Category Archives: 3-bottom

Grand Valley Artists keep the art discussion going

3-bottom, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, , , , ,

 

 

defaultgva_squareBy Anthony Wilder Puzzuoli

LocalFirst

 

When one thinks about “Grand Rapids” and “art,” it’s impossible not to think about ArtPrize. The event helped put Grand Rapids on the map and into the national art discussion. However, before and after the crowds leave, the art community of Grand Rapids is still here, and has been here for a while. Organizations like the Grand Valley Artists are providing valuable opportunities for area artists of all skill levels to connect, learn, provide critique and improve.

 

Founded in 1955, Grand Valley Artists is one of the oldest art organizations in Michigan. According to Bob Kraai, it was founded in response to a greater emphasis being placed on modern art in the city. Grand Valley Artists sought to bring more awareness to Realism and traditional art. Members would meet to draw, discuss and share their art with each other.

 

This volunteer-run organization currently meets in a space north of Leonard on Monroe in the Coopers Landing building. A quick look at the group’s monthly calendar shows a plethora of opportunities for artists of all medias. A photography group meets twice a month and there are recurrent meetings for figure sketching, plein air/still life, still life studio and portrait sketching. Plein air painting, for those curious, is the act of painting outside, in the open air. Be on the lookout for this group out and about town. The organization also offers monthly critique sessions that take place the first Thursday of each month. Artists are encouraged to share their work and thoughts. These are great opportunities to see one’s work through a different lens.  In addition to the meetings, the organization produces a monthly newsletter highlighting artists, showings, and art events around town.

 

Perhaps the Grand Valley Artist’s most well-known event is the annual Reed’s Lake Art Festival. 2017 marks the 52nd year of the popular festival that takes place along Wealthy Street in East Grand Rapids. Each summer hundreds of people visit the festival to experience and purchase art from fine artists from all over the country. One quick note, if you’re interested in participating this year, you can fill out an application – the deadline is March 1, 2017.

 

The organization isn’t just for artists. Those with an interest are welcome to attend events and most of the programming is available to non-members for a minor fee. With that in mind, the Grand Valley Artists are hosting a Photography Group Artists Reception this Saturday Nov. 5, from 4 – 8 p.m. Examples of “photographic composites, hand colored black and white silver gelatins, tin types, collodions and metallic prints” will be on display as well as refreshments. The reception will be taking place at the Grand Valley Artists’ space at 1345 Monroe Avenue Suite 140, in the Coopers Landing building.

 

For more information about the Photography Group Artists Reception and Grand Valley Artists in general, visit www.grandvalleyartists.com.

WKTV presents documentary on civil rights movement

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, WKTV Projects, , , , , , ,

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WKTV will present a new film by award-nominated writers/directors/producers Bayer Mack and Frances Presley Rice that is designed to help gain insight into the significance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s role in the civil rights movement and to develop a better understanding of the movement itself.

 

“In the Hour of Chaos” will air three times on WKTV Channel 25, noon Wednesday, Nov. 2; 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5; and 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8.

 

The main characters featured in the documentary “In the Hour of Chaos” are Martin Luther King, Sr (Daddy King), Martin Luther King, Jr., Coretta Scott King, Murray M. Silver and Malcolm X.

 

The story is presented in six parts and is set against a backdrop of sociopolitical intrigue, as well as racial and labor unrest, stretching from late 19th to early 20th century America,

 

The first part recounts the intriguing, but contentious relationship between Daddy King and Coretta, the woman his son (Martin, Jr.) chose to be his wife and who influenced his son’s decisions in the fight for black civil rights.

 

506137935The second part brings to light Daddy King’s formative, impoverished childhood years in the violent backwoods of Georgia, which shaped his world view and forged his internal fortitude that served him well in his decades-long civil rights struggle. It also includes how he went from being a teenage runaway in the sinister rail-yards of Atlanta, as well as his efforts to re-invent himself through faith, education and his courtship and eventual marriage to Alberta Williams.

 

The third part features Daddy King’s activism in Atlanta and how his work with black church leaders sparked nationalism.

 

The fourth part details Daddy King’s involvement in national politics and how Communism taints the civil rights movement that’s also altered by the radical idealism of Malcolm X which conflicts with the approach of Daddy King and his protégé, his son Martin, Jr.

 

The fifth part documents how Daddy King was affected by the deaths of his two sons (Martin Jr. and Alfred) and his wife (Alberta), as well as the unintended consequences those deaths had on race relations in America.

 

The sixth part focuses on Daddy King’s joining forces with Murray M. Silver and destroying the political career of arch segregationist Lester Maddox, which ushered in a new day in the old South.

 

The idea for this documentary was conceived by Rice, executive producer of Block Starz Music Television LLC. Block Starz’s CEO Mack, joined Rice and they coordinated in the production of this historic documentary.

 

Block Starz Music Television LLC is an American independent film and television company based in Sarasota, Florida. The studio is best known for its documentary film “Oscar Micheaux: The Czar of Black Hollywood” that was nominated for a Black Reel Award as the “Outstanding Independent Documentary” by the Foundation for the Advancement of African-Americans in Film (FAAAF).

PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue” is Nov. 9 at DeVos Hall

3-bottom, Education, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , ,

property-header-paw-patrol-desktop-portrait-2xBased on the Spin Master-produced, hit animated TV series on Nickelodeon, PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue” brings PAW Patrol characters to the stage for an action-packed, musical adventure. When Mayor Goodway is nowhere to be found during the day of the Great Race, the pups come to the rescue. Join Ryder, Chase, Marshall, Rocky, Rubble, Zuma, Skye and the newest pup, Everest, when they take the stage for two shows at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW, Wednesday, Nov. 9, at 10 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

 

PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue” shows that “no job is too big, no pup is too small,” and shares lessons for all ages about citizenship, social skills and problem-solving as the characters each use their unique skills and teamwork. The show includes two acts and an intermission, and incorporates an innovative costume approach that brings the pups to life on stage with their vehicles and packs during the rescue mission.

 

The performance features up-tempo music and is considered a good introduction to live theater for young children. Classic theatrical scenery along with a high-tech video wall visually transports families to locations from the TV series, like Adventure Bay, The Lookout, Seal Island, Farmer Yumi’s Farm and Jake’s Mountain. During the show, guests have the opportunity to participate in the adventure and become a part of the PAW Patrol Cheer Team.

 

Ticket prices are $19.50, $29.50, $39.50, $57.50, and $112.50 for VIP. Tickets are available here, at the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena box offices, Ticketmaster.com, and by phone at 1-800-745-3000. A purchase limit of 10 tickets will apply to every order and prices are subject to change. All children ages one and older will require a ticket.

 

Groups of 10 or more can save $5 per ticket excluding VIP and Gold Circle seats. Groups can call 616-742-6185 or email GroupSales@smggr.com for more information or to purchase group tickets.

SCA announces top 10 finalists for 2016 Saugatuck Shorts Film Festival

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, , ,

sc4a

 

Marking its fourth year spotlighting Michigan film with the help of filmmakers and industry professionals, Saugatuck Center for the Arts (SCA) has announced the top 10 finalists of the 2016 Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition.

 

Hand-selected by a group of five film industry professionals, the finalists (in no particular order) are:

 

In the ADULT category

  • Hold On – Andrew Behm
  • Summer – Paul Yergin
  • Buying Happiness – Paul Chittland
  • Conrad – Brittany Dunn
  • The Craftsman – Chris Mac

In the STUDENT category

  • Oh the Voices – Carson Tate
  • A Lake Michigan Sunset – Brennan Huizinga
  • A Taste of Michigan – Dario Lirio and Brennan Huizinga
  • October in Michigan – Holly Parker
  • The Pencil – Jillian Parker

The panel of judges has also decided who will be taking home the cash prizes of $2,500 for both the student and adult categories: $500 judges’ award for best student film, $1,000 judges award for best adult film, and $1,000 for “Fan Favorite.” Audience members will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite after all the films have been screened. All of the films for the competition were challenged to use their interpretation of “Michigan Flavor.”

 

The judges for this year’s competition were chosen based on their familiarity with the entertainment industry and their ability to provide credible, constructive feedback.

 

“We couldn’t ask for a greater group of people,” said SCA Marketing and Sales Director, Angela Peavey. ”Film is one of my passions, and to see these professionals willing to offer their time and talents is absolutely amazing. We’re very lucky to have them.”

 

The first industry professional taking the judge’s seat is Shane Carson. In 2014, Carson joined the prestigious SAG/AFTRA union and just returned from California where he represented the State of Michigan at their regional conference. Carson is most known for his role in the film, Pirate’s Code: The Adventures of Mickey Matson, where he portrayed the character Gunner Team Leader. Shane has also acted in 40+ lead roles in films. Follow him on social media @WowShane.

 

Co-founder of the Thriller! Chiller! Film Festival and owner of UnSAFE Film Office, Anthony Griffin also judged this year’s competition. UnSAFE Film Office has produced and shot multiple documentaries, short films, music videos and commercials over the last decade. Griffin has served on the board for the West Michigan Video and Film Alliance and the Grand Rapids Community Media Center and was named Michigan’s Top Filmmaker in 2010.

 

Doug Remtema owner of Sonlight Films also served as a judge at this year’s competition. Remtema started Sonlight Films in 2003 and works on producing films and television shows that revolve around positive and uplifting material.

 

Another judge, Kristin Mellian, has performed professionally in film, television, Off-Broadway and regional theatre. As a vocalist Mellian has headlined on Celebrity and Oceania Cruiselines traveling to North America, Central America, South America, Europe and Africa. Mellian is currently working in the acting department at the Compass College of Cinematic Arts.

 

Producer with Alarm 25 Studios and Media Director at Resurrection Life Church, Sean Silvia is another judge for this year’s competition. With a strong education and experience in theatre, film, live event production and graphic design, Silvia has a passion for creative storytelling and innovative media. Silvia prides himself on understanding the art in the details and pushes the design to it’s fullest.

 

The Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition will be held on November 5 at 400 Culver Street. The doors to the event will open at 6:30 pm, and those attending will have the chance to meet with the finalists and enjoy a cash bar. The screening of the films will begin at 7:15 pm.

 

Tickets are $10/Students and $20/adults and can be purchased online here or by at  phone at 269.857.2399.

 

Students need civics more than ever, educators say

3-bottom, Area Education, Education, Local Faces, , , ,
Ellen Zwarensteyn
Ellen Zwarensteyn

By: Erin Albanese – School News Network

 

Hillary Baker and Ellen Zwarensteyn have coached students in becoming so well-versed in government and civics that they take home national awards.

 

Baker has led outstanding We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution teams, made up of high school students who rattle off informed opinions about different facets of the U.S. Constitution in front of lawyers, judges and professors. Zwarensteyn has coached award-winning high school debaters who argue different sides of complex policy.

 

But despite their track records in engaging students in civics, politics and government, both educators say there is much work to be done. As the U.S. presidential campaign creeps closer and closer toward Election Day, evidence mounts that good civics education is more important than ever.

 

Baker and Zwarensteyn are crafting civics curriculum and training teachers nationally, as well as working to get debate and We the People teams in more schools.

 

“It’s been a real interesting year in how might we craft how we talk about the election and really getting kids to explore issues,” Baker said. “How do you go beyond the candidates and really unearth and look at issues, and be able to talk about the election in a way that promotes deep understanding?”

