On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus, Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley — a staunch, vocal advocate for the livability of his city and the interests of its residents — was recently, given another point of pride about the city.
Kentwood’s 4 9 5 0 8 zip code was recently named the Hottest Zip Code in the nation by Realtor.com, beating out hot-spot cities such as Colorado Springs and Kansas City suburb Overland Park, Kansas.
In Focus, Mayor Kepley talks why he is not surprised by the national notice and other special items of note that are happening in the city.
“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). But all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.
Thanksgiving is Thursday, Nov. 22nd, and West Michigan is going all out in celebration. Enjoy delicious food at a buffet, or get a meal to bring home to your family. All of the classics will be there, from ham and turkey to stuffing and potatoes. If you have room for dessert, that will be served as well. There’s more to do after you eat, like holiday tours and early shopping. Enjoy a West Michigan Thanksgiving this month.
Dine in Southern West Michigan
Silo Banquets & Catering in Allegan offers their Thanksgiving Dinner to Go every year. The Silo has the largest catering kitchen in West Michigan, and each of the dinners that they prepare are ready to feed up to ten people. These dinners include everything that you need to have a family Thanksgiving meal, including turkey or ham, mashed potatoes, rolls, gravy, pie, and more. Make Thanksgiving dinner a breeze with these ready-to-serve meals.
Thanksgiving is a special time to express gratitude for all the blessings of the year. In honor of this celebration, Schuler’s Restaurant in Marshall serves turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, and all the trimmings. Make reservations to have a family Thanksgiving in Schuler’s beautiful dining room, or order ahead and pick up your feast on Thanksgiving Day to share with your family at home.
This Thanksgiving, give the cooks in your family a much-deserved break. Bring your family to the Boulevard Inn & Bistro in St. Joseph for their Thanksgiving Day Brunch Buffet on Thursday, Nov. 22nd. Just choose your favorites from the bountiful buffet, sit back, and enjoy being together.
The Bay Pointe Inn in Shelbyville is hosting a Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet and live music on Thursday, Nov. 22nd. The menu includes traditional Thanksgiving fare, like turkey, potatoes, and pumpkin pie, in addition to pastries, shrimp cocktails, mini mousse, and more.
You’ll find some of the freshest farm ingredients served for Thanksgiving when you visit Saugatuck. They have a variety of Thanksgiving specials and buffets throughout the area, many of which are on Thanksgiving day. Area restaurants will serve a traditional menu with a few added surprises.
Henderson Castle (file photo)
Henderson Castle in is hosting their annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 21st. Enjoy all the delicious food that you’ve come to expect from Henderson Castle during this festive season.
The Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo has two restaurants, each offering different Thanksgiving specials and events. Zazio’s is hosting a special Black Friday Brunch on Friday, Nov. 23rd. Over at Old Burdick’s Bar & Grill, they’ll be serving up a holiday-themed menu on Thanksgiving.
Dine in Central West Michigan
Double JJ Resort in Rothbury is once again hosting their popular Thanksgiving Buffet at the Sundance Restaurant. The annual buffet is a relaxing way to spend time with friends and family with the beautiful view from the Sundance. This delicious brunch buffet features a unique menu every year.
Chef Tim and his team at SE4SONS Gastropub at Muskegon Country Club will be preparing Thanksgiving dinners for you to take home and throw in the oven. All meals will be sent with cooking and reheating instructions, making it easy to put together your Thanksgiving feast. All orders must be placed by Thursday, Nov. 15th.
Both the JW Marriott and Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids are serving up Thanksgiving day brunches on Thursday, Nov. 22nd. Reservations are recommended.
Stop by Mt. Pleasant for Thanksgiving and leave the cooking to the professionals. They have both Thanksgiving buffets and easy dinners that you can take home to the family. Enjoy Thanksgiving-themed entrees, sides, and desserts without all the mess and clean up.
The Holland area is going all out for Thanksgiving. The area is home to dozens of restaurants, each with their own Thanksgiving traditions and menus. Check out what the Holland area restaurants have to offer, and find the perfect restaurant to suit your tastes and fit into your budget.
Dine in Northern West Michigan
The popular Thanksgiving Day Buffet at Grand Traverse Resort in Williamsburg is back. Enjoy a wide array of Thanksgiving-themed brunch treats as well as a special buffet for kids. The Thanksgiving buffet menu is available on the Aerie Restaurant website where you can also make your reservations.
If the thought of preparing an entire Thanksgiving meal for your family and friends has you stressed out, let Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire do the cooking and cleaning up. Call today to make reservations for the Thanksgiving Harvest Buffet at The Lakeview Restaurant. This buffet offers a delicious array of everything you’d expect a traditional Thanksgiving feast to include and more.
You’re invited to bring your family to the Thanksgiving Celebration at Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls. They have plenty of activities and entertainment for all ages. For your Thanksgiving meal, choose either the delightful buffet or have a complete meal, including all of the holiday favorites, prepared and delivered to your room.
Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville is hosting a Thanksgiving weekend full of family events and activities. Their Thanksgiving Reconnect Weekend runs from Thursday, Nov. 22nd to Sunday, Nov. 25th, kicking off with the 4K Turkey Vulture Trot. Afterward, enjoy a well-deserved traditional Thanksgiving buffet.
Charlevoix area (file photo)
Thanksgiving brings family and friends together, and Charlevoix welcomes you and your loved ones to come to celebrate this special holiday with them. During the long weekend, enjoy Thanksgiving feasts at local restaurants, including Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant.
Get into the Thanksgiving spirit with a stop along the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula wine trail. Drop into one of the nine unique wineries for a wine tasting to decide which Michigan wines you will be serving this holiday season.
Pre-Thanksgiving Traditions
Just in time for Thanksgiving, Lansing is getting decked out with thousands of lights and holiday fun for the Silver Bells in the City celebration. Silver Bells in the City attracts over 80,000 people to the Capital City each year and takes place annually on the Friday before Thanksgiving. This free event brings family and friends together to kick off the holiday season.
Grand Haven Main Street provides a picturesque postcard start to this year’s holiday season. Downtown Grand Haven will be abuzz with festivities and cheer as Light Night gets you in a festive mood on Friday, Nov. 16th. Carolers will be strolling throughout downtown, roasted chestnuts, cider, and hot chocolate will be available to the public courtesy of Grand Haven Main Street and Grand Haven Tri-Cities Historical Museum.
Get in the holiday spirit in Mecosta County with the Festival of Lights parade on Saturday, Nov. 17th. This popular parade features 30 floats and groups of walkers loaded with Christmas lights, live reindeer, and a grand entrance by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Stay at Hotel Walloon for the area’s holiday kick off! On Wednesday, Nov. 21st, the Village of Walloon will come alive with Christmas vendors, an appearance by Santa, the lighting of the village, kids activities, and more. Then, spend a relaxing weekend celebrating Thanksgiving in northern Michigan.
Events Over Thanksgiving Weekend
From Thursday to Sunday and throughout November, Thanksgiving events are taking over many parts of West Michigan. The extended weekend is the perfect time to get out with family and friends to enjoy the festivities.
The Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo has two restaurants, each offering different Thanksgiving specials and events. Zazios is hosting a Holiday Cooking Class on Wednesday, Nov.17th to teach you how to wow your guests this holiday season. They’re also hosting a special Black Friday Brunch on Friday, Nov. 23rd. Over at Old Burdick’s Bar & Grill, they’ll be serving up a holiday-themed menu on Thanksgiving.
The Holland area is going all out for Thanksgiving, with events, buffets, and ways to give back to the community. Before feasting upon one of the area’s many Thanksgiving buffets, lace up your running or walking shoes for the Turkey Trot 8K on Thursday, Nov. 22nd. Stop by the Kerstmarkt on Nov. 23rd and 24th, or enjoy a post-Thanksgiving concert at the Park Theatre on Saturday, Nov. 24th. From now through Dec. 22nd, the Holland Area Visitors Bureau is hosting a Winter Coat & Food Drive. Get in the holiday spirit and give back by dropping off new and gently used coats, hats, mittens, and scarves as well as non-perishable food items to the WHTC AM radio station or the Holland Area Visitors Bureau.
The Muskegon area has holiday events all month long. Just in time for Thanksgiving, the 14th Annual Festival of Trees at the Muskegon Museum of Art features themed trees and decor from Nov. 21st to Dec. 2nd. While the family is in town for Thanksgiving, take them on the Hackley & Hume Holiday Tour on Nov. 24th and 25th. Experience the Hackley and Hume homes by candlelight to celebrate the holiday season.
You’re invited to bring your family to the Thanksgiving Celebration at Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls. They have plenty of activities and entertainment for all ages. For your Thanksgiving meal, choose either the delightful buffet or have a complete meal, including all of the holiday favorites, prepared and delivered to your room.
Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville is hosting a Thanksgiving weekend full of family events and activities. Their Thanksgiving Reconnect Weekend runs from Thursday, Nov. 22nd to Sunday, Nov. 25th, kicking off with the 4K Turkey Vulture Trot. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving buffet. The Holiday Trail Celebration is Friday, Nov. 23rd, with a Christmas tree lighting the following day.
Thanksgiving brings family and friends together, and Charlevoix welcomes you and your loved ones to come to celebrate this special holiday with them. Before the holiday commences, sign up for the annual Turkey Trot 5K run along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix. During the long weekend, enjoy Thanksgiving feasts at local restaurants, including Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant.
Thanksgiving Stays & Packages
Take a road trip to quiet Saugatuck and host your Thanksgiving dinner in a vacation rental from Lakeshore Lodging. Whether you have a larger group to host this Thanksgiving or you’re just looking for a change of scenery, choosing to host your Thanksgiving dinner in a vacation rental is a fresh way to do the holiday.
As a thank you to their guests, the All Season Hotel & Resort in Kalkaska is offering a free night when you purchase and stay one night between Nov. 20th and 30th.
The Thanksgiving Package at the Terrace Inn & 1911 Restaurant in Petoskey includes a two-night stay for two in one of their cozy cottage-style rooms on Nov. 22nd and 23rd.
On Veteran's Day: "It’s about how we treat our veterans every single day of the year. ... It’s about serving all of you as well as you’ve served the United States of America.”."
- President Barack Obama
Wyoming to host Vets Day breakfast
Veterans lay a wreath during Wyoming’s 2017 Memorial Day ceremony.
This year, the City of Wyoming has decided to switch things up when it comes to its annual Veterans Day program, replacing its outdoor evening ceremony for a morning breakfast event. Set for Nov. 12 at the Wyoming Senior Center, 2380 DeHoop Ave. SW, the breakfast is free for veterans, $5 for non-veterans. For the complete story, click here.
Santa and more headed to Mall
There will be plenty of photo ops with Santa for kids at Woodland Mall this holiday season.As the holiday season nears, Woodland Mall is preparing for Santa’s arrival, setting up decorations and hosting a series of events to help shoppers spread holiday cheer this winter. And all the fun starts this weekend. For the complete story, click here.
A weekend of holiday cheer near
Scenes from the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival, returning Nov. 15-17 to downtown Grand Rapids. (Supplied)It doesn’t matter if your a chardonnay sipper or a porter pounder, there will probably be something to your taste at the 11th Annual Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival, returning Nov. 15-17 to DeVos Place downtown, with food, beverage and culinary-themed entertainment presented by area chefs, restaurants and purveyors of the spectrum of libations — including of the caffeinated variety. For the complete story, click here.
Fun Fact:
2,252 brewpubs
At the end of 2017, there were more than 6,266 craft breweries subdivided into 2,252 brewpubs, 3,812 microbreweries and 202 regional craft breweries. (Source)
Experiencing history and learning from the experts is one of the best ways to learn. Check out these events happening in November and beyond. Don’t forget to check WMTA’s event calendar for a full list of upcoming events.
Grab your girlfriends and jump back in time to the 1950s with the Women’s Only Weekend in South Haven from Nov. 8th to 11th. The bash includes rocking music, a sock hop, poodle skirts, and more. Purchase your tickets and plan a whole weekend of retro fun.
Entice your senses with the Encore Tea & Whiskey Weekend at Hart House Bed & Breakfast. Colleen Connon, an expert on tea, and Patrick Cannon, an expert on whiskey, will present their stories and tips on Nov. 9th and 10th. The two-night event includes a welcome reception and tasting, with packages available for your stay.
Courtesy Tulip Time Festival
Enjoy a delicious meal and learn something new at the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings and their upcoming Lunch & Learn event on Thursday, Nov. 15th. Titled Reading Between the Lines: Looking for Michigan’s Treaty Lines, the event looks at the reservations and boundaries of the early 19th century that are seemingly gone. If you look carefully, you can still see the marks that are left on the landscape. Historian John Gorentz will guide you on a photographic journey to some of these historical places in Michigan and other states of the Old Northwest.
