Category Archives: Citizen Journalism

Cat of the week: Clawdette

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals,
She’s large, in charge — and the consummate companion

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


We were contacted in early July by this gorgeous girl’s owners (who had adopted her back in April of 2013) whose complaint was that she had been leaving pee spots all around their house since they brought her home, that they had tried everything to curb this activity, and that they simply couldn’t deal with it anymore. It should be stated that there was another cat in the household who could have been the culprit.


At Crash’s Landing, we strive to match adopters with a cat who will be a life-long family member. We realize that sometimes things just do not work out as anticipated, and our policy is to gladly take any Crash cat back, any time.


Such was the case with Clawdette. Dr. Jen responded to the owners asking that all previous medical records be forwarded in advance of Clawdette’s return. Unfortunately, the owners had never taken Clawdette to be seen for her presumed urinary issues and, indeed, had taken her only once to be seen by a vet, back in 2014.


When Clawdette arrived at the clinic, Dr. Jen discovered that the poor girl was crawling with fleas, which had prompted her to over-groom to try to control the flea problem. This in turn caused a secondary skin infection. In addition, Clawdette was in dire need of dental work and extractions; her lab work reflected all that was wrong with her, and quite a few drugs and treatments were needed to correct the problems that neglect had caused.


Thankfully Clawdette, our pudgy princess who was born in the fall of 2011, bounced back as if nothing had ever happened, and even though she had been gone for over 6 years, she was as welcoming and accepting of us as if she had never left.


However, she isn’t used to being surrounded by so many other cats, and consequently she isn’t afraid to vocalize her opinions about her new roomies. Because she is a bit of a darling little diva (well, ok big diva, as she weighs in at almost 12#), we would like to find her an indoor home of her very own. She spends most of her days lounging around, laying belly up and patiently waiting for a tummy rub. She has shown us her playful side as well, but attention is what she craves most, and we are more than happy to give it to her.


We have had absolutely no issues with any sort of aberrant litter box habits; if a cat is going to act up and piddle outside of the box, a shelter/multiple cat situation is where this type of behavior would likely surface. Clawdette had been set up by her former housemate.


Clawdette has been nothing short of perfect since she returned. We can’t help but think that if she were the problem in her former home, circumstances surrounding her were causative, but in all reality, none of us who have spent time with her believe that she was naughty by nature. She is such a lovely cat—everyone who meets her is simply smitten with her—that there is no doubt that she is going to make the consummate companion for someone.

More about Clawdette:

  • Tabby & Domestic Short Hair Mix
  • White, Tabby (Tiger Striped)
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Extra Large
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Spayed
  • Prefers a home without other cats

Want to adopt Clawdette? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

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

SpartanNash celebrates Family Meals Month, encourages families to eat together

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

By SpartanNash

SpartanNash is encouraging its store guests to celebrate National Family Meals Month and share one more meal per week at home, using items purchased from the grocery store. Sponsored by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) Foundation, Family Meals Month emphasizes the importance of sharing a meal together.

According to FMI, kids – from elementary to high school age – who eat meals with their families four or more times a week earn better test scores and succeed in school. Eating family meals together is also tied to a 24 percent increase in healthy food consumption, with kids eating more fruits, vegetables, fiber, calcium-rich foods and vitamins.

During Family Meals Month, SpartanNash and its 160 corporate-owned stores are challenging customers to pledge to have one more meal together each week at home. To make it easier to do so, SpartanNash and its Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets, D&W Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery, Dan’s Supermarket and Family Fresh Market stores are offering tips and tricks online, in-store and through social media using the hashtags #FamilyMealsMonth and #OurFamilyMeals.

Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets, D&W Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery, Dan’s Supermarket and Family Fresh Market Facebook pages will share weekly recipe videos featuring Our Family® products, all of which are easy and nutritious weeknight family meals.

The Family Fare Facebook page (@shopfamilyfare) will host a live Q&A session on Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. ET, where fans can ask food and nutrition questions to SpartanNash’s Living Well team.

Store guests are encouraged to share their own family meals using the hashtag #OurFamilyMeals.

“Sharing meals can improve a family’s health and well-being, because the more meals families share, the more likely they are to eat more fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods together,” said Tom Swanson, SpartanNash senior vice president and general manager, corporate retail. “At SpartanNash, we’re proud to do our part to support our store guests as they look for healthy, nutritious ways to bring their families together at the dinner table.

“From ready-to-cook healthy proteins to pre-cut fruits and vegetables and stir fry ingredients, our stores are stocked with ingredients to make it easier for time-starved families to enjoy a quick and easy meal together – all at budget friendly prices. During Family Meals Month and beyond, we hope all our store guests will be inspired to return to the kitchen to enjoy wholesome meals together.”

In 2017, SpartanNash earned the FMI Gold Plate Award for its support of Family Meals Month, recognizing its commitment to raising awareness of the importance of eating healthier and together as a family.

For more information about National Family Meals Month, visit fmi.org/family-meals-month

Snapshots: Kentwood, Wyoming news you ought to know

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism

By all these lovely tokens September days are here,

With summer’s best of weather

And autumn’s best of cheer


American poet and writer Helen Hunt Jackson



By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Luis Solis takes the last flight of the American Airlines MD-80 from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (WKTV)

On a Jet Plane

At 2:25 p.m. today there will be a special celebration at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport as airport officials and visitors say good-bye to one of the last American Airlines MD-80 aircrafts. The American Airlines is retiring the aircraft from its fleet. At one time, American Airlines had one of the largest fleets of MD-80s, which were considered the workhorse of the airlines industry. The American Airlines will scrap or sell off its MD-80s. Note, Delta still flies the MD-80 aircraft along with several foreign airlines. One local resident made sure to snag a ticket on the last flight. Read more about his story by clicking here.

Wyoming’s GM Component Holdings LLC gave out $30,000 in grants to three area charities. (WKTV)

Helping Hand

Three local organizations, the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), and Kid’s Food Basket were each presented with a $10,000 grant from the GM Components Holdings. The three organizations do a variety of work within the City of Wyoming. The Kid’s Food Basket provides sack suppers to at-risk students. WMEAC runs a watershed program at Godfrey-Lee Public Schools along with hosting the annual Mayor River Clean-Up and the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance will use the funds to purchase stand-alone speed monitors for the City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety. For more information, click here.

A family enjoyed the “Design Zone” exhibit, which is coming to the Grand Rapids Public Museum this fall. (Supplied)

Play Date!

With overwhelming positive feedback and popularity of its “TOYS!” exhibit, the Grand Rapids Public Museum announced it has extended the exhibit for another year. That’s right, you have another 365 days to check it out or re-visit the exhibit. The Museum, located at 272 Pearl St. NW, also announced that the popular “Bodies Revealed” would be returning this fall along with the new exhibit “Design Zone.” For more information, click here.

Helen Hunt Jackson (Wikipedia)

Who is Helen Hunt Jackson?

Helen Hunt Jackson was an American poet and writer, 1830-1885, who became an activist for the better treatment of Native Americans by the U.S. government. One of her most well-known books was “Ramona,” the story of a mixed-race Irish-Native American orphan girl who suffers racial discrimination and hardship. While popular for the way it romanized the Southern California area — which saw a tourism surge after the book’s release — the book is credit as a forerunner in helping to raise awareness of the plight of Native Americans and Mexican colonial life. Jackson wrote of her work that it was one of the only things “of which I have done that I am glad…they will live, and…bear fruit.” There have been more than 300 reissues of the book with it never being out of print since it was first published in 1884.

Call for entries for Klompen Garden 2020

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, ,
Courtesy Tulip Time Festival

By Simone Weithers, Tulip Time Festival


Tulip Time® Festival (www.tuliptime.com) announces the return of Klompen Garden, a hugely popular public art project which debuted in 2019. Klompen Garden will showcase 20 pairs of artfully designed large ‘wooden’ shoes installed in city parks and tulip beds throughout the downtown Holland area.


Artists living in Ottawa, Allegan, Kent, Muskegon and Kalamazoo counties are invited to submit a design concept and sketch for this one-of-a-kind art project. Concepts will be accepted through an online submission form until Oct. 14, 2019, at 11:59pm EST. Of the submitted concepts, 20 will be selected to create the Klompen Garden.


Tulip Time will supply each selected artist or group of collaborating artists with a large pair (34”L x 12”W x 12”H) of ‘wooden’ shoes, through which artists are encouraged to bring their concept to life.


Upon completion of the 20 projects, a juror vote and public vote will determine the favorite klompen. Tulip Time has invited John Berry to serve as this year’s Klompen Garden juror. Berry will select one grand prize winner who will be awarded $1,000 at the First Bloem Reception in February. The winning pair will be displayed at Holland Area Arts Council for the duration of the festival.


The public will also have a chance to vote for their favorites of the remaining 19 klompen between May 2–19, 2020. The top three public picks will be announced on May 10. Of the public votes, first place will be awarded $500, second place will be awarded $300 and third place will be awarded $200. Visit www.tuliptime.com/klompen-garden for full entry details and competition information!


For additional details, contact Julia Van Fleet at julia@tuliptime.com or 616.396.4221 x104. Follow this project now through the festival by using #klompengarden!

About the juror:

Former Vice President of Corporate Communications at Herman Miller, John Berry was also the founder and first Executive Director of Design West Michigan and founder and first Director of the Design Thinking Academy at Grand Valley State University. John has an MFA in Design from Cranbrook Academy of Art and a BS in Design and Spanish from Indiana University.




Those perilous pooches

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , , ,
Researchers have found that injuries sustained while dog walking—fractures, specifically—have jumped 163 percent in the 65 and older group over the past 15 years. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By E.J. Mundell, HealthDay


Walking the dog can be great exercise for seniors, but there could be one downside: fractures.


Fractures suffered by elderly Americans while walking their dogs have more than doubled in recent years, new research shows.


Still, taking your dog for a walk can also bring big health rewards, one joint specialist said.


“Pets can provide companionship for older adults—and the physical exercise from regularly walking a dog may improve other aspects of physical and psychological health,” said Dr. Matthew Hepinstall, who wasn’t involved in the new study.


“So, the risks of walking a dog should be balanced against potential benefits,” said Hepinstall, who helps direct joint surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.


The new research was led by Kevin Pirruccio, a second-year medical student at the University of Pennsylvania. His team tracked national data and found that among people aged 65 and older, fractures associated with walking leashed dogs rose from about 1,700 cases in 2004 to almost 4,400 cases in 2017—a 163 percent rise.


More than three-quarters of the fractures occurred in women, with hip and arm fractures being the most common. About half of all fractures occurred in the upper body, with fractures of the wrist, upper arm, finger and shoulder leading the way.


The most common type of fracture was a broken hip (17 percent). That’s cause for concern, Pirruccio’s team said, because the death rate linked to hip fractures in people older than 65 is close to 30 percent.


The researchers added that the study only involved data on fractures treated at emergency departments. The actual number of dog walking-related injuries among seniors might even be higher if injuries not typically seen in a hospital—for example, tendon or muscle tears—were factored in.

Why the rising rates of fractures tied to dog walking? The study authors theorized that increased pet ownership and a greater emphasis on physical activity for older adults may be driving the trend.


In a university news release, Pirruccio stressed that walking your pooch each day “has repeatedly demonstrated social, emotional and physical health benefits.” It’s also “a popular and frequently recommended activity for many older Americans seeking new ways to stay active,” he said.


On the other hand, “patients’ risks for falls must be factored into lifestyle recommendations in an effort to minimize such injuries,” Pirruccio said.


Hepinstall agreed.


“The take-home message for older adults and their families is that, when choosing to care for a pet, be sure to consider the strength and coordination of the older adult, and the size and expected behavior of the pet selected,” he advised.


Pet ownership and care may need to be re-assessed with age, Hepinstall added.


“When the mobility of older adults changes, they should be encouraged to re-evaluate their ongoing ability to care for any pets,” he said. “This will help ensure that the health and other needs of the adult and of the pet can be properly managed.”


The study was published recently in JAMA Surgery.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


Where to tempt your taste buds in West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Food, Local Business, Local Faces, Local Food, Recreation,
Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


There is no shortage of tasty things to tempt your taste buds in West Michigan. From farm-fresh produce, homemade goodies, and dockside dining to locally crafted brews, wines, and desserts, here are some mouthwatering options for you to try.


Find more foodie tips in our Carefree Travel Guide.

