Category Archives: Area Education

SMART goals make good resolutions all year

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By Laurie Rivetto, Michigan State University Extension

 

Many people use New Year’s resolutions to better themselves and their lives. Goals can also be set at any time in the year to work towards a life improvement. How many times have you set a New Year’s resolution or a life goal only to feel like you were not able to achieve it? To help you be more successful this year, start with a solid, goal-setting plan.

 

A study at Dominican University of California found that more than 70 percent of the participants who sent weekly updates to a friend reported successful goal achievement (completely accomplished their goal or were more than half way there), compared to 35 percent of those who kept their goals to themselves without writing them down. Writing down your goals and sharing them with someone else matters.

 

In addition, your written New Year’s resolution or life goal should be SMART to be successful. Michigan State University Extension can help you make those goals SMART, an acronym that stands for:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Attainable
  • Relevant
  • Time-bound

When creating a goal, there are a variety of questions you should ask yourself as they relate to specific parts of the acronym:

  • Specific. What exactly needs to be accomplished? Who else might be involved? Where will this take place? Why do I want to accomplish this?
  • Measurable. How will I know if I have succeeded? How many steps will it take to achieve this?
  • Attainable. Do I have the resources I need to make this happen? Is this goal neither too easy, nor too hard for me to accomplish? Will the steps I have planned help me reach my goal?
  • Relevant. Can I commit to this goal? Will I not be able to reach another goal or do something else I want to do because I am working towards this goal?
  • Time-bound. When is the deadline? When do I need to take action?

Take time to answer each of these questions as you create your goal. Using the SMART goal process can help you decide if the goal is a good fit for you as it is, or if you need to revise it to ensure success. It is often best to start with the time-bound, specific and measurable and then review them for being attainable and relevant.

 

An example of a goal that isn’t quite SMART would be, “I want to take a trip to Europe next October for my birthday.” The same goal, after being put through the SMART process by an individual, might look like this:

  • Specific. “I want to take a two-week trip to Ireland with my sister for my birthday in October of next year.”
  • Measurable. “I need to save $4,000 to cover flight costs, lodging, transportation and miscellaneous costs based on my research.”
  • Time-bound. “October is nine months away. That means I need to save $444 a month until October to have my $4,000 set aside to cover costs.”
  • Attainable. “$444 is a lot of money a month for me to set aside when I also am saving for a car.”
  • Relevant. “I am not sure I can commit to this goal. It might set me back from getting my car; perhaps I should plan for a different trip.”

In this example, having decided this goal is too much at this time, the process can be repeated; this time, the new goal is to take a trip to a Seattle, Washington, for five days and save $1,000. This allows the goal to be more likely to be achieved, aligned with the individual’s other goals and plans, and able to be measured and adjusted as needed along the way.

 

The National Endowment for Financial Education High School Financial Planning Program uses SMART to help young people make financial goals such as buying a smart phone, saving for spring break or getting a new pair of sneakers.

 

The SMART goal process works great with financial goals and it can also be used for any goal such as weight loss, reading a certain number of books a year, organizing a room or managing time effectively. By being SMART, you will be on your way to reaching your goal!

 

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

 

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

A leg up for caregivers

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This slideshow requires JavaScript.

 

By Eve Clayton, Spectrum Health Beat; photos by Chris Clark

 

Kathy Earle had her right hip replaced the first Monday in June. Two days later, she found herself recovering at home and ready to climb the 14 stairs to her second-floor bedroom.

 

With her daughter, Emily Adamczyk, behind her for support, Earle, 62, recited the rule she learned from the staff at Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital, where she had her surgery: “Up with your good leg first, down with your bad leg first.”

 

The mother and daughter had picked up that tip and many others when, a few weeks before her surgery, they attended a joint replacement class for patients and their caregivers.

 

Adamczyk heard this tip again just before discharge, at a new class offered for caregivers of hip and knee replacement patients.

Ready to go
Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat

The pre-discharge class packs a lot of information into a half hour, including cautions and reminders. The class made Adamczyk more comfortable with the idea of being her mom’s at-home caregiver.

 

“Seeing what she was capable of in the hospital was great, but then it was like, ‘Oh boy, now I have to support her by myself,’” she said. “To have a chance to sit down and hear it all again in class was really helpful.”

 

In addition to providing information about helping patients move around safely, the class—co-taught by a registered nurse and a physical or occupational therapist—covers several other topics, including:

  • Wound care
  • Pain medications and pain management
  • Preventing blood clots, infections, constipation and falls
  • When to seek medical help
  • Alternatives to the emergency department, such as orthopedic urgent care centers

The orthopedics team rolled the class out in March to give caregivers more confidence as they take their loved ones home, according to Liz Schulte, MSN, RN, nurse manager.

 

“Our patients are seeing shorter and shorter times in the hospital, and when they go home they still have a long road of recovery ahead,” Schulte said. “So to prepare that caregiver, who will be the one helping them with their medications, helping them ambulate—all of these hands-on things—it better sets them up for success.”

 

Consulting her class notes at home helped, too, Adamczyk said. When her mom’s leg began to swell, she checked a class handout to confirm that swelling is a normal part of the healing process.

 

“I think that if I didn’t know that, I would have been nervous,” she said.

 

Spectrum Health’s joint replacement program is one of the largest in the country and one of the first that The Joint Commission certified for total hip and total knee replacements.

 

“Part of the certification process is looking at your whole program and looking at what you can improve,” Schulte said, noting the program’s recent re-certification. The joint replacement discharge class is a step toward improved patient outcomes.

Freedom from pain

From Earle’s perspective, her outcome has been “amazing.” Just nine days after surgery—about a week ahead of schedule—she abandoned her walker and began using a cane to get around the house.

 

“Each day there’s something that gets a little easier. Each day it gets stronger,” said Earle, a retired elementary school teacher who lives outside Rockford, Michigan. “It’s amazing what the human body can do.”

 

Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat

Her right hip replacement has gone so well that she even plans to ask her surgeon, Thomas Malvitz, MD, about moving up the date of her eventual left hip replacement, she said. After dealing with arthritis pain for more than two years, she’s excited about the prospect of being free of pain.

 

“She loves to travel and has gone a lot of places with this sore hip, but it has slowed her down a lot,” Adamczyk said. “It was affecting her quality of life.”

 

Once Earle’s post-surgery driving restriction is lifted, one of her first trips this summer may well be to Lake Michigan.

 

“I definitely am looking forward to walking on a beach,” she said. “I think that would be an awesome thing.”

 

Experiencing knee or hip pain? Schedule an appointment with Spectrum Health Medical Group Orthopedics at 616.267.8860. Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital is a recipient of the Healthgrades Joint Replacement Excellence Award and is among the top 5 percent in the nation for joint replacement.

Developing family rules

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Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Kylie Rymanowicz, Michigan State University Extension

 

Setting family rules is the first step to establishing boundaries for your child’s behavior. Rules tell your children what you value, what is important to you and your family. When rules are enforced, it is an opportunity for children to practice making decisions and dealing with the consequences of their choices. Boundaries that you set will help guide your child’s behavior.

 

Michigan State University Extension has some tips to help set and enforce family rules.

 

Keep the rules simple. The more complicated a rule, the harder it is to remember. Keep your rules short and simple so it is easier for young children to learn and remember. Rules for young children should be very easy to understand and there should be as few rules as possible.

 

Make sure rules are enforceable. Rules or boundaries should be connected to consequences, or what will happen if the rule is broken. Set consequences that are fair and reasonable and give your child the opportunity to learn to make better choices in the future.

 

Enforce rules consistently. If a rule is only enforced some of the time, your child will notice and they will learn that the rule doesn’t need to be followed. Make sure you enforce rules consistently and as soon as possible. This helps build a cause-and-effect relationship for your child (if I do this, then this will happen). This will help them learn to make better choices in the future.

 

Remind the rule. Kids need lots of reminders about rules and boundaries. Post a picture chart for your family rules in the house where your child will be able to see them regularly. Remind your child of the rules often, and give the warnings so they have the opportunity to change their behavior before facing consequences.

 

Remember that rules are for everyone. If you set a rule for your family and you break it, you are sending a message to your child that you do not value that rule. It’s important to practice what you preach and impact upon your child that the rule is so important, even you will follow it.

 

Family rules can help calm the chaos and set limits that will help your child understand boundaries and learn to make good choices.

 

For more articles on child development, academic success, parenting and life skill development, please visit the Michigan State University Extension website.

