Category Archives: Kids Activities

Meijer Gardens, county parks, Mackinac Parks begin reopening trend

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Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. (Supplied by FMG)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

It will take a while for West Michigan recreation and entertainment venues to begin their reopening process, and even longer for them to get back to normal, but local attractions such as Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and the Kent County park system — as well as tourist destinations including Mackinac Island Parks — this week announced reopening plans.

WKTV brings you a wrap of what’s opening, what will open soon, and what is still up in the early summer air.

Meijer Gardens

Meijer Gardens will reopen Monday, June 8, at 9 a.m., with new and enhanced safety procedures. There will be extensive signage and way-finding icons to help people social distance, according to an announcement made this week.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is set to reopen on Monday. (Supplied)

“Meijer Gardens first closed our doors to the public on Friday, March 13, due to the global pandemic. It has been an extremely long and painful three months without seeing our facility full of members and guests,” David Hooker, president & CEO of Meijer Gardens said in supplied material. “We are looking forward to welcoming back guests beginning on Monday and can’t wait for people to once again experience our masterpieces of art and nature.”

The planned, but delayed, exhibition “George Segal: Body Language” will open in approximately one week, according to Meijer Gardens. But due to current social distancing and safety guidelines, certain areas within the main building and outside grounds will remain closed for the time being.

“However, the most important part of complying with the rules and guidelines established by Federal and State authorities will be the voluntary compliance of our guests. We sincerely request all our guests comply for the safety and benefit of all,” according to the statement.

For the most current Meijer Gardens information regarding enhanced safety procedures and a map showing areas that are temporarily closed, visit MeijerGardens.org/COVID.

Kent County Parks

Kent County will have a staggered reopening schedule for its beaches, campground, open shelters, picnic areas, public restrooms and splash pad facilities. (Supplied)

The Kent County Parks has started a staggered reopening schedule for its beaches, campground, open shelters, picnic areas, public restrooms, and splash pad facilities, the county announced this week.

“We are excited to welcome visitors back to Kent County Parks and for them to experience the physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors,” Dan DeLooff, county parks superintendent, said in supplied material. “However, it is critical that visitors follow our new rules that prevent overcrowding and support social distancing to ensure our parks are safe for everyone.”

Opening immediately are swimming beaches at Long Lake Park, Millennium Park, Myers Lake Park and Wabasis Park;  all playgrounds; the Kaufman Golf Course; all restrooms, open shelters and group picnic areas. The Millennium Park Splash pad will open on June 8 and the Wabasis Lake Campground will open on June 12.

Enclosed shelters and recreational fields remain closed until further notice from the Governor’s Office. For up-to-date information visit kentcountyparks.org.


The Grand Rapids Public Museum has not announced an opening date yet. (WKTV)

Other Kent County, regional Attractions

Kent District Library

KDL is taking this phased approach to reopening, introducing those services that can be immediately provided while staff make adjustments within the facilities to ensure safety and compliance. All Kent District Library locations will have exterior book drops will open on June 8. Curbside service for picking up items will start June 15 with branches opening with limited service July 6. For details about KDL, visit kdl.org.

Zoos

The John Ball Zoo was scheduled to re-open in May but has postponed those plans with no specific date given on when the zoo might re-open. However, the Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek. For details on Binder Park Zoo, visit binderparkzoo.org.

Museums

None of the local museums, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, the Grand Rapids Art Museum, or the Grand Rapids Public Museum, have announced opening dates yet. The announcements are expected soon.

Trails

While the facilities at Blandford Nature Center are closed, the trails are open. Actually many of the area parks have open trails.

Gilmore Car Museum

The Gilmore Car Museum, located at Hickory Corners, re-opens to the public on Friday June 12, but guests will “notice several new procedures, all mandated by the State of Michigan, and geared toward the Museum’s top priority of assuring the health and safety of their employees, volunteers and visitors,” according to a June 4 statement.

For details and more information visit GilmoreCarMuseum.organd the museum’s social media.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse will open June 13. (Supplied)

State Openings

The state is also starting to open some of its parks. This week Mackinac State historic Parks announced it would be welcoming guests to historic sites and facilities starting June 12.

The first sties to be open in Mackinaw City will be Colonial Michilimackinac, the Colonial Michilimackinac Vistor’s Center, and the Michilimackinc State Park restrooms. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse will open June 13 and the Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park and the David A. Armour Vistor’s Center will open June 15.

On June 19, the Mackinac State historic Parks will open its buildings and facilities on Mackinac Island. This includes: Fort Mackinac, The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac ArtMuseu, Historic downtown Mackinac (Benjamin Blacksmith Shop and the American Fur Company Store and Dr. Beaumont Museum, the Mackinac Island State Park Vistor’s Center and restrooms, Mission Church, Bark Chapel, Fort holmes Blockhouse, British Landing Nature Center and restrooms, Arch Rock restrooms, and the Station 256 Conference Room. The Biddle House feating the Native American Museum, will be open later due to construction delays during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’re excited to get our historic sites open for the 2020 season and offer the world-class living history programs and activities for our guests,” said Phil Porter, Mackinac State Historic Parks Director. “We have developed, using our Visitor First philosophy, a set of guidelines that will safely welcome guests to our sites while allowing for a fun and educational time.”

For details on the openings and other schedules, visit mackinacparks.com.

WKTV Managing Editor Joanne Bailey-Boorsma contributed to this story.

Pack the right footwear for summer vacations

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Excessive foot pronation increases the stress at the knee and hip joints, which can create problems in the foot, ankle, knee, hip and lower back. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


When packing for your summer vacation, be sure to include the right footwear, a podiatrist advises.


“The type of vacation you go on will determine the type of shoe you need,” Dr. Ronald Lepow, an assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine’s department of orthopedic surgery, in Houston, said in a school news release.


If you’ll be doing a lot of walking, wear shoes with good support and consider where you’ll be going. For example, if you’ll be strolling on uneven cobblestones, the flexibility of your shoes will be more important than if you’re visiting a location with smooth, level walkways.


If you’re going to the beach, bring flip-flops or clogs, Lepow said. Don’t walk barefoot on hot sand because doing so can cause blisters. Be sure to put sunscreen on your feet, he added.


Athletic shoes can be a good choice for evening walks along the beach, and water shoes can help prevent injuries from stepping on objects or uneven surfaces under the water.


If available, use foot showers to wash off any potential contaminants from your feet, Lepow advised.


At pools, wear shoes or flip-flops when not swimming to protect yourself from athlete’s foot, nail fungus and warts, he said.


And if you’re going hiking, you should wear hiking boots. They are well-insulated and provide good heel, arch and ankle support.


Finally, if you buy new shoes, be sure to break them in a couple of weeks before your trip. Walk around the house in them, bend them and use shoe inserts to stretch them, Lepow suggested.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


Snapshots: WKTV ‘Good News’ stories you might have missed

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Health, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local Food, Recreation

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Good news is rare these days, and every glittering ounce of it should be cherished and hoarded and worshiped and fondled like a priceless diamond.”

Hunter S. Thompson

Good News — ‘Small Victories’ in dark days

WKTV recently hosted Kentwood Commissioner Emily Bridson and her guests for a casual conversation over Saturday morning coffee to “Celebrate the Small Victories” during the global pandemic. The discussion included insights from community leaders who have a broad perspective of local businesses, non-profits and our thriving New American community. Go here (and scroll down a little) for the video podcast on WKTV’s The Whole Picture podcast page, and here for the WKTV In Focus audio only podcast.

Good News — Arts Festival’s virtual weekend

While we are not yet able to gather for concerts, go to the ballet, or walk through art galleries, Festival of the Arts and the other 20 cultural organizations that make up the Grand Rapids Arts Working Group are working together to host a Virtual Arts Festival. Go here for the story.

Good News — Farmers Markets are open/opening

Get out in the sun and find the bounty of spring farm produce and so much more, as many area farmers markets such as the Metro Health Farm Market and the City of Kentwood Farmers Market are or will soon be open. Go here for the story.

Fun fact:

2.3 billion

The number of people who are active daily on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp or Messenger, sharing news good and bad. (That compares to about 2.2 million watching Fox News (average in April 2020). Source.

Kentwood’s Public Works Department to bring big truck parade to community Friday

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A City of Kentwood Public Works Department truck, this one set up for winter plowing. (City of Kentwood)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood and its Public Works Department has an annual tradition during National Public Works Week of inviting the pubic into its buildings to see all the impressive equipment and big trucks that serve the community.

But, in this time of social distancing, and in lieu of a traditional open house for National Public Works Week, the city announced May 20 the the Department of Public Works is, instead, bringing the big trucks to the community on Friday, May 22.

Friday morning, from 9 to 11 a.m., a fleet of vehicles will parade through the western portion of the city from Division Avenue east to the Paul Henry-Thornapple Trail, beginning at Division and Maplelawn Street. From 1 to 3 p.m. in the afternoon, the trucks will take a route through neighborhoods east of the Paul Henry Trail. (See the map of streets to be covered below.)

 

“We invite residents to enjoy the parade from their porch, yard or driveway and wave as we pass by to allow for safe physical distancing outdoors,” the city stated in supplied material.

Also on May 22, the Department of Public Works will be giving away free Red Maple tree seedlings. Native to Michigan, Red Maple trees are known for their beautiful fall coloration. Those interested in the seedlings may pull up to the front of the Public Works building, located at 5068 Breton Ave., between 9 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

To ensure physical distancing guidelines are followed, the city asks that upon arrival, residents stay in their vehicles, and a staff member will bring up to two seedlings and tree care instructions to the vehicle for safe loading. For more information, call 616-554-0817.

The prudent pyre

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A bonfire adds a warm, welcoming glow to any graduation party. Just make sure the atmosphere is calm, not raucous and reckless. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


Bonfires are a popular way to celebrate big events among teens, but they’re at risk for serious burn injuries, an expert warns.


“The only guaranteed way to prevent bonfire burn injuries is to not have a fire in the first place,” said burn surgeon Dr. Arthur Sanford, of Loyola Medicine in Maywood, Ill. “But if you do decide to have a fire for a prom, graduation or other occasion, there are simple ways to minimize the risk of burns.”


Check the weather and cancel the bonfire if high winds are forecast, he recommended in a Loyola news release. Clear all brush from the area and make a fire pit. Keep a bucket of water and garden hose close by.


