During the week of Nov. 12, West Michigan Works! service centers will honor those who served in the military by offering job search services and events with a focus on veterans.
“We serve veterans every day, but we want to set aside this special time to highlight their service and their specific career needs,” said Brittany Lenertz, West Michigan Works! talent solutions director. “From offering coffee and displaying the flags of the Armed Forces in our centers to providing access to veteran-friendly resources, we want to show our gratitude to the men and women who served our country.”
Workshops
The week’s schedule of free workshops will include information to address veterans’ job search needs. For example, the resume workshop will help veterans convey their military experience with civilian language that hiring managers can easily understand.
“So many of the skills learned during military service transfer to civilian life—it’s all in the language used when you talk or write about them,” said Karen Riggs, a talent development instructor with West Michigan Works!
Community Resources
Several of the service centers will hold resource fairs that will highlight community resources for veterans. This may include anything from entrepreneurship workshops through the Small Business Development Center to assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services.
Hiring Events
Veteran-friendly employers will be in the service centers as either an Employer of the Day or a part of a larger multi-employer hiring event. As always, veterans and their spouses receive early access to Michigan Works! hiring events.
Veterans can participate in any of these activities by visiting a West Michigan Works! service center Nov. 13-16 (the service centers will be closed on Monday, Nov. 12). Dates and locations of the Veterans Week hiring events as well as service center locations can be found on the West Michigan Works! website at westmiworks.org/vetweek.
Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.
As the days draw shorter and temperatures decrease, we know that the holiday season is upon us. Not only do we usually indulge ourselves during this time, but we also become less physically active.
It is not surprising that the average American gains about a pound this time of year.
There are numerous reasons for this weight gain, especially the overall busyness we tend to have, with parties and preparing for them. Outside of the usual overindulging we go through with at the table, these busy schedules often cause us to reach for more convenient options that are not necessarily the most nutrient-dense.
What are some approaches we can use year round, but especially at this time of year to minimize or prevent weight gain?
Methods to Utilize When Eating This Holiday Season
There are numerous techniques that can be employed to help us enjoy eating during the holiday season, while not going overboard by eating too much. One of these options is to utilize mindful eating practices, as described in previous articles. Mindful eating allows you to checking in with yourselves to see if you are actually hungry, gives you time to appraise and admire your meal, encourages slowing down your eating, lets you savor and taste every bite and helps you stop when you are full.
Another method is to substitute foods with lower calorie options. This could include using sugar substitutes during baking to maintain the sweet taste we enjoy in our desserts, but reducing the number of calories we consume. Other options could be using low fat or fat-free substitutes. One could also load up on more nutrient-dense foods such as fruits and vegetables, but also include some dessert. Other helpful hints for eating during the holiday season can be found here.
Physical Activity During the Holidays
Although the holiday season is upon us, this is not a reason to give up on your current physical activity habits. The best recommendation is to maintain your current physical activity schedule, whether that is going to the gym or outside for a run. However, the busyness of this time of year, plus changes in the weather, are not necessarily conducive to performing physical activity. There are approaches to this dilemma. For example, if you currently run outdoors, you may have to make some modifications such as running on an indoor track, or taking up cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.
To prevent extra weight gain, the simplest method is to burn, or expend, more calories. This could be as simple as adding an extra workout day, or encourage some family bonding time and going for walks. Remember, although you may miss a workout or two, it is not the end of the world nor the most important part of the holiday season.
This time of year, we usually consume more foods, especially the sweet ones, and perform less physical activity, however, there are numerous methods we can employ to help us still enjoy the holidays, without gaining that extra pound of body weight. This could be changing the way we eat, or performing extra physical activity. Regardless, we should also utilize these methods throughout the year.
By Mary Davis, Grand Rapids Public Library, Ottawa Hills Branch
Kate DiCamillo became one of my favorite authors for children after publishing her first novel, Because of Winn-Dixie. She writes in a soothing, almost comforting voice, and she never talks down to her intended audience. She often blends realism with a sort of fantastical or magical twist. In her newest, The Magician’s Elephant, she casts another spell. She tells the story of Peter Augustus Duchene. Peter, a young boy in the care of a former soldier, believes that he will grow into a soldier as well.
One day the old soldier gives him money to buy bread and fish. Instead, a fortune teller’s tent catches Peter’s eye. She reveals to him that his sister, believed to be dead, lives and the elephant will lead him to her. This seems unbelievable until a visiting magician mysteriously and mistakenly conjures up an elephant.
DiCamillo weaves beautifully together the story of the elephant and how she leads Peter to his sister, a new future, and an interesting cast of characters. Yoko Tanka’s illustrations help define the time and place and bring depth to the storytelling. The Magician’s Elephant would make a lovely read-aloud to most elementary classrooms or just to share with any child in one’s life.
Researchers recommend exercising about 150 minutes each week, including some strength-training exercises. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
By Kim Delafuente, Spectrum Health Beat
New studies continue to add credence to the critical link between good brain health and regular exercise.
A recent study by researchers in Texas, for instance, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, found an association between higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness and better “fiber integrity” in the brain’s white matter.
This correlated to better “executive function performance” in patients with mild cognitive impairment, according to the study.
These types of contemporary findings abound, with researchers perpetually seeking to understand the connections between brain health and physical activity.
What we do know is that physical activity is proven to reduce stress, improve mood, increase self-confidence, improve memory, reduce symptoms of depression and reduce the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease by up to 50 percent.
But what’s really going on under the hood? Let’s take a look at some known areas.
Hippo power
The area of the brain responsible for memory formation, the hippocampus, shrinks as a normal process of aging. In people who are physically active, however, the hippocampus can actually increase. This tells us exercise aids in the growth of brain cells in certain areas of the brain.
Neural nitrogen
Physical activity increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which acts as something of a brain fertilizer. It is essential to learning and memory. The increase here not only helps with brain cell interconnectivity, it also aids in the growth of new brain cells.
Anti-depressant
In some cases, exercise can generate the same effect as an anti-depressant in those with mild depression. Research shows that active people tend to be less depressed, which means that exercise may benefit those who suffer from depression.
Brain-building
Physically active children may reap the benefits in a number of areas, including better performance on tests, fewer behavioral problems and improved retention of information.
Stress, anxiety reliever
Exercise can help the body respond better to anxiety disorders. A study by researchers in Chicago also found modest evidence to support the notion that “regular exercise protects against the negative emotional consequences of stress.”
Exactly how much physical activity is needed to reap brain benefits?
As it applies to healthy adults, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, as well as some muscle-strengthening activities two days a week.
The activity should be hard enough to increase your breathing and heart rate.
One recent study found that people who exercised more than an hour each day had healthier brain characteristics compared to people who exercised less.
But you don’t have to dive in headlong. If you are currently inactive, start with just a 5- or 10-minute walk each day. Something is always better than nothing. A small amount of exercise can be enough to put you in a better mood and increase your energy.
But keep in mind that the level of fitness and endurance may matter in the long run. A higher endurance level is related to better cognitive abilities.
The more exercise you do, the greater the benefits!
What started as a request from a City of Wyoming Department of Public Safety officer to visit the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans led to the department hosting its 12th annual donation drive for the Home.
The members of the department’s Honor Guard, which many residents may have seen in parades or special events such as Veterans Day and Memorial Day, work to reflect on why many of the officers join a police force, choosing to serve their community. The Honor Guard visits various places, working with veterans and other groups.
“One of the officers in the Honor Guard had requested we visit the Veterans Home because his father was there,” said Officer Pam Keen. Once there, the officers saw a need.
“It was a reminder that this was a nursing home and that many of these guys were in need of things such as shampoo or body wash or diabetic socks. Basically items that mean the difference of just surviving to making life comfortable.”
Items sought for donation include $25 gift cards (local fast food restaurants, Meijer, Wal-Mart, Dollar Tree, Gordon Food Marketplace, etc.), candy bars, pens, batteries, stamps, grooming, hygiene items and clothing (new or gently used.)
So after that 2007 visit, the Honor Guard decided to host a donation drive. In the past couple of years, the drive has become a citywide event, however; most of the donations come from city staff, Keen said.
“It is more to raise awareness of the Home,” Keen said. “We saw a need and we are trying to help fill it. We hope others will see it and help too.”
Donations will be collected through the month of November and can be dropped off at the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW.
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 early September 2018, Caledonia resident Amanda T. came across this lovely young lady (born in early October of 2017) roaming around her property. She and her husband considered giving her a permanent home as she was exceptionally friendly and affectionate but weren’t quite sure what their resident cat would think. So they took Asha into their vet to get her checked out a few weeks later and discovered, much to their dismay, that she tested positive for Feline Leukemia. Since the virus is transmitted through the sharing of bodily fluids like saliva, they didn’t want to risk their kitty contracting it.
After contacting Dr. Jen and explaining the situation, the good doctor offered to take the darling girl they named Asha into our program at Big Sid’s, our sanctuary for kitties with FELV and FIV. Her name means ‘hope’, which we thought was very appropriate.
After spaying her (Amanda had gotten her set with deworming and vaccines prior to her arrival), Dr. Jen sent adorable little Asha on down to meet the rest of her roommates, and after a few days of rest and recovery, she dove right into the thick of things. She adores being smack dab in the middle of the action as she is young, vibrant and oh-so curious.
Asha finds bird watching a fantastic way to pass the time, and she is absolutely thrilled to let you rub her belly for hours on end. Initially, this little kitty was too busy to be held for very long, but over time she has discovered just how warm and tingly snuggling makes her feel. She gets along famously well with all of the other residents and is extremely playful, so a household with a few kids would really tickle her fancy!
Since Asha is so very fond of attention, she would be the perfect companion for someone who is home a lot and would be more than happy to offer up a lap for her to lounge on. She really is one of our sweetest girls—and considering she IS a calico that says a LOT! It’s a shame that she tested positive for the virus, though on her retest one month after her arrival she was only a faint positive, and since some cats with strong immune systems can clear the virus and not harbor the infection, Dr. Jen will be checking her again in mid-November. Fingers crossed!