 

To learn about the positive impact children and families experience due to MSU Extension programs, read our 2017 impact report. Additional impact reports, highlighting even more ways Michigan 4-H and MSU Extension positively impacted individuals and communities in 2017, can be downloaded from the Michigan 4-H website.

 

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

Enroll now for health insurance in 2019

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By Brenda Long, Michigan State University Extension

For more information contact Brenda Long.

 

Health insurance helps provide financial protection. It is for managing the risks of very high medical expenses for potential future health problems. Plan your choices during health insurance open enrollment for 2019. If you obtain health insurance from your employer, ask about the enrollment dates and options. The information below is for people buying health insurance on their own.

Changes for 2019 include the following:

1. Premiums have flattened out for 2019 Health Insurance Marketplace plans after several years of spikes, according to the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services. Consumers should find more affordable, more comprehensive coverage. In Michigan, nine companies will be competing for policy holders to purchase Qualified Health Plans in the Michigan Health Insurance Marketplace:

  • Blue Care Network
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of MI
  • McLaren Health Plan Community
  • Meridian Health Plan of MI, Inc
  • Molina Healthcare of MI
  • Oscar Insurance Company
  • Physicians Health Plan
  • Priority Health
  • Total Health Care USA

2. The repeal of the individual mandate requirement to pay for health insurance is still in effect in 2018 but will not be included in 2019. This means when you file federal income taxes for 2019, you will not pay a penalty for not having health insurance.

 

3. Short-term, limited-duration plans are allowable to cover an initial period of less than 12 months with renewal options, and up to 36 months total. This provides for new, more affordable options. These plans can provide coverage for people transitioning between jobs, students taking time off from school, and middle-class families without access to subsidized ACA plans. These plans offer lower premiums than comprehensive health insurance, but also cover less. They do not have to take people with pre-existing medical conditions. They may not cover maternity, mental health, prescription drugs and substance abuse treatment. Read the fine print if you are considering this coverage.

 

Not new but important to mention are Health Savings Accounts (HSA), which can be set up through your employer or by an individual. These tax-exempt accounts can be used to pay for eligible out-of-pocket health care expenses not covered by traditional health plans.  HSAs must be established with a high deductible plan so that the HSA pays for routine health expenses and the health plan for more significant costs. Individuals can go to many banks and credit unions in Michigan to set up an account.

 

Here are 5 things to get ready to enroll for health insurance:

  1. Know the dates of the Open Enrollment period. The Health Insurance Marketplace has a 45-day enrollment period from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, 2018. The Medicare open enrollment period is different from the Marketplace time frame, from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, 2018. If you qualify for the Healthy Michigan Plan, Medicaid or MiChild, you can enroll at any time of the year.
  2. Ask your employer if it offers health insurance as a benefit. Some employers make use of the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) for employees. If not, you may need to get coverage through the Marketplace, or directly from a health insurance agent or company.
  3. Make a list of questions before it is time to choose your health plan. Do you want to stay with your current doctor? Will the plan provide coverage when you are travelling? This will help you compare multiple plans. Have you received a notice from your current health plan about changes to its provider network, co-pays, co-insurance, or prescription drug coverage and what does this mean for you? Read the notice carefully.
  4. Gather your household income information. With the Marketplace, many people qualify for tax credits to save money based on family size and income. Find your most recent W-2, pay stubs or tax return.
  5. Set your budget. You need to figure out how much you can afford to spend on premiums each month. Think about your health care needs, how often you visit the doctor, the number and cost of prescriptions. If you expect frequent visits, prescriptions or medical services, you might want a plan that has higher monthly premiums but pays more medical costs when you use them, so you have fewer out-of-pocket costs. For more information about managing plans with high deductibles, see my February 21, 2017, news article.

This is also a good time to do a financial check-up. Be sure to check out Michigan State University Extension and MIMoneyHealth.org for great tips on many financial topics plus programs in the Events column.

 

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

Six tips when freezing meat – including storage chart

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Courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Jeannie Nichols, Michigan State University Extension

 

You found a great sale on meat and bought more than you can use within a day or two. You can preserve it by canning, drying or freezing. Freezing is by far the simplest method of preserving meat. Michigan State University Extension has some helpful tips when freezing meat.

  1. You can freeze fresh meat and poultry in its supermarket wrapping if you will use it in a month or two. The United States Department of Agriculture recommends that you add a second wrapping for long-term storage to maintain quality and prevent freezer burn. Overwrap the package of meat with airtight heavy-duty aluminum foil, freezer paper or place the package inside a freezer bag. While it is safe to freeze fresh meat or poultry in its supermarket wrapping, this type of wrap allows air to pass through, which can lead to freezer burn. Foods with freezer burn are safe to eat, but will be dry and may not taste good.
  2. Keep your freezer at 0º Fahrenheit or lower. Put no more food in your freezer than can get frozen in 24 hours.
  3. Spread out the bags of meat in your freezer when you are first freezing them. You can neatly stack and organize them in your freezer once they are completely frozen.
  4. Do not stuff any kind of meat or poultry before freezing it. Harmful bacteria can grow in the stuffing before it gets completely frozen and then it can once again grow when it is being thawed.
  5. Thaw all meats in the refrigerator for the very best quality. Cook the meat once it is thawed.
  6. Freeze meat in meal size portions. Label the package with the kind of meat, the amount in the package and the date it was frozen.

Freezing keeps food safe almost indefinitely, but the quality and nutritional value decreases over time. Recommended storage times from the United States Department of Health and Human Services are for quality only.

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

Sound mind: A matter of degrees?

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Earning a degree in your later years isn’t just a matter of career advancement or personal achievement—it’s another way to stay sharp. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Shawn Foucher, Spectrum Health Beat

 

Researchers have long held that a heart-healthy diet and an active mind are among your best defenses against dementia.

 

But evidence continues to mount that you should also strive for a life of learning.

 

Recent studies suggest that mental stimulation at any age—from teens to post-retirement—is apt to improve the odds of enjoying a sound, healthy mind well into your twilight.

 

JAMA Neurology recently published results from a Minnesota study that found people ages 70 and older could decrease their risk of developing mild cognitive impairment by engaging in activities such as books, crafts, computers, games and socializing.

 

Interestingly, crafts and computers were especially associated with a decreased risk, according to the study.

 

Perhaps more compelling, however, is a separate JAMA Internal Medicine study that found an increase in educational attainment when you’re young may lead to a healthier brain in later ages.

 

Helmed by professor Kenneth Langa, the study reinforces what other researchers have been noticing—an unexpected but encouraging decline in dementia rates among the aging population in the U.S.

 

Langa and his team uncovered the association between dementia and educational attainment.

 

They measured dementia rates in two groups, one with an average age of 75 in 2000, the other with an average age of 75 in 2012. They found the dementia rate at 11.6 percent in the first group, 8.8 percent in the second group.

 

While those in the first group had attained about 11.8 years of education, on average, those in the second group attained about 12.7 years—almost a full additional year.

 

Coincidentally, the increasing value Americans have placed on education is borne out in the historical data. Prior to World War II, about 38 percent of those ages 25 to 29 had completed high school. By 1960, more than 60 percent in this age group had completed high school.

 

In comparing earlier generations to subsequent ones, it may suggest a greater return than expected on education: brain health benefits.

 

The notion that education could promote longer-term brain health is certainly not lost on the legion of gerontologists and neurologists responsible for treating some of the 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, and millions more suffering from various forms of dementia.

 

“We know from other studies that education does appear to be a protective factor, so folks with more education are less likely to develop dementia,” said Maegan Hatfield-Eldred, PhD, a neuropsychologist with Spectrum Health.

 

“The idea is that education, learning new things, stimulates the parts of the brain that produce new cells and grow connections between cells,” Dr. Hatfield-Eldred said. “So people with more education have more brain matter that they can lose, and still maintain normal functioning.”

 

The implication here, of course, is that this brain stimulation and development occurs in youth and continues to benefit people into old age.

 

The takeaway: Brain health isn’t something to ruminate post-retirement.

 

It’s something parents should keep in mind for themselves and their children from the get-go, with consistent emphasis on education and intellectual development.

 

“It really emphasizes the importance of thinking about brain health over your lifespan,” Dr. Hatfield-Eldred said. “This isn’t something you should think about when you turn 70. It’s really a lifetime thing. The things you do over your lifespan impact whether you may develop dementia down the road.”

Ponder it

A question remains: What can you do now, as an adult, to increase the chances you’ll have a healthy brain into your 70s, 80s and beyond?

 

While age is the biggest determinant in the development of Alzheimer’s and forms of dementia, genetic factors also play a substantial role. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, although some medications can alleviate the symptoms.