 

screen-shot-2016-10-31-at-1-31-19-pmBaker and Zwarensteyn’s work spans more than two decades at East Kentwood High School. Baker taught civics, Advanced Placement government, and coached We the People for over 15 years. She is now Forest Hills Central High School’s assistant principal. Zwarensteyn coached debate for 15 years and has served as a teacher and coach since 2006. She is on leave to work on other projects focused on civics teaching.

 

How Have We Gotten Here?

 

Because of their work, the pair have a sense of the current teaching climate. Many teachers don’t feel up to the task of even including the election in classroom discussion, they say.

 

“We’ve had civics teachers say they are not going to talk about it at all,” Zwarensteyn said.

 

But skipping lessons on polemic issues fuels the divide even further, she said.

 

“That’s the $20,000 question,” Baker said. “Many teachers are afraid to talk about politics in the classroom because they are afraid of backlash from parents or the administration.”

 

But students quickly pick up on tone and what is considered OK to say. Hateful, insulting talk and rhetoric can be contagious. Knowing how to appropriately conduct political discourse is a vanishing skill set, Zwarensteyn said.

 

“It’s almost as if someone might have given other people permission to speak that way,” she said. “Honestly, many students are afraid. What we have seen is that they don’t have a fundamental understanding of themselves yet enough to filter what they are hearing in the news.”

 

Added Baker: “(It’s) that whole idea of civil discourse and how do we appropriately model it in the classroom? How do we engage in ideas and issues, especially when the adults in the national spotlight don’t necessarily do that very well themselves?”

 

hillarybakerAdults Create the Climate

 

While students are influenced by candidates, more than anything they mimic other adults, Zwarensteyn said.

 

“If people at home aren’t filtering or watching multiple news sources or aren’t getting their news from multiple different perspectives, then there’s very little chance for that kid to see other divergent points of view.”

 

That’s perhaps one reason the country is so polarized, she added: “We only seek out information that confirms an existing bias, and students don’t see that as a particular problem yet. They see news as news, not a perspective.”

 

Baker and Zwarensteyn are encouraging teachers to think deeper and consider these questions: How do we teach ethical listening to one another? How do we teach what privilege looks like or taking multiple perspectives on an issue? How do we honor different opinions and still have a baseline of civility?

 

The goal of their far-ranging work is to give students a broader view and deeper knowledge of things that impact their lives.

 

“These programs are good for all kids,” Baker said. “It’s the kind of learning students are doing that really engages them in current issues and what’s going on around them in their communities, in the state and the nation and even around the world.”

 

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

Trick your kids into veggies!

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Food, Health, Local Food, ,

trick-kidThe struggle is real: Getting your child to eat just a few bites of his vegetables can be like pulling teeth. Frustrated? Well, here are five ways you can trick your kid into eating vegetables:

  1. Blend them into a smoothie. Add some kale into a strawberry and banana smoothie. Your child will never know the difference.
  2. Sneak them into baked goods. There are many baked treats that you can sneak nutritious veggies in. Check out this recipe for green zucchini muffins!
  3. Take your kids grocery shopping with you. Allow them to pick out their own vegetables. It will get them more excited to try them.
  4. Serve food your child already likes. Try adding peas or other vegetables into macaroni and cheese. This is an easy way to ease your children into vegetables. And who doesn’t like vegetables covered in melted cheese?
  5. When in doubt, turn them into soup. You can make vegetables savory and delicious by adding them to a stew or soup.

If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy delicious and healthy vegetables, check out our Farm Market recipes. You can also subscribe to our mailing list for upcoming food and nutrition classes.

Make, learn, do at Barnes & Noble’s Mini Maker Faire

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Kids Activities, , , ,

exterior_of_barnes__noble_tanforan

 

Barnes & Noble Grand Rapids will host its second annual Mini Maker Faire Nov. 5 and 6 at the Woodland Mall location, 3195 28thSt. SE.

 

The event is designed to deliver authentic, credible experiences that Maker Faire attendees have historically come to expect. The lineup will give customers the opportunity to “Meet the Makers” by showcasing local Makers including Quota International, The Geek Group and KDL Labs to participate in interactive product demonstrations and take part in collaborative hands-on experiences designed to stretch their imaginations and creative thinking as they work cooperatively to make something original:

 

Make Workspace
At Barnes & Noble Grand Rapids during the Mini Maker Faire, there will be a “Make” Workspace, which is a tech-educational expo space, where customers of all ages will be able to participate in content-driven sessions where booksellers and Makers will demo some of the leading products in modern technology. Customers will be able to experience the latest in virtual reality, augmented reality, 3D printing, pen-invent technology, robotics, coding, programming, and more.

 

Make & Collaborate, then SHARE!
This opportunity is hands-on experiences around the art of designing, handcrafting and constructing, in the spirit of collaboration, cooperative learning and teamwork. “Making Materials” featured in this portion of the event will include products from some of the leading vendors in science and technology such as littleBits, LEGO®, Magformers, Squigz, Strawbees and Brackitz.

 

The Geek Group will be presenting at the Mini Maker Faire.
The Geek Group will be presenting at the Mini Maker Faire.

Meet the Makers
Throughout the Mini Maker Faire, Makers, educators and authors dedicated to changing the way people learn, ideate, design, create, build and embrace the future will visit Barnes & Noble Grand Rapids to speak about the Maker Movement, present their creations and more featuring Quota International, The Geek Group and KDL Labs.

 

Barnes & Noble first renewed its retail partnership with Make:, publisher of Make: magazine and producer of Maker Faire,  back in 2015 to build on the huge success of last year’s inaugural retail Mini Maker Faire and continue Mini Maker Faire events in 2016. The renewed retail partnership reinforces both companies ongoing commitment to advancing tech literacy and bringing awareness to the Maker Movement, with special events, educational learning experiences and promotions throughout the year, all culminating in the second annual retail Mini Maker Faire in November.

 

There also will be an  expanded online presence at www.bn.com/makerfaire this year, which serves as a comprehensive “site within a site,” where Making, Learning and Doing can happen year-round. The site will feature articles, video content and Maker projects that will rotate regularly.

City of Wyoming police ask for public’s help in finding shooting suspect

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Hard News,

wyoming-300x216A shooting around 3 am Saturday in the 1000 block of Chicago Drive in Wyoming has Wyoming police asking for the public’s help in finding the suspect described as a black male in his mid-20’s, 6 feet tall with a stocky build.

 

Wyoming police say the suspect and a 24-year-old Grand Rapids man got into a fight on a rented limousine bus, which pulled over because of the fight. Two to three shots were fired from a handgun, striking the victim in the hand. The suspect and all other passengers fled the bus.

 

The victim was found four blocks from the bus. Police say he tried to run from and fight officers who tried to help him. He and all witnesses provided vague details about the incident. The victim was taken to an area hospital.

 

If you have information, contact the Wyoming Police Department at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

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Going Local: Al-Bos Eurocafe-Bakery

3-bottom, Food, Going Local, Local Business, , ,

albos3Joanne’s Portion

Joanne@wktv.org

 

Al-Bos Eurocafe-Bakery was one of the first restaurants I ran across in doing my search of local eateries to put in the Going Local hat.

 

The Albanian/Bosnian restaurant, located at 2930 Shaffer Ave. SE, is one that I actually have driven past several times, wondering what was inside, and Wednesday was the day I was finally going to find out. The inside was beautiful with dark wood accents and a mix of hi-tops and regular seating along with a bar.

 

The two-page menu is loaded with items, none of which I had ever tried, making it a little intimating even after our waiter came up and pointed out some of the top suggestions. I struggled in trying to make a decision and looking back, I believe I was afraid of moving out of my comfort zone. The waiter was so gracious in trying to help with a strong push for the stroganoff which had mashed potatoes. The mashed potatoes would have to be phenomenal for me to even try them, so that was a no. I finally decided to go with the Mesano Meso or the mixed grill plate. “Good choice! Good choice!” our waiter said. With visions of lots of food, I figured I could take the rest home to the family or have it for leftovers the next day.

 

albos4When the meal finally came, I was pleasantly surprised to see it was not a heaping plate of meat but a reasonable portion of samples from the various items offered at Al-Bos.

 

The plate included Chicken Raznjici, a chicken skewer; cevapcici, smaller grilled meat sausages made of lamb and beef; Kranjska Kobasica, a Carniolan sausage similar to kielbasa; pljeskavica, a beef patty, and a breaded chicken that I did not get the name of. Topping it off was Djuvec rice and french fries.

 

There is a person who wrote on Al-Bos’s Facebook page that they could eat the food “until they were put on a stretcher.” After tasting everything on my plate, I could totally relate. The food was amazing. It was properly seasoned without being overpowering bringing out the full flavor of the individual dishes. Basically a “wow” factor times ten and I loved every bite.

 

I did manage to save some for the family and watched sadly as my daughter saddled up next to my husband and began to steal everything off his plate. As my husband looked at the empty plate of which he got only a few small bites, I said, “We’ll go there. I promise.” After all, I believe there is a stroganoff with mashed potatoes calling my name.

 

Mike’s Portion

Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

 

With the camera on and the Going Local hat nestled in my left palm, I dove my right hand deep into the paper abyss to choose our next location. As my hand finagled through the options, it finally settled on one destination, Al-Bos Eurocafe-Bakery

 

Another week, and another brand new location I had never heard of. I’ll take ‘A New Experience’ for $200, Alex.

 

The authentic Albanian-Bosnian restaurant – located at 2930 Shaffer Ave. in Kentwood – has a menu loaded with my favorite thing in the whole wide world… Meat! A power-packed protein binge in always in my wheelhouse and Al-Bos had a selection that was sure to satisfy.

 

The menu was overpowering, not going to lie, and I don’t mean that as a negative. A whole host of meats and preparations filled the menu and left me slightly dumbfounded. Not only was I struggling to make a decision, I had difficulty pronouncing what I was even ordering. Thankfully our waiter was extremely helpful. He immediately sensed my indecisiveness and pointed me towards a few menu items I would enjoy.

 

img_2079It felt like a blind date and my waiter was the matchmaker. I couldn’t pronounce my meal’s name, and I wasn’t quite sure what she was going to look like, but I had to trust that there would be chemistry between us. My lunch date ended up being Stufed Pljeskavica-Punjena Pljeskavica. It consisted of stufed pljeskavica (beef), with feta cheese, onion, ajvar, djuvec rice, and french fries.

 

When the meal was set down in front of me, I was quickly reminded that true love was universal. We may not have spoken the same language, but body language needs no interpretation and my meal and I were on the same page.

 

The beef was tender and juicy and stuffed with feta cheese. It went down quickly as each bite was followed by an immediate need for another. The rice was delicious and had a more tempered flavor. It complimented the meat quite nicely. The french fries were an add-on seemingly from left field, but I’ll never complain about a batch of french fries and they went down seamlessly.

 

Fortunately for me, Joanne ordered what was essentially a buffet of meats and allowed me to try some. I was thankful to have two different sausages and devoured them like a ravenous lion.

 

In all, Al-Bos left a very fine first impression. With all of their menu options, I’d be a fool not to head back for another round.

Actors’ Theatre was no idiot when snatching up Green Day’s musical

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When Actors’ Theatre Grand Rapids opened sales for its 2016 – 2017 season, Executive Director Kyle Los admitted the tickets for “American Idiot” were the items most ticket buyers were seeking.

 

info“I guess it is not surprising,” Los said during a phone interview, “considering that Green Day just announced it would be touring and it has just been announced that the musical will be made into a movie.”

