Category Archives: Citizen Journalism

21st Annual ‘Mitchell’s Run Thru Rockford’ coming up Saturday, Aug. 17

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Upcoming Events
Photo courtesy MRTR

By Lauren King


On Aug. 17, 2019, the 21st Annual Mitchell’s Run Thru Rockford (MRTR), a 5K Run/Walk and Kids for Kids Fun Run, will take place in downtown Rockford. 100% of the race fees and pledges from this event are donated to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD).


The race is named for Mitchell Peterson, who was was diagnosed with Duchenne shortly before his third birthday.

Courtesy MRTR

PPMD’s mission is to end Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a fatal genetic disorder that slowly robs people of their muscle strength. Those with Duchenne are truly in a race against time as their muscles deteriorate further each day.


Duchenne is the most common muscular dystrophy in children. It is a progressive disorder that causes muscles to become weaker over time until it affects the whole body. Duchenne is not contagious. About one out of every 5,000 boys has Duchenne, and about 20,000 babies worldwide are born with it each year. Duchenne mostly affects boys and reaches across all races and cultures. Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) estimates that there are about 15,000 young men, as well as a few young women, living with Duchenne today in the United States.

 Over the past 20 years, MRTR has included over 10,000 participants, 1,000 volunteers, and several thousand spectators, raising over $1,000,000. Mitchell’s Run Thru Rockford has been designated by Classic Race Management as “One of the Premier Running Events in West Michigan”.


When you join Mitchell’s Run thru Rockford, a Race to End Duchenne, you are supporting PPMD’s vital work in advancing research, care, and advocacy to help those with Duchenne live longer, stronger lives.


When: Saturday, Aug. 17

  • 5K Run/Walk, 8:30am
  • Kids for Kids Run, 9:30am, (new in 2019, along with the Super Heroes, Princesses from Royal Arrivals will also run alongside the kids.)

Where: Downtown Rockford, Michigan 


Go here to register.



Working after retirement: Why lots of boomers are starting businesses

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, How-To's, Senior Living,
Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living


By Vista Springs Assisted Living


Baby boomers over 50 account for one of the fastest growing group of investors and entrepreneurs, with many of them tuning to technology for help. Boomers come into entrepreneurship with decades of experience, extensive networks and the capital required for seed funding, giving them an advantage over other generations. 


If you choose to go into entrepreneurship after retirement, you have a great chance of growing your business into a successful venture.


After working for someone else for decades, you might be looking for an opportunity to become your own boss. Entrepreneurship gives you an opportunity to be independent as you pursue your passions and interests. Owning a business also creates additional income, allowing you to delay claiming your social security benefits. Additionally, entrepreneurship offers you an alternative if you have been laid off and you are not sure you can get rehired.


Whatever your motivation, there are several business ideas you can pursue even after retirement, such as:

Consultancy

Combine your skills, experience over the years and business connections to start a business that allows you to share your knowledge and focus your energy on learning how to run a business as opposed to acquiring new skills. You can explore several consulting opportunities. Start by speaking to your former employers and acquaintances: while they may not contract you on a full time basis, they might afford to bring you in a project basis.


Instead of focusing solely on face-to-face consultancy, consider teaching or coaching online through blogging or vlogging. Explore different options and the flexibility they offer; for example can you dedicate a few hours to online coaching while traveling or do you need to commit time for in-person engagements. Another consideration you must make is the paying power of potential customers.

Service Business

Depending on your interests, passions and expertise, there are different opportunities you can explore in service provision. For example, pet sitting for busy pet owners, tutoring or babysitting. Give yourself an edge by getting creative like this puppy lover whose service is providing pets at parties for children and other guests to enjoy. Explore options that allow you flexibility and the opportunity to work remotely such as running a virtual assistant agency where you can help other entrepreneurs manage their schedules including helping with their travel arrangements.

Active Living

As health care shifts towards a preventive lifestyle, there is an opportunity for you start a career that encourages active living especially among your peers who are looking to age gracefully. Get a license from your activity of choice and start offering classes in your home, at a local fitness center or organize sessions where clients can enjoy the outdoors when the weather allows.


Entrepreneurship has no age limit; explore your passions by becoming your own boss now that you have the time. Take advantage of technology to become a better business owner, for marketing and to connect with other likeminded individuals who are on a similar path.


Reprinted with permission from Vista Springs Living.



The functional fern

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, , ,
Researchers say they’ve genetically modified a species of ivy to filter out harmful pollutants. Other common houseplants are likely next. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


A common houseplant to help keep your home’s air cleaner and safer?


Scientists report they have genetically altered pothos ivy to filter certain hazardous chemicals from household air.


Many people use HEPA air filters to reduce levels of allergens and dust particles in their homes. But the molecules of the chemicals benzene and chloroform are too small to be trapped in these filters, the University of Washington researchers explained.


Chloroform is present in small amounts in chlorinated water. Benzene—a component of gasoline—can accumulate in homes through showering or boiling water, or by keeping cars or lawn mowers in attached garages, the study authors noted.


Both benzene and chloroform exposure have been linked to cancer.


“People haven’t really been talking about these hazardous organic compounds in homes and I think that’s because we couldn’t do anything about them,” study senior author Stuart Strand said in a university news release. He’s a research professor in the department of civil and environmental engineering.


“Now we’ve engineered houseplants to remove these pollutants for us,” Strand said.


The researchers genetically modified pothos ivy to remove chloroform and benzene from the air around it. The altered plants produce a protein called 2E1 that transforms chloroform and benzene into molecules the plants can use for growth.


When placed in glass tubes with either benzene or chloroform gas, the modified plants reduced chloroform levels by 82 percent after three days, and the gas was almost undetectable by day six. Benzene levels dropped by about 75 percent after eight days, the researchers said.


These lab tests used much higher levels of the gases than would be found in homes, but it’s likely that the plants would lower home levels of the gases as fast, or even faster, the study authors said.


The researchers said they’re now adding another protein to pothos ivy that can break down formaldehyde, a gas found in many wood products and tobacco smoke.


The research was published recently in the journal Environmental Science & Technology.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Trails for hiking, biking, paddling, and more in West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living, , ,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Whether you want to get lost in the woods, put your mountain bike to the test, or explore the coastline, you’ll find a great way below to hit the trails.

Hiking & biking

Celebrate 100 years of Michigan State Parks this year by traveling the more than 12,500 miles of state-designated trails and pathways in our state, making Michigan home to one of the largest, interconnected trail systems in the country. This inviting network — and the associated quality of life, health, and economic benefits it offers — is fueling Michigan’s drive to be known nationally as “The Trails State.” The trail system offers ample opportunities for bicyclists, hikers, ORV riders, cross-country skiers, snowmobilers, horseback riders, and more.


Discover Munising’s wonderful waterfalls and hiking trails that provide opportunities for tranquility, relaxation, education and fun, including Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which offers 100 miles of trails within its 73,000 acres along 42 miles of Lake Superior’s shore.

The Grayling area offers a number of walking, hiking, and biking trails, including a paved pathways system that is over 11 miles long, connecting parks and recreation spots around the area, such as Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Hartwick Pines State Park, and Wakeley Lake.


Cheboygan County has more miles of trails than any other county in Michigan. Their hundreds of miles of four-season trails bring visitors back year after year. These trails connect Cheboygan to the surrounding cities, lakes, and recreational areas.


Whether a beginner, intermediate, or expert rider, the world-class Copper Harbor Trails System has a ride-of-a-lifetime waiting for you. Join Keweenaw Adventure Company in Copper Harbor for a professionally-guided tour.


Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings has seven miles of hiking trails throughout the 662 acres of natural area it sits on, and you are invited to celebrate trails and the great outdoors with bird watching, fishing, nature art stations, bicycle safety, and maintenance demonstrations, nature journaling, and much more at the “Get Out on the Trail” event August 6th. 


Looking for a great ride/walk/jog in the Petoskey area? There are multiple trails throughout the area with breathtaking views and a mostly paved surface connecting the communities of Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs. For hikers, the Little Traverse Conservancy nature preserves dotted throughout the whole area gives nature lovers perfect spots to get off the beaten path. 


Coolbough Nature Area in Newaygo encompasses the largest natural prairie east of the Mississippi River. You’ll find several looped paths with unique ecosystems, including a rare oak-pine savanna, prairie, and wetlands.


Hiking opportunities abound at the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, located in Hickory Corners. There are numerous trails and other areas open to the public for walking and hiking. The grounds of the Kellogg Estate, which include the Kellogg Conference Center and Manor House, are open from dawn to dusk year-round. Visitors may take self-guided tours of the estate and historic Manor House, and docent-led tours are available by reservation. The W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, in nearby Augusta, offers several trails, some of which are paved and accessible to visitors using wheelchairs.


For a unique hiking experience, head to Oswald Bear Ranch in Newberry. Fun hiking around the bear habitats can take an hour at a leisurely pace while taking in beautiful Upper Peninsula scenery, and get a family photo with a bear cub.


Trails and hiking is part of the fun in the Saugatuck area. Home to Saugatuck Dunes State Park, hikers and mountain bikers will love the rugged trails that end on the shores of Lake Michigan. For bikers, Blue Star Trail is growing each year and is a great addition to the already very bikeable towns.


With 5,000 acres to explore, Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire offers a variety of options to just get outside and play. Enjoy the 750 acres that make up this combined trail system suited for hiking, biking and wildlife viewing.


In Bellaire, 31.5 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports trail await novices and avid trail users alike.


Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire is a special place and one of Michigan’s premier nature preserves. Located along Antrim County’s Chain of Lakes, Grass River Natural Area’s wetlands act as a filter for millions of gallons of water flowing into East Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan. Seven miles of trails and boardwalk take visitors through cedar swamp, sedge meadow, and upland forest. 


Holland boasts over 1,800 acres of parks for hiking, cycling, picnicking, and playing. With over 150 miles of paved bike paths, eight miles of mountain biking and hiking at the Riley trails, and over one-third mile of beautiful sandy beach at Holland State Park, there is truly something for everyone.

Set in the middle of the US-12 Heritage Trail, Coldwater Country is a haven for relaxation. From hiking and biking trails to two chains of lakes, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the area trails. Take a hike on the paved trails at Heritage Park in Coldwater or on the gravel trails along the Sauk River. 


Whether you are looking for a place to hike, bike, snowmobile, or snowshoe, Mecosta County has the trail for you, from a leisurely stroll while taking in a scenic view to a more challenging adventure. The Fred Meijer White Pine Trail is just under 100 miles long and is perfect for any time of year. The Hungerford Recreation Area in Big Rapids has separate trails for people to enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking


Marquette County is continually recognized for having the top trail networks in the state, region, and nation, holding a Bronze-level Ride Center designation from the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA). It is only one of two locations in Michigan with this award. In addition, with more waterfalls than any other county in the state.


South Haven has been named one of Pure Michigan’s first Trail Towns. There are two very popular biking and hiking trails: the Kal-Haven Trail and the Van Buren Trail. The Kal-Haven trail stretches from South Haven to Kalamazoo for a total of 33.5 miles, and the Van Buren trail stretches from South Haven to Hartford for 14 miles, and passes through the Van Buren State Park.


There are a number of hiking, biking, and even horse riding trails to check out in the Muskegon area, taking you through paved trails along the lakeshore and sand dunes, pathways through nature preserves, and trails that meander through oak savannahs and marshy fields.


Whether you prefer to explore on water or on land, Hastings has a trail for you. The scenic Thornapple River is adjacent to downtown Hastings and is easily accessible from Bliss and Tyden parks. The Riverwalk Trail follows the Thornapple for three miles and is suitable for walking, biking, and sight-seeing. For those seeking more of a challenge, the recently completed Hammond Hill Trail offers 7-miles of multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking and more. Avid cyclists may also test themselves on the permanently marked Barry-Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race courses (24, 32, and 64 miles) that take in some of the area’s most challenging trails and scenic back roads.

Water trails

Experience Lake Superior’s Keweenaw Water Trail sea kayaking with the Keweenaw Adventure Company, located on the northernmost tip of the Upper Peninsula in Copper Harbor. Join a guided tour to discover stunning views, Hawaiian-like lava flows, vibrant reefs, & breathtaking boreal forests. 


Indian River, named after the river which flows through it, is home to the 40-mile long Inland Waterway which runs through Pickerel Lake and Crooked Lake, the Crooked River, Burt Lake, the Indian River, Mullett Lake, the Cheboygan River, and finally into Lake Huron. It’s is the ideal location to boat, fish, hunt, camp, bike, kayak, canoe, raft, tube, stand-up paddle board, and more. 


With more than 100 lakes in Coldwater Country, a water adventure is a must — rent a pontoon or launch a kayak.


The Pere Marquette River Lodge in Baldwin sits on the banks of the legendary Pere Marquette River, which has been named one of the top trout fishing destinations in the world by Field & Stream magazine. It’s also a popular destination for canoers and kayakers looking for solitude on one of Michigan’s designated National Wild and Scenic Rivers. The lodge offers a full-service fly shop, guided fly fishing for trout, migratory steelhead, and salmon, and pheasant hunting trips. The fly fishing schools offered throughout the year are a great opportunity for beginners to learn the sport.


