanted to teach them, (that) there are ways to have those difficult conversations that can be meaningful versus just attacking and assuming.”

 

About Black Lives Matter, Maguffee said he hopes a result of the movement is progress in working together. “I think it’s great that they exist to the point that we can have a good conversation about how to make things better,” he said.

 

Junior Raul Valdez asked about diversity represented on the City of Wyoming Police Department. The police force is made up of a majority of white males, though there are black, Latino, female and officers of other ethnicities, officers said.

 

It’s always a drive to match the diversity of the department with the community, Allen told students. “In reality, you guys are the community and when we talk about diversity, ideally you want the police department to look like the high school here, and you’ve got a pretty diverse school.”

 

‘You Guys are Doing it Right’

 

As school liaison officer, Allen said he has to respond to very few problems at the high school where 25 countries are represented in the student body. “You guys are doing it right… For the vast majority, everybody plays nice together… It speaks a lot to you guys. Old people like us could probably take a lesson from you guys.”

 

Junior Tony Joliffi said he appreciated the officers’ visit. “It was a good experience for not only me but everyone in here to hear from police officers,” he said, noting that it reaffirmed his view of police as community protectors. “It was relieving to know that the view I wanted to have of police officers was actually true.”

 

Maguffee said he it was important for him to attend. “I have an opportunity to come in and talk to these teenagers face to face, learn each other’s names and talk about this problem. Any chance we can do that, we’ve got to seize it, because that’s what’s going to fix things eventually,”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Kentwood 50 talent show gives out ‘Golden Tickets’ to finalists

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Going Local, Local Entertainment,
After an event at the City of Kentwood’s City Hall, the Kentwood 50’s Kentwood’s Got Talent contest now has 11 finalists for the August finals. (WKTV)

WKTV Staff
The field competing in the City of Kentwood’s Kentwood’s Got Talent event, a part of the city’s Kentwood 50 anniversary celebration, got a little smaller Wednesday as 11 finalists were given “Golden Tickets” and an invitation to the August finals.

 

WKTV was there filming the event, held in City Council chambers at City of Kentwood City Hall, and you can see the video here.

 

About 30 auditions — ranging from singing to dancing to comedy — were held prior to the deadline of Friday, March 3. The finals will be Aug. 11 at 7 p.m., at a community event outside at city hall.

 

For more information on Kentwood 50 celebrations, visit kentwood50.com.

 

Legacy Trust announces eighth annual competition for artists with disabilities

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Adult artists with disabilities have a chance to win $500 and have their artwork displayed in the Grand Rapids Art Museum and entered in ArtPrize 2017 – thanks to the Legacy Trust Award Collection.

 

Back for its eighth year, the Legacy Trust Award Collection is soliciting artwork from Michigan artists with disabilities for its popular mini-competition in advance of ArtPrize. Four winning artists will each receive $500 and sponsorship in ArtPrize, the radically open art competition, scheduled this year Sept. 20 – Oct. 8 in downtown Grand Rapids.

 

The statewide competition is open to all Michigan artists with disabilities and seeks paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, collages, mixed media and other works of art. Four winners will be chosen by popular vote, a panel of celebrity judges and the LTAC Advisory Committee.

 

Artists must register with LTAC by April 24 to be considered for the 2017 competition.

 

Sponsored by Grand Rapids-based investment advisory and wealth management firm Legacy Trust, LTAC will be held this year in the Grand Rapids Art Museum May 22-23. A private reception for all artists, judges and LTAC supporters will be held on the evening of Monday, May 22.

 

The public will have a chance to view and vote for its favorite entry May 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the GRAM, which is located in downtown Grand Rapids.

 

Winning artists will have their work displayed during ArtPrize at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids. Last year, 101 artists from around the state submitted artwork to LTAC, its seventh straight year of growth.

 

 

Winners of LTAC 2017 will be announced May 30. Along with having their artwork entered into ArtPrize, the winning artists will each receive a cash prize of $500. All entry fees and promotion expenses for ArtPrize will be paid by Legacy Trust, which – for the fourth year – has secured DeVos Place venue for the winning artists during ArtPrize.

 

Artists from all genres are invited to participate in the competition. All artists must submit an artist registration to Legacy Trust by April 24. All artwork must be completed and available for showing in Grand Rapids by 5 p.m. on April 28.

 

Following is a list of guidelines for submitting artwork:

  • All participating artists must be a resident of Michigan and at least 18 years of age by April 3.
  • All artwork must be original, attributable to the applicant and completed within three years prior to September 21, 2017.
  • All artwork is subject to the “Official Rules for Artists-ArtPrize,” which can be found at www.artprize.org.
  • The top four artists will retain ownership and all rights to their artwork, subject to the rules and restrictions of ArtPrize 2017. The artists agree to make themselves and their artwork available to LTAC and all partnering agencies and sponsors prior to and during ArtPrize for promotions and marketing efforts.
  • The top four artists who receive the award will be entered into ArtPrize 2017 as a Legacy Trust Collection Award winner.
  • LTAC artists agree that if their artwork wins any ArtPrize award, they will donate 25 percent of any award to create a special Legacy Trust Endowment Fund to continue arts programs for adults with disabilities in greater Grand Rapids.
  • Winning artists will be notified by Legacy Trust by May 30 and will be entered into ArtPrize.
  • There are no restrictions on artists who are not part of the Collection from entering ArtPrize on their own.

