Category Archives: Citizen Journalism

GVSU’s Fall Arts Celebration spotlights the arts during multiple free events

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Kariamu and Company: Traditions — A Celebration of African Dance (photo supplied)

By Matthew Makowski, Grand Valley State University

 

For the past 15 years, West Michigan audiences have enjoyed a series of six free events every fall at Grand Valley that celebrate the positive impact of the arts. President Thomas J. Haas said these events are offered as gifts to the local community that has supported the evolution of the university.

 

“Each year, these six diverse and free events provide us with the opportunity to thank the West Michigan community for its continued support of the performing arts at Grand Valley, and the university as a whole,” said Haas. “The arts lift us up, make us think and provide an endless variety of entertainment and enrichment, and we hope others will join us in celebrating the richness of the worlds of poetry, dance, art, music and more this fall.”

 

Here are the upcoming Fall Arts Celebration events for November and December. For more event details, go here.

 

Kariamu and Company: Traditions — A Celebration of African Dance

  • Nov. 12, at 7:30 pm
  • Location: Louis Armstrong Theatre, Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus

Kariamu Welsh is a Guggenheim award–winning dance scholar, choreographer, educator and the founder of the Umfundalai technique. For the past 40 years, Welsh has developed Umfundalai as a contemporary dance technique that seeks to articulate the essence of African-oriented movement while highlighting the cultural and aesthetic continuity found in the rhythm and artistic sensibilities that cover the full range of African dance. As an “artivist,” Welsh feels that one of her responsibilities is to tell the stories, myths, legends and histories of the marginalized, invisible, forgotten and oppressed. Welsh is currently a professor of dance in the Boyer College of Music and Dance at Temple University.

 

Photo supplied

Celebrating Holiday Splendor: Craig Jessop Conducts “The Many Moods of Christmas”

  • Dec. 3, at 7:30 pm
  • Location: Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain Street NE, Grand Rapids

Robert Shaw’s “The Many Moods of Christmas” meshes pieces of 18 of the most traditional carols combined with music from composers such as Handel, Bizet and Bach. Renowned choral conductor Craig Jessop will lead the GVSU Arts Chorale and local high school students for this special holiday celebration concert. Jessop, professor of music and founding dean of the Cain College of the Arts at Utah State University, is the former director of the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. He led the ensemble as a featured conductor during the opening ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

The sitting epidemic

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Prolonged periods of sitting could lead to serious health problems. Could an anti-sitting campaign gain traction? (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Kim Delafuente, Spectrum Health Beat

 

Here’s a question for the youngsters: Did you know that, up until recent years, most corners of society considered smoking to be socially acceptable?

 

Just 10 years ago, in fact, restaurants in many states still offered smoking sections. It’s truly a silly concept, given that cigarette smoke travels throughout the restaurant anyway.

 

Opposition to smoking began to emerge in the late 1960s and ’70s, but there had been little in the way of enforcements or taboos up until the 1980s, ’90s and ’00s.

 

These days, the smoking rate in the U.S. is at its lowest point in decades, with about 15.5 percent of adults identifying as smokers. (That’s down from a high of about 42 percent in the 1960s.)

 

America’s anti-smoking campaign may come to exemplify how society approaches another topic: sitting.

 

That’s right, sitting.

 

At work, at home, in our cars, watching events and so on, we spend a lot of time sitting. We sit an average of nine to 10 hours each day, not to mention the time we spend sleeping.

 

But just as it was with smoking, sitting has a negative impact on our health.

 

Within an hour of sitting, we see declines in our fat metabolism and our HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol).

 

So how did we get here?

 

Technology has eliminated the need to manually open our garage doors, get up and sharpen our pencils, play board games, scrapbook or even get up and talk to coworkers. Instant messaging apps and emails make it all too easy to send a quick question to someone just down the hall.

 

We don’t have to make our own meals or go to the store as often—or at all.

 

Throughout this evolution, movement has been minimized from our daily lives. In many cases, movement has become optional and unnecessary.

 

Sitting has, by all measures, become the norm.

 

But sitting too much is not the same as not getting enough exercise.

 

When we hear the recommendations to get up and move every hour, to spend less time watching TV, to take the stairs, etc., remember that even the smallest movements have health benefits.

 

As your muscles contract, fat begins to shift from your blood stream to the moving muscles. This reactivates your fat metabolism.

 

Can you prevent the negative health effects of sitting too much when you’re someone who exercises regularly?

 

Maybe not.

 

Even people who exercise regularly—those who meet the physical activity guidelines of 150 minutes or more a week—may undo some of the positive health benefits of exercise if they simply spend the rest of the day sitting.

 

Add small movements into your day.

 

Find activities that you can do standing instead of sitting: talking on the phone, folding the laundry, reading email.

 

Do you fidget? That’s great! Tap your foot, twirl your hair and stand up to stretch.

 

At its peak, 42 percent of the adult population in the U.S. smoked.

 

Is sitting the new smoking?

 

From a numbers standpoint, it could be worse. A significant portion of the population spends the day sitting, which means this particular problem is systemic.

 

The good news is that poor health is preventable through public health campaigns, personal action and societal awareness.

 

Big corporations are starting to lead the way. In the construction of its state-of-the-art tech campus, Apple installed adjustable desks that allow all employees to choose if they want to sit or stand while working at their computers.

 

If you don’t have an adjustable desk, try to find creative solutions that let you stand during some of the workday. At a minimum, get up and take a break to stand and stretch every once in a while.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Hackley Historic Site hosts Obituary Tour to explore deaths, autopsies, and funerals

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Hackley House

By Aaron Mace, Lakeshore Museum Center

 

How much do you know about the deaths that happened in the Hackley and Hume Houses?

 

The Hackley and Hume Historic Site (484 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, MI 49440) will host an Obituary Tour event on Friday, Oct. 26 and Saturday, Oct. 27 with two sessions each night running from 7-8pm and 8:30-9:30 pm. Visitors are invited to travel back in time as they tour the houses by candlelight and explore the funerals, autopsies, and deaths that occurred on site during the Victorian Era.

 

Attendees will also have the opportunity to experience a reenactment of Julia Hackley’s funeral service and become immersed in the practices and traditions of death and dying spanning from 1949-1994.

 

Erin Schmitz, the Historic Site’s Program Manager, explains, “With all the excitement of Halloween just around the corner, we’re looking forward to having the community come out and enjoy this event! It was a huge success last year, and we know our visitors will love learning more about the history surrounding the Hackley and Hume Houses.”

 

The candlelit tours are given twice each night, the first session running from 7-8pm and the second from 8:30-9:30 pm. Due to the elements involved, the event is recommended for adults only.

 

The Obituary Tour takes place inside the Hackley and Hume Houses. Admission to the event is $20 for non-members and $15 for members. Registration is required. To RSVP, contact Aaron Mace at aaron@lakeshoremuseum.org or call 231-724-5534.

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood weekend news you want to know

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WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

"Even the southeast side of Grand Rapids must bow to the beauty of a Michigan fall."*
          -Daniel Abbott, The Concrete

 

Trunks Full of Treats

 

Kentwood’s Fall Festival includes Trunk or Treat. (WKTV)

The City of Kentwood will host its annual Fall Festival this Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon.

 

Among the activities will be the annual Trunk or Treat when city and community organizations decorate their trunks and hand out candy to area children. Participants will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite decorated trunk. Also taking place will be face painting, hayrides, a bounce house, and games.

 

 

 

Go Hike, Get a Prize

 

Urban-thru-hiker Liz Thomas

If you head out on the trails this weekend, you might be lucky enough to score a surprise from Merrell, the shoe company. Merrell team members will be handing out swag bags and gift cards along The Ales Trail starting at Outside Coffee Co., 734 Wealthy St. SE, and making its way to several area breweries, ending at the New Holland Knickerbocker. The event is lead by urban-thru-hiker Liz Thomas who has been making her way through the local trails to help encourage residents to get out and hike.

 

 

Brewed Spirits

 

The phantom footprint preserved in the upstairs bar.

The Mitten Brewing Co. creates some of the area’s best brews and apparently those from the afterworld agree as they are still hanging around the former firehouse.  Since opening, staff and guests have reported paranormal activity in the building located at 527 Leonard St. NE. 

 

Co-owner Christ Andrus said he believes that whatever is haunting the former Engine House No. 9 is just playing pranks on people. Regardless if you believe or not, it makes for some great tall tales over some award-winning brew. (The Mitten’s West Coast Swing Amber took a Gold Medal at the 2018 Great American Beer Festival.)

 

 

Fun Fact:

5,062 Years

That is how old a bristlecone in California is, making it the oldest individual living tree. (For reference, wooly mamnoths died about 4,000 years. Want to learn more about trees? Then snatch up a copy of "The Hidden Life of Trees" by Peter Wohlleben, and then join the book discussion on Nov. 8 at the KDL Kelloggsville. The program will be lead by the City of Wyoming Tree Commission starting at 6:30 p.m..

KDL Book Talks: Courtney Summers’ ‘Sadie’ is a real page-turner

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“And it begins, as so many stories do, with a dead girl.” – The opening of “Sadie.”

 

Nineteen-year-old Sadie Hunter lives in one of those small, decaying little towns. Life has not been easy for her as she tries a normal life for her 13-year-old sister Mattie. However, when Mattie is found dead, Sadie’s world begins to crumble and she sets out to bring Mattie’s killer to justice and disappears.

 

When West McCray―a radio personality working on a segment about forgotten towns in America―overhears Sadie’s story at a local gas station, he becomes obsessed with finding the missing girl, starting a podcast to track the Sadie.

 

“Part of the book is told like a script from a podcast, like you are reading his narration and his interviews with the people Sadie has come in contact with, with his news producer, and things like that,” said KDL Youth Library Courtnei Moyses. “The other chapters are Sadie, what is actually happening in Sadie’s life.

 

“This was a book that I just couldn’t but down because it was written so well and it was such a thriller it kept me turning the page.”

 

Warning: the book does deal with very adult topics including sexual abuse and drugs.

 

For more great reads, visit kdl.org.

 

Explore the secret life of trees in KDL Kelloggsville upcoming book discussion

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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Trees will be the focus of the KDL Kelloggsville branch’s first-ever book talk Nov. 8 as the Wyoming Tree Commission will help lead the discussion on Peter Wohlleben’s groundbreaking book “The Hidden Life of Trees.”