 

“The No. 1 risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is your age,” said Iris Boettcher, MD, chief of geriatrics for Spectrum Health. “The older you get, the higher the risk.”

 

You can’t change your genes, but you can change your lifestyle.

 

Activities that require mental concentration are all apt to help with cognitive function, Dr. Boettcher said.

 

“The advice I give, even once the diagnosis of dementia is made, is we know that regular mental stimulation is helpful in reducing the progression of the disease,” she said.

 

Dr. Boettcher is especially keen on discussions and activities that encourage higher-level thinking.

 

“People say reading, and reading is OK, but it’s really discussing what you have read,” she said. “You can read things over and over again, but it’s not necessarily constructive brain stimulation.”

 

While that’s no call to run out and enroll in the physics track at your local university, it is a call to challenge yourself mentally.

 

“It’s not a cure-all,” Dr. Hatfield-Eldred said. “But in general, we know that people who stay (mentally) active have lower (dementia) rates. It may prolong the onset of dementia if you are someone who was going to develop dementia. Maybe you’ll get it later than you would, or maybe it will progress more slowly than it would have without those activities.”

 

Drs. Hatfield-Eldred and Boettcher also emphasize the importance of regular exercise—at least three times a week, about 20 to 30 minutes each time—and a heart-healthy diet such as the Mediterranean diet.

 

“It’s been shown in multiple studies: It reduces the progression of dementia and it’s healthy for the brain,” Dr. Boettcher said. “You don’t have to be a marathon runner or work out in a gym. It’s very simple.”

 

The take-home message from these studies: “There’s no one magic activity,” Dr. Hatfield-Eldred said.

 

Just eat right, exercise and study hard.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

The unbreakable link

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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!

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

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WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

Quote of the Day

"It occurred to me at one point it was like I had two diseases — one was Alzheimer's, and the other was knowing I had Alzheimer's."
                                                 - Terry Pratchett

 

What’s next in battling Alzheimer’s?

 

“Alzheimer’s Disease: A Look into the Future” is set for Monday, November 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the L. William Seidman Center, 50 Front Ave. SW, on Grand Valley’s Pew Grand Rapids Campus. The event is free and open to the public.  For the complete story, click here.

 

What’s new (soon) at Ford Airport?

 

Construction on the second phase of the Gateway Transformation Project begins today at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA), and will continue through Summer 2020. For the complete story, click here.

 

What’s the deal with ‘Strive for Five’?

 

The straightforward message behind “Strive for Less than 5”, the countywide campaign to reduce absences: The more school a child misses, the further they fall behind and the more at risk they are of eventually dropping out. For the complete story, click here.

 

Fun Fact:

5.0 million vs. 5.5 million

In fall 2018, about 1.4 million children are expected to attend public prekindergarten and 3.6 million are expected to attend public kindergarten. (Source) In contrast, An estimated 5.7 million Americans of all ages are living with Alzheimer's dementia in 2018. This number includes an estimated 5.5 million people age 65 and older and approximately 200,000 individuals under age 65 who have younger-onset Alzheimer's. (Source)

7 tips for managing stress

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Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only 36.9 percent of those suffering receive treatment. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Maura Hohman, HealthDay

 

A little bit of stress can motivate you, but too much might cause an anxiety disorder that can prevent you from living your life to the fullest.

 

If you feel anxious on a daily basis, try making changes to your lifestyle to manage anxiety on your own.

  1. Exercise regularly to release the body’s endorphins, natural feel-good chemicals. Set a goal of 30 minutes at least five days of the week.
  2. Be sure to get enough sleep, typically between 7 and 8 hours every night.
  3. During waking hours, take short breaks from whatever stresses you out. Meditation and listening to music are great ways to clear your head.
  4. Eat healthy and don’t skip meals.
  5. Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen anxiety and trigger panic attacks.
  6. If adjustments to your routine don’t lessen your anxiety, talk to your doctor, especially if anxiety or depression run in your family. You could have an anxiety disorder.
  7. Keep a symptom diary and be alert for the warning signs of an anxiety disorder.

Possible anxiety disorder symptoms include:

  • Constant worry.
  • Avoiding social situations.
  • Panic attacks.
  • Nightmares.

If you’re diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, stay positive. There are many treatments available, such as cognitive behavioral therapy to help you change your thought patterns. Also, there are other types of therapy, medication, and simple adjustments to your daily routine.

 

Most important is finding a therapist you’re comfortable working with and who’s experienced in treating anxiety disorders.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

School News Network: Helping young children the purpose of countywide millage request

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An estimated 45,000 children in Kent County are below age 5. Too many of them and their parents need help so they can be healthy and prepared for kindergarten, according to early childhood advocates. (Supplied)

By James Harger, School News Network

 

An estimated 45,000 children in Kent County are below age 5. Too many of them and their parents need help so they can be healthy and prepared for kindergarten, according to early childhood advocates who are backing a millage proposal on the Nov. 6 ballot.

 

They are asking Kent County voters to approve a 0.25 mill property tax levy that would provide an estimated $5.7 million a year to agencies and programs that support early childhood development programs. The millage would cost the average Kent County homeowner about $23 a year, or $1.90 a month.

 

The millage request was placed on the ballot this summer by the Kent County Board of Commissioners on a 13-5 vote. The request was made by First Steps Kent, a coalition of local foundations, community leaders and United Way agencies that support early childhood programs.

 

“We are reaching only a fraction of these children,” said Karen Lezan, program coordinator for Bright Beginnings, a Kent ISD program that helps parents prepare their children for school success. Although Kent County offers great services for early childhood development, they lack the funding to reach all of the children who could benefit, she said.

 

Bright Beginnings, an affiliate of the national “Parents as Teachers” initiative, provides parents with tools to encourage language, intellectual, physical and social and emotional growth. Their program was only able to see 532 children last year, Lezan said.

 

“Investing in early childhood pays off not only for children and their families, but for the entire community,” according to a 2017 “gap analysis” report that inspired the millage request. The study concluded 20,500 children under age 5 in Kent County are “economically disadvantaged.”

 

“Every child in Kent County deserves to be healthy and ready to learn by kindergarten, and this proposal will help make sure children under age 5 receive vital early childhood and health care services,” said Annemarie Valdez, president/CEO of First Steps Kent. “Working together, we can make sure all Kent County children have brighter futures and the opportunity to succeed.”

 

If the millage request is passed, the money would be passed along to successful programs selected by a board that is appointed by the county board. The millage request was patterned after the Kent Senior Millage, which provides funding for programs that benefit senior citizens in Kent County.

 

Taxpayer dollars raised by the millage would go through an independent financial audit every year to ensure taxpayer funds are spent wisely, according to its sponsors. This audit would evaluate the effectiveness of the funded programs to ensure transparency and accountability, sponsors said.

 

Self-care for parents and caregivers

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By Kylie Rymanowicz, Michigan State University Extension

 

Raising young children can be stressful and from time to time it can take its toll on parents and other caregivers. Self-care is a crucial way to ensure adults caring for young children are prepared to invest the time and energy they need to be the best caregivers they can be. If you aren’t taking care of yourself, you may not have much left to give your children.

 

Michigan State University Extension has some suggestions for making sure parents and caregivers take the time for self-care.

 

Make sure your basic needs are met. In the hustle of trying to take care of young children, the needs of parents and caregivers often get overlooked. Think about the energy you invest in making sure your child’s needs are met. You make sure they get enough to drink and eat, provide enough time for them to get the restful sleep they need as well as the exercise and time to play—do you do the same for yourself?

 

Make it a routine. Just like you develop routines for your child, make self-care part of your daily routine. Come up with simple routines you can do to help you relax and unwind and take care of yourself. Maybe it’s taking a quick walk by yourself a few days a week or making time to bake if that’s a hobby you enjoy.

 

Start small. Big changes can seem intimidating, so don’t think of increasing your self-care as something big you have to do overnight. Break up the task into small pieces and find something small to start with, like challenging yourself to drinking less caffeine to help you sleep better at night. Try writing down your goals and keeping track of your efforts—this can help motivate you to keep going and is a great way to see your progress. Once you have incorporated that change, try making another small change.

 

Model self-care for your child. Let your child know what you’re doing and why self-care is so important. You can tell them, “This is Daddy’s time to himself. When I go for a walk alone it gives me time to think and helps me feel calm and relaxed.” Children learn from watching us and when we show them we value self-care, they learn to value it too.

 

Investing in your own well-being is a way to invest in your child’s well-being. Take the time to nurture yourself so you have the energy and motivation to nurture your child.

