Category Archives: Local Business

What is holistic care for seniors?

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Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living

By Vista Springs Assisted Living


There are new advancements being made in medical fields everyday, which can mean great things for seniors who are in need of medical treatment. Even as scientific progress continues to make a significant impact, it’s just as important to meet the needs of a patient that go beyond medical care at the same time. A person’s physical, emotional, and mental states are just as important as their physical condition. 


So how do we meet those needs? Holistic care is an approach to healing that works to include all areas of a person’s wellbeing in their treatment plan. Most people are confused about what holistic care means and how it can apply to them — and in the case of seniors who need care, how it can improve their lives. Let’s take a look at what holistic care is and how it can apply to your loved one’s care plan. 

What is holistic care?

Holistic care is centered around a philosophy of healing the whole person. This means looking at a patient as a person first, not as a diagnosis or set of care needs. Holistic care takes into consideration other aspects of a person beyond the physical, including their feelings, emotions, and overall state of mind throughout their care journey.


In addition, holistic care tries to fix the cause of a condition instead of just managing the physical symptoms of sickness. Holistic treatments include not only the traditional remedies that you would receive from a regular doctor, but also different ways to help treat conditions that go beyond traditional medicine. 


Take, for example, migraines. If someone complained of migraines, a holistic medical practitioner would give the patient medication to manage pain just like most doctors. However, they would also look at what could be behind the headaches, such as a bad diet, poor sleep, or high stress levels. They would then suggest additional treatments for those factors, like a new diet plan, different habits for better sleep, or a massage or meditation course to help decrease stress.


Holistic care practitioners try to make patients feel dignified, respected, and heard by considering the physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual needs of a patient. Common examples of holistic care include:

Holistic care & seniors

As people age and become seniors, they generally find themselves struggling with more and more health problems. This can be incredibly difficult to handle, especially if pain is a daily symptom. Many seniors look to avoid having an overwhelming amount of prescriptions and medications, many of which come with serious side effects.


While the benefits of medical science have undeniably come a long way, it’s also important that seniors feel valued as people. Holistic care can be a great supplemental option for seniors who want to maintain their dignity, feel valued and respected, and have different options for treatments and pain management alongside traditional remedies. 


Holistic care can have additional benefits that make a big impact on seniors, including:

  • Opportunities for socialization
  • Healthy relationships with long-term caregivers
  • Cognitive development and maintenance
  • An increased sense of self-worth and self-respect
  • Staying independent for longer
  • Spiritual and religious comfort 

Seniors don’t want to feel like a burden on their caregivers, and a brusque attitude can make them feel as though they aren’t being valued as people first and foremost. Seniors with serious illnesses can quickly become depressed if they aren’t treated with compassion and respect. Therefore, it makes sense that holistic care can go a long way in helping seniors mentally, emotionally, and physically.



Snapshots: WKTV ‘good food news’ stories you might have missed

3-bottom, Beer, Food, Going Local, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Food

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“Of all the wonders of nature, a tree in summer is perhaps the most remarkable; with the possible exception of a moose singing ‘Embraceable You’ in spats.”

Woody Allen



A taste of summer — Pronto!

For many in Wyoming and Kentwood, Pronto Pups is associated with Grand Haven where one of the most famous — and the longest running — stands featuring the popular batter-dipped dog on a stick is located. But this summer, Pronto Pups will be coming to local events and locations. Go here for the story.



A taste of summer — Go dog!

The 44th Street Dog and Dairy walk-up eatery, located just east of U.S. Highway 131 in Wyoming, opened just about its normal time of mid-April. While it not entirely “business as usual” due to current restrictions on restaurants, the chill dogs are still hot and ice cream still cold. Go here for the story.



A taste of summer — A pint, please

Three Wyoming and Kentwood area craft breweries and brew pubs — TwoGuys Brewing, Broad Leaf Local Beer and Railtown Brewing Company — are doing what they can to keep their taps flowing. in these times of COVID-19 restrictions … and that means offering up beer-to-go. Go here for the story.

Fun fact:

1.4 billion

Most ice cream is made March through July. July is the busiest production month for ice cream makers. About 1.4 billion gallons of ice cream and related frozen desserts were produced in the U.S. in 2017. Source.

Local hotdog and ice cream walk-up eatery opens, with restrictions but optimism

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Local Business, Local Food, WKTV Projects,
The 44th Street Dog and Dairy walk-up eatery’s owner and manager Joel Ruark. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The 44th Street Dog and Dairy walk-up eatery, located just east of U.S. Highway 131 in Wyoming, opened just about its normal time of mid-April. But is it not entirely “business as usual” due to current restrictions on restaurants.

Owner and manager Joel Ruark, who opened the business in 2012, says is some ways his business is perfect for the COVID-19 restrictions — 44th Street Dog is a walk-up, not a walk-in, and there is very little direct contact between employees and customers.

But he also worries about the impact of not being able to allow customers to sit on his brightly colored bench tables and eat as the weather gets warmer.

“Pretty much normal opening time for the season,” Ruark said to WKTV last week. “We got to the 15th (of April), which is when we usually open, and we said, ‘Well, we qualify. We’re a take-out.’ And we do a lot of take-out food. (Where people pick it up and drive away).”

The 44th Street Dog and Dairy walk-up eatery, located just east of U.S. Highway 131 in Wyoming, opened just about its normal time of mid-April. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

44th Street Dog and Dairy, like many similar businesses, offer various styles of hotdogs, hamburgers and ice cream treats. But for the time being, they can not offer a place to sit and eat — as evidenced by the majority of his bench tables being stacked on the side of the building with only a couple available for those waiting for food.

“You can’t use those tables,” Ruark said. “I’ve been having to kick people off of them continuously. But they are very understanding. I think it is ridiculous. A family can’t event sit on the tables and eat together. They don’t want that. … I don’t love it. Especially in the summer, we have people who love to sit out here.”

And despite the current restrictions, Ruark says his business is starting pretty much as it always starts: very weather dependent.

“It is too early to tell what the impact is,” he said. “So far, I think it has been promising, maybe. It’s hard to say, the weather may have more (of an impact on business) than the restrictions.”

One thing for sure, Ruark said, his seasonal employees were ready to get back to work.

“My employees were just beating down the door, saying ‘We want work’,” he said.

44th Street Dog and Dairy is located art 521 44th St SW. For more information, visit their Facebook page @44thStreetDogandDairy.

Wyoming, Kentwood craft breweries staying positive despite ‘first to close, last to open’ concerns

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Hankerin’ for a dinner of TwoGuys Brewery’s prime rib and beer? TwoGuys managing partner, brewmaster and all-around craft-brew guru Tom Payne shows off a take-home option. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

Three Wyoming and Kentwood area craft breweries and brew pubs — TwoGuys Brewing, Broad Leaf Local Beer and Railtown Brewing Company — are doing what they can to keep their taps flowing in these times of COVID-19 restrictions.

Like most restaurants, they are offer take-out and delivery of food from their kitchens. Like most breweries, they offer to-go craft beer choices from their brewers. And like any good pub, they offer the kind of optimism that any good bartender will offer up to customers contemplating the worst over a cold pint.

Broad Leaf reports they are brewing up a Super Wonderful Happy IPA, “named to contrast the times and keep people thinking positively,” they say.

But despite a barkeep’s optimism, there is a healthy outpouring of concern about the future.

Railtown Brewing Company. (Supplied)

“It’s been a long road so far. Sadly, we’re in the early part of a marathon not a sprint,” Railtown’s Justin Buiter said to WKTV. “We were one of the first industries to see forced shutdowns and we’ll be one of the last to re-open. We’re planning for the worst and hoping for the best.”

TwoGuys also has some concerns about what might happen with a “slow opening” of establishments like theirs.

“As far as plans for when things open back up, we aren’t really sure,” TwoGuys Brewing managing partner Amy Payne said to WKTV. “We are prepared to pivot once again as necessary but have discussed that until all restrictions to regular business are lifted we will, most likely, continue to operate as we currently are. Opening our taproom at half capacity (if that should be the next phase) would definitely be detrimental to sales so keeping with the current model would keep us closer to our goal numbers.”

A bright spot has been community support  

Despite the current hardships, the three breweries have been thankful for the support of the community during these times.

“The community support has been amazing,” Railtown’s Buiter said.”We see a lot of familiar faces every week. Folks genuinely care about us and want to see us through this, and that means more than we can put into words.”

For Broad Leaf and its mother ship, Grand Rapids’ Brewery Vivant, their thankfulness includes community support of employees whose jobs were impacted by the closures.

“All gratuities at both locations are being put into an emergency fund for our hourly staff,” Broad Leaf and Brewery Vivant co-owner and president Kris Spaulding said to WKTV. “We have been amazed at how generous our community is. Through those guests, we have built up a meaningful fund that will surely help out some of our staff who are struggling.”

Broad Leaf is also being a little old-school resourceful when it comes to labeling their to-go beer cans and their brewing choices.

Broad Leaf Local Beer offers door pick-up of beer-to-go, and merchandise, at the Kentwood location. Much of the pub’s usual food fare is available through the mother ship, Grand Rapids’ Brewery Vivant, by pick-up or delivery. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“People may notice our simple war-time style labels printed on address stickers as we make do with what we have on hand,” Spaulding said. And “We have been going back to old school methods and are all pulling together to be able to share what we all love with the amazing public that has been going out of their way to support us.”

Also “Super Wonderful Happy IPA … is sort of an old-school IPA made with Mosaic and MI Chinook hops …  Bananicula is a pastry stout with Count Dracula Chocolate cereal, banana, vanilla, and marshmallow that we bottled by hand on a homebrew counter-pressure filler contraption our head brewer Jacob cobbled together.”

Man, and woman, does not live on beer alone

That adapting with the times is also at play in to-go food selections.

Much of Broad Leaf’s eclectic fare — including their appropriately named “Drunken Noodles” — is available for pick up and limited-area delivery out of Brewery Vivant’s Eastown kitchen. (The actual Broad Leaf location has curbside pick up of beer and merch, as well as beer delivery.)

TwoGuys, in contrast, has made some changes to adapt.

“In order to stay relevant in the current situation we took a look at what our guests, and hopefully folks new to TwoGuys, would be looking for as the social distancing seemed like it was going to carry on longer than officials were suggesting,” Payne said. “What we decided was, although hot take-out food is great for some, many were traveling across town to get back home if they worked near us or wanted to support us even though they lived across town. Take-out hot food just isn’t as good when it has travelled for a while. So, we began to work on ‘Take N Bake’ options.”

Currently they offer casseroles, lasagna, mac and cheese — and prime rib meals — purchased in tins ready to be put in the oven when they got home.

Desserts have also been “huge,” she said. “Pans of brownies full of all kinds of delicious additives … Nothing like brownies when the world is full of uncertainty.”

(The take-and-bake fruit cobblers looked too good to pass up when researching this story! And their TwoGuys IPA hits the pale ale spot.)

