There will be lots of photo ops with Santa and kids at Woodland Mall this season.
By Woodland Mall
After opening the new Von Maur wing, first-to-market retailers and The Cheesecake Factory this fall, Woodland Mall continues its celebrations into the holiday season with a packed schedule of events for all to enjoy.
Photos with Santa, princess and Star Wars-themed events, live music and gift-wrapping fundraisers will deck the halls and help spread holiday cheer at Woodland Mall now to the new year.
“With festive decorations, extended hours and a variety of activities fit for the season, Woodland Mall is a fun destination for shoppers of all ages to get into the holiday spirit,” said Marketing Director Cecily McCabe. “This year especially has been a continuous celebration with all the wonderful new retailers, restaurants and features we have added.
“We’re excited to multiply the magic of the holidays for those re-experiencing Woodland Mall and all it has to offer this season.”
Photos with Santa for Everyone
As one of the most iconic holiday events, Santa Claus returns to his seat in the heart of the Arctic Forest, which is located in Center Court this year, ready to take photos with shoppers of all ages through Christmas Eve. Visitors can also visit with Ursa, the enormous 12-foot polar bear decked with thousands of holiday lights, while they wait to see Santa.
Families are welcome to bring their “fur babies” along for photos with Santa on Mondays through Dec. 16. Feathered, whiskered and hooved pets are welcome too. Santa has heard Christmas wishes from cats, chickens and even goats! All pets may join as long as they are kept on a leash or in a crate at all times.
Star Wars, Princess and other themed events
Insta Holiday — Shoppers are invited to Insta Holiday at Woodland Mall, a three day-event packed with activities you will love. Events include glow-in-the-mall silent discos hosted by WSNX with DJ CHOFF, a selfie scavenger hunt, sequin wall art contest and multiple chances to receive giveaways and win concert tickets.
The event will take place Dec. 12-14 from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday.
Snowflake Social — Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to noon. Woodland Mall is getting into the holiday spirit with fun for all ages! Enjoy a festive Starbucks hot chocolate with all the fun toppings at our hot cocoa bar, festive activities with Kent District Library, winter wonderland crafts and live holiday music from the Salvation Army Band. Guests can also receive a light-up candy cane with a visit to Santa Claus, while supplies last.
Winter Princess Party with Santa — Thursday, Dec. 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. Enjoy a winter wonderland party for your favorite little princess. Attendees will get to meet three real winter princesses, enjoy a wintry take-home craft, enjoy live holiday music, make their own princess crown and receive a light-up princess wand. For exclusive access into this enchanted event, guests can simply purchase any Santa Photo Package now through Dec. 12 and present the receipt. Visit shopwoodlandmall.com/holiday to skip the lines and purchase a fast-pass for photos with Santa.
Star Wars Day — Woodland Mall is calling all Star Wars fans to dress up as their favorite hero or villain on Saturday, Dec. 14 from noon to 1 p.m. for Star Wars Character Day. Participants will have the chance to meet and interact with 10 Star Wars characters, who will also be available for photos.
Enjoy holiday music
The Salvation Army Band will also perform in the Macy’s wing on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 21 from 10 to 12 p.m.
Additionally, Von Maur will host a holiday jazz concert on Dec. 14 from 1 to 5 p.m. for shoppers to enjoy while selecting the perfect gifts for loved ones.
Get gifts wrapped for a good cause
To tie everything together, the Purple Community Gift Wrapping Fundraiser will take place on the weekends of Dec. 7-8 and 14-15 in the JCPenney wing near Altar’d State. Shoppers are invited to bring gifts large and small on those Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. to be wrapped in exchange for a cash donation benefitting the Van Andel Institute’s biomedical research and science education.
The mall will have special extended hours to ensure that guests are able to get all their shopping completed before the holiday. Please visit shopwoodlandmall.com for a full list of updated holiday hours.
Andy Williams repeatedly croons through retail sound systems, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.”
But for those whose companion animals have died and will not be home for Christmas or Hanukkah, it can, instead, be one of the most painful times of the year.
Whether this is the first holiday season you’ve experienced without your beloved companion animal, or the season has come and gone several times since her death, it can be particularly difficult.
This year, consider giving yourself a gift. Gift yourself with permission, quiet time and sacred space. Allow yourself to remember your companion animal and be fully present without judgment to all the emotions such remembering evokes. Sadness and tears, anger and pangs of guilt, joy and laughter.
Here are just a few “gift” ideas:
Light a candle
Treat yourself to a beautiful candle. Find a meaningful place in your home to place it during the season, perhaps next to a favorite photograph of your companion animal. Set aside daily time — even five or ten minutes — to light it, allowing yourself to be enveloped by its warmth. Reflect upon your time together, focusing on your gratitude for and the lessons learned from your companion’s life being part of your journey.
Have a heartfelt talk
During your candlelit moments, if the spirit moves you, have a conversation. Out loud. Or journal. Share with your companion animal whatever is on your mind. You may have feelings bottled up inside that have never been spoken. Perhaps the circumstances of your companion animal’s death continue to haunt you. Perhaps you’re considering or struggling with adopting another animal. Perhaps the loss triggers unresolved grief from earlier losses.
Share your companion animal’s items
Items that belonged to your companion animal — a toy with which she played, a blanket in which she snuggled, clothing with her scent, like a ThunderShirt — are often all that’s physically left behind and can be very difficult to part with. If you’re ready, the giving season may be the right time to share some or all of them.