Southwest Michigan

Greater Lansing sets the table with diverse restaurants with locally sourced menu items that will tantalize your taste buds and take you for a trip around the globe. Whether you’re looking for some comfort food and enjoy Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives recommendations or enjoy a great food truck or a terrific farm-to-table experience, Greater Lansing is the perfect destination for your inner foodie. 


Head to Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings for BBQ, Music, and Family Game Night Sunday, Aug. 11th. Dinner is at 5pm, music and games 6-7:30pm. Come enjoy the last days of summer vacation with good food, great music provided by the Hastings Community Music School, lawn games, family-friendly relay races and more. Member adults $16, children $8; Non-member adults $19, children $10.


Home to many locally owned and operated diners, restaurants, and pubs, Coldwater Country is the place to grab a delicious quick breakfast, find a destination restaurant, or a gourmet dinner. 


Crane’s Pie Pantry bakery and restaurant offer farm-fresh products that will make you think it came right from grandma’s kitchen. Specializing in Michigan fruit pies and desserts, Crane’s bakery also includes bread, cinnamon rolls, muffins, cookies, apple cider donuts, and much more to make your mouth water. They offer a complete menu of handcrafted meals including soups, salads, and American mains, served in a historical surrounding of local memorabilia and antiques. Stop in to the Saugatuck Tasting Bar or Fennville Restaurant & Winery to grab a taste. 


Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Central West Michigan

If you’re in Mecosta County to tempt your taste buds, then you have come to the right place. With great food, good times, and phenomenal service, the restaurants throughout Mecosta County need to be scheduled into your next visit. For more places that will “Tempt Your Taste Buds”, check out the Mecosta County Restaurant Guide.


Bring the kids to Kitchen 242 at The Muskegon Farmers Market for a “Princess Party” with Chef Char Saturday, Aug. 10th from 10:30–11:30am. Bake cookies with Chef Char and Princess Tiana and Princess Elsa. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos with the princesses. Each little princess will roll, decorate, and bake a dozen princess-themed cookies to take home. This is for ages 5 and up. The cost is $45 and tickets are available through Eventbrite. 


Ludington dining options include ’50s diners, Italian restaurants, breweries, barbeque, and the best ice cream in the Midwest.


Herman’s Boy is a great Rockford stop for a made-to-order deli sandwich. Everything is done in-house, a 100-year-old farmhouse to be exact, from fresh baked bagels to smoked meat & cheeses. Herman’s Boy is also “Home of the Bagel Dog” — a German-style wiener wrapped in bagel dough and topped with the fixings of your choosing. Herman’s Boy is a local roastery, bakery, confectionary, deli, smokehouse, kitchen, grilling gadget shop. Be sure to check out these and other treats, snacks, and coffees all done in house.


Throughout the Holland area, you will find an array of dining options that are sure to satisfy any craving. Grab a slice of pie made with fresh Michigan fruits or enjoy a lake perch dinner. This year welcomed a few new restaurants to downtown, which include HopCat, and Sperry’s Moviehouse Restaurant. Click through for more information on Holland’s local dining options.


HopCat restaurants in West Michigan have launched new brunch and lunch menus for guests in need of either a quick weekday meal or a well-earned weekend fun day. The restaurant family’s 9 Under $9 lunch menu is a selection of quick-service items created for guests who have places to be and budgets to watch. It includes exciting new choices like the California Club Sandwich, Pork Tostadas, and the Dbl Smash Burger alongside updated HopCat favorites like the Madtown Grilled Cheese Sandwich and Better Living Through Tacos entrée, available from 11am to 2pm Monday-Friday, alongside HopCat’s regular menu. The restaurants have also unveiled new brunch menus with mouthwatering options. The updated selections are available at HopCat’s locations in Kalamazoo, Holland, and Grand Rapids, where the original downtown restaurant now serves brunch from its recently renovated kitchen.


Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Northwest Michigan

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Aerie Restaurant & Lounge is proud to announce its third consecutive Wine Spectator Award of Excellence win. Wine Spectator magazine bestows the Award of Excellence to restaurants with wine lists featuring at least 90 selections that include a well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.


From family friendly and casual to fine dining, Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire has what you crave. With stunning sunsets, award-winning steaks, pasta, and homemade desserts, The Lakeview Restaurant offers simple, local, social dining. Enjoy the Macadamia Crusted Whitefish, Twisted Pasta with shrimp and lobster, or a traditional steak. The River Bistro at Shanty Creek Resort offers a more casual atmosphere to enjoy burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and classic dinner entrees including fish & chips, salmon, stir-fry, and more. Enjoy a fresh-squeezed cocktail or one of more than 45 regional or international beers while playing pub games including foosball, darts, pool, and more. Both restaurants are also open for breakfast and lunch.


From daily Summer Nights on the Patio to al fresco dining in the estate vineyard, Black Star Farms near Suttons Bay has something for every palate.


Crystal Mountain’s Farm-to-Table dining series brings the fresh flavors of northern Michigan to the Thistle Pub & Grille at the resort in Thompsonville the third weekend of each month, May through September. Their chefs work with local farms, making personal visits to many of them, to build a custom three-course menu.


Come to Traverse City and enjoy the ultimate Bonobo Winery experience. Join Cornel, Bonobo’s winemaker, on the patio for a three-course lunch. Learn more about the wines paired with each course by the winemaker himself while taking in views of the rolling vineyard with Grand Traverse Bay in the distance. Picnic lunches in the vineyard are available at 12pm and 1:30pm Monday through Friday. Just reserve a table for $50 (seats up to six people), buy your lunch from the picnic menu, and select your favorite bottle of Bonobo wine. They’ll drive you out to your special place among the vines. Reservations recommended.


Click through for more mouth-watering places to try around West Michigan.




Own your future

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, ,
Picture yourself at some point in the future — on a cruise, at an event, or reaching a milestone. How do you want to look and feel? Make a plan to achieve your picture of self. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum Health Beat


Several years ago (well, a few more than several), when I was 39 years old and not happy with the size of scrubs I fit into at the hospital, I really began to think about how I wanted to be in the future.


I realized that if I couldn’t run a 5K or fit into yellow tie scrubs (the smaller scrubs) at 39, how would I be able to run a 5K or fit into anything I wanted to wear at age 60? So, I started to think about my future.


I am a very visual person, so I picked a specific age —53— and pictured myself at that age. When I am 53, my youngest child will graduate from high school, and I pictured myself at his graduation party. How did I want to look and feel at that age? At that party? To reach my goal, I knew my plan had to be very clear, so I sat down and started to develop my plan.


The following week, during a busy day in my office, I almost bumped into a patient as I rushed through the hallway.


I apologized and started to continue on my way when she stopped me and said, “You don’t remember me, do you?” I told her I did not recognize her, and she said, “During my appointment last year, you asked me how I wanted to be when I turned 50. I left your office and really thought about that question. I decided I wanted to be ‘hot’ — and now I am! I ran a 10K, and developed a new food plan that I love and can follow. I have so much more energy now, and I feel great!”


She looked amazing.


This patient really listened to what I had to say at her yearly physical, and she came up with a plan to reach a goal she set for herself.


The truth is that many women don’t have a plan for the future. It’s easy to think, “I will exercise and eat better tomorrow,” but tomorrow comes and nothing changes.


In addition, many women don’t have any plan, and they foolishly think that being healthy will just magically happen. Unfortunately, good health doesn’t just happen. It requires commitment and a detailed strategy.


This is true for all women, including those who are successful at work, successful at home and successful at being a good parent. But, all this success doesn’t mean they are also happy with their health, weight, or energy level. In other words, they don’t plan for themselves.


So, where should you begin? Every strong plan starts with a goal, and I recommend you call your goal your picture of self.


Picture of self is simply how you see yourself at a specific point in the future. It can be short term or long term—a college graduation, before you get pregnant, one year after the birth of your child, your daughter’s wedding, retirement, or an upcoming trip. It just needs to be a specific event or time where you can picture the event well and put yourself there figuratively.


You begin with visualizing the overall picture and then breaking it down into the fine details — the style of your hair, how it feels to walk into the event, how you interact with others in the room.


Creating your picture can help you start thinking about your own health both now and in the future. Then, make a plan for how to become that picture of self. Start today.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



ArtPrize announces ‘Project 1’ event schedule

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, ,
Photo by Jessica Swanson

By Margaret Paxton, ArtPrize


The public is invited to the official Project 1 free events happening Saturdays during the run of the exhibition.


From Sept. 7-Oct. 27, 2019, Project 1: Crossed Lines exhibition will occupy multiple outdoor sites in Grand Rapids, Michigan and will feature temporary public artworks by five artists. The seven-week run will be punctuated by a series of events, volunteer opportunities, educational programs and performances.


Each Saturday in September and the last week in October will feature a different program of free and open-to-the-public events that will activate the artists’ works in an unforgettable way. Many other exhibitions, community events and performances will be happening throughout the run of the exhibition.


“We couldn’t be more excited to partner with community members and organizations across the city to build out a spectacular set of events throughout September,” said Jori Bennett, executive director.


ArtPrize has also partnered with community partners to provide an even richer experience at each of the Saturday events. All Art Works is putting on an exhibition to provide connections between artists and art buyers. The WestSide StreetFair will be happening on Saturday, Sept. 14th that coincides with the run of Project 1. The Grand Rapids African American Art and Music Festival will also be happening on Saturday, Sept. 21 in Martin Luther King Park. 

“The Grand Rapids African American Art and Music Festival is thrilled to partner with ArtPrize again,” said Lisa Knight, Festival board chair and director of the Centers for Innovation, Health, Education, Youth and Community Engagement, at the Urban League of West Michigan.


“This will be the first time the Festival is held in Martin Luther King Jr. Park and the Project 1 installations there will provide exciting programming opportunities.”

Saturday, Sept. 7, presented by DTE Foundation

Join ArtPrize and the City of Grand Rapids for a day of one-of-a-kind performances and events. Begin at Rosa Parks Circle at noon to kick off the inaugural Project 1 exhibition with a headlining performance from BANDALOOP. From 2-5pm enjoy the Martin Luther King Jr Park community kick-off with a headlining performance by Jordan Hamilton.


While downtown, stop in to see the All Art Works Show: Great Art at Great Prices at 37 Ottawa Ave NW from 10am to 6pm — 200 artists of every career level are curated next to works by world-famous artists. The show is free and open to the public, and all artwork is for sale and priced for fledgling and experienced buyers. The show runs from Sept. 6 through 10.


Evening programming includes an artist panel hosted at Critical Infrastructure at the Tanglefoot site. After the talk, the Disability Drag Show, presented by DisArt, be taking place at a venue to be announced. 

Saturday, Sept. 14, presented by Meijer

Start the second weekend of Project 1 at the WestSide StreetFair on Broadway and Bridge from 11am to 6pm. Enjoy live music, art and educational activities for the whole family. Community partners John Ball Zoo, Experience Live Art, Artists Creating Together, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Comedy Project, Gilda’s Club and more will be there.


Be sure to check out Meijer’s Grand Taste Truck sited at Rosa Parks Circle, which will be giving food and household items out. There will be art activities happening from 11am to 3pm.

Then don’t miss an unforgettable evening of light, sound and community at this one-night-only performance at Blue Bridge Amplified, presented by Founder’s Brewing Company. Electronic beat-maker and headliner, Dan Deacon, as well as an array of local artists and musicians will take over Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s Voice Bridge, activating the sound system and 400+ lights that will traverse Grand Rapids’s iconic Blue Bridge from 8-11pm. 

Saturday, Sept. 28, presented by DisArt and SiTE:LAB

For the final Saturday in September, join DisArt and its collaborators as they present Voices an immersive, multimedia project displayed and interacted with throughout the Tanglefoot site. Designed as both an aesthetic and archiving experience, Voices will gather and visualize stories of alienation and belonging from Disabled community members as well as visitors to the site. The event runs from noon to 10pm, and all are encouraged to attend and participate. 

Saturday, Oct. 26

Join us at Studio Park to celebrate the final weekend of Project 1. The evening will kick off with a press conference where several exciting announcements will be made for ArtPrize 2020. The evening will unfold to feature live music in the Studio Park Listening Room.

About Project 1 by ArtPrize

The ArtPrize organization produces open citywide contemporary art experiences that encourage critical discourse, celebrate artists, transform urban space and promote cultural understanding. Project 1: Crossed Lines is the first in a series of multi-sited public art exhibitions to take place between biennial ArtPrize competitions.