Newspaper and small kindling provide the safest way to start a fire. If you decide to use charcoal lighter fluid, seal the container after use and keep it well away from the fire. Do not put lighter fluid on a fire after it’s started, Sanford said.


And, he added, never use accelerants such as gasoline, diesel fuel or kerosene, and never spray aerosols or throw canisters or fireworks into the fire.


Keep the bonfire at a manageable size, no more than about four feet square, Sanford advised.


Everyone should stay a safe distance away and never horse around near a fire, he said. No one should drink alcohol.


Always put the fire out completely before you leave. Stir the ashes and douse them thoroughly with water. Sanford said Loyola’s burn center has treated numerous patients who suffered burns after accidentally walking on hot ashes.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


Kentwood parks and rec offers live and virtual ‘stay at home’ activities including fun 14-day Challenge

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The list of ideas of activities which people can do on your own or with the whole family from the comfort of their home include a unique 14-day Challenge. (Kentwood Website)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

During the statewide “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order, the City of Kentwood’s Parks and Recreation Department’s recreation coordinators have put together a list of activities, videos, websites, and other resources for families to utilize — to “stay active for both physical and mental well-being.”

A Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department member offers a video on a simply fun cooking idea. (Kentwood Website)

The list of ideas of activities which people can do on their own or with the whole family from the comfort of their home include a unique 14-day Challenge that begins simply with everyday household tasks but graduates to planting a garden, practicing yoga and cooking for — if not with — kids.

“Like other parks and recreation agencies across the country, the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department has worked quickly to transition programming to a digital format,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said to WKTV. “There has been a great deal of collaboration on ways we can all continue to serve our communities while adjusting to the new normal.

A yoga class to be done at home. (Kentwood Website)

“We’ve developed a resource hub, where people can explore our virtual programs as well as other activity ideas we’ve discovered on one easy-to-use webpage. … All activities are simple things people can do from the comfort of their homes.”

The list of activities is available on the city’s website at kentwood.us/virtual. They are also also sharing some of their virtual programs on the Parks and Recreation Department’s Facebook page.

Of particular note is the 14-day Challenge, though which participants can win a $5 gift certificate which can be used towards a Kentwood Parks & Recreation program.

To participate, according to the department’s website page, persons should simply take pictures each day of their challenge completion. At the end of the 14 days, submit the photos to erecreation@kentwood.us. Participants are also encouraged to share their photos in the comments on the department’s Facebook page each day. Those who comment with a photo will be entered to win a free City of Kentwood 5k race entry or a $10 gift certificate for parks and recreation programs. 

“We can’t wait to see your photos!” program information states.

Looking for something fun to do with your kids? WKTV has a new family cooking show

Entertainment, Food, Kids Activities, WKTV Projects,
On the first episode of “Cooking and Kids”, Vlada Vladic and daughter Mikaela will make a cake together. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

kelly@wktv.org

A new WKTV cable television show, “Cooking and Kids”, may be just the thing to help housebound parents and children bond over food — and who doesn’t like bonding over food?

“Cooking and Kids”, produced by Vlada Vladic and Vlada’s Seeds of Life, is a “fun family cooking program created to reconnect families through sharing the love not only for quality food, but also for the enriching experiences attained when children are engaged in the process of bringing that food to the table,” according to supplied material.

The show will debut Friday, May 1, on WKTV Community Media cable Channel 25 (in Wyoming and Kentwood), at 10:30 a.m. and again at 6 p.m.

The program’s mission is to “educate, enable, energize, and engage families to reconnect through a shared passion for quality family time, healthy food and healthy lifestyles utilizing the natural and community resources available to them.”

The premier week’s episode is Lets’ Bake a Cake!, where viewers will learn to make a lemon cake.

“Preserving and passing onto kids one of the oldest arts of baking,” it states in supplied material. Step by step, Vlada and her daughter Mikaela will share how to make a homemade cake using homegrown ingredients.

“Spending time in the kitchen with kids is great opportunity for kids to learn various cooking and living skills as well as to bond with parents and friends,” Vlada says in supplied material. “Baking was one of the essential activities over which families bonded for centuries. In this episode, we are teaching and passing on this important skill onto younger generation.”

Complete schedules of programs on WKTV is on the WKTV web site at www.wktv.org.

Kentwood, Wyoming public schools implementing remote learning options after state closes schools

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Local public school’s plans for remote learning differ, but all meet state guidelines and goal that “teaching and learning must continue.” (Public Domain)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, early this month, ordered all K-12 public school buildings to close for the remainder of the school year but urged the continuation of education through remote learning — in fact part of her order included funding the use of public school facilities by public school employees and contractors for the “purposes of facilitating learning at a distance.”

Many Wyoming and Kentwood school districts, along with the Kent ISD, anticipating the governor’s order, had already been working on remote learning plans. But the governor’s order set a deadline of this week for remote learning plans to be submitted and approved by the Kent ISD, and required “all schools to begin providing learning opportunities for all students no later than April 28, 2020. Districts who are able to begin their plans earlier are encouraged to do so.”

Most local schools districts are already “doing so.”

There was no easy answer, no cookie-cutter answers given individual district goals, needs and even the logistics of working to verify students’ ability to access the internet and to distribute the technology necessary to reach as many students as possible.

So every district’s plan is unique but, in the words of the Kent ISD Continuity of Learning and COVID-19 Response Plan Application instructions, “although schools are closed and not providing in-person instruction, teaching and learning must continue.”

To look at just one plan, after getting approval of the district’s plan from the ISD, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools this week shared their plans with their community, and WKTV.

“Today marked a new beginning for Godfrey-Lee Public Schools as the district responded to the suspension of in-person learning and shifted to distance learning for the entire district,” Kevin Polston, superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, said to WKTV early this week. “District staff have prepared for this reality over the past few weeks to provide students and families necessary supports to continue meaningful learning for the remainder of the school year. New student learning begins today and will continue through the remainder of the school year ending on May 29.”

Some of the highlights of the Godfrey-Lee remote learning plan include providing almost 1,500 computer/tablet devices and contacting families individually to check on internet access — the district reports 93 percent have such access. For more detailed information on the Godfrey-Lee plan, visit here.

To gain information on other Wyoming and Kentwood public school district’s remote learning plans, visit their district websites and/or Facebook pages, including Wyoming Public Schools, Godwin Heights Public Schools, Kelloggsville Public Schools, and Kentwood Public Schools website and Facebook page link.

“While the means of delivering learning has changed, the district’s vision, mission, and values remain constant,” Godfrey-Lee’s Polston said. “I am confident that our students will have an excellent experience during our Continuity of Learning Plan, and our staff stands ready to support any student or family member in need.”

Also like other school districts in the Wyoming-Kentwood area, remote learning is only one part of Godfrey-Lee schools’ efforts during a spring of closed schools.

“The district has also continued to support the basic needs of families, social-emotional wellbeing of students, and health and wellness of families through Kent School Services Network (KSSN) support,” Polston’s stated. “It is the expectation that each student will have contact with a district staff member every week. … (And) the district implemented a structure to target students that aren’t in contact to offer assistance and support.”

Godfrey-Lee, also undoubtedly like other local school districts, has also gained support in their remote learning activities.

“The district is thankful for the generous support of individuals, community partners, and philanthropy during this crisis,” Polston said.

The upside to milk

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Those with dairy in their diet have a lower risk of diabetes—possibly because they’re eating less refined, low-fiber carbohydrates, according to one study. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Len Canter, HealthDay


Dairy foods have been getting a lot of attention from researchers in recent years, notably from studies done both jointly and separately by scientists at Harvard and Tufts universities.


They looked at the relationship between full-fat dairy and the risks for heart disease and diabetes.


A 3,000-participant study found that people who included dairy fat in their diet had a lower risk of diabetes. One theory for the link is that people who skip or limit dairy might compensate by eating more refined, low-fiber carbohydrates, which can increase diabetes risk.


A study that followed more than 200,000 people over several decades looked at the relationship between dairy fat intake and heart disease.


It found no increase in heart disease risk among people who ate dairy fat, although the risk was lowered when calories from dairy fat were replaced with calories from plant-based fats or whole grains—24% when they were replaced by polyunsaturated fats and 28% when replaced with whole grains.


On the other hand, the risk went up by 6% if those calories went instead to foods with other types of saturated fat, like red meat.


A third piece of research reviewed nine studies that looked specifically at butter—another source of saturated fat—and its role in heart disease, diabetes and all causes of death.


The analysis found that while plant-based fats are healthier, small amounts of butter aren’t likely to hurt you.


What might you do with all this information? The familiar bottom line is moderation.


While it’s still healthier to cook with olive oil, for instance, you can indulge in a pat of butter on your hot whole-grain cereal or an ounce of cheese on whole-grain bread or, perhaps best of all, a serving of full-fat yogurt and a cup of berries.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.




Muskegon Museum of Art announces rescheduled annual gala, other events

Beer, Community Health, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events,
A scene from the Muskegon Museum of Art. (MMA photo by Jennifer Green Photography)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Muskegon Museum of Art this week announced to members the rescheduling of several events postponed due to COVID-19 related “Stay at Home” restrictions, most notably that the MMA’s annual Gala has been moved to Saturday, Aug. 29.

“As you know, we are a program heavy organization and, disappointingly, have had to cancel and reschedule dozens of events,” Kirk Hallman, executive director of Muskegon Museum of Art, said in an email to members. “The Muskegon Museum of Art will emerge from this a stronger institution. We have weathered many crises since 1912 and we will get through this together as well thanks to your support! We still have big plans for the future.”

Among the other schedule changes announced were: the J2B2 Concert will be held on Sept. 4; On Tap has been moved to Sept. 25; and the Postcard Salon “will be held this fall.”

In detailing the plans for the museum’s exhibits, the summer Permanent Collection Exhibitions, including a planned major Glass Exhibition, will not open as planned on May 14.

“We will open these shows as soon as possible … It will be worth the wait!” Hallman said. “These shows will now run into November. We are disappointed at having to place the 92nd Annual Michigan Contemporary on hiatus for a year. It will return better than ever in 2021.”

   

Currently, the staff has been “putting volumes of content and activities online including a virtual preview tour of three galleries from this summer’s upcoming exhibitions.”