Make a dedication
Volunteer your service or make a donation to a shelter or other animal-related organization in your companion animal’s name. For many years, I have made donations to Wings of Wonder, a raptor rehabilitation organization, as memorial gifts. The group sends a picture of the screech owl who will be released into the wild, soaring on her own wings, to the grieving family.
Create a scrapbook
If you haven’t already done so, create a scrapbook of or fill a box with favorite photos, writings and other memorabilia that remind you of your companion animal.
Visit a special place
Visit a special place — a dog park, a walking trail – that was special for you and your companion animal. Gently care for the space while there. Before returning home, you may want to leave something behind as a tribute — a flower or a favorite treat for the lucky animal who happens upon it first. Such acts are powerful healing tools. There were so many items left at the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial site in Washington DC, the National Park Service eventually hired people to collect and catalogue them, and later opened the Museum Resource Center, a climate-controlled warehouse, to store them.
Attend a blue Christmas service
Many Christian churches, especially in West Michigan, now have special services in early December designed especially for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
Continue to live and love
While grieving plays an important role in healing, our companion animals, I believe, would want us to continue living and loving. Decorate your home. Hang your companion’s stocking and fill it with items to be given to a shelter or other animal advocacy organization. Most importantly, surround yourself with the love of others — other companion animals and people who respect your love for and loss of your companion animal.
Animal advocate and attorney Ginny Mikita is the founder of Animal Blessings, an organization dedicated to honoring the sacred worth of all animals. Mikita’s companion animal loss support services include facilitating a monthly Companion Animal Loss Grief Support Group, officiating an annual Memorial Service in December, writing grief columns for local publications and speaking at gatherings — local and national — of animal care and protection professionals. Additionally, Mikita regularly officiates Blessings of the Animals in both religious and secular environments.
A great way to avoid double-dipping: Place utensils in the dip bowl so guests can scoop a dollop directly onto a plate. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
Double-dipping with a dance partner? A skillful move marked by grace and beauty.
Double-dipping with a snack at a party? Not quite so beautiful or graceful.
But definitely risky.
Using partially eaten food items such as vegetables or chips to scoop dip from a container can deposit bacteria from the double dipper’s mouth into the dip, which can make people ill if they dip into that same container, said Jessica Corwin, MPH, RDN, community nutrition educator for Spectrum Health Healthier Communities. Especially if the individual is sick.
Even a small amount of bacteria introduced by saliva can grow rapidly, perhaps to more than 100 times the initial level, potentially leading to serious illnesses such as a norovirus or herpes if the person has those viruses.
Even if the party guest is not sick, the bacteria they introduce can lead to foodborne illnesses.
While hosts and guests can take steps to protect partygoers from those who act carelessly with food, most of the precautions rest with the host.
Danger zone
For starters, dips that need to be kept cool should be placed on ice.
Dips that need to be kept warm should be placed over the proper heating
source, Corwin said.
“Forty-one to 140 degrees Fahrenheit is the danger zone,” she said. “That’s when bacteria can thrive.”
An extra-thorough host can use a thermometer to check temperatures.
The general rule: Leave food out no longer than two hours. If food is sitting outdoors, limit the time to one hour or less, depending on the temperature.
Also, set out smaller amounts of dip and replace them regularly with chilled dip stored in a refrigerator or cooler.
Some dips will grow bacteria more quickly than others, Corwin said. Runny dips, such as salsa and varieties made from sour cream, pose more of a threat than solid dips such as hummus.
And while it may be more tedious to prepare pre-portioned dip in containers, it could also be a wise move—especially if children are expected to attend the gathering.
“Kids are notorious for double-dipping,” Corwin said. As a mom of three, she speaks from experience.
Hands-free
At day’s end, there isn’t much that guests can do to protect themselves from double-dippers. One option is to bring your own food, or even abstain from eating, but that’s neither fun nor practical.
Still, precautions can be taken.
“If you’re dipping from something more solid, like hummus, take your helping from a portion not touched yet,” Corwin said.
Also, aim for dips that have serving utensils. If the host has set out serving spoons and dishes, people won’t need to double-dip—they can use the utensils to place an adequate amount of chips and dip on their plates.
Corwin emphasized the tried-and-true food safety mantra: “When in doubt, throw it out.
“As a host, anything you can do to take those extra precautions would be advisable,” she said. “You wouldn’t want any of your guests to leave sick, because you want them to come back.”
If you want to surprise your little ones with gifts that keep on giving, go for something that inspires physical activity. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
A simple jump rope is a fun way to get active and you’re not just
limited to jumping rope. Use the rope in many ways to promote
exercise—make a limbo line, walk across the rope like a tight rope, or
jump over the rope while it’s on the ground. Be creative!
2. Frisbee
If you have children or pets, a Frisbee can be a great way to promote
activity. If you have a lot of family, you can play ultimate Frisbee.
It’s like football with a Frisbee, but without the tackling. You can
find official rules at USA Ultimate, make up your own, or just play together and move.
3. Sports ball
Since there are too many to name, we figured we’d just include most
sports equipment in this category. But a tennis ball, football, or Nerf
ball are great for encouraging children to get active. Even better, you
can play together! In the winter, get something you can use in the snow.
4. Hopping ball
You can find these at many toy stores. A hopping ball is a ball with a handle that kids can sit on and hop up and down. Adults should give it a try, too. It’s harder than it looks and oh so much fun. Just inflate and bounce!