For more information, visit artprize.org.







Resident takes final GR flight of American Airlines MD-80

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, ,
Luis Solis surrounded by some of the commercial airplane models that he owns. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey” which holds true for Grand Rapids resident Luis Solis.

Solis has a ticket for a very special flight — one of the last flights of the American Airlines MD-80. American Airlines announced several months ago it would retire the last of its 26 McDonnell Douglas MD-80 aircrafts, also known as the Super 80 or Mad Dog.

“When I first heard about it, I was like they are going to retire the MD-80, too sad,” said Solis, a commercial airplane aficionado who easily admits he sometimes books a flight based on the type of aircraft being used. The announcement came and went but then, American Airlines released the schedule of the final revenue (passenger) flights for the iconic plane.

“When I opened up the schedule and saw that there was a flight leaving from Grand Rapids on Sept. 3, I just began to take a look to see if there were seats and, well I was able to get one.”

The flight is scheduled to leave at 2:25 p.m. Sept. 3 from the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and will land in Fort Wayne, Texas, the final destination for many of the American Airlines’ MD-80s. 

The rare opportunity of an American Airlines MD-80 taking its last flight out of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport inspired Luis Solis to purchase a ticket for the Sept. 3 flight.
Knowing it planned to retire the MD-80, American Airlines did not update the aircraft’s exterior logos. (Wikipedia)

There is some sentimental value as well in taking the flight as the aircraft was an instrumental key to the U.S.’s current air transportation system, Solis said.

A deal in 1982 between the MD-80’s maker, McDonnell Douglas, and American Airlines is credited for saving both the companies from financial ruin. Considered a workhorse, the aircraft was crucial to American Airlines planned growth in the 1980s that included the hub concept with the carrier being able to service smaller markets such as Grand Rapids. Other airlines soon followed American Airlines lead, purchasing the MD-80. 

About anyone who flew in the 1980s or 1990s probably has done so on the MD-80, especially if they took an American Airlines flight. American Airlines had the largest fleet of the aircraft, with more than 250. That number grew to around 380 — about 40 percent of the airline’s fleet — when American Airlines acquired TWA in 2001. 

Because the aircraft was so common, it was associated with many fond memories for those who piloted it and were along for the ride.

“MD-80 was often the one that was taking me to my vacation or bringing me back from my vacation. It was simple and it had a smooth ride,” Solis said. “It didn’t have all the amenities that new planes have but I loved it. It is one of those planes that when you saw it, you just knew what you were going to fly.”

Time marches on and the global fleet of MD-80s started to age with American Airlines being the first to stop investing in the aircraft. The newer aircrafts are quieter and offer more entertainment amenities.

And while American Airlines is retiring its MD-80s, you still will see them in the sky. Delta, along with several foreign airlines, still utilize the aircraft and the MD-80s also are used as cargo planes. 

When a U.S. airline retires an aircraft after decades of service any one of three things can happen: the aircraft can be immediately destroyed and the metal recycled; the aircraft can sit in the dry graveyard in California’s Mojave Desert; or the aircraft can be re-sold to air services in smaller, foreign countries.

The combination that this is one of the last MD-80 flights for American Airlines, which is credited with helping to develop today’s high frequency pattern of air service, and it is leaving from Grand Rapids, a rarity for last flights, makes the Sept. 3 truly an adventure, Solis said. 

“It really is about the journey,” Solis said. “To know that sometime in the past I rode this and that this is it, this is the last time; it is like somebody retiring. It’s done.”

Sleep deprivation may play role in loneliness

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, , ,
Nearly half of Americans feel lonely or left out—increasing the risk of early death by more than 45 percent, and doubling the risk of obesity. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


Sleep problems can play havoc with your social life, a new study suggests.


A series of experiments revealed sleep-deprived people feel lonelier and less eager to engage with others. That, in turn, makes others less likely to want to socialize with the sleep-deprived, researchers said.


The researchers also found that well-rested people feel lonely after spending just a short time with a sleep-deprived person, which suggests that social isolation caused by sleep problems may be contagious, according to the investigators at the University of California, Berkeley.


These findings are the first to show a two-way link between poor sleep and social isolation, offering new insight into what the researchers called a global loneliness epidemic.


“We humans are a social species. Yet sleep deprivation can turn us into social lepers,” study senior author Matthew Walker said in a university news release. He is a professor of neuroscience and psychology.


Brain scans of sleep-deprived people watching videos of strangers walking toward them showed heightened activity in networks typically activated when people feel their personal space is being invaded, the researchers found.


Sleep deprivation also reduced activity in brain regions that normally encourage social engagement, the findings showed.


“The less sleep you get, the less you want to socially interact. In turn, other people perceive you as more socially repulsive, further increasing the grave social-isolation impact of sleep loss,” Walker explained.


“That vicious cycle may be a significant contributing factor to the public health crisis that is loneliness,” he added.


Surveys suggest that nearly half of Americans feel lonely or left out. And loneliness increases the risk of early death by more than 45 percent, double the risk associated with obesity, research shows.


According to study lead author Eti Ben-Simon, “It’s perhaps no coincidence that the past few decades have seen a marked increase in loneliness and an equally dramatic decrease in sleep duration.” She is a postdoctoral fellow in Walker’s Center for Human Sleep Science.


“Without sufficient sleep, we become a social turn-off, and loneliness soon kicks in,” Ben-Simon said.


The study did offer a reason for optimism: A good night’s sleep makes a rapid difference.


Walker said that “just one night of good sleep makes you feel more outgoing and socially confident, and furthermore, will attract others to you.”


The study was published in the journal Nature Communications.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Cat of the week: Lyanna

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , ,
The perfect mix of sweet and sassy — that’s Lyanna

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


Gratiot Area Animals in Need (G.A.I.N.) contacted us in early July of 2019 in hopes of us being able to accommodate a FIV+ girl they had in their foster program. Although she had been with them since April, she wasn’t tested until her spay appointment in June, and when her viral status was discovered, they were in need of locating a shelter, such as ours, that caters to their special status. The only way the virus can be transmitted is through bite wounds, so at some point she was injured by another cat.


Lyanna hasn’t a mean bone in her lovely three-year-old body (born in the summer of 2016); in fact, she has proven to be one of our most outgoing, gregarious girls. In the words of our volunteers:


“Lyanna definitely goes against the “torti rules” by being the sweetest little thing. She enjoys gazing through the French doors to the lobby just waiting for one of the volunteers to pop in, scoop her up, and give her the attention she adores so much. She loves to follow us around and watch everything that is going on. I’ve seen her sass a few of the bigger boys and stand her ground when challenged, but she is not at all physically aggressive. She’d make the perfect companion for a home with kids, maybe a smaller dog, (she was fostered with dogs) and access to plenty of playtime. I’d worry a little about her trying to get outside because she does try her darnedest to sneak in to the lobby on occasion, so that should be taken into consideration.”

That. Face.

“Lyanna is the perfect mix of sweet and sassy. She loves people, but doesn’t have a ton of time to be held or sit in laps, as there is just too much to do! She is very playful and loves to chase bell toys around. She will sometimes play with other cats, but other times she wants nothing to do with them. She has one of the biggest appetites of all our residents—probably to fuel her high level of energy!”


We firmly believe that being FIV+ is not going to hinder her from finding a home as her charming personality, pawsitively stunning looks, and non-torti temperament (they are typically quite opinionated and, shall we say, less than agreeable) make her an awesome candidate for companionship. A word of friendly advice: don’t miss out on the chance to make lovely Lyanna yours!

More about Lyanna:

  • Tortoiseshell & Domestic Short Hair Mix
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • FIV+
  • Spayed
  • Good in a home with other cats, dogs, children

Want to adopt Lyanna? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

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

Local Noodles restaurant focuses on fighting childhood hunger during Hunger Action Month

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , ,
This year, Noodles officials are hoping to raise $550,000 national for No Kid Hungry. (Wikipedia)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Grand Rapids-based Pasta Per Trio, the Michigan franchisee of Noodles & Company, announced today that it will partner with No Kid Hungry® for the fourth consecutive year to help end childhood hunger in America. 

By donating $2 to the nonprofit campaign at participating Noodles restaurants through Sept. 24, guests will receive a coupon for a free Shareable item to enjoy on their next visit. In addition, Noodles will match every $2 donation made on August 28. Each $2 donation helps supply 20 meals to kids in need. There are two Noodles locations near the Wyoming/Kentwood area, 3871 Rivertown Pkwy SW, Grandville, 5070 28th St. SE, and 2289 East Beltline, Grand Rapids.

Locally, the No Kid Hungry® campaign supports children who attend Grand Rapids Public Schools and Kelloggsville Public Schools.

There are two Noodles and Company restaurants in Grand Rapids, the one above is located in Grandville and there is another on the East Beltline and one on 28th Street.

Studies by No Kid Hungry® indicate that one in six kids experiences hunger on a regular basis and that 95 percent of teachers believe hunger impacts their students’ ability to succeed. In addition, 77 percent of teachers directly correlate hunger with poor academic performance. With the start of the academic year, Noodles believes there is no better time than now to support families struggling to afford enough food for their families.

“In 2018, Noodles & Company guests in Michigan donated more than $25,000 to make an impact on childhood hunger,” said Tom Shephard, vice president of Pasta Per Trio, the Michigan Noodles & Company franchisee. “We’re proud to serve great food and believe there is no reason any child in Michigan should be hungry. With the help of our guests, we’re committed to doing our part for families in need in our state.”

With the help of its guests, Noodles has donated nearly $1.7 million, or approximately 17 million meals, to No Kid Hungry® since 2016. This year, the company hopes to raise more than $550,000 nationally.

On Wednesday, Sept. 4, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Noodles will also participate in ‘No Kid Hungry Live with Busy Philipps,’ a livestreamed variety show. The show will feature funny moments and games, interviews, and a special money-can’t-buy giveaway experience offered by No Kid Hungry/Dine at Noodles & Company to one lucky viewer. The 90-minute show will stream on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Viewers must visit NoKidHungry.org/Dine to enter for a chance to win the sweepstakes and to find participating restaurants. The sweepstakes will run Sept. 4 – 30.

Alzheimer’s research eyes rogue proteins

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Health, Senior Living, ,
Researchers believe that Alzheimer’s disease may be a double-prion disorder in which two rogue proteins destroy the brain. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


With findings that might alter the path of Alzheimer’s research, scientists say misfolded forms of two proteins appear to spread through patients’ brains similar to an infection.


The findings suggest that Alzheimer’s is a “double-prion” disorder. This discovery could help lead to new treatments that focus directly on prions, according to researchers from the University of California, San Francisco.


A prion is a misshapen protein that can force other copies of that protein into the same misfolded shape and spread in the brain.


It’s best known for its role in bovine spongiform encephalopathy—”mad cow” disease—and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a degenerative brain disorder.


In the new research, the university team analyzed the brains of 75 Alzheimer’s patients after death and found self-propagating prion forms of the proteins amyloid beta and tau. Higher amounts of these prions were associated with early-onset Alzheimer’s and younger age at death.


Alzheimer’s patients have amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, but efforts to treat the disease by clearing out these inactive proteins have failed.


These new findings suggest that active amyloid beta and tau prions could drive Alzheimer’s and offer targets for effective treatment, according to the researchers.


“I believe this shows beyond a shadow of a doubt that amyloid beta and tau are both prions and that Alzheimer’s disease is a double-prion disorder in which these two rogue proteins together destroy the brain,” said study senior author Dr. Stanley Prusiner, director of the UCSF Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases.


Prusiner won a Nobel Prize in 1997 for discovering that prions were responsible for mad cow disease and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.


Prion levels also appear linked to patient longevity, he noted.


“We need a sea change in Alzheimer’s disease research and that is what this paper does. This paper might catalyze a major change in AD research,” Prusiner said in a university news release.


For this study, the researchers used recently developed laboratory tests to rapidly measure prions in human tissue samples. They can reveal infectious prion levels in just days.


These tests “are a game-changer,” said study co-author William DeGrado, a UCSF professor of pharmaceutical chemistry.


In order to develop effective therapies and diagnostics, scientists must target the active prion forms, rather than the large amount of protein in plaques and tangles, DeGrado said.


The researchers hope that measuring the prion forms of amyloid beta and tau might lead to the development of drugs that either prevent them from forming or spreading, or help remove them before they cause damage.