Railtown Brewing Citra Warrior IIPA. (Supplied)

At Railtown, they are open for pick-up and carryout of beer, cider and much of their regular menu food for lunch and dinner, daily except Sunday. Ordering is by phone only. And they do have some special brews unexpectedly available.

“Due to COVID-19, we had to cancel our Warrior Unleashed party which is a celebration of our Imperial IPA, Citra Warrior,” Railtown’s Buiter said. “The result is, we have a ton of beer selections on tap currently. We released 4 variations of Citra Warrior — Midnight Warrior (Black Imperial IPA), Soulless Warrior (Ginger Imperial IPA), Tiki Warrior (Pineapple Imperial IPA), and Tiki Torch (Pineapple and Cayenne Pepper Imperial IPA).”

Keeping with that barkeep’s optimism, they also have a new “Shutdown Brown”, a hazelnut brown ale.

Railtown is located at 3595 68th St. SE, in Dutton but just across the border with Kentwood. For food and beer information, call 616-881-2364 or visit railtownbrewing.com.

TwoGuys is located at 2356 Porter St. SW, in Wyoming. For food and beer information, call 616-552-9690 or visit twoguys-brewing.com.

Broad Leaf is located at 2885 Lake Eastbrook Blvd, in Kentwood. For food and beer information call 616-803-0602 or visit broadleafbeer.com.

Roadwork begins in Kentwood on 44th Street between Breton and Shaffer avenues

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The beginning of roadwork in early April on 44th Street in the City of Kentwood, headed east just before Breton Avenue. (WKTV)

WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

A Michigan Department of Transportation project has begun that will reduce 44th Street to one-lane traffic each way between Breton Avenue and Shaffer Avenue until late July.

The $1,553,000 project, according  to the City of Kentwood Public Works Department webpage, is scheduled to last from mid-April to late July.

 

The beginning of roadwork in early April on 44th Street in the City of Kentwood, headed west just before Shaffer Avenue. (WKTV)

The scope of work includes replacing the top four inches of asphalt on 44th Street from Breton to Shaffer, and replacing the intersection of Shaffer with full depth concrete, according to information provided to WKTV. Traffic will be maintained with a single lane in each direction throughout the project.

A construction notice was mailed to all residents that live adjacent to that section of 44th Street.

 

For more information on City of Kentwood road construction projects, visit here.

County health department launches home screening app to spot COVID-19 hotspots

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

In an effort to obtain information to track potential COVID-19 hotspots in Kent County, the county health department today launched a new web-based survey for residents — keepmihealthy.org.

The “secure, anonymous, web-based survey” — which does not required an app download — will provide health officials with “valuable data that could potentially identify future COVID-19 ‘hot spots’ in Kent County,” according to the announcement.

“Our ability to respond to this pandemic depends upon timely, accurate, and multi-sourced data,” Kent County Health Department Director Adam London said in supplied material. “The information gathered through this survey will provide us with an additional layer of data to make strategic decisions on how we use our resources.”

Local technology company OST, which started in Grand Rapids in 1997 but now has a worldwide footprint, actually came to Kent County with the idea.

“We would like to thank local technology developer OST for turning this community health screening concept into reality,” London said. “Without being asked, they identified a need, reached out to us and other community partners, and quickly developed an easy-to-use and effective screening tool.”

The survey questions are simple — as simple as “Are you experiencing any of the COVID-19 symptoms or not?”

To complete the survey, residents will be asked to answer four personal identification questions including year of birth, gender, county, and zip code.

All data will be kept confidential and housed in a secure database, according to the announcement. Under licensed agreements, health care professionals, hospitals, and local health departments will have access to the anonymous data to learn more about the community’s health in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID- 19.

To complete the survey, go to keepmihealthy.org/ and click “Get Started!”

Upon completion, residents can optionally provide their mobile phone number to receive a daily text reminder to take the survey.

“By taking the survey daily, it will ensure health officials are making decisions based on the most current information available,” according to the statement.

To learn more, review the frequently asked questions document at keepmihealthy.org/faq.

A Spanish version of the application will be released shortly.

Timely World Affairs Council April discussion series examines ‘Future of Work’

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In these days of COVID-19 restrictions, work from home has never been more common. (Public Domain)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

During the COVID-19 pandemic, two things have defined the American — and the world’s — job market: rampant unemployment and the explosion of work-from-home. That, and the already emerging changes due to interconnected world job markets and automation in the workplace, are profoundly changing the future of work.

 

So the World Affairs Council of West Michigan’s now virtual-only spring lecture series is perfectly timed as it looks at “The Future of Work” with three Tuesday evening lectures discussing the future workforce and workplace changes in a changing world.

“The Future of Work” series, presented in partnership with the Kent District Library, will start with the reality that “COVID-19 creates a ‘new normal’ in all aspects of our lives, including the economy and work,” according to World Affairs Council statement.

Set to start the series on Tuesday, April 14, Kristin Sharp, a partner with Entangled Solutions, out of Washington, D.C., will speak on “Global Trends Shaping the Future of Work”.

Following discussions will be April 21, as a panel led by moderator Attah Obande, “Director of Dream Fulfillment” at Spring GR, discuses “Entrepreneurs’ Experiences in the Changing Economy: Local Perspectives”.

Grand Rapids Community College President Bill Pink (GRCC)

Finally, on April 28,Dr. Bill Pink, president of Grand Rapids Community College, will discuss “Working Together for Growth in West Michigan: Industry and Education”.

The premier of each discussion will be 6:30-7:30 p.m. each Tuesday and can be attended for free via the World Affair’s Council’s YouTube page for an “interactive conversation” as there will be the ability to send questions during the live presentations. All the discussions will be available afterwards as archived videos.

“Globalization. Automation. Underemployment and the gig economy. What are the trends that have been shaping patterns of work?” the World Affairs Council states about the series. “How will government, industry, and educators respond to the new opportunities and challenges created by change? Just as importantly, how do people imagine new possibilities in their local roles as workers and citizens in a global and tech-driven economy, so that we can positively affect the future of work?”

Details of the discussion leaders

Kristin Sharp. (Supplied)

Kristin Sharp, as a partner with Entangled Studios, is “focused on building out the future of work, automation, and ed/workforce technologies portfolio,” according to her company’s webpage biography. Prior to joining the company, she co-founded the Shift Commission and launched the ShiftLabs and Work, Workers, and Technology projects at New America, examining the impact of automation and AI on the workforce. Earlier in her career, she worked in technology, innovation, and national security policy in the U.S. Senate, working in senior staff roles for senators and committees on both sides of the political aisle.

Attah Obande, of SpringGR. (Supplied)

Attah Obande works for Spring GR, “a grassroots business training experience that uses the business model canvas (think of it like a road map for starting a business) to help entrepreneurs develop their business idea or business,” according to the company’s website. Over the course of 12 weeks, the group brings people together in small groups, teach the business process, and provide coaching. … For two years following graduation, SpringGR “acts as a bridge to connect graduates to other resources throughout Grand Rapids to further grow and develop their businesses.”

For a WKTV story on SpringGR, visit here. For a WKTV video interview, visit here.

Dr. Bill Pink is the  tenth president of Grand Rapids Community College, starting in 2017. He has been an educator for over 25 years, including as Vice President for Academic Affairs at Oklahoma State University (Oklahoma City.) and he has taught and/or coached in Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Oregon. He has an Associate’s Degree from York College (Nebraska), a Bachelor’s from Oklahoma Christian University, a Master’s from the University of Central Oklahoma, and a Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma.

State of Michigan reports: AG says craft stores not ‘essential’; there are jobs to be had

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JoAnn Fabrics had asked that the business’s storefront operations be allowed. The state said it was not “essential”. (Public Domain Photo)

By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

The State of Michigan, like most governmental agencies, puts out press releases to media sources on a wide-range of issues almost daily. Some are important for the public to know; some are just routine governmental business. Some make the news and some do not.

We at WKTV have decided that in these times of COVID-19, of often-filtered news, we’d let the state departments say what they want to say to the pubic a little more directly. Following are links to State of Michigan releases from Tuesday, March 31 — with a little emphasis given by our staff on what we found interesting.

More than 2,000 Michigan companies hiring now

There is a lot of businesses shutting down temporary and laying off workers. But, according to the state, Michigan companies need to fill thousands of critical, immediate vacancies to support work during the COVID-19 pandemic, including those in logistics, healthcare, manufacturing and agribusiness industries.

“Michiganders are tough and hardworking, especially in times of crisis,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in the release. “Tens of thousands of open jobs are available right now with more than 2,000 Michigan companies and organizations hiring to continue providing critical services.”

Read the entire release here.

State denies craft store in-store operations are essential

What is essential business and what is not in these times of COVID-19 restrictions? You would probably get some argument from crafters, but Michigan’s Attorney General says craft stores are not an essential business, which allows them to be open and people to visit.

Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office on Monday sent a letter to JoAnn Fabrics indicating the business’s storefront operations should be temporarily suspended while Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s order remains in place for non-essential businesses to close.

“I can appreciate the desire of businesses that want to remain open and provide their customers with the same products and services they have come to expect from these retailers, but there must be common sense protections in place during this global health emergency,” Nessel said in the release.

Read the entire release here.

Other March 31 releases, listed by headlines and with links, include:

Department of Education requests federal waiver for child nutrition programs

AG’s office: sharing health info with first responders is critical — and legal

Crowded conditions close Tippy Dam Recreation Area; more closures likely

State accepting donations to aid COVID-19 response and recovery

Self-employed, low-wage earners to also benefit from Michigan’s new unemployment aid rules

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Hard News, Local Business,
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (shown in a 2019 event) this week signed into effect new unemployment aid rules. (Michigan Air National Guard).

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

The State of Michigan has changed the rules for unemployment benefits to not only increase and expand benefits forWKTVworkers now unemployed by COVID-19’s economic impact but to expand benefits to self-employed and low-wage workers.

According to a March 30 statement from the state government, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, acting as provided by the new federal CARES Act, signed an agreement between Michigan and the U.S. Dept. of Labor to implement Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and Compensation programs that grant benefits to workers who do not already qualify for state unemployment benefits.

According to the statement, workers include self-employed, 1099-independent contractors, gig, and low-wage workers who can no longer work because of the pandemic. The agreement also increases weekly benefits for all unemployed workers by $600 a week for up to four months and extends benefit payments from 26 to 39 weeks.

“This increase and expansion of unemployment benefits will provide a measure of security for Michigan working families who lost their income due to the pandemic,” Gov. Whitmer said in supplied material. “We are committed to ensuring emergency financial relief for unemployed residents who continue to stay home and stay safe.”

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters also issued a statement on March 30 detailing the expanded benefits, saying that the federal act put into effect by the the governor will “ensure workers – including those who are self-employed and work in the gig economy – have the resources to get through this crisis.”

According to Sen. Peter’s office, “the program will be particularly helpful for those workers who are self-employed or without sufficient work history to qualify for regular unemployment insurance. … (and) it will eliminate the typical weeklong waiting period between applying for and receiving unemployment assistance.”