 

For more articles on child development, academic success, parenting and life skill development, please visit the Michigan State University Extension website.

 

To learn about the positive impact children and families experience due to MSU Extension programs, read our 2017 impact report. Additional impact reports, highlighting even more ways Michigan 4-H and MSU Extension positively impacted individuals and communities in 2017, can be downloaded from the Michigan 4-H website.

 

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

How to fight fairly

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Photo courtesy of MSU Extension

By Terry Clark-Jones, Michigan State University Extension 

Is there a way to fight fairly? Yes, there is! Resolving conflicts with positive communication can bring people closer together and make relationships stronger. Below is one way you can begin to learn how to deal with conflict fairly, as well as teach those close to you how to fight fair. This works best in close relationships, such as those involving parents, partners, spouses, children, other family members or roommates. Begin by setting some time to explain conflict resolution to everyone in the household. Each person needs to be willing to follow the steps and a chance to practice.

  • Start with an agreement –Agree that conflicts exist in order to reach common ground at the end of the disagreement. Therefore, trust, love, respect, caring and kindness are key elements in every disagreement.
  • Stop and think — The next time you find yourself arguing with someone close to you, stop and think about your anger threshold, that point at which you know you are losing it. This is the point at which you can most effectively make changes. At lower levels of frustration, we are all capable of some self-control.
  • Code word — Choose a code word for anger thresholds. All household members must agree to respect the code word. You can call the code word yourself, if your own anger has reached your threshold or somebody else can call the code word, if they see anger rising in you or in someone else. Give everyone a chance to practice using the code word. For example, “I am calling a time out”.
  • Calm down — When someone calls the code, everyone must stop talking and moving for one minute. During that one minute, everyone should try to relax physically and think calming thoughts. Be a model of calm.
  • Come back and try again — Once everyone is calm, discuss the problem using “I statements”. At the end of one minute, someone can ask, “Are we calm enough to talk?” If everyone answers “yes,” you can start to work on a solution together. You may decide that more time is needed to calm down. If that is the case, each person needs to go to a separate place for some quiet time.
  • Be specific — Individuals need to be specific about what is bothering you. Accept statements and try to understand them for what they mean.
  • Keep the issue in the present — Do not bring up previous incidences, previous fights, actions, inactions or behavior which have nothing to do with the topic of the current fight. No one can fix an always or never situation such as, “you have always been stubborn” or “you never listen to me.”
  • Use respectful language — No name calling, swearing, insults, threats or intimidation. This creates an atmosphere of distrust, more anger and vulnerability.
  • Use calm voice — No raising your voice and dominating the conversation. Do not attempt to control by out-shouting or making more noise to drive home a point.
  • Name it to tame it — Always acknowledge the other’s basic feelings. For example, “I understand you are feeling frustrated right now, and I am glad you shared that.”

In the end of a fight or conflict, the ultimate goals is for individuals involved to come away feeling respected, understood and committed to change some behavior that may be irritating or difficult for another to accept. Compromise is always a win-win resolution to conflict.

With some or all of these guidelines in place, conflicts will become less destructive and with more constructive expression of anger.

Michigan State University Extension offers RELAX: Alternative to Anger throughout the state as well as other great education programming for parents, caregivers and adults working with teens. Go to http://msue.anr.msu.edu for more information.

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

Hunters, pack your rubber gloves to prevent the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease

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Deer with Chronic Wasting Disease (file photo)

By Jeannine Schweihofer, Michigan State University Extension, Tina Conklin, MSU Product Center  

 

Since 2015, Chronic wasting disease (CWD) has been found in deer in several of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula counties including Clinton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, and Montcalm, as well as most recently in October 2018 in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Dickenson county. Deer hunters should be aware of how easily CWD can be transferred to in cervids such as deer, elk or moose.

 

CWD is a neurological disease that affects cervid animals. It can be transmitted through direct animal to animal contact or contact with saliva, urine, feces, blood, and/or certain carcass parts such as brain tissue and spinal cord of an infected animal.

 

Hunters need to be aware that the disease can also be spread via infected plants and soil. Prions, which are single proteins that cause the infections, are not easily killed by traditional strategies such as heat. Research from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston has shown prions have been able to bind to the roots and leaves of wheat grass plants when incubated with contaminated material, even in highly diluted amounts. They also found that plants grown in infected soil can transport the deadly prions. Hamsters fed the contaminated plants contracted CWD in the research project.

 

Although current research has found no direct link from CWD to variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend not consuming venison from infected deer. Michigan State University Extension highly recommends that venison from a positively infected CWD deer not be consumed. When in doubt, do not consume the venison and properly dispose of the entire carcass. This brief background is meant to emphasize that CWD is a serious emerging disease in Michigan and hunters can take steps to prevent the spread of it.

 

Testing for Chronic Wasting Disease (file photo)

Michigan State University Extension has a free bulletin that explains how to field dress, butcher, and prepare venison. Here is a quick checklist of additional gear to pack when hunting:

  • Several pairs of tight-fitting, disposable gloves — these not only can protect hunters from disease but also assist in keeping the deer carcass clean during the dressing process.
  • Clean, sharp knife to make cuts and split carcass. Use separate knives from your household knives.
  • Pre-moistened wipes and/or container of clean water to maintain sanitation of knife and saw.
  • Strings about six to eight inches long to tie off the anus and assist in other dressing procedures.
  • Large resealable food grade plastic bag to place the heart and/or liver.
  • Clean, dry towels or paper towels to dry the carcass with after washing.
  • Rope to tie legs apart or drag deer.
  • Kill tag attached to a string.
  • Multiple non-porous disposable trash bags if hunting in the CWD core management zones to dispose of all carcass parts, including guts, and remove them from the environment.

All deer harvested in the Michigan CWD Core Area (Ionia, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties) and Management Zone (Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Hillsdale, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties), cannot be moved out of those areas unless:

  • It is deboned meat, quarters or other parts of a cervid that do not have any part of the spinal column or head attached, antlers, antlers attached to a skull cap cleaned of all brain and muscle tissue, hides, upper canine teeth, or a finished taxidermist mount; or
  • The head is submitted at a designated DNR drop off locations within 24 hours after killing the deer. Drop-off locations include DNR check points, drop boxes and some venison processors.

Carcasses can be moved into the CWD Core Area from a CWD Management Zone county with no restrictions. Hunters may not take a deer from the CWD Core Area into the CWD Management Zone for processing unless the conditions above are met.

 

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

 

East Kentwood narrowly tops Brighton, moves on to Saline for second-round playoff game

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By Micah Cho, WKTV Sports Intern

ken@wktv.org

 

East Kentwood, now 9-1, is traveling to Saline for the second round of the Division 1 state football playoffs with a narrow victory over Brighton last Saturday.

 

The Falcons were able to put 426 yards on the offensive stat sheet. A big contributor to the total yardage is senior wide receiver Stephan Bracey.

 

“We didn’t really click in the first half,” said Bracey. “We just thought about the bigger prize and executed the best we could.”

 

And clicked they did. With a juggled pass from quarterback Kyle Dent, Bracey ran for 81 yards in the second quarter which helped contribute to his 108 receiving yards for the game.

 

Trailing most of the first half, the Falcons were able to tie the game late in the second quarter, 28-28. That’s when East Kentwood head coach Anthony Kimbrough was able to readjust his game plan.

 

East Kentwood head coach Anthony Kimbrough. (WKTV)

“They showed us some things we hadn’t seen in the (defensive) secondary,” said Kimbrough of Brighton’s passing attack.

 

With Brighton trailing 31-28 with 20 seconds left on the clock, a 41-yard field goal from Brighton could have tied the game up and sent it into over time. But after three consecutive timeouts, Brighton missed a field goal that would have extended play.

 

“I was just praying that he missed,” said Kimbrough. “It was a great battle on both sides. You hate for someone to come out as a loser but were fortunate to move on. … But give Brighton credit. They’re a well-coached football team.”

 

However, at the end of the game, Kimbrough did have some tough love for his players. Falcon quarterback Dent threw for 188 yards. but with three interceptions, and Bracey was a total of -16 yards rushing.

 

“We can’t play the way we played today and beat Saline, we just can’t,” said Kimbrough. “We have to have our best. We have to play like the team we’ve been all year.”

 

MaxPreps, a CBS affiliated website dedicated to high school sports, has East Kentwood football ranked 7th in Michigan with Saline behind at 18th.

 

Just like Brighton, the Falcons have never faced Saline. With an unfamiliar opponent, anything can happen. But for now, Bracey and his teammates are thankful.

 

“We’re just truly blessed for what happened,” said Bracey.