5. Hopscotch rug
If there is too much snow for hopscotch, play it indoors with this fun rug. Or make your own by using colorful painter’s tape on the floor.
6. Yoga cards
There are many different versions of these cards. When you draw a yoga card, try to do the yoga pose shown on the card. You can take them anywhere—you just need a little bit of space for yoga.
He’s made his list, he’s checked it twice, and he’s making a few last-minute stops in West Michigan before his big sleigh ride on Christmas Eve! Here’s a few places you can spot Santa Claus and his friends this month.
Santa’s Central West Michigan stops
All visitors are welcome to share their holiday wishes with Santa at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. Remember to bring your camera for a Santa selfie or a photo with him on his sleigh. Santa will be located in the Peter C. & Emajean (Pat) Cook Entry Arbor Dec. 3rd, 10th, and 17th from 5-8pm.
Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association
Join the Grand Rapids Public Museum for a special morning with Santa & Mrs. Claus for pictures, breakfast, Let it Snow in the Planetarium, a holiday gift, and endless exploration of the museum all day. This holiday fundraiser supports exhibitions and programming at the museum. Celebrate the holidays with the GRPM through this exclusive experience. Tickets are limited and can be purchased at grpm.org or by calling 616.929.1700. Breakfast with Santa will have two sessions on Dec. 14th, at 8:30am and again at 10am.
Stop by the Grand Rapids Downtown Market to visit the big guy himself 2-6pm on Dec. 14th and 15th. Bring your wish list to ensure you land on Santa’s ‘nice’ list this year.
Enjoy brunch with Santa at Wheelhouse Kitchen & Cocktails in Grand Rapids Dec. 14th & 15th. The event includes a delicious brunch buffet, professional photos with Santa, cookie decorating, kids activities, and more. Brunch is $29.95 for adults and $14.95 for kids.
Santa arrives in Downtown Holland, escorted by bands, floats, trucks, family, and friends all decked out in thousands of sparkling holiday lights during the Parade of Lights, Dec. 3rd! More than 80 entries will illuminate the streets of Downtown Holland. At the end of the parade, Santa will greet his fans — young and old alike! The parade begins at 8th Street and Columbia Avenue and continues on to the Eighth Street Market Place, home of the Holiday Kerstmarkt.
Visit Santa Claus at Santa’s House in Downtown Holland through Dec. 23rd. There is no charge to sit on Santa’s lap, but be sure to bring your own camera for photos.
You’ll find Santa in Grand Haven Main Street’s Centertown (7th Street Corridor) 11am-2pm on Dec. 14th at a number of participating merchants.
Santa and his elves are coming to the Cartier Mansion in Ludington on Dec. 7th to help support the Ludington Cares program. Cookies and hot cocoa will be provided, and don’t forget your camera for pictures with Santa! Cash donations will be accepted to help purchase winter gear, toiletries and non-perishable food items for the Ludington and Scottville Cares boxes.
Visit with Santa Claus and have your photo taken at the Ludington Library, Dec. 7th, 10am-3pm.
Santa Claus is coming to the White Lake Christmas Parade on Dec. 7th! Over 50 participants will line up and follow the parade route from Whitehall to Montague along Colby Street. The 67th annual parade promises to provide excitement with floats from area churches, civic organizations, businesses, area neighbors, cartoon characters, clowns, parading fire trucks, and animals of all shapes and sizes, all handing out candy and goodies. As the Grand Finale, Santa will make his entrance with a horse drawn carriage. He will be eager to see children of all ages following the parade at his house outside Montague City Hall located on Ferry St.
There will be plenty of opportunities to visit Santa in Mecosta County. He will be hopping from storefront to storefront through Dec. 21st. All of the times and information about catching Santa in downtown Big Rapids can be found on the Mecosta County community events calendar.
Visit with Santa at his home at Town Center in Downtown Mt. Pleasantthe weekends leading up to Christmas. Click here for the Santa Visits schedule. Stop by to eat pancakes with Santa at the pancake breakfast Saturday, Dec. 7th, during the Mt. Pleasant Christmas Celebration.
Santa’s South West Michigan Stops
The city of Marshall keeps Santa Claus busy. He’ll be popping up at different stores in the quaint downtown all throughout December. Kids will want to bring their wish lists, but it’s also a good excuse to get some holiday shopping done. In locally owned stores, you’ll find outdoor gear, stationary, mandolins, plants, Michigan-themed housewares, natural dog treats, books, and more. For a complete list of Santa sightings, go to choosemarshall.com.
Grandma’s Treats and Toys in Marshallis going to celebrate the elves (not Santa) with an Elf Party — after all, it’s the elves who do the hard work of making the toys. There will be activities and ice cream sundaes. It’ll be held in the toy store’s new Party and Play location. From 9am to 1pm, Mondays through Fridays, kids can use the play stations and toys.
Christmas comes alive during the annual Quincy Lights & Holiday Market in Coldwater Country,Friday, Dec. 6th, as Santa arrives in town. Kids will enjoy cooking, decorating, games, crafts, and of course, visiting with Santa at the Quincy Fire Station.
Head to downtown Coldwater on Saturday, Dec. 7th for the annual Christmas Parade and a visit to Santaland. Tree-lit streets, bands playing Christmas carols, children anxiously awaiting a glimpse of Santa, and more await you during the magic of the holidays in Coldwater.