 

“American Idiot” was first a concept album, best described as a “punk rock opera,” that marked a major comeback for the American rock band Green Day. It was the seventh album recorded by the group which had become popular in the 1990s but by 2000 the group’s popularity had waned.

 

Inspired by The Who’s classic rock opera “Tommy,” Green Day created its own story around Jesus of Suburbia, an adolescent anti-hero who is divided between “rage and love.” Through its plot, the album expresses the disillusionment and dissent of a generation which came of age in a period shaped by many tumultuous events like the Iraq War.

 

The album sold 15 million copies, was number one in 19 countries, won the Grammy for Best Rock Album in 2005, and spanned such hits as “American Idiot,” “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” “Holiday,” Wake Me Up When September Ends,” and “Jesus of Suburbia.”

 

From there it was reworked into a musical with the story expanded from that of the concept album, centering on three disaffected young men, Johnny, Will, and Tunny. Johnny and Tunny flee a stifling suburban lifestyle and parental restrictions, while Will stays home to work out his relationship with his pregnant girlfriend, Heather. The former pair look for meaning in life and try out the freedom and excitement of the city. Tunny quickly gives up on life in the city, joins the military, and is shipped off to war. Johnny turns to drugs and finds a part of himself that he grows to dislike, has a relationship and experiences lost love. The musical gathered several more accolades including two Tony Awards and a 2011 Grammy for Best Musical Show Album.

 

“I think a lot of companies do not want to deal with the heron use that is in this production,” Los said as he reflected on how Actors’ was able to land the Michigan premiere of the musical which was described as “a fierce aesthetic charge” upon its opening in Broadway in 2010.

 

“While the story comes from 2004, which was during the George W. Bush administration, the story carries a strong to what is happening today especially during the current presidential election,” said Director Jolene Frankey. It speaks well to the disillusionment people – especially the younger generation – have with what is going on in today’s society.

 

For more information, visit actorstheatregrandrapids.org.

City of Wyoming, Metro Health & UCOM team up, provide healthy food

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Food, Health, Local Food, , ,

farmmarket-recipes-h-439x215There’s much more than just delicious vegetables and beautiful flowers to be gained by gardening — it can also improve your mental and physical well-being.

 

And although gardening season is just about over, it helps to know that there are three entities in the area that are actively involved in providing food to the community as well as patients and hospital staff.

 

Founded in 2014 and measuring approximately 1,380-sq.-ft. divided into 11 raised garden beds, the Community Garden is a partnership between United Church Outreach Ministry (UCOM), Metro Heath Hospital and the City of Wyoming. Ten of the beds measure 4×8’ and one bed is raised up on legs, positioned near the front gate of the garden allowing mobility impaired gardeners access to fresh, healthy produce.

 

The Community Garden’s goal is to introduce fresh, organic produce into gardeners’ and their families’ diets. Over 150 lbs of tomatoes, radishes, lettuces, broccoli, collard greens, kale, spinach, carrots and beets are donated to UCOM’s food pantry each year, with much more produced and shared between gardeners, friends and family.

 

In addition to fighting hunger in the Wyoming community, UCOM helps neighbors build healthy lifestyles beginning with the food they eat. The organization operates one of the largest pantries in the city, Client Choice Food Pantry, located at 1311 Chicago Dr. SW in Wyoming.

 

People living in the UCOM service area are able to access the pantry once a month and receive a three-day emergency supply of healthful and delicious food. Committed to personal empowerment, UCOM has encouraged people to select their own food for over seven years.

 

Starting October 1st, 2016, the food pantry is open to those in need on Mondays from 9 am-12 pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 am-3 pm, and Thursdays from 2-8 pm. Office hours are Monday through Thursday 9 am-5 pm.

 

Metro Health Garden works with its culinary team, master gardeners and community volunteers to grow fresh fruits and vegetables to be used in Metro Café’s patient and staff meals. The garden boasts an approximately 4,000-sq.-ft. area of rich, productive soil located east of the Hospital.

 

After being harvested, the produce is weighed and recorded. This information is used to track yields and productivity, as well as food costs saved by producing food on campus.

 

community-garden“Gardening helps relieve stress and improve mental health,” said Dr. Diana Dillman of Metro Health Jenison. “It is also a great way to get outside and get active. And of course the fresh fruits and vegetables are a healthy, tasty result of all that digging in the dirt.”

 

All-organic seeds and transplants are used to ensure that the produce is of peak flavor, nutritional value and integrity. A drip irrigation system allows efficient application of water, greatly reducing water waste.

 

Cooking classes, community presentations, and tours of the garden are open to the public and staff of Metro Health Hospital. Visit the Events Calendar or like us on Facebook for the most up-to-date information.  If you are interested in volunteering time in the garden, please contact volunteer services.

 

The garden also offers educational opportunities for youth and community members. The teaching garden is located behind Metro Health Hospital, in Wyoming. To register for these classes, or any of the other free or low-cost Live Healthy programs, visit Metrohealth.net or call 616.252.7117.

 

The Metro Health Garden is managed by Metro Health’s Culinary Team and Master Gardeners.

 

The ‘haunted’ Weekend Edition: Things to do Oct. 27 – 30

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, , , , , ,

With Halloween around the corner, we offer up a few haunted attractions to get you in the mood. So read on…if you dare.

forest-of-fear-bride-and-groom

Forest of Fear

Celebrating 15 years of haunting is the South Kent Jaycees’ Forest of Fear. Located in Caledonia at 8758 Paterson Ave. SE, just south of 84th Street, the outdoor attraction features a one-third mile path haunted by the undead, people you don’t want to meet in the dark and all sorts of other ghastly creatures. The attraction is open Friday and Saturday starting at dusk with the last ticket sold at 11 p.m. Tickets are $15 person with a a $5 per person Fast Pass available. For more information, visit, forstoffear.com.

 

Moonlight Manor

Moonlight Manor, 5420 Fieldstone Drive SW, Wyoming. Dusk until 10 p.m. Sunday and Monday, Oct. 30 and 31. $5 cash donation. Ages 10 and over

 

thehaunt

The Haunt

The Haunt is hosting its Sweet 16 and you are invited. Located at 2070 Waldorf NW, The Haunt is a 20,000-square-foot compound of fear…we mean fun…yeah, fun. Stumble through “Abandoned,” an outdoor attraction in which your only guide is the moonlight or holler your way through a half mile of heart-pounding haunted hallways. The Haunt states “chances are you’ll find your way out. But you won’t be the same.” The Haunt is open at dusk on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and will be open Oct. 31. Tickets are $21 with a speed ticket available for $31. For more information, visit the-haunt.com.

 

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New Salem Corn Maze

It’s all sweet and innocent during the day at the New Salem Corn Maze, but the witches and zombies come out when it turns dark. Located at 4516 24th St., Dorr, the New Salem Corn Maze offers three different activities, the Witch’s Woods, the Haunted Corn Maze, and the Zombie Attrack, where the tables are turned and you get to hunt the Zombies. Haunted attractions are open Friday and Saturday from dusk until 11 p.m. and Oct. 31 from dusk until 10 p.m. Tickets are usually $20 per activity with special pricing for the more you do, such as $30 for two activities, $40 for three, and $50 for four. (Note the Witch’s Woods has two trails.) Daytime activities are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with ticket pricing being $7/per person and free/three and under. For more information, visit witchesofnewsalem.com.

 

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Make your escape

Not a fan of creeping through dark woods to get the whatever scared out of you? Well for a different twist on thrill, how about using your wits to race against the clock to discover hidden clues and unlock challenges and secret compartments to get out of a locked room. You can head to the Great Escape Room Grand Rapids, located inside The Masonic Temple, 233 E. Fulton St. Prices vary with discounts for groups of 10 or more. Visit thegreatescaperoom.com.

Metro Health offers ideas for going green in your daily life

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Food, Health, How-To's, Recreation,
courtesy-of-metro-health
Courtesy of Metro Health

Incorporating green living practices into your daily life may be easier (and more fun) than you think. Here are just a few of Metro Health’s favorite ideas:

  • Go Vegetarian Once a Week (Meatless Mondays)
    One less meat-based meal a week helps the planet and your diet. For example: It requires 2,500 gallons of water to produce one pound of beef. You will also also save some trees. For each hamburger that originated from animals raised on rain forest land, approximately 55 square feet of forest have been destroyed. Find some meatless recipes featured by our Farm Markets and learn how to make your favorite recipes more heart healthy.
  • Rethink Bottled Water
    Nearly 90% of plastic water bottles are not recycled, instead taking thousands of years to decompose. Buy a reusable container and fill it with tap water, a great choice for the environment, your wallet and possibly your health. The EPA’s standards for tap water are more stringent than the FDA’s standards for bottled water.
  • Make a Rain Barrel
    Do your part to conserve water by taking a Rain Barrel Workshop. Rain barrels are effective in storm water usage and water quality. They can even help lower your water bill during those long, hot summer months.
  • Buy Local
    Consider the amount of pollution created to get your food from the farm to your table. Whenever possible, buy from local farmers or farmers’ markets, supporting your local economy and reducing the amount of greenhouse gas created when products are flown or trucked in. Click here to learn about the Metro Health Farm Markets.
  • Plant a Garden
    Planting a garden is a great way to enjoy fresh produce at home! We are proud to supply our Metro Café with fresh produce and herbs from the Metro Health Garden. We also partner with the United Church Outreach Ministry (UCOM) and the City of Wyoming to provide a Community Garden in a neighborhood where there is great need and limited access to healthy food. Watch for information about our gardens and tips on making your own garden come to life.
  • Community Clean-Up Day
    Metro Health Village is home to a number of walking and biking trails and Frog Hollow Park, making it a great escape for the whole family. So every spring, we host a day to spruce up Metro Health Village, making it ready for another season of family fun. Please join us – this may be the most fun you ever had picking up trash! (High school students can also earn Community Service Hours by participating.) Check Metro Health’s Live Healthy Calendar to learn more.

Killarney, town & country

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Travel, , , ,

3

By Lynn Strough

Travelynn Tales

 

The scenic route from Kenmare to Killarney includes winding roads through the Killarney National Park as well as rain and sun and rain again, mist and clouds, green green hills and even greener moss, soft as a blanket.

 

The lakes you pass are worth a stop. I could have stayed and gazed at the views for days.

 

7For a break from the car, I took a long hike to Torc waterfall, and spent a couple of hours on a rocky, muddy trail, up and down, mostly all to myself. You can park a 10-minute walk from the falls, but I preferred the scenic hike. At first the sun shone, the sky was blue, but by the time I got to the falls, the sky was gray and starting to sprinkle. The rest of my hike was through the rain, and I was glad I’d dressed for it.

 

It was one of my best Ireland experiences — like a fairy forest, all covered in moss — and I even saw a fairy ring, a short hollowed-out tree stump, where you could easily see fairies taking up residence. The ground was carpeted in lots of green shamrocks kissed by raindrops, too.

 

Ross Castle is a popular stop in Killarney. On my way into the castle, the sky was blue; an hour later it was gunmetal gray, but beautiful both ways. The only way to see the castle is to take the tour, which is quite interesting — one tall tower with a floor for dining, one for sleeping, one for parties. There’s a stone bench for a toilet with a slit to the outside a few floors below, where they hung their clothes over the waste as it produced ammonia which kept the lice out. No heat save a fire, it must’ve been so cold.

 

These castles were mostly protection against cattle raiding from other clans. A hole gaped in the floor, where boiling oil and rocks could be dumped on intruders’ heads and in the walls are slits for arrows and guns.