 

“As we worked on increasing the tree cover in Wyoming, I came across this book and it is an amazing book,” said Tree Commissioner Jim Ward who will be leading the talk with KDL Kelloggsville’s Mike Zurgable.

 

Released in 2016, “The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate, Discoveries from a Secret World” is the first book in The Mysteries of Nature Trilogy by Wohlleben, a German forest ranger. The second book, “The Inner Life of Animals” was released last year and the third book, “The Secret Wisdom of Nature” has just been released.

 

In “Hidden Life of Trees,” Wohlleben shares his love of the woods and forests, discussing the process of life and death. He gives the trees human qualities as parents with children, communicating to each other, and supporting each other. Wohlleben draws from new discoveries, presenting the science behind the secret and previously unknown life of trees and their communication abilities. 

 

“He talks about things about the trees that no one ever knew,” Ward said. “How the trees take care of each other. That they actually make noises and they actually make a smell to identify who they are to other trees and to defend themselves against critters chewing or invading them.”

 

So impressed with Wohlleben’s book that when approached about hosting a book talk at the KDL Kelloggsvile branch, it was the book on the top of Ward’s list.

 

“We are so honored to be able to participate in the book talk,” Ward said. “It is an opportunity for us to promote what we are doing in the City of Wyoming and our efforts to increase the tree canopy.”

 

Ward said the talk will generate discussion on the value of trees and what they offer a city beyond just beautifying it, serving as a launch pad in the city’s continuing efforts of being a Tree City U.S.A.

 

Copies of “The Hidden Life of Trees” are available at the KDL Kelloggsville branch, located in the Kelloggsville High School, 4787 S. Division Ave.  The book discussion will be from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, at the KDL Kelloggsvile branch.

 

For more on the Tree Commission activities, click here. For more on KDL programs, visit kdl.org.

Special Halloween-themed organ concerts at the GRPM Oct. 19 & 20

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , ,

By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

 

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is hosting Halloween-themed Mighty Wurlitzer Organ Concerts with the silent film, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligarion Friday, Oct. 19 and Saturday, Oct. 20.

 

Internationally known silent film organist, Dennis Scott, will be playing the GRPM’s 1928 Mighty Wurlitzer Organ accompanied to the silent film, for a thrilling, family friendly event.

 

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari is a 1920 German thriller silent film. The plot twists when a group of friends visit the carnival and watch showman Dr. Caligari who uses hypnotism to control to his victims. When Dr. Caligari brings hypnotized Cesare out of a sarcophagus, Cesare predicts Alan will be dead by morning. When this predication comes true, Francis and Jane are left to find out answers. Considered one of the first chilling silent films, it has been praised by modern film critics and historians alike.

 

Dennis Scott first began accompanying silent films in the 1970s, when he started playing theatre pipe organs installed in pizza parlors in the Midwest and on the West Coast where he would accompany a couple of “two-reel” comedies every evening. His style has been compared to that of his legendary mentor, the late John Muri, who recorded numerous silent film scores for Blackhawk Films.

 

Suzanne Lloyd, granddaughter of the comic genius Harold Lloyd, dubbed Dennis the “Master of Magic Notes.” Scott is the house organist at Chicago’s historic Music Box Theatre, playing weekend intermissions, the annual Sing-Along Sound of Music, the annual Music Box Christmas Sing-Along, as well as several themed film festivals and special events.

 

Shows are being held at 7pm on Friday, Oct. 19 and at 2pm on Saturday, Oct. 20 in the Meijer Theater at the GRPM.

 

Tickets for individual concerts are $8 for Museum member adults, $4 for Museum member children, $10 for non-member adults and $5 for non-member children. Tickets are available by visiting the website here or by calling 616.929.1700.

 

The second concert of the series will feature Brett Valliant playing classic “pizza parlor” organ music including Maple Leaf Rag, In the Mood, Phantom of the Opera andRock Around the Clock on Friday, Nov. 16 at 7pm and Saturday, Nov. 17 at 2pm.

 

The third and final concert of the series will feature Lance Luce performing holiday songs, which includes favorites such as White Christmas, Silver Bells, and Let it Snow, on Friday, Dec. 21 at 7pm and Saturday, Dec. 22 at 2pm.

 

The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ

The Wurlitzer Company of North Tonawanda, New York, manufactured and shipped Opus #1836, a “3 manual special”, to the Stanley Theater of Jersey City, New Jersey, on Feb. 9, 1928. The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ spent two decades entertaining customers at the Roaring 20’s Pizza Parlor on 28th Street in Grand Rapids, before it was moved to its current location at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Tickets on sale TODAY for Weezer and the Pixies, March 20th at Van Andel Arena

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events,

 

By Hilaire Carpenter, SMG

Weezer to Hit the Road Again with the Pixies This Spring

Following a rapturously received summer tour, Weezer will be returning to the road with Pixies this spring for a run of highly anticipated North American arena dates. Produced by Live Nation, the 21-city tour will kick off March 8th in Louisville, KY and make stops in Montreal, St. Louis, Portland, and more, before wrapping April 12th in Las Vegas, NV. The tour comes to Grand Rapids at SMG-managed Van Andel Arena on Wednesday, March 20, 2019, at 7pm.

 

Tickets go on sale to the general public beginning Friday, October 19 at 10am. Tickets will be available at the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place® box offices, online at Ticketmaster.com, and charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. A purchase limit of eight (8) tickets will apply to all orders and prices can be found on Ticketmaster.com.

 

Today, Weezer revealed the first song from their forthcoming, long-anticipated record, The Black Album, set for release in 2019 via Crush Music/Atlantic Records. The song — entitled ‘Can’t Knock The Hustle’ — was produced by TV On The Radio’s Dave Sitek, with whom the band worked for the first time. The song premiered this morning via iHeartRadio at 8am EST, and follows the band’s smash hit cover of ‘Africa’ by Toto.

 

A video for the song, starring Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz as a rideshare driver taking the longest drive of his life, and produced by Jerry Media, is also up now. Click HERE to watch it. Also, check out HastaLuegoAdios.com for some classic Weezer fun.

 

Weezer are: Brian Bell (guitar/vocals), Rivers Cuomo (vocals/guitar), Scott Shriner (bass/vocals) and Pat Wilson (drums). For more information, connect with Weezer: Website // Facebook // Twitter // Instagram.

 

 

Diabetes and your mouth

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By Nicole Kooiker, DDS, Heart of the City Health Center

 

Q: Does diabetes really affect my teeth?

 

A: If you are one of the nearly 30 million people living in the U.S. with diabetes, you have special oral health needs. As a dentist practicing in Grand Rapids, I see first-hand how diabetes affects the mouth. It can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, and it can cause periodontitis, the most severe and common dental disease affecting those with diabetes. If left untreated, periodontitis may cause you to lose your teeth or have them pulled. It also reduces your body’s ability to regulate the level of sugar in the blood. High blood sugar can make diabetes harder to control and contribute to worsening gum disease.

 

Below are tips for keeping your mouth healthy while living with diabetes.

  • Control your blood sugar level.
  • Brush and floss daily.
  • If you wear dentures, remove and clean them daily.
  • Visit your dentist regularly; in fact, deep cleanings can help lower your HbA1c.
  • Watch for signs of gum disease, including red, swollen, tender, and /or bleeding gums when you brush or floss; bad breath; permanent teeth that are loose or moving away from each other; and gums that have pulled away from teeth.
  • Avoid smoking.
  • Tell your dentist and hygienist any time there is a change in your medication or the severity of your diabetes.
  • Postpone any non-emergency dental procedures if your blood sugar is not in control.

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

Arts & Eats 2018 is this weekend in Southwest Michigan

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Travel, Upcoming Events,
Photo supplied

By Michelle Frank, Arts and Eats

 

Learn about locally owned businesses and rural life as part of this weekend’s Arts and Eats fall tour.

 

More than 60 new and returning West Michigan artist studios, galleries, locally-owned eateries, farms, and farmers markets are participating in the 8th Annual Arts and Eats. This free, self-driving, back-roads tour is Saturday, Oct. 20th and Sunday, Oct. 21st throughout rural portions of Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Kalamazoo, and Van Buren counties. The tour map is online at ARTSandEATS.org.

 

Visit with local artisans in their studios, and see working farms featuring specialty food crops, fiber, and heritage animals. Should hunger strike, stop at one of the area’s local gems which serve food made with ingredients from area farms and producers.

 

Sites are generally open both days from 10am to 5pm. Food and drink places are open during normal business hours, and many will kick-off the tour the night before on Friday, Oct. 19th.

 

Photo supplied

Arts and Eats also hosts a “Best Drinks” contest. Patrons may taste and vote for their favorites in the categories of “Best Hot,” “Best Cold,” and “Most Unique” Drink at ARTSandEATS.org.

 

Arts and Eats raises awareness and appreciation of the region’s human and natural resources. The tour reminds us about the benefits of buying and consuming locally-grown foods and supporting Michigan artists as entrepreneurs. The tour is an opportunity to contribute to a sense of place and to support local economies.

The 22nd — and FINAL — Annual Grand Awards to honor theater excellence Oct. 21st at Fountain Street Church

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By WKTV Staff

 

A lot of talent has been fêted over the past two decades as the Annual Grand Awards have celebrated and rewarded inspired performances from top productions of a given year, from children’s theater to community and college musicals and plays. This event, comparable to the Tony Awards, is complete with performances, awards, and most importantly the handing out of scholarships to young students pursuing a career in theater.

 

After reveling 22 theater seasons with the Grand Awards, this will be the last year that it continues under its current format. Stay tuned in the coming years because something new and revamped will take its place highlighting the scholarship recipients.

 

The night will celebrate the scholarship recipients, enjoy some repeat performances from the 2017-2018 theater season, acknowledge stand-out performances from the year with awards and enjoy the company of some of Grand Rapids’ MOST talented all under one roof. 

 

This year’s Grand Awards ceremony will be held at Fountain Street Church (24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503) in downtown Grand Rapids on Sunday, Oct. 21 at 6pm. Following the ceremony, there will be an after party in the fellowship hall of Fountain Street Church complete with a DJ, food, drinks, and fun going until 11pm.