In addition to individuals whose employers closed due to COVID-19’s economic impact, workers who qualify for assistance under the program include:

Individuals who have the virus, need to self-quarantine to protect themselves and cannot reach their place of employment, or are caring for someone with the disease.

Individuals who must care for a child because of a school closure.

Individuals who are working reduced hours due to the virus.

Rules and suggestions for applying

The following summary of the new rules and information is drawn from both state and federal supplied material:

Under the CARES Act, weekly benefits for all unemployed workers will be increased by a set amount of $600 a week for up to four months.

The additional benefit amount applies to workers already in the unemployment system and eligible employees about to apply. These workers do not need to reapply and those about to apply do not need to take additional steps and should file as usual. If a worker’s application has previously been denied by the UIA in the past three weeks there is no need for them to reapply at this time. They will be notified by the agency with any additional action that may need to be taken.

Workers should apply online at Michigan.gov/UIA and utilize a new filing schedule based on their last name. Workers are encouraged to go online during off-peak times between 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The day or time of day in which a claim is filed will not impact whether a worker receives benefits or their benefit amount. Additionally, claims will be back-dated to reflect the date in which a claimant was laid-off or let go from their job due to COVID-19. The eligibility window to apply has also been increased from 14 to 28 days from the date of their work stoppage.

The state asks workers to file on-line or via the phone — at 866-500-0017 — on set days.

For on-line filing, last names beginning with letters A-L are asked to file claims on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays. Last names beginning with letters M-Z are asked to file claims on Sundays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays. Saturdays will be available for anyone to accommodate those who could not file during their allotted window.

 

For state call center filing, last names beginning with letters A-L are asked to call on Mondays and Wednesdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Last names beginning with letters M-Z are asked to call on Tuesdays and Thursdays also 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays (8 a.m.– 5 p.m.) will be available for anyone to accommodate those who could not file during their allotted window.

For more information visit Michigan.gov/UIA.

Benefits and administrative costs associated with this program are federally funded through the federal unemployment insurance trust fund. The program is administered by state unemployment offices.

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

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Recreation,
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 and Kent County honored for Patterson Avenue and 44th Street airport access project

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At the Patterson Avenue and 44th Street project site, from left, KCRC Project Engineer Eric Rodegher, Kentwood Director of Engineering and Inspections Tim Bradshaw and KCRC Engineering Inspector Sean McKean. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The Michigan Concrete Association has recognized the City of Kentwood and the Kent County Road Commission with an Award of Excellence for the agencies’ joint project at the intersection of Patterson Avenue and 44th Street, according to the City of Kentwood.

The project’s goal was to improve traffic flow throughout the heavily traveled intersection, which serves as the entrance to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

Completed in August 2019, the two-month project widened sections of both roads to provide dual left-turn lanes from eastbound 44th Street to northbound Patterson Avenue. The intersection’s north and west approaches were also reconstructed, receiving new full-depth concrete surfaces.

“To keep pace with the growth of Kentwood and the airport, additional lane capacity was achieved to improve commuting times for motorists at this critical intersection,” Tim Bradshaw, City of Kentwood Director of Engineering and Inspections, said in supplied material.

The award was presented during the Michigan Concrete Association 2020 Winter Conference and Workshop on Thursday, Feb. 13, in East Lansing. A competitive awards program, Kentwood and KCRC’s joint project was one of 25 that were recognized among the more than 45 projects that were submitted, according to the city.


“The new full-depth concrete pavement will serve this heavily traveled intersection for many years, reducing any future traffic impacts to the thousands of travelers who use the airport,” Dan DeGraaf, MCA executive director, said in supplied material. “The airport, city and county should be proud of the welcoming gateway that this intersection provides to visitors and motorists alike.”

Contractor Kamminga & Roodvoet completed the road improvements and Strain Electric performed the necessary traffic signal upgrades. Because of the intersection’s high traffic volumes and demand, the project was completed while maintaining two-way traffic and left turns at all times.

“This project is an excellent example of multi-agency collaboration,” Wayne Harrall, KCRC deputy managing director of engineering, said in supplied material. “Not only did Kentwood, the road commission and the contractors work together to complete a high-quality project, but the airport also provided critical support and communication that helped thousands of daily motorists safely navigate the work zone daily.”

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.

Grand Rapids Boat Show runs Feb. 19-23 at Grand Rapids’ DeVos Place

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A sea of boats will be on display at the Grand Rapids Boat Show. (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

The Grand Rapids Boat Show not only turns 75 this year but is also Michigan’s longest running show. And it will return to DeVos Place in Grand Rapids this week, running Wednesday, Feb. 19, through Sunday, Feb. 23.

The Grand Rapids Boat Show started in 1946 as the West Michigan Sportland Boat Show in the Welsh Auditorium, with less than 25,000 square feet of space, according to supplied material. It is now 250,000 square feet (5.74 acres) of display space throughout the main exhibition halls, Steelcase Ballroom, Grand Gallery and Grand River Overlook where more than 400 boats from over 100 manufacturers and 35 dealers are displayed side-by-side.

Classic and antique boats are also part of the Grand Rapids Boat Show. (Supplied)

“The boaters of the Great Lakes State have embraced this grand tradition every winter for 75 years and this year they’ll find everything from aluminum fishing boats and personal watercrafts, to pro style ski and bass boats, luxury pontoon boats, runabouts, deck boats and big boats like yachts and cruisers … including the 42’ Regal Grande Coupe, recognized as this year’s ‘Queen of the Show’,” event promotional material states.


Other special features at the boat show include:

Twiggy, the Water Skiing Squirrel, performing daily.

Appearances by Pro Wakeboarders & Wakesurfers.

Vintage & wooden boats from Water Wonderland Chapter of Antique & Classic Boat Society.

The pop-up Lake Life Boutique featuring specialized food, drinks, live music and kids’ activities.

An opportunity to suit up and try out the SCUBA Dive Tank presented by Great Lakes Dive Locker.

A Boater Safety Certification (Saturday only) presented by the Kent County Sheriff’s Department Marine Division.

Gizmo D. Robot as he strolls the show, visiting with kids of all ages.

 
DeVos Place is located at 303 Monroe St. NE, Grand Rapids. Ticket are $12 adults, $5 children aged 6 to 14. Kids 5 and under are admitted free.

There is close-by parking beneath DeVos Place, across the street and connected by skywalk. There is also a complimentary trolley available; park in the Dash Lot Area 9 on Seward ($2 total) and hop aboard the trolley which will be making runs on an 8-minute loop for an hour before the show opens to an hour after the show closes each day.

For more information visit here.

Gov. Whitmer’s road bond plan discussed at Chamber’s WKTV Government Matters meeting

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WKTV offers on-demand viewing of the Wyoming and Kentwood high school sports, community events, and government meetings. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

Local state legislators, and leaders from the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming, weighed in on Gov. Gretchen Whitmer plan to borrow $3.5 billion to rebuild the state’s deteriorating highways and bridges over a 5-year span, as part of a wide-ranging inter-governmental leaders meeting Monday, Feb. 10, at the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum at Wyoming City Hall.

The Democratic governor unveiled the bonding plan during her second annual State of the State speech to lawmakers. It will enable the state Department of Transportation to do about twice as much construction on I-, U.S.- and M-numbered routes as it can now, she said in her speech. The funds would not be used to repair local roads.

But it was near unanimous opposition to, or at least serious questioning of, the Governor’s plan from local officials.

State Sen. Peter MacGregor (R), in part, pointed out that “bonding for the roads is not a solution” and compared such a plan to “financing the roads by putting it on credit cards.” While State Rep. Steve Johnson (R) said that when it comes to government financing “it is really easy to get into debt and really hard to get out.”

Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and Wyoming Mayor Pro-Tem Sam Bolt also voiced their concerns.

Mayor Kepley said, in part, that “this is not long-term planning,” and Bolt pointed out that the increased state road work “doesn’t do any good for Wyoming” as it not have any funding for city roads.

Other discussion topics at the meeting included Kent County recycling efforts and the issue of drivers license documentation for undocumented immigrants.

The meeting, as always, was hosted by chamber member and moderator Kathy Batey and chamber president Bob O’Callaghan. The intergovernmental discussion hosted by the chamber focuses on issues that effect residents and businesses in the two cities.

The Government Matters meeting brings together representatives from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, Kent County commissioners, local Michigan state senators and representatives, as well as often representatives of Michigan’s U.S. senators and U.S. congressman who represent the Wyoming and Kentwood area.

At the February meeting, state leaders also included Rep. Tommy Brann. On the federal level, the panel included Peter Dickow, West Michigan Regional Director for U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, and Brian Patrick, communications director for federal Rep. Bill Huizenga (Michigan Congressional District 2).

The Government Matters meeting is rebroadcast on WKTV’s channels and on-demand website (wktvlive.com). This month’s meeting is available here.

The next meeting will be March 9, from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., at Wyoming City Hall.

For more information about the chamber and Government Matters visit southkent.org.

The meetings are on the second Monday of each month, starting at 8 a.m. WKTV Journal will produce a highlight story after the meeting. But WKTV also offers replays of the latest meeting on Wednesdays at 7 p.m., as well as on select Saturdays, on Comcast Cable Government Channel 26. For a highlight schedule of WKTV cable programs visit WKTVjournal.org.

Kent County recycling center to temporarily close for paper recycling separation upgrades

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Recycling Education also occurs at the Kent County Recycling & Education Center. (Kent County)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

Kent County announced this week that Kent County Recycling & Education Center at 977 Wealthy St. SW will be closed and unable to accept recyclable materials from both curbside and public drop-off locations for processing while new equipment is installed.

The equipment upgrades will “improve efficiency and quality by replacing the mechanical screens used to sort paper,” according to supplied material. Renovations will take place starting Monday, Feb. 24 and last until approximately Friday, March 13, according to the county.

During that period, there will be no recycling accepted by the county — from citizens at the downtown and north county transfer facilities, or by contract trash haulers who also collect recycling — a county spokesperson confirmed to WKTV.

(WKTV)

“We are giving advance notice to ensure residents can get as much of their existing recycling picked up and recycled before the February 24 temporary closure,” Dar Baas, director of Kent County Department of Public Works, said in supplied material. “We understand this is inconvenient but it’s necessary to ensure we can continue to be a reliable processor of recyclables for the region.”

According to the county, paper accounts for 70 percent of the processed material at the recycling center. In 2019, the center processed 16,692 tons of paper product, the equivalent of 283,764 trees, according to the county. The facility sorts out at least a truckload of paper every day. The screens used to sort paper are original equipment from when the center opened in 2010 and have run for over 30,000 operational hours.

Recycling is an ever-changing technology. And Kent County’s recycling system is changing. (Supplied)

“Periodic upgrades and renovations, like the replacement of our paper screens, ensure the recycling facility is up-to-date and can efficiently and reliably process clean materials for recycling markets,” Nic VanderVinne, Resource Recovery & Recycling Manager for the Kent County Department of Public Works, said in supplied material. “The Kent County Recycling & Education Center allows residents to conveniently recycle materials with a single-stream sorting process, that requires we have screens to automate the sorting process for materials like glass, metal, plastic and paper.”