Henderson Castle in Kalamazoo is one of the most haunted places in Michigan. Listen to the scary stories of yesteryear at the Haunted History Dinner & Tour on Friday, Nov. 16th. The tour will include a rare opportunity to hear some of the spooky tales of this 123-year-old castle. You may even meet a ghost!
Celebrating its 89th year in 2018, Tulip Time has grown over the years to be so much more than a flower festival. Back in 1929, the City of Holland planted its first crop of 100,000 tulips. The overwhelming number of visitors over the years as the festival took shape resulted in the addition of programs, pageantry, costumes, parades, and the popular Dutch Dancers. Each year, Tulip Time strives to showcase all that Holland, Michigan has to offer.
Museums, Cultural Centers & Historical Societies
West Michigan’s many museums, cultural centers, and historical societies dedicate themselves to cataloging and promoting history in fun and unique ways. The main goal of these organizations is to help their communities and visitors from all over learn something new each and every time they visit.
If you visited downtown St. Joseph this summer, you may have noticed that the Krasl Art Center yard was undergoing a major face-lift. This $1.7 million project, known as Sculpting Community, is the third major renovation project since the building’s genesis in 1979. After years of improving the lives of its community, the Krasl Art Center is thrilled to invite you this new, historic project, providing residents and visitors a space to come together and connect with nature, art, and each other.
The Heritage Museum & Cultural Center in St. Joseph prides itself in sharing stories about the community. This museum houses the area’s history, its artifacts, and an archival collection, alongside a research library. It presents stories in spacious exhibit halls and creates new memories in elegant banquet facilities. Come journey into the area’s past, see the present, and receive a deeper understanding and thrill at the possibilities for the future.
The Holland Museum tells the stories and history of the both the Holland area and of the greater West Michigan area. By promoting engagement and change instead of simply dictating information, the Holland Museum has been creating a community with a better and brighter future. Upcoming events in November include a skills workshop to teach the skills of Holland’s early settlers and a landing party for the Mars Lander.
Courtesy Harbor Springs Area Historical Society
The Harbor Springs History Museum, home of the Harbor Springs Area Historical Society, is located in the former city hall building. As the first of two permanent exhibits, the Local History Gallery guides visitors through a multi-layered chronology of the Harbor Springs region. The Discovery Gallery is the second of these permanent exhibit spaces and is filled with hands-on activities for children and their families or teachers. Serving as the museum’s temporary exhibit spaces, the main and north galleries host both traveling exhibits and temporary exhibits from the HSAHS collection.
Historic Charlton Park is located in the Hastings area, and features a recreated, turn-of-the-century historic village and the Irving D. Charlton Memorial Museum. The museum is open until December, giving you plenty of time to stop by yet this year.
LowellArts began with the enthusiasm of community volunteers and funds raised through a visit to Lowell by Artrain USA in November 1976. Originally called the Lowell Area Arts Council, the organization was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1977. In September 1977, LowellArts became the sponsor of the Fallasburg Arts Festival, a two-day outdoor art and music celebration. Today, LowellArts is creating their own space in downtown Lowell with the help of individual community donations and the Lowell Area Community Fund.
The S.S. Milwaukee Clipper has been transporting people between Muskegon and Milwaukee since 1941. In 1904, the Erie & Western Transportation Company, better known now as the Anchor Line, commissioned a 361-foot passenger and package freight steamer. After years of traveling the waterways of the United States, the vessel found a home in Lake Michigan. On June 2nd, 1941, her name was changed to S.S. Milwaukee Clipper. After a long hiatus that included name changes, new locations, and different owners, the ship returned to Muskegon. Today, the S.S. Milwaukee Clipper stays put in Muskegon Lake as a national landmark and museum.
The Tri-Cities Historical Museum has been cataloging Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg history for visitors to the area. The museum is made up of comprehensive exhibits that cover many different eras of the area’s past, from prehistoric rocks and fossils to common dry goods shop from 1940s Grand Haven. Each exhibit is housed within a structure accurate to the time it represents. Inside many of the exhibits, learners of all ages are often invited to touch and explore recreations of artifacts in order to make history more relatable.
Courtesy Kingman Museum
The Coopersville Area Historical Society was founded in 1980 to preserve area history for the enrichment of both visitors and local residents. During the Historical Society’s early days, its members met in the town’s former interurban railway depot. In 1987, the Historical Society acquired use of the building from the City of Coopersville. The facility was then open seasonally as a museum with some regular and special exhibits. The historical society and museum continue to support the community with education and preservation.
As the holiday season nears, Woodland Mall is preparing for Santa’s arrival, setting up decorations and hosting a series of events to help shoppers spread holiday cheer this winter.
SantaFest, storytime at Barnes & Noble, a menorah display and family pet photos are just some of what is in store for the holidays at Woodland Mall, as well as an exclusive PREIT Perks Member Weekend and, of course, special shopping deals on Black Friday.
“It’s exciting seeing Woodland Mall transform for the holiday season,” said Cecily McCabe, Woodland Mall marketing director. “As our decorations are put up and all the festivities come to fruition, it’s easy to feel the holiday spirit.”
Guests will have the opportunity explore Woodland Mall’s Arctic Forest again this year, home to the man in red himself. The forest will be surrounded by decorated trees stretching up to 22 feet, snow-covered islands and icicle archways, as well as Ursa, an enormous 12-foot polar bear.
Santa photos for you and your pet
Seated in the heart of the Arctic Forest will be Santa, ready to take photos with shoppers of all ages from Nov. 10 through Dec. 24 during regular mall hours. Families are welcome bring their “fur babies” with them for photos with Santa on Mondays from Nov. 12 through Dec. 17.
Pet photos with Santa will be offered every Monday until Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. All pets are welcome, as long as they are kept on a leash at all times. Families with pets should use the east and west entrances closest to Macy’s.
“Seven out of every 10 American households have pets who are integral members of the family,” said McCabe. “We recognize their importance and are setting aside a special time to encourage families to bring their dog, cat or other animal to be part of a photo with Santa.
“This is just another way we are helping the community create fun holiday memories at Woodland Mall.”
With every pet photo purchase, families will receive a pet handkerchief for their furry friends while supplies last.
Santa will be on-site during regular mall hours for family photos without pets through Christmas Eve.
SantaFest, Jewish holiday, and much more
SantaFest, a celebration of everything wonderful about the holiday season, will kick off at the mall at 10 a.m. on Nov. 17. The event will feature live music, games, crafts and holiday gift giveaways through 1 p.m. While the event is free to attend, pre-registration beginning Nov. 8 at shopwoodlandmall.com is recommended.
Woodland Mall is once again partnering with Chabad House of Western Michigan to display a 6-foot tall menorah for Hanukkah from Dec. 2 until Dec. 10. A Hanukkah story will be read during Barnes & Noble’s storytime event at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 6.
“It means a lot to have our Jewish faith represented in the mall,” said Rivka Weingarten, program director of Chabad House of Western Michigan. “It’s always very touching for us to have a menorah displayed publicly, and to be able to take pride in our Jewish community here.”
Woodland Mall is also partnering with Artists Creating Together, an organization that brings the arts and art projects to children, youth and adults with disabilities, to present a holiday concert at the mall from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 3.
“Our concert at Woodland Mall is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our students’ skills and the joy they get out of participating in our programming,” said Krista Prischner, ACT program coordinator. “It is really exciting for our students to perform in a public space, and especially at the mall during the busy holiday season.”
Musicians from the organization’s drum and choir groups will perform a few holiday songs, some of which will include an opportunity for audience participation. The performance is free and open to the public to enjoy.
“This is truly a magical time of year for all the retailers at the mall,” said McCabe. “We’re delighted to be working with organizations such as ACT and the Chabad House to offer a variety of holiday activities for all our shoppers to enjoy.”
The mall will be open on Thanksgiving evening from 6 p.m. to midnight and on Black Friday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Woodland Mall will have special holiday hours to ensure that guests are able to get all their shopping completed before the holiday. The Woodland Mall website has a full list of updated hours.
Several seasonal stores offering gift items for the holidays are open now at Woodland Mall. For custom ornaments, shoppers can visit Christmas Treasures in the Von Maur Wing. For toys and handmade goods from Michigan-owned businesses, there’s Roeda Studio and The Glove in the Macy’s Wing, and Toysaro in Center Court.
Researchers recommend exercising about 150 minutes each week, including some strength-training exercises. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
By Kim Delafuente, Spectrum Health Beat
New studies continue to add credence to the critical link between good brain health and regular exercise.
A recent study by researchers in Texas, for instance, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, found an association between higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness and better “fiber integrity” in the brain’s white matter.
This correlated to better “executive function performance” in patients with mild cognitive impairment, according to the study.
These types of contemporary findings abound, with researchers perpetually seeking to understand the connections between brain health and physical activity.
What we do know is that physical activity is proven to reduce stress, improve mood, increase self-confidence, improve memory, reduce symptoms of depression and reduce the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease by up to 50 percent.
But what’s really going on under the hood? Let’s take a look at some known areas.
Hippo power
The area of the brain responsible for memory formation, the hippocampus, shrinks as a normal process of aging. In people who are physically active, however, the hippocampus can actually increase. This tells us exercise aids in the growth of brain cells in certain areas of the brain.
Neural nitrogen
Physical activity increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which acts as something of a brain fertilizer. It is essential to learning and memory. The increase here not only helps with brain cell interconnectivity, it also aids in the growth of new brain cells.
Anti-depressant
In some cases, exercise can generate the same effect as an anti-depressant in those with mild depression. Research shows that active people tend to be less depressed, which means that exercise may benefit those who suffer from depression.
Brain-building
Physically active children may reap the benefits in a number of areas, including better performance on tests, fewer behavioral problems and improved retention of information.
Stress, anxiety reliever
Exercise can help the body respond better to anxiety disorders. A study by researchers in Chicago also found modest evidence to support the notion that “regular exercise protects against the negative emotional consequences of stress.”
Exactly how much physical activity is needed to reap brain benefits?
As it applies to healthy adults, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, as well as some muscle-strengthening activities two days a week.
The activity should be hard enough to increase your breathing and heart rate.
One recent study found that people who exercised more than an hour each day had healthier brain characteristics compared to people who exercised less.
But you don’t have to dive in headlong. If you are currently inactive, start with just a 5- or 10-minute walk each day. Something is always better than nothing. A small amount of exercise can be enough to put you in a better mood and increase your energy.
But keep in mind that the level of fitness and endurance may matter in the long run. A higher endurance level is related to better cognitive abilities.
The more exercise you do, the greater the benefits!
Fall is the perfect time to plan a getaway in West Michigan. With all the fall colors tours, Halloween happenings, and events throughout the state, you’ll want to get out and see everything. Take advantage of fall lodging specials and packages to make it easier when planning your fall adventure.
Plan a getaway to Marshall with a stay at the National House Inn. This bed and breakfast is the oldest operating inn in Michigan. The serenity is contagious, the sense of history infectious, and the number of events and special packages numerous. Drive through the country roads for a spectacular fall color tour and relax at this cozy nineteenth-century inn complete with modern conveniences.
Within the picturesque village of Saugatuck, as well as the surrounding southwest Michigan countryside, there are ample choices for lodging. From bed & breakfasts, hotels, motels, resorts, cottages, beachfront vacation homes, and vacation rentals, there is something for everyone. For a full list of places to stay, including lodging specials, visit their website.
Find out what fall’s all about in Saugatuck with a Lakeshore Lodging stay. With beautiful natural spots to take in the fall colors, a variety of great apple orchards and pumpkin patches, and Lakeshore Lodging’s selection of cozy places to call home, the Saugatuck area is perfect for an autumnal retreat.
Lodging Specials in Central West Michigan
The DoubleTree Hotel & Conference Center in Holland has discounts and specials throughout the fall for your entire group. Through December, they’re providing free breakfast for groups booking more than 40 room nights and 25% off the best available rate for groups of 10 or more rooms. If you book a meeting space in November, you’ll receive 50% off of room rental fee and 10% off food and beverage catering. Take advantage of these offers and stay well within budget for your upcoming event or tour.
Hart House Bed & Breakfast in Hart has teamed up with a local sports outfitters to offer an enriching experience on the water. Explore the natural resources of the area’s beautiful waterways, learn about the flora and fauna, unplug, relax, and restore. Let owners Greg and Bonny know your interest at the time of your reservation and they will customize a float for you.
The Ultimate Romance Package at the Holiday Inn in Spring Lake makes it easy to celebrate an anniversary or get out of town with a loved one. Your stay includes chocolate covered strawberries and champagne in your room, roses, and breakfast and dinner for two.
This fall and winter, take advantage of the Ludington area’s lodging specials and packages. The area’s hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, resorts, and cottages offer discounted room rates and enticing packages that will make your stay in Pure Ludington both more enjoyable and more affordable.
The Lamplighter Bed & Breakfast in Ludington has partnered with local shops, restaurants, golf courses, and boating charters to bring you exclusive experiences and upgrades. Enhance your stay and do something extra special to make your time in Ludington even more memorable.