 

Tickets for the 22nd Annual Grand Awards can be purchased here using credit cards for $40 (general admission and seating). General admission tickets at the door will be cash only. All ticketing for students (with proper ID), nominees, and Grand Awards event performers will be handled at the door the night of the event (cash only):

  • Grand Awards event performer: $30
  • Students: $20
  • Nominees: $10 (must be an individual nominee)

And, the nominees are…

Outstanding Play

  • The Whale at Actors’ Theatre
  • A Few Good Men at Circle Theatre
  • Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • All the Way at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre
  • Fool for Love at Heritage Theatre

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Play

  • Jason Stamp as ‘Charlie’ in The Whale at Actors’ Theatre
  • Todd Lewis as ‘Lt. Col. Nathan Jessep’ in A Few Good Men at Circle Theatre
  • Spencer Tomlin as ‘Leo’ in Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • Jon March as ‘Lyndon Baines Johnson’ in All The Way at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Shane German as ‘Arnold Beckoff’ in Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Play

  • Isaac Thornson as ‘David’ in Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre
  • David Houseman as ‘Butch’ in Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • Jason Stamp as ‘Florence’ in Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • GM (Bud) Thompson as ‘Senator Richard Russel’ in All The Way at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Eddie Stephens as ‘Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’ in All The Way at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Play

  • Chelsea Pummill as ‘Lt. Cmdr. Joanne Galloway in A Few Good Men at Circle Theatre
  • Liz Brand as ‘Meg’ in Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • Brooke Bruce as ‘May’ in Fool for Love at Heritage Theatre
  • Lori Jacobs as ‘Olive’ in Olive and The Bitter Herbs at Jewish Theatre
  • Mary Brown as ‘Toinette’ in The Imaginary Invalid at Master Arts Theatre

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Play

  • Madeline Jones as ‘Ellie’ in The Whale at Actors’ Theatre
  • Emily Wetzel as ‘Audrey’ in Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • Margi Hankins as ‘Ladybird Johnson’ in All the Way at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Shavonne T. Coleman as ‘Wendy’ in Olive and The Bitter Herbs at Jewish Theatre
  • Bernice Houseward as ‘Mrs. Beckoff’ in Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Play

  • Isaac Thornson as ‘David’ as Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre
  • David Houseman as ‘Butch’ in Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • Jason Stamp as ‘Florence’ in Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • GM (Bud) Thompson as ‘Senator Richard Russel’ in All The Way at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Eddie Stephens as ‘Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’ in All The Way at Grand Rapids Civc Theatre

Outstanding Direction of a Play

  • Fred Sebulske for The Whale at Actors’ Theatre
  • Tom Kaechele for Leading Ladies at Circle Theatre
  • Bruce Tinker for All the Way at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Rachel Finan for Fool for Love at Heritage Theatre
  • Michelle Urbane for Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre

Outstanding Musical

  • If/Then at Actors’ Theatre
  • Fun Home at Circle Theatre
  • Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • On the Town at Circle Theatre

Outstanding Actor in a Musical

  • Nathaniel Beals as ‘Narrator’ in Passing Strange at Actors’ Theatre
  • Jason Morrison as ‘Bruce’ in Fun Home at Circle Theatre
  • Matt Tepper as ‘The Baker’ in Into the Woods at Circle Theatre
  • Scott Mellema as ‘Shrek’ in Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Jason Morrison as ‘Daddy Warbucks’ in Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical

  • David Houseman as ‘Lucas’ in If/Then at Actors’ Theatre
  • Darius Tq Colquitt as ‘Mr. Franklin’/’Joop’/’Mr. Venus’ in Passing Strange at Actors’ Theatre
  • Charles Hutchins as ‘Alfred P Doolittle’ in My Fair Lady at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Titus Hankins as ‘Donkey’ in Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Kyle Cain as ‘Lord Farquaad’ in Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Cullen Dyk as ‘Pinocchio’ in Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Musical

  • Molly Jones as ‘Elizabeth’ in If/Then at Actors’ Theatre
  • Evangelie Vander Ark as ‘Small Alison’ in Fun Home at Circle Theatre
  • Kelly Carey as ‘The Witch’ in Into the Woods at Circle Theatre
  • Carly Uthoff as ‘Princess Fiona’ in Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Alyssa Bauer as ‘Eliza Doolittle’ in My Fair Lady at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical

  • Caitlin Cusack as ‘Helen’ in Fun Home at Circle Theatre
  • Madeline Jones as ‘Medium Alison’ in Fun Home at Circle Theatre
  • Morgan Anding as ‘Sugar Plum Fairy’/’Gingy’ in Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Kira Alsum as ‘Grace’ in Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Darla Carrier as ‘Madame Dilly’/’Little Old Lady’/’Club Singer’ in On the Town at Circle Theatre

Outstanding Direction of a Musical

  • Jolene Frankey for Fun Home at Circle Theatre
  • Todd Avery for Into the Woods at Circle Theatre
  • Bruce Tinker for Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Allyson Paris for Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Penelope Notter for On the Town at Circle Theatre

Outstanding Choreography

  • Torrey Thomas for Passing Strange at Actors’ Theatre
  • Torrey Thomas for Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Melissa Sefton for Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Erin Kacos for My Fair Lady at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • William Schutte for On the Town at Circle Theatre

Outstanding Musical Direction

  • Scott Patrick Bell for If/Then at Actors’ Theatre
  • Brendan Hollins for Into the Woods at Circle Theatre
  • Charles Hutchins for Shrek at Grand Rapids Civc Theatre
  • Charles Hutchins for Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Wright McCargar for My Fair Lady at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding Sound Design

  • Sam Johnson for Into the Woods at Circle Theatre
  • Sam Johnson for Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Sam Johnson for Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Steven Nardin for Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre
  • Sam Johnson for My Fair Lady at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding Lighting Design

  • Catherine Marlett-Dreher for Fun Home at Circle Theatre
  • Catherine Marlett-Dreher for Into the Woods at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Catherine Marlett-Dreher for Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Catherine Marlett-Dreher for Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre
  • Catherine Marlett-Dreher for Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding Costume Design

  • Bill Dunckel & Kelly Lucas for On the Town at Circle Theatre
  • Robert Fowle for Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Robert Fowle for Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Karen Larabel for The Book of Job at Master Arts Theatre
  • Robert Fowle for My Fair Lady at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding Scenic Design

  • Don Wilson for Into the Woods at Circle Theatre
  • David Len for Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Christian Poquette for Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre
  • David Len for All the Way at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • David Len for My Fair Lady at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • David Len for Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

For Outstanding Properties Design

  • Michael Wilson for Shrek at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Jennifer Smith for A Few Good Men at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Michael Wilson for Annie at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Michael Wilson for My Fair Lady at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Camille Hickade for Torch Song Trilogy Act III: Widows and Children First at Jewish Theatre

Outstanding Theatre for Young Audiences

  • Seussical The Musical at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • Akeelah and the Bee at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
  • School of Rock at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre

Outstanding College Production

  • Equivocation at Aquinas
  • Rhinoceros at Aquinas
  • A Year with Frog & Toad at Aquinas
  • Detroit ’67 at GRCC
  • Oklahoma at GVSU

Outstanding Lead Actor in a College Production

  • Casey Huls as ‘Curly’ in Oklahoma at Grand Valley State University
  • Brock Gabbert as ‘Berenger’ in Rhinoceros at Aquinas
  • Kaeleb Cogswell as ‘Toad’ in A Year with Frog & Toad at Aquinas
  • Michael Francis as ‘Lank’ in Detroit ’67 at GRCC
  • David Dekens as ‘Warren’ in This is Our Youth at GRCC

Outstanding Lead Actress in a College Production

  • Bryanna Lee as ‘Minnie’ in The Terrible Girls at Aquinas
  • Trisha Bond as ‘Penelope Sycamore’ in You Can’t Take it With You at Cornerstone University
  • Marqea Lee as ‘Chelle’ in Detroit ’67 at GRCC
  • Lindsey Normington as ‘Sally Bowles’ in Cabaret at GVSU
  • Alyssa Veldman as ‘Ado Annie Carnes’ in Oklahoma at GVSU

For Outstanding Direction of a College Production

  • Randy Wyatt for Rhinoceros, at Aquinas
  • Kathy Gibson for A Year with Frog & Toad, at Aquinas
  • Sammy A. Publes for Detroit ’67, at GRCC
  • Carrie McNulty for This is Our Youth, at GRCC
  • Christopher Carter for Oklahoma, at GVSU

One weekend: Three amazing women authors! Oct. 20-22

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Travel, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

By Anne Stanton, National Writers Series

 

The National Writers Series of Traverse City, a pre-eminent year-round book festival, is excited to announce its Amazing Women’s Weekend, Oct. 20-22. Coming up are:

  • Amy Goldstein, whose book Janesville: An American Story tells the tale of a Wisconsin town’s resiliency at a time of cataclysmic economic stress. It hit the 2017 best book lists of the Wall Street Journal, NPR, Business Insider, and The Economist.
  • Tayari Jones, author of An American Marriage, an instant New York Times bestselling novel and a top book pick by both Oprah and former President Barack Obama.
  • Alice Walker, the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for her novel, The Color Purple. This legendary author will be here to talk about her new book of poetry.

Interlochen Public Radio is producing the show.

 

SEASON TICKETS

  • All events take place at the City Opera House, downtown Traverse City
  • 6pm – Reception with cash bar, live music, and Morsels
  • 7pm – The author/guest host interview is followed by a Q and A and book signing.
  • Purchase tickets online at cityoperahouse.org, calling 231-941-8082, ext. 201, or in-person at The City Opera House. Ticket fees vary by method of purchase.

An Evening with Amy Goldstein  

Janesville: An American Story  

Oct. 20, 2018

Amy Goldstein

TICKETS

  • $15 – Reserved
  • $25 – Premium Reserved
  • $5 – Students (K-12 and College)

How does a heartland city pick itself up after the oldest General Motors plant in the country is shuttered during the Great Recession of 2008?

 

The plant, located in Janesville, Wisconsin, is also home to U.S. Representative Paul Ryan. Using the city as a microcosm of a larger national struggle, Goldstein brings fresh insights and possibilities to the discouraging story of the struggles of the working classes.