The study was published recently in the journal Science Translational Medicine.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


Affording health care costs: Part 3

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , ,

By Brenda Long, Michigan State University Extension


You have health insurance, but not all expenses are included in the insurance premium. Doctor visits, medicine, braces and glasses are some expenses you may have to pay. The good news is there are ways to manage your health care costs to save money. This article will focus on health Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Also, look for related articles on reasons to have health insurance (Part 1) and health savings accounts (Part 4).


Setting money aside to manage health care expenses helps reduce your need to use credit to pay medical bills and reduces your concerns that you can cover a bill, according to the University of Maryland Extension. You can save money in your emergency fund. You might qualify for a health Flexible Spending Account (FSA).


Health Flexible Spending Accounts allow you to contribute pre-tax dollars and then be reimbursed for qualified medical expenses based on IRS code. FSA accounts are only offered through employer’s benefits plan packages; you cannot open one as an individual consumer. Typically, you enroll once a year during your employer’s open enrollment season. The amount you choose is automatically deducted from your paycheck and is placed in an account managed by a third-party agency.


You choose the amount to save, up to certain dollar limits. It is important to plan carefully and not put more money in your FSA than you think you will spend during the year on things like co-payments, coinsurance, prescriptions and other allowed health care costs. Otherwise you may lose any money left over in your FSA.


How do you figure out how much to contribute? A good place to start is to calculate your out-of-pocket expenses for the past year. You can get this information from receipts, looking at your explanation of benefits, or obtaining a print out from your doctors’ offices and pharmacy for all visits and prescription purchases. Use the worksheet or online health care cost calculator.

Other articles in this series:

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).


Tend those tiny toes

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, ,
More oft than not, your toe problems can be traced back to an ill-fitting shoe. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Sarah Mahoney, Spectrum Health Beat


Toes may well be the most neglected parts on our body, but when something goes wrong they can generate plenty of pain.


And for those who like a good workout—running, hiking, soccer, walking and the like—these peanut-sized digits take it on the chin.


While a variety of things can go wrong with your toes, there is a single preventive solution to almost all of them: The right shoe in the right size, said John Harris, DPM, a foot and ankle surgery specialist with Spectrum Health Medical Group Orthopedics.


“You should wear the appropriate shoe for your activity and it needs to fit well,” Dr. Harris said. “There should be a thumb’s distance between the end of your longest toe—whether that’s the big or second toe—and the end of the shoe.”


A general athletic shoe is OK for low-level participation in any sport, but Dr. Harris recommends upgrading to a sport-specific shoe the moment you become serious about a workout.


Ill-fitting shoes are the source of many problems.


With every step, you wind up bashing the front of your toe into the shoe, causing micro-injuries that soon add up to significant issues.


This causes two of the most common toe woes: injured toenails and callouses.

Injured toenails

They go by the not-so-catchy name of subungual hematoma—a collection of blood under the nail. These wounds stem from some kind of insult, often from poorly fitting shoes.


If they are painful, have a doctor check them out.


“Sometimes, we can drain the blood out and reduce pain,” Dr. Harris said.


Even when these toenail injuries don’t hurt, healing requires some patience. It can take eight months to a year for a toenail to replace itself.

Callouses

People often accept callouses as inevitable because of the shape of their toes.


Dr. Harris said underlying conditions, such as hammertoe, certainly make callouses more prevalent.


But properly fitting shoes can prevent this problem.


Treatment for painful callouses includes modifying the style and fit of the shoe. In some cases, surgery is needed to straighten the toe. (Wondering what the difference is between a callous and corn? Nothing—a corn is just lay terminology.)


See a provider about any stubborn toe pain and rethink the way you shop for shoes. Check and double-check the fit, keeping in mind that sizes can vary from model to model.


Runners and soccer players are particularly prone to the smaller-is-better myth, resulting in plenty of toe problems.


According to Nike, the behemoth shoe manufacturer, about 60% of Americans are walking around in shoes of the wrong size.


If you’ve got growing kids, Dr. Harris suggests using the same fit-test on them at least twice a year.


“Kids’ sizes change so fast that parents have to be vigilant,” he said. “I do the thumb test on my kids at the start of every sport season. If their toes are smashing against the end of the shoe, they need a new pair.”


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


Raise a glass to a weekend experience that explores the other Michigan beverage: wine

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment
Going on a wine tour: Media representatives were from WKTV, Grander Magazine, and Grow. (Photo: Sam Cooper Photography)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org
Some photos by Sam Cooper Photography

When someone says wine tours, you might immediately think Traverse City or Sutton Bay area, but probably not in your own backyard of Greater Grand Rapids.

For Kris Mathis and his wife Chawntrell, both avid wine drinkers and who have been on a number of wine tours, having just such a tour in Grand Rapids made sense. 

“People were like how are you going to create this wine experience when there are no wineries?” Mathis said. “What we do have in Grand Rapids is a rich, diverse restaurant scene many of which serve an array of wines from all over the world.”

So Mathis decided to incorporate the restaurants into a wine tour that celebrates the city’s rich diversity of food and culture. The public quickly embraced the tours, which is appropriately called Raise A Glass Wine Tours. The popularity of these weekend events, many of which have sold out, has encouraged Mathis to expand to include a walking tour that makes stops at downtown’s House of Wine and Bar Divani.

No matter what tour you attend, Mathis said it is all about the experience and breaking down the barriers to wine tasting and enjoyment.

“People view wine tastings as you have to have a certain level of knowledge, which is not true,” Mathis said, adding that when people sign up for a Raise A Glass tour, they are asked about their level of knowledge along with if there are any food allergies. 

“Often times when my wife and I would go to wine pairings or tours, we would be the only African-American couple in the room,” Mathis said. “I saw the tours as way to introduce more people into the world of wine where sometimes they feel like it is over their head.”

Mathis added that the ulitmate goal is to make everyone feel welcome enough to share their experiences and thoughts regardless of their expertise. 

What to expect?



Recently Mathis and his wife were host to a media tour that was A Taste of Culture Dinner Tour. The program, which takes about four hours, includes three stops: Forty Acres Soul Kitchen, 1059 Wealthy St. SE; St. Julian Winery – Rockford Tasting Room, 4425 14 Mile Rd. NE; and House of Wine, 53 Monroe Center St. NW. 

The entire venture is like a progressive-style meal with the first having appetizers, the second, a small plate meal, and the third, dessert. All the pairings were small plates and to be honest, all the restaurant hosts offered more than just what was on the menu. In fact, owners and representatives were on hand to talk about the food and wines, answer questions, and discuss trends in the industry. 

  • Kris Mathis and his wife Chawntrell
  • Forty Acres Soul Kitchen Chef Trimell Hawkins
  • Salmon Chowder Soup at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen
  • Earl Stevens’ Tropiscato at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen
  • Nashville Hot Chicken at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen
  • Meochia Thompson and her daughter Disha Roddy at Forty Acres Soul Kitchen

Forty Acres Soul Kitchen

1059 Wealthy St. SE

fortyacresgr.com

Our hosts from Here.To.Serve, a local hospitality company, commented on how much they love going to Forty Acres because the experience is never the same. In fact, Holland-raised Chef Trimell Hawkins delivered an incredible sampling of food from a watermelon salad to Nashville Hot Chicken (which I did not know you could get in Grand Rapids). 

Co-owner Lewis Williams came to the table to talk about the night’s presentation which he said focused on traditional African-American soul food that has been upscaled paired with wines from African-American-owned wineries such as Earl Stevens, better known as rapper E-40, who had a twist on the moscato called Tropiscato. 

  • St. Julian Winery offers more than just wine.
  • Cheers with the A&G Reserve brandy
  • Guest Becky DeYoung and Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
  • The Brushetta from Flo’s Wood Fired Pizza

St. Julian Winery – Rockford Tasting Room

4425 14 Mile Rd. NE.

www.stjulian.com

floswoodfired.com

St. Julian Winery is a familiar name to many Michigan residents having operated in the Paw Paw area for almost 100 years. More recently, the winery entered into a joint venture with Flo’s Wood Fired Pizza and thus the tasting room in Rockford was opened last year. Brushetta, Caponata (an eggplant dip) and cheese bread from Flo’s menu were paired with wines from St. Julian which included a Pinot Grigio, Michcato, and Red Sangria. 

Another item people may not know is that St. Julian also has its own line of spirits, A&G Reserve, which has been aged in Hungarian and French barrels. The winery also has a line of ciders.

  • Come on in: House of Wine
  • At the House of Wine

House of Wine

53 Monroe Center St. NW

houseofwinegr.com

Tucked neatly along Monroe Center, House of Wine is a  father-daughter team of Jim and Emily Lynch. Opened in December 2018, House of Wine offers more than 70 wines that are from Michigan and beyond. The reason for the range is to allow patrons to discover what they like and to be able to venture out of their confront zone.

For us, it was samplings of a Canard Duchene Champagne, a Chateau de Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc, and a Napa Valley Quilt Cabernet Sauvignon paired with a three-generation recipe cheesecake — all of which made for a nice conclusion to the evening. 

Kris Mathis with WKTV host Meochia Thompson, WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma and Becky DeYoung (Sam Cooper Photography)

Wrap Up



The tours are all inclusive so the $129.99 per person covers all the wine tasting fees, six different wine tastings, dinner small plates at each location, a wine tour guide and gratuity along with some other amenities. The walking tour, which is $74.99, includes the same amenities except there is no transportation as you walk to the different locations. To contact Raise A Glass Wine Tours, visit raiseaglasstours.com.

 

Mathis said expansion is definitely in the future which is mostly focused on building the brand of Raise Your Glass. He has no intention of moving into beer, a market that has a number of tour and tasting opportunities. He also noted that beer and cider changes the tour and he wants to continue to provide that luxury experience (which includes a Mercedes 12-seat bus) for people to explore wine and its many facets.

And in a city that is known for its beer, it is nice to know there is another option that celebrates the state’s long history of wine making by not only presenting Michigan wines but expanding upon it to give residents a better understanding of the global affair with wine.

Get a grip on hand pain

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , ,
Hand pain can be a sign of serious conditions. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Len Canter, HealthDay


You use your hands nearly every minute of the day, so any time they hurt it’s important to find out why.


Certain conditions can affect people who do the same hand movements for hours every day. Repetitive strain injury can cause pain in muscles, nerves and tendons.


Carpal tunnel syndrome swelling compresses a key nerve. The lesser known de Quervain’s tenosynovitis typically affects tendons on the inner sides of the wrist.


An autoimmune disease like rheumatoid arthritis often causes joint pain. Without treatment, it can lead to deformities in your hands. The wrist and finger joints are common targets of osteoarthritis, which occurs over time from normal wear-and-tear.


Treatment might start with an over-the-counter or prescription NSAID to temporarily relieve pain, but their long-term use has been linked to side effects such as liver or kidney damage and elevated heart attack risk.


Stronger medications may be needed to stop a degenerative disease like rheumatoid arthritis. Corticosteroid injections are an occasional option to reduce inflammation.


Heat can ease stiffness while a cold pack can relieve soreness.


If you have a chronic condition, an occupational therapist can teach you how to limit stress on joints when using your hands. During a flare, he or she might suggest a splint to stabilize your hand.


Sometimes surgery is needed.


Dupuytren’s contracture, a thickening under the skin on the palm of the hand, can develop into firm lumps that cause fingers to bend inward. Unless lumps are removed early, it may be impossible to straighten fingers later on. If other options don’t help carpal tunnel and de Quervain’s, surgery might be the answer.


Many conditions worsen without appropriate treatment, so don’t delay in seeing your doctor or a hand specialist.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


As 2019-20 season draws near, St. Cecilia Music Center adds two folk concerts

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Reviews, Upcoming Events, ,
Rosanne Cash and her husband, musician/composer John Leventhal in concert. (Supplied by the artist)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

The pending arrival of September means the busy October beginning of St. Cecilia Music Center’s 2019-20 concert season is just a few weeks away. And while the impressive Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and jazz series lineups have been set and on sale for months, there have been two recent additions the Acoustic Café Folk Series you might have missed.

The Infamous Stringdusters. (Supplied/Aaron Farrington)

After a busy October for the folk series — with Lee Ann Womack opening the fall season on Oct. 3 followed by an encore visit by Judy Collins on Oct. 20 — the folk series has added nights with The Infamous Stringdusters and Rosanne Cash to an already busy February 2020 folk feast on the Royce Auditorium stage.