For those in search of a more relaxing stroll, enjoy the Big Rapids Riverwalk in Mecosta County, which is accessible to all. The Riverwalk is just under 3.5 miles long and follows alongside the beautiful Muskegon River. It features fishing platforms, benches, bike racks, and picnic areas on either side of the 250-foot wooden bridge that spans the Muskegon River.


The Chain of Lakes Water Trail, planned, coordinated and led by Paddle Antrim, is an extensive trail with over 80 miles of routes through 14 stunning lakes and rivers in Benzie County. This water trail has 81 access sites and stretches through four counties in Northwest Michigan (Antrim, Charlevoix, Kalkaska, and Grand Traverse). From the small upper lakes to Torch Lake, there is an incredible diversity of paddling opportunities, making it a destination for all paddlers.


South Haven is home to the Bangor/South Haven Heritage Water Trail, a great route for kayaking or canoeing for 21 miles. There are also a number of places to rent kayaks and other water vessels and accessories nearby. 

Other trails to try

Developed by the Mason County Historical Society in partnership with the Mason County Cultural Economic Development Task Force, the Ludington section of the Mason County Maritime Heritage Trail provides a free, interactive, and educational experience for residents and visitors to the community alike. The trail, which can be started at the Historical Society’s Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, will guide you along Ludington’s historic waterfront as you explore the fascinating history that is all around you. The trail features 13 stops, each with an exhibit-quality sign explaining the history and significance of that location to Ludington’s maritime heritage. 




Brioso String Quartet to perform July 25 at the Downtown Holland Street Performer Series

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , ,
Courtesy Brioso String Quartet

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


The popular Brioso String Quartet will appear at the Street Performer Series in Downtown Holland tomorrow night from 6:30-8:30pm, performing songs from Bach to Bruno Mars.


Every Thursday night this summer, the sidewalks of Downtown Holland are filled with performing artists and groups from every background, including musicians, balloon twisters, jugglers, magicians, aerial acrobats, dancers, face painters and so much more! The Street Performer Series is free to attend and is sponsored by Gentex Corporation.


The Brioso String Quartet has been providing quality instrumental music in West Michigan for over 20 years. The quartet comprises violinists, Tammy Clark and Jennifer Tuinenga, with Laurie Van Ark on the viola and Ginger Vandenbrink on the cello. While regularly providing traditional string music at hundreds of wedding receptions and other private events, the quartet is well known for bringing a fun mix of both classical music and popular favorites to the Street Performer Series, delighting crowds with hits from the Beatles, popular Broadway tunes and more.


The concerts are free for the public and are located on 8th Street between Columbia and Pine Avenues; 8th Street will be closed to traffic for the event for crowd safety purposes.


Although the Series is free to attend, tipping the performers is highly encouraged. In addition to the exclusive event sponsor, Gentex Corporation, the Street Performer Series is also supported by the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs through the Holland Area Arts Council.


Information about individual performers is available here.


Grand Rapids Public Museum hosts Planetarium double feature of Queen, Pink Floyd light shows

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment,
The final double feature showing of “The Queen Light Show” and “Dark Side: The Light Show” is set for Thursday, Aug. 1. (Longway Planetarium)

By Kate Kocineski
Grand Rapids Public Museum


Join the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) for the final Planetarium Double Feature showing of The Queen Light Show and Dark Side: The Light Show in the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium on Thursday, August 1. 

Music enthusiasts will rock out to the music of Queen and Pink Floyd paired with stunning visuals on the planetarium dome.

The Museum’s doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the first show, The Queen Light Show, starting at 7 p.m. A cash bar will be available before the first show and during a short intermission.

Tickets to the Planetarium Double Features will include both light shows, and are $8 for non-members, $4 for members. Tickets may be purchased at grpm.org or by calling 616.929.1700.

The Queen Light Show

New life is brought to the wildly popular classic rock light show format with an original production set to the music of Queen. Experience 10 of Queen’s greatest hits, including favorite like Bohemian Rhapsody, Another One Bites the Dust and You’re My Best Friend. The Queen Light Show: From Mercury with Love! is brought to the Chaffee Planetarium from Longway Planetarium in Flint.

Dark Side: The Light Show

Experience Pink Floyd’s iconic album as never before in this one-of-a-kind light show, featuring stunning 4k visuals, brilliant LED sequences, and incredibly clear 5.1 surround sound. Dark Side: The Light Show is a GRPM original production, first launched at the Chaffee Planetarium in Spring 2015. 

The Right Place assists Roskam Baking Company with plant expansion

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, , ,
Eric Icard, Senior Business Development Manager from The Right Place (Supplied)

WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org


Today The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of Kentwood, announced that Roskam Baking Company will be expanding its operations at 5565 Broadmoor Ave SE in Kentwood. This expansion will result in the creation of 238 new jobs and a capital investment of $85.2 million.

Roskam is headquartered in Kentwood and was founded in 1923 as a family-owned bakery in Grand Rapids. Today, the company is still owned and operated by the Roskam family, employs over 2,000 in West Michigan, and is a manufacturer for major food companies and brands around the country. The expanded facility will house two new product lines for the company as a result of contracts earned in 2018.

The Right Place worked in collaboration with Roskam Baking Company and the MEDC to ensure the company continued its growth in the region. The Right Place also connected Roskam Baking Company to workforce development resources at West Michigan Works! to assist with worker training.

The MEDC is supporting the expansion effort with the approval of a $1,000,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant.

One of the products made at Roskam Baking Company is croutons. (Public Domain)

“This project is an excellent win for our region in terms of jobs, investment, and overall economic impact,” said Eric Icard, Senior Business Development Manager and project lead, “West Michigan’s food processing industry is a national leader, and Roskam Baking Company’s decision to continue its growth here is a testament to our region’s strength.”

Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley

The City of Kentwood is supportive of Roskam’s decision to expand in the city, which will bring new jobs to the community. The city is considering the approval of a local PA 198 Property Tax Abatement. 

“We appreciate Roskam Baking Company’s further investment in the City of Kentwood,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. “We are proud to see a world-leading food processing company have continued success and bring new jobs to the community.”

Tom Coverly Illusion and Magic Show at the Henderson Castle

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, ,
Courtesy Tom Coverly

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Head to the Henderson Castle Aug. 16 for an amazing dinner as well as a comedy and illusion show by world renowned magician, “The Illusionist” Tom Coverly.


Your entertainer for the evening is one of the most-requested, clean adult entertainers in America. He has performed live for nearly 3 million people, has been seen on TV (ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS), entertained numerous celebrities (including the entire cast of the Batman vs Superman movie) and has shared the stage with the biggest names in music like Skillet, Toby Mac, Korn, Pop Evil, Thompson Square, NF and Danny Gokey (of American Idol), just to name a few.


Get ready to laugh a lot and have your mind blown by magic tricks that you will never forget! For more information about The Illusionist, go to TomCoverly.com.


Multi-course dinner includes soup & salad, bread & butter, entree choice, and dessert du jour.


Shows are Aug. 16, 5:30-8:30pm or 2nd Show 7:30-10:30pm. Tickets $87.00/person available at hendersoncastle.com


Event tickets are non-refundable at time of purchase, and by purchasing tickets you agree to these terms. Event tickets will not be transferable within 48 hours of purchase. Events are sometimes held in our 3rd Floor Ballroom. Guests who may have difficulty walking up the stairs should contact the Castle in advance of ticket purchase. There is a set menu, however, we are able to make adjustments in advance. We will not take dinner orders during the event, so after you make reservations, please let us know of any dietary restrictions by calling the front desk at (269) 344-1827 or emailing us at info@hendersoncastle.com.

Cat of the week: Tinker

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , , , ,
This guy just loooooves to climb

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).


TERRIFIC is one of many fabulous words we can use to describe Tinker, a charming little chap (born in May of 2017) who came to us mid-November, 2018. Rescue dynamo Sandi D. was out and about making her rounds on Quarry St. NW in Grand Rapids when she stumbled across this handsome black-and-white guy who had been abandoned by his owners. Not one to let any grass grow under her feet, she scooped him up and took him on home; five days later Dr. Jen was able to work him up at the clinic with the intention of taking him into our program.


Unfortunately he tested a faint positive for Feline Leukemia, a transmissible virus that befalls too many outdoor cats in our area who don’t receive proper care and vaccinations, so instead of making his way down to Crash’s he got to pack his little kitty bags and head on over to Big Sid’s. On his one month follow-up, he still retested a faint positive, so he is an official resident of our sanctuary, or Sid’s Kid as we call them. 


No worries though, as from the get-go Tinker has been absolutely thrilled with his new surroundings—he is SO darn excited to be indoors and receiving three squares a day. He cannot absorb enough attention from his human caretakers and finds it fun to hang out high above everyone’s heads where he can look down and survey the activity.


He has been known to be a bit aggressive towards certain cats, but over time he is learning that it is a hoot to engage in play versus swatting and swiping at his feline roomies. Because the virus is transmitted by sharing of bodily fluids (saliva, blood), we feel it is best he go into a home with another positive kitty—or none at all, since he would wholeheartedly enjoy being the king of his very own castle.


Everyone simply adores this little busybody! When kids come to our Meet and Greets, he enthusiastically welcomes them and shows off a bit, matching their energy and eagerness to have a good time. Tinker is going to make a spectacular addition to any household who wants an outgoing, adventurous companion. He loves to climb, so keep that in mind if you have your eye on this great guy.


We are sure that once you meet him you will come to agree that he is too cute for words.

More about Tinker:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Black & White/Tuxedo
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with children, no cats

Want to adopt Tinker? 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.

Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know

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

Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.

Dr. Seuss


By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Parting is Sweet Sorrow

Marti and Bruce Johns have served as the Studio 28 Flea Market managers for more than 30 years. (WTVK)

After 50 years, the Studio 28 Flea Market is having its last weekend this Saturday and Sunday. The 13 acres the market sits on is in the final stages of being sold, according to officials at Studio C, which oversees Celebration! Cinema and owns the land. Vendors and the market managers, Marti and Bruce Johns, hope people stop by this weekend, between 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., for one last walk through and to swap a few memories and laughs. The market is located on Prairie Avenue in Wyoming across from the Wyoming High School.

Structurally Sound

A portion of the roof at Lee Middle/High School collapsed in June. (WKTV)

All those Godfrey Lee students hoping for a delay in school due to the roof collapse at the Lee Middle/High School earlier this summer are going to be greatly disappointed. According to Superintendent Kevin Polston, the building has been inspected and it has been found to be structurally sound. School officials said they are planning for the regular start of school, which for the Godfrey-Lee Public Schools district is Aug. 19.

Just Pinky

“Supporting the fighters, admiring the survivors, honoring the taken and never giving up hope.”


The Kent County Sheriff’s Department has made pink its color. Starting this month, the department is offering pink Sheriff’s Office patches for a $10 donation with the proceeds going to Gilda’s Club and the Kent County Sheriff’s Office Benevolent Fund. To get a patch, go to the pinkpatchproject.com.

Sault Ste. Marie:
More Than Just Locks

While famous for being the home of the Soo Locks, Sault Ste. Marie also goes down in the history books as the first European settlement in the Midwest and the third oldest one west of the Appalachians. Sault Ste. Marie marked its 350th anniversary in 2018. The oldest city in the United States? That goes St. Augustine, Florida, which is more than 450 years old.

How to navigate long-distance care planning

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Senior Living
Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living

By Vista Springs Assisted Living


Here in America, it is not uncommon to live far away from our loved ones. Unfortunately, the distance away from each other can end up creating a bit of a problem when it comes time to help out a loved one or relative, especially with care planning.

The challenges with distance and care services

The challenge of long-distance care involves more than just making sure a relative gets to the hospital or local clinic for needed appointments. It also likely includes:

  • Managing health demands
  • Becoming familiar with all of a relative’s medical contacts and history
  • Managing details for assisted living
  • Managing financial reporting and tax-related paperwork
  • Keeping insurance companies informed
  • Obtaining medical supplies
  • Regularly helping the relative informed of the above items

No surprise, the tasks can quickly develop into a full-time job, and that’s where the challenge sits the most — how to manage all these moving pieces from far away.

Carefully selecting providers

The necessity of contracting for help tends to be a given in many cases. While many resources may be available, those arranging for distance care must carefully evaluate who they select as a care provider. Elder abuse typically happens through loss of personal assets and finance by those providing care. The opportunity to take advantage of someone happens all too often when there’s free access to a home and someone’s personal information.

The importance of accountability

Rarely used, the second step recommended by many care providers involves an accountability system on the caretaker chosen. Unfortunately, this approach represents extra costs that many refuse to agree to when planning care. One resource who retains the ability to cut through red tape chatter and implement care quality control protections very quickly tends to be an attorney.

Stay involved

Third, those arranging care should remember to stay involved. Quality care involves the human factor of connection, love, friendship and communication. Families who remain in touch, visit, and who keep an eye on things provide the best care and protection for a loved one. Long distance care arrangements may be challenging, but the goal frequently outweighs the work in the end.


At Vista Springs, we take great pride in delivering the best possible care to those who live further away from their loved ones. We strive to make our communities a second family to those who can’t be with theirs on a regular basis. Please contact us today to find out how we can provide the highest level of care to your loved one. 



