Category Archives: Citizen Journalism

Thunder Over Michigan Air Show

September 23, 2015Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, RecreationAircraft, Blue Angels, Katelyn Kohane, Thunder over Michigan, UH-1 HueyJoanne

By: Katelyn Kohane

Thunder Over Michigan is an amazing experience. I went on Sunday, which happens to be the final day. The event took place at the Detroit Metro Willow Run Airport. There was an incredible line up of military air planes and helicopters.

Of course, they saved the best for last, the United States Navy Blue Angels.

The entire days was chalked full of events to keep you busy and occupied. The total number of aircrafts was jaw-dropping.

To mention a few of the planes: the Heavy Hitter Avro Lancaster, which made its debut in 1942 as the strategic bombing in Europe began during World War 2; The End All Be All Fifi B-29 Superfortress, this was one of the planes to drop nuclear bombs during World War 2 and was also used in active duty during the Korean War; Patrolling the skies Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer, which was a patrol bomber for the United States Navy during World War 2 and the Korean War.

They had a number planes on the ground that you could take a tour through, but I wound up skipping out on the plane tours and took a slightly more adventurous experience. I ended up going for a ride in a UH-1 Huey Helicopter.

The tour in the Huey required a signed waiver and $75. It was worth every penny!

I sat in the gunner seat on the outside of the Helicopter. The view, and the entire experience, was incredible. If you’ve never taken a ride in a helicopter, I would highly recommend it. The air show makes for an easy and comfortable environment to give it a try.

The helicopter ride took one thing off the Bucket List; what will I ride in next year!?

As I mentioned, the show was great and the ride was amazing but they saved the best for last; the United States Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration squad.

The Blue Angles makes their home in Pensacola, Florida and they perform across the country throughout the year. They are on the road from the middle of March until late November putting on a showcase in aircraft handling. After November, the Blue Angels head back to Florida for the winter.

The US Navy Blue Angels began in 1946 as a desire to keep the public interested in Naval Aviation. The original Blue Angels team flew a Grumman F6F Hellcat aircraft. The team now flies an F/A 18 Hornet.

Maintenance crews for the Blue Angels fly with them in the US Marine Corps C-130 also known as “Fat Albert.” This year the team is lead by their Flight Leader/ Commanding Officer Captain Tom Frosch, who is from Michigan. Another cool tidbit about the team this year, they now have their first female pilot. Her name is Katie (not me though! I wish!).

The team puts on a highly choreographed, high-octane performance with a lot of stunts. They have the four-plane Diamond Formation and also the six-jet Delta Formation where the planes fly as close together as 2 meters.

Performing with massive machinery with such as eloquent grace is a slight to behold. The Blue Angels keep getting better every time I see them. At the end of their show, the team came out the field where everyone was sitting and talked to the audience and signed autographs. It’s always fun to go and talk to the pilots. They really do put on a high-octane performance in the air and with the fans afterwards.

I have been fortunate enough to experience their demonstrations at the Air Base in Pensacola many times, and would highly recommend this. The Blue Angels are a true marvel in the sky.

Make sure to check out Thunder Over Michigan next year. You won’t be disappointed!

Katie works in the film industry as a camera operator and has worked on films like ‘All You Can Dream’, ‘Set Up’ and a TV show called ‘American Fallen Soldier.’ She loves helping WKTV with the Citizen Journalism team and working as a tech at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Katie loves working in the film industry and loves watching movies just as much!

Adventures at San Diego Comic-Con International: The Finale

September 14, 2015Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Reviews, WKTV ProjectsComic-Con, Hall H, Katelyn Kohane, San Diego Comic Con, Star Wars, VendersJoanne

By: Katelyn Kohane

As ‘your mission,’ “Is not this simpler? Is this not your natural state? It’s the unspoken truth of humanity, that you crave subjugation. The bright lure of freedom diminishes your life’s joy in a mad scramble for power, for identity. You were made to be ruled. In the end, you will always kneel.”

You came back to see what I accomplished on Sunday., and as I mentioned in my last article, I will dive into the shopping and vendors at Comic-Con.

But first, I did attend one last panel on Sunday called The Art Directors Guild Illustrators. There were five panelists who all work for the film industry and the Local 800 at the discussion. The panelists were Ed Natividad whose credits include Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice and Transformers: Age of Extinction, Amy Lynn Umezu – Kong: Skull Island, Patrick Rodriguez – The Incredible Hulk and Iron Man 2, Jeffery Errico – Terminator Genisys and Straight Outta Compton, and Tim Burgard – Jurassic World and Fantastic Four.

Seated left to right is Jeffery Errico, Amy Lynn Umezu, Patrick Rodriguez, and Ed Natividad

The panel was asked some fun questions by the crowd. One of the questions asked was “How is the art department changing?” There were several answers. Jeffery Errico mentioned the use of a Lightbox as the tool of choice in the art department. They used to use thumb nails, post-it, and scans to communicate with the rest of the crew.

Patrick Rodriguez mentioned that 2D and 3D applications were easier to use than the other choices, but most of the time he still prefers to draw.

The panelists were then asked to describe their favorite project. Jeffrey Errico’s favorite projects that he worked on were Burlesque and This is the End. Amy Lynn Umezu’s enjoyed working on Jurassic World and This is the End. Patrick Rodriguez’s liked working on the action movies Cowboys and Aliens and Iron Man 2. Last, but not least, Ed Natividad’s favorites were Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

My favorite quote from this panel was when Amy Lynn Umezu said, “Keep going for it; do what you love to do.”