For more information visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

Kentwood’s Streams of Hope gains grant to support tutoring of elementary school students

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Education, Food, Going Local, Health, Kentwood Public Schools, Kids Activities, Non-Profits,
In addition to it tutoring program, Streams of Hope offers a variety of programs to their community including a food pantry, after-school activities for middle and high school students, a community garden, and health & wellness programs. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Streams of Hope community center in Kentwood has received a $25,000 grant from HarperCollins Christian Publishing to support the center’s elementary student tutoring program.

Since the tutoring program begin in 2010, it has steadily grown to provide more than 100 hours of free tutoring each week by 10 certified teachers to 80 students, according to the center.

Kurtis Kaechele (Supplied)

“It’s a joy and a privilege to have HarperCollins Christian Publishing come alongside this tutoring initiative once again,” Kurtis Kaechele, Streams of Hope executive director, said in supplied material. “They have been a wonderful partner over the past six years, and their support empowers the students in this neighborhood to overcome barriers and succeed in school.”

During the COVID-19 stay-at-home restrictions, Streams of Hope has sent virtual tutoring resources to their students and provided printed versions to families that utilize the center’s food center drive-thru supplemental grocery system.

The combined population of three public elementary schools, each less than half a mile from the center, located at 280 60th St, SE, is over 90-percent eligible for federal assistance, according to Streams of Hope.

“Educational success is a significant factor for reducing poverty, and our prayer is that by impacting students we would see our neighborhood transformed for the better,” Kaechele said. “In 2018, 91 percent of students being tutored in reading achieved one grade level or more of growth. During the same period, 84 percent of math students raised their assessment scores.”

 

Kentwood’s Streams of Hope ministry serves children and families in several ways. (Supplied)

In addition to tutoring, Streams of Hope offers a variety of programs to their community including a food pantry, after-school activities for middle and high school students, a community garden, and health & wellness programs. It also serves as a campus for SpringGR entrepreneurial training.

The HarperCollins grant will also support the center’s summer soccer and reading camp in addition to their Nutrition, Education & Wellness program for diabetic clients.

“Year after year, HarperCollins Christian Publishing continues to be in awe of what Streams of Hope can accomplish for the Kentwood community, and greater Grand Rapids,” Casey Harrell, senior director of corporate communications at HarperCollins Christian Publishing, said in supplied material. “Not only have we built a relationship through monetary investment, but with their leadership, staff, and the children involved in their tutoring program.”


Streams of Hope is a community-based ministry in the Townline neighborhood of Kentwood that “exists to demonstrate God’s love and foster sustainable change through services that build relationships, meet family needs, and promote a healthier community,” according to the group. Its programs focus on creating healthier schools, neighborhoods, and families by utilizing local resources.

For more information visit streamsofhope.org.

Snapshots: Things to take a fun break from those ‘Got those stay at home blues’

3-bottom, Community Health, Education, Health, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Recreation, WKTV Projects, ,

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“The art of medicine consists of amusing the patient while nature cures the disease.”

Voltaire



Meijer Gardens horticulturist Laura Worth leads a virtual tour of the back greenhouses at the Gardens. (Meijer Gardens)

Let’s meet at The Gardens when all this is over

Can’t wait for working in the garden? Meijer Gardens works the year around. Take a tour with horticulturist Laura Worth as she leads a tour of the back greenhouses, where the horticulture team stores and grows many of the plants that make Meijer Gardens beautiful. Go here for the video.



National Museum of Natural History. (Supplied)

Look at the tusks on that elephant!

One of the world’s most visited museums for good reason, the National Museum of Natural History branch of the Smithsonian is magic at keeping kids of all ages entertained and learning. Go here for the virtual tour.



“All the Small Things” video remix 2020 by MDs vs COVID (YouTube) 2020

A little music, just for the fun of it …

In late March, a group of students at Harvard Medical School created “FutureMDs vs. COVID” and, as young people are want to do, created a video with an update of Blink 182’s “All The Small Things”. A little silly, a little good advice, a little heart. Go here for the music video.

Fun fact(s):

Winning at Go Fish

Playing a lot of card games with your kids? Tired of letting them win or, worse, them accidentally winning? Here is how to reach your kids how to beat you at Go Fish. Winning at Go Fish.

After Gov. Whitmer cancels in-school education, Kent ISD and local schools exploring options

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Hard News, Health, Kentwood Public Schools, Kids Activities,
Lee Middle and High School. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Governor Gretchen Whitmer today signed Executive Order 2020-35, which orders all K-12 school buildings to close for the remainder of the school year but urges the continuation of education through remote learning.

Gov. Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-35, issued Thursday, April 2, also guarantees school staff and teachers will be paid for the remainder of the school year, allows the sue of public school facilities to be used by public school employees and contractors for the “purposes of facilitating learning at a distance”, and assures that 2020 seniors will graduate this year.

As far as school-based standardized tests, the governor’s statement said that those previously scheduled for the remainder of the school year, including the M-STEP and the SAT, will be canceled. There will be a date in October for rising high school seniors to take the SAT and for other high school students to take the PSAT.

It also states that guidelines for “remote learning” for the remainder of the 2019020 school year will be issued, Friday, April 3.

While Wyoming and Kentwood school districts are looking to what those guidelines may be and how they may handle remote learning, the Kent ISD issued a statement detailing their actions.

“The Governor asked each school district and its staff provide instructional materials and opportunities for students to continue their education during this crisis,” Ron Caniff, superintendent of Kent ISD, said in a supplied statement following the governor’s order.  “We are working with our schools, their superintendents and staff to respond to the governor’s request as quickly as possible.

“Our team is reviewing instructional plans from states across the country to create the best possible experience for students and their families, who will be essential in helping their children learn during this difficult time. Local districts are doing the same and have been actively designing plans since the school closure went into effect.”

Kent ISD school districts are working together to develop distance learning programming for all students, according to the Kent ISD statement. Some will be served online, while others will receive packets of educational materials delivered much as food is being provided for students who qualify for free and reduced-price meals while schools are closed.

“While all of the details have yet to be worked out, parents should check their district websites and wait for communication from their individual school district to learn the details for their students,” according to the statement.

 

Districts have also een working to verify students’ ability to access the internet and to marshal the technology necessary to reach as many students as possible, Caniff said.

During this crisis, many of the necessary elements – internet hotspots and inexpensive laptop computers – are in short supply as employees in all fields work from home. To help member districts, Caniff said the Kent ISD this week purchased 1,000 Chromebooks “and will continue to monitor district needs and resources available to ensure schools can reach all students to the extent possible.”

Governor continues action to blunt virus spread

Gov. Whitmer said the decision was forced by the current need to extend COVIF-19 restrictions into June, which she has called for legislative leaders to approve quickly.

 

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks during a 2019 event. (Air National Guard).

“For the sake of our students, their families, and the more than 100,000 teachers and staff in our state, I have made the difficult decision to close our school facilities for the remainder of the school year,” Gov. Whitmer said in a statement accompanying her executive order. “As a parent, I understand the challenge closing schools creates for parents and guardians across the state, which is why we are setting guidelines for schools to continue remote learning and ensuring parents have resources to continue their children’s education from the safety of their homes.”

The Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators and the Michigan Council of Charter School Authorizers will develop “a Continuity of Learning Plan template application for schools to utilize in order to create their localized plan,” according to the announcement of the governor’s action.

“District plans will need to detail how districts will provide opportunities for students to learn remotely and how schools will manage and monitor their progress,” the statement continues. “It will also provide information on how parents and guardians can learn more about the local plan. Each district must have its plan approved by their regional Intermediate school district (ISD) before being implemented. Public school academies must have their plans approved by their authorizer.”

Districts can also partner with one another to create joint plans.

“There is no video chat or homework packet that can replace the value of a highly trained, experienced teacher working with students in a classroom,” Gov. Whitmer said. “But we must continue to provide equitable educational opportunities for students during this public health crisis.”

If the plan relies on some online instruction, the district should ensure every student who needs it has access to an appropriate device with an ability to connect to the internet. “Students and families will not be penalized if they are unable to participate in their alternate learning plan,” the announcement states.

Governor’s action also allows other public school action

Gov. Whitmer also announced that schools should continue to provide mental health care services for students “to the extent possible,” and should be ready and willing to help efforts to establish disaster relief childcare centers. School districts will also continue to provide meals for families who need them during the COVID-19 crisis.

The Godfrey-Lee Public Schools and Godwin Heights Public Schools systems, and other local school districts, have already been providing meals to students during the school closures.

Also, if any schools have unused personal protective equipment, cleaning supplies or other materials, they are allowed and encouraged to donate them to organizations that could put them to use.

Additionally, school districts will have the flexibility to adopt a balanced calendar for the 2019-2020 school year and/or to begin the 2020-2021 school year before Labor Day without having to seek additional approval. Student teachers will still be able to get a temporary certification and current teachers will still be able to get their certifications renewed, even if they can’t meet all the requirements due to COVID-19.

To view executive order 2020-35, click the link here.

KIA opens virtual exhibit Young Artists of Kalamazoo County

Citizen Journalism, Education, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events,
Kalamazoo Institute of Arts has unveiled an online presentation of the annual Young Artists of Kalamazoo County exhibition. (Supplied)

By Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts has unveiled an online presentation of the annual Young Artists of Kalamazoo County exhibition.

“A virtual exhibition was our solution to Michigan’s shelter in place directive by Governor Whitmer,” said Michelle Stempien, KIA Director of Museum Education, adding that opening weekend for the annual exhibition would typically draw thousands of visitors.

“We are approaching 40 years for this exhibition, and of course this is the first time we have shared it online. But we weren’t going to miss the opportunity to offer something so positive to the community — and to honor the hundreds of young artists showing work on the walls,” she said.

She added that education curators turned into videographers early this week, after installing the hundreds of artworks in two of the museum’s first floor galleries. Art teachers from more than 50 public and private elementary and middle schools chose and submitted artwork by their K-8th grade students.

“We hope everyone is inspired by the color and expressiveness of these young artists to bring more art into their own lives,” Stempien said, adding her thanks for the exhibition’s lead sponsor The Tyler-Little Family Foundation, and co-sponsor PLAZACORP.

“We always love seeing the student artwork come in each year; it puts a smile on the faces of everyone who is involved in producing this exhibition,” Stempien said, adding “and we look forward to welcoming the community back to the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts very soon.”

Visit here for more information on the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.

The KIA is planning to present a virtual exhibition for upcoming spring exhibitions as needed. This will likely include the juried West Michigan Area Show (April 10) and High School Area Show (April 24).