 

East Kentwood will be on the road Saturday facing the Saline Hornets, a team that also went 8-1 in the regular season. Saline beat Kalamazoo Central last weekend.

 

You can check out the MaxPreps state rankings here.

 

Got that foggy feelin’?

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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.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Ferris State wins $1.2m grant for low-income STEM scholarship program

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Dr. Kristi Haik (photo supplied)

By Craig Clark, Clark Communications

 

Ferris State University has received a $1.2 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to establish Project S3OAR, a 4-year program that seeks to recruit, retain and graduate low-income, academically talented students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines.

 

Starting in fall 2019, Ferris State University will be able to provide up to $10,000 in scholarships for low-income STEM degree students. The grant aims to help boost STEM degrees in order to accommodate local and national demand in science, technology, engineering and math industries. FSU officials are available for interviews on the topic.

 

Project S3OAR, short for Sustainable, Scalable Scholarships, Opportunities, Achievements and Results (pronounced SOAR-three), is a partnership with Northern Kentucky University (NKU) and builds upon the lessons NKU learned from previous successful STEM grants awarded by the NSF.  The total amount awarded to both universities for this collaborative project is $2.3 million.

 

Starting in fall 2019, both universities will enroll 36 students each year for four years. With the help of the grant, 288 scholars will receive up to $10,000 in scholarship funding toward their degree.

 

S3OAR Scholars will participate in an orientation, a freshman seminar, a learning community, entrepreneurship education and a variety of co-curricular and enrichment opportunities, in addition to being assigned a mentor.

 

Dr. Hengli Jiao (photo supplied)

All S3OAR Scholars will also have access to an extensive array of support services available to all STEM students at their university.

 

Dr. Hengli Jiao, Ph.D., mathematics professor at Ferris, is the principal investigator. Dr. Kristi Haik, Ph.D., dean of Ferris’ College of Arts and Sciences, and Brent Williams, a Ferris State welding engineering technology associate professor, serve as a co-principal investigators. Dr. Haik formerly worked at NKU and was instrumental in developing the original program.

 

“Ferris State University is thrilled to be awarded this NSF grant alongside our counterparts at Northern Kentucky,” said Dr. Haik. “There is a national need for skilled, technically-trained employees, so we are eager to help this underserved population of students find success in these fields.”

 

Both Michigan and Kentucky are below the national average of persons ages 25 and over with at least a baccalaureate degree (27.4 percent for Michigan and 22.7 percent for Kentucky; 30.3 percent nationally). Conversely, the regions served by the universities rank in the top 20 for regions with the most professional opportunities for STEM graduates.

 

This news should be well received by West Michigan employers who are looking for STEM graduates. Both universities have already engaged with employers to provide job shadow experiences for the S3OAR Scholars.

 

“There are more than 100 employers who regularly work with Ferris and Northern Kentucky students in co-op, internship and shadowing situations,” said Dr. Jiao. “Many employers have already given verbal commitment to provide job shadowing opportunities, but we are always looking for more, so of all the students can benefit from the experience.”

 

Brent Williams (photo supplied)

Interested employers can contact the Ferris State University College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Office for more information.

 

Project S3OAR Objectives 

  1. Increase the STEM enrollment of low-income, academically-talented undergraduates, particularly those from underrepresented groups in STEM, by 10 percent.
  2. Achieve a 90 percent retention rate during the transition from first to second year.
  3. Increase the retention and graduation rates of S3OAR Scholars compared to similar populations in both the STEM disciplines and the university.
  4. Document the program’s sustainability and scalability.
  5. Determine the effectiveness of job shadowing STEM professionals on the first- to second-year retention rate of S3OAR Scholars.

Severe stress may send immune system into overdrive

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Stress disorders are tied to a 36 percent greater risk of developing 41 autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease and celiac disease. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Steven Reinberg, HealthDay

 

Trauma or intense stress may up your odds of developing an autoimmune disease, a new study suggests.

 

Comparing more than 106,000 people who had stress disorders with more than 1 million people without them, researchers found that stress was tied to a 36 percent greater risk of developing 41 autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease and celiac disease.

 

“Patients suffering from severe emotional reactions after trauma or other life stressors should seek medical treatment due to the risk of chronicity of these symptoms and thereby further health decline, such as the increased risk of autoimmune disease,” said lead researcher Dr. Huan Song, from the University of Iceland in Reykjavik.

 

The body’s immune system protects you from disease and infection. But autoimmune diseases turn the body’s natural protection against itself by attacking healthy cells.

 

In comparing people who had stress disorders with more than 1 million people without them, researchers found that stress was tied to a 36 percent greater risk of developing 41 autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease and celiac disease. It’s not clear what causes autoimmune diseases, but they tend to run in families. Women, particularly black, Hispanic and Native-American women, have a higher risk for some autoimmune diseases, the researchers said.

 

Song added that treating stress-related disorders may help reduce the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.

 

“There are now several treatments, both medications and cognitive behavioral approaches, with documented effectiveness,” she said.

 

For example, treating patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may help lower the risk for autoimmune disease, especially when taken in the first year after diagnosis, Song said.

 

But she cautioned that because this is an observational study, it’s not possible to prove stress causes autoimmune diseases, only that the two are linked.

 

In the study, Song’s team looked at patients in Sweden diagnosed with stress disorders such as PTSD, acute stress reaction, adjustment disorder and other stress reactions from 1981 to 2013. The researchers compared these individuals with siblings and people in the general population not suffering from a stress disorder.

 

The effects of severe stress have been associated with a variety of health problems, one PTSD expert said.

 

“Many studies have linked stress conditions as well as adverse childhood events, such as trauma and neglect, to future medical problems, including immune problems,” said Mayer Bellehsen. He directs the Unified Behavioral Health Center for Military Veterans and Their Families at Northwell Health in Bay Shore, N.Y.

 

“It is also notable that when people received effective treatment, their risk was lessened,” he added.

 

Although it isn’t known why stress can increase the chances of developing an autoimmune disease, Bellehsen suggested several possible explanations.

 

These include the impact of stress on lifestyle—for example, getting less sleep or increased drug or alcohol use. Stress might also directly affect the immune system, he said.

 

“Regardless of cause, this study adds to the evidence of the link between stress conditions and physical well-being, warranting further attention to the reduction of trauma and other causes of stress conditions, as well as improving treatment of these conditions,” Bellehsen said.

 

The report was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Have questions about your health or autoimmune diseases? Contact the Spectrum Health Neurology team or the Spectrum Health Allergy/Immunology team for more information or to make an appointment.

 

 

Is stress or PTSD so common in your life that it feels normal? Do you experience stress or PTSD without even realizing it? For additional information, call 616.447.5820 or schedule an appointment with the Spectrum Health Medical Group Psychiatry & Behavioral Medicine Program today.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Tips for making a memorable and healthy school lunch

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Kids are more likely to eat lunches that they pack, or help pack. (Courtesy Michigan State University Extension)

By Sarah Eichberger, Leah Bennett, Michigan State University Extension

 

Healthy students are better learners. As a parent or caregiver, you can help your child make smarter decisions by providing them with a colorful and healthy school lunch that will fuel their body and brain. When children skip lunch or consume a low-nutrient lunch, they may have problems concentrating in class and lack energy. Consider the following suggestions when planning your next packed lunch:

  1. Involve your child. Ask your child to help with planning and packaging of lunches. Not only is this an opportunity for you to discuss healthy food options, but you can help include nutritious foods that will appeal to your child. Kids are more likely to eat lunches that they pack, or help pack. Make a packed lunch a positive experience for your child by incorporating colorful packaging, leaving little notes in their lunch, and allowing your child to pick out their own lunch box.
  1. Seek balance and color. Create a balanced lunch that is nutrient-rich and includes a variety of foods from all food groups: grain, dairy, protein, fruit and vegetables. Reference the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) MyPlate to find more information on recommended foods and information on appropriate serving sizes for your child.
  1. Stay away from pre-packaged lunches. Although they are appealing due to the convenience factor, they are relatively more expensive than packing a lunch, lower in nutritional value, include processed ingredients and typically are higher in sodium, fat and calories. If this style of lunch appeals to your child, be creative and use healthier ingredients to create your own look-a-like lunch by buying plastic containers that have compartments where you can divide different foods. Come up with fun options with your child that will allow them to assemble their own food and give ownership over their meal without the added sodium, fat or sugar.
  1. Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot. Keep hot foods hot in a thermos or cold foods cold in an insulated lunch box with an ice pack. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service has a great tip sheet on keeping lunches safe. The transition from class to lunch may not allow for your child to have easy access to wash their hands. Pack wipes or hand sanitizer in their lunch box to help remind your child to wash their hands before eating.