Muskegon lodging facilities offer full-service hotels in downtown Muskegon and the brands you know and trust throughout the county. Quaint bed and breakfasts and seasonal vacation rentals line the lakes, with specials and packages offered throughout the year.
Michigan’s Central Swing has fall golf discounts in the Mt. Pleasant area! Choose from 11 champion style courses and 11 relaxing retreats to create your perfect golf getaway. All you need to do is tell Michigan Central Swing what you want, and they’ll do the rest for you! Stay in comfort and leave the planning to the professionals, giving you more time to perfect that golf swing.
It doesn’t matter if your a chardonnay sipper or a porter pounder, there will probably be something to your taste at the 11th Annual Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival, returning Nov. 15-17 to DeVos Place downtown.
Three days overflowing with food, beverage and culinary-themed entertainment presented by area chefs, restaurants and purveyors of the spectrum of libations — including of the caffeinated variety. What’s not to like?
Six restaurants will offer “pairing menus” throughout the festival, a chance to sit down with the chef and watch as they prepare an elegant multi-course meal table-side paired with the finest wine, beer or spirits. Advanced reservations are required. An additional 15 restaurants serve up small plate offerings.
It is on the beverage side of the street that variety is really available, and there is literally whole sections dedicated to one’s beverage of choice.
The Vineyard are will feature 1,200 plus wines of all styles. Hemingway Hall will showcase craft spirits and cocktails from Michigan’s finest distilleries. The Beer City Station – OK, my favorite place to wait for a train that will never come — will just about the entire craft brewing world. Cider Row will focus on hard ciders made locally and beyond. And, because we all need to drink responsibly if not eat so, RendezBREW will offer cordials and coffees paired with desserts and other delicious “nightcap” offerings.
The festival will also be food demonstrations, educational tasting lessons — including one called “Not Your Grandma’s Rosé: A Tasting of Rosés”; got to love that! — as well as cocktail workshops. And for the ear buds while you are working the tastebuds? Throughout the weekend, musical entertainment will include Melophobix in The Vineyard, Jake & Jimmy Band and Valentiger on the Beer City Station Music Stage and a variety of performers in the RendezBREW seating area in the Grand Gallery.
The festival will run Thursday, Nov. 15 and run through Saturday, Nov. 17, and hours are 6-9 p.m. Thursday, 4-10 p.m. Friday and 2-10 p.m. Saturday.
Advanced tickets for the Festival may be purchased online for $15 per person and are valid for a one-time use Thursday, Friday or Saturday. A 3-Day Pass is also available. Once inside, festivalgoers can purchase tasting tickets for 50-cents each which are used for all food and beverage tastings (excluding the special pairing menus), with each sample requiring a varied amount of sampling tickets. Admission is for those 21 or older, and valid ID is required to purchase tickets and to enter.
Beer bread with really good beer: Who would have thought?
Over the summer, favorite Cedar Springs Brewing Company beers were baked into Cedar Rock Bread Company’s fresh homemade breads and sold at the brewery’s farmers market. Now, those same tasty loaves will be available for purchase year round in the CSBrewery Shoppe.
“Part of our mission is community involvement, so we were happy to work with Kris and her team at Cedar Rock Bread Company through our CSBrew Farmers Market this summer,” David Ringler, Cedar Springs Brewing Company’s Director of Happiness, said in supplied material. “Together, we created authentic, classic breads using our traditional beers, which are made using only four ingredients.”
Fresh beer bread, and humor, are served up at Cedar Springs Brewery and the CSBrewery Shoppe next door. (CSBrewery Facebook photo)
A rotating variety of freshly baked beer breads will be delivered twice weekly to the shop, located at 81 N. Main St NE in Cedar Springs. Customers can purchase styles like Golden Ale Baguette, Golden Grain Artisan Loaf, Irish Stout Rye Sourdough, and IPA Cherry Wheat Bread throughout the week.
The beer bread will also be incorporated into Cedar Spring Brewing Company’s food menu, which can be tasted in the brewery’s taproom at 95 N. Main St NE in Cedar Springs.
“We will feature these breads regularly in sandwiches, appetizers, and specials served in our taproom and Biergarten,” Ringler said.
Grand Rapids-based Long Road Distillers opens new Boyne City location
Business is good at Long Road Distillers as the Grand Rapids-based maker of specialty distilled liquors announced recently that they will be opening a new distillery tasting room in Boyne City. The northern Michigan outlet will be the company’s first offsite tasting room apart from their headquarters on the West Side of Grand Rapids, where they house their production facility, cocktail bar, and restaurant.
Long Road Distillers is located in Grand Rapids — and now at a second location. (Supplied)
“The Long Road team is thrilled to join the Boyne City community,” Kyle VanStrien, Long Road Distillers co-founder and co-owner, said in supplied material. “It’s a beautiful town with a thriving retail district, engaged business community, and countless activities for residents and visitors to enjoy throughout the year.”
The Long Road Tasting Room will be located at 118 Water Street in the heart of the Central Business District in downtown Boyne City.
Northern Michigan has become a vital part of the Long Road story and holds a special place in the hearts of VanStrien and fellow owner and founder Jon O’Connor, according to supplied material.
“We are committed to using Michigan-grown ingredients in our spirits whenever possible,” said O’Connor. “Michigin, our 100 percent Michigan ingredient gin, depends on ingredients grown in Northern Michigan. Our team spends several days each fall harvesting juniper on nearby Beaver Island, and we’ve incorporated galena hops from the Michigan Hop Alliance in Northport to add a citrus component to the gin’s botanical makeup.”
Season tickets and mini ticket plans for the 2019 West Michigan Whitecaps baseball season are now on sale!
The Whitecaps have several different season ticket packages available, starting as low as $67.50. These include a full-season 70-game plan, half-season, 10-game plans, a 5-game, Tigers Wednesdays plans and flexbooks. Season ticket holders receive special perks ranging from a free luxury suite, discounted hot dog/soda vouchers, discounted preferred parking plans, souvenir shop discounts, a ticket buy-back and exchange program, early entry into the ballpark, guaranteed giveaway items and more (not all perks are included in all ticket packages). For complete season ticket plan information including a list of perks for each plan, please visit www.whitecapsbaseball.com.
Box Office Manager Shaun Pynnonen said the 10-game plans and the Tigers Wednesdays plans are sure to be favorites.
“The Tigers Wednesdays plans are always popular. This year fans can choose from five or ten games. Those that purchase one will receive guaranteed giveaway items as well as hot dog/soda vouchers” Pynnonen said. “10-game plans will also be popular this year. These are for the more casual fans that value the great entertainment. They get a few games a month which works out great when planning summer schedules.”
Fans can purchase season tickets and mini plans online here or by calling the Whitecaps front office at (616) 784-4131. Current season ticket holders have until Friday, December 14 to renew their season ticket locations; after that new season ticket holder seat locations will be selected.
Tickets for groups of 20 or more, including private party areas, will go on sale on Friday, November 16. Individual game tickets will go on sale in early 2019.
Is your memory failing you? Don’t assume the worst. You may have a reversible condition. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
By Diane Benson, Spectrum Health Beat
Brain fog … Can’t clear the cobwebs … I know I know this … Wait, wait, don’t tell me … Really, it’s on the tip of my tongue.
What did I do yesterday? (Hmmm. Good question).
If this sounds like your state of mind (or lack thereof), you may have dementia.
Hold on. Don’t panic.
Dementia, defined as problems with memory or thinking and changes in personality or behavior, can be reversible.
In fact, more than 50 conditions can cause or mimic the symptoms of dementia.
“Short-term memory loss, like difficulty remembering recent events, is often the most pronounced symptom of both reversible and non-reversible dementias,” said Maegan Hatfield-Eldred, Ph.D., a clinical neuropsychologist with Spectrum Health Medical Group.
Common causes of reversible dementia include depression, vitamin B12 deficiency, drug or alcohol abuse and under-active thyroid.
“We associate the word ‘dementia’ with permanence, something that’s going to get worse or is incurable,” Dr. Hatfield said. “But with these conditions, symptoms subside, or are reversed, when the underlying problem is treated.”
Many medications can also cause dementia-like symptoms.
As we age, the liver and kidneys don’t work as efficiently so drugs tend to accumulate in the body, become toxic and cause problems. Elderly people in poor health and those taking several different medications are especially vulnerable.
Stressed-out caregivers beware
Another increasingly common cause for scary dementia symptoms is stress. And those overwhelmed by caring for others are particularly at risk.
“So-called ‘caregiver dementia’—cognitive and memory issues brought on by the stress of caring for a loved one—is a very real phenomenon,” Dr. Hatfield said.
Fortunately, caregiver dementia is reversible. Symptoms go away when the stress and depression are resolved, which can be particularly reassuring for those immersed in primary caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s.
“These folks start to notice similar symptoms in themselves and think, ‘I have this, too,’” Dr. Hatfield said. “But it’s because they see and experience (the dementia) day in and day out. And that’s extremely stressful. It’s tough managing their own lives and caring for someone else, too.”
What’s typically at work here is the stress hormone, cortisol, she said. Chronic stress can affect the ways in which our brains function in the present, and may seriously alter our brain health in the years to come.
Chronic anxiety and depression also affect brain function and behavior.
“It’s so important to get help, to be proactive in overcoming these feelings and address any issues,” Dr. Hatfield said. “Don’t let things go or build up. Stress reduction is something to take very seriously.”
Younger people are not immune either, she said. Pronounced and dramatic memory issues due to extreme stress can happen to people in their 20s and 30s.
Is it dementia or something else?
Some reversible dementias are easier to diagnose than irreversible dementias because they can be identified by medical tests. Others are more difficult to pin down.
To tell for certain, Dr. Hatfield advises seeing a neuropsychologist for testing. She suggests using age to help determine when, or if, testing is necessary.
“If you’re under age 50, we tend to be less concerned about a non-reversible dementia like Alzheimer’s disease because they’re incredibly uncommon in younger adults,” she said. “Instead, we look at stress, depression or other medical conditions first.”
But if you’re over age 65 and notice memory problems it’s a good idea to get it checked out with a full neuropsychological evaluation.
“Everyone has challenges with memory and thinking at one time or another,” Dr. Hatfield said. “Neuropsychological assessment measures how your brain is functioning compared to others your same age. It’s also very good at differentiating cognitive problems caused by stress or depression from problems caused by a non-reversible dementia.”
If your test scores fall outside the normal range, she said, doctors have key information to help identify a cause.
To make an appointment with a neuropsychologist at the Spectrum Health Memory Disorders Clinic, call 616.267.7104.
Halloween is a great time for kids. The Michigan State Police want to keep it that way. (Supplied)
By Michigan State Police
Halloween is filled with excitement and spooky tricks, but with Halloween being the deadliest night of the year for pedestrians, the Michigan State Police is reminding parents to make safety a priority.
On average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year, according to Safe Kids Worldwide.
“Part of enjoying Halloween festivities is recognizing possible dangers and taking precautions,” said Community Service Trooper Martin Miller, Rockford Post. “There are potential risks involved with trick-or-treating, but with the proper safety measures everyone can have an enjoyable and safe Halloween.”
Trick-or-treat safety tips include:
Children of any age should be accompanied by an adult.
Cross the street only at corners or crosswalks. Do not cross the street between parked cars.
Carry a flashlight. Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more visible.
Accept treats at the door and never go into a stranger’s house. Only visit homes that have the porch light on.
Stay in familiar neighborhoods. Plan your route and share it with your family. Stay in a group.
Stay in populated and well-lit areas.Do not cut through back alleys or fields.
Make sure all costumes are flame retardant.Avoid walking too close to open fires, candles and jack-o-lanterns.
Make sure an adult inspects all candy before eating it.Do not eat candy that is already opened.
Four area teams are going to the playoffs this year, including Tri-unity Christian, South Christian, Godwin Heights and East Kentwood. Although the first round of the playoffs can be a door to something bigger, all four coaches are taking a “back-to-basics” approach this week.
“We’re just trying to keep things consistent,” Godwin Heights head coach Brandan Kimble, echoing his fellow coaches, said to WKTV.
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Kimble and his team are taking on the South Christian Sailors Friday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m., at East Kentwood High School. Godwin Heights finished the regular season 6-3, while Mark Tamminga’s South Christian Sailors gained the playoffs as an at-large team with a 5-4 record.
For Kimble, this week comes with excitement and uncertainty. The Wolverines started off the season 1-3, but as players became more comfortable with their coach and started buying into the system, Kimble says that’s when things started to take off. Now their hoping their kids can keep with the system a little longer.
“We’re just trying to keep things consistent,” said Kimble. “We’re just going to change a few things so they can understand the importance of the week, tweak some things and then add a little bit more intensity to practice.”
Curt Copeland, assistant coach and athletic director for South Christian, is trying to help head coach Mark Tamminga win their first playoff game since 2014, the year they won their last championship.