Saying good-bye: Studio 28 Flea Market closes after 50 years

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, ,
Marti and Bruce Johns have been the managers at the Studio 28 Flea Market. Bruce has been with the market for 35 years and Marti has been with the market for 33. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org


As Bruce and Marti Johns sit in the little white booth at the Studio 28 Flea Market, they swap more than just money and spaces, they share the stories that make up the 50-year history of the market.

The original permit to open the Studio 28 Flea Market. (Supplied)

“He’s been doing it for 35 and I’ve been doing this for 33,” Marti said and with a laugh adds. “I just knew if I wanted to spend my weekends with him that I was going to have to do this.”

“It’s always been about family,” Bruce Johns said. “For 35 years, we have seen these people every weekend, sharing their stories, their lives from wedding announcements to babies coming to everything that happens from one weekend to another.”

Started 50 years ago when the East Beltline Drive-In was still located at 1400 28th St. SW, the flea market will have its last weekend this Saturday and Sunday. The 13 acres along the back side of the property along Prairie Avenue, and where the market is located, is in the final stages of being sold. The lot is owned by Studio C, which owns and operates Celebration! Cinema.

“It is not a money maker and over the past several years it has made enough to cover the taxes,” said Emily Loeks, public relations and community affairs for Studio C. For most of its history, it has cost 50 cents for attendees. Vendors pay a separate fee to get a spot.

“In reality, you are not going to keep such a prime piece of property vacant forever,” Loeks said. The entire property is 20 acres with seven acres along 28th Street still available.

In fact many of the vendors and attendees said they knew the market could end some day. 

“I think for the past 10 years, there has been a rumor that this is going to be the last one,” Bruce Johns said. “Well, this year, it really is the last one.”

There have been some efforts to try and relocate the market to another location, but with one option falling through, it does not appear that anything will happen this year. So instead, vendors and attendees are spending the last weekend celebrating the market’s history.

  • Produce has always been available at the market. (WKTV)
  • Shoppers make their way from booth to booth. (WKTV)
  • Clothing items for sale at the Studio 28 Flea Market. (WKTV)
  • Vendors sold all kinds of things at the market. (WKTV)
  • An attendee looks over the toys. (WKTV)
  • Boxes of treasures await discovery. (WKTV)
  • Bedding and house items were common at the market. (WKTV)
  • A vendor offers meals and food items. (WKTV)
  • Handmade crafts we’re also at the Studio 29 Flea Market. (WKTV)
  • Unique and hard-to-find speciality food items. (WKTV)
  • Produce items at the market. (WKTV)
  • Canned jellies and honey at the Studio 28 Flea Market. (WKTV)

Officially started on May 20, 1970, the market was the idea of John D. Loeks, the founder to Celebration! Cinemas. Loeks already operated the East Beltline Drive-In on the site.

“My grandfather was an entrepreneur,” Loeks said. “He started many things. He had a trampoline park, a putt-putt golf and succeed with many ventures, one that became Showspan, which brings in all the sports expos and other shows.”

“According to my understanding, [John D.] Loeks went to California and saw a market like this and decided to bring it here,” Johns said.

Loeks said that the drive-in at the time was empty for parts of the week, so it was set up that vendors could have a space between each post on the drive-in lot.

In the early years, vendors would wait in line and then race once the doors were open to stake out their spot. After the drive-in was closed and the lot was paved for Studio 28, lines were added to indicate spots with vendors being able to rent a designated spot for the day, weekend, or month.

The market has 457 booths. On its biggest weekend in the summer, there might be 300 vendors and about 4,000 customers, Loeks said. More recently, the market is usually half to three-fourths full, mostly depending on the weather, she said. The market has been impacted by other local markets opening but the closest one similar the Studio 28 Flea Market it is in Paw Paw, according to attendees.

Sharon and Alex Cardosa, of Dorr, have been visiting the Studio 28 Street Market for many years. (WKTV)

“There is something about the feel to this particular market,” said Alex Cardosa, of Dorr, who has attended various flea markets for about 30 years. Cardosa said he spends about every weekend from April to October, when the market is usually open, with his wife, walking and looking for deals on a variety of items such as tools, antiques, artifacts, collectibles or “just the unusual.”

“Wet a certain amount of farm choirs done in the morning and then come here to get our exercise in,” said Cardosa’s wife Sharon, with Cardosa adding “the folks here just really make it work.”

Longtime vendor Lynn Baker with Studio 28 Flea Market Operations Manager Bruce Johns. (WKTV)

Grand Rapids resident Lynn Baker agreed as she has been a vendor at the market since it opened 50 years ago.

“I’m low income and so this has been a way for me to supplement my income,” said Baker, who said she attends other markets in the summer as well. Baker sells home goods, clothing, and accessories. “I love coming. I love the people. I love what I do.”

Grand Rapids resident and Studio 28 Flea Market vendor Tami Eisenhuth was introduced to the Studio 28 Street. Market by her mother, Lorene, who also was a vendor. (WKTV)

“It’s the people,” said Grand Rapids resident Tami Eisenhuth. Eisenhuth said she had been coming to the market since she was a little girl with her mother Lorene, who was known as the cookie lady. 

“She would bring tins of cookies with her and hand them out to people,” Eisenhuth said. “She would tell people not to wash the tins because she was afraid they would not let them air property and then the tins would rust.”

Bruce Johns said he remember those cookies and this past week, as a tribute to her mother, Eisenhuth handed out cookies to her Studio 28 Flea Market “family.”

“When my mother died,” Eisenhuth said with a tear in her eye, “we put her stuff out to sell. People were like ‘Lions, tigers, and bears, oh my!’ because there were a lot of lions and bears. People bought something to remember her.”

Longtime vendor Allie Henning, pictured with granddaughters Alyssa Armano and Kaleigh Blakeslee, said when the market closes, he will be retiring. (WKTV)

“When it closes next weekend, it will be the end for me,” said Allie Henning who started his business after his plant shutdown 20 years ago. “I have been to other markets and this is the one I do. In fact, it is now the only one I do and I have a clientele that follows me. But when its done, I’m done too.”

Last weekend also will be the last for the Johns as well. 

“I would do this for another 50 years,” Bruce Johns said. “But things do have to come to an end. So instead, I am going to look forward to having my weekends free, play with grandchildren and do a little traveling.”

The Studio 28 Flea Market is open from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Some vendors are there as early as 6 a.m. While the address is listed as 28th Street, the main entrance is off of Prairie Avenue across from the Wyoming High School. For more information, visit the Facebook page, Studio 28 Flea Market. 

Stay safe at the beach

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Kids Activities, Recreation, , , ,
As paddleboarding becomes more popular, safety experts are reminding families about the inherent risks of water sports. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Alan Neushwander, Spectrum Health Beat


Summertime in Michigan means beach time, but trips to the beach aren’t always fun in the sun.


According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 3,500 people die each year from drownings unrelated to boating. An additional 332 people die each year from drownings in boating-related incidents.


Among those who drown, about 1 in 5 are children younger than age 14.


Families can enjoy Michigan’s natural resources by following some simple safety tips, said Tammy Middlebrook, MD, with Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital Pediatrics.


“When people are swimming in a lake, they need to remember to not go in past their level of comfort,” Dr. Middlebrook said. “If you can’t touch the bottom, then you’re out too far.”


You should also take waves into consideration.


“If you’re just barely touching the bottom, a wave can come and sweep you off your feet,” she said.

Water hazards

Stand anyplace in Michigan and you’re never more than 85 miles from at least one of the Great Lakes. On any afternoon, there’s a sure route to fun and recreation.


But U.S. Coast Guard crews are quick to remind beachgoers about the need to respect the water.


“Even though they may be a good swimmer, there are obstacles on Lake Michigan such as waves, rip currents and rocks under the surface of the water,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Adam Castonia of Coast Guard Station Ludington.


And it’s not just swimmers who need to be cautious.


With the recent popularity of stand-up paddleboarding, the Coast Guard is seeing more people who need to be rescued after falling off their boards.


“When operated outside of a designated swimming area, paddleboards are considered a vessel under Coast Guard regulations,” Castonia said. “When outside of those areas, paddlers over the age of 12 must have a life jacket onboard. They aren’t required to wear it, although the Coast Guard recommends everyone on a boat or paddleboard to always wear a life jacket.”


Paddlers age 12 and under are required to wear a lifejacket when paddling outside of swimming areas, Castonia added.

Sunny days

The water isn’t the only thing that creates hazards. Exposure to the sun can also be dangerous.


“While at the beach, people should wear sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher,” Dr. Middlebrook said. “Wearing sunglasses, a hat, having a coverup and a beach umbrella will protect people against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.”


People should also avoid staying at the beach in direct sunlight for too long, especially during the peak UV hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.


Staying hydrated will also help ensure your trip to the beach is safe.


“Drink lots of water before going to the beach and while at the beach,” Dr. Middlebrook said. “You should avoid sugary drinks at the beach because the more sugar you drink, the more dehydrated you can get.”


Healthier snacks such as crackers, pretzels, fruits and vegetables should also be part of your beach basket on a hot summer day.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


After partial building failure at Lee high, District leader stresses safety of rest of complex

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Hard News,
The portion of the Lee Middle and High School complex where the collapse and clean-up occurred. (Supplied/Godfrey Lee Public Schools)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

Kevin Polston, Superintendent of Godfrey Lee Public Schools, was really busy this week and it really had little to do with the opening of school in six weeks.

In the wake of the June multi-day collapse of a portion of the Lee Middle and High School, with the damaged area now cleared and the remainder of the multi-building complex independently inspected and judged structurally sound, Polston led a series of meetings to report the current status and possible future plans.

Aerial view of building complex.

After an earlier report to the Godfrey Lee Public Schools Board of Education, Polston has led meetings with staff, city and educational community leaders, community and parents as well as host a press conference. In all the meetings, Polston repeatedly stressed three things:

Building design with affected area in color.

First, the cause of the unforeseeable failure is now clear and rigorous inspections led by Ross Smith, WJE Associates Structural Engineer, of the other buildings in the complex show no similar structural problems.“The building is safe and we are opening as scheduled,” Polston said on Thursday, adding that both the inspector and the superintendent himself “would put my children” in the building.

Second, the district, despite being hampered by local economic factors including the district’s near maximum school millage rate, has plans — three in fact — to rebuild the section as quickly as possible, both due to educational need and insurance reimbursement requirements.

Third and finally, Polston and the entire Godfrey Lee community are grateful that the building failure — the failure of a single wall section actually — occurred after the school year and when the students were absent, and in two incidents over a single weekend when the building was unoccupied. “This would have been a catastrophe if it had been occupied,” he said.

The biggest concern now for the district, Polston said, is that parents will transfer their students — and the funds the district gets for educating their students — to other school districts due to lack of information or misinformation.

“It is extremely important to make sure we have the trust of the community … it is important they get the facts,” Polston said. “We want to make sure they know it is safe to send their kids here.”

District supplies fact sheet on incident and aftermath

Districts summary of incident and aftermath

Study: E-cig vapors laden with toxic metals

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, , , , ,

Think vaping is a safe alternative to tobacco cigarettes? Not likely. New research suggests e-cigarette vapor contains heavy metals. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Alan Mozes, HealthDay


If you think that “vaping” is a safe alternative to smoking, research suggests you might be inadvertently inhaling unsafe levels of toxic metals.


Scientists say the tiny metal coils that heat the liquid nitrogen in e-cigarettes may contaminate the resulting vapor with lead, chromium, manganese and nickel. The finding raises the possibility that e-cigarettes are not harmless to users.


“We analyzed 15 metals in e-liquid from the refill dispenser—before the liquid meets the heating element—in the vapor, and in the remaining e-liquid in the tank after vaping,” explained study author Pablo Olmedo. He’s an assistant scientist with the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health’s department of environmental health and engineering, in Baltimore.


“We found that the metal concentrations were generally higher in the tank and aerosol compared to the refill dispenser,” said Olmedo. That suggests that the heating coil is the smoking gun, he added.


But study co-author Ana Maria Rule pointed out that their team also found “the presence of some metals in some of the liquids even before they are in contact with the coil.”


That could mean that “in addition to the metal coil, other factors could play a role in e-cigarette metal exposure, such as the voltage used to heat the coil,” said Rule, also an assistant scientist at Hopkins.


Unlike traditional smoking, vaping works by heating liquids that contain nicotine. The liquid passes through a heating coil, producing a vapor that proponents claim is free of much of the carcinogens associated with burning tobacco leaves.


Given that a recent U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse survey found that one in six high schoolers has vaped in the past month, the finding could have broad public health implications, the researchers said.


In the Hopkins study, published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, investigators recruited 56 vapers in the Baltimore area to see whether the heating process introduces toxins into what is inhaled.


The researchers used the vapers’ own e-cigarette devices when examining the chemical content of e-liquid, vapor and residue.


Tested chemicals included: aluminum, antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, manganese, nickel, titanium, tungsten, uranium and zinc. Prior research has linked prolonged inhalation of such metals to lung, liver, heart and brain damage.


Chronic exposure may also depress immune system function and raise the risk for certain types of cancer, the researchers said.