Healthy eating is about what works for you. As a parent you can help implement small changes to build healthier eating styles with your child as the new school year is beginning. Michigan State University Extension  encourages small changes that work for your lifestyle such as allowing your child to pack their own lunch with healthy items that appeal to them.

 

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

Tackling Alzheimer’s disease

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By Diana Bitner, Spectrum Health Beat

 

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia—a condition that causes sufferers to forget short-term events and names. It also causes changes in behavior.

When talking about Alzheimer’s, it’s important to look at the risk factors:
  • Age—This is the strongest risk factor, with most people being diagnosed after age 65.
  • Genetics—There are genetic links associated with the disease, meaning it can run in families.
  • Environment—The most studied environmental factors include aluminum, zinc, food-borne poisons, and viruses, but there has been no clear evidence of cause and effect.
  • Related medical conditions—These include high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

It’s also important to note that having many family members with Alzheimer’s does increase an individual’s risk, but it’s not necessarily tied to genes per se. Instead, it can be tied to a genetic mutation or other medical conditions (such as diabetes and obesity) that may run in the family.

 

As doctors, we are learning more and more about how diabetes, heart disease, obesity and dementia are all tied together.

 

These medical conditions all involve blood vessels—specifically how healthy or unhealthy the vessels are.

 

A healthy blood vessel has a smooth inside lining, flexible walls and no plaque build-up. In contrast, an unhealthy blood vessel has a sticky lining, stiff walls and plaque build-up, possibly even buried in the vessel wall. This can result in decreased blood flow to important cells in brain tissue, impacting function and clearance of certain proteins.

 

This build-up is associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

 

We also know that Alzheimer’s disease is associated with certain acquired risk factors—especially when they start in midlife. The greatest risk factors include smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Taking control of your future self

What’s the bottom line? Midlife is the time to consider life goals and make important choices.

 

When I talk about Alzheimer’s and risk factors, I think about a patient of mine I’ll call Tania who came into the menopause clinic with some serious concerns.

 

Tania, 53, complained of forgetting things, feeling anxious, having night sweats and simply not feeling like herself. She was worried she had dementia—and for good reason.

 

Tania’s grandmother moved from Mexico to live with Tania’s family when Tania was 12. By the time Tania entered high school, her grandmother suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. Concerned she had the same thing, Tania needed answers.

 

We began by talking about her current stage in life—early perimenopause. This was clear because of her irregular periods, and symptoms of hot flashes and mood changes around the time of her period. Next, we went over her medical history, which included diabetes during pregnancy and lifelong issues with mild obesity.

 

Tania’s family history revealed some real concerns: Her mom, aunts and grandmother suffered from diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity; and her father had high blood pressure. When I took Tania’s vitals that day, her blood pressure was 150/75 and her BMI was 31. Both of those numbers were too high.

 

After gathering this information, I asked Tania what she wanted, and she said she wanted to be healthy—without diabetes or high blood pressure. She also wanted to maintain a healthy weight, be active, and not have to take all the meds her family did. And, most importantly, Tania did not want to get Alzheimer’s disease.

 

When I explained to her that diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity in midlife were all significant risk factors for Alzheimer’s, she wanted to know what she needed to do. We ran her labs, and the results showed she had pre-diabetes and mildly elevated cholesterol.

 

We then put together a plan. And our plan paid off.

 

After three months, Tania walked for 45 minutes every day and had changed her diet. She had lost 8 pounds and, even better, her blood pressure was down to 140/70 and her blood sugar was lower—almost in the normal range. Her periods were regular again and she slept better.

 

Tania felt great and addressed her health issues in time to meet her goals and make a difference.

Worried about your health or brain function? Make an appointment to specifically discuss your health concerns with your doctor. Need help choosing your physician? No worries. Call Spectrum Health at 877.362.8362 day or night to receive assistance and advice about selecting a physician who is right for you.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

The sitting epidemic

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

By Kim Delafuente, Spectrum Health Beat

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

That’s right, sitting.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

So how did we get here?

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Sitting has, by all measures, become the norm.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Maybe not.

 

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

 

Add small movements into your day.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Is sitting the new smoking?

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Diabetes and your mouth

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

 

Q: Does diabetes really affect my teeth?

 

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

 

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

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

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

Godwin Heights football joins HQ to help youth facing housing crisis

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Non-Profits, Sports, Upcoming Events,
HQ is a drop-in center for youth ages 14 to 24 who are experiencing housing crisis. (Supplied/HQ)

By Godwin Heights Football and HQ

 

As a special feature of Friday night’s football game at Godwin Heights High School, the Night to End Youth Homelessness, Godwin Heights will admit attendees to the game for a donation of vital items for youth facing housing crisis.

 

On Oct. 19, when Godwin Heights host Lee, the two teams will be facing off with more than football on their mind. They will also be supporting local youth who are struggling to find safe and stable housing.

 

Staff and students at Godwin Heights saw that there are youth in Wyoming, and across Kent County, that are struggling with safe and stable housing, including at their own school.  This is an opportunity for the team and the community to step up and make a difference.

 

You can gain entry to the game with a donation of any of the following items:  liquid body soap, natural/urban hair products, deodorant, boxes of cereal, men’s and women’s underwear, packages of socks, white undershirts, toothpaste/toothbrush, winter hats, gloves/mittens, scarves.

 

“At Godwin Heights Public Schools, we have a number of students and families currently experiencing homelessness. We are excited about the opportunity to partner with HQ to help raise awareness and bring additional resources to this community issue,” according to a spokesperson for the school.

 

Godwin Heights High School currently has over 650 students and strives to build a legacy by building strong relationships with parents, students, staff and community partners.

 

HQ is a drop-in center for youth ages 14 to 24 who are experiencing housing crisis — staying in a shelter, a car, a tent, with friends or in a home environment that no longer feels safe. For each of these youth, access to resources, safety, and support from caring adults is no longer a given. This is where HQ comes in.

 

HQ exists to help young people find a place to rest, build connections, and receive support through relationship and professional skill building. We are a transformative space where everyone is welcome and diversity is celebrated. Youth are the experts of their own lives, and are encouraged and supported, with no strings attached, as they realize and achieve their goals and dreams.

 

For more information on HQ, please visit www.hqgr.org. To learn more about Godwin Heights high school, visit https://www.godwinschools.org/ .

 

Knowing trees

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

By Bill Cook, Michigan State University Extension 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Get your groove back

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Health, How-To's, Senior Living, , , , ,
Don’t allow sexual issues sideline you from the pleasures of life. (For Spectrum Health Beat)

By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum Health Beat

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Increase youth employability through teamwork skills

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Photo courtesy Michigan State University Extension

By Sara Keinath, Michigan State University Extension

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

Tips for researching car insurance

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Photo courtesy of Michigan State University Extension

By Laurie Rivetto, Michigan State University Extension

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

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By WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

Quote of the Day

"In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. And, if they don't have the first, the other two will kill you."
  
                                                  ~ Warren Buffet

From California to Kentwood — new company, new jobs move in

 

 

The Right Place, Inc., in collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the City of Kentwood, announced that Arcanum Alloys will be relocating from Silicon Valley to the City of Kentwood.  This will result in the creation of 25 new high-tech jobs and a capital investment of $693,000.

 

The company produces 20-ton coils for some of the world’s most well-known manufacturing companies. Arcanum Alloys chose West Michigan over other competing locations to be closer to its production partner, suppliers and manufacturing customers. This location will function as both a new headquarters and R&D center. The company will be locating at 4460 44th St. SE, Kentwood. Read more here.

 

Kent ISD names new director of Special Ed program

 

Paul Dymowski was enthusiastic when asked about being chosen as director of the center-based Special Education program that is transferring to Kent ISD from Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS). “It’s a really exciting opportunity to build off the work Grand Rapids has already done,” he said after he was named to the new job on Wednesday, Oct. 3.

 

Dymowski, who currently serves as transition coordinator, part of the Special Education Department at Kent ISD, was chosen from a field of 28 applicants, according to Superintendent Ron Caniff, who announced the appointment. Read more here.

.

Local fast food restaurant goes all high-tech

 

The McDonald’s restaurant at 6095 Kalamazoo Ave. SE in Gaines Township is inviting guests to experience McDonald’s in a new way with a greater level of choice, engagement and service.