“We’re trying to retrain our kids and get them back to understanding what it takes to make a deep run and it starts with the first week of the playoffs,” said Copeland.
Also at East Kentwood High School this weekend is East Kentwood’s opening round playoff game. The Falcons (8-1) will be hosting Brighton High School. Located towards Eastern Michigan, the Bulldogs went 7-2, with their only loses coming twice to Belleville.
East Kentwood won their final game last week against Rockford, giving them the OK-Red title. And head coach Anthony Kimbrough couldn’t be more excited for his kids.
“I coach because of them,” said Kimbrough. “I come out everyday seeing these kids wanting to get better. One of our goals was to be OK-Red champs, and beating Rockford Friday, for that to come true is tremendous for our program.”
In 8-man playoff action, head coach Tim Heath and his Tri-unity team have gone 9-0 this season, beating No. 2 ranked Colon in Week 9. They will be hosting Webberville at Grandville Middle School,m also Friday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m. Colon finished their season 4-5, another at-large team sneaking into the playoffs.
Coach Heath doesn’t plan on changing anything in preparation of his Defenders. For his undefeated team, Heath’s mantra for this week is “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.
“We don’t do anything different,” said Heath. “… The same preparation that goes into every game we’re taking into this game.”
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This week’s WKTV Featured Game and other sports events are cable broadcast either live, immediately after the event and/or in rebroadcast, on Comcast WKTV Channel 25 and on AT&T U-Verse Community 99.
WKTV’s featured football games are rebroadcast on the night of the game (Thursday or Friday) at 11 p.m. and Saturday starting at 11 a.m. See WKTVjournal.org/sports for complete schedules.
Prolonged periods of sitting could lead to serious health problems. Could an anti-sitting campaign gain traction? (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
By Kim Delafuente, Spectrum Health Beat
Here’s a question for the youngsters: Did you know that, up until recent years, most corners of society considered smoking to be socially acceptable?
Just 10 years ago, in fact, restaurants in many states still offered smoking sections. It’s truly a silly concept, given that cigarette smoke travels throughout the restaurant anyway.
Opposition to smoking began to emerge in the late 1960s and ’70s, but there had been little in the way of enforcements or taboos up until the 1980s, ’90s and ’00s.
These days, the smoking rate in the U.S. is at its lowest point in decades, with about 15.5 percent of adults identifying as smokers. (That’s down from a high of about 42 percent in the 1960s.)
America’s anti-smoking campaign may come to exemplify how society approaches another topic: sitting.
That’s right, sitting.
At work, at home, in our cars, watching events and so on, we spend a lot of time sitting. We sit an average of nine to 10 hours each day, not to mention the time we spend sleeping.
But just as it was with smoking, sitting has a negative impact on our health.
Within an hour of sitting, we see declines in our fat metabolism and our HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol).
So how did we get here?
Technology has eliminated the need to manually open our garage doors, get up and sharpen our pencils, play board games, scrapbook or even get up and talk to coworkers. Instant messaging apps and emails make it all too easy to send a quick question to someone just down the hall.
We don’t have to make our own meals or go to the store as often—or at all.
Throughout this evolution, movement has been minimized from our daily lives. In many cases, movement has become optional and unnecessary.
Sitting has, by all measures, become the norm.
But sitting too much is not the same as not getting enough exercise.
When we hear the recommendations to get up and move every hour, to spend less time watching TV, to take the stairs, etc., remember that even the smallest movements have health benefits.
As your muscles contract, fat begins to shift from your blood stream to the moving muscles. This reactivates your fat metabolism.
Can you prevent the negative health effects of sitting too much when you’re someone who exercises regularly?
Maybe not.
Even people who exercise regularly—those who meet the physical activity guidelines of 150 minutes or more a week—may undo some of the positive health benefits of exercise if they simply spend the rest of the day sitting.
Add small movements into your day.
Find activities that you can do standing instead of sitting: talking on the phone, folding the laundry, reading email.
Do you fidget? That’s great! Tap your foot, twirl your hair and stand up to stretch.
At its peak, 42 percent of the adult population in the U.S. smoked.
Is sitting the new smoking?
From a numbers standpoint, it could be worse. A significant portion of the population spends the day sitting, which means this particular problem is systemic.
The good news is that poor health is preventable through public health campaigns, personal action and societal awareness.
Big corporations are starting to lead the way. In the construction of its state-of-the-art tech campus, Apple installed adjustable desks that allow all employees to choose if they want to sit or stand while working at their computers.
If you don’t have an adjustable desk, try to find creative solutions that let you stand during some of the workday. At a minimum, get up and take a break to stand and stretch every once in a while.
The Merrell team will be out and about on local urban and traditional trails this Saturday, Oct. 20 with the goal of surprising Grand Rapids residents along the way. As part of their “Merrell Magic” campaign that’s been happening across the nation this year, hikers that come across the Merrell crew at parks and trails including, but not limited to, Ada Seidman and Fallsburg, will be delighted to receive items such as swag, gift cards and more.
Merrell believes in the profound power of the trail and is looking forward to celebrating the fall trails in their own backyard here in greater Grand Rapids.
Coinciding with the Merrell team dispersing around the city and surrounding areas to spread “Merrell Magic” on the trails, the brand has also teamed up with Liz Thomas, the queen of urban thru-hiking, to hike West Michigan’s “Ale Trail” starting Wednesday, Oct. 17 in Cedar Springs (North Country Trail) and ending Saturday, Oct. 20 in downtown Grand Rapids.
Liz’s four-day urban hike will make stops at 25 breweries in and around Grand Rapids and showcase that hiking can be done in an urban setting with the added experience of exploring the local beer scene.
Liz Thomas’ Urban Thru Hike Schedule:
Wednesday, October 17 (14 miles, 3 Breweries)
Start: Cedar Springs Brewing; End: Comstock Park
Breweries: Cedar Springs Brewing Company (11 a.m.), Rockford Brewing Company (2 p.m.), Bier Distillery (4:30 p.m.)
Thursday, October 18 (24 miles, 9 Breweries)
Start: Comstock Park; End: East Grand Rapids
Breweries: Perrin (11 a.m.), Hideout (1:30 p.m.), Creston (3:40 p.m.), The Bob (5 p.m.), Fountain Hill (5:45 p.m.), ELK Brewing (6:45 p.m.), Brewery Vivant (7:30 p.m.), East West (9 p.m.), Harmony (9:40 p.m.)
Friday, October 19 (21 miles, 4 breweries)
Start: East Grand Rapids; End: Grand Rapids near Brass Ring
Breweries: Thornapple (11 a.m.), Schmolz (12:30 p.m.), Jaden James (2:30 p.m.), Brass Ring (5:45 p.m.)
Saturday, October 20th Team Merrell Magic Day (13 miles (2.5 miles to Outside Coffee Co.), 9 breweries)
Breweries: Grand Rapids Brewing Co. (10am), HopCat (10:30am), Founders (11:25 p.m.), Atwater (1:20 p.m.), City Built (2:30 p.m.), Greyline (3:20 p.m.), The Mitten (4:10 p.m.), Jolly Pumpkin (5:10 p.m.), New Holland Knickerbocker (5:40 p.m.). Times may vary based on the Michigan-Michigan State game.
Disc golf is big in West Michigan and is now on WKTV cable television. (U.S. Air Force photo)
By City of Kentwood
The City of Kentwood is hosting two events in November to say farewell to fall and kick off the holidays: Fall Fling at Old Farm Park, a disc golf tournament, on Saturday, Nov. 10, and an Ugly Sweater Cross County 5K run on Saturday, Nov. 17.
Community disc golfers of all levels are invited to join in the Fall Fling at Old Farm Park (2350 Embro Dr. SE), a doubles disc golf tournament and food drive. On-site registration begins at 9 a.m. The first round of the tournament starts at 10 a.m. The cost to pre-register online is $40, along with one canned food donation per team.
Proceeds raised will go towards the Kentwood Parks and Recreation Youth Scholarship Fund, which allows recipients to receive up to 50 percent off of one program per season. Food donations will go to Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry, where area residents are encouraged to take or donate food and household supplies for community members in need.
“We had a great turnout for the first disc golf tournament we held last February, called, Freeze Fest. Participants from that event expressed an interest in doing another, and we were happy to oblige,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “In addition to being a fun way to soak up fall weather before winter comes, the Fall Fling is for a good cause.”
The Freeze Fest disc golf event held last February included over 120 participants. In addition to restocking Little Free Pantry with canned goods, the event raised nearly $2,300 for the Youth Scholarship Fund and an additional $235 for the pantry.
The Ugly Sweater 5K run will feature a route that showcases two Kentwood parks and a portion of the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail. Check-in, on-site registration and packet pick-up will all take place at 10:30 a.m. the morning of the race at East Paris Nature Park, located at 5995 East Paris Ave. SE. The race will begin at noon.
“We’re looking forward to seeing people flaunt their best ugly sweaters on the cross-country course” said Romeo. “The race route will allow runners to enjoy the beautiful fall scenery and weather. Most of the course will be on a paved path that weaves through two of our 14 parks.”
While the 5K is intended to be a fun run, volunteers will be timing participants. Results will be online after the event is complete. Water stations and medical aid services along the course.
Registration costs $25 until Oct. 31, after which the price will increase to $30. Proceeds from the race will also support the Youth Scholarship Fund. Individuals interested in racing can register online.
St. Cecilia Music Center’s School of Music youth jazz program performance with Robin Connell conducting, from 2017. (Supplied/St. Cecilia Music Center)
Robin Connell, who wears many hats on the Grand Rapids music scene including director of the St. Cecilia Music Center’s youth jazz ensemble, has picked up another gig at St. Cecilia.
Connell was announced last month as the new conductor of the center’s adult Grand Band, and there is general agreement that means more “fun” for all.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled that Robin is conducting the St. Cecilia Music Center Grand Band,” Martha Cudipp Bundra, St. Cecilia education director, said to WKTV. “She has been teaching our Jazz Combo program for 4 years now and the students love her. Robin has extensive teaching experience and knowledge that will enhance the musical experience for our adult band members. She brings a unique style to her teaching and a great sense of fun.”
Rehearsals of the Grand Band have begun for the new season but new members are always welcome to inquire and no auditions are required. The band rehearses 9:30-11:30 a.m. Monday mornings.
“The adult band is so much fun,” Connell said to WKTV. “It has a lot of members who have been it for many years. But newbies come, too.”
For more information on the Grand Band for adults, visit here. St. Cecilia’s youth jazz ensembles, one of which Connell leads, will hold auditions on Tuesday, Oct. 16. For more information visit here.
St. Cecilia, Connell have history
“I’m thrilled and honored to be working at SCMC,” Connell said. “The various concerts and education programs offered are phenomenal and integral to downtown Grand Rapids.
Robin Connell
“We really appreciate SCMC hosting the youth jazz program (which started in 2014) and the amazing support we get financially and administratively. … Martha is great to work with as the director of education, but I also need to sing the praises of our administrative assistant, Rebecca Steinke. She assists Martha in various ways with all the ensembles and is there at night when we rehearse, too. And she plays flute in the Grand Band!”
Connell, according to a supplied biography, is a jazz pianist-vocalist with a doctorate of arts in music theory and composition from the University of Northern Colorado. Her career as a performing musician, composer, and educator, is an alternating kaleidoscope of jazz and classical endeavors.
Her educator credits include teaching at Aquinas College, Grand Rapids Community College, Long Island University, Garden City Community College, the Interlochen Center for the Arts (20 summers), the Aquinas Jazz Camp, and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp.
In addition to teaching, Robin continues to lead her own jazz groups and perform as a “side woman” locally and afar, traveling extensively as performer, guest composer-conductor, and clinician/adjudicator. Since 2014, Robin also co-produces and hosts the “Jazz in the Sanctuary” concert series at Grand Rapids’ Fountain Street Church.
Two bands, two different experiences
As far as her expanding teaching load at St. Cecilia, Connell says there are similarities but also unique aspects to working with adults as opposed to youth.
“There is very little similarity between the youth jazz combo and the Grand Band adults, other than everyone’s shared love of playing music,” she said. “Most jazz band scores that are playable by younger students have simpler instrumentation than concert band music … My husband (Paul Brewer) directs the youth jazz big band. There is a bit more similarity between that band and a concert band in that all the music is written out, with very little improvised.
The St. Cecilia Grand Band in rehearsal at the music center’s Royce Auditorium, from 2016. (WKTV)
“The concert band music is completely written out and players must adhere to the written notes. The conductor’s job is to become immersed in the score, to internalize it, and ‘coach’ the ensemble as per the conductor’s interpretation.”
But Connell said she is getting into working with the adults.