Asha is truly an amazing cat and we are so thankful we were in a position to help out when it was most needed. There are vaccines that can be given to non-infected cats to help decrease the risk of transmission, so adoption is a very viable option in this case. It would be a shame to not let our cutie pie know the wonders or comfort of a cozy, loving home of her own. Don’t get me wrong, our place is AWESOME, but it is meant to be a stepping stone for bigger and better things. And what could be better than waking up to this fabulous feline face every single morning, or drifting off peacefully each night with her dainty paw touching your hand as you gently stroke her tummy fur, eliciting the purest purrs of contentment than you have ever heard? NOTHING is going to beat that.
More about Asha:
Medium
Calico
Adult
Female
House-trained
Vaccinations up to date
Spayed
Not declawed
FELV+
Good in a home with other cats, children
Want to adopt Asha? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.
Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!
Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.
As a youth in West Africa, Benjamin Kofi Amponsah always knew he wanted to study in the United States. What he couldn’t have envisioned was falling in love with and marrying an American, then settling into her hometown, the father of two Ghanaian-American children. Along the way, he earned two college degrees and became an international liaison between his adopted city and the Ga District of his native Ghana. Benjamin talks with Alan of his love for two cultures and the patience needed to straddle both.
Deck the halls this holiday season by taking a tour through the Hackley and Hume Historic Site during their kick-off event on Saturday, Nov. 24th. From 4-8pm, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the beautifully decorated houses and enjoy a variety of other holiday-themed activities.
Aside from the holiday tour, visitors can participate in ornament decorating while enjoying cookies and hot chocolate. Though this is the only night with festivities in the courtyard, there will be additional dates for walk-through tours where individuals can experience the houses adorned with holiday decorations throughout.
Program Manager, Erin Schmitz, shares her excitement for the event saying, “It’s such a joy to decorate and get the Houses ready for the holidays. Our community loves this event and it really gets everyone excited for the Christmas season!”
The additional holiday tour date schedule is as follows:
Sunday, Nov. 25 from 1-4pm
Saturday, Dec. 8 from 4-8pm
Saturday, Dec. 15 from 4-8pm
Thursday, Dec. 27 from 4-8pm
Friday, Dec. 28 from 1-4pm
Admission to the Holiday Tours Kick-off is $10 for adults, $8 for Seniors 65 and older, and $5 for kids ages 2-12. No registration is required for this event. The Hackley and Hume Historic Site is located at 484 W. Webster Ave. Muskegon, MI 49441.
WKTV (that stands for Wyoming-Kentwood Television) launched a digital cinema program in 2012, providing film production gear and facilities at no cost to filmmakers whose only objective is to tell a story.
Kyle Misak is exhausted. It’s close to 5am, and he is at the end of an 18-hour day.
Yes, that’s 18 hours. Most people probably have been there at least once in their lives, but for the 23-year-old Michigan filmmaker, days like this are routine when he’s directing a movie.
Misak may have the stamina to endure such a grueling time commitment, but there’s one underlying force that pushes him to lengths like this; he has a vision to tell a story. Being a filmmaker means handling actors, crew, equipment, schedules, the rain and cold, the occasional equipment failure, missed flights, broken down cars, lunch, and whatever else that could possibly happen. If you are ever lucky enough to work on a film for any length of time, you come away convinced that Murphy is the god of filmmakers.
But Misak is having none of it. He and his crew, with persistence and dogged determination, are more than likely to beat Murphy at his own game.
And shortly after I wrote the above, I took a text message from one of Misak’s crew members saying the footage they shot on one of the days may have been damaged — digitally lost in the never-never land of ones and zeros; requiring that a full day’s work be redone.
Misak has always been tinkering with storytelling and filmmaking, but his ability to get the stories in his head to the screen took a big leap when he discovered a community media center in Wyoming, Michigan.
But we digress. Misak pushes through everything like a Sherman tank with one eye on the goal that makes it all worthwhile and the other on avoiding the next difficulty. The goal is to bring to life the story bouncing around inside his head. Just get the story told in a convincing manner and along the way entertain the audience. It’s all a filmmaker wants to achieve.
Misak has always been tinkering with storytelling and filmmaking, but his ability to get the stories in his head to the screen took a big leap when he discovered a community media center in Wyoming, Michigan. WKTV (that stands for Wyoming-Kentwood Television) launched a digital cinema program in 2012, providing film production gear and facilities at no cost to filmmakers whose only objective is to tell a story.
“We were amazed that all of this stuff existed for us to use,” Misak said. “So often, you have to raise thousands of dollars to afford rentals, which many of us obviously can’t do, so many films probably don’t even get started. WKTV changed all that. I know it changed everything for me.”
But there has to be a catch, right?
There should be, but WKTV as a community media center exists to provide media creation equipment to users at no charge. If, as the saying goes, the best things in life are free, then maybe the tools that inspire a young filmmaker to push himself to his creative limits and along the way develop his storytelling skills falls into the category of “best things”. After talking with Misak, you learn that discovering places like WKTV is, for filmmakers, like discovering gold in the ground. It’s there and it’s yours, if you can go through the work of learning the equipment and crafting a story.
But as is often the case with stories like this, the danger is that it sounds easier than it really is. William Goldman, a veteran Hollywood writer from the sixties and seventies put it this way: “Filmmaking is work. Not like working in an office is work, but filmmaking is work like salt mining is work.”
There’s a good chance filmmakers like Misak, or any filmmaker for that matter, would agree.
If every diehard filmmaker has horror stories about equipment failures, permits denied at the last minute, or star actors who missed their flights, just as many are reminded what makes it all worth it.
“There’s a special feeling, a truly special feeling,” said Kevin Davis, a 31-year filmmaker in Wyoming who has been using WKTV’s cinema equipment for two years. “It comes over you in the editing room when you realize that it’s working; the scene is working.
Kyle Misak out in the field
“There’s the first pass, and it doesn’t work and you get that sick feeling. Then the real magic of editing gets to work and slowly the scene is cut, trimmed, shots moved around, and eventually, (but not always) out comes the scene that originally played in your mind. It’s a great feeling. It makes the bags under your eyes worth it,” he said with a wink.
Whether it’s Davis or Misak, filmmakers from all backgrounds are coming to WKTV and tapping a resource that’s never been available in West Michigan before: equipment. Nate Diedrich, one of the production coordinators for the cinema program at WKTV, was more direct: “Before we were here, it was only the rental houses. Some were here, others in Detroit and you had to have money, and unless it’s a corporate production, without money, the film didn’t get made.”
It’s possible that given WKTV’s 44-plus years in media creation, it is the perfect place for this next definition of community media.
But there’s a side benefit as well. Just as WKTV has focused these 44 years on making people more media-savvy, the digital cinema program has the distinct possibility of making filmmakers more story-savvy.
“Storytelling is a talent,” Davis said, “and like all talent, it’s a Carnegie Hall thing. How do you get there? Practice, and the talent will come through.”
Diedrich couldn’t agree more. “We’ve seen filmmakers graduate from the most basic ability to really being able to choreograph actors and camera and editing into poignant moments and crafting a story. We really believe that media can build community and storytelling is a powerful means to do that.”
WKTV believes that keeping the cost low encourages filmmakers to get started. However, while the fees may be low, WKTV insists that any storyteller seeking film production gear become “certified” on using that gear. Certification usually lasts no more than three hours depending on the type of equipment.
Now in its fifth year, WKTV’s Digital Cinema program can be reached by visiting the website at wktv.org or calling 616-261-5700.
Many West Michigan businesses and organizations have a deep history in the area. See what you can learn about your favorite brewery, attraction, hotel, and more with this insightful guide!
Historic Spots in Northern West Michigan
Castle Farms in Charlevoix is celebrating 100 years this year! Built in 1918 as a model farm for the Sears & Roebuck Company, it has housed cows, artists, rock concerts, and now hosts historical tours and events. The historical tours offer guests a glimpse into the past through a video narrated by the owner, as well as a map of the grounds.
Courtesy Mission Point Lighthouse
Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire is not only rich in unique natural features, but is also rich in preservation history in northern Michigan, paving the way for many other conservation organizations to come. The organization was created in 1969, with a small group of concerned residents who saw the threat of wetlands development. From that point, this grassroots effort skyrocketed into meaningful collaborations between foundations, other conservation organizations, and the county government, something that has become a standard since that time.
Legs Inn in Cross Village is a third-generation owned inn founded by Stanley Smolak, a Polish immigrant. After working in automobile factories in both Detroit and Chicago, Smolak sought out to settle in an area that reminded him of his native land. In the late 1920s, Stanley Smolak began building this extraordinary complex. Two generations later, Legs Inn continues to be a widely recognized historical destination.
Mission Point Lighthouse has been a Traverse City and Old Mission Peninsula icon for decades. While it no longer guides mariners through West Grand Traverse Bay as it did from 1870 until it was decommissioned in 1933, Mission Point Lighthouse now offers visitors a peek into what life was like around the turn of the century for lighthouse keepers.
Historic Spots in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
The Adventure Mining Company in Greenland was formed in 1850 and operated as a mine on and off through 1920. Beginning in the 1970s, tours were offered as the mine changed owners over the next 30 years. Its most recent purchased was in 2004, and the mines reopened in 2005, offering a variety of tours seasonally. Their annual bike race, Miner’s Revenge, began in 2009 and takes riders within the mines and above ground.
From its beginning over 150 years ago as a waterfront beach house to the family-restored Historic Hotel of America it is today, the Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island has opened its doors to over a million tourists from around the world. With its handsome Victorian structure and family owned intimacy, Mackinac Island’s oldest hotel is a tradition not to be missed.
Whether you have a tour guide or you’re doing it yourself, tours are a great way to learn. Tours are expertly crafted to showcase exactly what you need to know. These organizations and events have already done all the heavy work, so all you need to do is take part and learn!
Courtesy W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary
Visit the W.K. Kellogg Manor House in Hickory Corners and W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary in Augusta this fall to step into their history of conservation, philanthropy, and nature. Schedule a group tour of the Bird Sanctuary or take a self-guided Historical Walking Tour. At the Manor House, enjoy a self-guided or docent-guided tour of W.K. Kellogg’s magnificent summer home and estate. Go back in time as you walk through the threshold of the beautifully restored Manor House, constructed in 1926.