 

The restaurant, which is located near East Kentwood High School and the Kalamazoo Avenue exit off of M-6, recently underwent extensive renovations and upgrades both inside and outside.  These renovations include new self-order kiosks, table service, updated ways to pay and a redesigned seating area. Read about it here.

 

 

Fun Fact:

After Subway (about 43,000) and McDonalds (37,000), Starbucks has the third most locations in America (29,000).

That is a lot of caffeine. Source.

Kelloggsville in playoff mode as Rockets face critical Friday night game

3-bottom, Area Education, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Local Faces, Sports, WKTV Featured sports

 

By Micah Cho, WKTV Sports Intern

ken@wktv.org

 

It’s now or never for the Kelloggsville football team.

 

Rockets Head Coach Don Galster. (WKTV)

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.

 

Galster told the WKTV Journal how important these next few weeks leading up to the playoffs are.

 

“Our destiny is in our hands and we just have to rise to the occasion,” Galster said prior to the Godwin Heights game.

 

That point is also clear to a couple of key senior players for Kelloggsville as well.

 

Desmond Simmons, Kelloggsville football player. (WKTV)

For Desmond Simmons, a senior middle linebacker for the Rockets, these next few weeks will be the last time he plays football at the high school level. Hoping for the post-season, Simmons takes pride in how he and the rest of the defense has been playing.

 

“I think we’re looking pretty solid,” Simmons said. “We always try to go hard at practice even if it’s hot, cold, or we’re tired. We always try to go hard and hit somebody.”

 

This will be senior wingback Jaevion Willis’ last year as a high school football player as well.

 

Jaevion Willis, Kelloggsville player. (WKTV)

“We’re taking this week one step at a time,” said Willis. “We’re trying to get better and better every day. We’re looking forward to trying to step up and make the run and make back-to-back conference champs”.

 

Because this is their last season with the Rockets, both Simmons and Willis reflected on their time with coach Galster.

 

“It means a lot,” Simmons said. “It feels real good to be coached by him and have somebody that knows what their doing.”

 

“It’s very exciting, playing for coach Galster,” Willis said. “Or ‘The Goat’ as we call him.”

 

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.

 

Manage menopause with a mantra

3-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Education, Food, Health, How-To's, Local Business, Senior Living, , , ,
Pick and stick to your personal mantra to gain control of your life. (For Spectrum Health Beat)

By Diana Bitner, MD, Spectrum Health Beat

 

The other day I had lunch with a friend at Panera. I had been craving my favorite Fuji apple salad and was really hungry when placing my order.

 

I have been avoiding simple carbs for quite some time, so I ordered an apple as a side—not the French baguette I love.

 

My friend ordered the baguette, and it looked so good! It was so fresh and warm, and I could tell it was crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—exactly the way I like it.

 

I remembered my mantra and grabbed my apple.

 

My mantra is “lean and ease of movement.”

 

It means I can sit with my knees up like I used to when I was younger (and more flexible). It means no extra weight around my middle, and it also means feeling “light” as I move around. My mantra (and everything it represents) is so important to me.

When I am carrying extra weight, I hate the way my clothes feel—tight and restricted. It makes me feel trapped and reminds me of times when I had to sit and practice piano. When I am lean, I feel healthy and in charge of my health, and I don’t have to shop for bigger clothes (an added bonus).

Why do we make the choices we make? Choices imply active decision-making, but sometimes the decision is made by the act of not deciding.

When I was growing up, there was a sign on the wall in the stairwell of my home that read, “Not to decide is to decide.” I think that says it all.

For example, if I choose to not make my lunch or bring a snack to work, I am choosing to be without good choices throughout the day. As a result of not having a plan for lunch or snacks at work, I am choosing to eat fast food or unhealthy snacks, which are not the best for my mind, my mood, or my waistline.

So, what do you care about?

Do you care about your heart and really don’t want to have a heart attack at 50 like your aunt did? Do you want to feel and look great at 60, unlike your sister who smoked and chose not to exercise?

If you dig deep and get at what you really care about and create a mantra to fit, you will claim power over the day-to-day and significant situations that occur in your life.

It could be as mundane as choosing what to eat for lunch (healthy versus unhealthy) or whether or not to exercise when you don’t feel like it, or as important as finding the courage to quit your job to pursue a new career.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself when creating your mantra:

  • What do I really want for my life (or health) in the next six months?
  • When I think about what I really want, what does that mean to me?
  • What feelings do I experience when I look at what I really want for my life?
  • What mantra would capture the feeling of what I want?
  • In what situations would I need/use a mantra?

My mantra helps steer me in the right direction almost daily. Take some time to compose your own mantra and enjoy having more power over the choices you make each day.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment with the Spectrum Health Midlife, Menopause & Sexual Health team, call 616.267.8520.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Kelloggsville football coach: ‘We hold our destiny in our hands’

Area Education, City of Wyoming, Sports, Upcoming Events, WKTV Featured sports
The Rockets getting ready for a key game this week when Godwin Heights comes to town. (WKTV)

By Micah Cho, WKTV Sports Intern

ken@wktv.org

 

With games running out on the 2018 football season, OK-Silver conference rivals Kelloggsville and Godwin Heights have a common goal: getting to the playoffs. Riding a two-game winning streak, if Kelloggsville can keep the wins coming, they’ll be in good shape for the post season.

 

WKTV talked with Coach Galster and Godwin Coach Kimble, see YouTube video at end of story or click here.

 

With four games remaining, and six wins needed to be guaranteed a spot in the postseason. Kelloggsville’s 3-2 record (2-0 in conference) gives them a little bit of wiggle room. But Rockets Head Coach Don Galster understands the pressure that is on him and his team, he just doesn’t let that pressure get to him, however.

 

Rockets Head Coach Don Galster. (WKTV)

“We’re going to be competitive these last four weeks,” Coach Galster told the WKTV Journal. “I really wouldn’t want it any other way. We hold our destiny in our hands and we just have to rise to the occasion.”

 

Galster’s Rockets are not without their hardships. Although they’ve had an almost dominant last two games, it was difficult getting to a place where the team feels comfortable together, he said.

 

“We lost a strong senior class, so we’re really young in some spots,” Coach Galster said. “We’re starting to put it together. We feel good where we are now.”

 

And Coach probably knows when a team is “putting it together” — he has been the head coach of Kelloggsville for 29 seasons.

 

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.

 

WKTV’s coverage of high school sports and select community events are also available on-demand within a week of the event at wktvondemand.com.

 

 

How to keep anger from getting the better of you

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If you’re arguing with someone, anger can be like earplugs. It keeps you from hearing what the other person is saying and finding middle ground. (For Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay

 

Anger isn’t just an emotional reaction—it can affect you physically, too.

 

It’s been shown to raise your risk for heart disease and other problems related to stress—like sleep trouble, digestion woes and headaches.

 

That makes it important, then, to diffuse your anger. Start by figuring out what it is that makes you angry.

 

Researchers from George Mason University, in Virginia, studied just that, and identified 5 common triggers:

  • Other people.
  • Distress—psychological and physical.
  • Demands you put on yourself.
  • Your environment.
  • Unknown sources.

Anger was more intense, the investigators found, when people were provoked by issues with other people or by influences that couldn’t be pinpointed.

 

Once you’ve identified the sources of your anger, take steps to change how your deal with it, the researchers suggested.

 

Decades ago, people often were encouraged to let their anger out. Primal screams and pounding pillows were suggested tactics. Today? Not so much.

 

Studies have shown that therapies that involve letting anger out in a rage don’t really help. They might even make you more angry.

 

Still, it’s important to not keep anger bottled up. But, managing it can keep you from saying or doing things you might regret once the anger has passed.

 

What to do?

 

Start by becoming a calmer person in general. Practice a relaxation technique every day—yoga or mindfulness meditation, for instance.

 

Also develop an anger strategy that you can draw on when you’re in the moment. The idea is to interrupt your response to anger before it gets out of hand and to have a menu of healthier ways to express your feelings.

 

Tactics like time-outs, deep breathing and self-talk can help you calm down and think before acting. Longer-term, reducing your stress level and building empathy skills can help.

 

If you’re arguing with someone, anger can be like earplugs. It keeps you from hearing what the other person is saying and finding middle ground. So instead of acting defensive and trading barbs, hit the pause button.

 

Ask the person to repeat what was said. Then reflect on it before you speak again. Try to figure out the real reason for the argument.

 

This lets you channel the energy of anger into finding a solution.

 

When you’re in a situation you can’t fix—like being stuck in traffic on your way to an appointment—use your rational mind to put the situation in perspective. It’s inconvenient, but more than likely won’t affect your well-being long-term.