“I am enjoying digging into completely different repertoire and having the chance to work on my conducting skills more,” she said. “There are also a lot of women in the band whereas the youth bands are almost all boys. I’m totally used to being the only woman, or in the minority, but I’m really also enjoying rehearsing a group with a lot of women — and men — who are totally geeked about instrumental music.”
Shameless plug for a great music series
The “Jazz in the Sanctuary” series begins its fifth season Nov. 4 with “Paul Brewer & Altin Sencalar in Tribute to J & K”, a concert featuring a jazz quintet, led by trombonists Brewer and Sencalar, performing the compositions and arrangements of J.J. Johnson & Kai Winding. More dates are scheduled in 2019. For more information visit fountainstreet.org/jazz.
October brings trick or treats on Halloween but also the close out of some of the fall sports seasons.
WKTV’s Mike Moll.
The regular season of football completes its schedule the weekend of Oct. 19-20 and opens its playoffs the following weekend. Girls golf will hold its regional tournaments Oct. 10-11, with qualifiers for state finals that will be held the weekend of Oct. 19-20 to headline the sports tournaments but there are plenty of others.
Be sure to check the complete sports schedule each week to see when and where your favorite teams and sports are playing.
The featured WKTV games will continue during the regular season of football and if there are any of our local teams that qualify for the playoffs, depending on when and where those games are played we might be covering them as well. The playoff schedules will be announced on Sunday, Oct. 21 with Pre-District games kicking off the following weekend.
The remaining featured football broadcast schedule is:
Friday, Oct. 12 — Hudsonville at East Kentwood
Friday, Oct. 19 — Wyoming Lee at Godwin Heights
All games, as well as other high school sports and community events covered by WKTV, are available on-demand within a week of play at wktvondemand.com .
For a complete schedule of all local high school sports action each week, any changes to the WKTV feature sports schedule, and features on local sports, visit wktvjournal.org/sports/
Following is the end of this week’s schedule:
Tuesday, Oct. 9
Boys Soccer
Calvin Christian @ Godwin Heights
Kelloggsville @ Potter’s House
Wyoming @ Middleville T-K
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Calvary
FH Eastern @ South Christian
Zion Christian @ Wellsprings Prep
Boys/Girls Cross Country
Wyoming @ Saranac
Girls Volleyball
Wyoming @ Forest Hills Eastern
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Calvary
South Christian @ Christian
Potter’s House @ Kalamazoo Heritage
Grand River Prep @ West Michigan Aviation
Zion Christian @ Wellsprings Prep
Wednesday, Oct. 10
Boys/Girls Cross Country
Godwin Heights @ Belding
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Wyoming Lee @ Belding
Girls Volleyball
Godwin Heights @ West Michigan Aviation
Boys Water Polo
Rockford @ East Kentwood
Boys Soccer
West Ottawa @ East Kentwood
Girls Golf
South Christian at Unity Christian – MHSAA Regionals Division 3
Thursday, Oct. 11
Boys Soccer
Godwin Heights @ Hopkins
Kelloggsville @ Wyoming Lee
South Christian @ Wyoming
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River
Wellsprings Prep @ Potter’s House
Fruitport Calvary @ Grand River Prep
West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian
Girls Volleyball
Godwin Heights @ Calvin Christian
Union @ Kelloggsville
Grand Haven @ East Kentwood
Wyoming @ Wayland
Tri-Unity Christian @ Holland Black River
South Christian @ East Grand Rapids
Wellsprings Prep @ Potter’s House
Fruitport Calvary @ Grand River Prep
West Michigan Aviation @ Zion Christian
NorthPointe Christian @ Wyoming Lee
Boys Tennis
Wyoming at Mattawan – MHSAA Regionals Division 2
Kelloggsville @ South Christian – MHSAA Regionals Division 4
Girls Golf
East Kentwood at GVSU – MHSAA Regionals Division 1
Girls Swimming
Rockford @ East Kentwood
South Christian @ West Catholic
Friday, Oct. 12
Boys Football
Godwin Heights @ NorthPointe Christian
Kelloggsville @ Belding
Hudsonville @ East Kentwood – WKTV Featured Event
Wyoming @ FH Eastern
Tri-Unity Christian @ Bellaire
South Christian @ Middleville T-K
Potters House/Calvin Christian @ Manistee
Hopkins @ Wyoming Lee
Boys Tennis
East Kentwood at Hudsonville – MHSAA Regionals Division 1
Saturday, Oct. 13
Girls Volleyball
Potter’s House @ Godwin Heights – Pink Out Tournament
Wyoming Lee @ Godwin Heights – Pink Out Tournament
FH Central @ East Kentwood – EK Invitational
Tri-Unity Christian @ Kalamazoo – The Point
South Christian @ Troy
Boys Water Polo
TBA @ East Kentwood – EK Invitational
Boys/Girls Cross Country
East Kentwood @ Christian
Tri-Unity Christian @ Christian
Wyoming Lee @ Christian
Monday, Oct. 15
Boys Soccer
Godwin Heights @ Wyoming Lee – MHSAA Districts
Grand River Prep @ Covenant Christian – MHSAA Districts
Kelloggsville @ South Christian – MHSAA Districts
East Kentwood @ Kalamazoo Central – MHSAA Districts
"Dreaming permits each and every one of us to be quietly and safely insane every night of our lives."
~William Dement
It’s now or never
Veteran head coach Don Galster knows his Rockets need a win Friday night against NorthPointe Christian keep alive realistic hopes of his team getting to the playoffs for the third year in a row. But a disappointing loss to Godwin Heights last week isn’t going to stop these Rockets from taking off.
Kelloggsville is now 3-3 overall and 2-1 in the OK Silver conference. Last season, the Rockets defeated NorthPointe, 36-21, as part of a 9-0 regular season.
Thanks to the tremendous response from fans, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band’s show at SMG-managed Van Andel Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2018, has SOLD OUT. As a result, a second show has been added for Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019, at 8pm.
Tickets for the Jan. 5 date will go on sale Friday, Oct. 5 at 10am. Go here for details.
Start planning
Before you know it, the bright fall foliage will be here.
Weight gain around this time of year may not be from all the food.
Researchers have found that lack of vitamin D reduces fat breakdown and triggers fat storage. So, the lack of sunlight has more to do with the extra gain than all the pumpkin spice lattes. Well, at least some of it.
The autumn season in Michigan brings many small delights, spectacular views, and a variety of fall fun. As the leaves change their colors to warm hues of a sunset, Michigan residents and travelers alike find themselves enjoying every bit of the landscape. In whatever region you visit, you’ll be sure to find remarkable events, eateries, driving routes, tours, and places to enjoy the splendor of all the fall colors while breathing in the crisp autumn air.
Stunning fall colors in southern West Michigan
One of the best ways to see the fall colors of West Michigan is to experience it on high. The Timber Ridge Ski Area chairlift will be open for rides, giving riders a gorgeous view of Gobles and the surrounding landscape. If you’re looking for more adventurous fun at Timber Ridge, head to their Timber Fall Crawl event on Oct. 13th for Jeeps and other vehicles that like to off-road. There are multiple trails for all abilities. Afterward, wind down with your family and friends at the bar with food and drinks.
The Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings is offering plenty of educational and fun-filled experiences for you this fall. Year-round they host exciting activities and learning experiences, including everything from establishing a backyard wildlife habitat to nature hikes. On Oct. 14th, visit the institute for a delicious meal and learning program for brunch. From the dining room, you’ll see all the wonderful autumn colors in nature, especially if you take a small walk through nature. Visit their website to RSVP for the event.
The River Country Tourism Council is hosting the Three Rivers Area Fall Color Tour, a scenic, fun-filled drive with a wide variety of destinations and activities along the way. On Oct. 14th, witness all the magical autumn colors while hiking and walking through great parks, sanctuaries, and preserves. Along this drive, you’ll be able to experience tons of family fun at any one of the 13 stops, from hayrides to campfires.
Courtesy Arts and Eats
One of the best ways to witness the fall foliage is driving along the rural roads of Michigan’s southwestern region. During the weekend-long event Arts and Eats, take a self-driving tour to discover Allegan, Hastings, Van Buren, and other surrounding counties. Beginning Saturday, Oct. 20th, over 60 West Michigan artist studios and galleries are participating in the exciting 8th Annual Arts and Eats.
Another way to enjoy the autumn colors of the City of Hastings is along some of Barry County’s most scenic gravel roads and trails during the Founder’s Fall Fondo. This is a fantastic family event where all ages and abilities can experience the 22-, 36-, or 62-mile courses which was also used for spring’s Barry-Roubaix Killer Gravel Road race.
Fennville’s most iconic farm-to-table restaurant and bar, Salt of the Earth, is the perfect way to wind down after a long day of seeing the fall colors ablaze through the Allegan Woods. Enjoy in-house concerts every Sunday at 6pm.
In the heart of Berrien Springs, Lemon Creek Winery should be on your list of destinations this fall. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the fall colors with the surrounding landscapes and their beautiful vineyard. You’ll be able to enjoy a glass (or a bottle) of one of Michigan’s delightful wines outside. The incredible aromas of grapes and autumn are the perfect pairing. For more activities, take a stroll in their orchard and don’t forget to pick some fresh apples.
In the Saugatuck area, you’ll be able to see the all the fall colors as a true Michigander. There is something for everyone here, whether you enjoy hiking, driving, boating, or biking. The Star of Saugatuck riverboat offers rides along the Kalamazoo River into Lake Michigan. If you’d like to fully immerse yourself in the fall fun, try hiking through the 13 miles of the Saugatuck Dunes State Park or take a refreshing bike ride along Blue Star Highway.
Anywhere you look, you’ll find all the wonderful fall colors Michigan has to offer. After a long day in Saugatuck, rest up and relax with Lakeshore Lodging. While you’re in the area, you can experience bountiful apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and all the colors of autumn.
In South Haven, visit the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum to learn about America’s “Father of Modern Horticulture,” and a pioneer of “New Agrarian” philosophy. Experience a taste of history as you walk through the gorgeous National Historic Site, garden, and park where you’ll see brilliant fall colors. Throughout the year, the museum hosts events that celebrate Bailey’s life and work.
Bell’s Brewery has amazing tours in both Kalamazoo and Comstock locations this fall. Driving along the route between the two, you’ll experience the full bloom of fall foliage. After spending time at the original brewery and Eccentric Café in Kalamazoo, head to the Comstock location to enjoy many of their events going throughout the season.
As a local resident or traveler, enjoy the amazing home to more than 100 lakes, including two chains of lakes, in Coldwater Country. For a unique fall color experience, get out on the water to see the fantastic fall foliage. In Coldwater County, you’ll be able to launch a boat, kayak, or canoe at one of the many public access points. If you’re in town for a brief visit, you can rent a boat from one of the area’s marinas to experience a new perspective of Mother Nature’s magnificent fall color show.
As the fall color tour season begins to emerge, you’re invited to bring the family out to explore the back country roads along the Lake Michigan shoreline stretching throughout Van Buren and Allegan Counties. Nestled along a 30-mile stretch of Michigan’s “Fruit Belt” region lies a collection of orchards, farms, and vineyards known as Lakeshore Harvest Country. The shoreline area is bound to thrill you with its incredible landscape, agricultural presence, and fun places to explore.
Enjoy the fall colors along the banks of the Black River in South Haven aboard the Michigan Maritime Museum’s Lindy Lou cruise as you recapture the golden days from the late 1890s through the 1930s. The Lindy Lou makes daily cruises through October (with permitting weather). Tickets for the guided cruise are $20 per person and include admission to the Michigan Maritime Museum.
Charming fall colors in central West Michigan
The White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau have teamed up, so gather your family and friends to experience the vibrant fall colors during this free, self-guided tour. Every Saturday in October from 10am to 4pm, you’ll have the opportunity to visit stops along the tour to win great prizes, partake in local activities, and enjoy everything the autumn season has to offer. Refreshments will be served at both the Muskegon and Whitehall Depots and kids will receive a free pumpkin that they can decorate on-the-spot. You can pick up a map at either the historic Union Depot in Muskegon or at the White Lake Area Chamber for this great tour.
In the land of the Great Lakes, we have plenty of fun water-activities this fall. The Mecosta County Fall Color Tour is offering self-guided canoe and kayak trips down the historic Muskegon River. On this tour, you’ll be able to see all of nature’s changing foliage. You will be able to see the majestic colors of Mecosta County and embrace the Muskegon River’s “big rapids.”
Right on the cusp between the central and southwestern regions of West Michigan, lies the charming city of Holland. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the season, and one of our favorites is to experience the fall colors as you climb the dunes of Mount Pisgah, a towering dune east of Holland State Park, which is accessible via a boardwalk and stair system. With its apex 157 feet above Lake Michigan, the boardwalk culminates with scenic views of Lake Macatawa, Lake Michigan, and Big Red. This area is surrounded by a heavily wooded area that features vibrant hues of oranges, reds, and yellows. If you prefer to view the fall colors from the comfort of your car, there are a variety of routes within the Holland area to enjoy the scenery, too.