The Michilimackinac Historical Society focuses on the Michilimackinac region, which is the area around the Straits of Mackinac. The historical society operates the Fort de Buade Museum, which houses a collection of over 3,500 artifacts that tell the story of the area.
The Marshall Candlelight Walk is a guided walking tour of five historic houses decorated for the holiday season on December 8th and 9th. Participants travel in groups of 25 and visit each of the homes on the tour. This popular event will fill up fast, so make sure you purchase your tickets early!
Visit Amway’s world headquarters Ada to learn about a global company that started in the area over 50 years ago. The welcome center has more than 24 interactive exhibits and 160 videos to tell the story of Amway in an informative and exciting way. From the early beginnings of co-founders Rich DeVos and Jay Van Andel to the celebration of their 50th anniversary, experience the history of Amway with a visit to the welcome center.
Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only 36.9 percent of those suffering receive treatment. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
By Maura Hohman, HealthDay
A little bit of stress can motivate you, but too much might cause an anxiety disorder that can prevent you from living your life to the fullest.
If you feel anxious on a daily basis, try making changes to your lifestyle to manage anxiety on your own.
Exercise regularly to release the body’s endorphins, natural feel-good chemicals. Set a goal of 30 minutes at least five days of the week.
Be sure to get enough sleep, typically between 7 and 8 hours every night.
During waking hours, take short breaks from whatever stresses you out. Meditation and listening to music are great ways to clear your head.
Eat healthy and don’t skip meals.
Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen anxiety and trigger panic attacks.
If adjustments to your routine don’t lessen your anxiety, talk to your doctor, especially if anxiety or depression run in your family. You could have an anxiety disorder.
Keep a symptom diary and be alert for the warning signs of an anxiety disorder.
Possible anxiety disorder symptoms include:
Constant worry.
Avoiding social situations.
Panic attacks.
Nightmares.
If you’re diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, stay positive. There are many treatments available, such as cognitive behavioral therapy to help you change your thought patterns. Also, there are other types of therapy, medication, and simple adjustments to your daily routine.
Most important is finding a therapist you’re comfortable working with and who’s experienced in treating anxiety disorders.
By April Johnson, Women’s Health Outreach Specialist AmeriCorps Member at Heart of the City–West
Nearly 40,000 women die each year from breast cancer, and it can’t be stressed enough that mammograms can help save lives. Health care experts say the best way to survive cancer is to find it early, when it is most easily treated. Knowing the basic facts about mammograms could save your life or the life of someone you love.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray picture of the breast.
Why should I have a mammogram?
Regular mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early. They can find breast lumps that are too small for a woman or her doctor to feel.
When should I start having mammograms?
Annual mammograms are recommended starting at age 40, along with a breast exam by your health care provider. Women in their 20s and 30s should have a breast exam by their doctor about every three years.
Who gets breast cancer?
All women can get breast cancer, even those who have no family history of the disease. The two most important risk factors are being a woman and growing older. The risk increases as women get older.
Are mammograms painful?
Although everyone’s pain tolerance is different, the compression involved in a mammogram is usually described as temporary discomfort. Your breast might be more sensitive just before or during your period, so you might want to avoid scheduling your mammogram during those times.
How can I be vigilant?
Women should know how their breast normally look and feel. Any changes, such as a lump, thickening, liquid leaking from the nipple, or changes to the nipple should be reported to their health care provider.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, composer of symphonies, operas and concertos, was one of the most gifted musicians in the history of Western classical music. In the 35 years of his life, Mozart gave the world over 600 masterworks. Mozart’s music is not beloved just for its sheer quantity, but also for its unparalleled quality.
Music Director Marcelo Lehninger will lead the Grand Rapids Symphony in a performance of one of Mozart’s masterpieces, the Great Mass in C minor, along with Franz Schubert’s “Unfinished” Symphony No. 8, and Charles Ives’ The Unanswered Question, at 8pm Friday and Saturday, Nov. 16 and 17 in DeVos Performance Hall.
Joining the Symphony for the Richard and Helen DeVos Classicalseries concert is the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus, directed by Pearl Shangkuan, plus soprano Martha Guth, mezzo-soprano Susan Platts, tenor Jonathan Matthew Myers, and bass-baritone Dashon Burton as guest soloists. Guest Artist sponsor is the Edith I. Blodgett Guest Artist Fund.
Pope Francis, head of the worldwide Roman Catholic Church, in 2013 in the first major, wide-ranging interview of his papacy, declares his admiration for the music of Mozart, especially his Great Mass in C minor.
“Among musicians, I love Mozart, of course,” he said. “The Et incarnates est from his Mass in C minor is matchless; it lifts you to God!”
In his great modern-day biography of Mozart, Maynard Solomon says that “occasionally . . . Mozart composed a work in a spirit of inquiry, as an affirmation of his beliefs, or as a gift of love or friendship. The several accounts of its origin indicate that the Mass in C Minor arose from a fusion of all three of these motivations.”
Rather than for any financial incentive, Mozart began composing his Mass in C minor in his early 20s for a reason that was rather unusual for the composer — to fulfill a vow he had made to his wife, Constanze.
Albert Einstein once said that Mozart’s music “is of such purity and beauty that one feels he merely found it — that it has always existed as part of the inner beauty of the universe waiting to be revealed.”
Mozart’s Great Mass, however, is only partially revealed.
When the time came to premiere it, the work was incomplete. Mozart had to use movements from his earlier compositions to fill the missing pieces. Much to the frustration of musicians, audiences and scholars, Mozart never completed the Mass.
Despite its absent parts, the Mass in C minor contains some of Mozart’s most astounding work. The soprano aria ‘Et incarnates est’ is especially difficult and was written specifically for the voice of Mozart’s wife, Constanze, who performed the aria at the Mass’s premiere.
Joining the Grand Rapids Symphony to sing this famous aria is soprano Martha Guth. Guth has performed distinctive roles in productions across the globe such as Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and Don Giovanni at Opera Lyra Ottawa, and The Magic Flute and Il Seraglio in Göggingen, Germany.
Also joining the Grand Rapids Symphony are the exceptional voices of Susan Platts, John Matthew Myers and Dashon Burton, sponsored by Edith I. Blodgett Guest Artist Fund.
Both Platts and Myers have performed with the Grand Rapids Symphony previously in Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in May 2018. Susan Platts also appeared with the Symphony in April 2012 for Mahler’s Symphony No. 8 “Symphony of a Thousand”.
The Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus, an ensemble of some 140 singers led by director Pearl Shangkuan and sponsored by Mary Tuuk, will help bring to life this classical masterpiece. Organized in 1962 with the guidance and support of Mary Ann Keeler, the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus attracts singers, ages 18 to 80, from all walks of life across West Michigan.
Great Mass in C minor
Last year, the chorus-in-residence traveled with the orchestra to New York City in April to sing Heitor Villa-Lobos’ Chôros No. 10, It Tears Your Heart in Carnegie Hall.
The chorus will join the Grand Rapids Symphony again in December for the Wolverine Worldwide Holiday Pops.
Preceding the Great Mass in the program are two pieces that complete the “unfinished” theme: Ives’ The Unanswered Question and Schubert’s Symphony No. 8.
Franz Schubert, like Mozart, wrote a lot of music in his lifetime. By the time he was 18, Schubert had composed two symphonies, two masses, five operas, and numerous piano and chamber pieces.
It comes as no surprise that locked away in a chest was two movements of what was meant to be a complete four-movement symphony. Now known as Schubert’s “Unfinished” Symphony, the work is one of his most famous compositions.
Ives wrote The Unanswered Question while in his 20s. Though the work itself is complete, Ives used his music to contemplate the mysteries of life, the questions that cannot be answered.
Though Mozart and Schubert never completed their masterpieces, and Ives’ questions will remain unanswered, the elegance and beauty of their music will continue to captivate audiences for ages to come.
Inside the Music, a free, pre-concert, multi-media presentation sponsored by BDO USA, will be held before each performance at 7pm in the DeVos Place Recital Hall
Tickets for the Richard and Helen DeVos Classicalseries start at $18 and are available at the Grand Rapids Symphony box office, weekdays 9am-5pm at 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, (located across the street from Calder Plaza). Call (616) 454-9451 x 4 to order by phone. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum).
Tickets are available at the DeVos Place ticket office, weekdays 10am-6pm or on the day of the concert beginning two hours before the performance. Tickets also may be purchased online at GRSymphony.org.
Special Offers
Full-time students of any age can purchase tickets for $5 on the night of the concert by enrolling in the GRS Student Tickets program, sponsored by Calvin College. Discounts are available to members of MySymphony360, the Grand Rapids Symphony’s organization for young professionals ages 21-35.
Students age 7-18 also are able to attend for free when accompanied by an adult. Free for Kids tickets must be purchased in advance at the GRS Ticket office. Up to two free tickets are available with the purchase of a regular-price adult ticket. Go online for more details.
Symphony Scorecard provides up to four free tickets for members of the community receiving financial assistance from the State of Michigan and for members of the U.S. Armed Forces, whether on active or reserve duty or serving in the National Guard. Go online for information to sign up with a Symphony Scorecard Partner Agency.
By Lisa Boss, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch
Fascinating! Someone has finally explained why cats act the way they do. And just in time too, since the stork delivered two kittens to us recently. The library has an excellent extensive collection of cat care books, and delightful cat memoir books like those by James Herriot, but I went straight to Temple Grandin’s works on the neurophysiology of animal behavior.
A cat is just a really different animal than, say, a dog. Their brain organization, the “domestication” path, the communication modes — this was all news to me.
Grandin’s works are all wonderfully readable for the non-scientist, from her autobiographical memoirs, Emergence, Labeled Autistic, and Thinking in Pictures : and Other Reports from My Life with Autism to her works on animal behavior, Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior, and her latest one: Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals.
We even have the award winning movie, Temple Grandin, starring Clare Danes.