 

Artwork may be delivered by mail, UPS, FedEx or in person to Legacy Trust, 99 Monroe, Suite 600, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49503 by 5 p.m. on April 28. See the registration form for additional rules and details at http://ltacarts.org.

 

More information on LTAC is available at www.LTACArts.org. Join the conversation on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LegacyTrustAwardCollection and on Twitter with #LTAC.

Annual march honors legacy of Chavez

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , , , ,
Committee to Honor César E. Chávez Chairperson Lupe Ramos-Montigny

By Michele Coffill

Grand Valley State University

 

Leaders from Grand Valley State University will join hundreds of college and K-12 students, community leaders and advocates at the 17th Annual César E. Chávez Social Justice March on Thursday, March 16.

 

• Details: The march will begin at 11 a.m. at the Cook Center Library, 1100 Grandville Ave. SW.

 

The march will cover the length of César E. Chávez Boulevard, celebrating the work and legacy of Chávez, and end with a community gathering at 11:30 a.m. at Potter’s House Church, 811 Chicago Dr., SW.

 

Grand marshals are President Juan R. Olivarez, Aquinas College, and President Steven C. Ender, Grand Rapids Community College.

 

Lupe Ramos-Montigny, committee chair, said the program is dedicated to “A Day Without Immigrants.”

 

Proceeds from a luncheon later in the afternoon will benefit a scholarship at Grand Valley that honors Ramos-Montigny.

 

Details are posted on Facebook, search for the Committee to Honor César E. Chávez.

Caledonia resident receives 55-year service award from Pine Rest

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Caledonia resident Ruth Helmholdt-Davis recently received her 55-year service award at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. Helping her celebrate is her daughter Sallie Nyenhuis, right, who received her 5-year service award and her niece Joan Hibma who received her 25-year service award. (Photo courtesy Pine Rest)

By Colleen Cullison

Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services

 

Ruth Helmholdt-Davis recently received her 55-year service award from Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. Helmholdt-Davis came to Pine Rest right after her graduation from high school in 1959; she had just turned 17. She came from Lucas, a small farming community near McBain, Michigan. Helmholdt-Davis really actually has 57 years of service, but 55 years consecutively.

 

She entered the nursing program and began work at the Retreat Center with children. It was a natural fit for her since she was the oldest of six kids and had done a lot of babysitting.

 

Helmholdt-Davis graduated the nursing program in 1961. She was in a group of nurses grandfathered in as licensed practical nurses by the State of Michigan. In her years of service she held many positions; she has been a nurse in literally all areas of Pine Rest, both past and present. On completion of her nursing bachelor’s degree, she became a unit manager in Child & Adolescent. In the late 1990s, she left full time employment until 2004 when she returned full time as clinical service manager of the Child & Adolescent Unit.

 

In 2007, she became the director of clinical practice of Hospital Based Services and terminated full-time employment in 2008, but still maintains part-time work with Pine Rest. She works on-call as an intake co-coordinator. Helmholdt-Davis also works in the nursing program at Detroit Mercy Nursing School.

 

Helmholdt-Davis is married to Ron Davis. She has two sons and a daughter, 16 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Her daughter, Sallie Nyenhuis, just received her 5-year service award and her niece Joan Hibma received her 25-year service award at Pine Rest.

 

Helmholdt-Davis spends her winters in Florida and still has time for her many hobbies. She enjoys interior decorating, flower arranging, reading, golf, gardening and spending time outdoors. She also enjoys spending time with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

 

In Florida, she is currently teaching a Bible study on Nehemiah. She also volunteers at Manasota Care Net which is a pregnancy resource center.

A former Michigan native returns with new fantasy adventure book

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , ,

By Whitney Spotts

Schuler Books & Music

 

Former Michigan native and author H.M. Bouwman is scheduled to visit Schuler Books & Music Monday, March 20, at 7 p.m. with her newest release “A Crack in the Sea.”

 

“A Crack in the Sea” is an enchanting historical fantasy adventure. No one comes to the Second World on purpose. The doorway between worlds opens only when least expected. The Raft King is desperate to change that by finding the doorway that will finally take him and the people of Raftworld back home. To do it, he needs Pip, a young boy with an incredible gift — he can speak to the fish; and the Raft King is not above kdinapping to get what he wants. Pip’s sister Kitchen, though, is determined to rescue her brother and foil the Raft King’s plans.

 

The book was a Winter 2016-2017 Kids’ Indie Next Pick and A Midwest Connections Pick for January 2017. “Publishers Weekly” wrote “through the captivating interwoven tales of these three sibling pairs — and with assistance from Shimizu’s powerful illustrations — Bouwman crafts a moving narrative about family, magic, morality, the power of storytelling, and the cyclical nature of history.”

 

Bouwman also received Thanhha Lai’s Newbery Honor for her 2011 “Inside Out and Back Again.”

 

The Schuler Books & Music free event will include a talk and signing. For more information, visit www.schulerbooks.com.