 

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My friend Soraya from Australia asked to meet up with me in Killarney as she was off on a journey of her own, so we toured Muckross house together. It’s a huge old house with beautiful furnishings, but when they described living conditions — especially how cold it was — it doesn’t sound like a very pleasant place to dwell. As we walked the manicured grounds near the lake, the rain suddenly came in torrents. Even with rain jackets and umbrellas we got soaked, especially when our umbrellas blew inside out. When you hear about Ireland getting a lot of rain, you can believe it.

 

Nearby Muckross Abbey is worth a stop as well and you can catch one of the popular horse drawn carts called jaunting cars, run by local jarvies.

 

14When the sky dried up a bit, we drove drove around the lake to the “Meeting of 3 Waters,” where you could take a short walk to a little cottage cafe for tea. The path was moss and heather heaven, the forest a blanket of green and lavender. The little stone bridge where the waters meet was very picturesque too.

 

On drier days, you can take a boat across.

 

Killarney itself is a bustling tourist town with more hotel rooms than any other Irish town or city, save for Dublin. It’s also full of shops, restaurants and pubs, and we enjoyed a couple of hearty meals, as well as some lively Irish music. A little girl of about 4 got out and danced an Irish jig for the crowd. Personally, I prefer smaller, less commercial Kenmare, but Killarney has a lot to offer, and is a great jumping off point for the Ring of Kerry.

 

1About Lynn Strough

Lynn is a 50+ free spirit whose incarnations in this life have included graphic designer, children’s book author and illustrator, public speaker, teacher, fine art painter, wine educator in the Napa Valley, and world traveler. Through current circumstances, she has found herself single, without a job or a home, and poised for a great adventure.

 

“You could consider me homeless and unemployed, but I prefer nomad and self-employed, as I pack up my skills and head off with my small backpack and even smaller savings to circumnavigate the globe (or at least go until the money runs out). Get ready to tag along for the ride…starting now!”

 

travelynnlogoAll images copyright Lynn Strough and Travelynn Tales

Reprinted with permission

Wyoming Department of Public Safety investigates homicide

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Hard News, , , , ,

wyoming police dept signAt approximately 5:50 a.m. this morning, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety was called to an apartment in the 1400 block of 44th Street SW on a check the welfare call. On arrival, officers located a 31-year-old female victim from Grand Rapids who was deceased inside the apartment. Investigators determine her death to be a homicide.

 

A male suspect who was also located inside the apartment was taken into custody as investigators believe that he is responsible for the overnight death of the victim. The identity of the victim is not being released pending notification of family.

 

The suspect was lodged at the Kent County Correctional Facility pending formal charges from the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office. His identity is being withheld pending arraignment in court.

 

The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

‘SPACE: A Journey to Our Future’ lifts off Nov. 5 at Gerald R. Ford Museum

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Education, Entertainment, Upcoming Events,

spaceajourneyFrom Nov. 5, 2016, through May 29, 2017, visitors to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, 303 Pearl St. NW in Grand Rapids will experience the sights and sounds of space exploration through live performances, easy-to-use interactive exhibits and state-of-the-art projection and audio technology.

 

The SPACE: A Journey to Our Future exhibition immerses visitors in the discoveries of the past and introduces them to today’s explorers who are shaping our destiny in the universe. Ride a lunar module simulator on a journey to the surface of the moon and visit a simulated scientific base camp on Mars.

 

Although SPACE is geared to young people ages 9 to 17, visitors of all ages will enjoy learning about space exploration.

 

The 12,000-square-foot exhibition is one of the largest touring space exhibits ever developed. Over the next four years, it will visit Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Cleveland, Denver, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, Philadelphia and San Francisco.

U.S. Senator Gary C. Peters will open the exhibit Nov. 10 at 7 pm.

Make your reservation at 616.254.0384 or at ford_events@nara.gov.

 

‘Día de los Muertos: Family Day’ is Oct. 30 at the Main Library

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Upcoming Events, ,

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Altars are on view Thursday, Oct. 27 to Tuesday, Nov. 1

 

Bring the whole family to the Grand Rapids Public Library — Main, 111 Library St. NE in Grand Rapids on Sunday, Oct. 30 and learn about the Day of the Dead holiday. You can explore the altars, decorate sugar skulls, have your face painted and do a craft. The day will include bilingual story times, live music, food from El Granjero, Lindo Mexico and Pan de Muerto provided by Panaderia Margo.

 

Family Day Schedule:  1:00 pm – 4:30 pm | Main Library

  • 1:30 pm  | Live music with Cabildo  | Ryerson Auditorium  | Level 3
  • 2:15 pm  | Bilingual Story Time  | Reading Room  | Level 3
  • 2:45 pm  | Live music with Cabildo  | Ryerson Auditorium  | Level 3
  • 3:25 pm  | Bilingual Story Time  | Reading Room  | Level 3
  • Ongoing  | Face Painting  | Children’s Library  | Level 2
  • Ongoing  | Sugar Skulls and Crafts  | Children’s Library  | Level 2
  • Ongoing (while supplies last)  | Food Sampling  | Fiction area  | Level 2
  • Ongoing  | Altar Viewing  | Ryerson Auditorium  | Level 3

 

See our previous story on Dia de los Muertos altars here.

Experience ‘E.T.’ as you never have before, Nov. 4-6 at DeVos Hall

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , ,

https://youtu.be/XIjW5zinXqg

 

Grand Rapids Pops presents E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial with a full-length screening of the entire movie, coupled with a live performance of the film score Nov. 4-6 at DeVos Performance Hall.

 

For the two or three people out there who’ve never seen E.T., the film tells the tale of a gentle alien who is accidentally stranded on Earth. Discovered and befriended by Elliott, who brings his new friend to his suburban California home, E.T. soon falls ill. But with the help of his brother and sister, Elliott manages to keep E.T. hidden from the government long enough for the visitor to return home.

 

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial was a huge hit when it was released in 1982. The film by Steven Spielberg quickly surpassed Star Wars as the top-grossing film of all time until it was topped 11 years later by Jurassic Park. The three films all have two things in common: All three are Spielberg films and all three have film scores composed by John Williams.

 

“He is my hero,” said Grand Rapids Symphony Principal Pops Conductor Bob Bernhardt, about the five-time Oscar-winning film composer of more than 100 film scores.

 

Williams uses the ethereal sounds of harps, celeste, other keyboards plus some polytonality, to suggest the separate but intertwined relationship between Elliot and E.T.

 

Grand Rapids Symphony’s Principal Harpist Elizabeth Wooster Colpean has been studying and practicing her part — some 90 pages of music — since May. Williams gives the harpist at least four or five major solo passages, including two scenes that are nearly an entire harp solo.

 

“I’ve noticed in the years I’ve watched John Williams’s films that he often uses the harp in very unusual ways,” Colpean said. “What makes these particular scenes challenging is three-fold: rhythms, technique and the fact that it’s so exposed.”

 

Grand Rapids Symphony Associate Conductor John Varineau leads the Grand Rapids Pops performance of the score that won Williams his third Oscar and his second for Best Original Music.

 

e-tThe inspiration for the 1982 film, which launched the career of actress Drew Barrymore, was an imaginary friend Spielberg created after his parents’ divorce in 1960. It has inspired young people of all ages ever since.

 

The final scenes of E.T. proved to be a milestone in Williams’s career and 40-year association with Spielberg. During the recording process, after Williams made several unsuccessful attempts to match his score to the film, Spielberg turned the film off and asked Williams to conduct the music for the scene as he would in a concert. Instead of the usual practice of recording the soundtrack to coincide with the final edit of the film, Spielberg re-edited the finale to match the music.

 

One of the most popular and successful American orchestral composers of the modern age, Williams’s films also include such dramas as Schindler’s List and Saving Private Ryan as well as comedies including Home Alone and The Witches of Eastwick. Besides his five Academy Awards, Williams has received 50 Oscar nominations — most recently for Star Wars: The Force Awakens — making him the Academy’s most-nominated living person and the second-most nominated person in its history.

 

In January 1980, Williams was named Conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra, after which he hired Bernhardt as a guest conductor for the Boston Pops. Though Williams retired in December 1993, Bernhardt continues as a recurring guest conductor for the venerable orchestra.

 

Bernhardt will be back in Grand Rapids for the Wolverine Worldwide Holiday Pops with five performances featuring the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus, Youth Chorus, and Embellish Handbell Ensemble, December 1st to 4th in DeVos Performance Hall.

 

Tickets

See the movie that won four Academy Awards — including Best Original Score — at 8 pm Friday and Saturday, Nov. 4 and 5, and at 3 pm Sunday, Nov. 6 in DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

 

Tickets start at $18 and are available at the GRS ticket office, weekdays 9am to 5pm at 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, (located across from the Calder Plaza), or by calling 616.454.9451 x 4. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum.)

 

Tickets are also available at the DeVos Place box office, weekdays 10am to 6pm or on the day of the concert beginning two hours prior to the performance. Tickets also may be purchased online at GRSymphony.org.

 

Full-time students of any age are able to purchase tickets for only $5 on the night of the concert by enrolling in the GRS Student Passport program. This is a MySymphony360-eligible concert.

SCA’s 4th annual ‘Saugatuck Shorts’ film competition screens Nov. 5

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, ,

EVENT TICKETSExperience the magic of film during a night of friendly competition from professional, amateur and student filmmakers from around the state.

 

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts (SCA) (400 Culver Street) is hosting its 4th annual film festival, the Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition on November 5th at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $10/students and $20/adults. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please visit sc4a.org or call 269.857.2399.

 

The jury-selected films compete for cash prizes. The audience at the competition will select their favorite film of the night, and the film with the most votes will receive a prize of $1,000.

 

“The competition is unique in that it requires a Michigan ‘flavor’ in the submission,” said Kristin Armstrong, SCA Executive Director. “For instance, a film could be shot in Michigan, include Michigan in the storyline, have a Michigan filmmaker or actor – something that adds a note of Michigan to the entry.”

 

This year, actor, producer and director Joel Paul Reisig will co-host the event. Reisig has produced such films as Horse Camp, Rodeo Girl,Small Town Santa, A Horse for Summer, American Scream King and many more. Reisig graduated from Hope College and is a entrepreneur who, in addition to his other job titles, also conducts seminars and workshops on “Be Your Own Hollywood.”

 

The money raised from the competition will go to benefit the SCA’s year-round free and low-cost programs.

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The SCA has long included film as an art medium in its programming; it hosts a yearly Children’s Film Festival and in 2011 the locally produced and focused film Everyday People debuted to a sold-out audience. Most recently, the SCA served as the venue for WGVU Public Media’s Hometown Stories project.

 

The Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition event will air on WKTV television.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport breaks ground for Viewing Park expansion

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, ,
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Courtesy of Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

Over the years the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) Viewing Park — at 4820 Kraft Avenue SE, just north of 52nd — has become a popular spot for area workers to take a lunch break or for families to pack a picnic and enjoy a free afternoon spotting planes. The park is like catnip to aviation enthusiasts and photographers. And in July 2015, Grand Rapids Kids Magazine voted the park the “Best Kept Secret in Grand Rapids”.

 

As its popularity has grown, so has the need for an updated facility. Now the  Airport Viewing Park is getting a makeover.

 

GFIA, in partnership with the Cascade Community Foundation (CCF), broke ground Oct. 24 on the Airport Viewing Park Project, a $1.12 million renovation that will add a pavilion, permanent restrooms, new seating areas, expanded parking spaces and more.