West Michigan and the places you visit while you’re here have a storied history. While you’re in the area, visit some of the local museums or historical centers to learn about where you’re spending time. Also make sure to visit historic sites, from the oldest brewery in Michigan to ghost towns in the Upper Peninsula. You and your family will love learning together during your time here in West Michigan.
Find History Here!
Many West Michigan businesses and organizations have a deep history in the area. See what you can learn about your favorite brewery, attraction, hotel, and more with this insightful guide!
Historic Spots in Southern West Michigan
The National House Inn Bed & Breakfast on Marshall’s picturesque Fountain Circle is the oldest operating hotel in the state of Michigan. The inn was built in 1835 by Colonel Andrew Mann, who used lumber from the Ketchum sawmill and bricks that were molded and fired on-site to construct what has endured as the oldest brick building in Calhoun County. Today, the current owners continuously upgrade and renovate this nationally recognized bed and breakfast inn.
National House Inn Bed and Breakfast
Schuler’s Restaurant in Marshall was founded in 1909 and is currently in its fourth generation. Schuler’s attributes its longevity to the foresight of its founder and the succeeding family members who have used their entrepreneurial skills to build a 100-year tradition of hospitality and fine dining. In a challenging economy and changing marketplace, the iconic restaurant continues to thrive while evolving with the times.
Founded in 1977, the Air Zoo in Portage has a rich history of honoring and celebrating air and space flight. It opened to the public on Nov. 18th, 1979, but planning for the Air Zoo began much earlier. In the late 1940s, Pete and Suzanne Parish, co-founders of the Air Zoo, purchased several aircrafts, and after years of collecting and expanding, the Air Zoo opened a new facility unlike any other in the world. Today, the Air Zoo features new rides, exhibits, and artifacts, while still continuing the Parish’s mission to bring these aircrafts to visitors from around the world.
The Barn Theatre in Augusta is the oldest resident summer stock theater in Michigan. Founded as the Village Players in Richland in 1946 by Jack and Betty Ebert Ragotzy, The Barn Theatre, Inc. was incorporated in 1949 when the Ragotzys began renting the converted barn in Augusta, which they later purchased in 1954. For 50 years, Jack worked alongside Betty, an actress herself, as they ran the Barn Theatre. Today, it stands as the only equity summer stock theatre in the state, drawing nearly 50,000 patrons annually during its 16-week season.
Courtesy Capri Drive-In Theatre
As the oldest brewery in Michigan, Bell’s Brewery takes pride in being a part of the rich history of the Kalamazoo area and helping sustain it. On the walls of the Eccentric Cafe in downtown Kalamazoo, visitors have a chance to view Larry Bell’s personal map, mask, and artwork collections, in addition to vintage beer advertisements and pieces specifically commissioned for the pub. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the brewery, attend a free tour at either their Kalamazoo or Comstock locations.
The Capri Drive-In Theatre in Coldwater opened in 1964 and was owned and operated by John and Mary Magocs. The duo held a contest to name the drive-in, with the winner receiving a brand new sewing machine. Admission in 1964 was $1 and a cheeseburger was 45¢. As time went on, the drive-in changed hands but continued to be one of the best cinema experiences around. Today, the Capri Drive-In continues to thrive, with an ever-growing and widening audience.
Historic Spots in Central West Michigan
Formerly known as the Pantlind Hotel, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids has a storied history. In 1913, the cornerstone of the Pantlind Hotel was laid, and initial construction of the hotel began. In 1917, the first meeting of the Michigan Tourist and Resort Association, what would eventually become the West Michigan Tourist Association, took place at the Pantlind. By 1925, the Pantlind Hotel was not only the hottest hotel going in West Michigan, but it was also ranked “One of the 10 Finest Hotels in America.” The hotel was acquired by the Amway Corporation in 1979 and reopened as the Amway Grand Plaza two years later. Today, the hotel continues the resurgence of downtown Grand Rapids as a member of the Historic Hotels of America.
Atwater Brewery and Spirits in Grand Rapids is housed in the historic Rowe building at the corner of Michigan Street and Monroe Avenue. While the building has undergone many titles from the initial Hotel Rowe in 1923 to Olds Manor from 1963 to 2001, its integrity withstands the test of time. It’s even still home to the original ballroom floor and chandeliers.
219 North 7th Street in Holland has always been an address associated with fun. The location was once a sporting goods shop, as well as a roller rink and concert hall that regularly attracted famous rock and roll stars. It’s no wonder that Chocolates by Grimaldi, a superstar in the world of handmade chocolates, has also chosen to call it home. In addition to the hand-rolled, hand-dipped, and handmade goodies that they offer, from peanut butter balls and gourmet turtles to chocolate-covered potato chips, they also offer Creative Chocolate Classes and tours.
Celebrating over 20 years, the Christmas Lite Show in Comstock Park continues to wow families looking for holiday fun. This is West Michigan’s largest animated light show and continues to entertain people of all ages. Bill Schrader started the event in 1997, and with the help of his family, it has grown, year after year, to become a tradition for many.
Coopersville & Marne Railway
The Coopersville & Marne Railway Company was incorporated on July 13th, 1989. The initial purpose was to purchase the old Grand Trunk right-of-way between the towns of Coopersville and Marne. When you visit today, you’ll see that their train is usually pulled by a 1950s era 125 ton General Motors SW9 switcher locomotive. If you look around, you’ll see more historic equipment and buildings, reminding you of the railway company’s history as it approaches a 30-year milestone.
The USS LST 393 Veterans Museum in Muskegon is a must-visit location for history buffs. The USS LST 393 was launched in Newport News, Virginia on Nov. 11th, 1942. Immediately after sea trials, she went to work in the defense of her country in Europe. Over nine thousand soldiers made their way to the front aboard LST 393 during WWII. Years of cleaning and painting resulted in a ship that could be toured. Development of the veterans museum has continued with the addition of thousands of artifacts, as well as restoration of more areas of the ship, and the effort continues to this day.
Teusink’s Pony Farm in Holland celebrated its 120th birthday last year! The farm has been owned and operated by the Teusink family, providing fun on the farm. Many of their guests are parents bringing their children to the farm and reliving fond memories from their own childhood. Teusink’s Pony Farm offers activities for every season, whether it’s spring field trips, summer picnics, fall hayrides, or winter sleigh rides.
Based out of Muskegon, Aquastar Cruises has a rich history that goes back over 30 years. The newly-renamed boat was formerly the Port City Princess until very recently. Founder Ralph Precious was known for coming up with some crazy ideas, so when he came home and announced that he wanted to buy a cruise ship, his wife Sylvia rolled her eyes. All these years later, the cruise ship has a new life ahead of it as Aquastar Cruises.
This year, the City of Wyoming has decided to switch things up when it comes to its annual Veterans Day program, replacing its outdoor evening ceremony for a morning breakfast event.
Set for Nov. 12 at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW, the breakfast is free for veterans, $5 for non-veterans. Those interested in attending need to pre-register for the program by Nov. 8 through the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department by calling 616-530-3164, emailing parks_info@wyomingmi.gov, or stop by the office located in City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW.
“The City of Wyoming is committed and proud to recognize those who have served, and continue to serve our country in the armed forces and protect our freedoms,” said Wyoming’s Director of Community Services Rebecca Rynbrandt. “Our Memorial Day and Veterans Day Ceremonies are a tribute to that service and protection.”
Staff did note that there will be no changes to the Memorial Day program which is held in May.
This year’s Veterans Day program will feature Ken Jones, who served in all four branches of the military, as the keynote speaker. Jones has a decorated military career and retired after 22 years of service to the United States of America. He has a broad range of technical and administrative skills that include aircraft interior design, computer network programming and various federal government program analysis programs. Jones currently serves as a legal administrative specialist for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Major Jack Poll will host the breakfast.
According to Wyoming staff, response to the breakfast has been pretty good. Usually for the Veterans Day program, the city has about 100 attendees with RSVPs for the 2018 breakfast already pass the halfway mark.
As part of the event and during the whole month of November, the Wyoming Department of Public Safety, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW, will be accepting donations for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Items sought for donation include $25 gift cards (local fast food restaurants, Meijer, Wal-Mart, Dollar Tree, gordon Food Marketplace, etc.), candy bars, pens, batteries, stamps, grooming, hygiene items and clothing (new or gently used.)
Fall is the perfect time to plan a getaway in West Michigan. With all the fall colors tours, Halloween happenings, and events throughout the state, you’ll want to get out and see everything. Take advantage of fall lodging specials and packages to make it easier when planning your fall adventure.
Plan a getaway to Marshall with a stay at the National House Inn. This bed and breakfast is the oldest operating inn in Michigan. The serenity is contagious, the sense of history infectious, and the number of events and special packages numerous. Drive through the country roads for a spectacular fall color tour and relax at this cozy nineteenth-century inn complete with modern conveniences.
Within the picturesque village of Saugatuck, as well as the surrounding southwest Michigan countryside, there are ample choices for lodging. From bed & breakfasts, hotels, motels, resorts, cottages, beachfront vacation homes, and vacation rentals, there is something for everyone. For a full list of places to stay, including lodging specials, visit their website.
Find out what fall’s all about in Saugatuck with a Lakeshore Lodging stay. With beautiful natural spots to take in the fall colors, a variety of great apple orchards and pumpkin patches, and Lakeshore Lodging’s selection of cozy places to call home, the Saugatuck area is perfect for an autumnal retreat.
Lodging Specials in Central West Michigan
The DoubleTree Hotel & Conference Center in Holland has discounts and specials throughout the fall for your entire group. Through December, they’re providing free breakfast for groups booking more than 40 room nights and 25% off the best available rate for groups of 10 or more rooms. If you book a meeting space in November, you’ll receive 50% off of room rental fee and 10% off food and beverage catering. Take advantage of these offers and stay well within budget for your upcoming event or tour.
Hart House Bed & Breakfast in Hart has teamed up with a local sports outfitters to offer an enriching experience on the water. Explore the natural resources of the area’s beautiful waterways, learn about the flora and fauna, unplug, relax, and restore. Let owners Greg and Bonny know your interest at the time of your reservation and they will customize a float for you.