The team found that e-liquid exposed to heating coils produced a vapor containing significant amounts of chromium, lead, manganese, nickel and zinc.


Highly toxic arsenic was also found in both the e-liquid and the heated vapor among a subset of 10 vapers, though how that metal got into the unheated e-liquid remains unclear.


The team also noted that toxic metal levels seemed to be higher among vapers who changed their heating coils more often, suggesting that new coils may produce more toxins than older ones.


Regardless, Rule said, vapers should know that “as far as we know, all current electronic cigarettes use a metallic coil to generate the vapor, so not vaping is the only way to avoid or mitigate this (toxic) exposure.”


As for whether vaping is safer than smoking or worse, Rule said the team “did not set out to compare e-cigarettes to cigarettes.”


But Stanton Glantz, a professor of medicine with the University of California, San Francisco’s Center for Tobacco Control, Research and Education, said it’s important to understand that e-cigs “have an entirely different toxicological profile” than cigarettes.


“So the risk profile is going to be different,” Glantz said. “The assumption has been that at least e-cigarettes aren’t worse. But this suggests they have something in them that isn’t even in standard cigarettes that’s worth being worried about.”


That worry was echoed by Patricia Folan, director of the Center for Tobacco Control at Northwell Health in Great Neck, New York.


“Considering the list of metals, toxic materials and lung-damaging materials found in e-cigarettes, these products are not a healthy product for teen consumption,” she said.


“I guess the question is, do we really want to promote and advertise these products and take a chance on damaging the health of our youth, without knowing their health effects and without regulation?” Folan asked.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



How to vacation with a senior loved one

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel,
Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living

By Vista Springs Assisted Living


We all want to go on vacation during the summer months, and there’s no reason why the whole family can’t go on the trip. While traveling with a senior during the holidays or during the summer is more complicated than going on a vacation alone, it’s going to be worth it when you can share the memories you’ve made for years to come.

Make sure your loved one is on board

Ensuring that your family member is prepared for the trip ahead is an essential step to a smooth vacation. Being upfront about what to expect will help everyone be ready for the good and bad of traveling. Don’t frighten them with the experience, but be honest.


It’s also important to make sure they actually want to go. Some seniors are content to stay at home and avoid traveling, so don’t let your excitement and wishes overrule their own. You don’t want to force anyone on a vacation that they don’t want!

Find the right mode of transportation

It’s important to take into account how you will be traveling, as each mode of transportation has positives and negatives that will affect seniors differently. 

Traveling by plane

Airports can be loud and confusing, and some seniors who are wheelchair-bound or struggle with mobility might find air travel especially difficult. You never want the difficulties of travel to overtake the joys of a vacation. However, if you need to get someplace far away or out of the country, it may be the best option to avoid a long trip.

Traveling by car

A road trip somewhere closer to home can help you avoid some of the pitfalls that can be found in a crowded airport, but a car ride comes with its own complications. A long car trip can be very tiring on elderly family members, and the constant jostling can be painful. But for shorter distances or for seniors who want to avoid the crowds at an airport, it can be a good idea.

Traveling by boat

Cruises are a very popular mode of travel and vacation that your loved one might be interested in. While fun for all ages, cruises are especially great for seniors because the trip isn’t as stressful as traveling by plane or car might be, and they have a room to relax in if they get overwhelmed. However, if your loved one gets motion sickness or seasickness, it might not be the best option.

Propose some activities for all ages

Odds are you aren’t only taking mom or dad on your vacation with you. Your spouse, siblings, or kids may be joining you. Because you might have a range of ages, it’s important to plan activities that not only one age group will enjoy. The grown family may love a trip to the museum or a historical site, but your kids may be bored. On the other hand, while your kids might love a water park, it may not work for your senior loved one.


Think of activities that will keep everyone’s interest, or if you do have specific things in mind that might not be all-age friendly, don’t spend an entire day at those locations. Finding fun for all ages isn’t easy, but it is worthwhile.

Keep senior safety in mind

Just as you would remember sunscreen and bug spray for your kids, it’s important to remember the things that your senior loved one needs as well, such as:

  • Medications—get a schedule of when they need to take medicines, and keep them close by even while in a plane or car. 
  • Allergies—if you are planning on staying outdoors, find out their allergies and have a plan for when they act up. Don’t forget about food allergies as well!
  • Healthy foods—Bring along energy-boosting foods that can help seniors regain some stamina. 
  • Sun protection—Make sure you bring along plenty of water for everyone to drink, and that your loved one is getting plenty. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or stroke, as elderly people are susceptible to the heat.

Plan well in advance

If it’s just you and your family on a vacation, it can be fun to have a loose schedule without many activities planned to see where the day takes you. When you are traveling with an older family member, it’s usually a better idea to have a plan. Make sure there are plenty of breaks planned in between activities to give your senior loved one time to adjust to traveling and regain some energy after a lot of activity. 


Be patient, it’s difficult for elderly people to travel and disrupt their daily routine. Try and keep some things the same, like eating at the same time as usual and waking up at the time your loved one is used to getting up. 


There are lots of things to enjoy during the summer, and there’s no reason why your elderly family members have to stay home and miss out on family vacations. As long are you are clear, take their opinions and wishes in mind, and plan ahead, you are sure to have a family vacation that will lift everyone’s spirits.



Wakeful nights, woeful days

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, , , ,
Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat

By Alan Mozes, HealthDay


If you were up all night and you ache all over the next morning, your lack of sound slumber might be to blame.


New research found that sleep loss delivered a double whammy to the brain that all but guaranteed greater levels of body pain.


“Activity in the somatosensory cortex, previously associated with the location and intensity of pain, was enhanced following sleep loss,” explained study author Adam Krause.


And “in two regions called the striatum and the insula, sleep deprivation decreased the activity associated with pain (relief),” he added. These regions control the release of dopamine, often called the “feel-good” hormone.


Krause is a Ph.D. candidate with the Center for Human Sleep Science at the University of California, Berkeley.


During the study, 25 healthy, young participants got the normal eight hours of sleep one night. A week or so later, the same group underwent a night of no sleep whatsoever.


After each session, all the volunteers underwent “thermal pain sensitivity” tests, followed by MRI scans to monitor brain activity while their legs were exposed to uncomfortable levels of heat.


After a full night of sleep, most participants reported feeling heat discomfort at about 111 degrees Fahrenheit.


But after a night of no sleep, that pain threshold dropped to 107 degrees F.


Brain scans pinpointed the neurological basis for the uptick in pain sensitivity following sleep loss.


The research team then surveyed 60 adults (average age 38) over a 48-hour survey period. All had reported experiencing pain during the survey period, and all were asked to keep sleep diaries and report mood and anxiety levels, as well as rank pain intensity when experienced.


“We found that reductions from one night to the next in the quality of the sleep, rather than just the quantity—total hours asleep—predicted worse pain the following day,” Krause noted.


“The optimistic takeaway here is that better sleep can help manage and lower pain. (It’s) a natural analgesic that we can all pick up in repeat prescription each night, if we choose,” he said.


“It is our hope that this research especially encourages health care systems to bring sleep closer to the center of treatment. If we can improve sleep conditions in the setting in which patients are most often in pain—the hospital ward—perhaps we can reduce the dosage of narcotic drugs and clear hospital beds sooner,” Krause suggested.


The findings were published recently in the Journal of Neuroscience.


Monika Haack is an associate professor of neurology with Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s Human Sleep & Inflammatory Systems Laboratory in Boston. She expressed little surprise at the findings.


“There is very strong evidence to date—and the current study supports this again—that short or disturbed sleep, either in clinical (settings) or in the general population, increases our experience of next-day pain,” Haack said.


“And a number of studies, including the current study, have shown that sleep is a stronger predictor of pain than pain is a predictor of how we sleep,” she added.


“I think the most important and novel finding of the study is that the authors found a biological basis, neuronal brain structures, that correspond to the pain sensitivity increase observed after sleep loss. Only if we understand the biology and mechanisms underlying this relationship will we be able to develop target- or mechanism-specific strategies to prevent pain-processing changes associated with short or disturbed sleep,” Haack concluded.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Healthy fats in Mediterranean diet won’t boost weight

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Food, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , , ,
Study shows a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetable fats such as olive oil and nuts had little effect on body weight or waist circumference compared to people on a low-fat diet. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


An eating plan that includes healthy fats such as olive oil and nuts isn’t likely to cause weight gain, a new study finds.


That’s good news for people who’d prefer to try the Mediterranean diet—which includes healthy fats—over a diet that’s low in fat. And the study authors suggest that current health guidelines may be creating an unnecessary fear of these healthful fats.


“More than 40 years of nutritional policy has advocated for a low-fat diet, but we’re seeing little impact on rising levels of obesity,” said study lead author Dr. Ramon Estruch, of the University of Barcelona in Spain.


“Our study shows that a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetable fats such as olive oil and nuts had little effect on body weight or waist circumference compared to people on a low-fat diet. The Mediterranean diet has well-known health benefits and includes healthy fats, such as vegetable oils, fish and nuts,” Estruch explained in a journal news release.


However, he also pointed out that not all fats are created equal. “Our findings certainly do not imply that unrestricted diets with high levels of unhealthy fats such as butter, processed meat, sweetened beverages, desserts or fast-foods are beneficial,” Estruch added.


The study included more than 7,400 women and men in Spain, aged 55 to 80. The study participants ate one of three eating plans: an unrestricted-calorie Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil; an unrestricted-calorie Mediterranean diet rich in nuts; or a low-fat diet meant to avoid all dietary fat.


All the participants had type 2 diabetes or high heart risk. More than 90 percent were overweight or obese, the study authors noted.


After five years, total fat intake fell from 40 percent to 37 percent in the low-fat diet group, and rose in both Mediterranean diet groups, from about 40 percent to 42 percent. The percentage of proteins and carbohydrates decreased in both Mediterranean diet groups, the findings showed.

People in all three groups lost some weight: an average of almost 2 pounds (0.88 kilograms) per person in the olive oil group, 1.3 pounds (0.60 kg) in the low-fat diet group, and 0.9 pounds (0.40 kg) in the nut group, the researchers said.


Waist circumference did increase slightly in all three groups, though less so in those on the healthy fat diets. The low-fat group had an increase of about a half-inch (1.2 centimeters) per person. The olive oil group saw an increase of about one-third of an inch (0.85 cm), and the nut group only saw an increase in waist circumference of 0.14 inches (0.37 cm), the study authors reported.


The report was published June 6 in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.


“The fat content of foods and diets is simply not a useful metric to judge long-term harms or benefits,” Dariush Mozaffarian, professor in the School of Nutrition Science & Policy at Tufts University in Boston, wrote in an accompanying commentary.


“Energy density and total caloric contents can be similarly misleading. Rather, modern scientific evidence supports an emphasis on eating more calories from fruits, nuts, vegetables, beans, fish, yogurt, phenolic-rich vegetable oils, and minimally processed whole grains; and fewer calories from highly processed foods rich in starch, sugar, salt, or trans-fat,” Mozaffarian explained.


“Dietary guidelines should be revised to lay to rest the outdated, arbitrary limits on total fat consumption. Calorie-obsessed caveats and warnings about healthier, higher-fat choices such as nuts, phenolic-rich vegetable oils, yogurt, and even perhaps cheese, should also be dropped,” Mozaffarian wrote.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Cat of the week: Montana

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, ,
Montana at rest

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).


In April of 2019, while out tending to her feral colonies, our favorite cat wrangler, Sandy D., came across this beaten-down and bedraggled, intact boy who had obviously been having a hard time on the streets. Suffering from a ruptured cat bite abscess on the left cheek, the 3-year-old (born in the spring of 2016) was a smelly, sticky, matted mess of draining pus and dead tissue. Graphic, but true.


Sandy brought kitty out to the clinic so that Dr. Jen could tend to his medical needs, and in doing so, the good doc discovered that he was FIV+ (no big surprise there); he also had a nasty toenail injury, greasy stud tail, major intestinal parasites and was downright filthy. After deep-cleaning not only his wound site but his entire body, Dr. Jen neutered him, got antibiotics and pain meds on board, dewormed and vaccinated him—he wasn’t ready to go into our program at Big Sid’s, but he was at least squeaky clean and feelin’ fine for his foster time at Sandy’s.


Although Dr. Jen is quite partial to the big boys she affectionately call ‘fat-heads’, it is a cryin’ shame that this darling, dapper fellow had to roam the streets a fully functioning, fighting male for so long. Given the fact that his face was in such rough shape when he arrived, Dr. Jen thought naming him Montana (think Scarface) was more than appropriate, though at his recheck exam three weeks later, his facial fur was growing in very nicely, covering the gooey grossness he was sporting when they first met. In fact, this sweetheart healed so remarkably well that to look at him now you’d never know what injuries he had once sustained.


Indoor life suits Montana to a ‘T’, and he has acclimated to his surroundings better than we all had anticipated, given his history. Here are some astute observations from our volunteers:


“Montana is a pretty laid-back guy, but does have a tendency to get a little upset at times if another cat gets in his way. He loves people, attention, and just hanging out in the windowsill. He’s a nice, big, solid boy and would make the perfect cat for a household with older kids who would know to respect his space.” 