After the Stringdusters on Feb. 6 and Cash on Feb. 20, Chris Thile will visit on Feb. 25 and Raul Midón on Feb. 27 — and doesn’t a night of folk music sound perfect for a midwinter escape from the weather?

St. Cecilia also says “additional folk series concerts may be announced for the 2019/2020 season.”

While the Stringdusters are a good get for St. Cecilia, the addition of Rosanne Cash is a sure sell-out.

“We are delighted to feature Rosanne Cash and her husband, musician/composer John Leventhal in concert,” Cathy Holbrook, St. Cecilia Music Center executive director, said in supplied material. “With both of their many achievements and personal work together, this will be a very special evening.”

Cash is touring in support of her most recent release, “She Remembers Everything”, which is described as “a poetic, lush and soulful collection of songs of personal songwriting and reflection.”

Rosanne Cash (Supplied by the artist)

“There is a woman’s real life, complex experiences and layered understanding, in these songs,” Cash said in supplied material. “I could not have written them 10 years ago …time is shorter, I have more to say.”

“She Remembers Everything” was produced by collaborator and husband Leventhal and Tucker Martine (who has worked with The Decembrists, My Morning Jacket, Mavis Staples, Neko Case).

One of the country’s pre-eminent singer/songwriters, Cash has released 15 albums of that have earned 4 Grammy Awards and 11 nominations, as well as 21 top 40 hits, including 11 No. 1 singles. In 2015, she was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters’ Hall of Fame. She also currently writing the lyrics for a musical “Norma Rae” with Leventhal serving as composer and John Weidman as book writer. (More about the artist at rosannecash.com .)

In addition to the folk series, the jazz series will open in October as well, with Fred Hersch featuring special guest Julian Lage coming on Oct. 17, followed in the new year by Emmet Cohen’s Master Legacy Series featuring Benny Golson on Jan. 16, Luciana Souza on March 5, and The Clayton Brothers — a must-hear for jazz fans — on April 16.

We will have to wait for November for St. Cecilia to raise the curtains on the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center series, with a program titled “Great Innovators” on Nov. 21. The final two concerts will be “French Enchantment” on Jan. 23 and “From Prague to Vienna” on April 30.

Tickets to all shows are still available and can be purchased by calling St. Cecilia Music Center at 616-459-2224 or visiting the box office at 24 Ransom Ave. NE. Tickets can also be purchased online at scmc-online.org.  Many concerts have a post-concert “Meet-the-artist” party with a cash bar will be offered to all ticket-holders.

Do you know your ‘body time’?

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, ,
Misaligned body clocks have been tied to a wide range of illnesses, including diabetes, obesity, depression, heart disease and asthma. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Dennis Thompson, HealthDay


No matter what your watch says, your body may be on a whole other schedule. Now, scientists say they’ve created a blood test that pinpoints the timing of your own internal clock.


The TimeSignature test evaluates dozens of genes to reveal an individual’s “circadian rhythm”—the crests and troughs that occur throughout the day as your body and brain cycle between sleepiness and alertness.


“Everyone’s clock ticks at a different rate. If you want to do personalized medicine, knowing the clock time of the patient is very important,” said sleep expert Dr. Mark Wu, of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.


Two blood samples taken about 12 hours apart could provide a solid estimate of your internal clock, said lead researcher Rosemary Braun.


“By looking at a set of 40 different genes that are expressed in blood, we can pinpoint a person’s internal clock to within an hour and a half,” said Braun. She’s an assistant professor of preventive medicine at Northwestern University School of Medicine in Chicago.


Easy and accurate assessment of a patient’s body clock could potentially help doctors treat more than just sleep disorders, experts said.


For example, cholesterol-lowering statin drugs work better when a person is winding down, because the enzyme they block is more active in the evening, said Wu, who wasn’t involved in the current study.


There’s also some evidence that chemotherapy works better when administered at specific times of day when cancer cells are actively dividing, added Wu, an associate professor of neurology.


Your internal biological clock orchestrates processes in nearly every organ system throughout the body. Anyone who has worked a night shift or flown overseas can tell you the entire body is thrown off kilter when your internal body clock doesn’t match the timing of the external world.


Until now it’s been extremely cumbersome to precisely determine an individual’s circadian rhythm, said Dr. Steven Feinsilver, director of sleep medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. He played no role in the new research.


Doctors can take urine or saliva samples from a patient every hour for a day or two and measure levels of melatonin or cortisol, hormones closely related to the sleep/wake cycle, Feinsilver and Wu said.


The other option is to use a rectal probe to monitor core body temperature for a day or so, the experts said.


“The current approach clinically is impractical and costly,” Braun said. “It requires multiple samples across the day and night. That makes it really burdensome to the patient and expensive to do.”


Northwestern University researchers evaluated about 20,000 genes to determine which ones are most closely linked to the rhythms of the body, Braun said.


They pared their test down to 40 genes that told internal time most accurately. Then they developed a computer process that reads those genes to establish an individual’s circadian rhythm.


“Some of them are known clock genes. Others are genes that are not directly related to the clock, but we know they’re under circadian control,” Braun said. “Between 30 and 40 percent of genes fluctuate over the course of the day, in keeping with that clock. That’s the signal we’re picking up.”


Blood samples for the test can be taken any time of day. And the test is accurate whether or not you’ve had a good or poor night’s sleep, researchers said.


Northwestern has filed for a patent on the blood test. The test will need more validation before it’s put on the market for clinical use, but it’s now available for free to other researchers for use in scientific studies, Braun said.


Misaligned body clocks have been tied to a wide range of illnesses, including diabetes, obesity, depression, heart disease and asthma, researchers said.


“We might be able to predict ahead of time who is at risk of getting sick before they develop symptoms,” Braun said.


This test also could have applications outside medicine. For example, employers could use it to design the best shift schedule for their workers by sorting out early birds and night owls, Feinsilver said.


The study is in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Daylilies are a smart choice for many difficult garden locations

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, How-To's, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living, ,
Daylily ‘Open Hearth’ is a wonderful contrast to Hosta’s violet blooms. Photo by Rebecca Finneran, MSU Extension.

By Rebecca Krans, Michigan State University Extension


If you are searching for an extremely hardy, salt-tolerant and durable perennial that can withstand many different site conditions, then the daylily is for you. As I travel across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in my role as a consumer horticulture educator for Michigan State University Extension, the daylily continues to amaze me. Frequenting busy curbsides to countryside mailboxes, it returns year after year. From curbsides battered by heavy snow loads, salt spray and sometimes compacted conditions, we applaud their resiliency. Consider daylilies as a smart choice for your difficult site.

What is a daylily?

Providing both colorful blooms and green foliage, the daylily can provide a nice backdrop for other perennials and annuals, or it can stand alone. Each bloom only lasts a day, hence the name “daylily.” Many different colors, sizes, heights and time of bloom are available. There are even some night blooming ones that are fragrant.


Deer do enjoy eating the blossoms, so be sure to use deterrents or fencing to keep your plants safe. The blossoms are edible for humans too.

Why are daylilies a smart choice?

Daylily Swallow tail
Close up of daylily ‘Swallow tail kite.’ Photo by Rebecca Finneran, MSU Extension.

Daylilies prove adaptable to many soil conditions although they prefer moist, well-drained soil with organic matter. If your soil is droughty, they will benefit from a layer of organic mulch such as shredded bark or ground leaves. Daylilies perform best with at least six hours of direct sun, but they will tolerate light shade.


If you have a sloped area, daylilies will be a smart choice as they will fill in the area and reduce erosion. They are great choice for the “don’t fight the site” Smart Gardening advice. For best results, divide every three to five years. They require minimal care and maintenance, and few insects and diseases affect them. Read Daylily flower power! Late season care for jewel of the garden to learn more.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).




Alabama postpones 50th Anniversary Tour

Citizen Journalism, Upcoming Events
Courtesy Alabama

By Hilarie Carpenter, SMG


Country Music Hall of Fame group Alabama has postponed the remainder of its 50th Anniversary Tour, including the concert scheduled for Friday, Aug. 23, 2019, at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, MI, due to lead singer Randy Owen’s ongoing complications with cluster migraines and vertigo. The group had hoped to continue its record-breaking 50-city tour, however, doctors have advised more time is needed for Owen to fully recover.


Today, ALABAMA bass player and vocalist Teddy Gentry released the following statement:


“The 50th Anniversary Tour has been very special to us. The support of the fans and their energy at all of our shows has led to some of the most fun we’ve ever had onstage. As disappointed as myself, Randy, and Jeff are to have to postpone this tour for all of our incredible fans, we know that Randy’s recovery is what is most important for everyone at this time. We would like to thank our fans, promoters, and venues and we look forward to seeing you all soon.”


Rescheduled dates for the tour will be announced in the coming weeks.



Dancing, food, fun: Dozynki Polish Harvest Festival in GR Aug. 23-25

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local Food, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events,
Courtesy Polish Heritage Society of Grand Rapids

By Matt Gryczan


In honor of the 40th anniversary of its annual Dozynki Polish Harvest Festival, the Polish Heritage Society of Grand Rapids has turbocharged the free event this upcoming weekend with top-notch entertainment and demonstrations of Polish cooking, dance and crafts.


This year, the festival features:

  • Polka dance lessons, led by instructors from the P.R.C.U.A. Malbork Dance Ensemble;
  • Demonstrations on how to make pierogi (dumplings), chrusciki (cookies), beet soup, haluski (fried cabbage and noodles), mizeria (cucumber salad), crepes and canning peaches;
  • Presentations on Polish pottery and the fine art of creating pysanky eggs;
  • Explanations of Polish folklore such as how to tell a person’s future from hay straw and the meanings behind the Wigilia feast on Christmas Eve; and
  • Crafting treasure boxes for children.
Courtesy Polish Heritage Society

“A lot of the activities will center around our demonstration tent, which we liken to a visit to your busia’s (grandmother’s) kitchen — the place where all the fun stuff is going on,” said Marilyn Lignell, past society president and demonstrator of the Wigilia feast.


In addition, the Polish Heritage Society is bringing the internationally known Lenny Gomulka & Chicago Push band to play two nights of the three-day event, along with other well-regarded polka bands, including Gerry Kaminski’s Polka Network, Dave Slivinski & The Noteables, Gary Szotko’s GPS Polka Band, the Polski Chix Polka Band and Ray Watkoski’s Family Band.  


Gomulka is considered a living legend in the polka community; he’s developed a huge base of followers in the United States and Canada since he formed the Chicago Push in 1980. Nominated for 12 Grammy awards in the polka genre, he was inducted into the International Polka Music Hall of Fame & Museum in his hometown of Chicago in 2016.


Admission is free to the Dozynki Polish Harvest Festival at Rosa Parks Circle, 135 Monroe Center, from Aug. 23-25, and there will be plenty of inexpensive parking in Parking Lot Areas 7, 8, and 9 for those who don’t mind a short walk.

Courtesy Polish Heritage Society

Other fun activities during the festival include the paczki eating contest, crowning of the busia queen and a performance by the P.R.C.U.A. Malbork Dance Ensemble, a dance group for youth ages 3-18 that teaches traditional Polish folk dances with authentic garb.


The Polish Heritage Society also selects a local not-for-profit group for special recognition during the festival as a way to build awareness and support for the organization, and this year the society is highlighting the Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA in Belmont. Representatives of The Y will be present during the afternoons of the festival to educate visitors about the offerings and mission of the organization.  


The Dozynki Polish Harvest Festival is the major fundraiser for the Polish Heritage Society of Grand Rapids, a non-profit organization founded in 1963 to perpetuate and advance the Polish culture that has been so integral to metro Grand Rapids. Among a number of its activities, the society awards scholarships annually to students of Polish descent who attend Aquinas College, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids Community College, and Davenport University.


For a full calendar of events for the three-day Dozynki Polish Harvest Festival, please view the society’s website at Polish Heritage Society of Grand Rapids.



For the love of cars: Metro Cruise marks 15 years

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

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

You sometimes hear it said that America’s love affair with cars peaked in the 1960s and has since started to fade. Anyone who believes that has probably not ventured a trip down 28th Street during the annual Metro Cruise, because if they had, they would be quick to discover that America’s love affair with cars is stronger than ever.

Started 15 years ago by the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce to encourage businesses and patrons to travel the “Sunset Strip of Grand Rapids,” the annual event has become a two-day car extravaganza with more than 100,000 people attending. This year’s Metro Cruise is Friday and Saturday Aug. 23 and 24, and it’s packed with more to do and see, according to organizers.