Be sure to visit Kayla Rae Cellars during your time in the small town of Rockford. There, you’ll find a delicious glass of wine or cider in their wine bar and tasting room. Afterward, walk along the White Pine Trail for an incredible view of autumn’s changing colors. If you’re looking for one of Michigan’s many water tours, you can launch your kayak or canoe to paddle the Rogue River. Rockford is home to scenic views of both their dam and charming downtown.
Courtesy Lewis Farm and Petting Zoo
West Michigan is home to some of the state’s most beautiful farms and agricultural lands. The Lewis Farm and Petting Zoo in New Era is the perfect stop along the beautiful drive between Muskegon and Ludington. Make sure to visit the market for freshly-made apple cider and donuts. Pick up some delicious Michigan apples, or grab a bag of their homemade kettle corn for a road trip snack. If you have the whole day to spend exploring, visit the farm’s corn maze, pumpkin patch, and take a wagon ride to see all the fall colors.
Mt. Pleasant Convention & Visitors Bureau invites you along the banks of the Chippewa River to either take a leisure kayak or canoe tour. Along the shoreline, you’ll be able to experience the area’s incredible fall foliage. Spend the day exploring over 1,000 acres of the city and Isabella County parks.
In the heart of mid-Michigan, take a leisurely cruise on the Michigan Princess Riverboat this October. They operate small hour-and-a-half long lunch trips (almost) every day. Along the shores of the great Grand River, cruise a very scenic stretch of the amazing fall colors just west of Lansing.
SMG-managed DeVos Performance Hall, DeVos Place®, and the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority (CAA) Community Inclusion Group (CIG) has announced “The Series: Creative Expressions of African-American Culture,” and its first event the Dance Theatre of Harlem, which brings their 50th Anniversary Tour to DeVos Performance Hall on Monday, Nov. 12, 2018 at 8pm. Additional events in The Series will be announced in the near future.
“We are pleased to announce the launch of The Series: Creative Expressions of African-American Culture,” said CIG Chairman Darius Quinn. “The Series is a program of the CAA and CIG that is designed to provide consistent, high-quality programming for members of the West Michigan region who have an interest in the various forms of arts and entertainment inspired by African-American culture. We are committed to ensuring that the series is entertaining, empowering, educational and inspiring.”
“We strive to guide the venues in bringing diverse and inclusive entertainment to West Michigan,” added Joe Jones, CIG Member and President/CEO of the Urban League of West Michigan. “The Series follows in line with this vision, and we are excited to bring a set of excellent events to Grand Rapids that both celebrate and reflect the rich and vibrant African-American culture.”
Photo supplied
Dance Theatre of Harlem is a leading dance institute of unparalleled global acclaim whose mission is to maintain a world-class school that trains young people in classical ballet and the allied arts. They provide arts education, community outreach programs and serve as positive role models for all. The Dance Theatre of Harlem presents a ballet company of African-American and other racially diverse artists who perform the most demanding repertory at the highest level of quality. Now a singular presence in the ballet world, the Dance Theatre of Harlem Company tours nationally and internationally, presenting a powerful vision for ballet in the 21st century.
The 16-member, multi-ethnic company performs a forward-thinking repertoire that includes treasured classics, neoclassical works by George Balanchine and resident choreographer Robert Garland, as well as innovative contemporary works that use the language of ballet to celebrate African-American culture. Through performances, community engagement and arts education, the Company carries forward Dance Theatre of Harlem’s message of empowerment through the arts for all.
Tickets for Dance Theatre of Harlem are on sale now. Tickets are available at the DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena® box offices, online at Ticketmaster.com, and charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. See Ticketmaster.com for all current pricing and availability.
Trick-or-treaters are invited to take part in the City of Kentwood’s annual Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 20.
The free event will be held at the Kentwood Department of Public Works facility, located at 5068 Breton Ave. SE, from 10 a.m. to noon. Family friendly activities will include hayrides, face painting, a bounce house and games.
The festival will also feature the community fall-favorite, Trunk or Treat, where various City and community vehicles decorate and fill their trunks with candy.
Residents will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite trunk out of the 30 organizations and community groups that will be handing out candy and other treats throughout the morning.
Children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and bring their own candy-collection bag for the activity.
“Our Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat event gives families a safe and fun environment to take part in Halloween activities,” said Val Romeo, Kentwood Parks and Recreation director. “It’s been exciting watching the event grow with more residents and businesses attending every year.
“All are welcome to join us Oct. 20 for what we hope will be our biggest turnout yet.”
Local businesses and community groups wishing to participate in Trunk or Treat can register for free online. The deadline to sign up is 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12.
Helpers are needed from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Individuals who are interested in volunteering can sign up online.
Looking for a home-away-from-home? With the West Michigan area’s bed and breakfasts, you’re sure to find a warm and welcoming place to spend the night. You’re in good hands when you visit these cozy retreats, as you’re served breakfast each morning and retire to a comfy bed.
Book a stay at one of the area’s most popular bed and breakfasts this fall, the Henderson Castle Inn and Winery in Kalamazoo, for the vacation of a lifetime. You are just minutes away from theaters, shopping, and a vibrant nightlife of downtown, yet secluded enough to enjoy a quiet night free from the noise of the city. Start the day with an incredible breakfast and then soak in the rooftop hot tub while taking in the breathtaking view of downtown Kalamazoo.
When staying at Yelton Manor Bed and Breakfast in South Haven, you can expect impeccable hospitality, lavish gardens, relaxing decks, wholesome food, and spontaneous fun. Just a stone’s throw from the beach and walkable to everything in the laid-back resort of South Haven, this is the perfect destination for your next weekend away.
White Rabbit Inn B&B in Lakeside is every couple’s dream for a romantic weekend away. Surrounded by woods and Lake Michigan, it is the perfect spot to go and escape the hustle and bustle of your everyday life.
Gordon Beach Inn, Union Pier
Recognized by the State of Michigan as a historical site, Gordon Beach Inn in Union Pier should be on your bucket list of places to stay this fall. They have great on-site restaurants and convenient beach access. You can even bring along your furry friend to this pet-friendly hotspot!
Sherwood Forest B&B in Saugatuck invites you to their beautiful wooded setting where they are situated just steps away from Lake Michigan. End the day watching the sunset from their relaxing wraparound porch to complete your perfect getaway.
Serendipity Bed and Breakfast in Saugatuck provides guests with countless amenities to suit every need you may have. Start your day’s adventure with good food and even better company at the daily complimentary breakfast. After breakfast, take on the town, just steps away! Unique shops, artist-owned galleries, great restaurants, the boat docks, boardwalk, and more will have your day filled up with one-of-a-kind adventures.
You will not regret booking your stay at Twin Oaks Inn in Saugatuck. Right in the heart of downtown near countless shops, restaurants, art galleries, and marinas, it makes for the ideal weekend getaway. The inn is also just a short drive to beautiful orchards and wineries, perfect for bringing in the fall season.
National House Inn, Marshall
The city of Marshall is home to some of the best inns and bed and breakfasts in the state, including the celebrated National House Inn, the oldest operating bed and breakfast in Michigan. Their 15 rooms offer modern luxuries with a 19th-century flavor. Your stay at the National House Inn is only a few steps from downtown, museums, shopping, and restaurants.
The capital city of Lansing is the perfect destination for any B&B lover. The city is filled with unique and charming spots perfect for a weekend away that will leave you speechless. These destinations are known for great hospitality and will give you the feeling of time standing still.
Book your stay at the Maplewood Hotel in Saugatuck, a unique boutique hotel with over 150 years of experience in providing nothing short of exceptional hospitality to guests from all over the state.
Wickwood Inn, Saugatuck
The Amble Inn in Fennville is the perfect place to take in the award-winning Art Coast! After checking out nearby galleries, shops, and beaches take the time to relax in a rustic setting and forget all of your worries.
Stop by the Wickwood Inn in Saugatuck for your next weekend getaway or family vacation. The beautiful and cozy inn is stocked with original art, antiques, and an impressive library to help you unwind by the crackling fireplace.
The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, will bring their spectacular show to Grand Rapids during their 2019 World Tour. The famed team will feature a star-studded roster that includes Big Easy Lofton, Ant Atkinson, Hi-Lite Bruton, Thunder Law, Bull Bullard and Cheese Chisholm.* The Globetrotters’ one-of-a-kind show is unrivaled in the world of family entertainment. The Globetrotters will play at Van Andel Arena on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 at 2pm.
Every game will showcase incredible ball-handling wizardry, rim-rattling dunks, trick shots, hilarious comedy and unequaled fan interaction. Prepare to be amazed as the Globetrotters showcase basketball’s first 4-point line, located 30 feet from the basket — 6 feet, 3 inches beyond the top of the NBA’s current 3-point line. You won’t want your family to miss it — buy your tickets today.
Tickets go on sale to the general public beginning Wednesday, Oct. 3 at 10am. Tickets will be available at the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place box offices, online at Ticketmaster.com, and charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. See Ticketmaster for all current pricing and availability.
The Harlem Globetrotters® are legendary worldwide, synonymous with one-of-a-kind family entertainment and great basketball skills for the past 92 years. Throughout their history, the Original Harlem Globetrotters have showcased their iconic talents in 123 countries and territories on six continents, often breaking down cultural and societal barriers while providing fans with their first-ever basketball experience.
Proud inductees of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the Globetrotters have entertained hundreds of millions of fans — among them popes, kings, queens, and presidents — over nine thrilling decades. The American Red Cross is the official charity of the Harlem Globetrotters. For the latest news and information about the Harlem Globetrotters, visit the Globetrotters’ official website, and follow them on Twitter @Globies.
*Rosters will vary in each city and are subject to change.
“We need four hugs a day for survival. We need eight hugs a day for maintenance. We need twelve hugs a day for growth.” — Virginia Satir, family therapist
Kentwood artist’s HUG exhibit an extension of who she is
Meochia Thompson with some friends in an earlier Hugs campaign.
You can find 2018 ArtPrize artist Meochia Thompson giving hugs at church events, retirement homes, or around the community. Now you can find the Kentwood woman downtown embracing strangers during ArtPrize for her entry HUG, a campaign that stands for “help uplift goodness”. To get the details, click here.
Stars of one ArtPrize exhibit is the Wyoming Police K-9 unit
Nidal Kanaan’s ArtPrize piece “Blue Courage” can be found at Flaganan’s Irish Pub.
Inside Flanagan’s Irish Pub in downtown Grand Rapids, you can find food, drinks, and Nidal Kanaan’s ArtPrize entry “Blue Courage.” Photographing the Wyoming Police K-9 unit, Kanaan produced images that ArtPrize attendees will enjoy while stopping in for a quick refreshment. To get the details, click here.
WKTV wants the VOICES of not just artists, but the voters as well
Last year, VOICES debuted at ArtPrize Nine, introducing our 1958 Airstream trailer and collecting the stories of winning ArtPrize artists Daniel Oropreza and Sofia Hernandez Ramirez. This year, VOICES will again collect stories from artists. But we are also bringing our Voters Feedback Booth, right next to the trailer, where voters are encouraged to share what they voted on and why. For get the details, click here.
And today’s fun fact:
3 seconds
Hugs follow a 3-second rule. Ever wondered how long a hug lasts? The quick answer is about 3 seconds, according to a 2011 study of the post-competition embraces of Olympic athletes.
The giant pumpkins at the Farm Garden. (Supplied/Peter McDaniel)
By Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is pleased to present the annual fall horticulture exhibition, Chrysanthemums and More! opening to the public today, on Sept. 21. This exhibition, the largest of its kind in Michigan, features expansive displays of chrysanthemums, fall foliage and family-friendly activities. The exhibition will be on display through Oct. 28.
The annual towers of mums at Meijer Gardens. (Supplied/Peter McDaniel)
This year’s focus will be on “Growing Local”, highlighting the local growers, farms, food and drink featured at Meijer Gardens. Guests will enjoy a wide variety of locally grown elements, including decorative, spoon, cushion, and quill chrysanthemums, with “pompon” blooms as small as a nickel to showy “spider” blooms measuring six inches or more in diameter. This exhibition is a feast for the eyes, displaying the versatility of the magnificent mum and much more.
“Our theme this year is ‘Growing Local’,” explained Steve LaWarre, Director of Horticulture. “This is a remarkable way to showcase many of the local suppliers that we work with throughout the year who provide us with thousands of colorful chrysanthemums, gourds, pumpkins and other ornamental items. With this focus on all things local, we have an chance to highlight the wide variety of chrysanthemums and other items grown locally in an exhibition that has become a wonderful fall tradition for our guests.”