Enjoy the sights and sounds of a steam engine train in the winter with a ride aboard The Christmas Express at Coldwater Country’s Little River Railroad. Visit with Santa on the train, enjoy holiday treats, and a Christmas tour of the depot on Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 7th & 8th, and 14th & 15th.
Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association
Have brunch with Santa at Plank’s Tavern at The Inn at Harbor Shores in St. Joseph Dec. 8th and 21st. Reservations are recommended.
Picture perfect holiday fun is available weekends in December in downtown St. Joseph. Santa’s house, located on the corner of State and Pleasant Streets will be open Thursdays & Fridays 4-6pm, Saturdays noon-5pm, and Sundays 1-5pm through Dec. 23rd.
Airway Fun Centerin Portage will be hosting Breakfast and Bowling with Santa, Dec. 22nd from 9am-noon. Admission to the event is $15 per person and comes with unlimited bowling, shoe rental, and all you can eat breakfast buffet as well as a visit from Old St. Nick. Seats can be reserved in advance or at the door the day of the event.
On Dec. 7th, Santa stops by Crane’s Pie Pantryin Fennville noon-3pm. Come by and whisper in his ear what you want for Christmas!
WKTV’s Joanne Bailey-Boorsma gets the scoop about SpringGR from Arlene Campbell, chief creator of opportunities and Attah Obande, director of dream fulfillment
SpringGR is a 12-week training experience to help entrepreneurs develop their business idea or business. This Thursday, Dec. 5, SpringGR will host its fall graduation at 6pm at 818 Butterworth St. SW. Valet parking is complimentary and available for the event. Six SpringGR entrepreneurs will pitch their businesses to a group of judges. Go here for the details.
The true spirit of giving
A group of Grand Valley State University engineering students recently delivered a custom-built electric swing to an area family to help their daughter with special needs. The students built the specialized swing for Alexis Truax after her mother, Sarah Truax, contacted the School of Engineering after seeing a story on the local news about a similar project. More about this project here.
Have coffee with this guy
Alan Headbloom tapes his show here at WKTV
‘Feel Like You Belong’ producer and host Alan Headbloom will be the featured guest at Mr. Sid’s Wednesday Afternoon Video Series Wednesday,Dec. 4, at Marge’s Donut Den, 1751 28th St. SW, in Wyoming. Headbloom, who has 30 years of experience in cross cultural communication on six continents, will be discussing ‘Immigrants: Your Country Needs Them’ at 2pm. Read all about it here.
Fun fact:
The Beatles song ‘A Day in the Life’ has a frequency only dogs can hear
In an interview in 2013, Paul McCartney said that he added a frequency only dogs can hear to the end of the Beatles song ‘A Day in the Life’.
Live, container-grown Christmas trees provide consumers with a real tree option that can be planted into their landscapes following the holidays. Many types of Christmas trees commonly grown in Michigan also make attractive landscape trees. In order to have the best success with a living Christmas tree, Michigan State University Extension recommends following these guidelines.
Choose a tree species that will make a good landscape tree as an attractive Christmas tree. Carefully consider your site and choose species that are well adapted to it. Be sure to allow plenty of room for growth since almost all conifers used as living Christmas trees are fast growing trees. Several types of spruces such as Serbian, black hills, Norway and white spruce, along with Canaan fir, are good choices for most Michigan landscapes. Fraser fir is sometimes sold as a potted living Christmas tree, but it requires sites with good soil drainage or soil pH below 6.0 – conditions that are not typical of most Michigan landscapes. For more information about other other conifers to use, see the tip sheet “Alternative conifers for Michigan landscapes.”
A container-grown tree provides a different option for the holiday season. Photo credit: Bert Cregg, MSU
Remember, your living tree is alive, so treat it like a houseplant and make sure to water it regularly. Place the tree in a cooler area away from heat sources such as fireplaces or furnace outlets to help keep it from drying out. Also bear in mind the tree will lose cold hardiness the longer it is held indoors, which can impact its ability to stand up to cold once you place it back outdoors. Plan on keeping the tree indoors for no more than two weeks.
Many articles on the Internet recommend planting living trees immediately after display or placing them outside and heavily mulching the container to protect the roots. In Michigan and other northern climates, holding trees in a shed or unheated garage and then planting them in the spring is the best solution. Make sure to periodically check the moisture levels and water the plant as needed. Keep the trees in a protected location until spring time and plant them when you would normally plant trees and shrubs in your area.
More information on selecting and caring for your Christmas tree from MSU Extension
It is a well-known practice — impulse items placed at the checkout line. These items are strategically placed to catch your eye as you unload your shopping cart.
Gum, candy, assorted snacks and a growing assortment of miscellaneous items like pipe cleaners and nail clippers are placed at just the right level along with the array of magazines with “gotcha” headlines. Within the past few years a growing number of gift cards have shown up as well. Many of these items could be considered convenience items, last minute gifts, something to eat on the commute home.
More recently, you are even offered a chance to save money instantly. This is great! You are not adding to your total, you are actually saving money!
What’s the catch?
“Excuse me sir,” says the sales associate. “Would you like to save ten percent on your purchase today?” You think of your budget. Money is tight right now. “I sure would,” you reply. “Great!” replies the associate. “I just need to get some information from you. You will not only save ten percent today. You will save five percent on all additional purchases!” This is beginning to sound better and better. Sure, you have to sign up for a “box store” credit card, but you will really save on the big screen television in your cart. What could be the down side?