The most important thing they mentioned was the benefits of being a part of the union because you will end up getting more work. It’s tough getting into the film industry, but well worth working for once you make it in.

After the panel, I went to check out the vendors and do some shopping. The vendors had some pretty cool items for sale, including costumes!

The 501st and Rebel Legion were both there. Those are two different Star Wars groups that you can join and do volunteer work while dressed in Star Wars costumes. They had some great looking headpieces. Many people were dressed up in crazy costumes and there were life size sculptors.

Comic-Con was just as amazing as everyone always says it is. Being Press was definitely awesome and I was able to get a few more perks such as guaranteed seating in the Her Universe Fashion Show. It is certainly Fanboy central out in San Diego and something that every geek should experience at least once in your lifetime.

Signing off until next time, “Live long and prosper.”

Become A Citizen Journalist–You’ll Be Glad You Did

September 11, 2015Citizen Journalism, Our CitiesWKTV's Citizen Journalism ProgramJoanne

Recent pic of Marge's Donut Den with CJ Team — Mike DeWitt and Colleen Pierson got a chance to tell the story of Marge Wilson’s–from Marge’s Donut Shop– life. Becoming a Citizen Journalist offers opportunities to share stories.

Hey Community Writers—Gain readership now by becoming a WKTV Citizen Journalist. The entire experience is educational, entertaining, informative, simple and most importantly, fun.

Write stories that interest you about your community online for Wyoming Now/Kentwood Now.

This fresh, hyper-local information and news source serves our community as an innovative Citizen Journalism project supported by WKTV Community Media.

Tell the stories of what’s happening in your neighborhoods for the sake of building a stronger community, encouraging local talent and participating in our democracy!

This is an invitation to Wordsmiths of all abilities to post writings on our website–now.wktv.org.

Tell stories. Be helpful. Offer solutions. Show kindness. Report news. Share favorites.

Get Published Online.

Your words and pictures have a place to be seen, read and shared.

It is simple and our team will help with editing and enhancing your writing skills.

Contact: Mike DeWitt at 616-261-5700 to sign up.

Adventures at San Diego Comic-Con International: Batman v Superman

September 9, 2015Citizen Journalism, WKTV ProjectsBatman v Superman, Comic-Con, Katelyn Kohane, Pan, Suicide SquadJoanne

Some of the craziness in the lines for Hall H and one inside Hall H

By: Katelyn Kohane

As “your mission,” – “You see, madness, as you know, is like gravity. All it takes is a little push!” – You came back to see what I accomplished on Saturday. It was justice… Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.

I arrived early at Comic-Con, around 8 am, and got in line for Hall H. After hearing that the movie’s director, Zach Snyder, showed up the night before driving the new Batmobile, I knew it was going to be a long shot getting into Hall H.

I got in line far from the front. In fact, I was across the street and around the corner down by the marina. Just to clear up how crazy this line was, there were people camped out over night!

When the line finally started moving and I inched closer to the main entrance, I noticed one of the Comic-Con employees holding a counter to tally the total attendance and stop the line when the Hall fills. I asked him what number he was at and he responded with a number that was music to my ears, “4,400.” I was going to get into Hall H for Batman!

It was around 10 am by the time we finally entered Hall H.

Once seated inside, it did not take long for the presentation to start! The presentation started with The Man From U.N.C.L.E. – which is currently in theaters now. Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer both showed up in Hall H.

Next they showed us Pan, which opens in theaters on October 9th. Hugh Jackman, Levi Miller, Garrett Hedlund, and director Joe Wright all came for the presentation. They said, “Pan is completely new for 2015. It’s an origin story of how Pan became Pan.”

Joe Wright said, “Their inspiration was the strangeness of JM Barrie’s book.”

After Pan, we were shown the Suicide Squad. Margot Robbie, Will Smith, director David Ayer and a few others showed up. David Ayer made a bold claim and stirred up excitement when he said, “These are the best villains ever.”

Suicide Squad led us to the main event for Hall H.

First two rows: Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill. Bottom left: Gal Gadot, bottom center: Jesse Eisenberg, and bottom right: Amy Adams.

When it was time for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, the trailer was shown twice because everyone loved it so much! The presentation opened and closed with the trailer.

Once the trailer played, the actors came out on stage and the star power was truly amazing. Gal Gadot, Amy Adams, Jesse Eisenberg, Henry Cavill, Ben Affleck and Zach Snyder all showed up to talk to the crowd. It was incredible to see them all. Zach Snyder said, “It’s not the story revival of Batman v Superman, it’s their own version.”

“Your mission, should you choose to accept it…” is to stay tuned and see what I did on the final day of Comic-Con. As a spoiler, I will be talking more about some of the crazy costumes and vendors at Comic-Con. “I’ll be back.”

Mad Miller Strikes Again

May 27, 2015Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Movie Review, Reviewsat the movies, Brett Wiesenauer, Mad Max: Fury Road, Movie Review, Oscarwatch 2015Joanne

Editor’s Note: This begins a series of movie reviews by a film fanatic in West Michigan who is getting a degree in Communications, Broadcasting, Film and Video from Grand Valley State University.