The Kent County Recycling & Education Center is approaching its 10th year of single-stream recycling. Over the past decade, the center has undergone periodic maintenance and upgrades to adapt to changes in community recycling habits and packaging trends. In 2017, Kent County added equipment to accept paper cartons and improve automation.

“The recycling industry has changed significantly in the past few years due to increased global import restrictions,” Baas said in supplied material. “It’s imperative we make improvements to keep producing a high-quality product in a very competitive domestic market.”

For any updates and more information on the temporary closure visit reimaginetrash.org or call 616-632-7945.

On Tap: Mitten Brewing toasts Sen. Peters assistance, where to sample craft liquors locally

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Mitten Brewing Co. north, in Northport in the Traverse Bay area, will be a great place to stop by — summer or winter. (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

It is unclear which Grand Rapids area craft brew U.S. Sen. Gary Peters likes to order when he makes a stop in the area, but he probably has one on the house coming from Mitten Brewing Company.

Thanks to some federal-level advocacy from Sen. Peters’ office, Mitten Brewing Co. has a new Traverse Bay area craft brewing brewery and pub after Chris Andrus, co-owner and co-founder of the Mitten Brewing Co., was able to expedite a license from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, shown with Sen. Joni Ernst at Washington, D.C.’s annual Rolling Thunder First Amendment Demonstration Run in 2018 (Supplied)

The story, as given by Sen. Peters’ office recently, is that Mitten Brewing Co. discovered that a brewery in Northport, Mich., was going out of business and “They saw this as an opportunity to expand their brewery as well as protect the jobs of those employees. In order to do so, Mitten Brewing Co. needed to obtain their licensing quickly from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau to open in time for the (past) summer season.”


 
Andrus reached out to Sen. Peters’ office for help, we are told, and “The office helped cut red tape for Mitten Brewing Co. by contacting the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau regarding the brewery’s licensing application. Chris soon thereafter received approval for the necessary license. The Northport location was able to open in time and is now a thriving part of the Northern Michigan community.”

Don’t know about you, but I love Mitten Brewing’ local locales and brews. Maybe I’ll buy the senator one next time we belly-up to the bar together.

Mitten Brewing’s Andrus shared his story in a video released by Sen. Peters’ office, and can be seen here.

Sen. Peters office states that Michiganders in need of assistance with a federal agency to contact his Detroit office at (844) 506-7420 (toll-free) or can visit his website at peters.senate.gov.

Grand Rapids, regional distillery choices growing all the time

It is no secret that Michigan is a booming market for craft distilled liqueurs, but the quality of Grand Rapids area, or nearby, sources might surprise you as much as they continue to surprise me.

In Grand Rapids, there is Long Road Distillers, with cocktails, small-bites, and bottles to-go are available — you can also take a tour for a behind-the-scenes look at the distilling process and get to know what is in your glass from a distilling expert.

Eastern Kille (once known a Grey Skies, FYI) has a downtown tasting room to sample their whiskey, gin, or coffee liqueur. A seasonally revolving menu of cocktails are available to highlight the spirits made onsite.

Nearby, in the great day-trip location of Saugatuck, the New Holland Spirits offer tasting flights and cocktails made with award-winning spirits, along with light snacks and a retail area with bottles to go. Holland, too makes a good stop as Coppercraft Distillery not only has small batch cocktails but an extensive dining menu.

And in the summer, when you are really in the mood for a road trip to the Traverse Bay area, we are told “Michigan’s oldest award-winning ‘Grain to Bottle’ Craft Distillery” is Grand Traverse Distillery. Grand Traverse Distillery distills all of their vodkas, whiskies, gin, and rum in a 1,100 liter Holstein twin column copper reflux pot still.

And I can personally vouch for the idea of getting a “Latitude Adjustment” at Northern Latitudes Distillery in Lake Leelanau, where their gin is to die for and their limoncello — aptly named Limoncello di Leelanau — is worth living for. The tasting room is open seven days a week, and tastings are free and you can buy your favorite selection by the bottle and/or have it mixed into an incredible cocktail.

OK, sharing a bottle of Northern Latitudes is a good reason to spend the night or weekend out of town.

Learn more about the Michigan small batch spirit producers and distilleries by visiting the website of the Michigan Craft Distillers Association.

Exalta Health gains Kent County’s Women’s Health Network Contract

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Exalta Health provides health care to an underserved population at two clinics, one in the 2000 block of Division Avenue. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org


A new contract between Exalta Health and the Kent County’s Women’s Health Network will benefit both Exalta Health and its patients. Exalta Health is located at 2060 Division Ave. S., Grand Rapids, but serves patients from Wyoming and Kentwood as well.


The Women’s Health Network program contracts with 30 medical sites in Kent, Muskegon, Barry and Ottawa counties to offer the Breast and Cervical Cancer Control and Navigation (BCCCN) program, according to supplied material. This is both a national and State of Michigan program that offers free mammograms, clinical breast exams, Pap smears and pelvic exams to women who qualify, as well as follow-up care, medical referrals and cancer treatment.


Through this new contract, which could be worth up to $20,000, Exalta Health becomes one of those 30 sites and those critical and often life-saving exams will be made available to its patients with the contract now covering the costs.


Exalta Health’s Andrea Cervantes said in supplied material that the organization has offered these tests in the past, but essentially took a loss on them. The new contract means Exalta Health will not only be able to provide the tests but also will break even in doing so. For a small nonprofit that depends on donations to fund its services, access to a fund is a big deal.


In addition, access to the funds means Exalta Health will be able to serve more of its patients who need these exams and will be able to work with its patients in a more direct and more proactive way to make sure critical exams and screenings aren’t being missed.


“We’re really grateful to the Kent County Women’s Health Network,” said Cervantes, a registered nurse. “This grant is going to allow us to serve our patients better and serve more of them. We see a lot of female patients at Exalta Health, so BCCCN is really important to them and to us.”

For more information visit exaltahealth.org or accesskent.com.

Innovation, old and new, at heart of this weekend’s 2020 Michigan International Auto Show

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Sports cars, along with SUVs and trucks, are expected to be the big draw at the 2020 Michigan International Auto Show , as they were last year in this photo. (Supplied)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

People attend the annual Michigan International Auto Show, running this week at the DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids, for many reasons, including to find their next new car or just to get a glimpse of the muscle car or luxury car they’ve always dreamed about.

Many people, however, go to see what’s next in automobile technology or innovation — from space-age rear-view camera systems, to self-driving and self-parking features that almost make the driver a passenger.

But when it comes to innovation and new technology, it could be argued that one must understand, and appreciate, the past to fully embrace the future.

And so it is only logical that the Gilmore Car Museum will be on-hand with a display called “The History of Station Wagons”, which showcases vehicles which may be out of vogue today but were often considered innovative if not technological marvels of their time.

The Gilmore Car Museum’s 1950 Skyline Deluxe Station Wagon at the Michigan International Auto Show. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

“I always think it is very important for people to appreciate the new but also to look back and go ‘Mmmm? How did we get here?’,” Jay Follis, Gilmore Car Museum marketing director, said to WKTV on Jan. 29 at a media preview. “Today we have SUVs and crossovers. We do not think of station wagons. The auto industry has actually said ‘We are not going to produce sedans any more.’ So we decided we are going to bring station wagons to the auto show to tell people where we have been and how we got here.

The Gilmore Car Museum’s Jay Follis, marketing director. (WLTV/K.D. Norris)

“We’ve got a 1919, one of the first station wagons. It was nothing more than to pick you up at the train station. … all the way up to a muscle car that is actually a station wagon (and an Indy 500 pace car). … A lot of the cars we have on display here, and a lot more at the museum, have their own unique innovations.”

The presence of the Gilmore Care Museum is nothing new for the auto show, too.

“We come down to the car show every year, 15 years now,” Follis said. “Our mission is to evoke memories and tell great stories … We are only 50 miles south of Grand Rapids and we are North America’s largest auto museum. So this is a perfect place to introduce people to auto history and the car museum.”

The new cars on display by the Grand Rapids New Car Dealers Association will include spectrum of sedans, vans, hybrids and sports cars, but the field will be dominated by Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and trucks, the two biggest sellers, according to the association.

One of the Million Dollar Motorway cars on display at the 2020 Michigan International Auto Show. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)

Among the highlights of this year’s auto show is the latest in automotive technology by Gentex, a Michigan based company which develops and manufactures “custom high-tech electronic products for the automotive, aerospace, and commercial fire protection industries.” Also returning, and always worth drooling over, is the Million Dollar Motorway, featuring luxury brand cars this year valued at $4.5 million collectively.

And, as shown during the media preview, some of the new technologies — and all the luxury brand cars — are nothing short of amazing.

The 22nd Annual Michigan International Auto Show will open to the pubic Thursday, Jan. 30 and run through Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 2 — 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday (to be over in time for the big game, of course).

Thursday, Jan. 30 is also a special First Responders Day, with free admission for active EMS, fire, police, public safety, U.S. Coast Guard and other active military and retired veterans who can show valid I.D., badge or other verification.

Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children 6-14. Kids 5 and under are admitted free.

There is parking beneath DeVos Place, across the street and nearby but connected by the skywalk. Be aware, though, of “Hamilton: An American Musical” also playing at DeVos. For more information on parking and directions visit here. You can also take the complimentary trolley by parking in the Dash Lot Area 9 (on Seward Avenue) for $2 and hop aboard the Trolley which will be making runs on an 8-minute loop for an hour before the show opens to an hour after the show closes each day.

For more information about the 22nd Annual Michigan International Auto Show visit here.

Busy Kathey Batey — WKTV volunteer, chamber moderator, etc. — honored for mediation work

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Kathey Batey in the WKTV studios talking about her various counseling and mediation and training efforts. (WKTV)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org

Kathey Batey is known for many things in the West Michigan community, including as an on-air volunteer at WKTV and as moderator of several Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce programs including its Government Matters.

But her day job — and her passion — is helping people overcome hardships as a domestic relations councilor and meditator.

That passion, late last year, earned her an award as Volunteer Meditator of the Year as part of the Dispute Resolution Center of Western Michigan 2019 Peacemaker Awards.

While she has a history in counseling and public speaking, in the last decade she has focused on mediation.

“My interest (in mediation) began when a man in my support group (Divorce Support Anonymous) about nine years ago, stated his legal fees were $129,000 and he wasn’t done with his divorce yet,” Batey said to WKTV. “I was so taken aback, since divorce is destructive enough for the individuals, the family, and especially the children, why should they devastate their finances as well?

“I had heard of mediation so I set out to find out how. I went through mediation training eight years ago and, since, have found mediation as a wonderful challenge that helps people, giving them control over their future with the power to self-determination of their future. And it saves them a lot of money. They can mediate with an attorney or on their own. When they mediate on their own I always advise they have an attorney review it prior to signing. Because the Mediation Agreement is legally binding.”

Also honored at the event, held in October 2019, was Grand Rapid Mayor Rosalyn Bliss.