 

Goldstein has been a staff writer for 30 years at The Washington Post, where much of her work has focused on social policy. Among her many awards, she shared the 2002 Pulitzer Prize for national reporting. She has been a fellow at Harvard University at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism and the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study. Janesville: An American Story is her first book. She lives in Washington, DC.

 

Guest host: Shannon Henry Kleiber, a producer for To the Best of Our Knowledge, a public radio show from Wisconsin Public Radio and PRX. She is a seven-year veteran of The Washington Post, where she wrote for just about every section of the paper. Shannon is the author of The Dinner Club: How the Masters of the Internet Universe Rode the Rise and Fall of the Greatest Boom in History and On My Honor: Real Life Lessons From America’s First Girl Scout.  Shannon lives in Madison, Wisconsin.

An Evening with Tayari Jones  

An American Marriage  

Oct. 21, 2018

Tayari Jones

TICKETS

  • $15 – Reserved
  • $25 – Premium Reserved
  • $5 – Students (K-12 and College)

Tayari Jones’s new novel, An American Marriage, tells the compelling story of a couple at the crossroads of love and injustice. An instant New York Times bestseller and a 2018 Oprah’s Book Club selection, it tells of newlyweds Celestial and Roy arriving in Atlanta to start their lives together. They appear to be on a straight track to success in their respective careers and domestic bliss. But all their hard work and right decisions are put on hold when Roy, a young executive, is found guilty of rape, a crime both he and Celeste know he did not commit. He is sentenced to twelve years of prison, forcing the couple to reconcile their relationship with a broken criminal justice system.

 

The author of four novels including The Silver Sparrow, Jones’s books exhibit a deep understanding of human struggles large and small. Her powers of observation will make this a night of insight and inspiration that is not to be missed.

 

Guest host, Aaron Stander has worked in the literary vineyards for more than five decades. He has been a college English professor, educational consultant, and teacher trainer. He has published numerous articles, stories, reviews, and ten crime novels. Aaron is also the host/producer of Interlochen Public Radio’s longstanding program, Michigan Writers on the Air.

An Evening with Alice Walker  

Arrow Out of the Heart  

Oct. 22, 2018

TICKETS

  • $30 – Reserved
  • $40 – Premium Reserved
  • $5 – Students (K-12 and College)

While Walker hardly requires an introduction, her genius bears repeating. One of America’s most cherished writers, she has brought us novels, poems, and nonfiction works of the utmost artistic and social importance. In 1983 Walker received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for her novel The Color Purple, becoming the first African-American woman to receive the honor. The book has since been adapted into an Academy-Award nominated film and a Broadway musical.

 

Her staggering capacity for truth and warmth feature centrally in her work. Her latest book of collected poetry, Arrow Out of the Heart, is no exception. Presented in both English and Spanish and comprising almost 70 poems, each lush and lucid word brims with passion and power. The collection proves, once again, the tendency of Walker’s wisdom to sear into readers’ hearts, leaving its mark far beyond the last page.

 

Guest host Rochelle Riley, who always works with two phones, is a columnist for the Detroit Free Press, where she has been a leading voice for children, education, competent government and race since 2000. She is the author of The Burden: African Americans and the Enduring Impact of Slavery (Wayne State University Press, 2018). She makes frequent television and radio appearances, including on National Public Radio and local television. She has won numerous national, state and local honors, including a National Headliner Award for local column writing.

About the National Writers Series

The Writers Series of Traverse City (NWS) is a nonprofit dedicated to holding great conversations with today’s best authors and building the writing and reading skills of youth. NWS believes in the power of storytelling to enrich and transform lives and whole communities.  NWS is made possible by our generous donors, as well as our major sponsors Cordia and West Shore Bank. We are also generously supported by grantors Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts.

 

Each NWS event is taped and broadcast to a wide and enthusiastic audience by Land Information Access Association’s Community Media Center and Interlochen Public Radio.

 

For more information on the National Writers Series, visit www.nationalwritersseries.org, contact NWS Executive Director Anne Stanton, or call the National Writers Series at (231) 631-1551.

Indie Fest 18: Fabulous food, mix of music & spirits, art, on Oct. 20th

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , , , , , ,

By West Michigan Tourist Association

 

The Mendel Center delivers a new take on the local music festival scene by bringing the party indoors. Indie Fest 18 celebrates original music, local beers, wines, and art on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 4–10pm.

 

The festival is anchored by three, nationally touring bands – Switchback, The Accidentals, and The Hunts. Each band will perform a full, 90-minute concert. Attendees can also enjoy mouthwatering culinary variety from some of the area’s favorite food trucks, an inviting selection of Michigan craft beers and local wines, and creations on display and for sale from up to 20 local artists!

The schedule includes:

Switchback

Switchback – 4pm
As seen on PBS, SWITCHBACK’s music is energetic, soulful, and versatile, combining elements of Americana, country, rock, and Celtic. Music Connection Magazine said: “The words ‘American Roots & Celtic Soul’ only begin to describe this unusual act, whose vocal prowess is as pure as it is unique. There is no denying the stunning vocal blends that are achieved by this duo.”

The Accidentals

The Accidentals – 6pm
THE ACCIDENTALS have affirmed their place among contemporary music’s most original and adventurous new bands. This Michigan-based band has crafted a genre all their own, fueled by their uniquely limitless approach to musicality and songcraft. “Musically, their songs sift together folk, bluegrass, alt-rock, and even classical music.” 10 Artists to Watch in 2017 – Yahoo Music.

The Hunts

The Hunts – 8pm
Known for their harmony-laced take on alt-folk, THE HUNTS are seven siblings from Chesapeake, Virginia, who’ve been playing music together almost their entire lives. That unified approach infuses their music with an irresistible richness of spirit. Their songs reveal their sophisticated sense of melody and undeniably dreamy innocence while capturing heartache and wonder with a wide-eyed but wistful elegance.

Indie Fest tickets are available at www.TheMendelCenter.com, through the box office at (269) 927-8700, option 1, and at the door. Indie Fest 18 is sponsored by swmichigan.org, 98.3 The Coast, and The Livery.

The Mendel Center is located on the Lake Michigan College campus at 2755 E. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor, Michigan, one mile east of I-94 (Exit 30) and one mile west of the US 31 Bypass (exit 24).

On the shelf: ‘Infection: The Uninvited Universe’ by Gerald Callahan, Ph.D.

Books, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , ,

By Lisa Boss, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch

 

Ever wonder about all those anti-bacterial products that are everywhere now? How many microbes are out there anyways? If you are germ-phobic, you might be surprised (unpleasantly!) by Callahan’s book. I had not realized the extent to which microbes inhabit our bodies. According to the author, 90% of the cells in our bodies are not human cells, they are microbial!

 

“Because human cells, like those in our blood and skin and livers and hearts, are about one hundred to one thousand times larger than bacterial cells—by mass and volume—people appear mostly human. But they aren’t.” Who knew!

 

If you enjoy scientific writing for the non-scientist, Gerald Callahan, Ph.D., has an appointment in both pathology and English at Colorado State University. Which means he knows what he’s talking about, and he also presents it in an interesting way, peppered with colorful anecdotes. He covers many topics in this slim volume: one surprising chapter reviews the link between schizophrenia and infection. The really interesting part is his description of the different ways in which infections are linked to changes in thinking and behavior that will benefit the microbe.

 

“Toxoplasma gondii is a one-celled parasite found in several mammals, including humans.  But only inside of cats, most often domestic house cats, does T. gondii complete its life cycle and create newly infectious parasites to unleash on the rest of the world. T. gondii infects a high proportion of people with schizophrenia. The significance of that isn’t entirely clear, but it is clear that T. gondii infections can change the way mammals think, even the ways humans think.”

 

You’ll have to read the book to find out what happens to rats infected with T. gondii, and how this ties in with schizophrenia.

 

Knowing trees

Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Education, Kids Activities, Our Cities, ,
Photo courtesy of Michigan State Extension

By Bill Cook, Michigan State University Extension 

 

In Michigan’s wildland forests, there are about 75-85 tree species, depending upon where the line is drawn between a tree and a shrub. The number of species significantly increases when the urban/residential trees and ornamental varieties are counted.

 

Trees are good ecological indicators of site productivity and ecological conditions. Trees are the dominant life form of forest systems. They pretty much determine what else grows on the site and which wildlife species will inhabit a particular place.

 

Knowing the ecological requirements and implications of trees provides a more satisfying forest visit. Tree identification is just the first step. However, it’s the forest dynamics that become more interesting, rather quickly. It takes some time and study to learn to read the forest like a forester.

 

For northern Michigan, the Upper Peninsula Tree Identification website is a good tool. The image sets have been recently updated to reflect the changes in computer technology since the website was first introduced in the late 1990s.

 

UPTREEID also has an extensive forest health section tied to particular tree species.

 

There are about a dozen characteristics available to help identify trees. Learning which subset of characteristics to use for a particular tree is where practice and skill are needed. Some characteristics are seasonal, such as leaves, fruits and flowers. Most others are more year-round, such as twig and branching patterns, buds, bud scars, bark, tree form, site and tree associates.

 

For some trees, paper birch for instance, most people only need to look at the white, peeling bark. Although, sometimes pale versions of quaking aspen have been mistaken for paper birch. Trees with acorns are one of several oaks. Most of our conifers carry needles year-round, but not all.

 

Many people refer to all conifers as pines when, actually, most conifers are not pines, especially in the U.P. Pines make up about 44 percent of the conifer volume in Michigan (14 percent of total tree volume) and about 25 percent in the U.P. (11 percent of the total). Northern white-cedar is the most common conifer in Michigan. It’s not a pine! Neither are hemlocks, spruces, firs, tamaracks or larches. Michigan is mostly a hardwood state.

 

Because there are only about a dozen common conifers (only four are pines) in the forest, conifer ID is fairly easy. It’s a good place to begin in order to build some confidence and skill.

 

Another good tactic for beginners is learning the ten most common tree species first: sugar maple, red maple, white-cedar, red pine, white pine, northern red oak, quaking aspen, bigtooth aspen, black cherry and hemlock. Once these trees are known, comparing them to unknown species will often make the identification process move quicker.

 

For about five months, leaves are good tree ID characteristics. However, beware of the variability within a particular species. Size, shape, color and other features can change from one part of a tree, or among trees of the same species, due to site conditions and tree health.