“I am the scales of justice. Conductor of the choir of death. Sing, Brothers! Sing! SING!!” ~The Bullet Farmer

Over the last year, it’s been a slog anticipating movies. Enough movies have come and gone, here today gone tomorrow that I’ve just about given up on hoping for good, enjoyable genre films to come out and make a difference. I’ve been burned way too many times; PACIFIC RIM was amazing, but critics and audiences dismissed it as nothing special, Godzilla meandered around rather than inspiring any adoration, and anything who mentions the name Michael Bay to my face might as well slap themselves before I do it harder, with a folding chair.

But then, here comes George Miller, septuagenarian madman extraordinaire, to show off his kaleidoscopic symphony of insane imagination, relentless adrenaline, and consummate joy: Mad Max: FURY ROAD. It’s as if he’s been sitting off to the sidelines all these years, watching director after director try to make action movies in Hollywood, finally standing up in a huff, exclaiming, “No, no, no; this is how you make an action movie, lads”. On top of all that, the critics are lauding this film, of the 249 critics who have seen the film, only 5 have given the film a negative review, awarding the film a 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. In regards to action filmmaking, this is unheard of; not since The Dark Knight has a film rode the critical whirlwind like this, and not a non-comic book actioner since the original Matrix film.

FURY ROAD follows Tom Hardy’s Max, a former motor cop broken down by the loss of his family and friends in the fall of law and order post-Apocalypse. He is captured by the War Boys of Immortan Joe, a warlord who looks like the result of The Joker designing a suit of medieval armor, holed up in the towering Citadel somewhere in deserted Australia. Shortly after Max’s capture, one of Joe’s subordinates, Imperator Furiosa, played to hardened perfection by Charlize Theron, steals Joe’s prized breeding wives, in a desperate bid for freedom across the hostile Outback. The following one-hundred odd minutes has been described as a cathartic, two-hour car chase in the desert between madness and unbridled fury. And it is astounding to behold.

Charlize Theron is fantastic as the stoic Furiosa who will do anything to provide a better life for the young ladies in her care, clearly earning her sharing top billing with Tom Hardy’s Max Rockatansky. Tom Hardy takes over from Mel Gibson quite well. He moves with precision, determination; there’s a lot of animalistic behavior in his madness. And his Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is as haunting as most anything from The Babadook. Nicholas Hoult is a treat as the nutty War Boy Nux, providing moments and dialogue that is destined for a pantheon of insane bad assery. There’s also the chief villain, Immortan Joe, who is played by the same actor as the villain in the original Mad Max, the Toecutter! Then there’s the Doof Warrior, a man clad in a lava-red jumpsuit who has not a single line in the film, but steals every scene simply because the man wields an electric guitar that breathes fire! Also, Rictus Erectus is to be referred henceforth as Stone Cold Steve Australia.

The funniest thing is that for the last 20 years, Miller has been tempering himself by working in family films. After seemingly concluding the original Mad Max trilogy with the entertaining, yet uneven Beyond Thunderdome, Miller made the 2 Babe films as well as 2 Happy Feet flicks. With ease, Miller remembers that the trick with all filmmaking, but the action genre in particular, is to show, not tell, as film is a visual medium. None of this Nolan-esque obsession with infinite exposition so the audience won’t ever be lost. Miller drives the audience head-first into the insanity, with a short chase scene that leads into yet another chase scene building up to an even BIGGER chase scene that will end up taking more than half of the film’s runtime. It’s quite admirable as well as shockingly to the point. The movie has been streamlined to the point that anyone can enter and enjoy the film as long as they are willing to accept the outlandish craziness of the post-apocalyptic Outback, where masked warlords rule over helpless refuse, stubborn drifters grunt and snarl rather than speak in sentences, and independent women are the most bad ass thing in sight.

On the note of the women’s role in the film. There is a small, but loud audience of deluded man-children on social media claiming that FURY ROAD contains a sickening feminist agenda, poised to forcibly insert feminist ideals into the gung-ho, he-man world of action films. Yeah, because Aliens was totally ruined by the fact that Ellen Ripley was the main character of the film. Oh, and how dare Lara Croft be born female? All action protagonists must be born with male parts and no feminine qualities whatsoever! Ugh! Just of note, this is a film where the main villain is a tyrant and known sex-slaver, yet there is not a single scene of extravagant nudity or even a rape scene, which premium television apparently relishes, cough cough!

This film is joy. A pure, off-kilter, powerhouse of joy. And I have seen this film eight times au cinéma since its release. This has NEVER happened before. Hollywood, please acknowledge my humble request: Fire Michael Bay, Can Zack Snyder, Halt production on all movies, and then give them all to George Miller.

Grand Traverse Distillery teams with the Grand Rapids Downtown Market

November 12, 2014Citizen JournalismJoanne

Grand Traverse Distillery will be the newest addition to the Downtown Market

Grand Rapids Downtown Market, a destination for local food innovation, education and experimentation, today announced Grand Traverse Distillery, maker of craft spirits including vodka, gin, rum, whiskey and bourbon, will open a tasting room at the Downtown Market.

Founded by Kent Rabish in 2007, Grand Traverse Distillery is based in Traverse City, and is the largest micro-distillery in Michigan. In his commitment to using local ingredients, Rabish uses corn, wheat and rye grown at Send Brothers Farm, just nine miles northeast of the distillery’s production facilities.