The Dispute Resolution Center, at the time of the award ceremony, said of Batey:

“Kathey specializes in domestic relations mediation. She has been mediating with the Center since 2012 and has donated over 500 hours of her time. Her passion and dedication shine though everything she does. One recent mediation participant summed it up in her post-mediation survey, ‘I was appreciative of Kathey’s demeanor, skill in facilitation, and ability to keep on task . . . She was thorough and compassionate.’ Kathey is committed to helping those who find themselves faced with Divorce.”

The kind words from the center at the time of the award was an honor, Batey said.

“To be recognized for your commitment to this valuable organization and recognized for your skill as a mediator is very rewarding,” she said. “I believe in their cause and they provide mediation services on a sliding scale, the most it will be is $150 per person for 3 hours. So those without a lot of means can get these services and minimize legal costs.

“Plus, the only way to truly be skilled in any profession is to work at your skill continuously. There is a lot to know in the many facets of divorce. There are the individual needs, self-determination, financial issues, co-parenting children, the law, critical thinking. The art and science of a good question, discipline of the mind, dealing with multiple personalities, managing fears, tears and still maintaining professionalism.”

 

For Batey, however, there is also a very simple, and personal, reason for her mediation work with the Dispute Resolution Center and on her own — a reason that makes her earning a Peacemaker Award all the more fitting.

“It is a part of my giving back into the world,”, she said, referencing the biblical passage “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)

The Dispute Resolution Center, also at the time of the Peacemaker Awards ceremony, said of Mayor Bliss:

“Bliss is the first woman mayor of Grand Rapids, MI.  In honor of United Nations International Day of Peace, she declared September 21, 2019 as the International Day of Peace in Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids Public Schools participated in activities throughout the week in honor of the occasion. The Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan is all about helping to create community and repairing broken relationships.  Mayor Bliss understands that,  ‘[H]aving a safe community is critical to our success, and that requires our continued commitment to strengthen community-police relations,’ Bliss said. ‘This requires building a strong foundation of trust between community members and our police officers.’”

For more information on the Dispute Resolution Center of Western Michigan, visit drcwm.org.

Batey is the author of “Suddenly Single: Rebuilding Your Life After Divorce” and, among other projects, is the founder of Divorce Support Anonymous. For more information on Batey and her other efforts, visit StayMarriedAmerica.com and/or spiritedpresentations.com.

Right Place leader Klohs, Ambassador Huntsman honored at World Affairs Council event

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The World Affairs Council of Western Michigan’s annual luncheon at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel Tuesday, Jan. 14. (Supplied/World Affairs Council)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

Birgit Klohs, president and CEO of The Right Place, Inc., was at the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan annual luncheon to be honored with the group’s locally-focused inaugural Hillman-Orr Award, at the same event when the inaugural Vandenberg Prize for work on the world stage was presented.

The Vandenberg Prize was given to retired Ambassador Jon M. Huntsman at the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan’s annual luncheon at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel Tuesday, Jan. 14. (Supplied/World Affairs Council)


The Vandenberg Prize went to retired Ambassador Jon M. Huntsman, who was honored in person at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, where a large crowd was in attendance Tuesday, Jan. 14.


But Klohs, who was raised in post-war Germany, spoke poignantly in her acceptance speech about Michigan Sen. Arthur Vandenberg (1881-1951), who forged bipartisan support for the Marshall Plan and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and was appointed one of the first U.S. delegates to the then new United Nations.


“I grew up in the safety of NATO. I grew up with … (a German economy) predicated on the Marshall Plan,” Klohs said as she accepted her award but also honored the Vandenberg legacy. “So for that, every time I walk by the (senator’s) statue (near Rosa Parks Circle), I salute a little ‘Thank you’.”
But Klohs’ path of learning about the man who was a key figure in the Marshall Plan and NATO was not simple.

The World Affairs Council of Western Michigan’s Hillman-Orr Award was presented to Birgit Klohs, president and CEO of The Right Place, Inc., by Renee Tappen, market president for Bank of America. (Supplied/World Affairs Council)


Hank Meijer “wrote the definitive book on a senator I’d never heard of when I moved here,” Klohs said. “When I first met Hank, many years ago, he said to me ‘Birgit, there needs to be a Vandenberg Square in Germany.’ And I’m like ‘Who is Vandenberg?’ Another Dutch guy? And he’s like ‘No. Let me tell you about Senator Vandenberg.’


“And I was stunned. Growing up in Germany, in a divided Germany, we always lived in the shadow of the Soviet Union. Right? We all learned about the Marshall fund, and how it helped West Germany and the rest of Europe get back on its feet. Learned about NATO. But I’d never heard of the senator who was really the person behind the scenes the made the Marshall fund happen, who made NATO happen, who made the UN happen.


“And who brought along senators who were isolationists. (Other senators) who said ‘It is 1945, we won the war. We all go home and be done with it and leave those Europeans to themselves.’ But he (Vandenberg) had learned that after World War I, that didn’t work. He, who was an isolationist himself, became a globalist. And, frankly, we could use more globalists today.”


Vandenberg was also the inspiration for founding the local World Affairs Council in 1949 by Grand Rapids attorney (and later Federal Judge) Douglas Hillman and businessman Edgar Orr, for whom the Hillman-Orr Award was named, according to the council.


The Hillman-Orr Award was presented to Klohs by Renee Tappen, market president for Bank of America.


“There is likely nobody in this room who has not heard from Birgit Klohs on the importance of global economic ties between West Michigan and world partners,” Tappen said. “Under her leadership, as the CEO of 32 years, The Right Place has created 47,000 new jobs and spurred nearly 5 billion dollars in new investment in our local the economy.


“Birgit is a leading economic development strategist, collaborates with our local, our national and our state government on critical issues related to economic development.”


Klohs, however, pointed out that much of her work is encouraging local leaders to embrace internationalism, in business and in all things.


“I also wanted to spread the word in our region, that embracing international, that embracing people from other parts of the world, will enrich us. It does not make us poorer, it makes us richer,” she said. “And that, in fact, your competition today is no longer in Iowa or Indiana. But it is in Mexico. And it is in India. And it is in China.


“The more we embrace that competition, we will be stronger as a region for it. And so, the World Affairs Council has really modeled this thinking for the last 70 years. … It has always been the strength of this community to gather and embrace new thoughts.”

The entire award ceremony is available on YouTube at this link.

Local government leaders look ahead to 2020 at Chamber’s WKTV Government Matters meeting

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At the Jan. 13 Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum at Wyoming City Hall were chamber member and moderator Kathy Bates, chamber president Bob O’Callaghan, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

Local governmental leaders — from the mayors of Wyoming and Kentwood, to a county commissioner and state legislators, to representatives of federal officials — looked ahead to 2020 as part of a wide-ranging inter-governmental leaders meeting Monday, Jan. 13. at the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum at Wyoming City Hall.

The meeting, as always, was hosted by chamber member and moderator Kathy Batey and chamber president Bob O’Callaghan. The intergovernmental discussion hosted by the chamber focuses on issues that effect residents and businesses in the two cities.

The Government Matters meeting brings together representatives from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, Kent County commissioners, local Michigan state senators and representatives, as well as often representatives of Michigan’s U.S. senators and U.S. congressman who represent the Wyoming and Kentwood area.

At the January meeting, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley and Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll represented their cities. Kent County Commissioner Monica Sparks was also present. State leaders included Sen. Peter MacGregor and Reps. Tommy Brann and Steven Johnson.

On the federal level, the panel included Brian Patrick, communications director for federal Rep. Bill Huizenga (Michigan Congressional District 2), and Peter Dickow, West Michigan Regional Director for U.S. Sen. Gary Peters.

The Government Matters meeting is rebroadcast on WKTV’s channels and on-demand website (wktvlive.com). This month’s meeting is available here.

The next meeting will be Feb. 10, from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., at Wyoming City Hall.

For more information about the chamber and Government Matters visit southkent.org.

The meetings are on the second Monday of each month, starting at 8 a.m. WKTV Journal will produce a highlight story after the meeting. But WKTV also offers replays of the latest meeting on Wednesdays at 7 p.m., as well as on select Saturdays, on Comcast Cable Government Channel 26. For a highlight schedule of WKTV cable programs visit wktvjournal.org.

WKTV In Focus podcast of Community Conversation on Immigration available on-demand

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WKTV Journal In Focus’s audio only podcast of a Community Conversation on Homelessness featured Kentwood City Commissioner and community advocate Emily Bridson moderating along with Marshall Kilgore and, from left, panelists Hillary Scholten and Bo Torres. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal’s In Focus series of podcasts, we bring you City of Kentwood Commissioner Emily Bridson’s Community Conversation on Immigration, held Thursday, Jan. 9, at Broad Leaf Local Beer in Kentwood.

The event was moderated by Bridson and Marshall Kilgore, Western Michigan Director for United Precinct Delegates, and included panelists Hillary Scholten, candidate for the U.S. 3rd Congressional District, and Bo Torres, a Hispanic community leader.

WKTV Journal In Focus’s audio only podcast of a Community Conversation on Immigration set-up by Kentwood City Commissioner and community advocate Emily Bridson drew a crowd Jan. 9. (WKTV)

The conversation drew about 100 people, with standing room only, and included discussion on current immigration policies as well as the contributions made to the United States from immigrants — both documented and undocumented. It also included discussion on proposed Michigan governmental action to change the state’s driver’s license laws.

For a link to the ‘Community Conversation on Homelessness” audio podcast, click here.

Regular episodes of WKTV Journal In Focus airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel (see our Weekly On-air Schedule for dates and times).Individual interviews area also available on WKTV’s YouTube Channel at WKTVvideos.

The high price of ‘free pets’

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The thrill is gone, and Bowser’s about to be kicked to the curb

By Victoria Mullen, WKTV

victoria@wktv.org


The holidays are over. The tree has been dragged outside for pick-up, the ornaments packed up and stored in the attic until next year, and that surprise pup you gave the kids for Christmas?


About to be kicked to the curb.


Alas, Bowser’s novelty has worn off, and the kids have moved on to the next new, shiny thing. Pup is growing fast, eating you out of house and home, and because no one makes time to train or exercise him, behavioral problems arise—chewing is a biggie; so, too, is possessiveness. If Bowser hasn’t been neutered, well, you can look forward to other ‘problems’.

He knows he’s been bad—just train him

So, you’re probably at your wits’ end, amiright? You’re thinking about rehoming the critter. Maybe take him to a shelter and let someone else deal with the behavioral issues.


Or possibly you’re taking another tack. Maybe you’re thinking of posting Bowser on Craig’s List and other social media sites. Something like this, perhaps: ‘Cute puppy FREE to a good home’.


First off:

Always charge a rehoming fee. Always.

We get it. Sometimes life circumstances precipitate the need for rehoming. Holiday gift disaster aside, maybe you’re moving overseas, or perhaps there is a severe illness or death in the family.

Animal testing

Anyway you slice it, rehoming can be a challenge: On the one hand, you want to be open-minded to different ways of life, yet you don’t want Bowser to fall into nefarious hands. 