 

Using leaves to confirm a species ID allows an observer to more easily become familiar with year-round ID characteristics, such as bark, buds, branching patterns, etc. Once a person becomes proficient at tree ID, then, like learning to read, a whole world of science, history and ecology opens up.

 

Our wild land forests have been shaped by historical practices, especially the over-harvesting and burning of a hundred years ago. That period set the stage for much of what we see today, as the forests have recovered. Forest management has done much to bring the forest resource to conditions that are now able to supply a wide range of goods and services.

 

Forests are an essential resource for human survival. Their renewable nature provides a large measure of potential for human benefit, if properly cared for. Learning to identify some of the pieces goes a long way to a deeper understanding of the ever-changing forest puzzle.

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

3 Activities to keep kids active this fall

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, ,
Courtesy Cherry Health

By Kelsey VanderLaan, RN, Heart of the City Health Center Pediatrics

 

Did you know about 1 in 5 children in the United States has obesity? Children who are overweight are more likely to have serious health problems. Our goal as health care providers and team members is to encourage children to be more physical active and maintain a healthy weight. One way to help prevent obesity is being physically active. As it gets colder outside, it can be harder to keep children active. Here are three ways to keep children active in the cooler weather:

  1. Create an indoor obstacle course: You don’t need anything special to do this — a chair, box, couch cushions or no objects at all. Here are some ideas: hop on one foot, run around a chair, do somersaults, squats, touch toes, jump between or over couch cushions, carry a box, etc. Kids seem to like to race to get things done. Time them and have them try to beat their own time.
  2. Take a walk: Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t go outside. Just bundle up! Check out this website for a list of local trails. You could also take a walk through your neighborhood. Parents, this is also a great opportunity for some one-on-one time with your child.
  3. Go to the park: There are a lot of parks in our community. Not all of them have play equipment, but you could bring a ball or Frisbee to play with. In the winter, some of these parks may have sledding areas. Kids can make snowmen, forts and snow angels too.

Here are even a few more options: Dancing, swimming lessons, indoor sports teams, consider activities through schools in your area, and your local YMCA has great fitness options and activities for kids and adults in the cooler months. There are options for scholarships and reduced prices as well.

 

References:

 

Agri-tourism: Farms provide some fall fun in West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Agriculture and tourism are Michigan’s top two economic drivers. Agri-tourism provides a way for farmers to diversify their offerings, helping to protect against challenging weather conditions and market fluctuations. 

 

Michigan Agri-tourism is a non-profit association that supports the agri-tourism through promotion, education, advocacy, problem resolution and networking. The goal is to keep family farms sustainable, support local economic growth and provide rich and unique experiences for visitors to make lasting memories. 

 

Friske’s Farm Market

Residents can being their journey by visiting local farmer markets, roadside stands, cider mills, u-pick farms, corn mazes, petting farms, ranches, educational farms, farm stays, wineries and more throughout West Michigan. 

 

In fact, one of the most well-known Grand Rapids orchards is Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery, 3142 4 Mile Rd. NE, which has been in operation for more than 100 years. Currently, Robinette’s is making fresh cider using a blend of apples with the combination changing as the season progresses. However the cider is only the starting point as the orchard provides baked goods, and a selection of wines and ciders that are all Michigan-made and available for sampling in the winery.

 

Or make it a day trip adventure by heading north to Ellsworth where you will find Friske’s Farm Market, 10743 US-31. There you can treat your sweet tooth to one of their famous donuts, a piece of Grandma Friske’s pie or MOOMer’s Ice Cream which is made in Michigan and has been voted number one in America. There is a variety of meal selections as well from house-smoked pulled pork sandwiches to handcrafted specialty pizzas.

 

Chocolate-caramel-covered apples from Chocolates byGrimaldi.

If Ellsworth is a little to far north to roam, then head to Williamsburg, where you will find Farmer White’s, 11373 US-31 which is considered a piece of Northern Michigan heritage. The market is operated by Mary Cooper’s family for three generations offering an array of fresh fruit and vegetables, jams, jellies, and pieces all made from secret family recipes to customers since 1958. There also is a selection of signature baking mixes, dried fruits, handcrafted gifts and more.

 

Of course nothing says fall more than a caramel apple and Grand Haven’s Chocolates by Grimaldi, 219 N. Seventh St., will be offering its limited edition chocolate caramel apples that start with hand-picked apples from local orchards that are drenched in buttery caramel and coated with chocolate and then topped off with nuts or other toppings.

 

Tempted? Find more such temptations in the West Michigan Tourist Association’s Travel Guide and Lighthouse Map which are available at the WKTV station or check out the guides online at WMTA.org. 

Of ghosts and beers: The Mitten Brewing Co. has some tales to share

3-bottom, Beer, Citizen Journalism, , , , , ,

By Zac Sgro

WKTV Intern

 

What is it about ghost stories that makes them so compelling? Is it the spine chilling effect, the adrenaline, or maybe it’s an inherent love for the supernatural and anything that goes bump in the night? Whether you believe them or not, one thing is clear, there are some things that just can’t be logically explained. Whatever the case may be for the staff at The Mitten Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids, ghost stories have become something a little too real at times.

 

“The exact moment at the ghost footprint the light (points) above started flickering,” said Drew Vanhartsvelt, The Mitten Co. sale representative. “Not like weird current issues, straight up the conjuring movie flickering.”

 

The building on 527 Leonard St. NW, which is now The Mitten Brewing Company, used to be Engine House Number Nine and housed four to six firemen at a time operating for nearly a century before it was decommissioned in 1966. After serving as an office building and apartment complex for 46 years, The Mitten Brewing co-owners Chris Andrus and Max Trierweiler acquired the building in 2012. Soon after their purchase of the property suspicions began to arise that something was amiss.

 

The ghostly footprint preserved in the upstairs bar at The Mitten Brewing Co.

“Well my business partner Max and I did most of the renovations and demolitions ourselves,” Andrus said. “We were here every day for the better part of nine months, and right away we started to see things that weren’t right, shadows moving, and noises at night.”

 

Shortly after that night, following a last-one-out first-one-in shift, Andrus noticed what would become the first of many odd occurrences at the bar. A set of footprints left in the mop water from earlier, roughly the size of a child’s, even more troubling was the fact that Andrus stated the prints lead to a wall and just disappeared. Once the first Facebook post was made the story blew up and the brewery became a huge attraction for those who wished to experience the supernatural or even just hear the stories of what might be in that old firehouse.

 

In the years since, numerous accounts of paranormal activity have been reported by customers and staff alike from a single speaker having music to a light that flickers over the bar where one of the mysteries footprints has been preserved. The Grand Rapids Ghost Hunters has investigated the brewery confirming what the owners and staff already knew.

 

The original lockers of Engine House No. 9, now The Mitten Brewing Co.

“Whatever it is, I believe is playing pranks on us,” Andrus said. “It is appearing oneway to one and appearing another way to someone else. And maybe there are multiple entities here, an old man, a tiny child, I’m not sure. All I know is that I know this building backwards and forwards, I’ve been here since the beginning and I have found something that is not right and on more than a few occasions the being here has made its present felt.”

 

Interestingly, there is no beer named after the ghosts, however Andrus did point out that there is one paying homage to the last to horses to serve at the fire house, Ned and George. That oatmeal stout might just be a good choice to swap a few stories over, whether they be haunted tales or not.

Cat of the week: Ruger

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Pets/Animals, , , , , , ,

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

 

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing

 

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

 

In August of 2018, Dr. Jen received an email from a woman who came across this gorgeous gray and buff boy (all boy, if ya know what I mean) hanging around her workplace. She took him in to her vet to have him looked over and discovered, besides the obvious frayed ear tips, greasy stud tail and enlarged jowls, that he suffered from some significant dental issues and was FIV+. So she reached out to us to see if we could help him, offering to drive him up to the vet clinic in Wyoming and pay for his additional medical costs; we didn’t even need to see the picture of his long and lanky body sprawled out on a blanket, or gaze upon his goofy grin to know that he belonged with us at Big Sid’s.

 

Dr. Jen set to work on addressing his multitude of medical needs AFTER smooching his adorable face: neutering him, treating him for fleas, tending to a nasty nail fracture/toe infection, and extracting the broken roots of his upper canines (his upper incisors were already missing, more than likely due to the same trauma that snapped his fangs) along with several other rotten teeth. Once all was said and done, Ruger (born in early 2015) looked—and smelled—absolutely remarkable, and a few days later he bopped on down to our sanctuary with a smirk plastered on his face that elicited the same from every volunteer who crossed his path.

 

Our terrific tabby proved to be one of the happiest little campers around after settling and making himself at home; the benefits of indoor life seem to suit him immensely. Of course he appears to be smiling given his lack of choppers, but the more time Ruger spends in our care the more you can truly see how giddy he is, the glee just bubbling up inside of him, so the smile he boldly wears on his face does actually reflect how he feels with every fiber of his fabulous being.

 

Ruger still is a bit skittish when there is a lot of commotion going on, so a home with noisy dogs or boisterous kids may be too much for him, but he absolutely loves the company of the other cats, Craig in particular, so placing him in a home with another feline friend is a must. And he is a lover, not a biter (that would be quite difficult in his case), so the risk of viral transmission is minimal. He isn’t one to constantly seek out attention but will hand it over readily when you want some one-on-one kitty-time; he will also ask for your hand to bestow upon his the best belly rubs you can offer. Simply put, he is content to just BE a cat—an indoor, spoiled cat but a chill, laid-back cat.

 

It is a shame that his ears look like someone took pinking shears to them, and it upsets us that his adorable facial features came about due to the fact his health was neglected, but we choose to see the silver lining in instances like this, to look at the positive versus focusing on the negative. Our beautiful boy is emotionally none the worse for wear and he sports his unique physical traits with the pride of a survivor. Ruger is pawsitively one of the coolest cats around, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to make him your very own!

More about Ruger:

  • Large
  • Domestic Short Hair (Buff/Tan/Fawn/Gray/Blue/Silver Tabby (Tiger Striped))
  • Adult
  • Male
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Not declawed
  • Good in a home with other cats
  • FIV+

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

 

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

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

 

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.