 

grf-viewing
Courtesy of Gerald R. Ford International Airport

“We have heard over the years how enjoyable this viewing park is to our community, and we are happy to invest in our Airport Viewing Park to make it even better for future generations,” said GFIA Acting President & CEO Phil Johnson.

 

The Airport contributed $675,000 to the project, with the balance funded through CCF’s “Community is Our Middle Name” Capital Campaign.

 

“We are grateful for the community support that was essential to the success of the Cascade Community Foundations ‘Community is our Middle Name’ campaign,” said campaign co-chair Sheila VanZile. “The project couldn’t have happened without the significant support of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and their amazing team.”

 

After construction is completed, parking spaces will nearly double from 57 current spaces to 102 in the renovated lot. Additionally, there will be four bus parking spaces to accommodate school and tour groups. Guests will have more than double the seating of the old park with new picnic tables and benches, and a permanent restroom, new signage and more trash receptacles are being added.

 

Mathison & Mathison Architects designed the new Viewing Park, and contractor Owen Ames Kimball is the construction team.

 

The Airport Viewing Park should remain open during construction, but parking will be limited and – should closings occur – they will be posted via the Airport’s social media accounts. More photos and information on the project can be found here.

‘Tis the season for craft shows

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , , ,

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Halloween has not even passed but the holiday craft show season has been in full swing for about two weeks.

 

The shows are great for gift inspirations or just hang with friends and checking out the goodies. Below, we have compiled some local and popular area shows you might want to consider visiting if you have the chance.

 

 

Oct. 29

Christmas Bazaar: Breton Ridge, 2772 Pfeiffer Woods Dr., Grand Rapids. 9 am – 3 p.m.

 

Nov. 4 — 5

Beneath the Wreath, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $5. www.juniorleaguegr.com

 

Nov. 5

Arts and Crafts Show: Duncan Lake Middle School, 9757 Duncan Lake Ave., Caledonia. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. http://www..caledoniasourcecenter.org

 

Nov. 5

Jenison Christian School Fall Arts and Crafts Show: Jenison Christian School, 7726 Graceland, Jenison. 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. www.jenisonchristian.org

 

Nov. 5

Arts, Crafts, and Bake Sale: St. Paul’s Church, 2560 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. More than 20 exhibitors with breakfast and lunch.

 

Nov. 11

Holiday Gift Show and Lunch: Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, 701 W. Cloverdale Rd., Hastings. 11 am-3 pm.  Seating times are 11 a.m. – noon; 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.; 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Call 269-721-4190

 

Nov. 11 — 12 

West Michigan Potters Guild 33rd Annual Fall Show and Sale: The Cultural Center at St. Nicholas, 2250 E. Paris Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. Noon – 9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday. www.westmichiganpottersguild.com

 

Nov. 12

Byron Center Fine Arts Boosters Annual Craft Fair: Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame Ave SW, Byron Center. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Entrance fee: $2. 616-878-6600

 

Nov. 12

Christmas Holiday Craft Show: St. Mary Magdalen Breitenstein Center, 1213 52nd Street SE, Kentwood. 10 am-3 pm. www.stmmagdalen.org

 

Nov. 12 – 13

Immaculate Heart of Mary Holiday Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., 1935 Plymouth Road SE.

 

Nov. 13 – Dec. 23

LowellArts! Holiday Market: LowellArts!, 149 S. Hudson St., Lowell. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Free. 897-8545

 

Nov. 22

Winter Bazaar: Dorr Township Library, 1804 Sunset Dr., Dorr. 9 am. 616-681-9678

 

Nov. 22

3rd Annual Winter Bazaar: Hopkins District Library, 118 E. Main St., Hopkins. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.hopkins.llcoop.org

 

Nov. 27

Grand Valley Armory, 1200 44th St. SW, Wyoming, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

Nov. 28 – Dec. 20

Holiday Walk and Market: W.K. Kellogg Manor House, 3700 E. Gull Lake Dr., Hickory Corners. Fridays and Saturdays, noon-5 pm. $7/adult and $5/senior & student. 269-671-2416

 

Nov. 29

Wyoming Band Boosters Craft Shows: Wyoming High School, 1350 Praire Parkway SW, Wyoming. 9 a.m. – 3 pm.

 

Dec. 3 – 4

Holiday Artists’ Market at Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, 41 Sheldon Blvd. SE, 5 – 9 p.m.

 

Dec. 4

Kentwood Community Church, 1200 60th St. SE, Kentwood, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., more than 90 crafters, bake sale, lunch, with Purchasing with a Purpose room.

 

Dec. 6

Rogue River Artisans Fine Art & Craft Holiday Sale: Lowell High School, 11700 Vergennes, Lowell. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.lowellholidayartshow.com

Local clerks provide tips on how to avoid long lines on Election Day

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming

By Dan Kasunic, City of Kentwood

Kelli VandenBerg, City of Wyoming

Karen Brower, City of East Grand Rapids

The Nov. 8 presidential election is just around the corner. Voter turnout across Michigan is expected to be well above average – meaning the polling locations will be very busy places for most of the day.

 

Absentee BallotCity clerks from East Grand Rapids, Kentwood and Wyoming are providing the following tips to make Election Day go smoothly:

 

Avoid peak times: If possible, you may want to vote from 9 to 11 a.m. or 1 to 4 p.m. when the lines are usually shorter.

 

Be informed: The ballot is very long and has two sides, with more than 90 candidates running for 22 offices as well as ballot proposals to consider in most precincts. You can download a sample ballot at www.michigan.gov/vote by looking up your voter registration and then viewing your ballot. This will allow you to look everything over ahead of time and do any research you would like. If you print the sample ballot to record your choices and bring it to the polls to record your votes onto an official ballot, be sure to keep it in your purse or pocket until you are in the privacy of the voting booth.

 

“We often find the bottleneck in the precinct is that all the booths are full and people have to wait until a booth is open for us to issue their ballot,” said East Grand Rapids City Clerk Karen Brower.  “Knowing ahead of time which offices are being decided and reading over the language on the proposals means less time in the voting booth and better moving lines for those waiting.”

 

Be prepared: Make sure you know where your polling location is so you don’t wait in line at the wrong precinct only to have to go somewhere else.  If you’re not sure if you’re registered, or to find your polling location, check www.michigan.gov/vote or call your local government office.

 

Poll workers will ask you to show photo ID or sign an affidavit stating you don’t have an ID. If you have your ID with you, having your ID out of your wallet and ready to present can help make things go quicker.
“Knowing where your polling location is before Election Day will make it a lot easier when you go to vote,” said City of Kentwood Clerk Dan Kasunic. “The website makes it easy to find your polling location. You would hate to show up at the wrong polling location and wait in line to only be told you need to go to another location.”

 

mail-in-ballot-17738476_108900_ver1-0_320_240Consider voting absentee: Absentee ballots are available now at your local municipality office. Ballots can be mailed until Saturday, Nov. 5. On Monday, Nov. 7, you can vote in person at your local clerk’s office until 4 p.m.  Michigan law allows you to vote absentee if:

  • You are 60 years of age or older
  • You expect to be absent from the community in which you are registered for the entire time the polls are open on Election Day
  • You are physically unable to attend the polls without the assistance of another
  • You cannot attend the polls because of the tenets of your religion
  • You have been appointed an election precinct inspector in a precinct other than the precinct where you reside
  • You cannot attend the polls because you are confined to jail awaiting arrangement or trial

 

“I would highly recommend voting absentee to anyone who qualifies,” said City of Wyoming Clerk Kelli VandenBerg. “Absentee voters will avoid potentially long lines and will also be able to spend as much time as needed to read through, understand and vote for each question on the ballot without feeling rushed.”

 

You can receive your ballot early and vote prior to Election Day. All absentee ballots are kept sealed in their envelopes at your clerk’s office until Election Day when they are opened and fed through official tabulators so that your votes are counted. You can download the absentee ballot application form at  http://www.michigan.gov/documents/sos/AVApp_535884_7.pdf or stop by your local municipality.

 

If you have any questions about voting, registering to vote, polling locations or anything else, contact your local clerk’s office – Wyoming Clerk office is 616-530-7296 and Kentwood Clerk office is 616-554-0730 or visit www.michigan.gov/sos.

Going Local: Daniele’s Pizza, the D-Burger Edition

3-bottom, Food, Going Local, Local Business, WKTV Projects, , , ,

danielles4Mike’s Slice

Mike.DeWitt@wktv.org

Three months ago we drew Daniele’s Pizzeria out of the Going Local hat and gave it the full treatment. There was a Facebook Live video of the drawing, an order of scrumptious pizza and cheesy bread, and a Friday write-up for the masses to consume.

 

However, something caught my eye three months ago while diving into the Daniele’s menu that caused me to pause and think “Is this love?” It was a masterful creation of carbs and grease called the ‘D-Burger’. A half pound slab of sausage topped with jalapeno and onions and sandwiched between two 7-inch pepperoni pizzas. A taste bud’s dream and an artery’s worst nightmare.

 

An executive decision was quickly made to add the D-Burger from Daniele’s into the hat. Fate would decide when the delicious monstrosity would make its humble abode in my belly, all I had to do was wait. So, you could imagine my excitement when the D-Burger was drawn out of the hat this week. While I tried to contain it, it was to no avail, Joanne and Victoria could see that I was smitten. My only question was, “do I call now or wait three days? I don’t want to seem needy or too available.”

 

Joanne made me wait until Wednesday per our ‘rules’ for Going Local. Rules don’t matter when love is in the air. Time is a physical construct that can’t measure longing. Does it really matter if it’s one minute or 48 hours? When one second feels infinite, it’s truly unbearable.

 

Somehow, through sheer will and grit, I made it to Wednesday.

 

After driving to Daniele’s Pizzeria – now at a new location located at 1429 60th Street, Grand Rapids – and picking up the goods, the sheer girth of the box caught me slightly off guard. A quick peek inside showed a greasy pepperoni pizza, what was underneath would stay a mystery until I returned back to WKTV to share with the staff.

 

danielles1As my teeth sunk into the burger, fireworks went off  in my head. The pizza, sausage, pizza trifecta was a sensation with every bite. Juicy, salty, and carbo-loaded for the ultimate eating experience. The jalapeno added a slight kick of heat that triggered the taste buds and took them on an unexpected roller coaster ride of flavor.

 

The D-Burger was shared between five of us at the station as none of us wanted to keel over of a heart attack after eating too much. However, death by eating a D-Burger might not be the worst way to go…

 

Joanne’s Slice

joanne@wktv.org

 

In full disclosure, I have to state this upfront: I am not a fan of sausage on a pizza. I prefer my pizzas to be simple, usually with just pepperoni or, if making them at home, with green pepper, onion, ham, and pepperoni. Sausage just does not make the list.

 

danielles2With that said, when Mike talked about the D-Burger at Danielle’s, I assumed it was a burger — as in hamburger — between two 7-inch pizzas. Once I took a bite, I quickly realized it was sausage, which only made sense for a pizza-style burger. And the sausage was very good, very favorable, and even though sausage is not my thing, I have to give kudos to Danielle’s for thinking outside of the box in creating the D-Burger. I did try the pizza separate and it was amazing. The bread was fresh, the sauce was perfect and it was just the type of pizza I would enjoy.

 

So while the D-Burger won’t make it on my repeat list (I do encourage everyone to at least try it and make their own decision) I will be heading over to Danielle’s Pizza’s new location at 1429 60th St. SE for a pizza…or two, as I do need to share with the family.