The Ultimate Romance Package at the Holiday Inn in Spring Lake makes it easy to celebrate an anniversary or get out of town with a loved one. Your stay includes chocolate covered strawberries and champagne in your room, roses, and breakfast and dinner for two.
This fall and winter, take advantage of the Ludington area’s lodging specials and packages. The area’s hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, resorts, and cottages offer discounted room rates and enticing packages that will make your stay in Pure Ludington both more enjoyable and more affordable.
The Lamplighter Bed & Breakfast in Ludington has partnered with local shops, restaurants, golf courses, and boating charters to bring you exclusive experiences and upgrades. Enhance your stay and do something extra special to make your time in Ludington even more memorable.
Muskegon lodging facilities offer full-service hotels in downtown Muskegon and the brands you know and trust throughout the county. Quaint bed and breakfasts and seasonal vacation rentals line the lakes, with specials and packages offered throughout the year.
Michigan’s Central Swing has fall golf discounts in the Mt. Pleasant area! Choose from 11 champion style courses and 11 relaxing retreats to create your perfect golf getaway. All you need to do is tell Michigan Central Swing what you want, and they’ll do the rest for you! Stay in comfort and leave the planning to the professionals, giving you more time to perfect that golf swing.
No amount of running or other exercise massages our insides and settles or resets our mood the way laughter does.
By Tracie Abram, Michigan State University Extension
Not only is laughter universal, it is ageless. Picture a baby’s first belly laugh or seeing an older adult’s eyes light up with laughter. No matter what your age, laughter is good medicine and is an exercise everyone can enjoy doing. Laughter therapy has been practiced for centuries to help heal and today laughter is fast becoming the preventative exercise of choice due to its physical, mental, emotional and spiritual powers.
In the book, Laughter Therapy, by Annette Goodheart, Ph.D.; a whole chapter is dedicated to the physical benefits of laughter. You learn that laughter engages every major system in the body. Have you ever fallen out of your chair laughing or seen kids fall onto the floor and spitting food out of their mouths from laughing? Yes, it is known to cause us to wet our pants occasionally too! When we laugh, we literally lose muscle control.
The diaphragm is a muscle that separates our abdominal cavity from our chest cavity and is the only muscle in our body that is attached to other muscles. When we laugh, our diaphragm convulsively pulls on our side muscles and shakes up our stomach and other vital organs. We get an internal massage, which leaves our organs invigorated, juicy, pumped-up and alert.
Laughter has been clocked exiting our lungs at speeds up to seventy miles per hour. Needless to say, it gives our respiratory system a massive work out. Laughter sessions can provide a cardiovascular, pulmonary workout as well as massage your insides.
No amount of running or other exercise massages our insides and settles or resets our mood the way laughter does. People of all ages can do it together and it’s fun.
Laughing to relieve stress
Negative stress is both mentally and physically draining and can manifest as physical illness if not identified and managed. Laughter can help you manage stress similar to how physical exercise does. Laughter is both a pulmonary and cardiovascular workout in that it makes the heart and lungs work faster, which in turn pumps oxygenized blood to your cells faster, this stimulates your brain to make you more resilient to stressors.
Laughter is free, natural and you can access it easily. In fact, as Goodheart explains you don’t even need to find something funny or be feeling happy to practice laughter and benefit from it.
Don’t let emotional tension build to the point of tears. Set a goal to be aware or mindful of how many times per day you laugh. Think of it as an attitudinal exercise for your mind. Schedule time to practice laughter or join a laughter club.
Laughter education
Laughter education comes in a wide variety of forms and can be called clubs, classes, circles, programs or sessions. The most beneficial of these involve systematic programmable activities, typically provided in a group setting that provides laughter exercise and attitudinal mindfulness to achieve general or targeted goals. Laughter session objectives can include:
Increase awareness about attitudes and feelings towards laughter.
Provide opportunities for individuals to laugh.
Promote laughter in everyday life.
Provide respite from daily stress and worries.
Teach how laughter can be an effective mood regulator.
Encourage healthy choices and laughter, humor and mirth as self-care strategies.
Depending on the setting, individual participation in a therapeutic laughter program can be encouraged as a way to meet individual goals such as socialization, emotional expression, communication, focus, concentration and use of muscles and joints.
“November; Crows are approaching - Wounded leaves fall to the ground.”
~ Sir Kristian Goldmund Aumann
Make Sundays special
The Cascade Township Branch brings concerts inside for ‘Sunday Afternoon Live’, eight concerts from October 2018 through April 2019 featuring your favorite local artists. Sponsored by Cascade Charter Township, Cascade Downtown Development Authority, Cascade Community Foundation, Friends of the Cascade Township Library and Kingsland Ace Hardware.
Season tickets and mini ticket plans for the 2019 West Michigan Whitecaps baseball season are now on sale. Season ticket holders receive special perks ranging from a free luxury suite, discounted hot dog/soda vouchers, discounted preferred parking plans, souvenir shop discounts, a ticket buy-back and exchange program, early entry into the ballpark, guaranteed giveaway items and more (not all perks are included in all ticket packages).
With West Michigan being home to the Fruit Ridge — one of the best fruit-growing regions in the world — there is an abundance of orchards and farms to explore and plenty of apples and fresh cider to enjoy during the fall season.
Here are five ways to enjoy fall in West Michigan. We’re sure there are many more, but here’s five.
Fun fact:
Hmmm, I don’t think so
Nicholas Cage bought a pet octopus once because he sincerely thought it might help with his acting.
The Cascade Township Branch brings concerts inside for ‘Sunday Afternoon Live’, eight concerts from October 2018 through April 2019 featuring your favorite local artists. Sponsored by Cascade Charter Township, Cascade Downtown Development Authority, Cascade Community Foundation, Friends of the Cascade Township Library and Kingsland Ace Hardware.
Sundays, 2pm at Kent District Library, Cascade-Wisner Center, 2870 Jacksmith Ave. SE, Cascade, MI 49546.
A string of record-breaking sold-out comedy appearances, a new top-ranked show on SiriusXM, “The Pete & Sebastian Show,” and inclusion onForbes’2017’s “The World’s Highest Paid Comedians” who praised, “thanks to his enthusiasm and willingness to work, Maniscalco will likely continue to be onForbes’list for years to come,” comedianSebastian Maniscalcois having an incredible year.People Magazine’s“the people’s comedian” is hitting the road after he was dubbed “Stand Up Comedian of the Year” at Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, Canada.
He will make a stop in Grand Rapids at SMG-managedDeVos Performance Hallon Saturday, April 6, 2019, at 7pm.
Tickets will be available at the DeVos Place® and Van Andel Arena® box offices, online atTicketmaster.com, and charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. A purchase limit of eight (8) tickets will apply to every order. SeeTicketmaster.comfor all pricing and availability.
The tour title is appropriate as not only is “Stay Hungry” the name of his forthcoming 2018 book for Simon & Schuster, but it is also his personal motto.
“TheStay Hungrytour marks the release of my bookwhileI also venture into this new chapter of my life: being a dad. Lately, I’ve found myself reflecting on my path and all of the hard work it has taken to get to this point in my career. I hope to one day pass these values on to my daughter and encourage her to stay hungry for more,” shares Maniscalco, who has expanded his major motion picture portfolio to include a voice-over for character Johnny the Groundhog in the animated feature Nut Job 2 and appearances in films including the Will Ferrell-starring New Line Feature comedy The House and a role in 2018’s TAG, starring alongside Ed Helms and Jeremy Renner.
Dubbed “one of the hottest comics” byNewsdayand “one of the funniest comics working stand-up today” byEsquire, Sebastian’s live performance has become a critically-acclaimed event, with theLos Angeles Timesraving, “onstage, there’s an impatience to Maniscalco’s delivery as well, a hair-trigger exasperation with people and modern life, punctuated with baffled expressions, percussive thumps on the microphone and wide-swung leg kicks more associated with an Olympic speed-skater than a stand-up comic.”
Instead of asking questions – a theme that has served as the foundation of his previous comedy specials and shows likeAren’t You Embarrassed?andWhy Would You Do That?– Maniscalco’s new tour has the affable performer instead encouraging fans to follow in his footsteps and “stay hungry.”
Shares the manThe New York Timesraved for his “own kind of panache,” “Even though I’ve achieved some success, I will always stay hungry for more.”
Raising young children can be stressful and from time to time it can take its toll on parents and other caregivers. Self-care is a crucial way to ensure adults caring for young children are prepared to invest the time and energy they need to be the best caregivers they can be. If you aren’t taking care of yourself, you may not have much left to give your children.
Make sure your basic needs are met. In the hustle of trying to take care of young children, the needs of parents and caregivers often get overlooked. Think about the energy you invest in making sure your child’s needs are met. You make sure they get enough to drink and eat, provide enough time for them to get the restful sleep they need as well as the exercise and time to play—do you do the same for yourself?
Make it a routine. Just like you develop routines for your child, make self-care part of your daily routine. Come up with simple routines you can do to help you relax and unwind and take care of yourself. Maybe it’s taking a quick walk by yourself a few days a week or making time to bake if that’s a hobby you enjoy.
Start small. Big changes can seem intimidating, so don’t think of increasing your self-care as something big you have to do overnight. Break up the task into small pieces and find something small to start with, like challenging yourself to drinking less caffeine to help you sleep better at night. Try writing down your goals and keeping track of your efforts—this can help motivate you to keep going and is a great way to see your progress. Once you have incorporated that change, try making another small change.
Model self-care for your child. Let your child know what you’re doing and why self-care is so important. You can tell them, “This is Daddy’s time to himself. When I go for a walk alone it gives me time to think and helps me feel calm and relaxed.” Children learn from watching us and when we show them we value self-care, they learn to value it too.
Investing in your own well-being is a way to invest in your child’s well-being. Take the time to nurture yourself so you have the energy and motivation to nurture your child.
For more articles on child development, academic success, parenting and life skill development, please visit the Michigan State University Extension website.