WKTV concerts — Sounds of Summer to return; WKTV has Brena Band on-demand

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The crowd and band at Sounds of Summer 2019. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

If you’re feeling a little cooped-up — and who isn’t? — and longing for a community concert featuring local talent, we have good news and good news.

First, WKTV has been told that the people behind Cutlerville’s Sounds of Summer July concert series are already looking past the current COVID-19 restrictions and planning for 2020 summer series.

The Brena Band. (Supplied)

And if you can’t wait that long for a community concert, WKTV has a bunch of recent concerts in Wyoming and Kentwood covered by WKTV Community Media and available on-demand at WKTVlive.org. For example, check out the great August 2019 City of Kentwood Summer Concert Series concert by Brena. Don’t know the band? Check here for a 2019 WKTV story.

Patty Williams and crew. (Supplied)

“It’s a go,” Patty Williams, of P. Williams Productions, said to WKTV on March 26. Sounds of Summer series “music will fill the park … A variety of bands from country, rock, jazz, and Bluegrass, will be setting the stage to entertain the community.”

Williams, who is a longtime WKTV Community Media volunteer, said the concert series, at Cutlerville’s Cutler Park, has gotten the go-ahead to schedule concerts every Thursday night in July, starting July 2, with concerts starting at 7 p.m.

This popular concert series by P. Williams Productions, and LW Studios, has been entertaining the local community for more than five years at Cutler Park, located at 6701 Cutler Park Drive, just off 68th St., near Division Avenue.

To keep up on news of Sounds of Summer, visit their Facebook page @soundsofsummerculterville, or call P. Williams Productions at 616-818-9874.


Muskegon Museum of Art offers remote art projects for crayons, cameras

Area Education, Community Health, Education, Entertainment, How-To's, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation,
One of the Selfie Challenge artworks was “Fastball” (bronze, 1987) by Albert W. Wein (American, 1915-1991). (Supplied by MMA)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The Muskegon Museum of Art may be closed to visitors due to the COVID-19 restrictions, but it doesn’t mean lovers of art can’t have some fun with art projects sponsored by the museum.

For adults — or tech-savvy children — with a love of cell-phone selfies, the museum is offering the MMA Selfie Challenge. For children — or children-at-heart — with crayons (or whatever is used these days) in hand, the museum is offering “Color our Collection” coloring book pages.

“Calling all selfie snappers! The MMA is hosting a “Selfies of the Best Kind” challenge,” the museum states in supplied material. “Every other day in March, we are posting a work of art from our collection on Facebook that we encourage you to replicate at home with a selfie.”

Check out the museum’s Facebook page for the artwork of the day, snap your selfie, post it to your wall, and tag the Muskegon Museum of Art. (Use #picturesofthebestkind or #muskegonartmuseum for tags.)

The remaining Selfie Challenge Dates are March 25, 27, 29 and 31.

Also, the museum is offering Color our Collection coloring book pages available for download and printing. In all there are seven images from the Muskegon Museum of Art’s permanent collection available, with information about the artist on the second page of the pdf files.

Among the paintings available for coloring are John Steuart Curry “Tornado Over Kansas”, Edward Hopper’s “New York Restaurant”, Dale Nichols’s “Footsteps in the Snow”, Roger Brown’s “Painter of a Birds Eye View”, Jacob Lawrence’s “The Builders: The Family”, Hughie Lee-Smith,’s “Apres-Midi” and Severin Roesen’s “Tabletop Still Life”

For more information and its many activities during and after the COVID-19 restrictions, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

Meijer Gardens to open annual Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition on March 1

Area Education, Entertainment, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events, Volunteers,
Kids of all ages and butterflies mix at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition — reportedly the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the nation — will bring more than 7,000 tropical butterflies to West Michigan beginning Sunday, March 1.

This year’s exhibition highlights Nathaniel Ward and the invention of the Wardian Case.

In 1827, Ward accidentally invented terrariums while studying caterpillars and moths by placing them in jars. He noticed that plants were flourishing in these sealed jars and discovered that plants and insects better survived the harsh conditions in London, a city known for heavy pollution at the time, if they were enclosed in sealed containers. This discovery led to horticulturists being able to transport items around the globe and these early “fern cases” paved the way for modern terrariums, greenhouses and conservatories.

“Step Into the glass house during this year’s Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition and discover how the invention of the Wardian case changed the world,” Lisa Roo, project manager, said in supplied material. “This year’s theme offers our community a sense of wonder with magical glass houses from four feet tall to our iconic fifty-foot-tall Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory.

“We offer our guests the unique experience of stepping into glass houses to see butterflies soaring, caterpillars munching, and learn how the Wardian case paved the way for modern terrariums and greenhouses.”

A new Wardian case will be located in the adjacent Earl and Donnalee Holton Victorian Garden Parlor.

Approximately 60 colorful species of butterflies and moths journey from butterfly-rich regions of Costa Rica, Ecuador, the Philippines and Kenya to fly freely in the five-story tall, 15,000 square-foot Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory. At 85 degrees and 70 percent humidity, this balmy environment mimics the tropical regions that the butterflies call home.

Butterflies and flowers will be on display at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s annual Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming exhibition. (Supplied/Meijer Gardens)

Species of butterflies expected to arrive include the blue common morpho, whose iridescence impresses in flight, as well as brushfoot varieties such as the Clearwing, Lacewing and Zebra Mosaic. Likewise, the longwings captivate with distinctive wing patterns as seen on the Small Blue Grecian, Doris, Postman and Tiger butterflies. Gliders like the Emperor, Ruby-Spotted and Orchard Swallowtails will also add to the diverse assortment.

More than 1,000 pupae arrive at Meijer Gardens weekly from around the world. Guests can watch as delicate chrysalides and cocoons are placed in the Observation Station, where these unique and fascinating creatures then transform and spread their wings for the first time.

The Caterpillar Room, located within the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse, features monarch caterpillars. (Supplied/Meijer Gardens)

The Caterpillar Room, located within the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse, features monarch caterpillars. Here guests will have the opportunity to learn more about how plants, butterflies and moths live in and under glass. Caterpillars hungrily feed on milkweed host plants mixed in with the flowering spring plantings and ferns that encompass the perimeter of the seasonal display greenhouse.

A docent will be present to help guide guests and enhance the experience. Volunteers are also “Wanted. Needed. Appreciated.” with various jobs and shifts. Contact Valerie Maciejewski at vmaciejewski@meijergardens.org or 616-974-5221.

There will be extended hours during Spring Break (Monday to Friday, April 6-10, 9 a.m. top 9 p.m.) and There are several special exhibition activities also set for the show. For more information visit meijergardens.org.

Taste of Kentwood — a community celebration — returns to Activities Center on March 12

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The crowd at the 2019 Taste of Kentwood. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood invites residents and all West Michiganders of all ages to a celebration of food, fun and local business at a community-celebration event, Taste of Kentwood, on Thursday, March 12.

Now in its 19th year, Taste of Kentwood will be held at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. The event will feature a variety of local restaurants offering samples of appetizers, entrées, sides and desserts during two sessions: 4:30-6 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m.

One of the eateries at the 2019 Taste of Kentwood. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

“Kentwood is known for its incredible diversity which is demonstrated in our ranging dining options,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “From ethnic to American, high-end to casual, Taste of Kentwood is the ideal opportunity to try new foods, meet neighbors and make the most of what the city has to offer, all in one spot.”

In addition to tasting the local cuisine, there will be live music from the band Just Cuz, an acoustic duo that performs an eclectic mix of cover tunes from an array of genres.

The restaurants and food venders elected to be present include old favorites as well as eateries new to the city, including: Broad Leaf Beer, Café Boba, City Barbeque, Dave & Buster’s, Jet’s Pizza, Peppino’s Sports Grille & Pizzeria, PJ’s Pizza, Coffee & Ice Cream, Red Robin, Tim Hortons, Uccello’s Ristorante, Underground Cookie Club, YoChef’s Catering Company and Zason Latino.

For more information and for tickets for either session, visit here. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 on the day of the event. Children, 5 and younger, are free.

Kentwood’s August ballot will include millage question for park, trail and recreational improvements

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Kentwood’s Veterans Memorial Park would be one of the many parks and recreation areas to see improvement from a proposed millage. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The Kentwood City Commission recently gave unanimous approval of a millage question to be put on the August ballot “to improve Kentwood parks, trails and recreational facilities and programming,” according to a Feb. 24 city statement.

The ballot question will ask voters to consider authorizing a millage of 0.9 mills for a period of 10 years, which would then be reduced to a perpetual millage of 0.65 mills. The tiered millage would be dedicated solely to construct, operate, maintain and acquire parks, trails and recreation improvements and programs.

If approved, the millage would fund improvements to the City Campus, a new community center, improvements to all parks and allow for trail improvements, as well as support enhanced programming.

“Since celebrating the city’s 50th anniversary in 2017, considerable time and effort has been dedicated to developing plans for the next 50 years of community growth,” Mayor Stephen Kepley said in supplied material. “With clear direction from Kentwood residents, the plans would improve all the parks and enhance the trail systems, while providing for a central community gathering place, which is a frequent request from our residents.”

Kentwood has more than 13 miles of non-motorized trails, which are used year-round by residents and visitors, as well as parks that cover more than 300 acres. More than 700 recreational programs and numerous community events for people of all ages and abilities are offered through the Parks and Recreation Department in the Kentwood Activities Center, on the City Campus and at other locations.

Millage details

A mill is 1/1000th of a dollar or .001 cents. If a tax rate, or millage rate, is a 0.9 mill, a resident would be taxed .009 cents for every dollar, or $0.90 per $1,000 of the taxable value of his or her property. For a 0.65 mill, that would equate to $0.65 per $1,000 of taxable value, according to city information.


For example, a residential home with a taxable value of $100,000, the cost of 0.9 mills would be $90 per year for 10 years. After 10 years, the millage would reduce to 0.65, which would equate to $65 per year.

Projects millage would fund

The proposed millage would support the following improvements:

Bowen Station Park: New restroom, new playground components, gateway signage, site amenities, landscaping.

Burgis Park: Trail and sidewalk improvements, drinking fountain.

City Campus: Splashpad, playground, plaza, shelters, stage, event lawn, parking, restrooms, site amenities.

Community center: Approximate 40,000-square-foot community center (to be designed).

East Paris Nature Park: Trail improvements, signage, site amenities.