 

The LowellArts Players presents ‘The Mousetrap’ by Agatha Christie

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , ,

40f9a8_eb57b6378bd54e038de95437fc3d13f6mv2_d_1641_1263_s_2The world’s longest running play, The Mousetrap, is coming to the historic Strand Theater, now called Larkin’s Other Place, at 315 W. Main St., Lowell, MI on Oct. 28, 29, 30 and Nov. 4, 5 and 6.

 

Performed by the LowellArts Players, the classic who-dunnit play by the foremost mystery writer of her time, Agatha Christie is set at the Monkswell Manor Guest House where a group of strangers is stranded during a major thunderstorm, one of whom is a murderer. The suspects include the couple who run the house, a spinster, an architect, a retired Army major, a magistrate and a strange little man. A policeman no sooner arrives when a murder occurs.

 

The play is offered as Dinner Theater with a cash bar on all dates. Dinner theater begins at 6:30 pm on Friday and Saturday evenings (Oct. 28 & 29 and Nov. 4 & 5), show-only tickets are available with a 7:30 pm start time. Sunday Matinee Dinner theater begins at 1:30 pm (Oct. 30 & Nov. 6), show-only tickets are available with a 2:30 pm start time. Advanced tickets are required for Dinner Theater. Show tickets are $14 to $18. Dinner is an additional $13. Purchase tickets online here or by calling 616.897.8545, or at the LowellArts office, 149 S. Hudson St., Lowell, Tues-Fri 10 am-5 pm.

 

The Mousetrap first opened as a short radio play broadcast in 1947 called Three Blind Mice, in honor of Queen Mary and the play has run continuously in London for 60 years. The murderer’s identity is divulged near the end of the play in an unusual twist ending.

 

40f9a8_7270bcc9daa745ebb356cf1884d62bb9mv2

By tradition, at the end of each performance, audiences are asked not to reveal the identity of the killer to anyone outside the theater to ensure that the end of the play is not spoiled for future audiences.

 

LowellArts has been connecting regional artists and audiences through visual and performing arts in the greater Lowell community since 1977. Annual programming includes The Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concert Series with 10 live outdoor concerts on the Flat River Thursday nights throughout the summer. The Fallasburg Fall Festival for the Arts outdoor two-day art fair showcasing the works of over 100 artists with over 25,000 attendees. Three multi-weekend community theater productions by the LowellArts Players. And, six visual arts exhibitions including the LowellArts Holiday Artists Market and the West Michigan Art Competition.

lowell-arts

Grand Rapids Comic Con launches as nation celebrates Wonder Woman

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It’s a bird, it’s a plane…it’s Wonder Woman Day.

 

Friday, Oct. 21, has been named Wonder Woman Day in honor of the first female superhero who marks her 75th anniversary. Wonder Woman has been named the U.N. Honorary Ambassador for empowerment of woman and girls. An event celebrating the special day has been planned in New York and to top off the event Gal Gadot and Lynda Carter will be present. In fact, expect to see more of Carter on television as she is scheduled to appear as president in a few upcoming episodes of “Supergirl.”

 

Even the post office is celebrating the 75th anniversary with a new line of forever stamps featuring Wonder Woman.

 

And expect to see a few Wonder Womans wandering Grand Rapids this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21 – 23, as the Grand Rapids Comic-Con roles into town at DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW.

 

Looks like there is a full list of events and celebrities. For those “Hunger Gamse” fans Bruno Gunn will be attending along side Robin Shelby from “Ghostbusters 2.” Also attending are Denise Crosby, best known for Security Chief Tasha Yar on “Star Trek: The Next Generation”  and most recently seen in “The Walking Dead,” and Sean Maher of “Firefly,” “Arrow,” and “Con Man.” Also two red Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Steve Cardenas and Austin St. John, along with several of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and other celebrities are scheduled to attend this year’s Grand Rapids Comic Con.

 

There will be lots going on in the exhibit hall from demonstrations to various products and items for sale. Artists will be on hand to talk about their work, sell prints and for autographs.

 

There will be two exhibitions, one from the Wes Shank Museum, featuring items form Shank’s private collection of props from vintage science fiction movies, and the Hall of Heroes Museum, from Elkhart, Indiana, that will have several items on display including the motorcycle from “Ghost Rider,” the screen used ring worn from the 2011 “Green Lantern,” along with displays of the Golden Age Marvel and DC comic books and lots of superhero toys form days gone by.

 

There will be gaming, discussions, photo ops and presentations by celebrities and lots more. For a complete schedule, visit grcomiccon.com.

Despite change in ownership, it is business as usual at The Golf Course at Thornapple Pointe

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, , , , , ,

10-behind

 

When 2017 rolls in in a few months, The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe will have new owners but beyond that customers will see little else change at the popular public golf course located at 7211 48th St. SE.

 

Earlier this week, Watermark Properties announced it has formed a new legal entity to operate Thornapple Pointe and will take over on Jan. 1.

 

“It really is going to be business as usual,” said Chris Sobieck, who is the current general manager and PGA professional at Thornapple Pointe. Sobieck has been with Thornapple Pointe for 16 years and will continue to serve as its general manager along with overseeing Watermark’s golf and sports operations.

 

“Other than the ownership changing, everything is going to keep going like it has been,” Sobieck said. Thornapple Pointe will remain a public course and banquet facility under the new ownership, and will operate separately from Watermark’s private course model.

 

Owners of Watermark Properties or The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe knew each other, according to Sobieck. Neither were looking to sell or buy but as things fell into place, it became a positive situation and made sense for everyone, he said.

 

The Golf Course at Thornapple Pointe is the first public golf course in the Watemark Properties portfolio. The company owns four private golf courses, Cascade’s Watermark Country Club, Caledonia’s StoneWater Country Club, Jenison’s Sunnybrook Country Club, and Grand Rapids’ Thousand Oaks, along with seven restaurants including the stand-alone Gravity Taphouse Grille.

 

According to a statement from Watermark Properties, “Thornapple Pointe is regarded as one of the best public golf courses in West Michigan and has been very successful providing a championship caliber, daily fee course in great condition. It has continually improved its offering over the years and provided outstanding service and professionalism with a commitment to excellence. Because of its success, Watermark has no intention of making any changes to its operations.”

 

5-green“Our owners have a deep commitment to seeing golf continue to grow and thrive in West Michigan,” said Watermark Properties CEO Craig Smith, who added that nationally the sport of golf has had some struggles in terms of growth. In West Michigan, golf has continued its popularity with a number of options throughout West Michigan available, Smith said.

 

“With the addition of Thornapple Pointe, it strengthens our commitment to the golf community in West Michigan.”

 

Smith said the company hopes it is sending the message that Watermark Properties not only wants to provide a variety of options to the golfing community but that they are enjoyable, affordable, and offer great conditions for all levels.

 

Designed by Ann Arbor-based William Newcombe & Associates, The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe was built in 1997 and overlooks the Thornapple River. The course has received positive reviews on Golf Advisor with “Golf Magazine” stating that it is a “unique 18-hole championship track incorporates Star Wars technology into every round and has literally taken golf in this area to another level.”

Positively Positano, Amalfi Coast

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Food, Travel, , , ,

15

 

By Lynn Strough

Travelynn Tales

 

Positano and the Amalfi coast are gorgeous, no question about that. But they have price tags to match. So what is a budget traveler to do? After a little research, I discovered that you can stay in tiny Piano de Sorrento and take buses and trains that link the pricier towns together at a fraction of the cost. And even better, I got to stay in a super affordable hostel in an old Monastery, with bells chiming, lovely staff and some of the nuns still hanging around.

 

Sisters Hostel is only a few minutes’ walk from nice swimmable beaches, and little trattorias, where you can dine to your heart’s content, on pasta, fresh seafood, fig torte… You can still get a $5 pizza fresh out of the oven at family run places, where Mama and her daughter will serve you while Papa, who resembles a benign Godfather, looks on…

 

24A short walk to the train station, and an even shorter train ride, will take you to Sorrento, where you can catch a scenic bus along the coast down to Positano and Amalfi. My bus was full, but that didn’t stop dozens more people from climbing aboard and squeezing in, so I followed suit. It was standing room only, so I stood, jam-packed in the aisle on the most winding road I’ve ever seen with sheer drops down to the sea dotted with what looked like toy boats. I could see the driver — he was talking on the phone, holding the phone to his ear with his right hand, while driving that huge bus on those snake-like roads at the edge of precipitous cliffs.

 

And then he started talking with his left hand, as Italians are prone to do. Um, wait, if his right hand is holding a phone to his ear and his left hand is fluttering about in the air speaking sign language…who’s steering the bus? On top of all that, the older Italian woman next to me kept trying to show him a magazine. But we made it to Positano.

 

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Positano is positively beautiful, with colorful buildings spilling down the steep hillside to the sea. Stop on your walk down from the bus stop for a frozen lemon slush, the ice cold sweet and sour taste is divine. Lots of fun clothing, jewelry, ceramic and shoe shops, along with art galleries and stands, line the way.

 

And the beach, dotted with neon umbrellas, beckons you into the azure sea for a swim. The water is the perfect temperature, cool enough to be refreshing, but warm enough to feel like silk. I floated and swam, got out, heated up and did it again. The views from the water are astonishing — rainbow houses stacked like blocks form a giant triangle up the steep hillside.

 

If you’re hungry, plenty of restaurants wait nearby, most of them with a view… As I was taking a photo of my wine glass with the umbrellas and the sea in the background, one of the young employees called out, “Wait!” and he brought me a little bowl of peanuts with a small silver spoon and arranged it near my wine glass for my picture.21
Suddenly, while I was swimming, a storm blew in. And I do mean suddenly! One minute it’s sunny and lots of people are frolicking in the water, the next minute thunder is rumbling and a huge gray line of clouds is rapidly advancing on us, waves kicked up and umbrellas tipping over.

 

I stumbled out of the sea (it’s very rocky and sharp on the soles of your feet), and as I struggled to slip my shirt on, my lounge chair blew over. Dozens of us raced up the beach towards the row of restaurants. Huge jags of lightning streaked from heaven to sea, but the sky only dropped a few specks of rain. As hordes of tourists swarmed up the narrow zigzagging streets that climb the hill, I figured the bus would be packed, with everyone leaving at once.

 

I was right, the street was lined with dozens of people waiting. Luckily, despite the thunder and lightning, the rain held off. I happened to be standing next to a lovely lady from South Africa, and we kept each other company, comparing travel notes, while we waited a half hour for the next bus. We could tell not everyone would fit on — the bus was coming from Amalfi, and the seats were already full. When the bus stopped and the doors opened, the crowd surged forward, a mini-stampede.

 

Complaints were heard in English, with American accents, “Hey, wait! We’ve been waiting here 45 minutes, you just got here, that’s not fair!” as newcomers pushed ahead to the front of the line. Cultural differences — in America you get skewered for line-cutting, here it’s a way of life. My South African friend and I pushed ahead with the rest of the Italians, and although we stood for the whole hour ride to Sorrento, at least we got on the bus.

 

And just in time, it appeared, as the heavens opened up and the rain poured down. It grew even darker and the winding road looked like a slick black snake. Heat wrapped around us, and motion sickness threatened, but I managed to keep it in check. The drive took longer than it should have, as a middle-aged German couple couldn’t figure out which stop was theirs, so they kept ringing the stop button over and over, then not getting off. But eventually we made it, just in time for me to catch the last train back to Piano. (Sorry,  no windstorm disaster photos.)