 

 

Wyoming Theater Company gets a little spontaneous with March production

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

You don’t have to head to LaughFest this weekend to get a few good laughs. The Wyoming Theater Company presents “Still No Need for Improv-ment?” Thursday – Saturday, March 16 – 18, a Dan Heintzleman Auditorium, located in the Wyoming Junior High School, 2125 Wrenwood Blvd.

 

The event also serves as a fundraiser for the Wyoming Theater Company, which for more than 20 years has provided students in seventh through 12th grade an opportunity to participate in theater productions. The program is one of the largest extracurricular student group in Wyoming High School and has involved more than a 100 students every year in all areas of the arts including acting, dance, voice, graphic design, costume, makeup, lighting design and more.

 

Ansleigh Hamilton, who portrayed Morticia in the company’s fall production of “The Addams Family,” said she has been performing with the company since seventh grade and has loved every moment. Matt Bulthuis, a senior this year and who played Lucas in “The Addams Family,” said being a part of Wyoming Theater Company has been an important aspect to his high school career.

 

“The Wyoming Theater Company is very excited to bring you four awesome and unique IMPROV events this March,” according to director Jeremy Schnotala. The troupe of improv actors (7th-12th grade) have been working since December to prepare for these outlandish, fun evenings of original IMPROV comedy, he said.

 

“We will have you laughing all night as our troupe of twelve make up scenes on the spot from audience suggestions,” Schnotala said. “Each evening is made up of over a dozen different improv activities or games– ALL completely unique, fresh, and improvised right before your eyes!”

 

The first three events are special engagements–food, beverages, and entertainment included. The final evening show on Saturday, March 18, is general admission. Tickets to the three special engagements are $15 each (staff event passes not accepted for these events) and have limited seating as there is a “behind the scenes” cafe-style performance space, replete with mood lighting, comfortable lounge seating, cafe tables and more. Each event will also have three special drawings for prize packages worth anywhere from $75 to $200. See information below for details:

 

Thursday, March 16 at 7 p.m.:  COFFEE HOUSE IMPROV–tickets are $15 to this special engagement. It will be two hours of entertainment, specialty coffees, various desserts, and salty snacks.

 

FRIDAY, March 17 at 7 p.m.:  DINNER THEATER IMPROV–tickets are $15 to this special engagement. It will be two hours of entertainment, dinner, beverages, snacks, and dessert.

 

SATURDAY morning, March 18 at 11 a.m.:  PAJAMA PERFORMANCE–tiickets are $15 to this special engagement. It will include two hours of entertainment, breakfast and beverages. Coming in your pajamas is optional.

 

SATURDAY evening, March 18 at 7 p.m.:  GENERAL ADMISSION IMPROV SHOW–tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students, 18 and under. Seating will be general admission. The show will last approximately two hours.

 

Tickets may be purchased in advance by calling 616-530-7590, ext. 2367 or at the door of the Dan Heintzlman Auditorium. For more information about the show or the Wyoming Theater Company, visit www.wyomingtheatercompany.com.

 

Kentwood woman accepted for national philanthropy program

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, , , ,
Johngerlyn “Jonse” Young

By Roberta F. King

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

 

Grand Rapids Community Foundation recently announced that Director of Philanthropic Services Johngerlyn “Jonse” Young, CAP, has been selected to participate in the Council on Foundations’ 2017 Career Pathways program. This intensive, year-long leadership development program is designed to foster diverse talent and excellence among the philanthropic sector’s senior executives. Participants will graduate from the program with the knowledge, experience, and professional networks needed to be more effective in their current roles and more deliberate in their contributions to the field of philanthropy more broadly, positioning them to compete successfully for senior-level foundation positions.

 

“We’re honored and excited that Jonse was selected for the Career Pathways program. Her leadership skills have always been evident here at the Community Foundation and we’re pleased that she’ll have the opportunity to be involved nationally,” said Diana Sieger, president of Grand Rapids Community Foundation.

 

The Council is committed to a diverse and inclusive agenda for the field of philanthropy. Career Pathways is just one program in a suite of activities offered by the Council that is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through the Career Pathways program, the Council seeks to increase the number of candidates from diverse backgrounds in the leadership pipeline and strengthen the capacity of the philanthropic sector to grow and retain diverse talent.

 

Young will participate in virtual and in-person learning, networking events and career training facilitated by expert faculty representing senior executives and trustees in the field of philanthropy as well as experts from other sectors.

 

“This was an extraordinarily competitive year for the program, and the 2017 Career Pathways cohort is truly outstanding” said Council president and CEO Vikki Spruill. “These 24 individuals are remarkably talented and have shown themselves to have a deep commitment to the principals of diversity, equity, and inclusion and a calling to be of service to the field of philanthropy. Career Pathways will prepare them to be the next generation of leaders who will drive the sector’s efforts to improve lives and build vibrant communities.”

Adoptable Pets of the Week: Buddy & Sheik

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Sheik (left) and Buddy must be adopted together as a bonded pair

Each week WKTV features adoptable pets from area shelters. This week, we focus on a couple of cuties from West Michigan Ferret Connection.