Home Acres Park: Skate park improvements, shade shelters, lighting, signage, site amenities, landscaping.

Jaycee Park: New restroom/program building, playground structure, basketball court, parking improvements, playground.

Kellogg Woods Park: Restrooms, softball/baseball field, landscaping.

Northeast Park: Restrooms, playground, splashpad, site amenities, landscaping.

Old Farm Park: Parking improvements, playground or splashpad, shelter, site amenities.

Paris Park: Trail improvements, signage.

Pinewood Park: Splashpad improvements, pickleball/tennis courts, restroom, shade shelters, site amenities, landscaping.

Rondo Street Station Park: Playground, site amenities, landscaping.

Stanaback Park: Playground, ADA improvements, parking improvements, signage, pickleball courts, site amenities, landscaping.

Stauffer Station Park: Kiosk, lighting, signage, site amenities, landscaping.

Summerwood Park: Playground, landscaping.

Trails: Repair, replacement or the creation of new connections.

Veterans Memorial Park: New soccer field and playground expansion (to be completed in FY 2021 via Community Development Block Grant funding).

“The improvements identified through our extensive community engagement and planning process demonstrated our community needs have grown beyond our current budget,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “The Parks and Recreation Department has exhausted current general funds, including a parks millage that expired in 2013.

“We have only been able to achieve improvements through various grant opportunities which are becoming more and more difficult to acquire,” she said. “To keep pace with our growing community needs, new funding is critical.”

Work of community-led advisory committee

The City Commission decision comes on the heels of a recommendation made by the City of Kentwood Parks, Trails and Recreation Advisory Committee. The City Commission worked with the committee to refine the plan.

The plan objectives are to begin improvements to City Campus in year two, address the most immediate needs at every park within the first five years, start construction on a new community center in year five and complete all remaining improvements within 10 years.

In addition to the potential permanent dedicated millage, the City would contribute up to $3.6 million from other funding sources and a future loan of up to $5 million, which would come from the City’s Special Assessment Revolving Fund. An internal loan would eliminate the need to issue a bond and associated interest, according to the city.


The 19-member advisory committee included a broad cross-section of Kentwood residents to ensure the diverse needs of the community would be represented in the review of the proposed improvements. Ed Kape, who currently serves on the Planning Commission and as chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission, served as chair of the advisory committee. Dustin Moseley, a Parks and Recreation commissioner, served as vice chair.


“At the charge of City Commission, Kentwood residents from all over the community pulled together to create this plan,” Kape said in supplied material. “As residents, we unanimously concluded that a millage was necessary to create a sustainable funding plan for the future of our parks, trails and recreational programming.

“We are pleased the City Commission has approved putting the millage question on the August ballot so residents can weigh in on this opportunity to support our parks in a new and meaningful way.”


In developing its recommendation, the advisory committee reviewed, and prioritized improvements identified in the Parks and Recreation Business Plan, Parks Master Plan, Non-Motorized Trail Plan and findings from the Plan Our Parks – POP! Public Engagement Series.

“We are thankful for the residents’ involvement in the committee and its holistic review process,” Mayor Kepley said. “The detailed visionary planning they’ve contributed to will increase Kentwood’s excellent quality of life for many years to come.”

 

Snapshots: Three fun things to do this weekend, inside and out

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Upcoming Events

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Time flies whether you are having fun or not. Your choice.”

Anonymous
(Supplied/Grand Rapids Symphony)

Inside in GR, with a wizard

The Harry Potter Film Concerts Series returns to DeVos Performance Hall with “Harry Potter and Half-Blood Prince” on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 21-22, with the Grand Rapids Symphony performing the live score while the entire film plays in high-definition on a 40-foot screen. Go here for the story.

The start of the 2019 Freeze Fest disc golf event. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

Inside and outside in Kentwood

The City of Kentwood will have two community events this Saturday, including the Annual Freeze Fest Disc Golf Tournament, and a Hawaiian Luau-Themed Family Dance, both on Feb. 22. Go here for the story.

Outside in Grand Haven

On Saturday, Feb. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m., downtown Grand Haven businesses  will be showcasing their favorite Nursery Rhymes during the tenth annual Frozen in Time. Frozen in Time is a window display competition, complete with live mannequins and an Oscar-style awards ceremony. Go here for the story.

Fun fact:

It will not be -13 (we hope)

That record low temperature in Grand Rapids was set in 1966 with a low of -13 degrees, which we tied Feb. 19, 2015.

Woodland Mall, New Hope Baptist Church partner for Black History Month ‘Live Museum’

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African-American legends will “appear” at Woodland Mall during Black History Month thanks to reinactors from New Hope Baptist Church. (Supplied/Woodland Mall)

By Woodland Mall

African-American legends will “appear” at Woodland Mall during Black History Month thanks to reinactors from New Hope Baptist Church. (Supplied/Woodland Mall)

Jay Z, Tina Turner,  Coco Gauff and Congressman John Lewis will be among the African-American legends “appearing” at Woodland Mall during Black History Month — thanks to a special partnership with New Hope Baptist Church.


 
Woodland Mall and New Hope Baptist Church are partnering to bring a “live museum” to the mall on Saturday, Feb. 29, from 2 to 5 p.m.  The one-day only exhibit will feature actors portraying notable and important African-American figures in politics, sports, science, arts, entertainment and other areas.


 
Ranging in age from 10 to 72, the actors are all volunteers from New Hope Baptist Church in Grand Rapids.


 
“We are proud to partner with New Hope Baptist Church for the eighth year of this great event,” said Cecily McCabe, marketing director for the Woodland Mall. “The live museum gives our guests the opportunity to learn through personal connections. We look forward to the talents of the volunteers who work so hard to create a memorable event.”


 
During the live museum, actors and volunteers will portray African-American figures in history and current culture. The performers bring their persona to life by adopting mannerisms and speaking from a script. Interaction will be limited to the script so performers can fully immerse themselves as the people they are portraying.


 
“The performers work hard for the weeks leading up to the event each year,” said Rev. Dr. Howard Earle, Jr., senior pastor at New Hope Baptist Church and visionary of the African-American live museum. “The community looks forward to this event as an opportunity to help educate our community and to share the wonderful talents of our volunteers.”


 
The event, Earle said, impacts everyone in the community, generating a sense of pride that spans generations.

 
 
“Events like the live museum demonstrate the importance of diversity in our country,” Earle explained. “African-Americans are an integral part of all professions and have made significant contributions to our cultural identity – from science to politics to entertainment. We’re confident everyone will not only learn something at this event, but enjoy it as well.”


 
The live museum is free inside the Woodland Mall, and everyone is welcome to attend. Throughout the history of the event, no figures have been repeated, with one exception. Former President Barack Obama was first seen early in his administration and again in 2017 as he exited office.

For more information visit shopwoodlandmall.com.

WKTV has Wyoming, Kentwood high school sports schedules, featured game coverage

Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

WKTV has your weekly high school sports schedule, and our coverage crew will be out twice the week.

The Featured Game coverage schedule for the remainder of February includes the following:

Tuesday, Feb. 18 — Boys Basketball Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee

Friday, Feb. 21 — Girls/Boys Basketball West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House

Tuesday, Feb. 25 — Girls/Boys Basketball Tri-unity Christian @ Grand River Prep

Friday, Feb. 28 — Girls/Boys Basketball Tri-unity Christian @ Potter’s House

Where and when to see the game

Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. The games can also be seen on AT&T U-verse 99.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org.


 
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.


 
Following is this week’s schedule:

Monday, Feb. 17
Boys/Girls Bowling
South Christian @ FH Eastern
Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Kelloggsville @ Wellsprings Prep
Girls Cheer
Wyoming @ Comstock Park
Kelloggsville @ Comstock Park

Tuesday, Feb. 18
Boys Basketball
Tri-Unity Christian @ Fennville
Algoma Christian @ West Michigan Lutheran
West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian
Grand River Prep @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
Muskegon Catholic Central @ Potter’s House
Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee — WKTV Featured Event
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
South Christian @ Middleville T-K
Wyoming @ Hudsonville
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Girls Basketball
Tri-Unity Christian @ Fennville
Algoma Christian @ West Michigan Lutheran
West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian
Grand River Prep @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
Potter’s House @ Muskegon Catholic Central
Wyoming Lee @ Hopkins
NorthPointe Christian @ Godwin Heights
Middleville T-K @ South Christian
Hudsonville @ Wyoming
Belding @ Kelloggsville
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Girls Cheer
East Kentwood @ Comstock Park

Wednesday, Feb. 19
Boys/Girls Bowling
Wayland @ South Christian
Byron Center @ Wyoming
East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Boys Wrestling
East Kentwood – MHSAA Team Regionals

Thursday, Feb. 20
Boys/Girls Bowling
Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian
East Kentwood @ Caledonia
Boys Basketball
West Michigan Lutheran @ Kalamazoo Phoenix
West Michigan Aviation @ Barry County Christian
Girls Basketball
Barry County Christian @ Grand River Prep
Boys Swimming
South Christian @ Ottawa Hills

Friday, Feb. 21
Boys Basketball
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River
West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House — WKTV Featured Event
Holland Calvary @ Grand River Prep
Zion Christian @ Calhoun Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Belding
South Christian @ Wayland
Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Grandville @ East Kentwood
Girls Basketball
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River
West Michigan Aviation @ Potter’s House — WKTV Featured Event
Zion Christian @ Calhoun Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Belding
South Christian @ Wayland
Wyoming @ East Grand Rapids
Kelloggsville @ Calvin Christian
Grandville @ East Kentwood
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ TBA — O-K Silver Post Season Tourney
Boys Hockey
South Christian @ Christian
Girls Cheer
Wyoming – TBA – MHSAA State Districts

Saturday, Feb. 22
Boys/Girls Bowling
Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
South Christian – OK Green-Gold Tournament @ Park Center Lanes
Wyoming @ Christian
East Kentwood – Post Season Conference Tournament
Girls Cheer
Wyoming Lee @ Comstock Park – Districts
@ East Kentwood – MHSAA Districts
Boys Hockey
Catholic Central @ South Christian
Boys Wrestling
East Kentwood – MHSAA Individual Regionals

Monday, Feb. 24
Girls Basketball
Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation
Boys Basketball
Wellsprings Prep @ West Michigan Aviation
Boys/Girls Bowling
Wyoming Lee @ Potter’s House

Infected by a good mood?