 

It’s another hour ride further down the coast to Amalfi from Positano, though I have to say to me, Amalfi is not as nice; it’s much more commercial and more expensive. The beach is kind of a carnival, basted with tons of bodies, but people looked like they were having fun. It depends on what you’re looking for.

 

17About Lynn Strough

Lynn is a 50+ free spirit whose incarnations in this life have included graphic designer, children’s book author and illustrator, public speaker, teacher, fine art painter, wine educator in the Napa Valley, and world traveler. Through current circumstances, she has found herself single, without a job or a home, and poised for a great adventure.

 

“You could consider me homeless and unemployed, but I prefer nomad and self-employed, as I pack up my skills and head off with my small backpack and even smaller savings to circumnavigate the globe (or at least go until the money runs out). Get ready to tag along for the ride…starting now!”

 

travelynnlogoAll images copyright Lynn Strough and Travelynn Tales

Reprinted with permission

GRCC and GVSU present the first Tournées Film Festival 2016

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Upcoming Events, ,

d93c8d84-b3cc-8980-d3eeaba2ac853c39_oAn upcoming film festival collaboration between Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) and Grand Valley State University (GVSU) comes to downtown Grand Rapids on Oct. 26 & 27 and Nov. 3 & 4.

 

GRCC’s and GVSU’s French programs both received a grant to put together the Tournées Film Festival which begins next week and will take place on both campuses —  at GVSU’s Loosemore Auditorium and GRCC’s Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology Center Auditorium, Room 168, ATC. Films may contain adult content.

 

Admission for all films is FREE.

 

Here’s the lineup:

  • Valley of Love (2015) Wed., Oct. 26, 6:15 pm, GVSU Loosemore Auditorium
  • Phantom Boy (2015) Thurs., Oct. 27, 7 pm, GVSU Loosemore Auditorium — Meet the director!
  • La Spienza (2014) Italian/French, Wed., Nov. 2, 6:30 pm, GVSU Loosemore Auditorium
  • Chocolat (1988), Thurs., Nov. 3, 6 pm, GRCC ATC Auditorium
  • Jauja (2014) Spanish/Danish/French, Fri., Nov. 4, 4 pm, GRCC ATC Auditorium
  • Le Grand Homme (2014), Fri., Nov. 4, 7 pm, GRCC ATC Auditorium

Tournées Film Festival is made possible with the support of the Cultural Services of the
French Embassy in the U.S., the Centre National du Cinéma et de l’Image Animée (CNC), the French American Cultural Fund, Florence Gould Foundation and Highbrow Entertainment.

 

All participants are welcome. Those in need of accommodations for films showing at GRCC, please contact Language and Thought at 616.234.3544; for films showing at GVSU call Modern Languages and Literatures at 616.331.3203.

 

 

‘I want to be capable to speak’

3-bottom, Area Education, Education, Non-Profits, Our Cities, , , ,

Literacy Classes Help Parents Help Their Children

 

Moms study English at the North Godwin English literacy class
Moms study English at the North Godwin English literacy class

By: Erin Albanese — School News Network

 

Esperanza Mercado wants her children — kindergartner Coral, first-grader Yra, and fourth-grader Adrian — to have big goals. “I want them to get their master’s degrees,” she said.

 

“I didn’t get much education,” she said while attending an English literacy class at North Godwin Elementary School. Mercado’s formal education ended in sixth grade. An immigrant from Mexico, she moved to the United States more than 20 years ago.

 

She’s attending the intermediate-level class, offered by the Literacy Center of West Michigan and led by Americorps instructors, for two hours twice a week to improve her English-speaking and reading skills. At North and West Godwin elementary schools, where more than 40 percent of families are English-language learners, basic and intermediate classes are offered all school year long. Grand Rapids Public Schools also offers the program.

 

Mercado already speaks basic English, but wants to build confidence.

 

Parents study the usage of 'will go' and 'am going to go' during class
Parents study the usage of ‘will go’ and ‘am going to go’ during class

“I want to be able to communicate with people who speak English,” she explained. “I want to help my kids with their homework, attend meetings with no helper interpreting. I want to be capable to speak without someone else to help me.”

 

The fact classes are held at school is ideal, said Sarah Schantz, North Godwin Kent School Services Network community school coordinator.

 

“Having it here makes it a lot easier,” Schantz said. “It’s right after school starts. Parents stay for class after dropping off students. Having them here gives them the extra opportunity to stay after class and help out with things that they like to.”

 

The class helps parents connect in other ways too. It’s for all non-native English speakers, not just Spanish-speaking.

 

“It helps them be able to communicate with us, with their students, with helping them with homework,” ” Schantz said.

 

Helping Students Read Proficiently

 

Marti Hernandez, director of the Family Literacy Program at the Literacy Center of West Michigan, said the program serves a huge need as the Hispanic population continues to grow.

 

Americorps instructor Kari Moss teaches English
Americorps instructor Kari Moss teaches English

The program’s aims are tied to third-grade literacy, helping parents help their children be fluent readers by then, said Hernandez, a former principal at Burton Middle School. “Our goal is to help the parents learn English so they can be more involved in their child’s education, and be more informed on what’s going on in their child’s school and what the goals are for their child,” Hernandez said.

 

“It also helps them with employability,” she added. “You need to have some sort of English in order to get a job and to just survive.”

 

Parents also learn the importance of promoting literacy in the home. Monthly Family Activity Nights are offered for families.

 

“I am so pleased to see so many of my parents participating in our English Literacy classes,” said North Godwin Principal Mary Lang. “They are so committed to learning the language so they are able to better support their children through their educational process.”

 

Participant Maria Nunoz, mom to kindergartener Gadiel, sixth-grader Adan and seventh-grader Lorenzo, said she’s continuing to study English so she can better help them in school.

 

“I help Gadiel with homework, and the alphabet pronunciation,” she said.

 

Be sure to check out School News Network for more stories about our great students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan!

‘Iris van Herpen: Transforming Fashion’ exhibit at GRAM Oct. 23-Jan. 15

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Refinery Smoke, Dress, July 2008: Untreated woven metal gauze, cow leather, cotton, Groninger Museum. Photo by Bart Oomes, No 6 Studios
Refinery Smoke, Dress, July 2008: Untreated woven metal gauze, cow leather, cotton, Groninger Museum. Photo by Bart Oomes, No 6 Studios

 

Hacking Infinity, Shoes, 2015. In collaboration with Noritaka Tatehana and 3D Systems Laser-cut cow leather, 3-D printed photopolymer, and stereolithography resin Collection of the designer Photograph ©NORITAKA TATEHANA
Hacking Infinity, Shoes, 2015. In collaboration with Noritaka Tatehana and 3D Systems Laser-cut cow leather, 3-D printed photopolymer, and stereolithography resin
Collection of the designer
Photograph ©NORITAKA TATEHANA

Fashion takes center stage at the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) as more than 50 sculptural masterpieces by Dutch designer Iris van Herpen make their Midwest debut this fall. Since interning for legendary fashion designer Alexander McQueen, van Herpen’s designs have been featured on the runways of Paris, Amsterdam and London and in the galleries of museums from Paris to New York.

 

 

Iris van Herpen: Transforming Fashion, on view at GRAM in Grand Rapids from Oct. 23 to Jan. 15 will fill the entire third floor of the Museum. The exhibition features 45 haute couture outfits carefully selected from 15 of van Herpen’s collections designed from 2008 through 2015: 18 pieces from the designer’s most recent lines, a selection of her shoe designs and 27 works from van Herpen’s solo exhibition at the Groninger Museum, Netherlands.

 

Voltage, Dress, January 2013: In collaboration with Philip Beesley Laser cut 3D polyester film lace, micro fiber. Collection of the designer. Photo by Bart Oomes, No 6 Studios
Voltage, Dress, January 2013: In collaboration with Philip Beesley Laser cut 3D polyester film lace, micro fiber. Collection of the designer. Photo by Bart Oomes, No 6 Studios

In addition to van Herpen’s designs, a hands-on “touch material” section of the exhibition will encourage visitors to explore some of the more unusual materials she uses including translucent stainless steel fabric and structures made from the tines of children’s umbrellas.

 

“Iris continues to redefine fashion and its place in the art world,” said GRAM Director & CEO Dana Friis-Hansen. “Like most artists, she continually experiments and tests new ideas to realize her artistic vision, be that capturing the movement of water or the visualization of sound waves. That creative spirit is central to all we do at GRAM and we’re excited to share such a breathtaking exhibition.”

 

“Iris’s designs have been described as having a ‘sublime beauty,’” said GRAM Chief Curator Ron Platt. “She accomplishes that by melding design, technology, fashion and science in a manner that seems almost effortless but remains deeply rooted in traditional craftsmanship.”

 

Radiation Invasion, Dress, September 2009. Faux leather, gold foil, cotton, tulle/ Groninger Museum. Photo by Bart Oomes, No 6 Studios
Radiation Invasion, Dress, September 2009. Faux leather, gold foil, cotton, tulle/ Groninger Museum. Photo by Bart Oomes, No 6 Studios

Van Herpen (Dutch, born 1984) produced her first collection in 2007, shortly after graduating from the ArtEZ Institute of the Arts in the Netherlands. Born in the small town of Wamel, she is now based primarily in Amsterdam. In 2012, she became a member of the exclusive Chambre Syndicale de Haute Couture, where her designs regularly appear in biannual Paris runway shows. Van Herpen divides her time between the contained world of her studio, her global network of collaborators and the international stage of fashion.

 

Iris van Herpen: Transforming Fashion is co-organized by the High Museum of Art, Atlanta, and the Groninger Museum, the Netherlands. The exhibition was curated by Sarah Schleuning, High Museum of Art, and Mark Wilson and Sue-an van der Zijpp, Groninger Museum.

 

The exhibition will be complemented by a series of presentations from special guests including Schleuning, who will provide anecdotes about working with van Herpen on the exhibition. GRAM members can take advantage of two member-only opportunities to preview Transforming Fashion before it opens to the public — a member preview party on October 21st and a member day on October 22nd.

 

For GRAM’s hours and admission fees, visit artmuseumgr.org or call 616-831-1000.

Shrek, Kung Fu Panda join Grand Rapids Symphony for an animated evening

3-bottom, Entertainment, , , , ,

shrek-dreamworks-animation-in-concert

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk

Grand Rapids Symphony

 

The tales told in films from DreamWorks Animation are some of the best in contemporary cinema.

 

An unexpected friendship between a hapless, young Viking and a dragon; a surprising romance between an ogre and a princess; and the unexpected adventures of animals who have spent their entire life in New York’s Central Park Zoo, suddenly thrust back into their native habitat, all are told in How to Train Your Dragon, Shrek and Madagascar.

 

But the drama of the Bridge scene in Kung Fu Panda or the intensity of the Calling the Guardians in Rise of the Guardians wouldn’t be as dramatic or intense without the music illuminating the action.

 

As good as it is to see in the theater, it’s even better when the music is LIVE.

 

Justin Freer
Justin Freer

DreamWorks Animation and CineConcerts bring DreamWorks Animation in Concert to Grand Rapids for one-night only at 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, in DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW.

 

Guest conductor Justin Freer leads the Grand Rapids Symphony in a live performance of favorite moments from some of DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved films.