 

By West Michigan Ferret Connection

 

Is there a ferret in your future? Since December 22, 1994, ferrets have been legal to own in Michigan. They make very fun pets, but they’re a lot more work than one might think.

 

First, ferrets can live up to 10 years old. That means you’ll need to make a commitment. Then there is the little matter of a very busy and curious little creature who requires mental stimulation and plenty of exercise in ferret-proofed surroundings. Ferrets also need annual vaccinations against distemper and require a rabies shot as well. They are also accident prone, will often eat things they shouldn’t and will need ideally half-yearly health checks with their vet. This can all add up and you may incur similar costs to having an outdoor cat.

 

There are several ferret breeders out there, but the sad fact is, for every ethical breeder there are many backyard breeders who don’t have the animals’ welfare at heart.

 

“In my opinion, ferrets are best obtained by rescue, not from a pet store where ferrets are ‘sold’ specifically for profit,” said Dee Gage, founder of West Michigan Ferret Connection. Featured for adoption this week are Buddy, a one-year-old male chocolate ferret and Sheik, a two-year-old black sable.

 

Dee Gage with her “ferret bouquet”

“I do not ‘sell’ ferrets. I ‘re-home’ them,” said Gage. “They’ve already been ‘dumped’ once and I want to make sure they are not dumped again. The ferrets under my care deserve to have a safe and secure ‘forever’ home and I do everything I can to guarantee that.”

 

There are no “breeds” of ferrets. There ARE, however, 38 different colors and patterns.

 

Established in October 2001, West Michigan Ferret Connection re-homes an average of 50 ferrets per year. Visit their Facebook page here.

 

Is a ferret the right pet for you?

“Ferrets aren’t for everybody and I can’t stress strongly enough that you should do your research,” said Gage.

 

A group of ferrets is called a “business”

Buddy and Sheik must be adopted as a bonded pair. If you’re interested in adopting these cuties, Call WMFC at 616.447.2978 or email wmfc2001@sbcglobal.net.

 

The West Michigan Ferret Connection is a home-based ferret rescue providing rescue services, boarding, adoption & education.

Employment Expertise: The power of words

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By West Michigan Works!

 

A résumé should display your unique skills and abilities. A strong résumé should make you stand out from the crowd, so try to show your work history and abilities in an interesting way. One way to do this is using action-oriented words to describe your individual talents.

 

Choose words that show employers real activities with measurable results. Words like “was” or “became” do not say much about what you actually did. Instead, choose verbs that lead to questions such as “how,” “how many,” “how much,” “when,” “where,” “who” and “why.” Good words should make you want to include more details and make the reader want to know more.  You can provide the specifics on how you achieved your results during the interview.

Example of weak word choice:
“I became Lead Scheduler after six months with the office.”

Example of strong word choice:
“I reduced the number of unfilled appointments by 30% in my first 6 months with the office.”

Here are 20 action verbs to consider using in your résumé:

  • Accomplished
  • Arranged
  • Assisted
  • Collaborated
  • Completed
  • Delivered
  • Generated
  • Improved
  • Managed
  • Monitored
  • Operated
  • Planned
  • Processed
  • Produced
  • Reduced
  • Reported
  • Scheduled
  • Screened
  • Tested
  • Updated

Take the time to review and re-write your résumé to include strong action verbs. This will clearly show the employer the value you will offer as an employee. You want your résumé to make a good first impression so you’ll get the interview!

Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.

School News Network: Drive-up DNA Lesson delivers STEM to school’s front door

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Lisandra Yimenez and Isabelle Crotser complete the experiment

By Erin Albanese

School News Network

 

Inside a 40-foot mobile classroom parked outside their school, Southwood Elementary students got to the “true core” of their food — its basic building blocks — by extracting DNA from wheat germ. The activity followed a multi-step process and ended with little bits of goo on paper clips fashioned into hooks.

 

Resulting in “oohs,” “ahhs” and looks of both fascination and disgust, they had successfully separated DNA using a mix of water, alcohol and detergent.

 

Kyle Olsen and Zack Myers work together

During the lesson taught by Lindsay Grasman, a science lab educator at Food, Agriculture & Resources in Motion (FARM), fifth-graders learned about agriculture, and how genetics play a role in all living things including the crops raised by Michigan farmers.

 

Kentwood Public Schools is piloting the FARM program through the Michigan Farm Bureau’s Agriculture in the Classroom program. It is the brainchild of a group of farmers working with 26 Michigan county farm bureaus. The pilot program continues through June with 26 schools in Kent and Oakland counties.

 

The purpose, Grasman said, is to help teach students about how food gets to the table and the role of agriculture in their lives. The mobile lab is equipped with tablets, where students work in lab spaces, and other technologies for presenting lessons tied to Next Generation Science Standards, a set of teaching guidelines for kindergarten through 12th-graders.

 

In Michigan, agriculture is the second largest industry in contributing more than $101 billion to the state’s economy, according to the Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom website. Michigan produces more than 300 commodities, making it the state with the second most diverse agriculture industry in the nation, behind California.

 

Hector Rodriguez adds the wheat germ

Every Living Thing

 

“It helps them learn more about where their food and fiber comes from,” Grasman said. “We want them to have a more informed consumer base.”