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Happiness is contagious among teens. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By  Robert Preidt, HealthDay


A good mood is infectious among teens, but depression is not, a new study suggests.


Researchers looked at more than 2,000 American high school students to see how they influenced each others’ moods. They found that a positive mood seems to spread through groups of teens, but having depressed friends doesn’t increase a teen’s risk of depression.


In fact, having plenty of friends in a good mood can halve the chances that a teen will develop depression over six to 12 months. Having a lot of happy friends can also double the likelihood of recovering from depression over the same time period, the researchers found.


However, the study could only show an association between happy friends and a lower risk of depression or a faster recovery from depression. It cannot prove a cause-and-effect relationship between these factors.


“We know social factors, for example living alone or having experienced abuse in childhood, influences whether someone becomes depressed. We also know that social support is important for recovery from depression, for example having people to talk to,” study author Thomas House, a senior lecturer in applied mathematics at the University of Manchester in the U.K., said in a university news release.


“Our study is slightly different as it looks at the effect of being friends with people on whether you are likely to develop or recover from being depressed,” he added.


These findings suggest that promoting friendships, through such activities as social clubs, might help guard against depression, House noted.


“This was a big effect that we have seen here. It could be that having a stronger social network is an effective way to treat depression. More work needs to be done but it may that we could significantly reduce the burden of depression through cheap, low-risk social interventions,” House concluded.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.


Winter Meijer State Games registration still open for local weekend events beginning Friday

Community Health, Health, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events
The Meijer State Game of Michigan will have local events this weekend; snow will be involved and registration is still available. (Supplied/Meijer State Game of Michigan)

WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The main weekend of the Meijer State Games of Michigan’s Winter Games will take place this weekend, Feb. 14-16, with local sports including indoor archery, ninja, fencing, cross country skiing (freestyle and nordic), karate, disc golf, shooting sports and wrestling.

Online registration as well as onsite registration is still available for some main weekend sports, according to supplied material. For more information about onsite registration, times, locations and entry fees for events, please visit stategamesofmichigan.com. Registration information is located on each sport’s page.

The main weekend will begin with an athlete celebration hosted by the Grand Rapids Griffins on Friday, Feb. 14, at the Van Andel Arena. A special in-game recognition of all Meijer State Games athletes will take place during the first period.

Prior to the Griffins game, the Meijer State Games will present the 2019 Athletes of the Year awards, including to Catherine Vandergriff of Spring Lake (speed skating), Noah Zomberg of Grand Rapids (rugby) and Anastasia Schutte of Holland (archery 3D).

The Meijer State Games of Michigan held the first sporting event of the Winter Games, fatbike, on Feb. 1. Results for all the Winter Games sporting events are now available here.

The Meijer State Games of Michigan, according to supplied material, is an Olympic-style, multi-sport event(s) that welcomes athletes regardless of age or ability level. “The games embody the values of participation, sportsmanship, and healthy living among the residents of Michigan.”

Since 2010, Meijer State Games of Michigan has hosted more than 65,000 athletes. The Meijer State Games of Michigan has also contributed over $25 million in estimated economic impact to cities throughout Michigan, according to supplied material.

Alternatives in Motion’s holds mobility drive, plans 2020 GVSU ‘Wheel Run’ 5K

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AIM also invites the public to run, walk or hand cycle your way through Grand Valley State University’s campus in Allendale this Saturday, April 4, for its Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser. (Supplied/AIM)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The local non-profit Alternatives in Motion — whose stated mission is to “enhance independence through access to mobility equipment” — recently announced a successful mobility device collection drive put on by one of AIM’s board members.

AIM will also be the benefactor of the Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser, held at Gran Valley State University’s Allendale campus in April. And it is not too early to sign up.

Throughout December 2019, AIM board member Leigh Chick hosted a Mobility Drive at Ionia Intermediate School District’s Freedom Acres School.

Throughout December 2019, AIM board member Leigh Chick hosted a Mobility Drive at Ionia Intermediate School District’s Freedom Acres School. (Supplied/AIM)

“I was inspired to host a mobility drive to support AIM because they have given so much to the students and families of Ionia County and directly to Freedom Acres School,” Chick said in supplied material. “I knew there were families and community members holding onto old equipment that their child had outgrown and they didn’t know what to do with it. I wanted to give them a place to pay it forward. I also wanted to spread the word about how amazing of an organization AIM is.”

Chick thanked several people for help with the drive, including Jim VanBeek of Triangle Construction, who loaned an enclosed trailer to house and collect the equipment in until it could be delivered to Alternatives in Motion’s warehouse, as well as, at the school, Principal Angela Miller, maintenance supervisor Jeff Duell, and Brenda Brown, the school’s physical therapist.

Wheels, run, walk, whatever — for a good cause

AIM also invites the public to run, walk or hand cycle your way through Grand Valley State University’s campus in Allendale this Saturday, April 4, for its Wheel Run Together 5K Run/Walk fundraiser.

All proceeds go directly to support the organization, which aids in donating and refurbishing wheelchairs to individuals and families in need.

The event will take place at 1110 Kirkhof Center, 1 Campus Drive, on GVSU’s Allendale campus. In addition to the run, there will be raffles, prizes, music, snacks, drinks, and more. The cost is $25 per person with events starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m.

Registration and additional race information can be found at the following Facebook link.

For more information on Alternatives in Motion, visit their website here.

Snapshots: Three ways to get involved in the Kentwood, Wyoming community

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can.”

George Bernard Shaw

Community programs in Wyoming

There are a number of spring programs available through the Wyoming Department of Parks and Recreation Registration is now open for these programs. Go here for the story.

Run and dance in Kentwood

The City of Kentwood has community-focused events all year round but February may be a little more busy than most months with its annual Valentine’s Dash 5K on Saturday, Feb. 8, and two more events later in the month, including the Annual Freeze Fest Disc Golf Tournament, and a Hawaiian Luau-Themed Family Dance, both on Feb. 22. Go here for the story.

Summer sunny job in Wyoming

Whether a college student just home for the summer or an older adult looking to do something different, the City of Wyoming has a number of seasonal job opportunities available. Go here for the story.

Fun fact:

$3,910 … or so

If you will reach full retirement age in 2019, you may earn up to $3,910 per month without losing any of your Social Security benefits. Source.

Kelloggsville boys basketball hosts Comstock Park in non-conference WKTV Featured Game

Area Education, City of Wyoming, Education, Kids Activities, Local Entertainment, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The Kelloggsville High School boys basketball team will take a break from its OK-Conference Silver schedule to host Comstock Park out of the OK Blue Tuesday, Feb. 4, as both teams look to get back in the win column.

The Kelloggsville Rockets (4-6 overall, 2-4 in league) are coming off a road loss to OK Silver foe Godwin Heights on Jan. 31. Comstock Park (2-8 and 1-5) will be out to break a six-game skid including a home loss to Central Catholic also on Jan. 31.

The WKTV Sports Featured Game will be available on cable television and on-demand at WKTVlive.org.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; On AT&T cable throughout the Grand Rapids area, viewers go to Channel 99, and then are given the choice to watch Wyoming (or Kentwood) Community (Channel 25) or Government (Channel 26) channels.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

February a busy month for Kentwood community events, community-support activities

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From a previous year’s City of Kentwood Daddy-Daughter Dance, which this year will be expanded to be an “all family” dance. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood has community-focused events all year round but February may be a little more busy than most months with its annual Valentine’s Dash 5K on Saturday, Feb. 8, and two more events later in the month, including the Annual Freeze Fest Disc Golf Tournament, and a Hawaiian Luau-Themed Family Dance, both on Feb. 22.

Many of the city’s community events also support local persons in need. This week’s run/walk will benefit Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, while the disc golf tournament also serves as a food drive for the pantry.

This week’s 5K run/walk will start and end at the Kent District Library’s Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, located at 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Check-in, on-site registration and packet pick-up will all take place at 9:30 a.m. The race will begin at 11 a.m.

Some of the runners at a previous Kentwood Valentine’s Dash 5K. (WKTV)

The 5K route will include a combination of trails and roads with mile markers and Valentine’s Day candy stations. Valentine’s-themed costumes are encouraged for the occasion. Fellow participants will vote to determine who is the “best dressed” and awards will also be presented to the fastest runners. While the 5K is intended to be a fun run, it will be chip-timed.

Following the race, participates will be invited into the library’s community room for a party that will include music, snacks, a photo booth, the award ceremony and more. If participants bring a non-perishable item or additional monetary donation for the pantry, they will be entered to win a special door prize.

Online registration costs $30 until Feb. 7, and $35 for day-of registration. Participant packets include a long-sleeve shirt “and other goodies.” Runners who sign up as a couple will save $5 each.

A full day of fun on Saturday, Feb. 22

The late-month events are filled with family fun at the library and outdoor adventure, with the Hawaiian Luau-Themed Family Dance particularly unique.

“This dance is such a great opportunity for kids to get dressed up, have fun and dance with the adults in their lives,” Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director, said in supplied material. “Whether they choose to attend with their parents or grandparents, primary caregivers, guardians or other relatives, the event is open for children to enjoy an evening making memories with their family, whoever that is to them.”

Formerly known as the Daddy-Daughter Dance, this family event will run 6 to 8 p.m. in the community room at the Kent District Library’s Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch and include refreshments, crafts, a photo area with props and a DJ. The evening will also include a short hula performance by Pacific Island Dancers.


Tickets cost $10 per person, and pre-registration is required. To purchase tickets go online at kentwood.us/familyluau or call 616-656-5270.

Earlier that day, the Freeze Fest doubles as a disc golf tournament and food drive as the City of Kentwood and Great Lakes Disc have once again partnered to host the competition.

The start of the 2019 Freeze Fest disc golf event. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

Disc golfers of all levels are invited to partake in the best-shot doubles competition at Jaycee Park, located at 1088 Gentian Dr. SE. Funds raised this year will benefit City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation youth programs and all food donations will help stock Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry.

On-site registration begins at 9 a.m., and the first round of the tournament starts at 10 a.m. The cost is $40 and one canned food donation per team.

“We look forward to this event every year not only because disc golf and a little competition is exciting by nature, but because it’s incredible to watch community members come together in support of Kentwood initiatives,” Lori Gresnick, Kentwood recreation program coordinator, said in supplied material. “Last year, we collected an entire car load of groceries and supplies for the Little Free Pantry, which really goes a long way.”