“Grand Traverse Distilleries is among the very few using the ‘grain-to-bottle’ method, which means we start with fresh, local rye, corn and wheat, and combined it with pure glacial water to create our artisan spirits,” said Rabish. “Single batch, handmade, one-at-a-time is how we bring our spirits to market, and we are excited to be the first local distiller to open a tasting room in Grand Rapids.”

The Grand Traverse Distillery Tasting Room at the Downtown Market will feature spirits to taste and buy by the bottle. The tasting room will also offer local products and mixers that best complement their spirits, such as syrups, peanuts and pickles, as well as clothing, glassware and barrels for those who want to age their own spirits.

“While artisan spirits are growing rapidly, Grand Traverse Distillery is committed to the re-emerging art of craft distillation, and we are thrilled to add an incredibly popular, ultra-premium Michigan brand to the Downtown Market,” said Mimi Fritz, president and CEO of the Downtown Market. “They are a perfect addition to our space and mission.”

Grand Traverse Distillery will continue to make all of its products at its Traverse City facility. The spirits also are available at tasting rooms in Leland, on Traverse City’s Front Street and in Frankenmuth, with another tasting room coming soon at Black Star Farms.

Construction on the space will begin this month, and the tasting room will open in December.

The Fifth Season of Gilda’s LaughFest Announced Today

November 11, 2014Citizen JournalismJoanne

GEORGE LOPEZ, WANDA SYKES, PATTON OSWALT AND MORE

Ticket packages for the March 5-15 festival of laughter go on-sale Nov. 14

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Nov. 11, 2014 – Today, the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter, Gilda’s LaughFest, announced the first round of talent and shows for the festival’s fifth year to be held March 5 to 15, 2015. The announcement included a diverse range of performers that are new to the festival, as well as some past favorites returning to take part in the festival’s fifth year.

The headliners announced include: George Lopez, Patton Oswalt, Wanda Sykes and LaughFest veterans Bo Burnham, YouTube star and singer/songwriter comedian; Pete Holmes, who will be perform two shows and record a live podcast; and Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood of Whose Line Is It Anyway? Ticket packages for the festival go on-sale Friday, Nov. 14.

“In planning our fifth year, we were looking to bring back some of our most popular acts from festival’s past while continuing to bring fresh faces to West Michigan,” said Joanne Roehm, festival director of LaughFest. “Following four successful years, the festival’s foundation will continue the tradition of laughter by featuring stand-up comedy, improv, music, dance, speakers, pets, children’s shows, free professional and amateur showcases, and a variety of other events that will allow everyone an opportunity to laugh.”

Other acts announced for LaughFest 2015 include Lavell Crawford of Breaking Bad; Billy Gardell, star of CBS’ Mike and Molly; and stand-up comedian and podcaster Brian Posehn.

The festival will continue to feature the Blue & Late Night Comedy Series, presented by Bud Light. Two of the artists announced include Jerrod Carmichael of the recent feature film Neighbors, and Iliza Schlesinger who is the only female and the youngest comedian to hold the title of NBC’s Last Comic Standing.

The Best of the Midwest Competition, underwritten by Wolverine Worldwide, will feature 10 Midwestern comics battling for a $2,500 cash prize. Competitors are Jeff Arcuri, Tom Brady, Katrina Brown, Danny Kallas, Bryan McCree, Mike Merryfield, Carmen Morales, Tommy Ryman, Norm Stulz, and BT.

Bissell Presents the Clean Comedy Showcase with two showcases featuring eight comedians who specialize in providing clean adult humor. Artists include Todd Andrews, Tracey Ashley, Sid Davis, Erin Foley, Dale Jones, Joe List, Andrew Norelli and PJ Walsh, who previously performed at LaughFest.

The Gun Lake Casino National Stand-Up Comedy Showcase returns to the festival and features 10 seriously funny, nationally-known comics: Joe DeRosa, Kyle Grooms, Ian Karmel, Randy Liedtke, Jared Logan, Alingon Mitra, Sara Schaefer, Dan Soder, Liza Tryeger and Sheng Wang.

The Family Friendly Series Presented by Meijer, includes performances by Recess Monkey, a high energy kids’ band; Super Saturday Kids Zone, a themed carnival for all ages; and Saturday Nite Teen Zone, a 13 and up activity fused evening for kids.

Additionally, ticket packages will include the LaughFest’s Best shows, which will feature comedians from across the festival, and shows from local comedy troupes River City Improv and Pop Scholars.

Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids is again seeking to raise funds to support its children’s programs through the “High Five” campaign. Money raised during LaughFest through this campaign will go towards children living with cancer or grief, and for in-school emotional health programs. Individuals interested in donating to the “High Five” campaign may do so by purchasing a button for a $5 donation at participating restaurants and business in West Michigan, or through the LaughFest website.

LaughFest 2015 will include more than 200 free and ticketed shows featuring over 100 artists at more than 40 venues in Grand Rapids, Lowell and Holland during the 10 days of the festival. Festival ticket packages start at $32 and will be available to the public beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14 online at laughfestgr.org, or by phone at (616) 735-HAHA (4242). A special pre-sale opportunity will be available on Thursday, Nov. 13 for members of the LaughFest Friends program at the $100 level. Information about membership is available at www.laughfestgr.org/membership2015.