 

 

School News Network: Space to breathe, move and reflect

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education,
Margie Muñoz practices yoga with eighth-graders Gio Mendoza, Dave Hill, and Shawn McClerkin

By Bridie Bereza

School News Network

 

Margie Muñoz led three eighth-graders through the halls of the middle school, down a winding staircase and into a windowless basement classroom. Once inside, she flipped open her laptop and started some relaxing music as students Dave Hill, Shawn McClerkin and Gio Mendoza kicked off flip-flops and tennis shoes and took a seat on a yoga mat.

 

After a quick “check-in,” during which two of the boys shared that they were feeling “cloudy” due to upcoming tests and other worries, Muñoz began.

 

“Breathe in… and out. In… and out. Child’s pose… down dog.”

 

Over the next 40 minutes, Dave, Shawn and Gio followed along as Muñoz led them through a series of yoga poses, breathing exercises and a meditation. Shawn requested a pose called “Warrior 1,” and at some point Dave rattled off the sequence along with her.

 

“Up dog, down dog, left foot forward. Warrior 1, warrior 2, plank and hold… ”

 

This is Room 301, “the dungeon,” Muñoz jokes. Last year it housed the Restorative Thinking Center, a place for students with behavioral challenges to regroup. When the center moved to a bright upstairs room, Muñoz, community school coordinator for Kent School Services Network, saw potential in the dimly-lit space. Now it’s a yoga studio.

 

Eighth-graders Gio Mendoza and Dave Hill relax during a meditation

A Tranquil Space

 

Muñoz says she has long been interested in the effects of yoga and meditation on children. She introduced the concept at her previous job as a direct care counselor at D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s home. There, she said, she saw how it relaxed some of the children in her care.

 

“Negative behaviors were learned somewhere and positive, calming behaviors can be learned as well.” — Godwin Heights Middle School Principal Bradley Tarrance

 

Muñoz has practiced yoga on and off for about 10 years, and every day for the past two years. When the Grand Rapids studio where she practices offered a lesson on how to use yoga and meditation with children, she jumped at the opportunity. Then, with the support of Principal Bradley Tarrance, she got to work transforming the room, decorating the space and reaching out to friends from the yoga studio, who donated nine mats.

 

“Kids want that space and want to be able to do that in the middle of their day,” she said. “It’s pretty cool to be able to offer that.”

 

The principal agrees.

 

“I was ecstatic when Margie brought up yoga to help our children with reflection techniques and calming techniques,” said Tarrance, who had seen success after implementing something similar at a school in Texas. “I love that Margie can share her love and the benefits of yoga with our children.”

 

Dave Hill moves into a yoga pose

Training the Brain

Currently, she targets students with challenges in the classroom or who are experiencing conflict with their peers. Sometimes asking students to do yoga together for a week, she said, can help them rebuild relationships.

 

Muñoz said yoga helps students reconnect with the frontal lobe, the part of the brain responsible for, among other things, judgment and self-control.

 

These days, Muñoz keeps a spare set of clothing in her office to quickly change from professional attire into yoga gear. She said she uses the space with students daily, sometimes multiple times a day.

 

“Kids don’t like to get in trouble,” she said. “It’s hard for them to sit in the classroom for seven hours. They want to do well in school; they just don’t have that control because they’re developing, and that’s where they are in that development.”

 

Giving them a little time and space to breathe, move and reflect, she said, can be just what they need to return to class and focus on learning.

 

“When we realize as educators that everything is learned, we have to be able to rethink how we address behavior,” Tarrance said, “Negative behaviors were learned somewhere and positive, calming behaviors can be learned as well.”

 

Muñoz is still tweaking what use of the room will look like, long-term. Many students have shown an interest in participating, she said. One thing is certain: the students who currently practice in the space approve.

 

“I like that it can keep you relaxed when you’re having a rough day,” Dave said. It was only his second session, but he said he was already looking forward to the next one.

 

Shawn agreed.

 

“Whenever you have a bad day, you can just come down here, let it out, and then you can go back to class and you don’t have to think about it.”

 

Check out School News Network for more stories about students, schools, and faculty in West Michigan.

Salvation Army Kroc Center hosts popular Monster Mash

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By Jon Shaner

Salvation Army

 

The Salvation Army Kroc Center is holding its sixth-annual “Monster Mash” Halloween event on Friday, Oct. 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. 

 

This free event will feature “trunk-or-treating” in the Kroc’s east parking lot, giving families a fun and safe alternative to trick-or-treating in their own neighborhoods. Multiple Kroc Center and other Salvation Army groups will be distributing candy and other information, along with other local businesses. 

 

Last year’s Monster Mash attracted more than 2,000 people. In addition to the trunk-or-treating, concessions will be for sale (cash only, please), along with a Kroc members-only play area and other family activities. There is still time for businesses or community organizations to sign up; interested groups should contact Jon Shaner at jon_shaner@usc.salvationarmy.org before Monday, Oct. 22. 

 

“Monster Mash is one of our biggest events of the year,” said Captain Bill Brutto, senior officer for The Salvation Army Kroc Center. “We love giving families the opportunity to enjoy time together in a fun and safe environment. I’m not sure who gets more excited, the kids or our staff!” 

 

The event will be cancelled in the event of heavy rain or lightning. Visit GrKrocCenter.org or call 616-588-7200 for more information. 

On the shelf: ‘Creepers’ by David Morrell

Books, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , , , ,

By Megan Andres, Grand Rapids Public Library, Ottawa Hills Branch

 

Once, a long time ago, the Paragon Hotel was THE place to be seen. Outfitted with all of the new technology of the day and situated in Asbury Park, New Jersey, the Paragon hosted celebrities and common folk alike. Famous chefs would spend hours preparing amazing room service and dining options. Morgan Carlisle, the owner of the Paragon, made sure that his place was the only place to be. And for a small group of Creepers, the abandoned hotel is still very much a site to see.

 

Professor Robert Conklin leads a group of students into the Paragon Hotel to explore its wastes. No one knows what really happened within its dank halls. Morgan Carlisle himself vanished within its walls. The Creepers, as they call themselves, allow one reporter to follow them into the building in an attempt to teach the world about “creeping” and why it shouldn’t be illegal. Being able to investigate abandoned buildings and the people who once lived inside them is not only a thrill but also an educational experience. Frank Balenger insists he will be fair and true in detailing the story. It’s a pity he’s not all he seems.

 

Morrell takes an underworld of adventure and twists it. The Paragon Hotel does not live up to its name at all. And the events that quickly unfold would scare even the staid horror fan. Voices and visions within the hotel’s walls soon entrap his heroes and the life and death struggle of the group soon takes over the educational experience.

 

Creepers is a truly original horror story. It takes a topic that could be something any of us would love to do and reminding us that sometimes staying home might just be the best choice. My copy of Creepers was a gift from my brother, and I loved the story and characters. Morrell even drew up another horror plot for his hero Frank Balenger, Scavengers. If you enjoy a good scare in the comfort of your own home, pick up a copy of Creepers today. Just make sure you read it with the lights on . . .

 

 

Get your groove back

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Don’t allow sexual issues sideline you from the pleasures of life. (For Spectrum Health Beat)

By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum Health Beat

 

Sexual health is a part of our overall health, and it impacts a woman’s (and a man’s) sense of self and feeling of being healthy.

 

Women who suffer from depression or anxiety are more likely to have sexual health concerns, and women with sexual health concerns are more likely to have depression and anxiety. It’s a vicious cycle—one that can be frustrating and difficult to break.

 

Chronic health issues or chronic health diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity or arthritis can interfere with a woman’s ability, or a couple’s ability, to have a healthy sexual relationship. And common conditions like pain with sex, low desire and relationship issues all play a part.

 

I recently saw a patient who came in for her second visit to our Spectrum Health Cancer, Menopause, and Sexual Health Clinic at the Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion.

 

She shared her excitement about once again being able to have sex after we treated her pain. She told me that cancer had taken so much away from her, but she felt whole again now that she could be intimate with her husband.

 

I love sharing stories like this because it shows how committed we are to helping everyone live better lives—including being as sexually aware and healthy as they wish to be.

 

I recently found the following quote from the World Health Organization:

 

“The purpose of sexual health should be the enhancement of life and personal relationships and not merely counseling and care related to STDs and preventing unwanted pregnancies. Sexual health should involve (1) the capacity to enjoy and control sexual and reproductive behavior in accordance with a social and personal ethic; (2) a freedom from fear, shame, guilt, false benefits and other psychological factors inhibiting sexual response and impairing sexual relationships; and (3) freedom from organic disorders, diseases and deficiencies that interfere with sexual and reproductive functions.”

 

I share this quote with you because, as a physician, I believe in what it says, and I try to keep it in mind when discussing sexual health with my patients.

 

There are many causes of sexual health concerns, and they can be grouped in the following categories: interpersonal issues, physical issues and psychological issues.

 

When discussing interpersonal issues, we think about lack of intimacy, lack of respect and emotional abuse.

 

Physical issues include pain with sex from menopause and dryness, pain from history of pain and/or tight pelvic muscles, and medical conditions such as diabetes or arthritis.

 

Psychological problems include depression or anxiety, history of sexual abuse and poor self image.

 

No matter what your sexual issues include, there are solutions. Reach out to your medical provider for help.

If you have concerns about how to get your groove back, make an appointment to specifically discuss this topic and options with your doctor or a Spectrum Health Midlife and Menopause Clinic expert. Call 616.267.8225 to make an appointment.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Your Child’s Future is in Sight

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By Dr. Shawn Andrus, Optometrist

 

Did you know that 1 in 4 children have problems with their eyes? These problems can impact many parts of their lives from school performance to sports. Unfortunately, vision problems in children can often go undetected. A full eye exam performed by an eye doctor is the best way to find out if your child has any vision problems. They can even provide recommended treatment if needed. This full eye exam checks how well a child can see at a distance and near, how well both eyes work together and the general health of the eyes.

 

The American Optometric Association recommends eye exams starting between the age of 6 and 12 months and every 2 years after. Eye doctors trained in working with children will be able to find vision problems even before a child has learned to talk! It is never too early to have a complete eye exam. Making sure your child has healthy eyes is just one step in giving them a successful future.