“Montana is a very chill boy. He doesn’t do much other than perch himself on a windowsill and watch birds all day long. He keeps to himself most of the time, but he doesn’t mind sharing his preferred perch with a cat or two, so he could probably live with or without a buddy. He’s not one to look for attention, but he is very accepting of love when you seek him out. He has a tendency to nip when he’s had enough of you, so he should probably go to a home without young children.”


Overall we are very pleased with his progress in the time we have had him—it’s not even three weeks after he became a Sid’s Kid that we are sharing his story. We are enjoying watching him transform into a silky, stunning (former) stud, but even more so, we are delighting in how happy he simply is enjoying his view of the world, now from the inside out. To see him lounge on the floor with his legs stretched out in front of him, relaxing and soaking in the sun, accepting a gentle head scratch or back stroke brings us all so much joy; after all, this boy right here deserves all of the pampering he can get!

More about Montana:

  • Domestic short hair
  • Large
  • Black & White (Tuxedo)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • House-trained
  • FIV+
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Prefers a home without other cats, children

Want to adopt Montana? 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.

Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!




Wet spring weather has not deterred Ideal Park redevelopment

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

While the unusually wet spring has caused the water to be higher than normal at Ideal Park, the park’s redevelopment plans continue to move forward with Wyoming City officials expecting to reopen the park on schedule in June 2020. 

Earlier this year, the Wyoming City Council approved a contact to Katerberg Verhage, Inc. for about $1.6 million for the project. The plan will include an accessible playground, improved parking with enhanced safety features, Buck Creek viewing stations, basketball court, shelter, and restroom. The park also will feature an improved walking and bike trail with connection to the City’s interurban trail system.

“All the development will be on the east side of the park,” said Wyoming’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt. This was per residents who encouraged the city to relocate primary facilities to the eastside of the creek because of flooding, Rynbrandt said. 

Ideal Park’s playground area after the 2014 tornado. (City of Wyoming)

In 2014, the City of Wyoming had a tornado which caused significant damage at Ideal Park, including the lost of many trees — some more than 100 years old — and the park’s playground equipment. It took two years for the city to clean up the park and it was reopened in 2016 only for a second tornado to hit the park area followed by a flood. 

“We have been working toward the redevelopment: the return of playgrounds, the return of trees to that area of our community, particularly to that park since 2014,” Rynbrandt said.

The art deco bridge and the original lodge at Ideal Park were left untouched by the 2014 and 2016 tornados. (City of Wyoming)

Amazingly, what was not touched was the original lodge and art deco bridge which was constructed through the Works Progress Administration (WPA), a program designed to put people to work during the Great Drepression years in the 1930s. In fact, Ideal Park is one of the oldest parks in Kent County, dating back to the 1930s. It was South Kent’s preeminent park hosting a number huge events include the local Republican Party. In the 1960s, former Governor George Romney and former President Gerald R. Ford were pictured shaking hands at one of these Republican Party events.

In 2015, after meeting with residents to discuss plans, the city council approved the Ideal Park master plan and was then able to write a grant for Michigan’s Natural Resources Trust Fund. The city received $300,000. The rest of the project will be funded through the dedicated City of Wyoming Parks and Recreation operational millage. 

The entire Ideal Park project will be about $3.3 million, with the first phase of about $1.6 million being approved in April of this year, Rynbrandt said, adding “with the goal of having the park opened by June 6, 2020.”

Noodle your veggies

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Food, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , ,
Pasta made from zucchini noodles—zoodles, as they’re called—has about a quarter of the calories you’d find in regular noodles. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Len Canter, HealthDay


Want to get more veggies into your diet but feeling bored with the same old side dishes?


Making noodles from vegetables is the answer. They’re a great substitute for high-calorie, low-fiber traditional pasta and work just as well as a base for your favorite sauces.


While it’s possible to use a sturdy vegetable peeler to turn carrots or zucchini into noodle-length strips, a tool called a mandoline will cut your prep time in half. Just be aware that the mandoline blade has very sharp edges. You’ll want to hold the pusher accessory as you run the length of your vegetables across the blade. In addition, wear a thick kitchen glove to protect your fingers.


Zucchini is perfect for the mandoline because it slices easily. You can make the following sauce ahead of time. It yields enough for another meal.



Zucchini Noodles With Marinara Sauce

4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Red chili flakes to taste
2 28-ounce cans San Marzano tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/4 teaspoon each salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup white wine or broth, any variety
1 basil sprig
2 large zucchini
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive, safflower or grapeseed oil
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Place a large stockpot over medium heat. Brown the garlic in two tablespoons of oil for two to three minutes. Add chili flakes, the tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, salt and black pepper and stir. Next, add the wine or broth and the basil. Bring to a boil over high heat and then reduce to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, 30 to 40 minutes until the sauce thickens. Set aside.

Wash the zucchini. Cut off the stems and discard. Insert the fine tooth blade into a mandoline and tighten the screw to hold it in place. Press the pusher into the center of the first zucchini and hold the pusher as you run the vegetable over the surface of the mandoline to form the noodles. Repeat with the other zucchini.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the tablespoon of the oil of your choice. Add the zucchini noodles and cook two to three minutes, stirring often until they soften. Top with marinara sauce and toss well. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.




The Apollo Space Program; America’s Shining Moment

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Apollo 11 makes history by landing on the moon. (Photo courtesy of NASA)

By Tom Norton
tom@wktv.org

It only lasted a few years; from 1961 to 1974, and then it was over. It shouldn’t have been, however. From Christopher Columbus’ tales of a world that was new to Europeans to the unrivaled imagery of American’s driving a car on the moon, very few things, if anything, captures the imagination of the common person and inspires whole nations to dream big, better and sometimes achieve those great big goals. 

Such was the Apollo Space Program, given a title here because it has the unique rank of being the biggest non-military effort by a nation in the history of human civilization.

Listen to “The Whole Picture Podcast on WKTV Journal on July 16, in honor of launch day 50 years ago. WKTV Journal Editor Tom Norton speaks with NASA Historian Glen Swanson, and local cultural anthropologist Deana Wiebel about the science, history, and effects of the Apollo mission 50 years later.


Without stepping into bumper sticker hyper-bole, facts lend themselves to the position that The Apollo Space Program was only possible because of the free, democratic society that while being messy, somehow succeed in getting the job done. Scientists argued and yelled with one another, rivalries existed, political factions developed and yet still, the unprecedented-in-human-history-technological-effort rolled slowly on to eventual success. None of it was guaranteed, in fact, much was still unknown and like Columbus, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, the Vikings, and the Chinese, the idea of exploration captured imaginations of everyday people and in the case of Apollo, it became a very serious (and deadly) competition to be the first in what would be known as the race to the moon.

It all took place within nine short years and as much as being propelled by rocket fuel, the Apollo program was propelled by the quest to beat the Soviets to the moon. It was a race for bragging rights of epic proportions.  Looking back, one can only marvel at the ability of humankind to collectively focus on such a singular goal in such a short period of time that didn’t involve a national crisis such as World War II.

In the case of Apollo, what drove Americans higher, faster and further was the determination that our arch enemy at the time, Soviet Russia, was reaching for the same goal and we would be damned if they were going to get to the moon before we did. It was more than a contest, however. It was seen at the time, as a deadly serious effort to do everything, everywhere to stop the spread of communism by Russia.  The Soviets were using the propaganda of their own successes in space as a tool to promote communism to developing countries both in their hemisphere and the west and the feat of walking on the moon was considered propaganda of the first order.

Mission control monitoring the lunar landing. (Photo courtesy of NASA)

During Apollo, this race and the mandate of an assassinated president contributed to what became known as “go fever.” It drove the American side of the moon race like a type of rocket fuel. Thousands of engineers and scientists took risks, signed off on methods and the push for results that eventually got ahead of safety. “Go fever” culminated in disaster when three astronauts chosen to be the first Apollo mission, Apollo 1; Grand Rapids native Roger Chaffee, Gus Grisholm and Ed White were killed in a fire inside the command module during a launch rehearsal test in January 1967. It set the program back 20 months. Apollo was down, but not out. The resolve of NASA intensified, the resolve of NASA to get it right, beat the Russians and do it within President John F. Kennedy’s deadline of “before the decade is out.”

Today we assume Kennedy’s mandate was an easy decision to make; a no brainer as in “of course we want to walk on the moon!” But it was far from that. The idea of walking on the moon in 1961 was arguably more foreign to the American mind in 1961 than the idea of walking on Mars is today. Nothing outside of science fiction had ever been seriously dreamt of and it was immediately apparent the extent of the technological challenge that lay before any nation that publicly announced such a goal.

 

Photo of the Earth from the moon taken by Apollo 11 astronauts on 20 June 1969. One of many photos timestamped and organized temporally on apolloinrealtime.org (Photo courtesy of NASA/apolloinrealtime.org)

Science Saves the Day

In 1961, NASA administrator James Webb was certain about one thing.: Going to the moon was going to take years. Years that would outlast political administrations. The drive to outperform the Russians couldn’t and wouldn’t be enough to sustain such a long haul technological effort. At that time, the pace the Russians were setting was impressive. They had already put men in space and now walked in space.


Webb knew that if this was merely about a race, the idea of doing something after the Russians had already done it probably would not sustain the effort. The administrator conveyed the concern of the agency’s technical and scientific community to Jerome Wiesner in May 1961, saying that “the most careful consideration must be given to the scientific and technological components of the total program and how to present the picture to the world and to our own nation of a program that has real value and validity and from which solid additions to knowledge can be made, even if every one of the specific so-called ‘spectacular’ flights or events are done after they have been accomplished by the Russians.” He asked that Wiesner help him “make sure that this component of solid, and yet imaginative, total scientific and technological value is built in.” 1

Here in essence, Webb is warning that the politics of going to moon may not last long enough for NASA to overcome the immense technological hurdles to make it happen. It appears he knew this immense goal required an unending stream of new inventions, systems and skills that heretofore simply didn’t exist. In a way, it’s like Columbus aiming to discover a new world without the first real ship even being developed. In Webb’s view it was vital that NASA capture the public’s imagination of the scientific advancements that will result from going to the moon and of course, beat the Russians while we’re at it.

 

The Apollo 11 lunar landing mission crew, pictured from left to right, Neil A. Armstrong, commander; Michael Collins, command module pilot; and Edwin E. Aldrin Jr., lunar module pilot. (Photo courtesy of NASA)

The sheer volume of problems that needed to be solved by new inventions and all within a spanse of nine years is staggering. Neil Armstrong in an oral history stated   “I was certainly aware that this was a culmination of the work of 300,000 or 400,000 people over a decade and that the nation’s hopes and outward appearance largely rested on how the results came out.”  And as the years rolled on, the new inventions and developments that came out of the Gemini to Mercury to Apollo missions in those nine short years began to add up:

1. CAT scanner: this cancer-detecting technology was first used to find imperfections in space components.

2. Computer microchip: modern microchips descend from integrated circuits used in the Apollo Guidance Computer.

3. Cordless tools: power drills and vacuum cleaners use technology designed to drill for moon samples.

4. Ear thermometer: a camera-like lens that detects infrared energy we feel as heat was originally used to monitor the birth of stars.

5. Freeze-dried food: this reduces food weight and increases shelf life without sacrificing nutritional value.

6. Insulation: home insulation uses reflective material that protects spacecraft from radiation.

7. Invisible braces: teeth-straightening is less embarrassing thanks to transparent ceramic brace brackets made from spacecraft materials.

8. Joystick: this computer gaming device was first used on the Apollo Lunar Rover.

9. Memory foam: created for aircraft seats to soften landing, this foam, which returns to its original shape, is found in mattresses and shock absorbing helmets.

10. Satellite television: technology used to fix errors in spacecraft signals helps reduce scrambled pictures and sound in satellite television signals.

11. Scratch resistant lenses: astronaut helmet visor coating makes our spectacles ten times more scratch resistant.

12. Shoe insoles: athletic shoe companies adapted space boot designs to lessen impact by adding spring and ventilation.

13. Smoke detector: Nasa invented the first adjustable smoke detector with sensitivity levels to prevent false alarms.

14. Swimsuit: Nasa used the same principles that reduce drag in space to help create the world’s fastest swimsuit for Speedo, rejected by some professionals for giving an unfair advantage.

15. Water filter: domestic versions borrow a technique NASA pioneered to kill bacteria in water taken into space.

So the next time you hear that America can’t do this, or can’t do that; can’t create cars that don’t pollute, or build roads that last more than a few years; or solve this or that challenge because it will take another 50 years…

Just think of Apollo. America’s shining moment.

Credits:  1.  James E. Webb to Jerome B. Wiesner, 2 May 1961, NASA Historical Reference Collection.

Local Apollo 11 events:


Scavenger Hunt: The Grand Rapids Public Museum is hosting a scavenger hunt for four moon rocks. To join the fun, click here.


Remembering Apollo 11 – 50 Years Later: the GRPM and the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association is hosting this event at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 20 at the Veen Observatory, 3308 Kissing Rock Ave., Lowell. NASA Historian Glen Swanson will be speaking at 6:30 and 8 p.m. on Michigan’s involvement in the great space race. The program is free.