To learn about the positive impact children and families experience due to MSU Extension programs, read our 2017 impact report. Additional impact reports, highlighting even more ways Michigan 4-H and MSU Extension positively impacted individuals and communities in 2017, can be downloaded from the Michigan 4-H website.
Vernon “Chip” Wienke III as Detective Murray and Ms. Michigan Brittany Styles as Murray’s partner Detective McMaster
By WKTV Staff
It was a simple question from one of his students that helped Clayton Veltkamp rekindle his passion to become a filmmaker.
Veltkamp graduated from Western Michigan University with a broadcasting degree and then earned a master’s in Film and TV Production from the academy of Art in San Francisco all with the goal of becoming a filmmaker. He would embark on a freelance career that has spanned a decade.
Returning to Michigan for family reasons, Veltkamp continued to do freelance client work, and took a summer job teaching Digital Movie Making to teenage students as part of Ferris State University’s Kendall College of Art and Design’s Continuing Studies Program.
Clayton Veltkamp
In the summer of 2017, one of his students asked him “Have you ever made a movie? No? How come?” And, that was all the inspiration Veltkamp needed. Veltkamp’s one time dream of becoming a filmmaker became an overnight obsession.
The result is the film “Dark Justice,” set to kick off WKTV’s Midnite Movies on Friday. The movie airs at midnight on Nov. 9.
The story is of a detective investigating a series of vigilante murders that threaten a shaky truce between rival criminal gang leaders. The detective must solve the case before the outlaw plunges the city into chaos. But, when confronted by the corruption and injustice that motivates the killer, the detective joins their righteous quest seeking revenge of his own.
Working within a strict budget of $7,000 and drawing off his love for comic books and fantasy, Veltkamp spent the next few months developing his feature film script, scouting locations, and networking with potential actors. On March 26, 2018, principal photography began.
Investigating the crime scene Detectives Murray and McMaster (Vernon Wienke & Brittany Styles).
With a skeleton crew of eager helpers, a 4k cinema camera borrowed from local public access station WKTV, and a single building from the 1800s that he managed to gain free range of; Clayton spent the next month and a half getting all the shots, wrapping up production on May 12, 2018.
Drawing on his years as a freelance editor, he locked in the picture within a month and enlisted the help of a local sound designer and recording studio Trulogic Media to handle the final sound mix. The goal was to have the film finished by July so he could begin the process of entering film festivals and preparing for AFM where he will seek distribution and networking opportunities.
The film features Vernon “Chip” Wienke III as Detective Murray and Ms. Michigan Brittany Styles as Murray’s partner Detective McMaster. Also in the cast are Michael Gordon as Morretti, Dirk Hughes as Savator, Tom Black as Chief Pickett, and Laine Fleszar as Marry.
The film is currently available through Amazon Prime. For more on the film, visit www.cultivationcinema.com.
Season tickets and mini ticket plans for the 2019 West Michigan Whitecaps baseball season are now on sale!
The Whitecaps have several different season ticket packages available, starting as low as $67.50. These include a full-season 70-game plan, half-season, 10-game plans, a 5-game, Tigers Wednesdays plans and flexbooks. Season ticket holders receive special perks ranging from a free luxury suite, discounted hot dog/soda vouchers, discounted preferred parking plans, souvenir shop discounts, a ticket buy-back and exchange program, early entry into the ballpark, guaranteed giveaway items and more (not all perks are included in all ticket packages). For complete season ticket plan information including a list of perks for each plan, please visit www.whitecapsbaseball.com.
Box Office Manager Shaun Pynnonen said the 10-game plans and the Tigers Wednesdays plans are sure to be favorites.
“The Tigers Wednesdays plans are always popular. This year fans can choose from five or ten games. Those that purchase one will receive guaranteed giveaway items as well as hot dog/soda vouchers” Pynnonen said. “10-game plans will also be popular this year. These are for the more casual fans that value the great entertainment. They get a few games a month which works out great when planning summer schedules.”
Fans can purchase season tickets and mini plans online here or by calling the Whitecaps front office at (616) 784-4131. Current season ticket holders have until Friday, December 14 to renew their season ticket locations; after that new season ticket holder seat locations will be selected.
Tickets for groups of 20 or more, including private party areas, will go on sale on Friday, November 16. Individual game tickets will go on sale in early 2019.
By Terry Clark-Jones, Michigan State University Extension
Is there a way to fight fairly? Yes, there is! Resolving conflicts with positive communication can bring people closer together and make relationships stronger. Below is one way you can begin to learn how to deal with conflict fairly, as well as teach those close to you how to fight fair. This works best in close relationships, such as those involving parents, partners, spouses, children, other family members or roommates. Begin by setting some time to explain conflict resolution to everyone in the household. Each person needs to be willing to follow the steps and a chance to practice.
Start with an agreement –Agree that conflicts exist in order to reach common ground at the end of the disagreement. Therefore, trust, love, respect, caring and kindness are key elements in every disagreement.
Stop and think — The next time you find yourself arguing with someone close to you, stop and think about your anger threshold, that point at which you know you are losing it. This is the point at which you can most effectively make changes. At lower levels of frustration, we are all capable of some self-control.
Code word — Choose a code word for anger thresholds. All household members must agree to respect the code word. You can call the code word yourself, if your own anger has reached your threshold or somebody else can call the code word, if they see anger rising in you or in someone else. Give everyone a chance to practice using the code word. For example, “I am calling a time out”.
Calm down — When someone calls the code, everyone must stop talking and moving for one minute. During that one minute, everyone should try to relax physically and think calming thoughts. Be a model of calm.
Come back and try again — Once everyone is calm, discuss the problem using “I statements”. At the end of one minute, someone can ask, “Are we calm enough to talk?” If everyone answers “yes,” you can start to work on a solution together. You may decide that more time is needed to calm down. If that is the case, each person needs to go to a separate place for some quiet time.
Be specific — Individuals need to be specific about what is bothering you. Accept statements and try to understand them for what they mean.
Keep the issue in the present — Do not bring up previous incidences, previous fights, actions, inactions or behavior which have nothing to do with the topic of the current fight. No one can fix an always or never situation such as, “you have always been stubborn” or “you never listen to me.”
Use respectful language — No name calling, swearing, insults, threats or intimidation. This creates an atmosphere of distrust, more anger and vulnerability.
Use calm voice — No raising your voice and dominating the conversation. Do not attempt to control by out-shouting or making more noise to drive home a point.
Name it to tame it — Always acknowledge the other’s basic feelings. For example, “I understand you are feeling frustrated right now, and I am glad you shared that.”
In the end of a fight or conflict, the ultimate goals is for individuals involved to come away feeling respected, understood and committed to change some behavior that may be irritating or difficult for another to accept. Compromise is always a win-win resolution to conflict.
With some or all of these guidelines in place, conflicts will become less destructive and with more constructive expression of anger.
What should I do about all the webs in my trees? A caller to the Michigan State University Extension Lawn and Garden Hotline was concerned that caterpillars within the webbing were still causing damage to her trees. Should I spray? Should I trim it out of the tree? Can I burn it out of the tree? If I leave the web, will the insects return to it next season?
Fall webworm, Hyphantria cunea, is a moth that is better known for its caterpillar stage that creates large webbing at the ends of branches. Webs up to 2 to 3 feet in length can be seen at ends of branches from mid-summer and into fall. When active in the summer, they may contain a colony of hundreds of webworm caterpillars.
This native species feeds on at least 80 species of trees, though most commonly seen on walnut, birch, black cherry, elms and maples. Young larvae begin to feed in early July in southern Michigan, and at the start of August in northern Michigan. Protected within the webs, newly hatched caterpillars first feed on the upper surface of the leaves, and after several molts the larger caterpillars consume whole leaves.
Explaining that it is not a serious threat to the tree is often not the answer expected. Since the colony of caterpillars feed from mid- to late summer, it causes less damage than insects that feed in the spring. By late summer, plants have had time for their leaves to produce energy reserves for the following season. Trimming out the web is an option, but often it is not feasible as it is high up in the canopy and cannot be reached.
Fall webworm caterpillars feed on leaves for about six weeks. Once done feeding, the 1-inch long caterpillars move from the webbing to bark crevices or move down into the soil where they form a cocoon. Within this cocoon, they survive the winter to emerge as a moth the following spring.
This late in the season, most of the caterpillars have left the nest and a close inspection of branches within the webs reveals developing buds for next season. Webs will deteriorate over the winter and webworm caterpillars will not return to these webs next spring.
Photo by Jean Persely
Never burn the webbed branch while it is in the tree. This extreme measure damages the plant more than the insect would. Trimmed out branches can be burned or buried. Although feeding by the webworms strips leaves within the webs, it likely will not kill the branch.
Control measures work best when webs are still small. The webbing makes it difficult to spray with pesticides since the caterpillars are protected within the web. Pesticides will work if nests are torn by a high pressure spray. Even a garden hose set to a high pressure can tear into a nest and kill many caterpillars.
Fall webworm can be managed with lower toxicity pesticides, but a smart gardener will first consider if pesticides are even needed. There are times when a number of webs in one smaller tree would create a situation where management options need to be considered. See this Fall Webworm tip sheet from the University of Minnesota for management options.
Will a nest left in the tree result in caterpillars returning to the nest in the spring? No, they do not return to these nests, but it is possible the insects that survive within cocoons on the bark or in the soil emerge as moths to lay eggs on leaves on the same tree or nearby trees. The good news is that for the most part, fall webworm nests are rarely a stress on the tree and fortunately nature has provided dozens of parasitoids and predators to help keep it in check.
Sutton, a novel about the famous bank robber from the Great Depression grabs you and keeps you enthralled in his life of crime. Sutton educates, entertains, and delights the reader. It will appeal to a crossover audience of lovers of historical fiction, true-crime narratives and mystery novels. This poignant, comic, fast-paced and fact-studded story by Pulitzer Prize winner, J.R. Moehringer, tells the story of economic pain that feels eerily modern, while still unfolding a story of doomed love.
Willie Sutton came of age at a time when banks were out of control. If the banks weren’t taking brazen risks, causing millions to lose their jobs and homes, they were shamelessly seeking government bailouts. Sound familiar?