Individual tickets are priced from $7 to $70, excluding the Signature Event. These will be available beginning Friday, Jan. 9, 2015 at the Van Andel Arena Box Office or at Ticketmaster outlets, or LaughFest Central, when it opens in mid-February, through the closing day of LaughFest.

The talent for Gilda’s Club Grand Rapid’s fundraising Signature Event held during LaughFest will be announced at a later date, along with additional talent for the festival. Previous artists who have appeared during the Signature Event include Betty White, Martin Short and Kevin Nealon, Wayne Brady, and Jay Leno.

Gilda’s LaughFest was created by a team at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids in 2011. Since inception, LaughFest has averaged 55,000 attendees per year. Proceeds from the festival will go to support the free cancer, grief and emotional health programs offered through Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. Visit laughfestgr.org or call 616-735-HAHA (4242) to learn more about Gilda’s LaughFest.

10 Tips to Help Smokers Quit

November 10, 2014Citizen JournalismJoanne

American Cancer Society Offers Tips to Help You Quit During the Great American Smokeout Nov. 20

Celebrate more birthdays with the American Cancer Society by quitting smoking during this year’s Great American Smokeout on Thursday, Nov. 20. If you or someone you love is looking to “kick the habit” this year, here are some helpful tips on how to break free from a smoking addiction.

Don’t keep it a secret. Include your friends and family in your quitting process; they can offer much-needed support.
You’re not alone. More and more people are trying to break free from cigarettes and there are lots of support options available. Many communities, employers, and health care organizations have free or low-cost counseling and support available to help you quit. Call your American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 to find out what’s available in your area.
Consider using medication to help you quit. There are prescriptions and over-the-counter medications that can help you deal with withdrawal symptoms or even help to reduce the urge to smoke. You’ll want to talk to your doctor first, but some medicine could help.
Dump the memories. Clear the places where you usually smoke of anything that reminds you of cigarettes – like lighters, ashtrays, or matches. Also ask other smokers not to smoke around you, and clean your house and car thoroughly to remove the smell of cigarettes.
Avoid places where smokers gather. Go to the movies or other places where smoking is not allowed.
Stay calm and stay busy. You may feel some nervous energy but it can be countered by physical and mental activities. Take long strolls and deep breaths of fresh air, and find things to keep your hands busy, like crossword puzzles or yard work. There are a lot of leaves on the ground at this time of year.
Talk to your doctor. Before you begin any plan for quitting smoking you should check with your doctor to see what might be the best approach for you. Remember, quitting smoking is very personal and there isn’t one perfect method.
When the urge to smoke strikes, do something else. If you feel a craving for a cigarette coming on, take a deep breath, count to 10 and then do something else. Call a supportive friend. Do brief exercises such as push-ups, walking up a flight of stairs, or touching your toes. Anything that will take your mind off your cravings.
One will hurt. Many people fall into the trap of thinking that if they only have one cigarette it’s okay. But even that one smoke can get you back in the habit of smoking full time. Keeping a supply of oral substitutes like carrots, apples, raisins, or gum handy can help.
Water, water everywhere. Drink lots of fluids to help curb cravings. Water is the best for this, and you’ll want to pass up on coffee and alcohol if they trigger your desire to smoke.

It’s not easy to quit smoking. Studies have indicated that cigarettes are more addictive than heroin, and the first three weeks after you quit are said to be the most difficult. If you stumble along the way to giving up smoking, don’t punish yourself. Just try again. The key is to stick with it. You can quit! The American Cancer Society can help. Contact your American Cancer Society 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

The American Cancer Society created the trademarked concept for and held its first Great American Smokeout in 1976 as a way to inspire and encourage smokers to quit for a day. One million people quit smoking for a day at the 1976 event in California. The Great American Smokeout encourages smokers to commit to making a long-term plan to quit smoking for good.

About the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers saving lives and fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society’s efforts have contributed to a 20 percent decline in cancer death rates in the U.S. since 1991, and a 50 percent drop in smoking rates. Thanks in part to our progress nearly 14 million Americans who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will celebrate more birthdays this year. We’re determined to finish the fight against cancer. We’re finding cures as the nation’s largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, ensuring people facing cancer have the help they need and continuing the fight for access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air, and more. For more information, to get help, or to join the fight, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

Michigan License Plates that Recognize Military Service

November 8, 2014Citizen JournalismJoanne

LANSING, Mich. – In honor of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminds veterans that Michigan offers more than two dozen veteran license plates recognizing their service protecting the freedoms Americans hold dear.

“Michigan is proud to be home to hundreds of thousands of courageous veterans who have served in our nation’s armed forces and who deserve our utmost respect and admiration,” Johnson said. “One of the ways our state honors veterans is by offering special license plates that commemorate their service and remind the rest of us of their heroism.”

Each of the designations is available to qualifying veterans either on the white standard Pure Michigan license plate or the colorful Spectacular Peninsulas plate. Veterans can order their plate at any Secretary of State office or through the mail by downloading an application at Michigan.gov/sos and mailing it in. They can also see what their plate will look like before they order it by using the Plate It Your Way service at ExpressSOS.com.

Most plates are also available to the spouses of veterans for their vehicles. One plate, the Gold Star Family Plate, is available to immediate family members of military personnel who lost their lives in combat.