Did you know that every time a merchant signs you up for a credit card, they check your credit? Did you know that every time your credit is checked for such an application, it may have an effect on your credit score? According to statistics reported by the Federal Reserve, American consumers hold more than 880 billion dollars in revolving debt. Have you ever heard the saying, “the house always wins?”
The box store credit card offers to save you 10 percent on your purchase will save you money if you pay off the balance each month. What box stores want is for you to buy more box store stuff. If you are not disciplined enough, the credit card offers are not being made to save you money. If box store wanted you to save money with no strings attached, they could hand out ten percent-off coupons at the checkout. Store credit cards are meant for you to spend more money at the store and to charge interest if you do not pay the balance. Be prepared and look for ways to save money. Make a list of the items that you want to buy and sleep on it. Compare prices for the items on the list at a number of stores. Be efficient and plan your trips ahead of time. Resist the check-out line offers.
Credit is not the problem. Too much credit is the problem. Maybe you can resist the extra plastic in your wallet. Michigan State University Extension offers a variety of money management programs throughout the state of Michigan. For more information, check out this website .
The Kentwood-based Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (D&HHS) will host a special “Signing Santa” event this week. (Supplied/D&HHS)
WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
The Kentwood-based Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (D&HHS) offers a multitude of programs with the goal to “provide equal communication access, education and advocacy to the Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing in pursuit of all life’s opportunities.”
And, this time of the year, one of those opportunities often unavailable to local deaf and hard of hearing children is simply visiting — and communicating with — Santa.
So, for the 10th holiday season, a D&HHS event will present a deaf ‘Signing Santa’ on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Crossroads Middle School, 4400 Ambrose NE, Grand Rapids.
“To see a child who is deaf have that experience with a deaf Santa who literally speaks their language takes my breath away every time,” Deb Atwood, D&HHS executive director, said in supplied material. “It never gets old. Every time I see it, I see it through the eyes of the child, and it is amazing every single time.”
In addition to Signing Santa, the event also will feature two signed story times at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., and will also include holiday crafts, snacks and drinks.
Some of the guests at Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (D&HHS) special “Signing Santa” event in 2018. (Supplied/D&HHS)
According to D&HHS, there also will be numerous interpreters at the event so that everyone has access. Interpreters at the entrance, interpreters at the crafts, interpreters for Santa and interpreters for the story. Every station will have ASL to English and English to ASL interpreters.
There will also be gifts will be available to the first 50 children, and gift donations from the public are still being welcomed. People who would like to donate can call 616-732-7358 for more details.
For more information about Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, visit deafhhs.org .
Following the recipe for food safety is a must anytime you’re in the kitchen—and it starts with clean hands, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says.
“Always wash your hands with soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food,” spokeswoman Isabel Maples advised in an academy news release. “Don’t forget to wash your hands after handling raw meat and poultry to avoid spreading germs through the juices.”
Wash fruits and vegetables, but don’t wash meat and poultry before cooking. Doing so could spread harmful bacteria to your sink and surrounding kitchen areas, she explained.
“Clean your countertops with hot, soapy water. Use paper towels or disinfectant wipes, instead of washcloths or sponges, which can harbor bacteria,” Maples said.
Take apart small appliances—such as can openers and blenders—to clean them, then air dry completely before storing, she recommended.
“Clean your refrigerator every few weeks to rid it of potentially dangerous residue from raw foods. Rid your refrigerator of leftovers after four days. When in doubt, throw it out,” Maples said.
Use a food thermometer when cooking meat—it’s the only real way to know if it’s done, she suggested.
“Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, without it touching the bones or the bottom of the pan, to avoid getting a false reading. Then clean your thermometer with hot, soapy water after each use,” Maples said.
Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold and refrigerate perishable foods within two hours, or within one hour during warmer weather.
Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator, in cold water or in the microwave—not on the counter. Pathogens multiply fast when foods are in the “danger” zone between 40 degrees and 140 degrees.
“Store foods in the correct area of the refrigerator,” Maples said. “To minimize the risk of raw juices dripping into other foods, put cooked and ready-to-eat foods at the top and raw meats and poultry at the bottom. Plus, place raw meats in a container to catch any drips.”
Many of you have probably started your holiday shopping already, but it is still not too late to avoid money problems this holiday season. It seems that the shopping season begins earlier and earlier, and this year is no exception. However, you still have time to avoid the pitfall that so many fall into this time of year — overspending. As retail sales continue to rise, you can take steps now to avoid money problems later.
Go ahead and do your part to help our economy grow. Holiday sales can define a retailer’s bottom line for the entire year, and they hire many seasonal employees to handle the increased sales. However, do your part without the worry of becoming a negative economic statistic. First, sit down and think about some important questions. Who are all the people you would like to buy presents for this holiday season? Give yourself some time to write them down.
Second, are there any other significant events that are occurring prior to, during or shortly after the holidays. Many people still have birthdays around the holidays, for example. What about weddings or anniversaries? What about baby showers? Ask all the people in your household to join in on the brainstorming session. It could be a fun family activity to get you in the mood to shop.
Third, decide on an average amount that you would like to spend on each gift and then multiply the amount times the number of gifts you want to buy. For example, if you decide to spend an average of $40 per gift and you have ten holiday presents, one baby shower gift and two birthdays within the next two months, you will need $520 (13 X $40) to buy all of your planned gifts.