Trapped in a cycle of panics, depressions and soaring unemployment, Willie Sutton saw only one way out, and only one way to win the girl of his dreams. So he began a 30-year career of robbing banks, becoming one of America’s most successful bank robbers. Willie Sutton became so good at breaking into banks and such a master at breaking out of prisons, police called him one of the most dangerous men in New York, and the FBI put him on its first-ever Most Wanted List.
But the public rooted for Sutton. He never fired a shot and after all, his victims were merely those bloodsucking banks. When he was finally caught for good in 1952, crowds surrounded the jail and chanted his name.
Willie, the Actor, Sutton was released from Attica prison on Christmas Eve 1969, after serving 17 years. The irony that Gov. Rockefeller, a former banker, signed the order was not lost on Sutton. His lawyer made a deal with a newspaper for an exclusive, so Sutton spent his first night and the next day with a newspaper reporter and a photographer going on a chronological tour together of the scenes of Sutton’s exploits in and around New York City during his long life of crime. As they visit the sites of Sutton’s childhood, life and crimes, the old thief regales the reporter with stories and, more significantly, remembers the events for the reader in flashback narration.
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).
Social butterfly Smudgee was initially a Belmont rescue back in February of 2018 (we think she was four years old, born in early 2014) who was taken in by Focus on Ferals (FOF). They did their typical top-notch stray work-up, discovered she was FIV+, and was told she had already been spayed due to a scar on her ventral abdomen. So imagine their surprise when April rolled around and their sweet little calico-tiger girl popped out a litter of kittens!
Unable to house a mom and brand-spanking newborns at their facility, FOF enlisted the help of a dual volunteer who took in the beautiful brood and provided a cozy, comfy foster home for Smudgee and her three offspring until the kittens could be weaned and placed into their adoption program. Mama then went back to FOF and awaited her turn to find a home, but as the months rolled on by and she was overlooked time and time again, FOF enlisted our help; on Aug. 6th, Big Sid’s welcomed this darling, playful little lady as our newest member of a very elite group of kitties.
From the get-go, Smudgee has been extremely outgoing, always seeming to be around no matter where you are or where your gaze falls. She adores attention from the volunteers and is exceptionally tolerant of her surrogate son, Just Jack, who tackles her on a regular basis in hopes of getting her to chase him around. She mingles and mixes well with the older crowd too, and honestly is so laid-back that we feel she would thrive in pretty much any type of family situation—kids, cats and perhaps even a gentle companion of the canine persuasion.
Soon after her arrival, she discovered the joys of what we call our ‘feeding frenzy’ and since then has been a very enthusiastic participant; in fact, we are watching her dainty waistline so that she doesn’t eat so much as to appear pregnant—again! Interestingly enough, before Smudgee came down to our sanctuary, Dr. Jen had to extract all of the teeth behind her canines as her mouth was on fire due to an inflammatory condition known as stomatitis, a condition that is fairly common in FIV+ kitties.
And until Smudgee had partaken in the tempting tray feeding—get this—she was consuming kibble like a boss (even though yummy canned food was offered pre- and post-op at the clinic). Also on a positive note, since she doesn’t have a mean bone in her ever-expanding lil’ body AND she has only a few teeth to claim as her own, the risk of transmission to another household cat is negligible. Plus, will ya look at that ADORABLE FACE?! How anyone can resist that is beyond us.
More about Smudgee:
Medium
Calico
Adult
Female
House-trained
Vaccinations up to date
Spayed
Not declawed
Good in a home with other cats, children
Want to adopt Smudgee? Learn about the adoption process here. Fill out a pre-adoption form here.
Can’t adopt, but still want to help? Find out how you can sponsor a cat!
Crash’s Landing and Big Sid’s Sanctuary have a common mission: To take at-risk stray cats off the streets of the Greater Grand Rapids area, provide them with veterinary care and house them in free-roaming, no-kill facilities until dedicated, loving, permanent homes can be found.
Opening Nov. 2nd and running for three weekends through Nov. 18th, Farmers Alley Theatre (221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo, MI) is proud to present the West Michigan area premiere of A Doll’s House, Part 2. Called “smart, funny and utterly engrossing” by The New York Times, this whip-smart new play by Lucas Hnath (author of last season’s hit The Christians) is THE play of the moment that delivers explosive laughs while also posing insightful questions about marriage, gender inequality, and human rights.
In the final scene of Henrik Ibsen’s groundbreaking masterwork of 1879, A Doll’s House, Nora Helmer makes the shocking decision to leave her husband and children, and begin a life on her own. This climactic event — when Nora slams the door on everything in her life — instantly propelled world drama into the modern age. In A Doll’s House, Part 2, many years have passed since Nora’s exit. Now, there a knock on that same door. Nora has returned. But why? And what will it mean for those she left behind? A timely work filled with powerful women who struggle against a society that has defined gender roles, A Doll’s House, Part 2 is the rare sequel that stands perfectly well on its own.
Farmers Alley Theatre welcomes back director D. Terry Williams to helm this modern classic. Mr. Williams is known for tackling vibrant new works at Farmers Alley having directed Hnath’s The Christians last season along with his previous credits Disgraced, The Whipping Man, Other Desert Cities and the Wilde Award Winning production of Old Wicked Songs.
Elizabeth Terrel will bring life to the classic character of Nora Helmer. An associate professor of voice and movement in Western Michigan University’s Theatre Department, Ms. Terrel was last seen on our stage as the beautiful, self-obsessed movie star, Masha in our 2015 production of Vanya + Sonia + Masha + Spike.
Chicago actor Paul Stroili plays Nora’s estranged husband, Torvald. A resident artist at the Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea, Mr. Stroili has an impressive list of credits on stage (God of Carnage, August: Osage County) and screen (“Empire”, “Chicago PD”, “Malcolm in the Middle”). Zoe Vonder Haar returns to Farmers Alley Theatre to play the Helmer’s housekeeper Anne Marie, after lighting up our stage the past two summers in It Shoulda Been You and The Bridges of Madison County. WMU Theatre Major Arizsia Staton portrays Nora’s daughter, Emmy, whom she abandoned all those years ago.
A Doll’s House, Part 2 runs Nov. 2nd through the 18th at 221 Farmers Alley in Downtown Kalamazoo. Tickets are $32 on Fri/Sat/Sun and $27 on Thursdays. Seniors 65 and above receive $2 off per ticket and student tickets are $15. Reservations can be made by calling our Box Office at (269) 343-2727 or visiting the website here.
Friday, Nov. 2nd at 8 pm
Saturday, Nov. 3rd at 2 pm
Saturday, Nov. 3rd at 8 pm
Sunday, Nov. 4th at 2 pm
Thursday, Nov. 8th at7:30 pm
Friday, Nov. 9th at 8 pm
Saturday, Nov. 10th at 8 pm
Sunday, Nov. 11th at2 pm
Thursday, Nov. 15th at 7:30 pm
Friday, Nov. 16th at 8 pm
Saturday, Nov. 17th at 8 pm
Sunday, Nov. 18th at 2 pm
We will be holding post-show talkbacks after performances on Nov. 3rd (2pm show), Nov. 9th and Nov. 16th.
Since 2015, Chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been found in deer in several of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula counties including Clinton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, and Montcalm, as well as most recently in October 2018 in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Dickenson county. Deer hunters should be aware of how easily CWD can be transferred to in cervids such as deer, elk or moose.
CWD is a neurological disease that affects cervid animals. It can be transmitted through direct animal to animal contact or contact with saliva, urine, feces, blood, and/or certain carcass parts such as brain tissue and spinal cord of an infected animal.
Hunters need to be aware that the disease can also be spread via infected plants and soil. Prions, which are single proteins that cause the infections, are not easily killed by traditional strategies such as heat. Research from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston has shown prions have been able to bind to the roots and leaves of wheat grass plants when incubated with contaminated material, even in highly diluted amounts. They also found that plants grown in infected soil can transport the deadly prions. Hamsters fed the contaminated plants contracted CWD in the research project.
Although current research has found no direct link from CWD to variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend not consuming venison from infected deer. Michigan State University Extension highly recommends that venison from a positively infected CWD deer not be consumed. When in doubt, do not consume the venison and properly dispose of the entire carcass. This brief background is meant to emphasize that CWD is a serious emerging disease in Michigan and hunters can take steps to prevent the spread of it.
Several pairs of tight-fitting, disposable gloves — these not only can protect hunters from disease but also assist in keeping the deer carcass clean during the dressing process.
Clean, sharp knife to make cuts and split carcass. Use separate knives from your household knives.
Pre-moistened wipes and/or container of clean water to maintain sanitation of knife and saw.
Strings about six to eight inches long to tie off the anus and assist in other dressing procedures.
Large resealable food grade plastic bag to place the heart and/or liver.
Clean, dry towels or paper towels to dry the carcass with after washing.
Rope to tie legs apart or drag deer.
Kill tag attached to a string.
Multiple non-porous disposable trash bags if hunting in the CWD core management zones to dispose of all carcass parts, including guts, and remove them from the environment.
All deer harvested in the Michigan CWD Core Area (Ionia, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties) and Management Zone (Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Hillsdale, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties), cannot be moved out of those areas unless:
It is deboned meat, quarters or other parts of a cervid that do not have any part of the spinal column or head attached, antlers, antlers attached to a skull cap cleaned of all brain and muscle tissue, hides, upper canine teeth, or a finished taxidermist mount; or
The head is submitted at a designated DNR drop off locations within 24 hours after killing the deer. Drop-off locations include DNR check points, drop boxes and some venison processors.
Carcasses can be moved into the CWD Core Area from a CWD Management Zone county with no restrictions. Hunters may not take a deer from the CWD Core Area into the CWD Management Zone for processing unless the conditions above are met.
They called him the “Chairman of the Board of Music.”
Frank Sinatra was one of the most popular entertainers of the 20th century as well as one of the best-selling recording artists of all time.
Twenty years before fans screamed themselves hoarse at the sight of The Beatles, bobbysoxers worked themselves into a frenzy at the sight of a skinny, 20-something kid who sang with Tommy Dorsey’s Big Band.