“The danger with free pets is that people are devious,” said Ginny Mikita, animal advocate and attorney in Rockford, Michigan. “Some acquire free animals to supply to medical testing facilities.”


Unfortunately, there is no foolproof way to discern the true motivation for potential adopters wanting a free animal, Mikita said. Dog fight trainers acquire animals in myriad ways. Live bait animals come from shelters or from ‘free to good home’ ads. Some animals are stolen out of yards.


Maybe someone responding to your ad shows up on your doorstep looking clean-cut and respectable. It’s a common ruse. In Florida, a young man and a woman purporting to be his grandmother led a family to believe that their pet would be a companion animal for the elder. The family waived their rehoming fee. Once home, however, the two tossed the pup into a cage with a fighting dog; things did not end well.


Maybe you’re not all that fond of Bowser, but would you really want something like that to happen to him?

Puppy mills—the reality

Other atrocities abound. Aside from cats and submissive canines becoming bait for fighting dogs, smaller animals become food for snakes or star in crush videos—and we’re not talking Hollywood. (We’ll wait here while you look it up.)


Some people want free animals so that they can breed them—un-neutered Bowser could end up neglected in a puppy mill, producing scores of unsocialized, ill pups, and living in a small cage without vet care or affection.


And then there are the hoarders, people with a compulsion to collect free animals. We’ve all read stories about how that ends up.

The best way to ensure that your pet is going to a bonafide good home is to post a rehoming fee and to vet prospective adopters carefully. Here are some tips:

• Visit the home. Speak with other members of the family and ask questions—are there other pets in the household? Where will Bowser live? Who will care for him? Does anyone have allergies? Are all family members aware that Bowser is being adopted?
• If you can’t visit, ask someone to visit the home for you. Perhaps the interested party lives far away from you. Ask a rescue in the town to perform a home visit for you. Some rescues have volunteers that will help facilitate long-distance adoptions.
• Ask for personal references. And call the references—ask if the interested party takes good care of their current or former pets. See if you can find out what happened to their past pets. Did they die of natural causes?
• Ask for a vet reference. Call their present or former veterinarian about the party’s other pets and how well they were cared for. At the very least, the vet can confirm that the party has a relationship with the vet. Ask if the vet recommends the party as a good guardian.
• Check animal abuser registries. Michigan doesn’t have one set up yet, but other states might. In response to pressure from the public, registries are becoming more commonplace.
• Google the potential adopter. Google is an amazing resource. A search may turn up past crimes.
• Be prepared to take Bowser back. Sometimes even the best intentions don’t work out—maybe Bowser can’t stand the new family’s other pet. Maybe a family member discovers a previously unknown allergy. Keep Bowser safe by being ready to take him back; let the adopter know that you are willing to do so if things don’t work out.
• Have the adopter sign an adoption contract. Here’s a boilerplate pet adoption contract that can be downloaded and printed out.
• Beware of Craigslist. There are reputable animal databases like Petfinder, breed-specific rescue sites, and local shelters. Most people sourcing animals on Craigslist are looking for free cats and dogs; these people can come off as charming and are confident that they can get you to waive the re-homing fee. Don’t risk it.
• Check out breed rescues. If your pet is a purebred, contact a breed-specific rescue, which will perform a thorough vetting of any potential adopter.

From Lin, Doris. (2019, October 24). Why You Should Never Give Pets Away ‘Free to a Good Home’. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/dont-give-pets-away-free-127759

This… is how it should be

Pets are a huge part of our lives; they’re family. Companion animals give emotional support and help reduce stress levels. They ease the pain of loneliness and encourage us to get involved in social activities. They offer unconditional love and can boost a child’s self-esteem.


In return, as responsible pet owners we have a duty to ensure that our animal friends are kept healthy and fit, are exercised regularly, consume nutritious food, and are provided with love and affection, as well as proper housing and care. And if you absolutely cannot keep him, make sure that the home he is going to will be safe and that the family will give him love and affection.

On Nov. 25, 2019, the president signed the bipartisan Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act into law, making it federally illegal to engage in cruelty to animals. The bill immediately went into effect, meaning those found violating the act could be federally prosecuted, fined, and jailed for up to seven years.



Kentwood city commissioner to host ‘Community Conversation’ on immigration

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A scene from Emily Bridson’s Community Conversation on Homelessness (and WKTV podcast) at Broad Leaf Local Beer in Kentwood in late 2019. (Supplied)

WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

A part of her continuing community conversations, City of Kentwood Commissioner Emily Bridson will co-host a Community Conversation on Immigration, focused on America’s immigration policies, on Thursday, Jan. 9, from 5:30-7 p.m., at Broad Leaf Local Beer.

“The New Year promises to be a polarizing time in our country’s history and we need to find a way to work together,” Bridson said about the planned event. “Let’s gather for a candid community dialogue on immigration. We will discuss licenses for all, detainment, and health care, to name a few.”

The panel will include Hillary Scholten, Democratic candidate for Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District, and Bo Torres, local Hispanic community leader.

The event will be moderated by Bridson and Marshall Kilgore, Western Michigan Director for United Precinct Delegates.

WKTV Community Media will be on-hand to create a podcast of the discussion.

Emily Bridson (WKTV)

“As I research and learn more about immigration issues, I was fortunate to be invited to attend a large meeting last month where local organizations that serve immigrants gathered to create a plan to ensure that President Trump’s Executive Order 13888 (EO), which focuses on refugee resettlement in our communities, would be addressed by his established deadlines,” Bridson said.

On Dec. 17, 2019, the Kentwood City Commission voted to allow further resettlement in our city.

“It was a night of heartfelt personal stories where community members shared their memories of making Kentwood their home,” Bridson said. “We know Kentwood is a special place and it is because we embrace cultures and people from around the world in all of our neighborhoods.”

Bridson pointed out that in a recent study, the economic impact of foreign-born residents of Kent County contributed nearly $3.3 billion to the county’s GDP.

“The numbers speak for themselves on the continued positive impact immigrants have in our community,” she said.

“Our first community conversation was focused on discussing solutions to address homelessness,” Bridson said. Kilgore and Bridson “had over 50 interested community members join us.  Bringing our community together to find solutions to pressing issues has been the driving force behind our efforts.”

For a link to that WKTV podcast, visit here.

Broad Leaf Local Beer is located at 2885 Lake Eastbrook, Kentwood. For more information on the event visit here.

Broad Leaf Local Beerwill donate a portion of the proceeds to The Refugee Education Center.

‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow?’

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By Ginny Mikita, Animal Blessings


“Just this side of Heaven is a place called the Rainbow Bridge.” — unknown


Almost without exception, someone during the monthly grief support group I facilitate will ask about or refer to ‘The Legend of the Rainbow Bridge’.


The Rainbow Bridge tells of a pastoral place filled with green meadows and hills located just outside of Heaven’s gates. According to the Legend, when a companion animal dies, he goes to this place — free of illness and injury but saddened by the continuing absence of his human companion. The animal, it continues, playfully romps with other animals as they patiently await the arrival of their human companions. Upon the death of an animal’s human companion, the two reunite to walk over the Bridge into Heaven, hand-in-paw, to live eternally ever after.


It is unknown who originally penned The Rainbow Bridge. A number of people claim authorship including the following: Paul C. Dahm, a grief counselor who is said to have written the poem in 1981 and published it in a 1998 book of the same name; William N. Britton, author of Legend of Rainbow Bridge; and Dr. Wallace Sife, head of the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, whose poem All Pets Go to Heaven appears on the Association’s website as well as in his book, The Loss of a Pet.


Today, The Rainbow Bridge appears in publications as well as websites throughout the world. Veterinarians routinely provide copies to their human clients upon the death of a companion animal. There are a stack of take-home cards with the words printed on them sitting on a small table alongside a box of tissues in the Serenity Room, the room offered to people whose animals have just died, at the Humane Society. The Legend has inspired writers to gently dissect the rainbow by color and meaning and use it as a launching point for the development of a grieving kit. There is even an interactive virtual memorial home for companion animals at http:/www.rainbowsbridge.com.

The Rainbow Bridge is undergirded by what some would believe to be religious ideas of an afterlife and Heaven. While none of the world’s religions ascribe to such a place, in Genesis, the first book of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament in the Judeo-Christian tradition, after the Flood, God establishes a covenant Noah and “every living creature.” God tells Noah to keep an eye out for rainbows, as they will forever serve as a reminder of God’s eternal promise.


The Legend also shares similarities with the setting of Canadian Margaret Marshall Saunders’ 1902 book, Beautiful Joe’s Paradise. Her book was a sequel to her 1893 story, Beautiful Joe, for which she had won a Humane Society writing contest. Saunders’ vision in her book differs slightly from that of The Rainbow Bridge. In Saunders’ imagination, companion animals arrive to a green land to heal and learn from neglect and abuse suffered during their lives. When ready, animals are taken to Heaven by a balloon.


When The Rainbow Bridge is broached in our Group, the reactions mimic those I’ve received to my informal inquiry made in preparation for writing this month’s column. Most people experience an extreme response. Either the Legend provides a great source of comfort, or it evokes an expression of scornful derision.


Yesterday, a veterinarian friend of mine shared her love-hate relationship with the idea. On the one hand, she finds it to be a kitschy cliché to which people desperately cling for comfort. On the other, it actually is a source of deep comfort and healing. She went on to share that she had recently attended a conference in which The Rainbow Bridge was put to music and played during a guided grief meditation. My friend admitted to being instantly reduced to tears.


In the end, the critical question isn’t whether one believes in the existence of The Rainbow Bridge or not. What matters is whether The Rainbow Bridge is a meaningful source of comfort and light in the painful and dark journey of grieving.

Animal advocate and attorney Ginny Mikita is the founder of Animal Blessings, an organization dedicated to honoring the sacred worth of all animals. Mikita’s companion animal loss support services include facilitating a monthly Companion Animal Loss Grief Support Group, officiating an annual Memorial Service in December, writing grief columns for local publications and speaking at gatherings — local and national — of animal care and protection professionals. Additionally, Mikita regularly officiates Blessings of the Animals in both religious and secular environments.



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.

Snapshots: Weekend things to do not involving shopping

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“And what better way to celebrate a religious holiday than with a month of frenzied consumerism!”

Calvin, of Calvin and Hobbes

Admire the (cat) art

David Wiesner (American, b. 1956), Art & Max, 2010. (Supplied)

The Grand Rapids Art Museum has a survey of award-winning author and illustrator, David Wiesner, The Art of Wordless Storytelling, which features over 70 original watercolors from Wiesner’s most beloved books, including Caldecott Medal winners Tuesday (1991), The Three Pigs (2001), and Flotsam (2006). The story is here.

Dance with motivation

An earlier, slightly smaller version of May Erlewine and The Motivations. (Supplied)

Holiday escape? West Michigan singer/songwriter May Erlwine will take a break from her national tour promoting her recent alt-Americana release, Second Sight, to offer up some local holiday dance party gigs fronting The Motivations. This weekend it’s she’s in Grand Rapids. The story is here.