 

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

Behind Door K: Tanglefoot artists open studios for community to explore

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Tanglefoot artists celebrate 27 years

By Tanglefoot Artists

 

Join the artists of the Tanglefoot studios on the near West side as they celebrate the cultural legacy they’ve built throughout the years: a testament to the power of beauty, the necessity of art, and the importance of gathering community around you. This year marks the 27th annual open studio sale in the historic warehouse, making it the longest-running open studio event in the greater Grand Rapids area.

 

In a yellow brick warehouse on the near West Side, a former flytape factory has been taken over by some of the city’s most well-known working artists. Nearly 30 years ago, as spaces in the building began to be rented as studio space for artists, early artists like Elaine Dalcher, Michael Pfleghaar, and Nikki Wall decided to welcome the public into their working creative “homes” for an intimate, celebratory chance for friends and family to purchase artwork, right before the holiday gift-giving seasons began. That was just the start of what was to become one of the Grand Rapids art scene’s most important events of the year.

 

This fall, on Friday, Nov. 16 and Sunday, Nov. 18, artists will open their studios once again for the 27th Annual Tanglefoot Artists Open Studio event. Full of chances to meet accomplished local artists, sip a glass of cheer, and find just the right piece of art for yourself or a loved one, the yearly event is known for its hospitality and its variety of price points, allowing for all to support their local artists in meaningful ways.

 

The longest-running open studio event in the greater Grand Rapids area began in 1990, with artists Elaine Dalcher and Michael Pfleghaar opening their studios and inviting fellow artist Nikki Wall, who would soon be a resident artist at the Tanglefoot building herself, to join them. The event was so popular it became a yearly tradition.

 

Tanglefoot building (Credit: Tiffany Szakal)

“We Xeroxed the hand-drawn announcement, folded it in half and sent it out to our friends, families, colleagues and clients,” said Dalcher.

 

Nearly 300 people showed up that first year, and as word spread the event grew to welcome thousands upon thousands of art lovers over the years.

 

This year, the event promises to include some new surprises for regular attendees, as resident artists are welcoming in select guest artists to participate in the annual open studio event.

 

“It’s the truth: every year is special. Why? Because we consciously try to add new things to the show,” said Jason Villareal, long-time resident and participant in the fall event. This year, resident artists are inviting guest artists to join them in their space.

 

“We’ve had guest artists in the past but not this many. It’s a lot of new additional work to enjoy!” said Villareal

 

Visiting artists like Deborah Rockman, Holly Bechiri, and Sung Yi will help eight of the year-round residents fill room after spacious room within the rambling old warehouse with beauty.

 

Over the years, the annual celebration of artists and community has built a legacy for itself as a leading example of how to support local artists, creating an intimate and welcoming opportunity to build community. With artwork for sale, starting as little as $3, from some of the most well-established artists in the area, attendees may want to bring their pocketbook for a chance to support their local creatives while taking home quality work for themselves or for upcoming holiday gift needs.

 

Available for purchase will be paintings, prints, large-scale sculptures, greeting cards, and photo-based art. Just as important as the chance to purchase art, though, these artists recognize the importance of finding chances to reconnect with their community as the holidays approach.

 

“Winter’s settling in, and people are ready to be festive,” said Dalcher. “If people are interested in the community of artmaking and the process of artmaking in our community, then this is a place to come and see working studios, and get a chance to talk to the artists.”

 

”We also have a reputation for good snacks,” she said.

 

The event is open and free to the public Friday evening and Sunday afternoon.

Tanglefoot Artists Open Studio Event 2018
  • Show Dates and Times: Friday, Nov. 16, 5-9pm
    Sunday, Nov. 18, Noon-5pm
  • Location: 314 Straight Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Follow Tanglefoot
2018 Participating Resident Artists include:
2018 Guest Artists include:

**Watch for additional guest artists to be announced**

 

 

 

‘Many Hands’ makes light work

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By Regina Salmi, Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan

 

Caregiving for a loved one with dementia is a difficult job. Depending on the progression of the disease, the simplest tasks can often seem impossible — taking a shower, picking up a few items from the grocery story, keeping a hair appointment. Asking for help from family and friends seems like too much and accepting offers of help can feel overwhelming, ‘Where would I start?,’ we think.

 

The Many Hands program helps caregivers access the support networks they may not realize they already have.

 

A majority of family caregivers, 60% according to the AARP, still work outside of the home.

 

Stephanie Hecksel, Outreach Specialist at Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan observes, “It is common to see caregivers helping out with household chores, errands, and transportation for a loved one while trying to balance time with their own personal responsibilities.”

 

As their loved one’s needs increase, the caregiver puts their personal responsibilities aside to dedicate themselves to the needs their loved one. This leads to increased stress and/or burnout, can take a toll on other relationships and even affect one’s employment. This is where Many Hands comes in. With the help of a Licensed Social Worker, participants in the Many Hands program receive help with organizing their friends, other family members, neighbors, church members, co-workers into a network of willing helpers and to restore some balance to their own lives.

 

Asking people for help is difficult, too difficult for many of us to pick up a phone and reach out to a friend, or accept the help extended by people in our community.

 

Hecksel acknowledges, “It can be difficult to ask for help for many reasons, including feelings of inadequacy as a caregiver or simply feeling overwhelmed by having to reach out for support and how to accept help it without feeling like a bother. Likewise, the people in our lives who would like to help are not sure how to go about it, what they can do or what needs to be done.

 

One of the most unique aspects of Many Hands is that you don’t have to be the one to ask for help.

 

Julie Alicki, LMSW and Certified Advance Dementia Practitioner, said, “Many Hands takes the pressure off of you by having a trained Social Worker handle the entire meeting. As a caregiver you attend, but we do the explaining.” Hecksel agrees, “Rather than the caregiver being expected to take on yet another responsibility of coordinating care, Many Hands will provide that assistance.”

 

All the caregiver needs to do is come up with a list of people in their current social circle who may be willing to help provide support with tasks such as laundry, yard work, meal preparation or spending time with a loved one to give the caregiver a rest and time for themselves.

 

How does it work? The caregiver makes a list of potential helpers. When the Social Worker receives this list, they will send invites and organize a Caregiver Support meeting.

 

At the meeting, the social worker will educate participants on dementia along with behaviors that may be present with the disease. They will also go over the effects of stress on the health of the caregiver, present the tasks identified by the primary caregiver and ask for support in these areas. Once a list of helpers is established, the Social Worker will prepare the Caregiver Calendar used to organize and communicate with helpers. “Many hands make light work” and this is the goal of the Many Hands program.

 

Many Hands is free and available to caregivers in Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Osceola counties. To learn more about this program, contact Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at (888) 456-5664 or email aaainfo@aaawm.org. More information about all the services available through AAAWM can be found at www.aaawm.org.

Increase youth employability through teamwork skills

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Photo courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Sara Keinath, Michigan State University Extension

 

As young people prepare for their future careers, it is advantageous for them to gain experience and confidence in a few key skills. Teamwork is often cited as one of the crucial skills that employers look for during an interview. The ability to work in teams is often rated as an essential skill for both employers and higher education. Michigan State University Extension recommends understanding what teamwork is, as well as looking at how to build your skills in this area while still in high school.

 

The ability to work well on a team involves interacting and communicating with others, understanding goals and priorities, and being able to contribute to the greater good. These skills can be demonstrated through respect for others, as well as being reliable and competent. There are many places teamwork is used in a workplace. Often, a project requires multiple skills to successfully complete it, a job requires working with different people on a daily basis, or management can see the benefits of a team approach. No matter what kind of job or career a young person hopes to pursue, employers are interested in candidates who can exhibit the ability to work well with others.

 

There are many ways teenagers can build teamwork skills while in high school:

  • Join a club. Many extracurricular activities such as 4-H, sports or band provide youth with many opportunities to work as part of a team.
  • Organize or join a community service project. This is a great place to practice leadership as well as teamwork in a setting similar to a work environment while doing something good for the community at the same time!
  • Collaborate with peers or community members on school projects, fundraising targets or civic issues. Pay attention to the skills needed to accomplish the task, as well as the outcomes when a team works together for a common goal.

Teens should document teamwork skills on a résumé. Whether or not the experience was in a work environment, these skills can be very appealing to potential employers, and including them may offer an opportunity to provide more detail about teamwork experiences in an interview. Sample résumés and related activities can be found on the Michigan 4-H website.

 

Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives.

 

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

 

Too sick for school?

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It’s that time of year again, when a cold or other bug could leave you wondering whether your kiddo should go to school or not. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Alyssa Allen, Spectrum Health Beat

 

They are scenes every parent knows well during the school year:

  • You’re awakened in the middle of the night by the distinct sound of vomiting.
  • Your child walks into the kitchen one morning complaining of a sore throat and fever.
  • Your child doesn’t want to eat his breakfast because his tummy hurts.

It’s not always easy to choose between sending your child to school and keeping him home. As it turns out, even those with a medical degree will tell you it’s not an exact science.

 

“There is not a nationally accepted agreement of what the absolutes are for when your child should be kept home from school,” said Bill Bush, MD, pediatrician-in-chief at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

 

Dr. Bush said the American Academy of Pediatrics and most pediatric offices provide guidelines to help parents determine if their child should be seen by a doctor, but there’s not necessarily anything to help them choose between a school day and a sick day.

 

“It’s complicated,” Dr. Bush said. “If this was really easy, then someone would have written a book that says, ‘If you have X, then you should do Y.’

 

“Every family is in a different situation,” he said. “We all know families who send their kids to school with lots of illnesses. And then there are families on the other side that will, with the mildest symptoms, keep their child home from school and say they have to be completely well before they return.”

 

Parents should also check with their school district to see what guidelines are in place for such cases. Some schools have more specific parameters than others.