Pet-friendly travel ideas around West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Holidays, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Senior Living, ,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


The family pet doesn’t have to miss out on the family vacation. Here are a few ideas of places to stay and fun things to do with your furry friend in West Michigan. Find more pet-friendly travel information in the Carefree Travel Guide. 

Pet-friendly travel in the south region 

No need to leave Fido at home during your next Coldwater Country getaway. Several local hotels, including the Coldwater Inn, are pet-friendly.


South Haven has become an extremely popular destination for pets, so many businesses cater to pet owners and their furry friends. For lodging, check into the Sun ‘n Sand Resort or the Kal-Haven Outpost for unique lodging experiences. Comfort Suites is also accommodating to pets.


Looking for a vacation rental home? Check out Lakeshore Lodging for their select pet-friendly properties. Once you arrive, treat your dog to a beach day on one of South Haven’s pet-friendly beaches. Outdoor seating is also available at select restaurants downtown.


Your four-legged friend is welcome on Journeyman Distillery’s outdoor deck, overlooking the 18-hole Welter’s Folly putting green in Three Oaks.


Pets are welcome to come with you to enjoy an evening of music on the patio at Waypost Brewing in Fennville. Click here to see upcoming performers and events.  


Lakeshore Lodging has pet-friendly vacation rental townhomes, condos, cottages, and cabins near the gorgeous Lake Michigan lakeshore in the Saugatuck, Douglas, and Fennville area. 

Pet-friendly travels in central region 

Historic White Pine Village is open to dogs and people alike. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am until 5pm (last tour tickets at 3:30pm), the Village is situated on 12 acres with 30 buildings and/or exhibits to see. It generally takes about two hours to walk through. Dogs must be on a leash and owners are expected to clean up any messes. For more information please visit the Mason County Historical Society website.


Holland is a very pet-friendly town. The walkable downtown area is perfect for taking a stroll and grabbing a brew while enjoying the atmosphere of a bustling downtown on an outdoor patio with your pup. There are also many local pet-friendly parks for walking, running, hiking, and playing, such as Windmill Island Gardens. Pet-friendly Holland Hotels include Best Western Plus, Microtel Inn & Suites, Residence Inn, and more. Contact the Holland Visitors Bureau for your Guide to Dog-friendly Holland.


Traveling in Mecosta County? The Country Inn and Suites in Big Rapids allows pets to stay overnight for a fee of $10 per night, per pet. More lodging accommodations in Mecosta County can be found under the “Lodging” tab on Mecosta County’s website. If you’re looking to pamper your pet, there are multiple venues throughout Mecosta County offering things from homemade treats to pet grooming. For a more detailed list of places in Mecosta County that allow pets, visit the “Pet Friendly Amenities” page. 

Muskegon County also loves pets. With one of Michigan’s best dog beaches and a new downtown Muskegon dog park — plus an assortment of pet-friendly accommodations — your pet is welcome to Visit Muskegon too! Information on pet-friendly dining in Muskegon can be found at the Visit Muskegon site. 


Find pet-travel tips or your new travel companion at Pet.A.Pawlooza, July 27th in Grand Rapids. Hosted by Michele’s Rescue, Pet.A.Pawlooza is a collaborative community event promoting education, resources and adoptions with vendors that are made up of shelters, rescues, wildlife rehabs, veterinarians, boarders, groomers and pet-related products.

Pet-friendly travel north/UP region

From canine-approved lodging that includes the newest all-suite hotel to water bowls at sidewalk seating and a park that begs for a game of fetch, leaving your best friend behind doesn’t have to be a part of the vacation plan in Marquette.


Your pooch is welcome to bring you along to the Petoskey Area where you’ll both be welcome to stay in specified rooms throughout the area, including full-service resorts Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls and Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs. The Terrace Inn & 1911 Restaurant in Bay View offers a pet-friendly apartment unit. Chain facilities such as Holiday Inn Express & Suites Petoskey as well as locally owned hotels with indoor pools like Apple Tree Inn in Petoskey, Odawa Hotel of Petoskey, and Stafford’s Crooked River Lodge & Suites in Alanson. Stop by Ruff Life Pet Outfitters in downtown Petoskey for everything to keep your pup happy. Zoll Street Beach in Harbor Springs is a great place to cool off and play. And most parks and trails in the Petoskey Area offer a terrific place to sniff and stroll (while leashed, please).


At the Terrace Inn in Bay View, Petoskey, the former downstairs ice cream parlor has been converted to a pet-friendly apartment. It has a queen bedroom, living room with wicker chairs, comfy red leatherette sofa, furnished kitchen, full bath, and private entrance that opens to the garden. There is an outdoor pet-friendly patio too, with a gate so you can tie up your pet at the table (or not if the gate is closed). The apartment can be rented year round by the weekend, for a week, or a month. 

Shanty Creek Resort recommends bringing your precious pup with and stopping into nearby Meadowpond Pet Resort. Just a few minutes down the road from Shanty Creek in Bellaire, Meadowpond is a full-service resort for dogs offering indoor/outdoor suites. In addition to being open 24/7, Meadowpond guests can enjoy the in-and-out privileges allowing Fido to join the family on day trips to nearby Torch Lake and other fun area destinations.


Bring the entire family to Mackinac Island this season with the Mission Point Pooch at the Point package, which offers accommodations in their newly renovated guest rooms, a welcome amenity for your pet, round-trip ferry tickets, and much more. Resting on the sunrise side of Mackinac Island, Mission Point is a great pet-friendly summertime retreat located just a short stroll from historic downtown. Boasting 18 acres of lakefront property on the sprawling shores of Lake Huron, Mission Point offers genuine hospitality and relaxed elegance with on-site dining and recreation experiences.


Drummond Island Resort is pet-friendly and has large, open green spaces for dogs to roam free.


The Traverse City Econo Lodge loves canine guests. Call in advance to ensure the availability of a dog-friendly room. Pet-friendly accommodations keep you in ground-floor rooms near the exits, so it is easier to go out for a walk. And don’t forget to get your dog a treat when you check in.


Zero in on childhood dangers

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, How-To's, Kids Activities,
Children safety alert—what you need to know to child-proof your house. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Health Beat Staff


First-time parents are barraged with safety tips from every side.


Lock the cupboards! Cover the outlets! Block the stairs! Lock the windows! Kiss knick-knacks goodbye!


As it turns out, all of that well-intended advice is valuable. Every one of those warnings makes sense.


But home safety isn’t just for new parents, or parents of tiny tots. Until all your kids are grown, Hanna Jaworski, MD, a pediatrician at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, is a strong proponent of regular reviews of your home based on the ages of your children.


“What gets infants and toddlers in trouble is obviously different than for older kids,” Dr. Jaworski said. “We need to use common sense when talking about safety at home. Gates, locks, covers—they’re all smart. But kids are smart, too—and curious, at every age.”


Taking a few minutes to think about what your kids are into now should give you clues about potential pitfalls in and around your house. Be mindful that:

  • Infants who can’t move themselves well are vulnerable to suffocation.
  • Mobile babies can fall down stairs or hit sharp corners.
  • Toddlers might drink or eat anything they can reach, and they can climb into a tub of water.
  • Preschoolers are often intrigued by electrical outlets and might try to stick something in the plug openings.
  • Elementary-age kids want that “thing” off a shelf that’s too high and don’t always think about consequences to actions.
  • Kids of all ages might forget about traffic if a ball flies into the street.
  • Tweens may think sports stunts or online friends are safe.

Safety for “littles”

Being a parent who is actively engaged with your child is the most important safety measure you can take.


“You could have everything in the house maxed out for safety, but if you aren’t watching the kids, or engaged with them where they are at risk, something is going to happen,” Dr. Jaworski said, citing baby gates as an example. “Yes, you put the gate up, but did you see your toddler pulling on it or bumping against it? If not, it could dislodge the next time he comes through.”


In her pediatric practice, after-hours calls often require emergency room visits because kids have ingested something.


“For example, a child swallowing a single magnet might not be a big deal, but it must be checked, because if it turns out to be two or more, those magnets will want to go together. That can be deadly,” Dr. Jaworski said. “Or, if the casing on that button battery was compromised in any way, the acid it contains is awful. Not that it happens every day, but it happens.”


Jaworski also encourages parents to look for the hidden dangers in the house.


According to Consumer Products Safety Commission statistics, between 2011 and 2013, 21,700 children required emergency room visits due to tip-overs from furniture and/or TVs. Between 2000 and 2013, the Commission reports 360 child deaths from falling furniture and TVs. The agency notes that the reported number of fatalities “should be considered incomplete, due to a time lapse in reporting to the (Commission).”


Knowing the actual number is even higher, to lose even a single child to a preventable accident such as furniture or TV tip-overs is one too many.


Kids can open drawers of a dresser to climb, for example, or reach and pull. Jaworski advises parents to buy inexpensive straps or bracket systems designed to secure furniture to walls.


Talk to your pediatrician about toys, positioning devices and activity seats. Most doctors try to be in tune to what’s out there.


Jaworski noted that after several years off the market, baby walkers are back on the scene.


Before going out and buying the latest thing or putting your child into a thing, find out if your pediatrician is familiar with any risks. You can also monitor the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s constantly updated childrens product safety warnings and recalls to check the products you see.

Safety for “bigs”

Once again, Dr. Jaworski stresses common sense and your presence as the key factors in keeping kids safe.


“Street safety becomes a concern when your child learns to ride a bike, for example,” she said. “Can that same child safely play in the living room without you? Probably yes. Should you have a watchful eye and ear for your elementary kids playing outside? Absolutely.”


It’s important to know your child, because they are so different.


“I have a son who would leap before he looks,” Dr. Jaworski said. “And he’s curious about nature. I know he would wonder what that leaf tastes like. Would he be at risk for eating a toxic plant? Probably not, but because I know he’s curious about it, I’m going to be watchful over what he wants to eat in the yard.”


Your goal as a parent is to help your kids learn to be good decision makers.


“You can’t protect them forever,” Dr. Jaworski said. “You can’t be everywhere. But when you’re engaged, you’re creating a powerful combination: your presence and the teaching moments that come from being there. I hope my son would think, ‘Mom said this leaf might make me sick, I better not try it.’ It’s those opportunities that lead them to stay safe when you are not there.”

Safety for tweens and teens

Jaworski’s advice to parents of older kids is to zero in on independence-related dangers. If you have a 14-year-old daughter who is on the Internet a lot, who is she talking to, what is she doing? If they are going to drive soon, is your family culture one that always buckles up? What about texting?


It’s also critical to know your kids’ friends and be clear about personal safety. Keep an open relationship. It is not OK to drink alcohol, for example, but if they’ve been at a party drinking, it’s more than OK to call for a ride.


Yes, it’s mostly about you being engaged. It’s easy to get busy with work, chores and demands. But taking a “T” for time out and assessing whether you are prioritizing safety at home just might be the best thing you can do for your family today.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat



Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know — the weekend edition

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“People leave traces of themselves where they feel most comfortable, most worthwhile.”

Haruki Murakami

This is not Kentwood

Road trip!

The City of Kentwood has released its tentative road construction and maintenance schedule for the summer. Go here for the details.

Audacious Hoops performs July 24 at the KDL Kentwood Branch

How audacious!

“Hooping” has become its own art form and perhaps no one has done more for it than Grand Rapids’s own Audria Larsen, the founder of Audacious Hoops. Here’s the story.

Courtesy Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show

Get your tickets now!

Tickets now on sale at the DeVos Place® and Van Andel Arena® box offices and online at Ticketmaster.com. See Ticketmaster for all current pricing and availability. Here’s the story.

Fun fact:

Only once

Seems hard to believe — especially with millions of albums sold — but the original Fleetwood Mac band had only one song top the Billboard Hot 100 chart at #1 — Dreams, from their 1977 album, Rumours. Thanks, Stevie.

5 ways to lose weight … without dieting

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

The no-diet approach to weight loss involves pre-planning and stocking your home with healthy choices. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Alyssa Allen, Spectrum Health Beat


It’s a vicious cycle: Start a diet. Crave all the foods you cannot have. Fail. Feel guilty. Gain more weight. Start another diet…


According to Kristi Veltkamp, a dietitian at Spectrum Health, there’s good reason why diets don’t work.


“I cannot tell you how many people have said to me, ‘If I would just have been happy where I was before I started dieting,’” Veltkamp said. “Many people gain more weight with diets. There’s a constant desire there to lose the weight, but diets keep setting you up for failure.”


Thankfully, Veltkamp is here to help.

Here are her top 5 tips for how to lose weight … no dieting necessary:

1. Become more aware of when you are truly hungry and when you are full

“Most people don’t really listen to their bodies when they’re eating,” Veltkamp said.


There might be food in front of you, so you eat it all. Or you’re stressed or hurting, so you emotionally eat to distract yourself and cover the pain. Or you’re at a party where everyone’s eating, so you do, too.


She urges people to create a scale for their hunger, where 0 is starving and 10 is stuffed. You should eat at a 3—not too hungry and not too full. Also, remember that hunger is a physical feeling. Try to focus on when you are truly hungry and when you want to eat for other reasons.