Visitors will be greeted with vibrant displays of chrysanthemums from the moment that they arrive and delighted by abundant floral arrangements of these bold blooms as they walk through the scenic corridor inside of the main building. Upon entering the Seasonal Display Greenhouse, a floor-to-ceiling chrysanthemum display will unfold as a focal point. Presentations of a five-sphere topiary, large disbuds and beds of colorful plantings will complement this feature in the nearby Earl and Donnalee Holton Victorian Garden Parlor. Outdoors, expansive beds of lush chrysanthemums will be arranged in large sweeps of color and will be balanced by a variety of ornamental plantings.
Activities such as the Fall Bonsai Show, Giant Pumpkins and Hallowee-Ones are full of family fun throughout the exhibition. Mum Day on October 14 will give visitors a chance to take a walking tour led by horticulture staff, enjoy informational demonstrations and learn more about the chrysanthemum.
The Balk Café will feature seasonal daily dinner specials on Tuesday evenings, with seasonal ingredients coming from Meijer Gardens’ own Michigan’s Farm Garden.
Exhibition Programming
Fall Family Day, Saturday, Oct. 6, 1–4 p.m., included with admission.
Visit the Children’s Garden for lots of fall family fun. Activities include something for all your senses— Press and Pound Color Banners, Autumn-themed Stories, Tree Vest Craft and an “I-Spy” Naturalist Walk about trees.
Herb & Gourd Fest, Midwest Michigan Herb Association and Michigan Gourd Society, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 13-14, included with admission.
Discover a variety of ways to use herbs and gourds in this annual fall event. A variety of culinary herbs will be featured including hops, the 2018 “Herb of the Year.” Discover the benefits that herbs provide and experience their wonderful fragrances. Kids can participate in a fun art activity with herbs and make their own seed tape to plant in a pot or in the garden next spring. Visit the touchable gourds section and try playing a gourd instrument. Purchase decorated gourds or buy an unfinished gourd and create your own art at home.
Giant Pumpkins at Michigan’s Farm Garden, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 13-14, included with admission
Enjoy giant pumpkins on display at Michigan’s Farm Garden. Weighing in at hundreds of pounds, these pumpkins will amaze kids and adults alike. Learn all about pumpkins as you sort varieties and answer quiz questions at the Pumpkin Discovery cart. Or try your hand at a pumpkin bean bag toss and play a unique pumpkin game “Which Vine is Mine?” to learn about how pumpkins grow.
Mum Day, Sunday, Oct. 14, 1-4 p.m., included with admission
Enjoy tours and demonstrations led by members of the horticulture department.
Tuesdays at the Farm, Tuesday, Oct.r 16 and 23 , 5-8:30 p.m., included with admission
Eat, drink, and dance in the crisp autumn air. A food truck and the Balk Café will be serving up local fresh fare along with West Michigan beers, hot cider, and adult cocktails. Dance to a string band with accompanying square dance caller.
“Every good painter paints what he is,” Jackson Pollock said.
“Treat a work of art like a prince. Let it speak to you first,” said Arthur Schopenhauer.
And Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Art is the path of the creator to his work.”
Everybody has something to say about art. The good news is, you don’t have to be famous to have an opinion—and WKTV VOICES will have its mobile recording studio down at ArtPrize 10 all three weekends to invite and encourage artists and voters to share their own thoughts about art: Artists, what inspires you to create a work of art?
Voters, what compelled you to vote for a particular work of art?
Sofia Hernandez Ramirez
With hundreds of artists and hundreds of thousands of attendees expected at ArtPrize this year, we expect there will be a lot to say—and for us to collect and record.
Last year, VOICES debuted at ArtPrize Nine, introducing our 1958 Airstream trailer and collecting the stories of winning ArtPrize artists Daniel Oropreza and Sofia Hernandez Ramirez.
This year, VOICES will again collect stories from artists. Look for our Airstream on the corner of Lyon and Monroe NW. Look for the Voters Feedback Booth right next to the trailer where voters are encouraged to share what they voted on and why.
A free public service of WKTV, VOICES travels throughout the West Michigan region to encourage neighbors, friends and family to tell their stories—the narratives that make us human—of our lives, experiences, sorrows, triumphs and tragedies. We all benefit from knowing each other’s background; the shared bond that helps us build community.
VOICES’s comfortable, mobile video recording studio offers a relaxed atmosphere, and utilizes high-tech video and audio equipment to capture the narratives for posterity. Interviews usually take place between two people who know and care about each other. These can be friends, family, or mere acquaintances. Any topic may be explored, whether a specific event in a person’s life, a childhood memory, a family tragedy—no subject is off limits.
Oral history—the collection and study of individual histories, experiences of disasters, important events or everyday life—is a tradition as old as civilization itself. Using audiotapes, videotapes, or transcriptions of planned interviews, oral history strives to obtain information from different perspectives, most of which cannot be found in written sources. Some academics consider oral history akin to journalism as both are committed to uncovering truths and compiling narratives about people, places, and events.
VOICES participants find the experience valuable and gratifying. Read and listen to people’s stories online on our Facebook page here and visit our website here for more information and important links.
All VOICES conversations are audio- and video-recorded to provide participants with a link to each conversation and for possible airing on Channel 25 in Wyoming, Kentwood and Gaines Township (U-Verse Channel 99).
The second Saturday of each month, VOICES parks its Airstream trailer at Marge’s Donut Den at 1751 28th St SW, Wyoming, MI for ‘Second Saturdays at Marge’s’. And, beginning Oct. 17, VOICES will be parked at Kentwood Public Library, 4950 Breton Rd. SE, the third Wednesday of each month.
“Art is never finished, only abandoned.”
~ Leonardo da Vinci
Many people in West Michigan look forward to the harvest season every year. The freshest produce is available straight from the farms, and activities like corn mazes, hayrides, and harvest festivals make every weekend a treat. Find your favorite way of celebrating the harvest right here in West Michigan.
Harvest-centric events & festivals
The harvest fun starts after Labor Day at Post Family Farm in Hudsonville. Post Family Farm is serving up pumpkin donuts daily. Activities, including hayrides, the nature trail, and tube tunnels, run through Nov. 3rd.
Be a part of the Farm-to-Table Dinner & Tour at Castle Farms in Charlevoix. On Wednesday, Oct. 10th, enjoy a delightful farm-to-table dinner and live music along with a twilight tour at Castle Farms. Catered by Grey Gables Restaurant & Catering, a local favorite, the three-course meal plus welcome tasting will showcase meats and vegetables sourced from local farms.
The St. Joseph area is hosting three harvest-time events in September, starting with their ongoing farmers market every Saturday through Oct. 13th. The festivities continue on Saturday, Sept. 22nd, for Fall Fest. Bring the family for a weekend filled with fun events for all ages. Live music, local tastes, and Lake Michigan take center stage at the new Roots & Brews on Saturday, Sept. 22nd.
A variety of harvest-centric events are coming to Muskegon this fall. In addition to their farmers market, visit Pioneer County Park from Sept. 28th to 30th for the 4th Annual Halloween Harvest Weekend. Decorate pumpkins, hop on the hayride, and celebrate both Halloween and the harvest.
Hosted by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, the 42nd Annual Harvest Fest is Sept. 28th to 30th. This year will include returning events such as the Classic Car Show and the Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, Sept. 29th, and will also feature children’s activities, a movie in the park, and Scarecrow Building!
Boyne City’s Harvest Festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 29th. The farm market booths will sell a variety of apples and other harvest items, including pumpkins, squash, apple butter, jam, honey, and cider. When you’re hungry, stop for a bite to eat in one of the many downtown restaurants.
With so many fun, family-friendly fall festivals, Shanty Creek Resorts is the perfect place to stay while celebrating the harvest in northern Michigan. Mark your calendar for the Bellaire Harvest Festival & Scarecrow Extravaganza on Saturday, Sept. 29th, and the 40th Annual Charlevoix Apple Festival from Oct. 12th to 14th. Throughout the fall season, visitors can experience fall color from a new perspective, from a chairlift ride to the top of the mountain or a four-hour fall color tour of one of Shanty Creek Resorts’ four championship golf courses.
Cheboygan’s Fall Fest is Oct. 5th to 7th. A community celebration of Cheboygan’s waterways, trails, and harvesting heritage is presented annually during the first weekend in October. Nearly 50 events are on tap for this year’s festival, with coordination among over 25 groups and organizations.
Visit Battle Creek with the whole family for fun harvest activities. The Pumpkin Festival is Saturday, Oct. 13th, and includes games, pony rides, pumpkin arts and crafts, food, and more. You can also stop by for hayrides every Saturday and Sunday from Sept. 29th to Oct. 28th to enjoy one of fall’s favorite traditions.
Prepare yourself for fall flavors and fright-filled nights with Haven Harvest in South Haven from Oct. 19th to 21st. Taste the flavors of fall as hayrides roll, pumpkins fly, headless horsemen ride, and haunted houses awaken. Experience a true South Haven harvest with apple orchards, bonfires, pumpkin carving, and delicious good-as-grandma’s pies.
The Michigan Maritime Museum is being transformed into a maze of terrifying thrills and chills that are not for the faint of heart on Oct. 19th and 20th. This annual event, now in its fourth year, occurs during South Haven’s annual Haven Harvest Festival weekend.
Virtue Cider in Fennville is hosting their 3rd Annual Apple Fest on Saturday, Oct. 20th. If you can’t make it for the event, or you would like an in-depth look at Virtue Cider’s operations, they host Harvest-Time Tours every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, where you can learn how they make cider using all Michigan-grown apples.
The Arts & Eats tour through Allegan and Barry Counties may not be until Oct. 20th and 21st, but you can still celebrate the harvest with them in September. Visit some of the tour’s stops this month for a harvest-centric meal, including one serving fresh carrots, green and yellow beans, red skin potatoes, and onions.
Farm fun & produce to bring home
Begin your journey to local farms and farmers markets with the help of Michigan Agritourism. This statewide resource helps keep family farms sustainable, support local economic growth, and provide rich and unique experiences for visitors to make lasting memories.
Corn mazes are a fan-favorite fall activity, and the corn maze at Robinette’s Apple Haus and Winery in Grand Rapids is now open. This year’s theme is Gummy Bears.
It’s time to decorate your porch and bring home fall flavors with the help of Lewis Farms & Petting Zoo in New Era. Take a ride on the apple express wagon to the orchards where you can pick apples yourself, or visit the pumpkin patch and pick out the perfect pumpkin to take home and carve. You can even purchase straw bales, corn stalks, and more to spruce up your front porch. Finish up your visit with a cup of apple cider and an apple cinnamon or pumpkin doughnut.
Twin Oaks Inn is located in downtown Saugatuck, hosting guests in a harvest wonderland. Many guests who stay in the fall visit Crane Orchards and Fenn Valley Vineyards in Fennville, located only 15 minutes away from the inn.
Since September is the beginning of the harvest months, there’s bound to be those looking for fall activities in Mecosta County. Some of the area’s local farmers markets provide plenty of harvest treats. This is where you can find farm-fresh produce which changes as the seasons do.
In addition to the farmers market, Holland has a new restaurant that takes advantage of the early fall harvest. Stop by for one of their unique recipes, or bring the harvest home and see what you can create with these fresh ingredients.
"If you can't tolerate critics, don't do anything new or interesting."
~Jeff Bezos
Food, glorious food!
Blue Spoon will again be at Kentwood’s End of Summer Food Truck Festival. (WKTV)
And there will be food trucks galore! The free-to-attend event will run from 11am to 10pm, on Saturday, Sept. 15 in the parking lot of the Kent District Library — Kentwood (Richard. L. Root) Branch. Throughout the day, there will be live music, a beer tent and a variety of local eats.
Ferrand Park got quite the facelift, and Wyoming residents are thrilled. The park features a number of new amenities such as a shelter, pathways into the park, architectural features that help to identify the park, and a new, expanded playground area.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport has launched a new app that features real-time flight departure and arrival information, updates on parking availability at the airport, and security wait times. Additionally, amenities such as food and beverage locations, kids play areas, nursing rooms, and the military welcome center are featured on the app.
As the fall color tour season begins to emerge, you’re invited to bring the family out to explore the back-country roads along the Lake Michigan shoreline stretching throughout Van Buren and Allegan Counties.
Nestled along a 30-mile stretch of Michigan’s “Fruit Belt” region lies a collection of orchards, farms, and vineyards known as Lakeshore Harvest Country. Taking full advantage of the “lake effect” climate delivered by the Great Lakes and Lake Michigan specifically, this shoreline area is rooted in agricultural and tourism heritage.
Visiting Lakeshore Harvest Country is a real family affair. In today’s fast-paced, technologically-focused world, it is more important than ever for families to spend quality time together reconnecting and making memories. There’s just something special about seeing kids visiting with the cows, goats, llamas and other animals; or enjoying a snack of fresh picked fruits or vegetables; or watching artists create beautiful pieces crafted from wood, clay, metals and other mediums. Fall also means corn mazes, trips to the pumpkin patch, wagon rides, haunted houses, and countless other family-friendly activities.