Pre-registration and more event information is available online at: kentwood.us/freezefest.


Located in the Kentwood Activities Center at 355 48th St. SE, Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry is a year-round resource for area residents to take or donate food and personal care items. No applications necessary, and no questions asked. More information about Kentwood Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available online at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry.

Want happy, healthy kids? Be involved

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It’s common sense, but it’s a good reminder: A supportive environment makes for happier kids. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Maureen Salamon, HealthDay


Teenagers living in cohesive neighborhoods—where trusted neighbors get involved in monitoring each other’s children—experience fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety, a study suggests.


The researchers also found consistent results across different cities regardless of family composition and neighborhood income, indicating strong neighborhoods help teen mental health across various populations.


Along with common risk factors, neighborhood environments should probably be given more attention when looking for potential factors linked to teen mental health problems, said study author Louis Donnelly. He’s a postdoctoral research associate at the Bendheim-Thoman Center for Research on Child Wellbeing at Princeton University in Princeton, N.J.


“Notably, whether a child grew up in a higher- or lower-income household, the associations were similar. The findings can be generalized across different city contexts,” he added.


About 14 percent of adolescents in the United States have had depression or a mood disorder. Eight percent have been severely impaired from an anxiety disorder, the study said.


The study included information on more than 2,200 children born in large U.S. cities. The information was collected between 1998 and 2000.


The study authors wanted to see if “neighborhood collective efficacy”—a blend of social cohesion and shared expectations for social control—was linked to better teen mental health.


The teens evaluated their own mental health at age 15. Parents provided “collective efficacy” information when their children were 3, 5 and 9. Parents ranked their agreement with statements such as, “People around here are willing to help their neighbors,” or “People in this neighborhood generally don’t get along with each other.”


Another scale asked parents to express their belief in statements demonstrating that neighbors would be likely to intervene or get involved in scenarios such as, “Children were spray-painting buildings with graffiti,” or “Children were showing disrespect to an adult.”


The researchers found that the “neighborhood effect” offered a protective effect similar to depression prevention programs targeting teens.


“There are really two (measurements) that are distinct, one being social cohesion and mutual trust. This is the idea of believing that people in your neighborhood share similar values and can be relied on for support,” Donnelly explained.


“The second dimension relies on informal social control,” he added. “We measured that based on the extent to which families and other adults can be relied upon to intervene … (such as) if a fight broke out in the street or children are not attending school.”


Maurice Elias said he wasn’t at all surprised by the study findings. He’s a professor of psychology at Rutgers University in Piscataway, N.J.


“The idea that being in a supportive environment would be good for children’s mental health shouldn’t be a revolution,” said Elias, also director of the Rutgers Social-Emotional and Character Development Lab. “It’s always nice when research helps confirm common sense. I see this as one of those examples.”


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



WKTV has Wyoming, Kentwood high school sports schedules, featured game coverage

Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Kentwood Public Schools, Kids Activities, Recreation, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports
WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

WKTV has your weekly high school sports schedule, and our coverage crew will be out twice the week. The Featured Game coverage schedule for the last week of January includes the following:

Tuesday, Jan. 28 — Girls/Boys Basketball Grand River Prep at Zion Christian

Friday, Jan. 31 — Girls/Boys Basketball Caledonia at East Kentwood

Want to be a television sports announcer?

If anyone has ever thought about trying to announce a sporting event, WKTV has a great chance for you to do exactly that! We are always looking for additional announcers, especially for the spring games. If you would like to try it or have any questions, please email Mike at sportswktv@gmail.com.


 
Where and when to see the game

Featured games are broadcast the night of the contest and then at least once later in the week.

WKTV broadcasts on Wyoming and Kentwood cable channels. On Comcast cable, Channel 25 is the Community Channel, where sports events and other community events are shown; Channel 26 is the Government Channel, where local government meetings and events are shown. The games can also be seen on AT&T U-verse 99.

For complete schedules of programs on WKTV channels, see our Weekly On-air Schedule.

All Featured Games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvlive.org.


 
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and feature stories on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/.


 
Following is this week’s schedule:

Monday, Jan. 27
Boys/Girls Bowling
@ East Kentwood
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
FH Eastern@ Wyoming
Wyoming Lee @ Kelloggsville
Christian @ South Christian

Tuesday, Jan. 28
Girls Basketball

East Kentwood @ Grand Haven
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Western Michigan Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian
Kelloggsville @ Tri-County
South Christian @ FH Eastern
Galesburg-Augusta @ Potter’s House
Grand River Prep @ Zion Christian – WKTV Featured Event
West Michigan Aviation @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
Boys Basketball
Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Wyoming Lee @ NorthPointe Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ Kelloggsville
FH Eastern @ South Christian
Grand River Prep @ Zion Christian – WKTV Featured Event
Lansing Martin Luther @ West Michigan Lutheran
West Michigan Aviation @ Fruitport Calvary Christian
Boys/Girls Bowling
Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
Boys Wrestling
Kelloggsville @ Kent City
Girls Cheer
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee

Wednesday, Jan. 29
Boys/Girls Bowling
Caledonia @ East Kentwood
Godwin Heights @ Kelloggsville
Wyoming @ Christian
East Grand Rapids @ South Christian
Boys Wrestling
East Kentwood @ Caledonia
Godwin Heights @ Shelby
Wyoming @ Hamilton
Wyoming Lee @ Lakeview
Girls Cheer
Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee
Girls Basketball
Grand River Prep @ Holland Black River

Thursday, Jan. 30
Boys Swimming/Diving
@ East Kentwood
South Christian @ Middleville T-K
Boys Bowling
Grand River Prep @ Tri-Unity Christian
Girls Basketball
Potter’s House @ Zion Christian
Boys Basketball
Potter’s House @ Zion Christian

Friday, Jan. 31
Boys Hockey
East Kentwood @ Chelsea
Girls Basketball
Caledonia @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Event
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
FH Eastern @ Wyoming
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
South Christian @ Christian
Creative Tech @ West Michigan Lutheran
Boys Basketball
Caledonia @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Event
Kelloggsville @ Godwin Heights
FH Eastern @ Wyoming
Wyoming Lee @ Calvin Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ Covenant Christian
South Christian @ Christian
Fruitport Calvary Christian @ Potter’s House
Creative Tech @ West Michigan Lutheran
Holland Calvary @ West Michigan Aviation

Saturday, Feb. 1
Boys Hockey
Anchor Bay vs East Kentwood/West Michigan Aviation @ Chelsea
South Christian vs Northville
Girls Cheer
Wyoming @ Kalamazoo Central
Kelloggsville @ Northview
East Kentwood @ Northview
Boys Wrestling
@ Kelloggsville – Rocket Individual Tourney
East Kentwood @ Lakewood
Boys/Girls Bowling
Kelloggsville @ Muskegon Reeths-Puffer
Girls Dance
East Kentwood @ Jenison
Boys Swimming
East Kentwood @ Grandville
Boys Basketball
TBA @ East Kentwood

Monday, Feb. 3
Boys/Girls Bowling
Calvin Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian – Boys
NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Hopkins @ Godwin Heights
Byron Center @ South Christian
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Kelloggsville @ Hilcrest Lanes
Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Girls Basketball
Lansing Christian @ Tri-Unity Christian

Valentine’s Dash 5K offer winter fun, benefits Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry

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Some of the runners at a previous Kentwood Valentine’s Dash 5K. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood will host its third annual Valentine’s Dash 5K on Saturday, Feb. 8, to benefit Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, which provides food and personal care items to community members in need, no questions asked.

The city announced today that the 5K run/walk will start and end at the Kent District Library’s Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch, located at 4950 Breton Ave. SE. Check-in, on-site registration and packet pick-up will all take place at 9:30 a.m. The race will begin at 11 a.m.

The 5K route will include a combination of trails and roads with mile markers and Valentine’s Day candy stations. Valentine’s-themed costumes are encouraged for the occasion. Fellow participants will vote to determine who is the “best dressed” and awards will also be presented to the fastest runners. While the 5K is intended to be a fun run, it will be chip-timed.

Following the race, participates will be invited into the library’s community room for a party that will include music, snacks, a photo booth, the award ceremony and more.

“We’ve found this race route to be enjoyable for everyone from avid race participants to casual walkers,” Spencer McKellar, race organizer, said in supplied material. “Whether this is your first race or one of many you’ve completed, we think you’ll find our Valentine’s Dash 5K offers enough of a challenge and a lot of fun for a brisk Saturday morning.

“Invite your sweetie, family and friends to dress up and take on the course with you, then stick around for more activities at the after-party.”

Online registration costs $30 until Feb. 7, after which the price will increase to $35 for day-of registration. Participant packets include a long-sleeve shirt “and other goodies.” Runners who sign up as a couple will save $5 each.

If participants bring a non-perishable item or additional monetary donation for the pantry, they will be entered to win a special door prize.

The Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department is seeking volunteers to assist with the event. Those interested can sign up online.

More information about Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry can be found at: kentwood.us/littlefreepantry.

Prevent human papilloma virus—get vaccinated

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Children should get the HPV vaccine between the ages of 11 and 12, to ensure it is most effective. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum Health Beat


School is back in session, and if your child has had his or her annual checkup, their doctor might have talked to you about the importance of kids and adults obtaining the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.


The HPV vaccine can prevent genital warts and penile cancer in men; cancer of the cervix, vagina and vulva in women; and anal and throat cancer in both men and women.


The HPV vaccine keeps the body from becoming a carrier even if a person is exposed to the virus through sexual contact.


A patient of mine I’ll call Deb recently went through some fairly intense testing to rule out cervical cancer, and it was very stressful for her.


She came to see me for her annual exam and Pap smear, and she had experienced abnormal Paps in the past. She even had to have a colposcopy to make sure she didn’t have cervical cancer. Fortunately, Deb did not have cancer, but she wanted to make sure her kids wouldn’t have to endure the same procedures and worries she endured.


I recommended the HPV vaccine to give her some reassurance for her children.


The HPV vaccine is available in three different brands, each covering two, four or nine different types of the virus. The vaccine is given in three doses within a 24-week period. It can be given to both boys and girls and it has been shown to be safe and effective for females and males between the ages of 11 and 29.


The vaccine can also be given even if the person already has the HPV virus, because it can protect against other types of viruses as well. The optimal range for girls and boys to receive the first shot is between the ages of 11 and 12, because the immune response is better the earlier it is given. In addition, whether or not we like to think about it, kids often have sex before we suspect they do.