To be more aware of when you’re full, she urges slowing down and focusing on eating. It takes most people 20 minutes to recognize when their stomach is full. Put your fork down between bites, sit down, reduce distractions (like television, driving or working) while eating. At home, put a small portion on your plate, and if you’re still hungry, go back for more. At a restaurant, put half of your serving in a box right away, split a meal with someone, or simply divide your food on your plate to give yourself a stopping point to check in and see how full you are.

2. Create a distraction box or list of things to do besides eating

It’s tough to combat the urge to emotionally eat.


“When you’re not hungry, and you want to eat, food is a distraction from what you’re really feeling,” she said.


So Veltkamp suggests creating other distractions besides food. Figure out your most vulnerable place for eating when you’re not hungry (for most people, it’s the room with your television). In that room, keep a box with things you can do, or that will create a distraction, when you want to emotionally eat: nail polish, bubble wrap, knitting, crocheting, adult coloring books, Sudoku, crossword puzzles or journal.

3. Be realistic

Have a realistic view of eating and willpower. If you want a cookie, don’t deny yourself. Eat one, not 12. Or eat something special once a week, not every day. Enjoy it, and don’t feel guilty about it. If you fail and binge, forgive yourself and move on.

4. Plan ahead

Planning meals and surrounding yourself with healthy food sets you up for success. Veltkamp said if you have planned and shopped for meals and snacks, you’re less likely to run out and grab fast food or unhealthy comfort foods.


Do weekly food prep on the weekends so healthy meals are easy to throw together during your busy times. She recommends Pinterest or Yummly to find recipes.

Surround yourself with healthy snacks that combine protein and carbs, such as crackers and cheese, peanut butter, yogurt, trail mix, granola bars, string cheese, hard boiled eggs, or her personal favorite—dark chocolate covered almonds.


Also, she urges people to plan for troublesome scenarios like restaurants and social situations. Look up restaurant menus before you go to plan what you will order. Think about what you will eat at a party before you go. Pick one dessert you want the most and eat that—not everything.

5. Respect yourself

Respect, not accept, where you are. Veltkamp sees many people who keep bashing themselves and punishing themselves for failed diets. A healthy mindset can help lead the way to a healthy body.


“If you can start to respect yourself, you can give yourself more freedom to get on with the non-dieting approach,” she said. “Guilt and shame just leads to more over-eating.”


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Night owl? Check the family tree

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, , ,
Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


Can’t sleep at night? Perhaps genetics is to blame.


In a new study, dozens of gene regions linked to insomnia have been pinpointed—and researchers also report a link between insomnia and heart disease.


American and British investigators analyzed data from more than 450,000 people in the United Kingdom—29 percent of whom reported frequent sleeplessness—and identified 57 gene regions associated with insomnia.


Those links were independent of known insomnia risk factors such as lifestyle, caffeine consumption, depression or stress.


“Our findings confirm a role for genetics in insomnia symptoms and expand upon the four previously found (genetic regions) for this condition,” said study lead author Jacqueline Lane. She’s a researcher at the Center for Genomic Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.


“All of these identified regions help us understand why some people get insomnia, which pathways and systems are affected and point to possible new therapeutic targets,” Lane added in a hospital news release.


Researchers also found evidence that increased insomnia symptoms nearly doubled the risk of coronary artery disease. They were also linked to depression and a reduced sense of well-being.


“Insomnia has a really significant impact on millions of people worldwide. We’ve long known there’s a link between insomnia and chronic disease. Now our findings suggest that depression and heart disease are actually a result of persistent insomnia,” said co-lead author Samuel Jones. He’s a research fellow at the University of Exeter in England.


Lane said these results open possibilities for future medications.


“All of these identified regions are possible new therapeutic targets for insomnia,” she said. “And 16 of these regions contain known drug targets.”


This in turn could have an effect on heart disease, as “the new causal relationships indicate the potential usefulness of insomnia therapeutics as possible treatments for coronary artery disease and depression,” Lane said.


The study was published online recently in Nature Genetics.


Insomnia affects 10 percent to 20 percent of people worldwide, and studies have suggested that about a third of the risk of insomnia is inherited.


Previous research has suggested that insomnia increases the risk of anxiety disorders, alcoholism, major depression and heart disease, but little has been known about the mechanisms involved in that increased risk.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Eyes on digital devices

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Non-Profits, , ,

By Katie Vinkovich, COA, Grand Rapids Lions Club Vision Clinic


Did you know that digital devices can negatively affect your vision? On average, Americans spend seven or more hours a day looking at their screens. Digital devices give off a high-energy blue light that can contribute to many eye-related problems. This overexposure to blue light can lead to sleep problems, blurred vision, eye strain, and headaches, among other things.


The average millennial spends nine hours per day on devices such as smartphones, tablets, computer monitors and flat-screen TVs which also emit blue light. Healthy eyes allow you to use technology comfortably for longer periods of time. Lack of comprehensive exams means that you may have unknown eye problems that can hold you back from using technology to its fullest.


Below are ways to limit blue light exposure and prevent future problems:

  • Turn off devices at least one hour prior to going to bed.
  • Maintain a comfortable distance away from devices, use the zoom feature to see small print instead of bringing devices closer to your face.
  • Turn down your screen brightness to reduce glare.
  • Schedule an eye exam.
  • Ask your eye care provider or optician about blue light filtering lens options for glasses.

Where to camp in West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


S’mores, campfires, sky-lit nights, and the sounds of nature… what’s not to love about camping in West Michigan! Whether you are looking for a spot to pitch the tent or planning where to hook up the RV, we’ve got some great ideas to help with your next camping adventure. 

Glamping (i.e., glamorous camping)

On June 15th, The Fields was unveiled as the Midwest’s first luxury glamping experience. Nestled within a lush working blueberry farm in South Haven, The Fields is a 30-acre site that offer guests a deluxe outdoor experience complete with luxurious tents, chef-prepared meals, and access to a variety of exciting on-site and local activities. Located only 3.5 miles from the glistening beaches of Lake Michigan, the property features 10 rooms that each come complete with wood-burning stove, king-size bed, luxury linens, en-suite bathrooms, and luxury bathroom amenities and towels, along with stylized fixtures and seating, providing guests with five-star resort conveniences combined with effortless comfort. Reservations are available through the last weekend in October. Click here to book your luxury camping experience at The Fields.

In addition to tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, the Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday unveiled four new Luxury Glamping Tents this season, and they’ll make you want to stay all summer. Perfect for a romantic weekend away, the tents offer both heating and cooling, plus rocking chairs on the porch to enjoy summer evenings. They also come with refrigerators to keep your food fresh until it’s time to grill up dinner.


Love to experience the outdoors but don’t want to completely be in the elements? When you visit Bellaire, try glamping in tents and Yurts outfitted with high-end mattresses, chairs and linens to make your stay a little more comfortable.

Plan time on the water during your camp-out

Muskegon County offers 16 campgrounds, with many located in state and local parks along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Others are conveniently located near the many attractions Muskegon has to offer. You’ll find relaxation on the banks of beautiful Big Blue Lake at the YMCA Camp Pendalouan Family Camp in Muskegon. Paddle clear waters in a kayak or canoe, enjoy wooded paths on horseback, or nap with the sounds of nature in the hammocks and swings. Ziplines, hikes and more round out the possibilities.


Looking for a quiet, peaceful night under the starry skies? At the Pine River Paddlesports Center in Wellston, you have the opportunity for a quiet camping experience in a clean and quiet campground, where the ‘quiet hours’ are 24/7. All sites are private, hedged around on three sides with woods, and all come with a picnic table, lantern hook, locking garbage can, and a fire pit with an adjustable grate. The sites are rustic, with a clean, central bathroom facility complete with flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and hot running water.

You’re invited to camp, relax, play, and enjoy this summer at En Gedi Campground River Resort in Leonidas. This family friendly campground offers activities for all ages. Kids will love the bounce house on Saturdays and water-lovers will appreciate the on-site livery with canoes, kayaks, and tubes.


Little Switzerland Resort and Campground is a peaceful and friendly place located just two miles north of Newaygo. The campground is nestled off of Pickerel Lake where you can enjoy 300 ft. of lake frontage with a private beach and swimming area. There is a playground, basketball court, and volleyball area to use during your stay. Fishing, sunbathing, and water sports are excellent. Public golf courses are a short drive away.


There are many beautiful spots for camping in Holland. The Holland State Park campground welcomes visitors to either wooded or beach-adjacent lots, while the Oak Grove Resort offers spots for travel trailers or brand-new camping cabins. Farther from the beach, Drew’s Country Campground or the Dutch Treat Campground offer affordable campsites with great amenities.


Mecosta County has quite a selection of public campgrounds for visitors to choose from when they visit. The Mecosta County Parks all have camping amenities to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re interested in swimming, fishing, or hunting. There are seven wonderful county parks, such as School Section Lake, Haymarsh Lake, or Merrill-Gorrell Park. 

Fisherman’s Island State Park boasts over six miles of unspoiled Lake Michigan shoreline near Charlevoix with 80 rustic campsites, 15 of which are nestled in the dune area shore.


Covert Park Beach & Campground, with one quarter mile of beach on the shore of Lake Michigan, offers day passes as well as campsites available between mid-May and mid-October.

Campgrounds with family entertainment

No matter how you like to camp, Cran-Hill Ranch in Rodney has a spot for you. Their campgrounds can accommodate anything from a tent to the largest of RVs. All of their sites have 30-amp electric and water, with an on-site dump station. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. They have four different camping areas to choose from.


Pitch a tent, pull up in an RV, or stay in a cabin at Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday Campground. Kids enjoy the Jumping Pillow, trampoline basketball, rock climbing wall, gem mining sluice, carpetball, gaga ball, craft time, movie nights, and two fishing ponds. Order pizza, nachos, or a panini from the cafe, and have it delivered to your site. Try some hand-dipped ice cream too.


The Kal-Haven Outpost is a new campground and general store located on the Kal-Haven Trail, just 4 miles from downtown South Haven. The Outpost offers three vacation homes; six spacious family cabins; four roomy couple’s cabins; twenty 70-ft., pull-through RV sites; wooded primitive sites; and a bathhouse. All lodging options are pet-friendly.


Yogi Bear’s Camp-Resort is South Haven’s family resort, located just five miles from Lake Michigan. Take advantage of outdoor fun for the whole family with resort amenities, complete with cable and Wi-Fi. The campground is located only 1/2 mile from the scenic Kal-Haven Trail. Cabins and cottages are pet friendly and offer ADA accessibility. 

Located just minutes from downtown Marquette and at the heart of the area’s vast trail network is the Rippling River Resort and Campground. Nestled along the shores of the Carp River and set on nearly 40 acres, the resort offers rustic tent sites, RV hook-ups, and even luxury cabins.


Enjoy a cabin rental on the shores of beautiful Lake Huron at Mackinac Lakefront Cabin Rentals, a family friendly resort just outside of Mackinaw City. Featuring 16 modern cabins and shaded RV sites, this quiet country setting will provide you with many hours of enjoyment. It’s located just three minutes from downtown Mackinaw City, the Mackinac Bridge, and the ferries to Mackinac Island.

RV parks

Offering over 200 full hook-ups, three pools, a recreation hall, game room, playground, firepits, and fishing pond, Poncho’s Pond RV Park in Ludington has grown to be one of the top-rated privately owned parks in Michigan. Open April-October, Poncho’s Pond RV Park has plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. 

Sunny Brook RV Resort is a 65-acre luxury RV resort located in South Haven, three miles from Lake Michigan, offering nightly, monthly, and seasonal rental. 


Enjoy free weekend events, homemade ice cream at the ice cream parlor, dinner theater, and homemade turkey dinners at Turkeyville Restaurant when you stay at Camp Turkeyville RV Resort in Marshall.

More campground and RV parks to visit in the Upper Peninsula: 

More campground and RV parks to visit in the North Region: 

More campground and RV parks to visit in the Central Region: 

More campground and RV parks to visit in the South Region: 

More campground and RV parks to visit around the state: 

Cat of the week: Tyrion

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, ,
This guy will steal your heart, guaranteed

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).


It is a bit of a convoluted journey as to how this totally adorable classic tabby made it to Dr. Jen (finally) on May 6, 2019. Evidently he was found wandering around the parking lot of the Meijer on 54th and Clyde Park, just down the road from the vet clinic, and he was picked up by a woman who then took him home on the city bus.


Somehow she contacted none other than one of our regular rescuers, who then transported him to the Humane Society of West Michigan as we were full up at Crash’s, and she has a withstanding ‘in’ with them as far as placing strays is concerned. However, he tested positive for Feline Leukemia, so she took him right back on home, contacted Dr. Jen and asked if the good doc could do his medical work-up. Dr. Jen actually ended up doing one better, offering to take him, sight unseen, into our program at Big Sid’s.


The two-year-old (born in the spring of 2017) IMMEDIATELY took Dr. Jen’s heart for his own, along with every single person he made contact with at the clinic and sanctuary alike. It really bummed us all out that such a sweetheart had the bad luck to carry the virus, but since he was an intact male when found, it wasn’t surprising—sad, but not totally unexpected. 