New this year will be a 4 p.m. Official Cruise along 28th Street. (WKTV)

“The stars are the cars,” as Chamber President /CEO Bob O’Callaghan likes to say. There will definitely be plenty of cars with the Main Event, located at Rogers Plaza, 972 28th St. SW, featuring nearly 400 stationary collector cars, which does not count the cars that will be cursing 28th Street or featured at other business along the road such as Berger Chevrolet.

Read how one local man blended the old and new in his 1955 Chevrolet Pickup

Berger Chevrolet, 2525 28th St. SE, again will be hosting its All GM Show on Saturday, Aug. 24. The free event, which is open to the public, will feature NHRA drag racer and 2017 NHRA Drag Racing Series Top Fuel dragster champion Brittany Force and her father, drag racer John Force.

WKTV Community Media will produce a one-hour special live broadcast at Metro Cruise scheduled to air at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 23, on WKTVLive.org as well as on WKTV Comcast Cable Channel 25 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99, and, later on demand at WKTV.org.



There are a host of activities taking place at The Main Event located at Rogers Plaza: Those activities include:

A Blind Donut Taste Test is at 10 a. m. Saturday. The first 100 people will get the opportunity to blind taste test donuts from Wyoming’s Marge’s Donut Den and Kentwood’s Cindy’s Donuts and Ice Cream and then tell judges which donut they felt was the best.

Dynamometer, or Dyno, will return, allowing cars to rev up to more than 160 mph. There is a fee to participate in the Dynamometer. Visit 28thStreetMetroCruise.com for more information.

Metro Cruise Tours is new this year. Five different times at the Main Event at Rogers Plaza, an expert in the car world will be leading walking tours down Collector Car Row. The tour, which is free, is an opportunity to see some very special cars, meet the owners, and hear their stories.

Read about a 1951 Chevrolet Pickup Truck that will be at the 2019 Metro Cruise that holds a special family bond.

Official Cruise Time is another new addition. Any collector car owner participating in the 2019 Metro Cruise is invited to participate in the official Cruise, which is at 4 p.m Saturday. Cars may enter or exit anywhere along 28th Street as there is no lead car. The goal, according to organizers, is to create a one- to two-hour concentration of collector cars along 28th Street. 

The final round for the Miss Metro Cruise contest will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Main Event stage. The field of contestants was whittled down at the June preliminaries to 10 finalists who will compete on Saturday for the title of 2019 Miss Metro Cruise. 

The final round of the Miss Metro Cruise contest takes place at 2 p.m. on Saturday. (WKTV)

Also at the Main Event will be 26 food vendors, including 16 food trucks, 35 local vendors, and official Metro Cruise souvenirs. There also will be music featuring five area bands. On Friday will be Flexadecibel (funk soul, rock) and Onager (rock, pop, country), and on Saturday will be Stolen Horses (country), La Aria del Ritmo (Latin) and Azz Izz (pop, R&M, Top 40). Activities at the Main Event at Rogers Plaza are from 4 – 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, and 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24.

Through a partnership with The Rapids, there will be a free shuttle service. The shuttle will pick up and drop off attendees at the Wyoming High School, 1350 Prairie Parkway, and the Wyoming library, 3350 Michael every 20 to 30 minutes during the peak times on Friday, Aug. 23 and Saturday, Aug. 24.

There are other Metro Cruise-related activities happening on Thursday, Aug. 22, as well. The Cascade Metro Cruise Warm Up, Cascade Road and 28th Street, will feature more than 200 cars, a live DJ, food vendors, and activities for the children. This event runs from 4:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Also, the Blessing of the Cars, at Wesley Park United Methodist Church, 1150 32nd St. SE. The event runs from 6-7 p.m. More than 100 show cars are expected. No registration is required.

For more about this year’s Metro Cruise, visit 28thstreetmetrocruise.com or follow the Facebook Page, Metro Cruise.

Cat of the week: Quiet Ann

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , ,
Quiet Ann excels at being demure

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


Each week WKTV features an adoptable pet—or few—from an area shelter. This week’s beauty is from Crash’s Landing. Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary rescue organizations were founded by Jennifer Denyes, DVM (Dr. Jen), who is on staff at Clyde Park Veterinary Clinic (4245 Clyde Park Ave SW).


On March 2nd and again on March 17th, we had what we believe to be an entire family of terrified cats dumped off in carriers. ‘The Shy Seven’ were the first to arrive and then three more joined us, rounding things out to ‘The Timid Ten’.


Needless to say it was a HUGE ordeal for all involved, from the stunned volunteers who kept pulling cat after cat out of cramped carriers, to the traumatized kitties who had no idea what was going on, and finally to Dr. Jen, who spent the greater part of two weekends at the clinic getting them program-ready. The latter was no small feat, as every single cat (yup, all 10 of them) were intact; 4 of the 5 girls were pregnant, and all 10 were clearly out of their element and having major trust issues.


Adding various medical issues to the mix, like fleas and a variety of internal parasites, dental disease and chronic herpes virus—suffice it to say that we ended up having a heaping handful of kitties who needed a great deal of help, not only physically but probably more importantly, mentally.


It was clear from the onset that the family had been neglected and lacking human contact for quite some time given their poor body condition, painfully long nails, and a shyness that went beyond anything we have seen before—and we have seen a lot. We have no idea where they came from, or why someone thought it was a good idea to displace them as they did without regard for our space or financial capabilities, but Dr. Jen believes a kindhearted, elderly person owned them and, for whatever reason, let them breed and multiply, running rampant in the house and growing wilder and more wary as the days wore on. This person could have then passed away (or moved away) and the cats were left to fend for themselves until a family member (or landlord) came in and booted the entire lot of them out—and onto our doorstep.

Plays well with others

Regardless, we’d like to think they were loved by someone at some point, as this helps us believe in the goodness of people, enough so as to offset the stupidity and callousness of others.


Let’s just say that for the most part, the journey we have all been on together is ever evolving—and it is going to be a long road full of bumps, setbacks and yes, triumphs along the way. It is now a few months since the arrival of this family, and we are just now able to share their stories, as it has taken a great deal of time (and patience) to get to this point.


Although we can’t verify their twisted family tree, Dr. Jen believes they were all born in late 2016. In any case, we have learned who is independent, who absolutely needs to be part of a duo (or trio), and who is going to be our most challenging and in need of the most convincing that we are good and that we will do no harm.


Quiet Ann is blossoming before our eyes, becoming much more accepting of being petted, but we’re still not able to physically pick her up for more than a few minutes, or panic ensues. She is, as her name states, a soft-spoken (meowing) little lady who is as stunning as she is sweet. She’d pair up well with Roller who needs to go with another one of the 10 who will complement him nicely as the more self-assured dame of the duo.


Potential adopters should be aware that it will more than likely be a tough transition for any of them, but once they settle in, get themselves familiarized with their new surroundings, and develop a new routine, they are going to be amazing cats. They are 100% worth the effort, but they will require more patience, time and energy than your average shelter cat.


Honestly though, we feel each and every one of our cats is above average, especially this family, who have come so far since they day they were dumped on our doorstep. Their transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.


We want to reiterate that at our free-roaming facility, cats like these have all the time in the world to acclimate and adjust—at a snail’s pace if that is what is necessary. We have no cages, no time limits, no rules or regulations—each individual cat gets to stretch his legs at his own speed; each kitty gets to spread her furry little wings and fly when she is ready to leave the nest. We offer a peaceful, secure environment to each and every cat in our care as long as they need it—and us. Slow and steady wins the race, and we firmly believe that with love, all things are possible; we surely can see endless possibilities and bright futures full of promise for this family of ours.


To help potential adopters see what we do, if you are interested in meeting one or more of the family members, we’ll set up special ‘quiet times’ for you to come visit them. They really thrive in calm surroundings, so we want to showcase them at their best!

More about Quiet Ann:

  • Domestic Medium Hair & Domestic Short Hair Mix
  • Buff/Tan/Fawn; Tabby (Gray/Blue/Silver)
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Spayed
  • Good in a home with other cats; no children

Want to adopt Quiet Ann? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.

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

The single-sport scourge

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, , ,

Children are increasingly specializing in just one sport, such as basketball, a more popular choice among youth. It’s leading to a rise in burnout and injuries. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Len Canter, HealthDay


Playing team sports is a great way to teach kids life lessons about leadership, teamwork and how to socialize with peers.


Sports are also a great way to build self-esteem and gain physical skills. Most important, they’re fun.


But too many—nearly three-quarters of young athletes—are specializing in just one activity as early as 7 years old, even playing on numerous league-level teams.


This puts them at risk for injury, stress, burnout and eventually abandoning sports, according to a report from the American Academy of Pediatrics.


About 70% drop out by age 13 for such reasons as pressure to perform or, conversely, not getting enough playing time.


And at least half of athletic injuries are related to overuse. On the other hand, playing multiple sports offers benefits such as fostering a love of different activities that can last their entire lives.


To keep kids in the game, the the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests encouraging them to play multiple sports until at least age 15. To lessen the risk of injury, they need one or two days off every week.


If the decision has been made to specialize in a single sport, both parents and child should have a discussion with the child’s pediatrician to evaluate whether the young athlete’s goals are appropriate and realistic. Keep in mind that barely 1% of high school athletes get scholarships and only a fraction make it to the pros.


Kids who do specialize should take one-month breaks from their sport, ideally at three different times each year, while pursuing other activities. Parents should watch out for too much pressure being placed on those in elite sports programs.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


A blood test may reveal your heart health

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Senior Living
A test that measures the protein troponin could one day help your doctor identify if you’re at high risk of heart attack or stroke. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By American Heart Association, HealthDay


Imagine getting a simple blood test to help doctors predict your risk for having a heart attack or stroke.


That test exists—and that scenario could become reality, according to a new study.


The test is often used now to help hospital medical staff diagnose heart attacks in people who come in with chest pain or other symptoms. It involves analyzing blood samples for specific proteins released by the heart muscle when damaged.


In recent years, these tests have become so refined that some can detect very low levels of these proteins, known as troponin.


Researchers determined that troponin levels in healthy middle-aged to older adults could help predict their risk for eventually developing cardiovascular disease.


Their findings were published recently in the American Heart Association journal Circulation.


“What we’re finding out is that these tests can be used in the general population to give us information as to who is most likely to have a future problem, whether it be a heart attack, stroke or heart failure,” said Dr. Christie Ballantyne, the study’s senior author and cardiology chief at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.


Researchers examined a group of 8,121 people, ages 54 to 74, with no history of cardiovascular disease. Troponin levels were detected in 85 percent of the group. Higher levels of the protein were associated with a greater chance of developing cardiovascular disease, particularly heart failure.


The study found that highly sensitive troponin tests were especially good at predicting cardiovascular events when added to the results of a special equation commonly used to calculate a person’s 10-year risk of having a heart attack or stroke.


While the troponin tests have been used to diagnosis heart attack in the United States, Ballantyne said they have not been approved as a risk assessment strategy. The report said additional studies on troponin tests could help pave the way for using them as part of a globally accepted formula on assessing risk for cardiovascular disease.


“Research in this area is leading us toward individualized care more and more, so we can better predict who’s at risk for developing adverse cardiovascular outcomes,” said Dr. Rebecca Vigen, assistant professor of internal medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. She was not involved in the research. “This study is a step in the direction of personalizing care.”


Ballantyne said the ability to use the results from a simple blood test to help predict cardiovascular disease could help people avoid “the number one cause of pain, suffering, death and medical expenses” in the country.


People might be more inclined to work harder to reduce their cholesterol level, keep their blood pressure under control, and exercise, he said.


“If you can treat someone much earlier, before you have symptoms, you will be far more effective in preventing events,” Ballantyne said.


“Our major problem is that we do too little too late. If the first time you find out that you’re at risk for heart failure is when you actually start getting short of breath and you end up in the hospital, you probably have advanced heart disease already, and it is going to be harder to treat than if that person took steps years earlier.”


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Michigan Irish Music Festival Celebrates 20th Year

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, Upcoming Events, , ,
Courtesy Michigan Irish Music Festival

By Colleen Murphy


The Michigan Irish Music Festival observes its 20th anniversary this year, and what better way to celebrate than by hosting more bands than ever in the history of the event?