Visit your ‘inner” self

The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) continues its Bodies Revealed exhibition, which features real, whole and partial body specimens that have been preserved through an innovative process, giving visitors the opportunity to view the complexity of their own organs and systems like never before. The story is here.

Fun fact:

Dec. 18

 The last day to place orders on Amazon that will be delivered by Christmas is Dec. 18. … Maybe you can pay for a drone delivery?

Cat of the week: Swiffer

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Swiffer is a favorite with the ladies. You’ll swoon, too.

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


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


Here is stunning Swiffer’s story as we know it, told by the woman who rescued him.


“This handsome hunk (Dr. Jen estimates he was born in early 2015) joined our two feral cats, Floyd and Goldie behind the church on Pleasant SE by Division in late March of 2019. I got him neutered at CSNIP in April. When we fed him, he was as interested in getting attention as in eating his food, and gradually he started following me to my car when I would leave.


“Finally I couldn’t stand it any longer, so I took him home to be tested and vaccinated—I figured if he was unhappy at the house, I could always take him back. He is sooooo happy at the house. I could never take him to the Humane Society. He loves me and I love him—and I know I can’t keep him but it will be hard to say good-bye. He really gets along well with the other cats. He comes in the bathroom with me so we can have our alone time. Did I say that I love him and that he is my boyfriend?”


Well, we hate to be the ones to tell the rescuer that her gray guy has acquired quite a few girlfriends since his arrival at Crash’s in November! It is easy to see why everyone who has come into contact with him is absolutely delighted by his gentle demeanor and dashing good looks:


“Swiffer—he is one big, gorgeous fluff ball! How this guy ended up homeless is beyond me because he is such a gentle boy who loves people and attention. His rescuer mentioned that he would probably let us know if he felt too overwhelmed, and sure enough, the first couple days he did with a quick swat. Now that he’s acclimated, although a little shy, he’s very relaxed and really enjoys indoor life and having friends. He doesn’t mind having his long hair brushed, which is important because he will definitely require it to be done a couple times a week, if not daily. He’d do well in a home with older kids, a cat buddy or two, and lots of attention (LOTS!).”


We’re pretty confident that once this biography hits the internet and the people looking for a lovely, lifetime companion feast their eyes on Swiffer that he is going to get swept off of his feet and into his fur-ever home!

More about Swiffer:

  • Domestic Medium Hair
  • Gray/Blue/Silver
  • Adult
  • Male
  • Extra Large
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with other cats, children

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


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




On Tap: Wyoming, Kentwood breweries share the ‘love’; welcome to Eastern Kille

3-bottom, Beer, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Local Business, Non-Profits, Recreation,
Beer and cocktails — and drinking responsibly — go hand and hand in West Michigan. (Courtesy New Holland Spirits)

By K.D. Norris
ken@wktv.org
 
Local brewers Broad Leaf Local Beer, Railtown Brewing and TwoGuys Brewing have joined a group of more than 20 Grand Rapids craft beverage producers to support Safe Haven Ministries’ mission of solving the problem of domestic abuse in the community through the “Love Shouldn’t Hurt” effort.

According to supplied material, participating breweries, wineries and distilleries have each created a new beverage named “Love”, and the unique brews, ciders and cocktails will have a portion of its proceeds donated to benefit Safe Haven Ministries. The project kicked off Thanksgiving week and will run through the remainder of the year.

The Mitten State, an apparel company based in Grand Rapids, will also donate a portion of sales of its Michigan “Love” apparel series. A few participating locations will sell limited-edition “Love” pint glasses to benefit the nonprofit.

“First and foremost, the goal of this project is to support Safe Haven in their mission to solve the problem of domestic abuse in our community,” Dana Mate Dones, operations manager of The Mitten Brewing Company, said in supplied material. “But a secondary goal is to prove that when responsibly enjoyed, alcohol can be a force for good and actually be a part of breaking the cycle of domestic abuse, despite its long negative association with the issue.”

Safe Haven Ministries provides emergency shelter, case management, support groups and more to women and children suffering from domestic abuse. The organization also provides education and prevention programs for businesses, schools, healthcare providers and other members of the community.

Safe Haven Ministries, according to supplied material, believes in a multi-faceted approach to solving the problem of domestic abuse in the Grand Rapids community. The organization offers emergency safe shelter for individuals fleeing domestic violence. Safe Haven also offers prevention and outreach programs for the entire community.

In addition to the Wyoming and Kentwood breweries, other participants include Founders Brewing Company, The Mitten Brewing Company, Speciation Artisan Ales, Long Road Distillers, City Built Brewing, The People’s Cider Co., Vander Mill Grand Rapids, Eastern Kille Distillery ( the new name of Gray Skies Distillery; see story below), Cedar Springs Brewing Company, Harmony Brewing, Harmony Hall, Trail Point Brewing, Rockford Brewing, Thornapple Brewing, Wise Men Distillery, Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery, Brewery Vivant, Atwater Brewing, Coldbreak, and Better Drinking Culture.

“We are honored to be a part of the ‘Love Shouldn’t Hurt’ project, along with many of our friends in the Grand Rapids brewing community to support survivors of domestic abuse,” Mitch Ermatinger, owner of Speciation Artisan Ales, said in supplied material.

Grey Skies Distillery rebrands as Eastern Kille Distillery

After nearly four years in business — the business of distilling some pretty fine liquor in downtown Grand Rapids, in my humble opinion — Gray Skies Distillery recently changed its company name to Eastern Kille Distillery.

The new Eastern Kille name, we are told, comes from the work “Kille”, a Middle Dutch word for “riverbank ” — the distillery’s location in the city’s Monroe North neighborhood on the eastern side of the Grand River.

“We started our distillery in 2014 to produce premium spirits, with Great Lakes water and with Michigan pride,” Steve Vander Pol, Co-founder, said on the company’s website. “We set out to craft authentic spirits with quality, natural ingredients, distilled and bottled in the heart of Grand Rapids — our new name reflects that commitment.”

 

The name change, according to multiple media reports, was the result of a trademark trademark dispute involving the Gray Skies name with Campari America LLC, the U.S. affiliate of Milan, Italy-based Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A., the owner of the Skyy vodka brand.

The name change coincides with the first statewide launch of the company’s Michigan Straight Bourbon Whiskey — after all the legal wrangling, a good shot was probably well deserved.

 
“With our bourbon, gin and whiskey, we respect tradition but dare to explore unique flavor profiles, and this new bourbon is the purest representation of our passion,” Vander Pol said, also on the company’s website. “We’ve created a bourbon to be sipped with the best of them, a bourbon Michiganders can call their own.”

Maybe there is a vodka coming which Michiganders can also call their own. (Just saying …)

For more information visit easternkille.com.

DeHop’s Brewing Co. earns German-style beer honors

Walker’s DeHop’s Brewing Co. & Café was recently earned notice from the World Beer Awards, World Beer Championship, and U.S. Beer Open Championship.

DeHop’s Schwarzbier German Black Lager was crowned the Best Dark Lager in the United States from the 2019 World Beer Awards, according to supplied material. The beer was also awarded a silver medal in the 2019 World Beer Championship along with other DeHop’s brews Brahm’s Best Vienna Style Lager and Maibock.

The brewery was also inducted into the Brotherhood for the International Embracement of the Reinheitsgebot (BIER), an exclusive club based out of Munich, Germany. This award goes to brewers who are creating lagers that support the German Purity Law, which limits the ingredients in beer production to its authentic German roots. All DeHop’s Lagers are brewed in accordance with the German Purity Law.

For more informant visit dehops.com.

Chamber’s WKTV Government Matters discussion includes reports from Washington, D.C.

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The December Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum at Kentwood City Hall. (WKTV)

By WKTV Staff
ken@wktv.org

While local issues were discussed, the current governmental problems in Washington, D.C., took center stage as part of a wide-ranging inter-governmental leaders meeting Monday, Dec. 9, at the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum at Kentwood City Hall.

At the meeting, Brian Patrick, Communications Director for federal Rep. Bill Huizenga (Michigan Congressional District 2), and Peter Dickow, West Michigan Regional Director for U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, both reported on their bosses’ efforts but also answered questions on the ballooning federal budget deficit and other issues.

The Government Matters meeting is rebroadcast on WKTV’s channels and on-demand website (wktvlive.com). This month’s meeting is available here.

The Government Matters meeting brings together representatives from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, Kent County commissioners, local Michigan state senators and representatives, as well as often representatives of Michigan’s U.S. senators and U.S. congressman who represent the Wyoming and Kentwood area.

The next meeting will be Jan. 13, from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., at Wyoming City Hall.

The intergovernmental discussion hosted by the chamber focuses on issues that effect residents and businesses in the two cities.


 
For more information about the chamber and Government Matters visit southkent.org.

The meetings are on the second Monday of each month, starting at 8 a.m. WKTV Journal will produce a highlight story after the meeting. But WKTV also offers replays of the latest meeting on Wednesdays at 7 p.m., as well as on select Saturdays, on Comcast Cable Government Channel 26. For a highlight schedule of WKTV cable programs visit wktvjournal.org.

Woodland Mall plans season-long holiday festivities for shoppers, families

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, Holidays, Kids Activities, Local Business, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Upcoming Events, Woodland Mall,
There will be lots of photo ops with Santa and kids at Woodland Mall this season.

By Woodland Mall

After opening the new Von Maur wing, first-to-market retailers and The Cheesecake Factory this fall, Woodland Mall continues its celebrations into the holiday season with a packed schedule of events for all to enjoy.
 
Photos with Santa, princess and Star Wars-themed events, live music and gift-wrapping fundraisers will deck the halls and help spread holiday cheer at Woodland Mall now to the new year.

“With festive decorations, extended hours and a variety of activities fit for the season, Woodland Mall is a fun destination for shoppers of all ages to get into the holiday spirit,” said Marketing Director Cecily McCabe. “This year especially has been a continuous celebration with all the wonderful new retailers, restaurants and features we have added.

“We’re excited to multiply the magic of the holidays for those re-experiencing Woodland Mall and all it has to offer this season.”

Photos with Santa for Everyone

As one of the most iconic holiday events, Santa Claus returns to his seat in the heart of the Arctic Forest, which is located in Center Court this year, ready to take photos with shoppers of all ages through Christmas Eve. Visitors can also visit with Ursa, the enormous 12-foot polar bear decked with thousands of holiday lights, while they wait to see Santa.

Families are welcome to bring their “fur babies” along for photos with Santa on Mondays through Dec. 16. Feathered, whiskered and hooved pets are welcome too. Santa has heard Christmas wishes from cats, chickens and even goats! All pets may join as long as they are kept on a leash or in a crate at all times.

Star Wars, Princess and other themed events

Insta Holiday — Shoppers are invited to Insta Holiday at Woodland Mall, a three day-event packed with activities you will love. Events include glow-in-the-mall silent discos hosted by WSNX with DJ CHOFF, a selfie scavenger hunt, sequin wall art contest and multiple chances to receive giveaways and win concert tickets.