Fourth, you may need to make some adjustments. Do you have $520 on-hand? If not, how soon can you save that amount? Do you have room in your monthly spending plan to save for $520? Do you need to decrease the average spent on each gift? Do you even have a spending plan? If not, Michigan State University Extension offers a variety of money management programs throughout the state of Michigan. You can also find help with making a spending plan at mimoneyhealth.org.
Finally, once you have an amount that you can afford, set the money aside either in cash or in your bank account. You may use an envelope to save the cash at home or deposit your savings into a holiday or savings account at a financial institution. Keep track of each gift purchased and if you overspend on one, make adjustments where you can. If you stick to your plan, you will contribute to the economy and not have a pile of debt left over for the New Year. Next year, start earlier and you may be able to do more for the economy and save money in the process.
While it’s true that supplies of some species, particularly Fraser fir, will be tighter than in past years, consumers that want a real tree will be able to find one. Michigan farms and tree lots offer an array of great Christmas tree choices. Whether you look for a pre-cut tree at a local tree lot or bundle up the family for the choose-and-cut experience, you will find a wide variety of tree types that offer something for everyone.
Scots pine. Photo credit: Bert Cregg and Jill O’Donnell, MSU
How do I find a real tree?
As with most things, shopping early will ensure the best selection. If your holiday tradition is to put the tree up closer to Christmas day, you can store your tree with its cut end in water in your garage or other protected, unheated space until you are ready to move it into the house. (See “3 easy steps to make your real Christmas tree last this holiday season.”) Consumers will also have an easier time finding a real tree if they are willing to expand the menu of trees they choose from. Michigan Christmas tree growers produce a diverse range of Christmas tree types, and this might be the year to consider something different for your holiday tradition.
To help you pick the perfect tree, Michigan State University Extension has developed a description of the main types of trees grown in Michigan:
These Christmas tree species can be found at nearly every choose-and-cut farm or tree lot.
Fraser fir
Fraser fir continues to increase in popularity for good reason. Fraser fir has blue-green needles with silvery undersides. The branches are stiff and hold up well to ornaments. The trees have a pleasant scent and needle retention is excellent. For more pictures and information on this species, see MSU‘s Fraser fir Youtube video. (Photo credit: Bert Cregg and Jill O’Donnell, MSU.)
Scots pine
Scots pine is the tree species that has long defined the Michigan Christmas tree and is still a favorite for traditionalists. Scots pines are dense trees with dark-green needles. Stiff branches hold up well to ornaments and needle retention is excellent. Scots pine is also an economical choice. For more pictures and information on this species, see MSU‘s Scots pine YouTube video.
Douglas fir
Douglas fir is a dense tree with soft, light green needles. You’ll need to stick with lighter-weight ornaments since the branches are not as stiff as some other species. Another good choice for budget-conscious consumers. For more pictures and information on this species, see MSU‘s Douglas fir YouTube video.
Blue spruce. Photo credit: Bert Cregg and Jill O’Donnell, MSU
Blue spruce
Blue spruce remains a popular Christmas tree because of its bright blue color. Branches are stiff and hold ornaments well. Blue spruce needles are quite sharp, so be sure to wear gloves and long-sleeves when handling. While the needles may make the tree hard to handle, some people choose blue spruce to keep pets away from the tree. For more pictures and information on this species, see MSU‘s blue spruce YouTube video.
Black hills spruce
Black hills spruce have needles that are shorter and softer than Colorado blue spruce. Black hills spruce have excellent color and have a very traditional Christmas tree appearance. Branches are stiff and hold up well to ornaments.
White pine
White pine is one of two Michigan native conifers commonly used for Christmas trees, along with balsam fir. This is a dense tree with soft, green needles. This tree will require light-weight ornaments. For consumers that have a high ceiling and want a larger tree, white pine can be an economical choice. For more pictures and information on this species, see MSU‘s white pine YouTube video.
Balsam fir
Balsam fir has long been a preferred species for many consumers because of its strong Christmas tree scent. It has dark green needles and excellent form.
Concolorfir
Concolor fir have longer needles that may be as blue as a blue spruce. The big draw for this species, however, is the strong, citrus-like scent of its needles. For more pictures and information on this species, see MSU‘s concolor fir YouTube video.
Korean fir is native to Asia, as noted by the name, but grows well in our climate and soil. It has dark green needles with striking silvery undersides. The form and unique texture add to this species’ appeal. For more pictures and information on this species, see MSU‘s Korean fir Youtube video.
Canaan fir
Canaan fir does combine many of the characteristics of balsam fir with better needle retention of Fraser fir. It is sometimes described as a hybrid between balsam fir and Fraser fir, but is actually a specific seed source from balsam fir from the Canaan Valley of West Virginia. For more pictures and information on this species, see MSU‘s Canaan fir Youtube video.
Want to find a Christmas tree farm near you? Visit the Michigan Christmas Tree Association website to see choose and cut farms, retail lots, and wholesale farms in your area!
More information on selecting and caring for your Christmas tree from MSU Extension
“Tree decorating with cats. O Christmas tree, O christmas tree, your Ornaments are history!”
Courtney VanSickle
Perfectly decorated trees at MMA
The Muskegon Museum of Art is jumping into the holiday spirit early with its 15th annual Festival of Trees, running through Dec. 1, highlighted by a silent auction of the display trees. The complete story is here.