The festival returns to Heritage Landing in downtown Muskegon Sept. 12-15 and features Irish and Celtic music on seven covered stages. The festival kicks off Thursday, Sept. 12 with its Pub Preview Party featuring food, beverages, and three bands in the pub tent only. The full festival begins Friday.


In addition to live music, the Celtic Kitchen and beverage stations serve authentic Irish food and drinks. The Tea Room has non-alcoholic choices and treats in a relaxed atmosphere. Other activities include the Irish Market and Irish Store, children’s activities, a cultural center, and a session tent. FEIS, an Irish dance competition, and the Highland Games are held on Saturday. Sunday, Catholic mass at 9am will be followed by a traditional Irish breakfast.


This year’s festival, expected to draw 40,000 patrons, will host a record 26 bands. Here’s a sneak peek at 10 of the bands on tap:


GAELIC STORM

After two decades and more than 2,000 live shows, this multinational Celtic band returns to the festival for the first time in five years. Gaelic Storm attributes their continued success to a diversified fan base from several musical genres: country, bluegrass, Celtic, and rock. Gaelic Storm, which has gained a reputation as a genre-bending Irish rock band, has topped the Billboard World Chart six times, appearing at mainstream music festivals and headlining the largest Irish festivals across the country.


THE HIGH KINGS

The band’s most recent release, Decade-Best of The High Kings, garnered rave reviews, and their recently completed U.S. tour sold out many of its venues. The High Kings’ unique contemporary style and arrangement to songs of yesteryear are sure to delight.


AOIFE SCOTT

The singer and songwriter from Dublin was named the 2018 winner of the Best Irish Folk Act at the Irish Post Music Awards. Her music has a broad creative scope but is largely influenced by her own roots in folk and traditional Irish music.


ONE FOR THE FOXES

This exciting and dynamic transatlantic trio presents a rousing blend of Irish and American folk music. They offer both traditional and newly composed music, presented in an energetic and engaging manner.


JIGJAM

The award-winning quartet from Ireland blends the best of traditional Irish music with bluegrass and Americana in a new genre, which has been branded as “I-Grass” — Irish-influenced bluegrass.


DOOLIN’

Doolin’ is one of the most innovative bands of the Irish music scene. Formed in Toulouse in 2005, the band comprises six accomplished and eclectic musicians. French in origin, this sextet brings a fresh approach to Irish music. Doolin’ combines instrumentals, vocals, and original compositions in a resolutely modern style. The arrangements at times taking their inspiration from pop-rock, folk, jazz, funk, and even rap.


PIGEON KINGS

Pigeon Kings draws from Celtic and rock influences, but they’re not Celtic Rock. There are traditional elements, but they’re not a traditional band. With elements of Americana and Bluegrass, they have a sound and persona all their own. Pigeon Kings offers a high energy stage show backed by unique compositions, honest lyrics, and experienced showmanship.


THE DROWSY LADS

Jack Baker of the Irish American News named The Drowsy Lads the “Best Irish American Band of 2018.” The Lads, out of Columbus, Ohio, have won over both casual music lovers and those steeped in hardcore traditional Irish music. They’re fond of creating their own spirited arrangements and offer occasional original compositions (even mixing in bluegrass and classical), but that never gets in the way of their obsession with the pure old Irish tunes, songs, wit, and friendship that has defined Irish music for centuries.


CONNLA

After winning New Group of the Year (Chicago Irish American News) and Best New Group (Live Ireland Music Awards) in 2016, Connla has been quickly making an impact on the folk/traditional scene. More recently, Connla won Album of the Year for 2019 at both the ALSR Celtic Music Awards and the Livvies Awards. Songlines magazine named Connla their “must-see act” for their UK tour and proclaimed, “A band this young shouldn’t be this good.”


THE CONIFERS

The five young musicians that make up The Conifers met while studying traditional music at the University of Limerick. They have since developed a lasting friendship, which is evident in their music. In 2018, The Conifers, whose music is energetic and lively with a wholesome sound, won first place in the prestigious Michigan Irish Music Initiative competition in Dundalk.


Advance tickets and passes for this year’s Michigan Irish Music Festival are available online (patrons save $5 per ticket online vs. the gate price). The festival offers an Early-In Free promotion on Friday only from 5 to 6pm, sponsored by Family Financial Credit Union. Other major sponsors of the festival include G&L, Van’s Car Wash and Budweiser. The Delta Hotels by Marriott and Shoreline Inn are host hotels for the festival. For complete festival information, and the announcement of additional bands, visit www.michiganirish.org. Find ticket into here.

Escape the summer hot flash

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living,
One of the first steps to combat hot flashes is proper hydration—about 80 ounces of water per day. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum Health Beat


Summer is the worst season to deal with hot flashes.


In the winter, you can get at least some relief by cracking open a window to let in the arctic air.


In the summer, not even air conditioning is enough. The days and nights are hot enough already—you shouldn’t have to face hot flashes, too.


If this has become your reality, it’s time to learn what to do to make these hot flashes go away.

Too hot, too cold

First, it’s important to understand why a hot flash happens.


A hot flash or night sweat is the body’s way of cooling off. The blood vessels in the skin are commanded to open, or dilate, and blood rushes to the surface, allowing heat to escape.


Sweating goes along with this, of course, further allowing the body to cool.


Women will say they glow or radiate heat during a hot flash. That’s exactly what’s happening.


Hot flashes often happen in the years before menopause, in the days before a period, and then more frequently in early menopause because estrogen levels are low.


Estrogen is a powerful regulator of temperature regulation. When estrogen levels drop, the thermostat gets very sensitive.


The comfort zone changes from a comfortable 4 degrees to a narrow range of 0.4 degrees. This is why many women in perimenopause or menopause say, “I’m always too hot or too cold—never just right.”


The body’s air conditioning—hot flashes—can also be triggered by sudden stress. The adrenaline rush can flip the switch.


High blood sugar, even after eating something as simple as a little cookie, can also trigger it. It can also happen 30 minutes after that cookie, when the blood sugar crashes.


Alcohol can trigger a hot flash, too. Many women will agree that drinking wine at dinner can cause night sweats.


Failing to drink enough water can cause hot flashes to increase in frequency and intensity. Weight gain can also make the body warmer and harder to cool.


Sleep-deprived women may experience hot flashes more frequently. Fluctuations in brain chemicals—brought about by situations involving chronic stress, for example—can also increase the frequency of hot flashes.

Finding hope

By understanding why hot flashes occur, women can avoid the suffering and begin to find solutions.


The most effective treatment for hot flashes and night sweats is estrogen medication.

The estrogen we prescribe at Spectrum Health Midlife, Menopause & Sexual Health is FDA-approved bioidentical, covered by most insurances.


It’s not compounded, but available by mail-order or from your local pharmacy.


Estrogen medication is safer than most people think.


We have many good studies to back that up.


Even a low dose of estrogen—much lower than normal ovary function back in the day—can reduce hot flashes within seven to 10 days.


If a woman has a uterus, she needs to take a progesterone with the estrogen. This can often help with sleep, too.


Safety comes first—and for some women, estrogen is not safe. We go through a checklist before prescribing it.


If estrogen is not the treatment of choice, the next best medication is the same class of drugs used for depression and anxiety.


This is used not because the woman has depression or anxiety, but because the medications can increase serotonin.


Serotonin makes the thermostat less sensitive and reduces the frequency of hot flashes, almost as effectively as estrogen.


Ultimately, you have to build the right foundation for treating hot flashes. This entails a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a healthy weight.


About 80% of women have symptoms that interfere with their quality of life.


But there is hope.


SEEDS (Seven Essential Elements of Daily Success) is the best place to start.


It begins with water—80 ounces per day—and 50 hours of sleep each week.


It also involves daily activity and exercise, a multivitamin and vitamin D and a healthy diet rich with complex carbs, smart protein and healthy fat. Limit yourself to just one treat per day and make sure you get all the fiber you need.


Practice metered breathing and gratitude.


As you do more SEEDS each day, you’ll experience fewer hot flashes.


The SEEDS approach can help in everyday life, too.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



4 things to know about backpack safety

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, , ,
One size doesn’t fit all. Backpack safety and features should be considered before you purchase a new pack for your child. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Alyssa Allen, Spectrum Health Beat


It’s school backpack shopping time, and for kids that means checking out the cool new colors and designs with their favorite TV and movie characters, sports teams or brands.


But for parents, there’s far more to consider in picking out the perfect pack.


Books. Binders. Lunch. Snack. Water bottle. Gym shoes. Laptop. Even musical instruments. When you pile it all in—and add in the stray pens, long lost papers and random “treasures” collecting at the bottom—it’s easy to see how a child’s backpack can become a hefty safety hazard.


Jennifer Hoekstra, injury prevention program coordinator at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, is here to help.

Backpack is best, but wear it right

A backpack is the best option for children and teens to carry all they need for a school day (rather than shoulder slings or messenger bags), because it allows them to distribute the weight across the strongest muscles of the body—the back and abdomen.


But, Hoekstra urged, they should wear it right, using both shoulder straps, rather than slinging it over one shoulder.


“It’s so much safer to carry the backpack with the weight distributed over the whole back,” she said.


If there’s just too much stuff to fit in the backpack, carry overflow (like musical instruments and sporting equipment) in a separate bag. Kids tend to carry things on their dominant side, but it’s important to switch from side to side to keep their spine in proper alignment and prevent “gravitational pull,” she said. One day carry it in the right hand, the next day, use the left hand.

Shopping tips

Hoekstra said parents should look for these things in a safe backpack—as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics:

  • a lightweight pack that doesn’t add a lot of weight from the pack itself (for example, leather packs can be much heavier than canvas)
  • two wide, padded shoulder straps; straps that are too narrow can dig into shoulders and cut off circulation
  • a padded back, for comfort and protection from being poked by sharp edges on objects (pencils, rulers, notebooks) inside.
  • a waist belt, which helps distribute the weight more evenly across the body using hip bones. (Hoekstra said parents should encourage their kids to wear the waist belt at all times. “It really is a good idea if you can teach kids from the beginning that this is an expectation,” she said.)
  • multiple compartments, which can help distribute the weight more evenly, rather than having just an open backpack where everything falls to the bottom.

Lessening the weight

According to doctors and physical therapists, kids should carry no more than 10 to 15 percent of their body weight in a backpack. Books and supplies can add up in a hurry, so Hoekstra suggests emptying the backpack each night to clear out any extras that have accumulated.


Many backpack manufacturers offer age and height recommendations for their products. This can be helpful in picking a backpack that’s the right fit for your child, but still be mindful of how much kids are piling inside.


Kids carrying big backpacks often aren’t aware of how much space they’re taking up. Show kids in a mirror what their loaded backpack looks like on their back, so they can take care not to knock over other kids on the bus or in the hallway, Hoekstra said.

Safety first

Do not have your child’s name printed or monogrammed on the outside of the backpack.


“Strangers may use that to call a child by name,” she said. “We, as creatures of habit, are very comfortable when someone knows our name, so people with bad intentions are going to use that to their advantage.”


Instead, find a place inside the backpack to label it. If you want to use the monogramming option offered by some manufacturers, use initials instead, she said.


Children walking to school or waiting at a bus stop should also have something reflective on their backpack, making them as visible as possible to passing motorists, Hoekstra said.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


Ten tips for back-to-school success

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Education, How-To's, Kids Activities, ,
As you plan for your child’s day, be sure to think about safety coming and going from school. Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Carrie Shrier and Michelle Neff, Michigan State University Extension


As the summer draws to a close, Michigan State University Extension suggests parents and caregivers address back-to-school basics now to help their children get the school year off to a good start.


Back-to-school time is an exciting time for most children — it’s a time to make new friends, reconnect with old friends and meet new teachers. As exciting as school can be, however, it often is a source of anxiety for children. As the summer winds down, take time to plan ahead for the start of school to avoid complications and reduce anxiety.