 

If you find that you’re angry at forces you can’t identify, consider talking to a mental health therapist. Working together should help you uncover the root of your unhappiness and anger.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

Employment Expertise: Stand out from the crowd with a dynamite cover letter

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By West Michigan Works!

Workshop Spotlight on ‘Cover Letter Writing’

We recently asked Beth, a talent development instructor at West Michigan Works!, for some insider information on their free workshops. Beth has been teaching workshops for seven years and one of her favorite workshops to teach is Cover Letter Writing. This is what she told us about the workshop:

 

What is Cover Letter Writing?

Cover Letter Writing is a free, one-hour workshop open to the public. This workshop provides job seekers with the skills to craft a strong cover letter that presents them as a strong candidate for the job.

 

Why is this such an important workshop for job seekers?

It is crucial in today’s job market to understand how employers use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to screen cover letters and resumes for certain key words and skills related to the job. Job seekers need to know how to tailor their cover letter for ATS screening to get their application materials in front of an actual human. Participants will leave with a good understanding of:

  • what an ATS is and how they work. INSIDER TIP: the website jobscan.co gives an inside look at how ATS scans your application materials for key words.
  • the importance of using specific skills and keywords to tailor your cover letter for each job you apply for.
  • the basic format and content of a cover letter.
  • how to create an opening statement that hooks the reader and makes them want to keep reading. INSIDER TIP: If the first few sentences sound generic, it won’t set you apart from other candidates. Start with whatever you feel is the most impressive aspect of our experience (relevant skills or abilities, year of experience, etc.).

What is something job seekers tell you they were surprised to learn in the workshop?

Cover letters should not be intimidating or seem daunting!  Once you have your first cover letter written, it is a lot easier to change or update key words/skills as you go. Remember that the skills you have in your 20s may not be the same skills you want to highlight in your 30s, 40s, and so on. Your cover letter will always be a working document.

 

Visit jobs.westmiworks.org/calendar/ to find and register for Cover Letter Writing or another workshop near you!

 

Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.

‘Living a better life’

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This slideshow requires JavaScript.

 

By Alyssa Allen, Spectrum Health Beat

 

Photos by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat

 

Matthew Stone didn’t need to look any further than the faces of his two children for motivation to lose weight and live healthier.

 

“You want to see these little people grow up and you start thinking about, ‘What’s going to happen to me?’” Stone said. “I realized that I cannot expect someone else to take care of me, I need to start taking care of myself.”

 

With the support of his wife, Kristin, and his two children—Henry, 6, and Evelyn, 3—Stone started making big changes.

 

In July 2016, at the age of 33 and pushing 400 pounds, Stone had gastric sleeve surgery to start his weight-loss journey.

 

He has since lost more than 150 pounds, weighing in at 232 pounds. He eats well and exercises six days a week, including lifting weights, running and cycling.

 

“I always say that it’s not that I didn’t have a good life before, but now I am living a better life,” Stone said.

 

Last year, when he laced up his running shoes for the Spectrum Health Danish Dash in Greenville, Michigan, it had been his first time competing in an official organized run. By the time he competes in the race again this year, on Aug. 18, he’ll have some other 5K races under his belt.

Making changes

Stone said he had always been a big but active kid. Growing up in Midland, he remembers shoveling his dirt driveway in the winter so he could play basketball.

 

He also played high school sports. As a sophomore, he was a 6-foot-1, 300-pound athlete.

 

Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat

But the weight kept creeping up.

 

“It doesn’t seem like much each year, but then you look back and you’re up 50 pounds,” he said.

 

Over time it became more difficult to ignore the signs that something needed to change.

 

He married in 2007 and it soon became a growing challenge to keep up with his two young children. He couldn’t buy life insurance to protect his family—his weight made it cost-prohibitive. He had to take medication for high blood pressure.

 

He then experienced a liver issue, which turned out to be the start of fatty liver disease. His weight, meanwhile, restricted what he could accomplish in the weight room.

 

“At age 33 I was OK, but it was only a matter of time before I would end up on a bunch of meds,” Stone said. “My body was showing signs it couldn’t keep up.”

 

He tried to diet but success proved elusive. He’d get discouraged when he didn’t see results.

 

“I realized that you can’t out-exercise a bad diet,” Stone said. “I can do a lot more damage with my mouth than I can out-do with my body.”

 

Feeling like he was “chasing his tail,” he signed up for a consultation with a bariatric surgeon.

 

In July 2016 he had gastric sleeve surgery at Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital.

 

“I really felt like the surgery was the first step, because when you’re pushing 400 pounds, I knew I was limited, but I didn’t fully understand how limited I was by the weight,” Stone said.

 

He started off easy, first by walking and then going to the gym and jogging on the treadmill.

 

“From there, it has taken off,” Stone said.

 

His current routine is six days of exercise, including four to five days of 60 to 90 minutes of weight lifting at Fresh Start Fitness in Greenville. He also gets in one or two runs per week—each about 3 to 5 miles—and about 30 minutes of cycling on the Flat River Trail or the stair stepper at the gym.

 

He follows a low-carb, high-fat ketogenic diet. He recently eliminated all sugars, getting all his carbs from vegetables.

Transformation

Stone’s body has indeed changed. He went from a size 56 pants and XXXL shirts to a size 38 and large. He actually enjoys shopping now.

 

At the beginning, he would catch his reflection in a mirror and not recognize himself.

 

Photo by Chris Clark, Spectrum Health Beat

But has he really changed? It’s one question he reflects on frequently. He looks to his wife to help him process it.

 

“I know that divorce rates are high for people who have big weight loss after surgery,” Stone said. “I ask my wife, ‘Have I changed? Let me know if you think I’m changing.’”

 

As an optimistic, outgoing person, Stone feels more comfortable in his skin now.

 

“I feel like my body matches my personality now, that it matches who I really am,” Stone said.

 

He works as a football coach at Greenville High School and as an associate pastor at Greenville First Church of God.

 

He said his faith and the strong support system from his family and community have helped him in this journey.

 

“I see this as part of being a better steward of who I am and what I have,” Stone said.

 

He also hopes he’s providing a good example for his children and his football players.

 

“For too many years, I just didn’t want to deal with it and make the commitment,” he said. “It’s good for everyone around me and good for me to see this is how we live better. Not that I didn’t live good before, but this is better.”

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.

New GVSU Veterans Upward Bound program director on WKTV Journal: In Focus

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WKTV Staff

ken@wktv.org

 

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal: In Focus, we continue our efforts to assist local veterans, this time with a new higher eduction program based out of Grand Valley State University.

 

In Focus is Tim Marroquin, the Director of GVSU Veterans Upward Bound program. The program provides academic and other services to military veterans with the goal of supporting their enrollment and success in postsecondary education. The program is new to the university and to Michigan, but there is a clear need of this service for our veterans.

 

The Upward Bound program is part of GVSU’s Division of Inclusion and Equity, so our first question is why veteran inclusion as important to GVSU as other “minority” groups?

 

“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. But all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

 

Employment Expertise: Helping young adults find a successful, long-term career

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By West Michigan Works!

 

Meet Nate: Nate had no work experience and a disability that made getting a job difficult. Through the Youth Employment Services program, Nate got an apprenticeship with a local electrical company after graduating from high school, attended community college and is on his way to a career in electrical engineering.

 

If you are out of school, having a hard time finding or keeping a job and wondering how to start a career, the West Michigan Works! Youth Employment Services program can help you, just like it did Nate.

 

How can Youth Employment Services help me?

The program offers free services to young adults, ages 16-24, who are experiencing challenges to finding employment. Participants can get on the path to a successful, long-term career through individualized employment and training activities.

  • Obtain your GED or high school diploma.
  • Use assessments and career exploration to develop a career pathway.
  • Participate in work experience to build your resume.
  • Get help removing barriers to employment/training like assistance with transportation, professional clothing, credit recovery and more!

Scholarships may be available for additional job training.

 

Do I qualify?

If you are a young adult, age 16-24, who is experiencing circumstances that make finding and keeping employment challenging, you may qualify. Eligibility is based on income in addition to many other factors.

 

How do I get started?

Certain documentation, like specific forms of ID and proof of income, will be required to enroll. Contact your local program provider to learn more and find out if you are eligible:

 

Bethany Christian Services

1530 Madison Ave NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
616-254-7739

 

Kent Intermediate School District

2930 Knapp NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
616-365-2241

 

Steepletown Neighborhood Services

671 Davis NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
616-451-4251

 

Find other program providers in West Michigan at http://jobs.westmiworks.org/program-providers/.

 

Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.