Get a early peek at the Garden
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s annual Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition is not officially open until Nov. 26, but much of it is already up — and thee is a great show in the featured art gallery. The complete story is here.
The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ holiday concerts at the Grand Rapids Public Museum.
Holiday music live at GRPM
Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) holiday events kicks off this weekend with two Classic Melodies organ concerts as part of the Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ Concert Series. The complete story is here.
Fun fact:
Almost 1 million
The number of songs in the “Christmas Music Catalogue” … Well. actually, 914,047 tracks represent 180,660 unique songs and were created by 63,711 unique artists – from Aaron Neville to Zuma the King. The top 20 artists with the most Christmas tracks in the Spotify catalog are all pre-Beatles artists. (Source)
Phyllis Lockhart (left) and Pat French ate part of the 2019 Santa Claus Girls army of volunteers. (WKTV)
By K.D. Norris ken@wktv.org
Even after 110 years, two things remain constant for the Santa Claus Girls this time of the year: an army of volunteers are working to wrap and package gift bundles to be delivered to thousands of Western Michigan kids, and they could always use a little more community support.
Undated historic photo of Santa Claus Girls. (Supplied/Santa Claus Girls)
The Santa Claus Girls’s history in Kent County dates from 1909 and these days they operate out of the Knoll Inc. building on 36th in Kentwood — from where they delivered more than 13,500 gift packages in 2018 and hope to meet or beat that number this year.
“We are all very excited to help our community,” Maggie Moerdyke, a buyer for the Santa Claus Girls, said to WKTV this week. “And we want the public to know that if you know somebody that has a need, or anyone who has been displaced, please have them register” for gift delivery, at santaclausgirls.org.
And while the kids each get a new toy and candy — What else would be expected? —they also get hand-made, knitted winter hats and mittens. And shine very young kids have other, very specific, needs which donors might not think about.
“Our donations are coming in hot and heavy, but we still need receiving blankets, crocheted or knitted or out of flannel, as well as infant toys, and 1-year-old and 2-year-old stuffed animals that have sewn eyes or painted eyes,” Moerdyke said. “That would be awesome.”
Steve Loar, a Santa Claus Girls volunteer. (WKTV)
Of course, there is still current need for gift wrapping and package-assembly help currently at their Kentwood location, as well volunteers to join the army of drivers to deliver the packages in mid-December.
“People can go too our website, santaclausgirls.org, to sign up as drivers for (Saturday) December 14 … they will be in half-hour blocks, and each driver will have approximately 10 to 12 on their route,” Moerdyke said. “And as to working on the line, that is also online … and we will need lots of help after Thanksgiving.”
While somethings do not change — the need in the community and the willingness of Santa Claus Girls to help meet that need, for examples — Moerdyke said every year something new comes along to inspire her and the army of volunteers.
This year, she said, there are five families that, in lieu of giving each other Christmas presents, are taking collections and making donations to the Santa Claus Girls efforts. “I think that is amazing.”
Muskegon Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees. (Supplied/LaShelle Mikesell)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
Looking to get an early start on the Christmas festivities? How about taking an easy and beautiful way decorate your own home for the holidays?
The Muskegon Museum of Art is jumping into the holiday spirit early with its 15th annual Festival of Trees, running Nov. 20 through Dec. 1, highlighted by a silent auction of the display trees, as well as a special concert and cocktail hour Friday, Nov. 29.
The Festival of Trees includes professionally designed themed trees and décor which will be available for purchase through silent auction over the 11 days of the festival. Raffles, music, holiday shopping, and other special events will also be available.
The festival runs Wednesday, Nov. 20, through Sunday, Dec. 1, daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sundays 12-5 p.m, but closed Thanksgiving Day. Festival admission is $10 for adult, $5 for MMA members, $3 for children 3-17 yrs. (under 3 free), and $15 for an All Festival Pass.
Among the special events are a First Day Food Drive, Nov. 20, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., when attendees receive half-off Festival of Trees admission with your donation to Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry.
Other special events are a Deck Your Halls Decorating Demo Event on Nov. 24 — when floral designers Deb Moon from Le Fleur Shoppe and Skeeter Parkhouse from Wasserman’s Flowers and Gifts will demonstrate how to create unique holiday décor , with items created during the demo raffled to the audience.
Other special events are Senior Day, Family Day, , a Teddy Bear Breakfast, and a special Cocktail Hour for Muskegon Civic Theatre “The Christmas Carol” ticket holders.
The Teddy Bear Breakfast, on Saturday, Nov. 30, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., is a family-favorite especially fun for kids 3-8 years old. Tickets includes festive breakfast with fruit, sausage, muffins, quiche, juice, and coffee; Teddy bear checkup by a certified teddy bear nurse; a visit with Santa; Teddy Bear Parade and Story Time; and Make-and-Take craft.
The special Nov. 29 concert and cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. and is $12 per person ($10 MMA members) and tickets may be purchased by calling 231-720-2580.
Muskegon Museum of Art is located at 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon. For more information visit muskegonmuseum.org .
It is good to learn from your mistakes. It is better to learn from other people’s mistakes.
Warren Buffett
Veterans tell their story
Federal, state, county and city government leaders and representatives listened to veterans telling their inspiring stories and express their concerns about government services Monday, Nov. 11, as the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum was fittingly held at Kentwood’s AMVETS Post 23. Get the link the video here .