The genetics lesson had students’ interest piqued.

 

“I thought it was very cool to learn that DNA is actually in every living thing, even wheat,” said Kyle Olsen.

 

Added Breanna Duron: “I didn’t know wheat had DNA. I thought only animals did. I like how they didn’t just show us in a movie. They had us do it ourselves and see it with our own eyes.”

 

The lab offers several other activities, including making plastic out of corn starch, measuring contaminants in water, making soy-based crayons, and food safety.

 

Nancy McKenzie, the district’s STEM coordinator, requested Kentwood be included in the pilot program. Seven district elementary schools participated. “I’m sure most of them don’t know where food comes from before the grocery store,” she said. “This gives them a little insight into that, one little part and parcel of the agricultural business, but it also fits with all our science standards.”

 

Alissa Minaker looks at the DNA she extracted from wheat germ

“I love to see the excitement they get when they go through the whole process and get to the end product. It’s fun to see them excited about working in a lab setting.”

 

The Michigan lab was modeled after the Mobile Science Activity Center from Kentucky’s Department of Agriculture, which visited North Godwin Elementary, in Godwin Heights Public Schools in 2015 at the request of Michigan Farm Bureau.

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

River City Water Festival celebrates role of Grand River

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By Dottie Barnes

Grand Valley State University

 

The third annual River City Water Festival, a community event celebrating the Grand River and its role in shaping the city of Grand Rapids, will be held March 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

 

The free event is sponsored by the Groundswell initiative through the College of Education at Grand Valley State University in partnership with the West Michigan Environmental Action Council.

 

The festival will feature hands-on, educational activities designed to engage participants about the need to protect water resources. Participants will learn how small actions at home can make a big difference in the quality of the Grand River.

 

An awards ceremony at 11 a.m. will be held to honor the top three winners of the Water Superhero Poster Contest that was open to area 5th, 6th and 7th grade students. The grand prize went to Jolene Barcelo, a 5th grade student at Grand Rapids Montessori. The top 20 posters will be on display at the museum during the festival.

 

Festival activities will be led by Grand Valley’s Annis Water Resources Institute, the Blandford Nature Center, John Ball Zoo, Plaster Creek Stewards, the City of Grand Rapids Environmental Services Department, Kent Conservation District, Macatawa Area Coordinating Council, and more.

 

Financial support for the event comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency through the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, as well as Grand Valley’s College of Education.

 

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at 272 Pearl St. NW. For more information visit http://groundswellmi.org/river-city-water-festival.

Kent County Board approves funding for mental health court study

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By Lisa LaPlante

Kent County

 

Mental health issues are perhaps one of the largest contributing factors to recidivism. Providing much-needed treatment to those suffering from mental health issues could help offenders recover and stay out of the justice system, while alleviating the strain on the courts and jails. The Board of Commissioners recently voted to accept a $33,000 Mental Health Court Planning Grant from the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) be appropriated to the 2017 Special Projects Fund budget.

 

The State Legislature created the mental health court statute in 2013, enabling trial courts in Michigan to develop and operate mental health courts.  A mental health court is a specialized court docket for certain defendants with mental illness that substitutes a problem-solving model for traditional criminal court processing.  The SCAO makes funds available annually for planning and implementation of mental health courts.

 

The 17th Circuit Court, in collaboration with Network180, received the funding to evaluate the need for a mental health court within Kent County and how these services would best be delivered.  As required by the grant, staff representing the 17th Circuit Court, local district court, Network180, County Prosecutor, Sheriff’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, mental health services providers and County Administration will participate in the project planning committee.

 

“We simply cannot operate in silos when it comes to the mental health system and the justice system,” said Judge Donald A. Johnston, 17th Circuit Court Chief Judge. “By working together, we hope to enhance public safety and make a difference in the lives of individuals who are trapped in an endless cycle of illness and jail.”

 

Grant funds will be primarily used to contract with a consultant to serve as the Mental Health Court Planning Coordinator. The coordinator will work with the project planning committee to determine whether implementation of a mental health court in Kent County would reduce recidivism, enhance public safety, and improve outcomes for mentally ill citizens.

 

“When we treat mental health issues successfully, we will save money that would be spent on court costs and incarceration,” said Jim Saalfeld, Chair of the Board of Commissioners. “Our Board is hopeful that this study will result in development of a program into the future.”

 

James Hughes, former Regional Administrator for the Michigan Supreme Court, will coordinate the effort on a contractual basis under the direction of the 17th Circuit Court Administrator Andrew Thalhammer.  “Kent County has a great opportunity to improve outcomes for persons with serious mental illness who become involved in its criminal justice system.  I plan to identify the best practices from other Mental Health Courts in Michigan that could be started here in Grand Rapids,” Hughes said.

 

The study is expected to be completed by September 30, 2017 to allow development of a proposal for an implementation grant during FY 2018 if recommended by the planning committee and accepted by the court and appropriate funding unit.

 

“Treatment is a much more cost-effective way to deal with mental health issues, but it is also a more holistic course of action,” said Scott Gilman, Executive Director of Network180. “I look forward to the work we can do and the lives we can positively impact through this planning period.”