Six of the military service plates also are offered as motorcycle plates: Air Force Veteran, Army Veteran, Coast Guard Veteran, Marine Corps Veteran, National Guard Veteran and Navy Veteran.

Three plates feature logos of medals and are available to men and women who earned the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal or the Vietnam Service Medal and their spouses.

Michigan also offers a Veterans Memorial fundraising plate, which has a military dog tags logo and the words “Lest We Forget” at the bottom of the plate. The plate benefits the Vietnam Veterans Memorial monument in Lansing. Johnson supports legislation that would create a fundraising license plate to benefit veteran outreach and tuition-assistance programs.

Johnson has unveiled a number of initiatives in support of the 680,000 veterans who call Michigan home:

Creating a veteran designation on driver’s licenses and state ID cards that helps identify Michigan veterans so they can be connected with the benefits they have earned and deserved. To date, more than 200,000 veterans have applied.
Pushing new ways to ensure that military personnel have their votes counted on Election Day, such as successfully advocating to extend a federal write-in ballot to state and local races.
Waiving road tests for veterans applying for a Commercial Driver License to help their transition to civilian life if they have sufficient heavy truck experience in the military.
Offering more than two dozen military license plates that are available for veterans and their spouses, allowing them to display their service with pride.

Veteran/military service plates are available with the following designations (Most plates are also available to the spouses of veterans for their vehicles except where indicated by an asterisk):

Afghanistan Conflict Veteran
Afghanistan Campaign Medal Veteran
Air Force Veteran*
Army Veteran*
Coast Guard Veteran*
Combat Wounded Veteran (Purple Heart)*
Cuban Missile Crisis
Disabled Veteran
Dominican Republic Veteran
Ex-Prisoner of War (Ex-POW)
Gold Star Family Plate (family members)
Grenada Conflict Veteran
Iraq Conflict Veteran
Iraq Campaign Medal Veteran
Korean War Veteran
Laos Conflict Veteran
Lebanon Conflict Veteran
Marine Corps Veteran*
Military Reserve Member*
National Guard Member*
Navy Veteran*
Panama Conflict Veteran
Pearl Harbor Survivor*
Persian Gulf (Desert Storm) Veteran
Somalia Conflict Veteran
Vietnam War Veteran
Vietnam Service Medal Veteran
World War II Veteran

$95 Million in Capital Improvement Projects through 2020 at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport

November 7, 2014Citizen JournalismJoanne

The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is committed to providing state of the art facilities for its passengers, and the Airport will do just that by investing to improve its facilities with future projects. GFIA’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which was approved by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Board at today’s meeting, will include projects from 2015 through 2020 that total over $95 million.

The anticipated CIP includes a substantial investment in the construction of the Consolidated Checkpoint & Marketplace, reconstruction of the terminal apron, a master plan update, and reconstruction of the North and East Parking Lots. In addition, the plan includes resurfacing a portion of the airfield Perimeter Road, and mid-term maintenance items associated with the public parking structure.

The GFIA board approved the 2015 amended capital budget at $36,273,585, the 2016 capital budget of $18,838,500, and the five-year capital plan for years 2016-2020 of $59,728,400. The total investment for the six year plan tallies $96,001,958, with project estimates calculated in 2015 dollars.

“This investment in airport infrastructure clarifies our commitment to providing West Michigan travelers an airport gateway that not only accommodates increasing activity, but are also reflective of the West Michigan culture and community.” said Brian Ryks, GFIA Executive Director.

“We will continue to make improvements in our facility to make traveling comfortable, convenient, customer-friendly and cost-effective. Today’s approval from the airport board solidifies that commitment for our region’s travelers.”

The CIP is required to be submitted to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Office of Aeronautics, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on an annual basis.

The Winds of Change are Bringing Mary Poppins to Town

November 5, 2014Citizen JournalismGR Civic Theatre, Grand Rapids Civic Theater, Mary Poppins, Susanne AlbaitisJoanne

Just in time for the holidays, Mary Poppins soars onto Grand Rapids Civic Theater’s stage, reminding us all about the important things in life: love and family.

November 14, 2014 through December 14, 2014, this beloved children’s story comes to life for the first time ever on Civic’s stage. Grand Rapids Civic Theater was only one of six community theaters in the country given the rights to perform Mary Poppins.

The seasoned cast includes Civic alum, Alyssa Bauer who transforms herself from perky wife and mother into the proper, boot and hat wearing nanny, Mary Poppins. Her sweet, yet powerful songs will have you believing that a spoonful of sugar will make the medicine go down. You may recognize her from her previous roles at the Civic including Cinderella in Cinderella, Maria in The Sound of Music, Martha Washington in 1776 and Mary Hatch in A Wonderful Life.

Villainous nanny, Miss Andrews is played to perfection by Allyson Paris, a musical theater and voice teacher at Civic. Miss Andrews is hired to replace a missing Mary Poppins, but her tyrannical discipline style differs greatly from Mary’s sweet disposition. Watch for the funny, yet dramatic “duel” between Mary Poppins and Miss Andrews.

The accomplished and talented William Schutte plays Bert, Mary Poppins’s life-long friend. Schutte’s stage career has taken him around the world. He was also cast in the touring productions of A Chorus Line, Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita.