Now is the perfect time to stock your refrigerator, freezer and pantry for the upcoming cold-weather with locally-made jams and sauces, flavorfully blended spices, syrups, and honey and other culinary goodies. And, don’t forget locally-made cheeses, fresh-baked bread and pies, and award-winning craft beer, wine, and ciders. Freshly-picked fruits and vegetables are waiting to be canned or preserved for enjoyment throughout the coming months.
It’s also time to start thinking about autumn home décor—corn stalks, bales of hay, gourds, mums and more can dress up your porch, patio or hearth. And, don’t forget the pumpkins for carving as you prepare for Halloween.
Lakeshore Harvest Country publishes a brochure and map which identifies its members and provides additional information about the activities found at each. The map is available at any of the member locations, as well as at the Visitor Bureau offices in Saugatuck and South Haven and Welcome Centers around the state. It can also be downloaded online at LakeshoreHarvestCountry.com.
Lakeshore Harvest Country was launched with a grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture in 2006 and in 2009 the trail was awarded the “Community Vision” award by the Greater South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce.
The opening of High Five Co-op Brewery, with its storefront location at 3846 52nd St. SE in the city, is expected for sometime in 2019. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
The brewing of beer at High Five Co‐op Brewery, which hopes to become the City of Kentwood’s first member owned and managed brewery, took a huge step forward in August when it signed a lease for a location just west of East Paris in the center of the “Shoppes at 52nd Street”.
The co-op recently signed a lease for a location just west of East Paris in the center of the “Shoppes at 52nd Street”. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
The opening of the brewery, with its storefront location at 3846 52nd St. SE in the city, is expected for sometime in 2019.
“We still have to meet with the City of Kentwood for planning and approvals (scheduled for September),” Laura Barbrick, president High Five Co‐op Brewery, said recently to WKTV. “Once we get that, we will file for state and federal licenses. We’ve been told it can be a minimum of a 7 month process. We don’t plan to begin the buildout until some of these things are more of a sure thing. So we won’t be doing a ribbon cutting until hopefully sometime next year. In the meantime there will be lots of planning and paperwork.”
High Five announced the lease for their future brewery in August.
“Our members have been patiently waiting for this moment,” Barbrick said at the time in supplied information. “Our board of directors have been searching the real estate market in West Michigan for nearly two years. We believe this location offers a lot of great potential and is in a rapidly growing area. We are excited to bring our new cooperatively‐owned brewpub to Kentwood.”
According to Barbrick, the cooperative has more than 150 members and expects renewed interest in memberships now that a location has been secured. High Five member‐owners “share a passion for craft beer and a vision to introduce the cooperative brewing model to West Michigan,” she said.
The cooperative brewery is built on seven operating principles that include a focus on the community, cooperation with other cooperatives, education of its members, and democratic governance which allows all of its members to vote on the direction of the brewery, according to supplied information.
Cooperative member‐owners purchase a lifetime membership for a one‐time $150 fee.
While High Five pursues its local, state, and federal approvals, it will also focus on growing its membership and raising additional capital for the new brewpub, according to Barbrick.
Inspired by Black Star Co‐op Pub and Brewery in Austin, Texas. Black Star, the first co‐op brewpub in the United States, opened its doors in 2010, and since that time, more cooperatives have opened and several are in various stages of planning. High Five was born in 2011 when founder Dallas McCulloch took part in a 5×5 business competition and was awarded $5,000 in startup capital, according to supplied information.
According to the National Cooperative Business Association, more than 100 million people are members of cooperative businesses in the United States, ranging from agricultural co‐ops and credit unions to food, housing and worker co‐ops.
Downtown Market hosts ‘Cooking with Craft Beer’ class
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market will host a “Cooking with Craft Beer” class on Friday, Sept. 21, from 6-8:30 p.m.
“We’re lucky to live in the city with the best craft brews, so don’t just drink the good stuff — learn to cook with it too!” information on the class states. “This beer-inspired menu will include a refreshing seasonal salad with a pale ale vinaigrette, delicious brown ale-braised chicken, and rich chocolate stout cupcakes. Yes, beer in dessert!”
They had me at “beer”.
The cost for the age 21-and-older class is $90 per person. As you cook, beers selected to complement the meal will be available for purchase.
The Downtown Market is located at 435 Ionia Ave. SW. For more information on the class email classes@downtownmarketgr.com or call 616-805-5308.
BySuzanne Pish, Michigan State University Extension
There has been a lot of controversy about whether or not young children should begin to play football. As a mother, it is hard to watch your child be under a pile of other players, wondering if they are going to get up and listening to coaches yelling at them. However, there are some great lessons learned from playing football that go far beyond the hitting and yelling. These young children are learning life skills that they can use the rest of their lives.
The social aspect of sports might be what entices children to play in the first place. Youth sports participation lets children spend time with friends in a safe environment while practicing social skills that are likely to last a lifetime. Aside from bonding with peers, kids learn to solve conflicts effectively, reach common goals and learn to be more assertive, all while getting much needed physical activity. A child’s communication skills are improved while playing a sport, giving a child needed life skills.
2. Competitive skills
Although there is such a thing as being too competitive, it’s important for a child to understand the positive aspects of competition. Adults are surrounded by competition, from getting a job to moving up in the work force. When children learn the basics of competition early, they have a better chance of succeeding. Sports participation helps children cope with competition in a friendly environment. Working to achieve a goal or being part of a team can help kids gain healthy competitive skills that they can use for the rest of their lives.
3. Sportsmanship
Sportsmanlike behavior is a lesson that children obtain from playing sports. Children learn to positively handle both the winning and losing aspect of playing a sport. Good sportsmanship is a trait that carries over from childhood to adulthood. Athletes who focus on mastering personal improvement have a good chance later on becoming good citizens and hard workers. A child who learns to be a good sport can translate that skill to better cooperating with others and making decisions based on their own morals rather than being ego-oriented individuals who behave badly, according to Education World, an online resource for educators .
4. Leadership abilities
Obtaining leadership qualities that range from being a good character to respecting others and being task oriented can be accomplished in both team and individual sports. A solid support system, such as a strong parental involvement and effective coaching can help mold a child into being a leader now, and later in life.
The coaching staff for my son’s team told them in the huddle that giving 100 percent on the field will help them to give 100 percent in whatever else they do in life. Do these boys understand that concept at this young age? Maybe not, but having the discipline to play as a team day after day and to give all they can to their team will certainly pay off for them in the long run as adults.
"The person who says something is impossible should not interrupt the person who is doing it."
~Chinese Proverb
Good things come in threes
Three well-deserving organizations recently received grants from the GM Foundation: the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), and Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank. Read all about it here.
The dude abides (er, rides)
Kentwood resident and bicyclist-on-a-mission Ken Smith, after a brief stop at home for his anniversary and time with family, quietly headed off from downtown Grand Rapids this week as part of a 3,500-plus west coast-to-east coast trip to raise funds for his grandson, Jakob, and awareness of all persons with neurological damage. More here.
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Beam me up, Scotty
Well, maybe healthcare technology isn’t quite that advanced, but still…
Not only are physicians and other healthcare professionals becoming more accessible, but personal health information, billing, and care instructions have also become easier to find thanks to electronic health records and healthcare portals. Before electronic health records, or EHRs, patients had to request physical copies from their healthcare providers’ offices, an inconvenient process that meant that most people only received their records when they were absolutely required. Read all about it here.
Fun Fact:
A sneeze travels about
100 miles per hour.
We're not sure who clocked it or why. Maybe some things are best left unknown.
Local nurses were on a hike at Dead River Falls, in the U.P.’s Marquette, but their day hike became a case of being in the right place at the right time. (Supplied)
A group of emergency department nurses from the Grand Rapids area ran into a scary situation recently when a planned vacation to Marquette, Mich., turned into an emergency medical incident.
The day, Aug. 25, started off as any other: 10 nurses packed up the supplies they would need for the day and drove to Dead River Falls, in Marquette, for a hike. After getting their start, bystanders who were witness to an emergency situation a half-mile up the trail flagged the nurses down. Because of their emergency medical training, the nurses determined they were could possible help.
A young man who was visiting the falls with friends that day ended up with serious injuries because of a fall off one of the cliffs while peering over the water.
Rylee Kuiphoff and Nicole Schoenborn, two City of Grand Rapids residents who were part of the group of nurses, sat down with WKTV to talk about their story.
Kuiphoff recalled the incident as a challenge. With little to no resources that a standard emergency department nurse would usually have, making the best out of the situation is all they could do.
“Initially, it was hard for us because when you see the patient there’s a list of things at work that we go through …,” Kuiphoff said. “But when you’re in the wilderness you don’t have any of that.”
Schoenborn said the most important thing, to her, was keeping the young man calm. Holding him still, she made sure he was awake, stayed still, and was talking.
After the young man was stabilized, it was time for the group to assist local emergency medical providers in getting the boy out of the trail area. With the use of a backboard to transport the young man, the team brought him back to the mouth of the trail, a process that was not easily accomplished. Walking up hills, trudging through water, and navigating rocky terrain, the hike back up took about an hour.
“It was a lot of communication …,” Schoenborn said. “We couldn’t see where we were stepping so the fact that everyone was really great at communicating to get this boy and ourselves out safely was amazing.”
Once back back home, the nurses said they were thankful that they were there to help. But Kuiphoff and Schoenborn wanted to make it clear that they did what anyone else with their type of training would have done.
“We were just doing what we were trained to do” Kuiphoff said.
Although it was a tough situation, Kuiphoff doesn’t believe it was a just coincidence that they were on the trail at the right time.
“I fully believe God placed 9 ED nurses on that trail for a reason,” she said.
While the 2018 Metro Cruise was all about classic cars of the past, a scan of this year’s Cruise entries, especially the muscle cars and sports cars, makes evident that what was once futuristic in style and technology has always been part of what has made a car an eventual classic.
As part of its DreamWheels 2018 coverage of the Metro Cruise event, held Aug. 23-25, WKTV took a look at how technological advances in automobiles have always been, and continues to be, a desirable element of classics cars. We also looked at electric cars, delving a bit into the past but more so into the present and future.
It would not be far-fetched to say early 2000s cars such as the Dodge Viper, Ford Shelby GT and Corvette Z06 are all destined to be considered classic cars. And one thing they all had in common: evidence of the expansion of carbon fiber body parts from being a Formula 1 racing advantage to being a way to make street-legal muscle cars lighter in weight and, some would say, a bit cooler.
WKTV visited one local company — Walker’s Plasan Carbon Composites, Inc. — which makes carbon fiber body parts for a wide range if cars and talked with Adrienne Stevens, President & CEO of the company.
Then WKTV looked at the past, present and possible future of electric cars, ultimately asking the question: Is Tesla a classic-car must-have of the future? To find out, we asked a young — real young — car collector, Byron Center’s own Blake Dahlquist.
It is hard to believe it is time to start putting our gardens, lawns and flowers to rest for the winter. Michigan State University Extension offers these tips to make next year’s spring and summer vegetable and herb gardening easier and more fruitful.
As you pick and preserve your garden’s current crops, take time to prepare your soil for next year’s growing season. Remove all non-bearing, dead and diseased plants as you harvest your current crops. After frost has blackened the leaves on the remaining plants, pull them up and compost them. If they are diseased, take care not to add them to your compost pile, as many pests are able to overwinter and come back with a vengeance next spring.
Easy-to-do fall gardening chores for your vegetables
Remove all weeds and debris. This reduces homesteads for overwintering insects and diseases.
Till the soil. Fall is a great time to oxygenate the soil.
Tilling should be done once in both directions—a rough till is fine in the fall.
Tilling in the fall reduces the need for tilling wet, spring soil. Tilling wet soil is never recommended. Soil can be too sticky in early spring.
Adding organic matter, humus and manure in the fall allows time for it to become married to the soil. Organic matter is not immediately available for plants, so giving it time will have your plants functioning at peak performance earlier next spring.
Microorganisms are not as active in early spring; feeding them in the fall gives your garden a head start in the spring.
You may also choose to till in the organic matter.
A cover crop can be planted as an option to help improve your soil.
Winter wheat and cereal rye are good options for a Michigan garden cover crop.
If you have a very unruly area that has just gone to the weedy side, cover it with black plastic or cardboard and leave it until it’s time to plant in the spring to kill all sprouting seeds.
Easy-to-do fall gardening chores for your perennial herbs
Keeping your herb healthy during the growing season with well-drained soil, regular watering, fertilization and pruning is key to their winter survival.
Most herbs will also benefit from a good 2-to-4-inch mulch cover. Do not mulch heavily until after the first heavy frost—doing so before can actually weaken plants. Winter mulches help maintain soil temperatures and reduce frequent freezing and thawing.
It is a good time to cut dead wood from sage, oregano and thyme. Trim off dead flower heads.
Windbreaks or a covering of evergreen branches may also aid in the survival of many herbs, protecting them from harsh winds that tend to dry out less cold-tolerant herbs.