Holocaust survivor to visit Grand Valley State University

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Magda Brown

A woman who survived the Holocaust and escaped imprisonment will give a presentation at Grand Valley State University on March 15, as part of Women’s History Month.

 

In 1944, Magda Brown, from Hungary, was sent to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in Poland, where she was separated from her family. She spent time at a work camp before escaping with several other prisoners during a march to Buchenwald. They were discovered and liberated by American soldiers. Brown, now 89 years old, moved to the U.S. in 1946. She is a great aunt of Samantha Murray, a Grand Valley student who is president of the university’s Hillel chapter.

 

Brown’s presentation will take place from 7-9 p.m. in room 2250 of the Kirkhof Center on the Allendale Campus.

 

Magda Brown at a younger age.

Hillel member Robin Hutchings said Brown’s presentation will be recorded and donated to Grand Valley’s archives for future campus community members to watch.

 

“Magda loves presenting to university students because she feels we have a great ability to make change in our societies,” said Hutchings.

 

Brown was united with her brother, Miklos Brown, in 1962. For 40 years, Brown worked in a physician’s office as a certified medical assistant. She is an active member and past president of the American Association of Medical Assistants, Illinois Society. She is also a member of the Speaker’s Bureau of the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center. Learn more about Brown at www.magdabrown.com.

Acclaimed environmental documentary to be shown at Saugatuck Center for the Arts

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Leonardo DiCaprio in the documentary “Before the Flood.”

By Angela Peavey

Saugatuck Center for the Arts

 

Academy Award-winning film-maker Fisher Stevens and Academy Award-winning actor, environmental activist, and U.N. Messenger of Peace Leonardo DiCaprio delve into the science and impact of climate change in their acclaimed documentary “Before the Flood.” The film is part of the Saugatuck Center for the Arts’ Real to Reel Series and set to screen March 16 at 7 p.m.

 

According to DiCaprio, “This documentary shows how interconnected the fate of all humanity is—but also the power we all possess as individuals to build a better future for our planet.”

 

This film, presented by National Geographic, follows DiCaprio as he travels to five continents and the Arctic to witness culminate change firsthand. He goes on expeditions with scientists uncovering the reality of climate change and meets with political leaders fighting against inactions. He also discovers a calculated disinformation campaign orchestrated by powerful special interests working to confuse the public about the urgency of the growing powerful special interests working to confuse the public about the urgency of the growing climate crisis.

 

“This is one of many documentaries about climate change; many aren’t much fun, but with DiCaprio at its center, this one offers crucial, current information, as well as a measure of hope,” says Common Sense Media.

 

With unprecedented access to thought leaders around the world, DiCaprio searches for hope in a rising tide of catastrophic news.

 

Saugatuck Center for the Arts is located at 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. General admission tickets are $5 for members and $7 for future members. For more information on this event please visit sc4a.org or call 269-857-2399.

 

 

The Public Museum’s newest exhibit goes dark, allowing the creatures to light the way

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This slideshow requires JavaScript.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Fireflies dancing across the night sky. Jellyfish floating gracefully through a sea’s current. Each of these offer a colorful display of light in the darkness.

 

That generation of light by living things is called bioluminescence, which is created by chemical reactions. And it is not produced for beauty but used to attract a mate, lure unsuspecting prey and/or defend against a predator. These creatures who use bioluminescence are the focus of a new Grand Rapids Public Museum exhibit, “Creatures of the Light.”

 

“This is a very different exhibit for us,” said Kate Moore, the Public Museum’s vice president of marketing and public relations, adding that is partly because the exhibit is in very low light as to better showcase the bioluminescence of the plants and animals featured. “It is a different topic then what we have offered in the past and it has an emersion feel that you experience as you travel through the exhibit.”

 

Opening on Saturday and running through July 9, “Creatures of the Light,” starts by exploring the living things that are on the ground that utilize bioluminescence, such as mushrooms, or fly through the air, such as fireflies. From there, it travels to Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand where visitors can feel what it is like to view the worms in the caves.

 

The recreated Waitomo Glowworm Caves of New Zealand. (Photo courtesy of the Grand Rapids Public Museum)

Then the exhibit heads to open water, where a majority of bioluminescence creatures live. “In the depths of the ocean, there is complete darkness so the animals living there survive using bioluminescence,” Moore said. Think of “Finding Nemo,” when Dory and Marlin, swimming in complete darkness, see a light and follow it almost right into the hungry mouth of a angler fish.

 

But before you can get to the depths, you must first explore the ocean’s surface where plankton organisms called dinoflagellates will follow your movement and creating a glowing halo around anything that moves. From there, is the Bloody Bay Wall, lit up by coral and fishes followed, of course, by jellyfish. And then finally, you are where almost 90 percent of the bioluminescence animals live, 2,200 feet below sea level in darkness, where the angler fish is waiting to greet you along with some other interesting animals.

 

While the exhibit is dark, it is not scary, Moore said with Public Museum’s Marketing Communications Manager Christie Bender liking it to a ride at Disney World that has little or no light. “It’s a fun experience,” Bender said. “It has that Disney ride, magical sense.”