His accomplishments extend beyond the stage; for years Schutte has choreographed shows at Civic and has won a number of Grand Awards for his productions. His role in Mary Poppins will return him to the stage where his passion for tap and theater will surely shine.

Set design is another important piece of this spirited musical. Turning Civic Theater into 1900’s London is the work of scenic designer, David Len. Len uses a paintbrush with a four-foot bamboo extension to paint and splatter his way back to Edwardian London. Watching the backdrops come to life is an impressive show in itself.

The dancing penguins from the movie are absent in the play, but there are however statues that come to life. This holds true to the book series, Mary Poppins, written by P. L. Travers.

Auditions for the show were particularly difficult because performers needed to have singing, acting and tap dancing skills; the triple threat. Tap dancing is a bit of a lost art in the new millennium, but who knows, Civic’s four week run of Mary Poppins may just have Grand Rapids residents tap dancing in the streets.

Tickets are available on line at http://www.grct.org/purchasetickets.html or by calling (888) 695-0888. Grand Rapids Civic Theater also offers a number of ticket packages on their website.

Hometown Heroes Event at Cabela’s

November 5, 2014Citizen JournalismCabelasJoanne

GRANDVILLE, Mich. – Cabela’s, the World’s Foremost Outfitter of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, will honor the contributions of those who serve with their Hometown Heroes Celebration beginning Saturday, November 8th and running through Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11th.

The Hometown Heroes event will recognize the sacrifice and dedication of those who protect and serve our country and communities every day.

Cabela’s Grandville will honor their heroes’ contributions by offering a 10% discount on everything in the store (excluding firearms) and a 5% discount on firearms, to all veterans and active duty military and reserve, law enforcement, fire, and EMS personnel.

To participate in the Hometown Heroes Celebration, veterans and active duty military, reserve, law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel should present their service identification to any cashier upon checkout during the event. Upon doing so, they will receive their Hometown Heroes discount on virtually everything in the store. Some restrictions apply; see store for complete details.

In conjunction with the hometown heroes’ celebration, Cabela’s will welcome the city of Grandville Fire Department Saturday, November 8th for three sessions of fire and home safety classes. Classes will be held at 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. and cover a wide range of important information every family should know to keep their home safe this holiday season. Plus, there will be a fire truck on display outside the front of the store during their visit.

For more information about Cabela’s Hometown Heroes Event, visit www.cabelas.com/grandville. Cabela’s is located at 3000 44th St. SW. Grandville, MI 49418

Broadway Grand Rapids Presents ‘Once’–Winner of 8 Tony Awards– A Love Story You Have to See!

November 4, 2014Citizen JournalismBroadway Grand Rapids, citizen journalism, DeVos Performance Hall, OnceJoanne

Citizen Journalists Carol and Paul Hillman review Broadway Grand Rapids’ Production of Once. They want to see it twice.

It’s not your typical Broadway musical. It’s all about the story. And what a story it is.

ONCE tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs

“Once” is a singular play, but in a way, this is “Once” twice. The title, story, and Grammy nominated music was derived from the 2007 movie of the same name.

Tuesday night’s performance of “Once” at DeVos Performance Hall was the second offering of the Broadway Grand Rapids season. It played to a nearly sold-out crowd. Despite the name, the show is certainly good enough to see twice! Some say this is a stage play integrated seamlessly with compelling songs. Others claim it is a musical telling a story of love played between two stellar performers. Either way, the audience is treated to a performance of NYC caliber actors, musicians, and singers.

The audience knows that something is immediately different when entering the auditorium. Seeing an Irish Public House as the set prior to the performance is not particularly unusual. However, allowing the audience to step up to the stage, buy pre-performance drinks from the working pub, and wandering about the set prior to the opening is quite exceptional. Soon the on stage audience members are joined by half a dozen Celtic fiddle, mandolin, accordion, and guitar musicians. Several traditional Irish tunes are offered to both the audience on stage and those just getting to their seats prior to the “official” start of Act 1.

The staging brings us all together in a common setting and experience. Slowly and unobtrusively audience members return to their seats all while more performers appear on stage. Gradually the house lights dim as the audience is warmly pulled into the pub to watch the story begin.

Most of the tale is told in Billy’s instrument store. But via lighting and minimalistic staging, scenes easily flow from store to home, to appliance repair shop, and then back again. All the time players moving between acting, playing, singing, or quietly functioning as stage crew.

Each of the dozen players demonstrated solid instrumental, vocal, and acting skills. Several players reveal proficiency on multiple instruments. The male and female leads, whose characters are only known as “Guy” and “Girl”, are played by Stuart Ward and Dani de Waal. These two must have been cast for their parts due to their obvious onstage chemistry. Both have extraordinary voices which are matched only by their amazing acting. Each are nearly flawless in their performance.

They play a conflicted couple who struggle with their growing feelings for each other while still trying to honor the relationships they have previously established with others. While never fully stated, the title of the play may possibly refer to the singular time these two will be together in the few days they share in this story.

Several numbers must be called out as special. The audience will surely recognize “Falling Slowly” from the movie. The piece won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Both in the first act and again as a reprise, the song is poignant without being sugary sweet.

While generally a serious and lovely story, there are plenty of laughs and giggles available, not the least of which when “Guy” sings “Broken Hearted Hoover Fixer Sucker Guy”.