In countries where vaccines are more mandated, the HPV vaccine rate is approximately 80 percent. In the U.S. the rate is 54 percent for the first shot and only 33 percent for all three shots. The higher the rate of vaccination, the fewer the women who will develop cervical cancer.


Bottom line: Get your kids vaccinated.


So, why is our vaccination rate so low compared to other countries? In a survey, parents gave the following reasons for choosing not to get their kids vaccinated against HPV:

  • They think the vaccine is unnecessary.
  • They think the vaccine is ineffective.
  • They think the vaccine is unsafe.
  • They don’t understand the details of the HPV vaccine.
  • They don’t think their children would have sex that young.

Health care providers know the vaccine is safe, effective and necessary—and they know that parents need to learn more about the vaccine and appreciate the reality that some children will have sex at a young age. There is excellent information available to support the decision to vaccinate kids early.


I am happy that Deb trusted me and was willing to consider the vaccine to reduce her daughter’s chance of having abnormal Pap smears in the future.


Even if the shot has been given, it is still important to screen for HPV and abnormal cells on the cervix. Pap smears should be started at age 21 and performed every three years after that.


I follow the recommended guidelines to start co-testing of the Pap and HPV at age 30; if the results are negative, repeat the test every three years. If there are abnormal cells present, the next step is to do a colposcopy, where we look at the cervix with a telescope and take a biopsy of the cervix.


Of course, there are several other ways to prevent the HPV virus, and I told Deb to give the following advice to her children:

  • Do not smoke.
  • Use a condom every time.
  • Delay sex until after age 15.

Deb appreciated the information I shared with her and scheduled appointments for her kids to get their vaccines during their checkups.


As a gynecologist who has had to perform hysterectomies on many women because of cervical cancer, I’m very happy that Deb made the choice to have her kids vaccinated.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Sweet tooth? It grows from the get-go

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In studies, about 98% of toddlers had added sugar in their daily diet. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


Bad eating habits begin at a young age in American children, a new study finds.


Researchers analyzed data from more than 1,200 babies (aged 6 to 11 months) and toddlers (12 to 23 months) between 2011 and 2016.


They found that 61% of babies and 98% of toddlers consumed added sugars in their typical daily diet, mainly in flavored yogurt and fruit drinks.


Infants consumed about 1 teaspoon of added sugars daily (about 2% of their daily calorie intake) and toddlers consumed about 6 teaspoons (about 8% of their daily calories).


The main sources of added sugar for infants were yogurt, snacks and sweet bakery products. For toddlers, the top sources were fruit drinks, sweet baked products and candy.


Asian toddlers consumed the fewest added sugars (3.7 teaspoons) and blacks the most (8.2 teaspoons).


The study was published online recently in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.


“This has important public health implications since previous research has shown that eating patterns established early in life shape later eating patterns,” lead investigator Kirsten Herrick said in a journal news release. She’s a researcher with the Division of Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.


The findings did bring some good news: The percentage of babies and toddlers whose daily diets include added sugars declined, as did the amounts they consumed.


But consumption of added sugars remains high among young children.


Herrick noted that a previous study found that 6-year-olds who had consumed any sugar-sweetened drink before their first birthday were more than twice as likely to drink such beverages every day than those who had not.


“Previous research into the diets of children over 2 years old associated sugar consumption with the development of cavities, asthma, obesity, elevated blood pressure and altered lipid profiles,” Herrick said.


Only one U.S. health organization—the American Heart Association—offers guidelines on sugar consumption for children under age 2, researchers noted.


“Our study’s findings about infant and toddler diets should raise awareness among health organizations and practitioners and inform future guidelines and recommendations,” Herrick said.


She advised parents to be cautious about added sugars in the foods they give babies when weaning them.


Parents should talk to a health care provider about which solid foods to introduce, and check the nutrition information on food labels.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.




Sticks and stones and … social media?

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Facebook and social media have exacerbated the problems associated with bullying and mental health. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Health Beat staff


Everyone hates you. You’re a freak. You’re a loser.


Did you react viscerally to these hurtful words? Did the phrases make you cringe or recoil, maybe make your stomach uneasy or your muscles tense?


If so, you just experienced—ever so slightly—the pain, fear and hurt that victims of bullying experience on a daily basis.


Bullying happens every day, in every school building, in every neighborhood throughout the country. But changes in society and technology have brought us to a place where bullying has become especially rampant and particularly vicious.


“There has always been bullying at school,” said Lisa Lowery, MD, section chief of adolescent medicine at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. “And it’s gotten worse. What we see behind the change is social media. Now kids can bully incessantly and inflict pain that can literally go around the world.”


Dr. Lowery regularly works with young people who are bullied on a daily basis. While such professionals see firsthand the harm that it causes, it doesn’t mean the rest of us should be blind to it.


The same mechanisms that allow bullying to become widespread—the Internet, social media, instant communication, smartphones—are also tools that inform us about bullying. We’ve all seen stories in the news, or on Facebook, about families and children who have left communities to escape bullying. We’ve read stories about adolescents driven to suicide because of relentless bullying online or at school.


What’s going on and how can we stop it?

Who’s at risk?

Bullies pick targets who are perceived as vulnerable and less likely to fight back or tattle, Dr. Lowery said.


A New England Journal of Medicine report found that gender issues also play a major role in identifying children most at risk of bullying. The study interviewed about 4,270 fifth-graders, following up with them in seventh and 10th grades. Across all grades, the children identifying or perceived as gay, lesbian or bisexual were 91 percent more likely to be bullied.


Many other children are also targeted every day, for different reasons.


A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, stopbullying.gov, reports that children at risk of bullying are generally associated with one or more of these factors:

  • They’re perceived as different from peers—overweight or underweight; wearing glasses or different clothing; new to school; unable to afford items other kids consider “cool.”
  • They’re perceived as weak or unable to defend themselves.
  • They’re depressed or anxious, or they have low self esteem.
  • They’re less popular than others and they have few friends.
  • They don’t get along well with others, they’re seen as annoying or provoking, or they antagonize others for attention.

Effective school programs, awareness campaigns and legislative protection can help protect children, Dr. Lowery said, but such measures can’t completely erase the harmful behaviors.


Dr. Lowery screens for bullying risk with her patients by asking questions during any exam. She noted a few trouble signs to watch for:

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Isolation
  • Mood changes, especially after time on social media
  • School avoidance

Such symptoms can be attributed to many different causes, but bullying is high on the list. It’s important for parents and teachers to intervene early and get help, she said.

The great agitator: social media

Social media and addiction to technology have without a doubt escalated the problems associated with bullying, Dr. Lowery said.


Bullying is potent in itself. Add social media and instant communication, and it takes on a vicious life of its own.


Children today feel tremendous pressure because the bullying doesn’t stop when they get home from school; there are now no limits to how far bullying can spread.


If you’re a bullied child, there is no escape.


“Because kids are so attached to their technology, it can appear as if they are even going along with it, watching their own abuse play out,” Dr. Lowery said, recalling a patient who was being bullied on Facebook. “When I suggested she simply stop looking at her phone, she said, ‘This phone is my life. Social media is all I’ve got.’”


It’s dangerously counterproductive. “It’s a Catch 22 where they don’t have social relationships or social acceptance, but they can’t look away from the social media,” Dr. Lowery said.

Parents need to help their children set proper values on things like smartphones and social media.


“I had a young lady who was suffering and miserable from bullying,” Dr. Lowery said. “I said to her, ‘No more Facebook. You don’t need social media to survive.’ You have to convince them to take steps.”


One of the key differences in children who are equipped to respond appropriately to a threat and those who aren’t: Support.


Support at home, support at school, support in their life.


Dr. Lowery said she’s seen children perform better when they’re linked to someone who can provide guidance and support: An in-school advocate, a teacher, counselor, a bus driver, or any mentor who can help that student regularly while at school.


“Bullying is not easy to stop,” Dr. Lowery said. “If a child comes to us for an assessment—particularly if they are reluctant to open up at home—we can at least become more informed and take steps before serious damage happens.”


At home, families need to encourage open communication, especially when it involves technology and social media.


“You’ve got to know what is happening on social media with your kids, regularly,” she said. “Ask about it, check in and tackle it together. Set limits. Get off the social media regularly, so that life without it feels normal, too. Brainstorm for activities to replace social media during those breaks.”


Parents need to help their children understand that social media “checkups” aren’t a form of punishment; they’re simply an added layer of protection that lets kids know “you have their backs,” Dr. Lowery said.

Proactive

When bullying happens, it comes down to helping kids know they’re connected and they have options.


Dr. Lowery’s team at the adolescent medicine clinic can serve as an advocate for families.


“If we can help with counseling resources, assessments or even medication, sometimes we can help navigate the administrative pathways with parents and the teens,” she said.


While Dr. Lowery believes a traditional school setting has great value, it must sometimes be set aside for the health of a child. When a bullying situation has become too traumatic or has spiraled out of control, Michigan offers other alternatives, such as homeschooling or an online curriculum.


“Whether it allows a student to take a step back or becomes the permanent solution, (it) depends on the school’s resources and the family,” Dr. Lowery said. “But it’s better than letting a young life spiral out of control. Suicide is a real risk related to bullying.”


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



Bello Spark to lead off Kentwood’s 2020 Winter Concert Series lineup

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Bello Spark in concert. (Joel Hirschmugl Nenonen Photo)

By City of Kentwood

The City of Kentwood’s Winter Concert Series is returning in 2020 with free concerts on select Thursday nights from January to March at the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch.


The series features three West Michigan bands: Bello Spark, Serita’s Black Rose and Nicholas James Thomasma. Food trucks will also be on-site during each concert.


“Our winter concert series is a great opportunity for residents to come together during the colder months,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “With a variety of local, talented musicians and food truck favorites, winter concerts offer residents an enjoyable night out.”

The lineup, which includes a mix of acoustic folk-rock, funk and blues music, is as follows:

Thursday, Jan 16 –  Bello Spark with Patty Matters Food Truck

Thursday, Feb. 20 –  Serita’s Black Rose with food truck Grilled Greek

Thursday, March 19 – Nicholas James Thomasma with food from Bobby’s Fusion Grill

All concerts will begin at 6:30 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. Concertgoers are welcome to bring their own beer or wine to enjoy.

For more information on this year’s concert series, please visit: kentwood.us/winterconcerts.