 

Elements such as the illuminated floor with the dinoflagellates will easily entertain along with the wonderment of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Adding to the exhibit, will be a pop-up store by the entrance into the exhibit offering glow sticks, as well as other items, allowing participants to “glow” as they move through the exhibit.

 

“Creatures of the Light” is one of two new spring/summer exhibits at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Opening in May will be “Mindbender Manson,” which will feature 40 brain teasers and five group activities.

 

“The Museum is excited to bring in these two new, innovative exhibits that encourage our visitors to explore more about the world around us, as well as test knowledge and
skills in puzzle solving,” said GRPM’s President & CEO Dale Robertson. “’Creatures of Light’ reveals some of the most magical, wondrous, and truly extraordinary creatures and phenomena to be found in the natural world, and ‘Mindbender Mansion’ is a family friendly way to learn and adapt constructive thinking skills.”

“Creatures of Light” is part of the museum general admission which is $8 for adults, $5 for  Kent County resident adults; $7 for seniors, $3 for Kent County resident seniors, and $3 for students.  “Mindbender Manison” will be $10 for adults, $5 for children, $7 for Kent County resident adults and $2 for Kent County resident children, and free for Museum members.

For more information about exhibits and programs at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, visit www.grpm.org. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is located at 272 Pearl St. NW.

Government Matters: March 6-10 week in review

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Peters named Ranking Member on Senate subcommittee overseeing U.S. Coast Guard, NOAA

“Next to our people, the Great Lakes are Michigan’s most precious resource and play a central role in our state’s economy, environment, and way of life,” said Senator Peters.

“As Ranking Member of this subcommittee, I look forward to continuing my bipartisan work to protect and preserve the Great Lakes and strengthen our economy by advancing commercial shipping, fishing and tourism industries. These efforts take on a new urgency and importance in light of reports outlining President Trump’s proposed cuts to the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Coast Guard, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other important programs — cuts that pose a threat to our Great Lakes.”

NOAA provides research, information, and services to support decisions that affect recreation, the environment, public health and safety, and the economy of the Great Lakes. Their Office of Marine Sanctuaries manages the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary to protect the unique history preserved by more than 100 discovered shipwrecks within the sanctuary while also maintaining responsible and sustainable recreational and commercial uses in the area.

As a member of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force and Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, Peters has made the protection and preservation of the Great Lakes a top priority. His efforts include:

  • Co-authored legislation that was signed into law to increase federal pipeline safety and oversight by designating the Great Lakes as a high consequence area, improving oil spill response plans to address ice cover and require critical reviews of pipeline age and integrity.
  • Worked to secure authorization for a new icebreaker in the Great Lakes as part of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2015. In the winter of 2014-15, ice cover on the Great Lakes contributed to an estimated 3.2 million ton decrease in cargo, costing nearly $355 million in lost revenue and 2,000 lost jobs.
  • Passed a provision requiring the USCG to conduct an assessment of oil spill response activities for cleanup in fresh water, especially under heavy ice cover.
  • Introduced the Great Lakes Fishery Research Authorization Act to provide better federal funding opportunities, update technologies and create new research projects to benefit the Great Lakes. Despite the size of the Great Lakes and the value of the fishery, the Great Lakes science program does not have the same funding authorizations as science centers on saltwater coasts.
  • Led delegation of Great Lakes Senators in urging Department of Transportation to take a leadership role in the implementation of a first-ever regional strategy for the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence maritime transportation system (MTS). Currently, the Great Lakes MTS is a major regional and national transportation asset, but is significantly under-utilized and operating at an estimated 50% of its full capacity.

Peters, colleagues urge Trump Administration to stop cuts to Coast Guard

Proposed 12 percent cut would severely restrict Coast Guard’s national, economic security operations on the Great Lakes

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee overseeing the U.S. Coast Guard, helped lead a bipartisan group of 23 Senators in a letter urging Office of Management and Budget Administrator Mick Mulvaney not to make a $1.3 billion dollar cut to the budget of the U.S. Coast Guard.

According to reports, the FY 2018 Presidential Budget Request could amount to almost 12 percent of the service’s budget being cut. The U.S. Coast Guard plays a critical role in protecting our Northern border along the Great Lakes, conducting counter-terrorism patrols and law enforcement operations, and ensuring the smooth flow of goods on Great Lakes year round.

The Coast Guard is responsible for patrolling 721 miles of Michigan’s northern border to protect national security and combat drug and human trafficking. In Michigan, they operate a fleet of six cutters, three air stations and two Aids to Navigation teams that support critical ice-breaking operations, conduct search and rescue missions and provide navigation support to ships on the Great Lakes.

Senators Peters, Perdue reintroduce ‘No Hero Left Untreated Act’

U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and David Perdue (R-GA) have reintroduced the No Hero Left Untreated Act to enhance medical care for America’s heroes. The bipartisan legislation would create a pilot program to test an innovative treatment called Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy for veterans to help treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI) and other mental health issues. Peters and Perdue are both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Peters is a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

Sen. Gary Peters

“Veterans suffering from the devastating effects of PTSD, traumatic brain injury and military sexual trauma deserve to have the best, most cutting-edge treatment available,”said Senator Peters, a former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

“Incorporating innovative new treatment options like Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy technology into VA medical centers has the potential to improve treatment for veterans and create meaningful change in their lives.”