 

“DreamWorks has brought such delight to families around the globe with their vibrant characters and adventurous stories,” said Freer, President of CineConcerts as well as Producer/Conductor of DreamWorks Animation in Concert. “What carries us through these charismatic experiences is the inspired and fitting music.  To be able to showcase the music in a movie-like environment is an entertainment memory we hope lasts forever.”

 

kung-fu-panda-dreamworks-animation-in-concertEnjoy years of inspired animation and iconic music scores by Hans Zimmer, Harry Gregson-Williams, John Powell, Alexandre Desplat, Alan Silvestri, Danny Elfman and many others.  Relive moments from Puss in Boots, Monsters vs. Aliens, The Croods and Mr. Peabody and Sherman as scenes from the films are projected in HD onto the big screen, and the Grand Rapids Symphony does the rest.

 

DreamWorks Animation Live Entertainment Head Eric Stevens says, “We are excited to bring the stunning music of our composers to life on stage to be showcased in this great and fun event for music and movie fans of all ages.”

 

The studio has released a total of 32 feature films, including sequels for films such as Shrek, and How to Train Your Dragon.

 

Tickets for DreamWorks Animation in Concert start at $18 and are available at the GRS ticket office, weekdays 9 a.m. -5 p.m. at 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, (located across from the Calder Plaza), or by calling 616-454-9451, ext. 4. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum.)

 

Tickets are available at the DeVos Place box office, weekdays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. or on the day of the concert beginning two hours prior to the performance. Tickets also may be purchased online at GRSymphony.org.

Meow! The Amazing AcroCats came to Grand Rapids!

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, Entertainment, Pets/Animals, ,

 

By Victoria Mullen

WKTV

 

More cowbell, Tuna. Oh, c’mon.

tuna-on-cowbell
Tuna on cowbell

“Tuna, more cowbell,” coaxed Samantha Martin as the proud, white cat raised her paw, looked Martin straight in the eye and then put her paw back down. “No cowbell for you,” the feline’s face seemed to convey.

 

At least not right at this moment.*

 

Tuna and her cohorts, the Amazing AcroCats were in Grand Rapids Oct. 16 and 17 for three performances at the Wealthy Theatre in Eastown. The troupe comprises regular, down-to-earth house cats rescued by Martin and trained to perform tricks of their choosing.

 

As Chief Executive Human, on any given day Martin oversees the well being of about 14 performing cats — and sometimes an abundance of kittens. On Martin’s cue, the cats perform tricks with skateboards, roll balls over parallel ropes, play the piano, strum the guitar and even read signs.

 

With a background in animal training, Martin has a natural affinity for animals, especially felines. She uses clicker training techniques to build better relationships and solve behavioral problems. Her career as animal circus master began in the ’80s with an act called the Amazing AcroRats. After a few years, she realized she wanted to do something more challenging when she decided, why not cats?

 

Kittens in the studio!!!!
Kittens in the studio!!!!

“Cats have a reputation for being notoriously difficult to train,” said Martin. “But I love a challenge.”

 

To Martin’s delight, she discovered that cats are highly trainable. The training method differs from that of dogs — cats prefer real treats (chicken, salmon) versus a paltry “good kitty!” after performing a trick.

 

There’s much more to the show than music and acrobatics, and each cat has an amazing rescue story. One was found behind a dumpster. Others were abandoned as tiny kittens. All are well cared for and loved by Martin and her colleagues.

 

“We’re devoted to promoting cat-training awareness,” Martin said. “We support feline adoption and rescue across the country. We usually travel with foster kittens and cats. Right now, we don’t have any as we’ve adopted the last group out.”

 

Martin brought some of her AcroCats came to WKTV’s studio on Saturday to share some tricks and tips on why it’s important to train your cat.

 

Samantha Martin and WKTV's Bill Jung
Samantha Martin and WKTV’s Bill Jung. Love the ears, Bill.

In the studio with Martin was Smudge, a kitten who came on board with a sibling just yesterday. Already he is in training to become an AcroCat.

 

“I start training them as soon as they can eat solid food,” said Martin. “I observe to see what each cat likes to do and then build upon that using clicker training.”

 

Already Smudge is exhibiting some great paw action. Surely he has a promising future.

 

*Seconds later, Tuna did more cowbell. What a tease.

 

Adventures at San Diego Comic-Con: Anniversaries and powerful women

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , ,

aliens30th_2For the second straight year, Katelyn visited Comic-Con in San Diego. In case you missed it: Wonder Woman had an anniversary, Her Universe had a fashion show, a Costume Palooza, and Warner Brothers in Hall H!

 

Written and Photographed by: Katelyn Kohane

 

“Our enemy’s remain at home, abroad and in the skies beyond our world.” –Hank Henshaw

 

Saturday morning in Hall H was packed with Warner Brothers taking center stage, but the rest of the day didn’t let up with two major anniversaries and stars galore.

 

Star Trek celebrated their 50th Anniversary and we were all shown the new trailer for Star Trek Beyond which is now currently in theaters. After the trailer, the cast members came on stage. We had the opportunity to see William Shatner, Jeri Ryan, Michael Dorn, and Scott Bakule.

 

The cast was asked questions from the audience. Who’s their favorite Captain? Well that would be Kirk first and Bicard second. What’s their favorite piece of technology from the show? Michael Dorn mentioned the Next Generation iPad, Jeri loved the Transporter, and the Communicator holds a special place in William Shatner’s heart.

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The next anniversary in line was Aliens 30th. Director James Cameron, Gale Anne Hurd, Sigourney Weaver, Bill Paxton, Lance Henriksen, Michael Biehn and Paul Reiser joined on stage as the audience was shown clips from the movie. During the dialogue amongst those on stage, Sigourney Weaver talked about her belief in the reality of the Alien Queen and did not want to know how the machine worked.

 

One gentlemen in the audience took the 30th anniversary as an opportunity to propose to his girlfriend because it was their favorite movie to watch together. Obviously she said yes.

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While the anniversaries were fun, the panel that followed added so added some extra power with Entertainment Weekly: Woman Who Kick Ass. The panel was full of powerful women and included Moren Baccarin (Gotham), Melissa Benoist (Supergirl), Nathalie Emmanuel (Furious 7), Lucy Lawless (Ash vs. Evil Dead), Tatian Maslany (Orphan Black), Connie Nielsen (Wonder Woman), and Many-Na Wen (Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.). It was really cool to see all of those kick ass women in one place.

 

The women were asked about their proudest “kick ass” moments. Ming-Na Wan said, “When Agent May beats the crap out of three big guys.” Morena Baccarin mentioned “shooting Deadpool”, and Melissa Benoist said surviving a punch in the face by a woman who knows jujitsu.

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Saturday continues to be just as exciting and jammed packed. “Your mission, should you choose to accept it…” is to stay tuned to see what Marvel had in store for us. As a spoiler I will mention Black Panther.

 

“Vengeance has consumed you. It’s consuming them. I’m done letting it consume me. Justice will come soon enough.” – T’Challa

Wyoming Public Safety investigates weekend shooting, car accident

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Hard News, , , ,

Wyoming Public Safety

Wyoming Department of Public Safety is investigating two incidents – a shooting and a serious traffic accident – that took place over the weekend.

 

At around 10:43 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded to the report of shots being fired in the area of Francis and 36th Street SE. A second caller was able to give a description of the vehicle and reported seeding an occupant fire rounds toward a residence. Officers later confirmed that several rounds had been fired into an occupied residence in the 100 block of 36th Street SE.

 

While checking the area, an officer located a vehicle matching the suspect description. The officer attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle which had pulled into a driveway near the location of the initial shots being fired. At one point during the stop, the driver fled the scene by driving forward and through the backyard of the residence. The vehicle continued and, after crashing through a fence, was again located by an officer near 36th Street and Division. The driver refused to stop and eventually turned north on Jefferson Avenue from 36th Street. The officer observed the vehicle continuing at a high rate of speed across 32nd Street where it left the roadway, striking a tree near the 3100 block of Jefferson Avenue.

 

Two occupants were removed from the vehicle and the driver was extricated by Wyoming Fire personnel. All three occupants were taken to local hospitals where they were being treated for non-life threatening injuries. A loaded firearm was located in the vehicle. The incident remains under investigation.

 

In unrelated incident, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety responded around 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, to a vehicle traffic crash on South Division Avenue and Avonlea Street SW. The crash occurred when a south bound vehicle driven by a 31-year-old male from Wyoming hit a 24-year-old male from Wyoming. The driver of the vehicle and two other witnesses stated that the pedestrian stepped off the curb directly into the path of the vehicle without looking. The 24-year-old male, identified as Carlos Moncrief, was transported to a local hospital in serious but stable condition.

 

Wyoming Public Safety officers continue their investigations into both the crash and the shooting. Anyone with information on either incident is asked to call the Wyoming Department of Public Safety at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.

Metro Health Receives State Approval to Perform Elective PCI

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Health, , , , , ,

metro health building

 

Metro Health has received approval from the state of Michigan to perform Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention, or PCI, services in its cardiac catheterization laboratories at Metro Health Hospital.

 

Metro announced today that it has received approval from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to perform this life-saving service, restoring blood flow through heart vessels by using catheters with balloons and stents, without on-site Open Heart Surgery (OHS) services. The decision clears the way for Metro Health to expand services for its patients throughout West Michigan.

 

For more than a decade, Metro Health physicians have been performing the procedure on the most critical patients, those suffering a heart attack when they enter the hospital. Now, Metro Health will be able to offer this service to its patients who enter the hospital with chest pain or other conditions prompting diagnostic procedures which lead to elective, or scheduled non-emergent, PCI.

 

Previously, Metro Health patients requiring elective PCI had to be transferred to facilities that also offered back-up OHS services. A change in state regulations, prompted by quality data showing that PCI programs without OHS services in other states and Europe have quality indicators as high as those programs with OHS services and acceptance of the practice by the American College of Cardiology, made it possible for MDHHS to approve the Certificate of Need, or CON,  request.

 

“Being able to offer elective PCI to our patients without transferring them to other institutions is a win for patient care and something patients have asked for,” said Paul Kovack, a cardiologist at Metro Heart and Vascular. “This decision will help us keep patients in their medical home and provides choice to patients. Additionally, it will cut down on unnecessary duplicate testing, costly ambulance transfers and delays in care, making care more timely and less costly.”

 

The MDHHS decision comes after a long effort to update Michigan PCI regulations to mirror those of other states and countries that have long allowed elective PCI without OHS backup.

 

“The CON process is valuable in holding down costs for Michigan residents, but it can be challenging to update regulations to reflect new medical research,” said Michael Faas, president and CEO of Metro Health. “It is a delicate balancing act to keep up with medical advances and hold down healthcare costs. We are pleased with this patient-driven decision and know that Metro Health patients will benefit from this update and our ability to provide the services they need, when they need them.”

 

PCI, also known as angioplasty, is a non-surgical procedure that uses a thin flexible tube, or catheter, to access blood vessels in the heart which are narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup, or atherosclerosis, and reopen them. The procedure is performed by an interventional cardiologist who gains access to blood vessels in the heart through the femoral artery in the groin or the radial artery in the wrist. A small balloon is then inflated to push away the plaque, thus opening the blood vessel for blood flow, and a stent can be placed to keep the plaque pushed to the walls of the blood vessel, thus maintaining the blood vessel open for blood flow.

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for more than 600,000 deaths each year.

 

The PCI procedure lasts from 30 minutes to several hours and provides patients with a number of benefits:

  • Increased blood flow through the blocked artery
  • Decreased chest pain
  • Increased ability to be physically active