In my opinion, the pinnacle of all the musical numbers is the second act a Capella reprise of “Gold”. The instruments are silent, but the voices aren’t. Each character slowly joins the next in a rich wave of sound providing exceptionally tight harmonies and intricate moving vocals. At the climatic end of the song, the 2,000+ attendees are intimately captivated and absolutely silent.

“Once” is not to be missed. Not once; not at all!

Tickets are on sale now! Tickets are available at the DeVos Place® convention center and Van Andel Arena® box offices, Ticketmaster ticket centers, online at Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 1-800-982-2787.

Tommy Brann Adds to Legacy After 43 Years and Counting

November 4, 2014Citizen JournalismBrann Steakhouse, Mike DeWitt, Tommy BranJoanne

43 years. 16 hour workdays. 9 restaurants. 2 franchises. Zero vacations.

That’s Tommy Brann by the numbers, and you can add one extraordinary work ethic on top of that impressive stack.

As the President of Brann’s Steakhouse, Tommy Brann has been integral to West Michigan and this fall he was awarded the Marge Wilson Community Leadership Award for his contributions and involvement within the community.

“Tommy was nominated because of his community involvement and his concern for our veterans,” stated Marge Wilson of Marge’s Doughnut Den.

Brann’s efforts include the GRCC Scholarship Fund, donating $15,000 to the Veterans Park in Grand Rapids, donating another $7,500 to the Wyoming Police Department, and ‘You Deserve a Break’ which provides meals to those in tough times.

On top of the charitable donations, Brann has created hundreds of jobs throughout West Michigan with his restaurants. His work ethic has built a business that allows others to show off their work ethic in order to make a living. Brann attributes all of his working acumen to his father, the founder of Brann’s Steakhouse.

“I started working for my dad in his restaurant when I was 15. When I was 17, I moved out of the the house and into an apartment above my dad’s restaurant,” Brann told WKTV, “I worked so much that I never used my car. I was either at the restaurant or asleep. My best friend, who was also my roommate, actually had my car key copied and would use my car without me ever knowing!”

While work has been his life, lately Tommy has been thinking about his legacy. How will he be remembered beyond Brann’s Steakhouse?

Running a business teaches a lot of lessons, and Tommy has written them all down in his first book titled Mind Your Own Business.

The book covers 13 of Tommy’s lessons about running a small business. Lessons range from managing the actual business to managing those inside, customers and employees both, who make the business run.

Tommy is also a proponent of free enterprise and would like to see it emphasized more in schools. His brainchild is a mentor system that would help at risk 12-13 year old kids by introducing them to free enterprise. The children would work a supervised 6-8 hours per week at $4.25 per hour during normal school time.

Brann’s eyes get big and the excitement picks up when he describes his idea, “When they receive their first paycheck, one that they earned, it will show them the benefits of hard work. That hard work does pay off.”

Tommy’s book Mind Your Own Business is available at Meijer and Schuler’s Bookstore.

For a man as successful as Tommy Brann, what’s his secret? “My biggest fear is letting somebody down,” Brann exclaims.

Well Tommy, you’re too busy picking everyone up to let them down.

The Sound of Music fills Civic halls for holiday season–Local Theater Review

December 3, 2013Citizen Journalism, Local EntertainmentBrett Wiesenauer, Civic Theater, Sound of Music, Theater ReviewJoanne

One of the undisputed classics of musical theater is undoubtedly The Sound of Music. Practically everyone has seen the classic movie on television and video. And now you can see it currently at Grand Rapids Civic Theater Wednesdays through Sundays until December 15th. The cast and crew put on an excellent event that exceeds the film version. A stage show of this caliber is just the thing that the season needs to uplift everyone to approaching holiday spirits.

The settings of this show stand out more than anything. The sets are spectacular, notably that of the mountaintop where the lead songstress Maria sings the title tune and later stages a daring escape from the inevitable Nazi takeover of Captain Von Trapp’s beloved Austria with her new family. The greenery and the granite reproductions restore the atmosphere of the hills of Austria, before the war clouds covered them up. The Von Trapp mansion is also notably reproduced, showcasing a classy grandeur of the Captain and his slew of children, along with their two servants, Frau Schmidt and Franz.

The cast is also excellent, boasting veterans of the stage and newcomers. Jessica Doyle, a voice teacher in the Grand Rapids area, plays the lead Maria with gusto and a pixie-like presence, sweet and nurturing at once. Meanwhile, David Duiven plays the Captain with a restrained formality that showcases professionalism as well as a restricted love that he eventually reveals. The children all give solid performances, especially the eldest daughter Liesl, played by Civic debutante Lydia Blickley, who performs an effortless and classic ballet routine in the number “Sixteen Going on Seventeen”, with her almost beau, the town messenger boy Rolf, played by Josh Regan. Special mention also goes to the unmatched talents of the nuns who open the musical with a wonderful rendition of the 110^th Psalm, and the wonderful Darla Wortley reprising her award-winning turn as the Mother Abbess, mixing unquestioned authority with adorable moments of childishness and exquisite vocals to boot!

If you had doubts about this serving as an appropriate holiday theatrical outing, think again. The show has so much zest and upbeat cheer in the face of danger that no one shall leave the auditorium unhappy. Go out and buy your tickets, the show is still proving a popular draw after all these years.