The No Hero Left Untreated Act would establish a pilot program at two medical centers within the VA network and enroll up to 50 veterans in Magnetic EEG/ECG-Guided Resonance Therapy (MeRT) for a one-year period.

Huizenga testifies before Congress on Great Lakes economy

Congressman Bill Huizenga, Co-Chair of the U.S. House Great Lakes Task Force, testified before the House Appropriations Energy and Water Subcommittee on the importance of properly using funds collected in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund and water infrastructure across the Great Lakes. Congressman Huizenga discussed the strong bipartisan effort he has led to hold Washington accountable and make the federal government live up to its promise of dredging harbors across the Great Lakes. Huizenga also warned of the negative economic consequences including fewer jobs and fewer American products being exported should the federal government fail to live up to its obligation.

Peters urges FCC to protect Internet access for rural, high-poverty schools & libraries

U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) joined his colleagues in urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to protect the E-Rate Program, which ensures the neediest schools and libraries — especially those in rural and high poverty areas — have affordable Internet access. The E-Rate Program has given students across Michigan access to modern teaching tools that expand their knowledge and prepare them to enter the 21st century workforce. FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s recent decision to retract a report detailing the E-Rate Program’s success has stirred concern that the new Administration will not support the vital program.

“E-Rate helps schools and libraries in every state by supporting access to modern communications and the Internet. Such access is critical if we are a country that is serious about preparing and educating our children for the digital age,” the Senators wrote.

Peters joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tom Udall (D-NM), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Al Franken (D-MN), Jeffery Merkley (D-OR), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Bob Casey (D-PA) in signing the letter.

In a neighborhood next door, comes a comedian of Jedi portions

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Charles Ross in Edinburgh (Supplied by Charles Ross)

By Kathy Richards

Van Singel Fine Arts Center

Like many, many others, Charles Ross spent much of his childhood watching and re-watching (and re-watching again) the Star Wars Trilogy. The result of his deep love and appreciation for the film series is his hilarious show One Man Star Wars, presented by the 2016-2017 Chemical Bank Series on Thursday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m.

In the show, Ross single-handedly plays all the characters, sings the music, flies the ships fights the battles and condenses the plots into one fun show for all ages. He does so with no props, sets or light-sabers. It’s evokes the films famous scenes, dialogue and musical themes but also allows the audience to use its imagination.

Officially endorsed by Lucasfilm Ltd, and produced by the same company as Evil Dead! The Musical and Potted Potter, Ross’ energetic performance has toured to London’s West End, Off Broadway, Dubai and the Sydney Opera House.

SPIN magazine called the show “funnier than you can possibly imagine.” Conan O’Brien praised its accessibility and the Chicago Sun Times saluted Ross on his “impressive Star Wars run in less than 12 parsecs!”

Reserved seats are $24.50 for adults and $16.50 for students (high school and younger). Reserve tickets in person at the Van Singel box office or by calling 626-878-6800, Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are also available online at www.vsfac.com.

The Van Singel Fine Arts Center sits at the east end of the Byron Center High School complex, located 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.

Spring Ahead: 5 warm weather prep ideas to save energy and money

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By ACSET Community Action Agency

Daylight savings time begins at 2 am, Sunday, March 12 this year. Did you know daylight savings time began in the U.S. to increase daylight hours and decrease candle usage to save money? Instead of looking at spring’s annual time change as the loss of an hour of sleep, consider using it as reminder to make your home more efficient for the spring and summer.

ACSET Community Action Agency (CAA) currently has funds available to help qualifying individuals weatherize their home. Weatherization services not only reduce heating costs in the winter but help keep your home cooler in the summer. Learn more about the Weatherization Assistance Program here and contact us to see if you qualify at 616.336.4000.

Here are five more ways to save energy and money this spring and summer!

  1. Change your furnace filter. If you haven’t done this in a while, now is a great time. After running more to heat your home over the winter, your furnace will thank you. Not only will it improve the air quality in your home, it will help your furnace run more efficiently — saving you money!
  2. Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. This is a task that is easily forgotten but incredibly important for your family’s safety. Test all of your detectors and swap out old batteries. Need a new detector? Many fire departments have free smoke detector installation programs; contact yours to find out more.
  3. Tune up your AC. Your air conditioner needs upkeep to work as efficiently as possible this upcoming summer. Changing the filters will improve efficiency and save money, but having a professional check your system before the weather heats up is an even better idea.
  4. Redirect ceiling fans. Did you know that in the winter you should set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise to distribute warm air? Likewise, set your fans to rotate counter-clockwise in the spring and summer. This can keep your rooms cooler in warm weather, limiting the need to run the air conditioner.
  5. Dust. Over the winter dust can accumulate in nooks and crannies. Do some spring cleaning to remove dust from electronics that may be forcing them to work harder. Dust air vents to allow for maximum efficiency and circulation. Vacuum your refrigerator coils. The dust that settles there can cause your fridge to work harder and cost you more money.

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