Dr. Bush has some tips for parents choosing between a sick day and a school day:

  • Fever: What’s considered a fever? For school-aged children, generally 101 degrees or higher is a fever. Keep your child home until he is fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine. “While it does depend on what the fever is associated with, it’s a good rule of thumb to stay home for another 24 hours to give your child time to be better prepared to go back to school, but also to spread fewer germs to the other kids,” Dr. Bush said.
  • Strep throat: If your child has tested positive for strep throat, keep him home until he has been taking antibiotics for 24 hours.
  • Vomiting: Your child needs to stay home until at least 24 hours has passed since he last vomited.
  • Runny nose and cough: If a child’s coughing is disrupting class or keeping him and the other kids from concentrating, he should stay home and see a doctor to determine the cause. Dr. Bush offers a great tip: Ask if your child can actually learn anything based on how he’s feeling. A child with mild symptoms—a stuffy nose with clear discharge, or a mild cough—is likely able to go to school.
  • Head lice: Any child with active lice needs to stay home and be treated. But, Dr. Bush said, many schools have revised their rules to modify the nit-free policy. Check with your school.
  • Pink eye: A child with a diagnosed bacterial eye infection needs to stay home until he has been treated with anti-bacterial eye drops for 24 hours. Dr. Bush said the vast majority of eye infections are viral, not bacterial, and therefore do not require eye drops. Children with viral eye infections producing some discoloration and a small amount of clear drainage should be fine to attend school. A doctor can help determine what kind of infection your child has.

Dr. Bush urged parents to use their pediatrician’s office as a resource when their child is sick.

 

“Most doctors’ offices are well equipped to have parents call and talk to the nursing staff to make triage decisions,” he said. “If you have kept your child home from school and are not sure what the next day is going to bring, call your doctor’s office. We expect those calls and we expect to talk to a lot more families than we see in a day.”

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

 

On the shelf: ‘Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger’s’ by John Elder Robison

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , , ,

By Lisa Boss, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main Branch

 

Robison is just a great storyteller — turning some of the weirdest, craziest stuff into a life you almost envy him having. The author is the older brother that Augusten Burroughs wrote about in his memoir, Running With Scissors, in the chapter, ‘He was Raised Without a Diagnosis’.

 

That diagnosis would not come until he was 40. Up to then he was on his own to cope with his genius, his unsociable behavior, his bewilderment, and his loneliness. Robison sums up his early relations with the world: “Everyone thought they understood my behavior. They thought it was simple: I was just no good.”

 

It wasn’t simple though. All his life he had longed to connect with other people, and gradually he figured out how to do that, despite his Asperger’s. But it took awhile, and his alcoholic father and mentally ill mother weren’t much help. Teachers hadn’t heard of Asperger’s yet, and eventually he left school at 16.

 

Following his interests in explosives and electronics led him into the music industry, where eccentric people were the norm (guess who made the exploding guitars for Kiss?), then into electronic toys, and finally — into his own, true life.

 

Harry Connick Jr. to play DeVos Performance Hall Nov. 26

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, ,

By Hilarie Szarowicz

 

Join Harry and his amazing band as they celebrate New Orleans’ three hundredth birthday and the influences that shaped his career. Enjoy the evening as Harry toasts this beloved city and also performs a selection of holiday favorites, when the “A New Orleans Tricentennial Celebration… Holiday Edition” tour comes to SMG-managed DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids on Monday, Nov. 26, 2018, at 7:30pm.

 

Harry Connick Jr. has exemplified excellence in every aspect of the entertainment world. He has received recognition with multiple Grammy and Emmy Awards as well as Tony nominations for his live and recorded musical performances, his achievements on screens large and small and his appearances on Broadway as both an actor and a composer. The foundation of Connick’s art is the music of his native New Orleans, where he began performing as a pianist and vocalist at the age of five.

 

Tickets are available at the DeVos Place® and Van Andel Arena® box offices, online at Ticketmaster.com, and charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. See Ticketmaster.com for all prices and availability. A purchase limit of 8 tickets will apply to every order.

 

For more information, please visit HarryConnickJr.com.

Tips for researching car insurance

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Photo courtesy of Michigan State University Extension

By Laurie Rivetto, Michigan State University Extension

 

For many youth, getting a car can be an exciting major milestone. Car insurance needs to be a part of that education and milestone as well. It is important to have car insurance to protect your assets, satisfy lenders and comply with state laws that require auto insurance.

 

Here are a few key points from Michigan State University Extension, the Michigan 4-H Youth Development program and the National Endowment for Financial Education High School Financial Planning Program to help youth as they begin their insurance search.

  • Take time to get three quotes. While this takes time, each insurer rates risk differently, so it is important to find out what they will charge you based on your circumstances.
  • Check out the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) education website, Insure U- Get Smart About Insurance, to look at some unbiased, consumer-oriented help and connect you to your local state’s department for assistance. The Shopping Tool for Automobile Insurance provides a step-by-step process to do comparison shopping for insurance.
  • Find out if your employer or any organizations you belong to offer discounts for insurance. Sometimes large organizations offer insurance plan discounts for their members. Insurance companies may also provide discounts or deals for students, good driving records or bundling of services. It might also make more sense for youth to be added to a parent’s insurance, if possible, because of the higher rates for insurance for teen drivers. The insurance company will often view the youth driver as less risky with the oversight from parents or guardians as opposed to the youth getting insurance on their own. (If added to a parent or guardian’s insurance, know that it will raise the premiums for those adults as well.)
  • Know what type of coverage you need, how much you can afford monthly, how often you need to pay your premium (and if you can meet that requirement), what deductible you can afford and the reputation or credibility of the insurance company.

For more information on insurance, the National Endowment for Financial Education has a self-paced course on transportation that reviews transportation options, insurance, buying or leasing, safety, negotiation tips, car care and financing on their Smart About Money website. You can view the sections you want in the course or take part in the full course.

 

Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives.

 

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

 

Cat of the week: Dave

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By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing

 

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

 

Darling, dynamic Dave is all the rave, a stunning (yet ravenous) fella who showed up at the house of one of our cat magnets in late July 2018, making himself quite at home on the front porch, following her indoor cats from window to window, trying to convince the home owner to let him in. Because she was unsure of his health status, she first took him in to her vet (very smart on her part) to have him tested, dewormed and given flea control, but much to her dismay, this friendly fella came up positive for Feline Leukemia.

 

Sadly, the family had been prepared to take him in and make him part of their own furry fold, but Dave’s viral status forced them to look for alternative placement; that is where we came in. On Aug. 13, we opened our doors and hearts to this fabulous four-year-old feline (born in late 2014).

 

Dave needed a bit of a medical work-up–he had a nasty ear mite infection, an abraded foot pad, greasy stud-tail (he was intact), enlarged lymph nodes and a formerly fractured toe on his right rear foot. To top it off, he also had roundworms, giardia and lungworms. And shortly after he arrived at our sanctuary he broke out with calici virus which caused him to spike terribly high temps and develop painful tongue ulcers.

 

But in spite of it all, Dave never once complained, always cuddled, and took his meds like a the champ that he is; his true personality and spirit could not be dampened, as he showed us what a sweet, silly and playful boy he is, the purrfect mix of laid-back and inquisitive.

 

This beautiful boy proved to be one of those cats that will follow you around, not to bother you or beg for attention, but rather simply to see what you are up to. He is quite fond of nap time but will wake up in a hurry if a human enters the room and wants some snuggle time, though he waits patiently on his perch or in his cat cubby for his person to walk on over and rub his belly, an activity he will happily engage in until your hand falls asleep. He loves, loves, LOVES his canned food but it is pleasing people that satisfies him and fills him with contentment.

 

This awesome cat will thrive in pretty much any stimulating home environment, and we feel that he would also like to have another of the feline kind around; ideally finding him a home with another cat with FELV would be the best, but there are vaccines that offer protection against viral transmission that can be given to non-infected cats.

 

Dave is just too spectacular of a cat to pass on by—so don’t even try! Come meet him, pick him up in your arms and discover why we are all completely enamored by this cool cat.

More about Dave:

  • Large
  • Domestic Short Hair — Tabby (Brown/chocolate)
  • Adult
  • Male
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Not declawed
  • FELV-positive
  • Good in a home with other cats; children

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

 

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

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

 

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.

Electric cars making an impact on area residents, the environment

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , , ,

 

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

For Karl Bloss, switching from a gas to an electric car was a fairly straightforward decision.

 

“My employer at the time had workplace changing and that got me interested, so I looked into how much it cost and developed a worksheet that said I could live with this,” said Bloss who is an engineer and owns two electric cars, a Tesla and a Nissan LEAF. “I started out with a used Nissan LEAF that had about forty miles of range. I had a 10-mile commute so it worked out pretty well. I figured even with a little bit less efficiency in the wintertime and having to run some extra errands after work, it would be just fine and that is exactly what happened.”

 

Tyler Burke, who owns a Nissan LEAF and helped organize a recent National Drive Electric Week event, said for most people, when choosing a car, efficiency is not the first thing they think of. 

 

Charge stations showing on the Plugshare.com.

“Is it environmentally friendly is an after thought,” Burke said. “It is the total cost of ownership is what most people find attractive when it comes to electric vehicles or EVs.”

 

Total cost is relatively low considering maintenance on the vehicles is minimum with windshield wipers and batteries for the key fabs needing to be replaced as there is no tune ups, oil changes, or belts to replace. Bloss noted during ownership, a person may have to replace tires or have the air conditioner worked on but items like the brakes have regenerative breaking, which reduces the need for a driver to hit the brake petal and thus save on repairs.

 

However the biggest saving, said several who own electric cars, is the gas costs.  

 

“Well you can figure you can spend about three cents per mile and I know our minivan was about 14 cents per mile,” Bloss said. “If you drive about a 1,000 miles in a month, you are looking at your power bill going up about $30.”

 

“For a majority of my career was commuting from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids and I spent nearly $500 a month on gas alone for those trips,” said Gray Vreeland. “Transitioning to an electric its about 60 cents for me to charge it at night for my new commute so that is quite a bit of savings.”

 

As for finding charging stations, it is not as difficult as you might think with Bloss saying most people are muggles from the Harry Potter world when seeing them. 

 

“if you don’t know that they are there, you would never realize it. But there are charging stations just about everywhere,” Bloss said. 

 

Tesla has supercharging stations and a number of other companies have also started to put stations in. Websites, like plugshare.com, shows where many of the stations are located and any mapping service on a smartphone will also help to locate charging stations.

 

As for range, a 2018 Nissan LEAF has about 150 miles and a Tesla, depending on model, can have a range of 300 miles. Gas cars range do not exceed 400 miles. 

 

Bloss noted that about every major car company either offers an electric car or are working on an electrification program.

 

To learn more about electric cars, visit driveelelectricweek.org.