Sinatra, though he didn’t sing rock music, was the music’s first rock star.
Grand Rapids Pops welcomes singer and pianist Tony DeSare back to Grand Rapids for a salute to the music of Frank Sinatra titled Sinatra and Beyond.
DeSare, who starred in the Off-Broadway show, Our Sinatra, will perform songs made famous by “The Sultan of Swoon.” Enjoy such “ring-a-ding-ding” tunes as Come Fly With Me, I’ve Got the World on a String, My Way and many more.
Associate Conductor John Varineau leads the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Fox Motors Pops series concerts at 8pm Friday and Saturday, Nov. 9-10 and at 3pm Sunday, Nov. 11 in DeVos Performance Hall. Guest Artist Sponsor: Holland Home.
Described in the New York Times in 2012 as “two parts young Sinatra to one part Billy Joel,” DeSare channels the best of the Great American Songbook.’
Generally when someone mentions the music of Ol’ Blue Eyes, they think of an older Sinatra, sporting a tuxedo, singing such songs as “New York, New York.” But DeSare, age 42, prefers Sinatra’s music from the 1950s, when he recorded such albums as “In the Wee Small Hours” and “Songs for Only the Lonely” for Capitol Records.
“Frank’s voice was dead-on perfect, and he was such a great interpreter,” DeSare said. “Plus, he was working with those classic Nelson Riddle arrangements.”
Named a Rising Star Male Vocalist by Downbeat magazine in 2009, DeSare has appeared in venues ranging from Carnegie Hall to jazz clubs. He’s headlined in Las Vegas with comedian Don Rickles, and he’s appeared with major symphony orchestras.
DeSare’s first appearance with the Grand Rapids Symphony was for its Wolverine Worldwide Holiday Pops in 2012. Earlier that year, he was in West Michigan to perform Our Sinatra at Mason Street Warehouse in Saugatuck.
Frank Sinatra by Gottlieb, c 1947
Tony DeSare’s first instrument, which he took up at age 8, was violin. Two years later, he began playing on a little Casio keyboard from Radio Shack. That’s what stuck.
“I’m not sure exactly what it is,” he told the South Bend Tribune in August. “I know one of the big things is that it’s the only instrument that lets you be your own orchestra.”
At age 11, he became obsessed with learning George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Mining his parents’ record collection, he soon developed a fondness for such classic pop singers as Sinatra and Nat King Cole.
Music remained a hobby, and he was pre-law at Ithaca College until he attended a Billy Joel concert, and the singer/songwriter shared some advice from the stage for the audience of 20,000.
“What Billy said is that we did not have to become recording stars or follow in his footsteps,” DeSare recalled in an interview with the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal in September 2017. “He basically said, ‘If you feel you can pay your bills by playing music, that alone is reason enough to follow your dream,’”
“I just sat back, thinking to myself, ‘Wow, when you put it that way,’” he added. “I was much too far along for me to switch and begin pursuing a music degree,” he said. “But I dropped my law courses the next Monday and became a business major.”
Tickets
Single tickets for the Fox Motors Pops series start at $18 and are available at the Grand Rapids Symphony box office, weekdays 9am-5pm at 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, (located across from the Calder Plaza), or by calling 616.454.9451 x 4. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum).
Tickets are available at the DeVos Place box office, weekdays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. or on the day of the concert beginning two hours prior to the performance. Tickets also may be purchased online at GRSymphony.org.
Special Offers
Full-time students of any age can purchase tickets for $5 at the door on the day of the concert by enrolling in the GRS Student Tickets program, sponsored by Calvin College. Discounts also are available to members of MySymphony360, the Grand Rapids Symphony’s organization for young professionals ages 21-35.
Students age 7-18 also are able to attend for free when accompanied by an adult. Free for Kids tickets must be purchased in advance at the GRS Ticket office. Up to two free tickets are available with the purchase of a regular-price adult ticket. Go online for more details.
Symphony Scorecard provides up to four free tickets for members of the community receiving financial assistance from the State of Michigan and for members of the U.S. Armed Forces, whether on active or reserve duty or serving in the National Guard. Go online for information to sign up with a Symphony Scorecard Partner Agency.
Hungry families and individuals who use community emergency food pantries receive several canned foods, like fruits and vegetables, as well as other non-perishable foods.
While fresh foods are always recommended for meal preparation, studies show canned foods are comparable to cooked, fresh and frozen varieties in providing major vitamins to the American diet.
According to the Canned Food Alliance, using canned foods in your meal planning has an array of benefits:
Canned foods add a variety of food types to your meal planning. Adding canned beans or chickpeas and canned tuna to a fresh garden salad instantly makes the meal more interesting and adds important nutrients, just from opening up a can.
Using canned foods and other forms of food (fresh, frozen, canned and dried) in your cooking can add more flavors to your meals and save on your food budget.
If you are crunched for time to prepare meals like many busy families, especially during the week, using canned foods will help you to get food on the table quickly.
Fresh food, while undoubtedly delicious and nutritious, can spoil if not used a short time after purchase.
Michigan State University Extension recommends that canned vegetables and beans first be rinsed to decrease salt content. Be sure to always read food labels and when possible, choose the low sodium varieties of canned foods.
There are still consumer questions about whether or not canned foods are healthy for you. The Canned Food Alliance says that despite the fact canned foods are getting a “bad rap”, they are actually nutritious, accessible, convenient, affordable and flavorful.
Keep food safety in mind when visiting and choosing canned food at your community food pantries. Never choose canned foods that are past their expiration dates or having any flaw such as dented or bulging.
Families who are on a tight food budget often use community food pantries and want to know how to flavor and spice up canned foods when preparing meals.
Ask your community food pantry if they have recipes for their participants, most community food pantries offer low-cost recipes. For additional recipes, you can also checkout Feeding America’s cookbook for a cause for tasty snacks and entree ideas.
There are several ways you can add pizazz to your meal preparation by using canned foods the following ways:
Canned chili beans, green chilies, mushrooms to casseroles, salads, etc.
Canned vegetables to soups, stews, salads and casseroles
Canned beans to soups, stews, nachos and casseroles
Canned tomatoes and tomato products to one-pot and skillet meals, casseroles, soups and stews
Canned cream soups to casseroles
Canned fruit to fruit salads, fruit parfaits and other desserts
Using canned foods are an economical way of saving money and provide satisfying and favorable homemade meals for your family. Using the above simple tips for preparing meals, entrée, desserts, etc. can be pleasing and provide a sense of well-being to those who are cash strapped.
Growing up in Mexico, Mónica Robles pestered her father to give her things he said were “only for boys.” Persistence paid off, and she did learn to ride motorcycles and pilot private planes. Today, Mónica takes that same feisty mindset to every endeavor she takes on, from community leadership to international marketing. Don’t miss this personal story of pluck and charm: from Mexico with love!
"I would rather sit on a pumpkin, and have it all to myself, than be crowded on a velvet cushion."
~ Henry David Thoreau
Where are they coming from?
Where are they all going?
September marks the ninth record-breaking month in a row for 2018 at Gerald R. Ford International Airport, which has seen growth in 62 of the last 69 months. September 2018 was the busiest September ever, and this quarter marks the busiest third quarter ever — beating out September 2017 for that title.
Through September 2018, GFIA has already surpassed its annual totals reached in all years through 2014 with 2,432,413 passengers served in 2018. Folks, that’s a LOT of people. Read all about it here.
There are no second chances
You either get the shot, or you don’t.
Organized by the Brooklyn Museum, “Who Shot Sports” highlights the “aesthetic, cultural and historical significance of the images and artists in the history of sports since the invention of photography in the 19th century. Visitors will see how the evolution of photographic technology enabled its practitioners to capture the human body in motion as it had never been seen before,” according to supplied information. Go here to read more.
Not to add to your stress level, but …
One increasingly common cause for dementia symptoms is stress. And those overwhelmed by caring for others are particularly at risk.
“So-called ‘caregiver dementia’—cognitive and memory issues brought on by the stress of caring for a loved one—is a very real phenomenon,” Dr. Hatfield said.
Fortunately, caregiver dementia is reversible. Symptoms go away when the stress and depression are resolved, which can be particularly reassuring for those immersed in primary caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. Go here to learn more.
Fun Fact:
Dogs sniff good smells with their left nostril
Dogs normally start sniffing with their right nostril, then keep it there if the smell could signal danger, but they’ll shift to the left side for something pleasant, like food or a mating partner. This also applies to dogs living in Kentwood and Wyoming. You know you always wondered.
As you are passing out candy to the trick-or-treaters, WKTV will be featuring a line-up of locally produced horror and Halloween films, with a special premiere showing from a familiar filmmaker.
Director and Producer Moe McCoy’s “Angel Horror Movie” will air at 10 p.m. It is a film that according toMcCoy, had its own “horror” backstory that the team from his Fireproof Film company managed to overcome.
“This was a film that I originally started shooting in Grand Rapids,” McCoy said. “I had the house lined up and everyone there and then there was a drive-by and I everyone just left, the cast, the crew, everybody.”
Not to be deterred, McCoy took the concept with him, reshooting in Houston, Texas with a Red camera, only to discover that the film was so large only a few places could handle the editing, one of which is WKTV.
“So I came back to my roots,” said McCoy, who got his start in film by volunteering at WKTV. “It has been so much fun being back here in Michigan and at the WKTV studio. I am excited about the premiere.”
WKTV’s Halloween specials start at 7 p.m. with the Rosehill Cemetery Tour followed by a family film, “We Are the Dead,” produced by a group of Grand Valley State University students utilizing WKTV equipment. “We Are the Dead” follows the story of three men as they try to survive the zombie apocalypse. This film will air at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 30; 8:30 p.m. and 1:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31; and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2.
At 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 31, will be “The Basement,” an indie film produced by another volunteer and local producer Chris Penny of Dogbyte Films. After that is McCoy’s “Angel Horror Film.”
The rest of the line-up includes:
11 p.m. Transitions
11:30 p.m. Return of the Curse
1 a.m. Grand Rapids Paranormal Alliance Ghost Documentary