Once at our free-roaming, fun-loving facility Tyrion found his place easily and quickly started entertaining not only himself but any audience he could command: 

“Tyrion is a non-stop, action-loving cat. He will chase a ping pong ball up and down the hall for hours on end, but playtime is even better when another cat will wrestle with him. He has a few ‘besties’ who are usually down for some hardcore, rough-and-tumble; in fact, they can get so into it that we actually have to make them stop out of fear they will unintentionally hurt each other. He would do amazing with kids!”


“Tyrion is one of our most popular guys. He’s always up for adventures and activities— and soaks up any attention he can get from us. He does play a little too rough with the other cats at times, but we are hoping time and his calming collar help him lighten up a bit. He’s got a lot of energy and will need kids that will tire him out at the end of the day. He would do well in a home with another cat buddy, one who matches his energy level and will stand up to him, and maybe even a playful dog. His exuberance and ebullience knows NO bounds!” 


As you can imagine, we are all as pleased as punch that his personality is so over-the-top and outgoing, as this type of kitty holds a lot of appeal to high-energy families. And at his four-week follow-up appointment, he tested NEGATIVE for Feleuk—not once, but twice, on our in-house test AND through our outside lab.


However, we have learned the hard way that this first round of diagnostics is an excellent screening test, but there can be false negatives, so in cases where a prior positive cat then turns up virus-free, Dr. Jen now sends out a specialized (and, of course, more expensive test) to confirm. This type of test is far more specific and has less margin of error, so when it came back negative, it was a major cause for celebration.


This terrific tabby is not going to be with us at Crash’s long, mark our words, as he is simply too awesome to pass by!

More about Tyrion:

  • Medium
  • Tabby (Tiger-Striped)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with other cats, dogs, kids

Want to adopt Tyrion? 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.

Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!


Your health digs ginger

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Ginger is an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium and magnesium, but its most salient property is gingerol, an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Len Canter, HealthDay


Zesty ginger is more than just a great way to dress up your favorite recipes. It contains a potent immunity booster—its active compound gingerol is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compound.


Ginger is also a source of vitamin C and the minerals potassium and magnesium.


Ginger root is inexpensive and easy to find in the produce aisle of your local grocery store. Look for a piece that’s firm and smooth. It may have many nubs, but they shouldn’t be shriveled.


The skin should be a light brown and fairly smooth. Ginger keeps well for up to a few weeks in the produce bin of your fridge. Keep it wrapped in a paper towel and change the towel whenever it gets damp.


Many people peel ginger with a spoon, scraping off the skin with an edge. But a veggie peeler works too and may be faster.


When a recipe calls for minced ginger, after peeling, make horizontal slices and then cut each slice into matchsticks and cut the match sticks into tiny pieces.


For grated ginger, you could use a mini food processor or, even better, a microplane—just run one trimmed end of a piece of ginger across the metal mesh and let the ginger and its juice fall into a bowl.


Ginger is perfect for jazzing up salad dressings and marinades and for making an herbal tea.


For a simple main course, try it in this tasty vegetarian stir fry:



Ginger Stir Fry

2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 cups sliced mushrooms
2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
1 onion, peeled and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons minced ginger
2 cups cooked brown rice
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce

Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame oil, then the vegetables and the ginger. Cook three to four minutes, stirring often, until the veggies soften. Add the rice and the soy sauce and toss well. Serve immediately.

Yield: 4 serving


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Snapshots: Wyoming, Kentwood news you ought to know

3-bottom, Books, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Cities, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.

Katharine Hepburn
Grand Rapids Symphony

Kick up your heels. Better yet,
leave the heels at home.

The Grand Rapids Symphony celebrates the 25th anniversary of the D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops by recreating its inaugural Picnic Pops concert July 11 and 12. Go here for the scoop on dates, music, and ticket options.

Celebrate the Dog Days of Summer at Downtown Market

Yippee! It’s Yappy Hour!

Join fellow dog lovers at the Downtown Market for Yappy Hour, on July 10, 17, 24 and 31 from 11am-1pm, to enjoy lunch outside with pups! Go here for more info.

A woman of her words

After teaching English and Journalism, Elizabeth Meyette retired and began a full-time writing career. An Amazon best-selling author, she has published six novels, her latest being 2018’s The Last Crossing. She has also published poetry and writes a blog called Meyette’s Musings. Read about Meyette here.

Fun fact:

189,819

The number of letters in the longest English word, the name of a protein. Go here to read it for yourself because honestly, we just don’t have the time and space. Its nickname is ‘titin’. Isn’t that cute?

How disappointing. Somehow we were expecting something a bit more grandiose.


‘GOING GOING GONE’ theater production at LowellArts in late July, early August

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , ,


By Janet Teunis, LowellArts


The LowellArts Players presents GOING GOING GONE. Set in the press box of a major Los Angeles baseball stadium, this is a hilarious yet poignant new comedy from Emmy Award-winning writer (M*A*S*H*, Cheers, The Simpsons) (and 8-year host of popular radio show Dodger Talk), Ken Levine.


The performances are at LowellArts Gallery, 223 W Main St, Lowell, MI 49331 on July 26, 27, 28 (matinee), Aug. 2 and 3. Friday and Saturday shows are at 7pm, and the Sunday show is at 2pm. Tickets are $12 in advance, and $14 at the door. Advance tickets available at lowellartsmi.org or by calling 616-897-8545.


The play, presented in association with Public Domain, is a West Michigan premiere, and depicts four sports journalists who have life-changing experiences during the course of one game. The cast includes Brent Alles as Jim, Allison Kavanaugh as Shana, Chris Marsh as Dennis, and Ricardo Tavárez as Mason. In the world of baseball, the past is often more cherished than the present is the perfect subtext for this hilarious journey. The production is directed by Rob Freund.


For more information and to purchase tickets, visit lowellartsmi.org/going-going-gone.


Beware the ball pit

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, , , , ,
A lab analysis of plastic balls from play areas found bugs responsible for pink eye, urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, heart inflammation and more. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Serena Gordon, HealthDay


If the cacophony of children screaming and throwing tiny plastic balls everywhere hasn’t prompted you to forgo ball pits, a new study may just send you scurrying for the door.


The research found that ball pits were awash in microbes, some potentially quite dangerous.


The study team found 31 bacterial species and one species of yeast. Some of those bugs are responsible for pink eye, urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, heart inflammation and more.


“Be aware of this if you take your child to a physical therapy clinic, especially if the child has a compromised immune system,” said senior study author Dobrusia Bialonska, assistant professor of environmental microbiology at the University of North Georgia.


“You might consider asking for no treatment in the ball pit. We definitely showed that there are things on the balls that can potentially hurt a child who is immune-compromised,” she said.


Does that mean all kids need to steer clear of ball pits in fast food restaurants or other play spaces?


No, Bialonska said.


“We’re talking about pediatric physical therapy patients that may have some immune problems and may be more fragile. If kids are healthy, let them go and play. It may help build their immune system,” she said.


But kids should wash their hands when they jump out of the pit, especially if they’re going to eat after playing, Bialonska quickly added.


Ball pits became popular in the 1980s when they began popping up in commercial restaurant chains across the United States. But these play areas are often contaminated with visible dirt, vomit, urine and feces, researchers said. Numerous bacteria had already been identified in ball pits, but researchers wanted to learn how those used for physical therapy for children might compare.


The study team collected samples from six ball pits in Georgia physical therapy clinics. They randomly selected nine to 15 balls from each location, then swabbed the whole surface of each ball to find any microbes.


There were microorganisms on all of the balls, though some had very few. The researchers said it’s not unusual or concerning to see microbes anywhere humans are present. There should be concern when there are a lot of microbes, however.


Researchers noted a significant variation in the extent of microbial contamination from clinic to clinic. That suggests a need to develop guidelines for cleaning the balls and the pit area when they are used for physical therapy in potentially vulnerable kids, researchers said.


Bialonska said there are no standards or directions for cleaning these areas. She said someone had used a commercial washing machine to clean the balls. Others have tried using ultraviolet light to disinfect the balls.


Dr. Maryann Buetti-Sgouros, chair of pediatrics at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, N.Y., was not involved with the research, but reviewed the study.


“Common sense has to dictate how you address risks as a parent,” she said. “If there’s somewhere germy, what will you do to decrease the risk? A little bit of germs isn’t awful. Carry antibiotic wipes.”


Another expert agreed.


“Many of the microbes isolated are part of our normal flora,” said Dr. Salman Khan, an infectious disease physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. “However, some of these have the potential to cause disease in patients with immunocompromising conditions and open wounds.”


Buetti-Sgouros said she doesn’t think ball pits are inherently worse than other places where kids play, but the balls cannot be sterilized between uses and are going to get covered in bacteria.


If you’re taking a child for physical therapy where there is a ball pit, she suggested asking how the balls are sterilized. “In this study, one of the clinics didn’t have as much bacteria. What were they doing differently?” she said.


Buetti-Sgouros also pointed out that injuries are a concern at ball pits and other kid play areas, such as those with multiple indoor trampolines.


“Again, let common sense dictate. But, I’d rather see kids outside where there’s ventilation and air,” she said.


The study was recently published in the American Journal of Infection Control.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Marking 25: Grand Rapids Symphony celebrates the silver anniversary of the D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment
Grand Rapids Symphony’s John Varineau and Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk discuss the history of the D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Not many can say they have attended every single D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops concerts, but Grand Rapids Symphony Associate Conductor John Varineau can.

In the past 24 years, Varineau has not always conducted, sometimes he was helping behind the scenes, making sure the canons go off at just the right moment between at the end of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.

“Wait, who is going to fire the canons this year?” Varineau stated in a recent “Locally Entertaining” podcast. “I’m going to be conducting this year. We’re going to have to find someone.”

Rest assure that there will be someone to fire the canons — and the fireworks — as the Grand Rapids Symphony celebrates the 25th anniversary of the D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops by recreating its inaugural Picnic Pops concert July 11 and 12.

Grand Rapids Symphony Associate Conductor John Varineau will lead the opening D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops July 11 and 12. (Supplied)

According to Grand Rapids Symphony Senior Manager of Communications and Media Relations Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk, the Classical Fireworks concerts are a tradition to Picnic Pops, performed every year.

This year Varineau will lead the orchestra in such patriotic melodies as John Williams’ Liberty Fanfare, John Phillip Sousa’s The Stars and Stripes Forever, and an Armed Forces Salute along with music by Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein. Local pianist Rich Ridenour performs Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue with the Grand Rapids Symphony.

The 25th annual summer season continues in July and August with three more shows over three weeks beginning with Here Comes the Sun: A Tribute to the Beatles at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 18-19, followed by Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown and More at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 25-26.

Capping off the D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops, for one-night only, is the special event Nashville: The Songwriters, Their Stories. The Symphony. Starring the Music City Hit-Makers at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 2.


Gates at Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Rd. NE, open at 5:45 p.m. each night for picnicking and pre-concert entertainment, including free, kid-friendly activities such as face painting, crafts, and a musical instrument petting zoo.

VIP Parking Passes for the D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops are available for $12. Go online to GRSymphony.org/vip for details. 

Pre-concert activités include the Musical Instrument Petting Zoo where children can get up close to the instruments. (Supplied)

Ticket Options and Prices

3-Concert Series and Flexpass Packages

Save up to 30 percent off single-ticket prices with a 3-Concert Series subscription for any seat or save up to 15% off single-ticket lawn seats with a 6-ticket Flexpass.

The 3-Concert Series subscription is good for any seats to Classical Fireworks: Salute to America; Here Comes the Sun: A Tribute to the Beatles; and Dancing in the Streets: The Music of Motown. Subscriptions for lawn seats are $42 for adults or $15 for children ages 2-18. Children younger than age 2 are admitted for free. Subscriptions for general admission chair seating are $75. Tickets for an individual reserved table seat are $144 or $1,152 to reserve an entire table for eight.

The Flexpass 6-Pack offers six lawn tickets that can be used in any combination, on any concert night, for Classical Fireworks: Salute to America; Here Comes the Sun: A Tribute to the Beatles; and Dancing in the Streets: The Music of Motown. Flexpasses are $102 for adults. Flexpasses cannot be used for the special event in August.

There is an array of seating options available from table seating to lawn seating. (Supplied)

Individual Concert Tickets

All single tickets for all concerts are $5 more on the day of the show.

Lawn tickets for all concerts are $20 for adults ($25 day of show) or $5 for ages 2-18 ($10 day of show).

Other individual tickets are $30 for reserved chairs ($35 the day of the show), $51 for individual table seats ($56 the day of the show), and $408 for a full table of eight ($448 day of show).

MySymphony360 members can attend for $15 ($20 day of show). Active duty, reserve and National Guard members of the U.S. Military may purchase up to two tickets for $15 each ($20 day of show). Children younger than age 2 are admitted for free.

Members of the community receiving financial assistance from the State of Michigan or U.S. Military households can receive up to four free tickets through the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Symphony Scorecard. 

How to Get Tickets

The 3-Concert Series, Flexpass, and individual table and chair tickets can be purchased through the GRS box office by calling 616-454-9451 ext. 4 weekdays; or in person at 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100; or online at GRSymphony.org.

Tickets also are available at the gate at the night of the concert for an additional $5. Group discounts are available for groups of 10 or more people by calling 616-454-9451.