The event will take place Dec. 12-14 from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday.
 
Snowflake Social — Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to noon. Woodland Mall is getting into the holiday spirit with fun for all ages! Enjoy a festive Starbucks hot chocolate with all the fun toppings at our hot cocoa bar, festive activities with Kent District Library, winter wonderland crafts and live holiday music from the Salvation Army Band. Guests can also receive a light-up candy cane with a visit to Santa Claus, while supplies last.

Winter Princess Party with Santa — Thursday, Dec. 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. Enjoy a winter wonderland party for your favorite little princess. Attendees will get to meet three real winter princesses, enjoy a wintry take-home craft, enjoy live holiday music, make their own princess crown and receive a light-up princess wand. For exclusive access into this enchanted event, guests can simply purchase any Santa Photo Package now through Dec. 12 and present the receipt. Visit shopwoodlandmall.com/holiday to skip the lines and purchase a fast-pass for photos with Santa.

Star Wars Day — Woodland Mall is calling all Star Wars fans to dress up as their favorite hero or villain on Saturday, Dec. 14 from noon to 1 p.m. for Star Wars Character Day. Participants will have the chance to meet and interact with 10 Star Wars characters, who will also be available for photos.

Enjoy holiday music

The Salvation Army Band will also perform in the Macy’s wing on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 21 from 10 to 12 p.m.

Additionally, Von Maur will host a holiday jazz concert on Dec. 14 from 1 to 5 p.m. for shoppers to enjoy while selecting the perfect gifts for loved ones.

Get gifts wrapped for a good cause

To tie everything together, the Purple Community Gift Wrapping Fundraiser will take place on the weekends of Dec. 7-8 and 14-15 in the JCPenney wing near Altar’d State. Shoppers are invited to bring gifts large and small on those Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. to be wrapped in exchange for a cash donation benefitting the Van Andel Institute’s biomedical research and science education.

The mall will have special extended hours to ensure that guests are able to get all their shopping completed before the holiday. Please visit shopwoodlandmall.com for a full list of updated holiday hours.

Mentors as resources for career development

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Education, Kids Activities, Local Business, ,
Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Frank Cox, Michigan State University Extension


A mentor has the ability to coach, guide and support his or her mentee for career development because they can teach more in-depth from their personal career experiences. A mentor can also share his or her network and connections to connect the mentee to other professionals in their career field of interest.


The article “Exploring Careers through Job Shadowing” on The Balance Careers states that job shadowing is a career exploration activity that offers an opportunity to spend time with a professional currently working in a person’s career field of interest. For mentoring, a mentee interested in the same career field as their mentor makes a good match for a job shadowing experience. If a mentee is interested in a different career field, a mentor has direct and indirect career connections to assist mentees for a job shadowing match. A job shadowing experience will allow the mentee to observe their potential career field of interest, get a sense of the work environment and learn about the level of education for that career.


To build on the job shadowing experience and depending on the level of education needed or desired by the mentee, making visits to post-secondary institutions is helpful. These visits allow the mentee to not only observe but also ask questions relating to his or her postsecondary plans or desires. On these visits, the mentee will observe the post-secondary learning environment, learn the requirements for admission, learn about financing their post-secondary education and visit with students and faculty.


In preparation for visits, mentors and mentees can work together to research the institutions. For example, to take a college visit to Michigan State University, they may go to the Office of Admissions webpage and search for scheduling a college visit. This type of educational activity can be a learning experience for mentors and mentees.


Michigan 4-H Youth Development with Michigan State University Extension utilizes caring adults to help youth become productive citizens in society. Two programs that help accomplish these goals are the Michigan 4-H Youth Mentoring Programs and Michigan 4-H Careers and Entrepreneurship Programs offered by Michigan 4-H Youth Development. With resources available for mentoring and careers, caring adult mentors can play a positive role in helping guide mentees to the career of their choice.


For more information or resources on career exploration, workforce preparation, financial education, or entrepreneurship, contact 4-HCareerPrep@anr.msu.edu.


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


Memory care: The specifics that matter

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, Local Business, Senior Living, ,
Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living

By Vista Springs Assisted Living


When caring for patients facing different forms of dementia or memory loss, it can be tempting to look at the big picture only. Will they be safe? Will they be clean? Will they remain physically healthy and as happy as possible? These are all important questions to ask when looking at the care a loved one will receive when diagnosed with a memory disorder. But it’s also important to make sure the memory care facility you are considering focuses on the individual details that will aid in well-rounded care.


Details matter. Here are some of the specific care elements you should consider when choosing a memory care facility for aging adults.

Layout and design

The design of an assisted living community should make it easy for residents to find their way around on their own for as long as possible. The layout should optimize wayfinding, ensure safety and create freedom. Wide hallways, creative labeling, and naming of hallways and sections, bold colors and shapes can all contribute to a safe and vibrant community.


Sliding doors over swinging doors add an extra element of safety, and soft amber lighting over areas such as the restroom can trigger memory and make it easier for patients to locate a spot over and over.

An understanding staff

A staff that is not only trained and certified to care for those with memory problems, but who are also sympathetic, caring, and engaging is key when it comes to creating a positive environment for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Looking at certifications and qualifications is important, but it’s also vital to look at the details of their behaviors and attitudes toward their patients.


It’s important that caregivers know when to just go with the flow and when to encourage a patient to try to remember. There will be times when it’s best to go along with an idea even though it’s obviously wrong, and times when it’s best to redirect and distract them. Treating your loved one like a resident and not just a patient can have a huge impact on their overall well-being, and you want to work with a staff you like and can trust.

Peace and stability

A memory care facility that can manage any type of memory care can be beneficial as the needs of your loved one change. Things can become unfamiliar and scary as memories begin to fade, but being in a familiar environment and surrounded by friends can keep patients in good spirits and often slow the progression of the disease. When a facility supports all stages from independent living, to minimum care to advanced memory care, it can make sure your loved one is getting the best care, right from the beginning and they won’t be jarred by sudden moves, changes in staff or location.


A part of this stability comes from a peaceful living environment. Alarms should be as silent as possible to avoid distressing patients, and all areas of the facility should be designed with peace in mind. Fireplaces, pianos, patios and plenty of sunlit areas can all add to a feeling of peace and contentment and help keep patients calm no matter their stage.

An active social life

When memory patients are at home being cared for by a loved one, it can be easy to create a bubble and cut off the outside world. But, maintaining an active social life is key to making sure they feel like belong. Even if they don’t participate in activities or conversation, just being surrounded by it, listening, thinking and reacting will activate and stimulate certain areas of the brain. Organized activities and an active community help make sure patients stay involved and maintain a social life.


Social time is also a great time to promote activities and games that build memory muscle, keep brains active and renew remaining capacities for memory.


So, when choosing a memory care facility, don’t just look at the pictures. Pay attention to the details and make sure your loved one will be cared for in every aspect of their everyday life.


Reprinted with permission from Vista Springs Assisted Living.


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

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Kids Activities, Local Business,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

“I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I was six. Mother took me to see him in a department store and he asked for my autograph.”

Shirley Temple

Treat the kids to some
holiday fun this Sunday

This holiday season, the Holland Area Arts Council is reprising their partnership with Grand Rapids Ballet in two special performances for children ages 4 to 10 and their adult guests on Sunday, Nov. 17th. The gallery will be filled with the enchanting giggles of children as they experience the magic of music, dance and storytelling. Performances will be held at 12:30 and 2:30pm. Details are here.

It’s the most wonderful
time of the year (isn’t it?)

Courtesy Vista Springs Assisted Living

Visiting family this holiday season? Or is grandma bringing Uncle Dave and the wild bunch to your place? Here are some life-saving tips on how to survive. Go here.

Miss the Nov. 10th Community
Conversation on Homelessness?

No worries, the podcast is available on-demand here.

Fun fact:

Santa Claus wasn’t
always fat and happy

You’d be brooding too if you had to lug something like this around (to be fair, this is probably an image of Father Christmas, a precursor to Santa)

We know, we know. It’s not even Thanksgiving and here we are talking about Christmas. Well, the malls have holiday decorations up, right? So, fair game.


Early images portray the bearded one as gloomy and brooding — even kind of scary. As he evolved, he gradually looked more approachable. Then, in 1931, Coca-Cola commissioned Michigan-born illustrator Haddon Sundblom to develop advertising images portraying Santa as wholesome, warm, friendly — not just a man dressed as Santa.


Today, Santa’s still fat, jolly, red-faced and, to be honest, a bit nosy. Right? How else does he know who’s been naughty or nice? Oh, wait. Alexa…

Cat of the week: Larry

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , , ,
Larry is a gentle soul who would love a nice, quiet home to enjoy his golden years

By Sharon Wylie, Crash’s Landing


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


It is always heartbreaking to us when one of our previous residents has to return to live within our furry fold, especially our senior citizens who have spent many, many years in homes of their own.


When we were contacted in August of 2019 by the adopter of our cat formerly known as Fargo, we were immediately concerned that his re-arrival was going to be a bit difficult; he was adopted out just two months after intake in March of 2011, and up until last year, had lived with just one other cat. As the story goes, since the loss of his constant companion, Larry (as he was renamed) was extremely lonely, and bringing another cat into the household wasn’t a viable option; after much consideration, his owner felt it best he come back to us.


As expected, when the 11-1/2 year old (born in January of 2008) reentered our program, he was shell-shocked to say the least. And to top things off, Dr. Jen diagnosed him with kidney disease when she performed his initial work-up; though geriatric-onset renal disease is very common, the last thing poor Larry needed was daily medication given by strangers—but it had to be done. So our volunteers made sure to soothe his worried soul extensively during his first few weeks with us, taking care not to spook him when it was time to administer the oral liquid meds to slow the progression of his illness.


Larry is a lovely, gentle, old guy who would love nothing more than to land himself a place to live out his golden years; a place that is less busy and bustling than Crash’s. Larry, in our opinion, has been very confused and seems lost at times being back at the shelter. He’s very skittish when approached, but once you’ve got him in your arms he relaxes enough to allow you to hold him for a bit. He isn’t too fond of having several cats around him but has been seen cuddled up with a single cat, which warms our hearts.


We feel that going to a home with another cat may just be what he needs. He can be pretty vocal at times, tends to swat on occasion, but more than likely this behavior is due to the fact that he just feels overwhelmed. We really would like him go to a home where his humans will be around more often than not, and can give him the attention he craves, as he needs to rebuild his trust in people. One cat buddy would definitely help build his esteem, but more than that and we feel Larry will regress and keep to himself.


A lot of us remember him as the full-bodied and outgoing Fargo, so it has been sad for us to see him struggle in this manner. We are doing our very best to show him the affection and shower him with the attention that he so desires but is afraid to ask for, and we will all continue to do so until his fabulous, final family is found.

More about Larry:

  • Domestic Short Hair
  • Orange & White
  • Senior
  • Male
  • Medium
  • House-trained
  • Vaccinations up to date, declawed, special needs: kidney disease
  • Neutered
  • Good in a home with one other cat

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


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