Ten tips to help your child be ready for the school year

  1. Visit the school. Most school buildings open a few weeks before the first day. Take your children to school for a tour. Where is the lunchroom? The playground? Where do they hang their coats? Where are their classrooms? How do they get from the front door to the classroom? Many schools offer a special open house or picnic, a time to meet up with old friends and make new ones. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity.
  2. Meet the teacher. Once the coveted teacher assignment arrives in the mail, plan a meet-the-teacher visit. Call ahead to see if you can make an appointment to stop in and say “hello.” Help your child find their coat hook, locker, desk, etc. Talk with the teacher about any concerns you may have and any special needs, allergies or other issues that may arise.
  3. Make new friends. If your child is new to the building, see if you can arrange for a play date with other children going into the same grade or in the same class. Having a few familiar faces that first day can help your child feel much more confident and comfortable.
  4. Be prepared. Include your child in back-to-school shopping. Even kindergartners have strong opinions about what they would like on their backpacks or what they want to wear to school the first day. If the teacher has provided a supply list, take your child shopping to help select those special items.
  5. Adjust the schedule. As the final days of summer draw to a close, start moving your child onto the school schedule. Those late bedtimes have been fun all summer but not so much when kids have to get up and moving early. Begin by moving up bedtime 10 to 20 minutes a day until you have adjusted children to their normal school-day bedtime and wake-up time. Remember, elementary school-aged children should be getting 10 to 11 hours of sleep a night.
  6. Practice the routine. In the last few days before school starts, take time to run through a typical school morning. Get your child up and dressed as if they were headed to school. After a healthy breakfast, head out to the bus stop or the car on time. Look for potential glitches in your routine and plan ahead to avoid “morning madness.”
  7. Think safety. As you plan for your child’s day, think about safety coming and going from school. Walking, carpooling and riding the bus present different potential safety risks. Talk to your children about their specific situation and make sure they know how to cross streets safely, are using an appropriate booster seat in a car if needed, or that they understand bus rules. More back-to-school safety information can be found at SafeKids.org.
  8. Immunizations and physicals. Check with your child’s pediatrician to be sure immunizations are up to date. Back-to-school time is a good time to schedule annual well-child exams. An exam may be required if your child is planning to participate in a sport. More information about the Michigan school vaccine requirements, as well as contact information for your local health department, can be found online at the Michigan Department of Community Health website.
  9. Plan for healthy meals. Research has shown that kids who eat a healthy breakfast and lunch get better grades and are more attentive at school. Talk with your children about what they would like to eat and help them choose a well-balanced selection of “brain foods.” More information on children’s nutrition can be found at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlatewebsite.
  10. Assistance is available. Your family may qualify for nutrition assistance through the National School Lunch Program. This federal program provides for free or reduced-price school lunches and in some cases breakfast as well. Contact your school’s nutrition program for an application. Some districts make this application available online. Many community agencies also offer additional back-to-school support, such as free backpack events and discounted or free school supplies and clothes. If you are in need of support to help get your children ready for school, be sure to contact your local community service agencies for more information on events in your area.

Taking time to plan ahead for the new school year is well worth the effort. Confident, calm, well-rested children are more likely to have an excellent first day and a fabulous year ahead. Let’s help our children start the school year on a positive note.


This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).



Health insurance can help you afford health care costs: Part 1

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Senior Living, ,
Photo by office.com

By Brenda Long, Michigan State University Extension


Health care can be costly. Doctor visits, medicine, braces and glasses are some expenses you have to pay for beyond an insurance premium. The good news is there are ways to manage your health care costs to save money. This article will focus on four personal and financial reasons to have health insurance. Also look for related articles on smart choices to pick health insurance plans and special health savings accounts.

My Smart Choice Health Insurance states four reasons why health insurance is important.

Peace of Mind

If you do not have health insurance, check it out. You may be surprised at the affordability. Many Michigan residents who selected plans through HealthCare.gov are getting financial assistance to lower monthly premiums. Others were determined eligible for Medicaid, the Healthy Michigan Plan, or MiChild. Take the first step and find out how much financial help for which you could qualify. So you may pay now with some peace of mind if you get sick or injured, or pay later with no benefits.

Financial Protection

Health insurance helps protect your family’s financial future. Health insurance helps pay costs when you need care and protects you from very high medical expenses. You may not feel that you need health insurance right now — health insurance is for helping manage risks — in this case potential future health problems.


In 2013, over 20 percent of American adults were struggling to pay their medical bills, with three in five bankruptcies due to medical bills. Sometimes we are quick to blame debt on poor savings and bad spending habits. However, research shows the burden of health costs causing widespread indebtedness. Medical bills can completely overwhelm a family when illness strikes,” says Christina LaMontagne, VP of Health at NerdWallet. Furthermore, 25 million people hesitate to take their medications in order to control their medical costs. Unfortunately, this can lead to even worse financial outcomes as preventive treatments are not rendered and patients end up using expensive ambulance and ER care as their health worsens.

Prevention Services

Many health insurance plans offer services and programs to help keep you healthy, thus saving you time and money over time. The Affordable Care Act includes free preventative benefits for adults at no cost to you, without charging you a copayment or coinsurance. This is true even if you have not met your yearly deductible. In addition to annual wellness visits, some plans also offer benefits such as personal wellness coaching, healthy pregnancy programs, gym membership discounts, nutrition counseling, online seminars/webinars, checklists, tools and calculators.

Better Health Outcomes

If you and your family have adequate insurance coverage, based on your health care needs and wants, and use your health insurance as it is intended to be used (prevention visits, immunizations, etc.), this can lead to overall better health for everyone. Even if you have a pre-existing health condition, you cannot be turned down or charged more for health insurance.


Open Enrollment in the Marketplace is in the fall. Consumers should visit HealthCare.gov to check the dates, review and compare health plan options. If consumers who were automatically reenrolled decide that a better plan exists for their families, they can make that change at any time before the end of open enrollment. If income and family size indicate eligibility for a government health insurance plan, you will be redirected to that enrollment site.


Consumers can find local help at Localhelp.healthcare.gov. You can also call the Federally-facilitated Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596. TTY users should call 1-855-889-4325. Translation services are available and the call is free.


In summary, three key reasons to see what you qualify for are that 1) There are different types of plans available so you can find coverage that meets your needs and budget, 2) Preventive care is free, including cancer screenings and wellness checkups and 3) Quality care no matter what. You cannot be turned down or charged more for being sick or having a pre-existing condition. Take the first step to check out how much financial help you could receive. Then make your informed enrollment decision.

Other articles in this series:

This article was published by Michigan State University Extension. For more information, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu. To have a digest of information delivered straight to your email inbox, visit http://www.msue.msu.edu/newsletters. To contact an expert in your area, visit http://expert.msue.msu.edu, or call 888-MSUE4MI (888-678-3464).


Sweet, often bittersweet, sounds of Mandolin Orange coming to Meijer Gardens amphitheater

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Local Entertainment, Reviews, Upcoming Events,
Mandolin Orange is a North Carolina based band led by singer-songwriter Andrew Marlin and multi-instrumentalist Emily Frantz. (Supplied/Kendall Bailey)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

One of the great things about the Meijer Gardens Summer Concert series is catching up with emerging bands just making their national headlining splash, or tour-tested bands making a stop between somewhere and Chicago.

Not really sure where Mandolin Orange fits into that spectrum, but the North Carolina based band led by singer-songwriter Andrew Marlin and multi-instrumentalist Emily Frantz have a growing reputation on the alt-Americana scene (if that is such a thing?), but may well be new to most of the audience at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park outdoor amphitheater stage on Sept. 4.

I expect the introduction to be good for all of us, as their sweet-sounding music is as familiar as it is rare.

And speaking of sweet sounds … ya, I know; a little cheesy … you will probably not find two more sweet voices than that of lead singer Marlin and harmonizer Frantz, as evidenced by “The Wolves”, one of the singles off the band’s most recent release, from February of this year, “Tides of a Teardrop”.

For a video of “The Wolves”, visit here.

As evidenced by “Tides of a Teardrop”, Marlin not only writes sweet songs, he often writes bittersweet songs.

As the new release was being created, according to supplied material, Marlin wrote the songs, “as he usually does, in a sort of stream of consciousness, allowing words and phrases to pour out of him as he hunted for the chords and melodies. Then, as he went back to sharpen what he found, he found something troubling and profound. Intimations of loss have always haunted the edges of their music, their lyrics hinting at impermanence and passing of time.”

For this album, Marlin and Frantz enlisted their touring band, and, having recorded all previous albums live in the studio, they approached the recording process in a different way this time.

“We went and did what most people do, which we’ve never done before — we just holed up somewhere and worked the tunes out together,” Frantz said in supplied material.

“This record is a little more cosmic, almost in a spiritual way — the space between the notes was there to suggest all those empty spaces the record touches on,” Marlin adds.

And the record is clearly touching a receptive audience.

“Tides Of A Teardrop”, when it was released, debuted at #1 on four different Billboard charts: Heatseekers, Folk/Americana, Current Country Albums and Bluegrass.

The band’s last record, 2016’s “Blindfaller”, was their breakout, earning them raves from Vox and NPR Music, and since then they have played Red Rocks with The Avett Brothers, played Bonnaroo as well as the Newport Folk Festival.

Mandolin Orange’s Wednesday, Sept. 4, concert, With Bonny Light Horseman opening, will start at 7 p.m. (5:45 p.m. gates open), with a $40 general admission ticket price. For more information and tickets visit meijergardens.org .

Daytime drowsiness a sign of Alzheimer’s?

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Senior Living, ,
Growing evidence suggests that lack of sleep may play a role in Alzheimer’s, and that getting enough sleep may be one way to reduce the risk of the memory-robbing disease. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


Feeling drowsy during the day might mean you have an increased risk for Alzheimer’s, new research suggests.


The long-term study included 123 adults with an average age of 60 when the study began. The findings showed that those who were very sleepy during the day had a nearly threefold increased risk of developing brain deposits of beta-amyloid, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease.


The findings add to growing evidence that lack of sleep may play a role in Alzheimer’s, and that getting enough sleep may be one way to reduce the risk of the memory-robbing disease, according to the researchers.


“Factors like diet, exercise and cognitive activity have been widely recognized as important potential targets for Alzheimer’s disease prevention, but sleep hasn’t quite risen to that status—although that may well be changing,” said study leader Adam Spira. He’s an associate professor in the department of mental health at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, in Baltimore.


“If disturbed sleep contributes to Alzheimer’s disease, we may be able to treat patients with sleep issues to avoid these negative outcomes,” he added in a Hopkins news release.


It’s unclear why daytime sleepiness would be associated with beta-amyloid protein accumulation in the brain, Spira said. And the study did not prove that sleep actually causes beta-amyloid to build up in the brain.


But it may be that poor sleep due to sleep apnea or other factors causes the formation of beta-amyloid through an unknown mechanism, and that these sleep disturbances also cause excessive daytime sleepiness.


“However, we cannot rule out that amyloid plaques that were present at the time of sleep assessment caused the sleepiness,” Spira said.


Animal studies have shown that restricting night-time sleep can lead to more beta-amyloid protein in the brain and spinal fluid, and some human studies have linked poor sleep with greater levels of beta-amyloid in the brain.


Sleep problems are common in Alzheimer’s patients, and beta-amyloid accumulation and related brain changes are thought to harm sleep.


“There is no cure yet for Alzheimer’s disease, so we have to do our best to prevent it. Even if a cure is developed, prevention strategies should be emphasized,” Spira said. “Prioritizing sleep may be one way to help prevent or perhaps slow this condition.”


The study findings were published in the journal Sleep.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

‘A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder’ opens Aug. 16

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment,


By Scott Meivogel, Saugatuck Center for the Arts


Mason Street Warehouse at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts presents the third production in its summer season, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, winner of 4 Tony Awards including Best Musical.


A wickedly funny mashup of Downton Abbey meets Mel Brooks, Gentleman’s Guide tells the hilarious tale of Monty Navarro, the dashing heir to the D’Ysquith family fortune, who sets out to jump the line of succession by—you guessed it—eliminating the eight pesky relatives who stand in his way.


“Gentleman’s Guide has a wonderfully clever storyline, over-the-top singing, and visually stunning period costumes and sets. We’re thrilled that our production will be the West Michigan regional premiere for this show!” said Mason Street Warehouse Artistic Director Kurt Stamm.


Mason Street’s production features 5 “alumni” seen in previous productions (including Elliott Litherland as Monty Navarro, Gina Milo as Sibella Hallward, Harry Bouvy as the D ‘Ysquith family along with Ellie Frances and Jeff Meyer) along with newcomers Katie Fay Francis, Jerome Doerger, Dan Krackhardt, Colleen McLaughlin and Abby C. Smith.


A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder runs through Sunday, Sept. 1. Matinee and evening performances are available.


Pour yourself a drink and enjoy this murderous romp filled with unforgettable music, larger than life characters, and non-stop laughs.


Tickets are available at our box office, by phone at 269-857-2399 or online here.