Survivor tells his story
Eighty-one years have passed since the Kristainancht took place in Germany and Holocaust survivor Martin Lowenberg can still see the synagogues burning. Here’s the complete story.
Listening to others’ stories
On the latest episode of WKTV Journal In Focus, we talk two members of Grand Rapids HQ, a drop-in center for youth ages 14-24 in housing crisis, including but not limited to LGBTQ-plus youth. And their first job is to listen. Find a like to the video here.
(Not so) fun fact:
650
The face of homelessness in Michigan is looking younger. The Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness reports more than 65,000 people in this state are homeless. About one percent of those are unaccompanied minors. And the number is slowly rising.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition. (Supplied/Johnny Quirin)
By Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Experience the wonder of the holidays at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park with the annual Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition, on display from Nov. 26 through Jan. 5, 2020.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition. (Supplied/Johnny Quirin)
Guests from all over the world visit Meijer Gardens to experience 46 trees and displays representing countries and cultures from across the globe. The adored and enchanting Railway Garden, and the holiday wonderland that encompasses it, will once again loop through three lush indoor garden spaces, including the Grace Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse.
Guests are invited to ring in the holiday season with our most beloved winter exhibition.
This year, Meijer Gardens celebrates the signs of the season and highlights iconic symbols that are used in holiday festivities. Winter is a season rich with symbolism. On display are icons that evoke a deeper meaning and represent holiday cheer. Guests will celebrate both fact and folklore, past and present.
Each winter, Meijer Gardens transforms into a botanic wonderland with fresh poinsettias, orchids and amaryllis. The smell of evergreens as visitors enter the building and the sounds of carolers make it a place to reflect and enjoy the holiday season. Indoors and out, our grounds sparkle with 300,000 lights. 500 volunteers lovingly decorate the trees and displays.
The unique horticultural artistry of the Railway Garden complements the trolleys, trains and handcrafted buildings replicating 37 Grand Rapids landmarks. Visitors will find familiarity in the Fifth Third Ballpark replica building, with its light posts made of willow, as well as Royal Poinciana pods, Pomegranate, Japanese Fantail Willow and Bamboo that make up the iconic architecture of the Van Andel Institute replica building. Five landmarks from Grand Rapids sister cities around the world are also represented in the Railway Garden.
“This winter, Meijer Gardens is highlighting iconic symbols from around the world,” said Steve LaWarre, Director of Horticulture at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “Guests will have the opportunity to explore the signs of the season with deeper meaning and find the commonalities shared within diverse cultures.”
Mainstays of the exhibition include the Germany tree, adorned with handmade glass ornaments and homemade springerle cookies, the England tree—with antique Christmas cards and mistletoe—and the beautiful Eid ul-Fitr display, which celebrates the end of Ramadan.
In many cultures, the holidays bring people together in distinct and memorable ways that are difficult to capture in a display. Meijer Gardens is once again presenting the wonderous original film, joy, that explores the diverse festive fabric that is holiday life across our local communities. This film will be shown continuously in the Hoffman Family Auditorium and is also available on the Meijer Gardens YouTube channel.
(Supplied/Dean VanDis)
A variety of family-friendly activities are offered throughout the exhibition. Exhibition activities include:
Extended Holiday Hours: Open until 9 p.m. on Dec. 17-21, 23, 26-28 and 30. (Please note Meijer Gardens is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day).
The Original Dickens Carolers: Tuesdays: Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10, 17 from 6-8 p.m.
Santa Visits: Tuesdays: Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10, 17 from 5-8 p.m.
Winter-Time Walks: (Dec. 3-Jan. 4, 2020), with preschoolers Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 11:15 a.m., and family and friends Saturdays at 11:15 a.m., with fee included with admission. Winter in the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden can be chilly, but fun! Bundle up and join us on an outdoor interactive discovery walk to investigate the Children’s Garden in new ways. We’ll explore different winter themes and gather in a cozy spot to learn about winter with stories, kid-friendly conversation and other activities.
Christmas and Holiday Themed Classes: Enjoy festive learning opportunities for adults and families. Fees apply.
Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions is made possible by made possible by Metro Health — University of Michigan Health, the Meijer Foundation, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Foundation, the Botanic and Sculpture Societies of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and Star 105.7. The Railway Garden is sponsored by Warner Norcross + Judd, Inc.
The Veterans Day panel at the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce’s WKTV Government Matters discussion heard from veteran Travis Snyder and others. (WKTV)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
Federal, state, county and city government leaders and representatives listened to veterans telling their inspiring stories and express their concerns about government services Monday, Nov. 11, as the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Government Matters Committee’s monthly forum was fittingly held at Kentwood’s AMVETS Post 23.
WKTV recorded the meeting, which also included some discussion on state government budget issues, and not is only rebroadcasting it on WKTV’s channels but also making it available on WKTV’s on-demand website (wktvlive.org).
The Government Matters meeting brings together representatives from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, Kent County commissioners, local Michigan state senators and representatives, as well as often representatives of Michigan’s U.S. senators and U.S. congressman who represent the Wyoming and Kentwood area.
The intergovernmental discussion hosted by the chamber focuses on issues that effect local residents, businesses — and veterans and their families.
For more information about the chamber and Government Matters visit southkent.org.
The meetings are on the second Monday of each month, starting at 8 a.m. WKTV Journal will produce a highlight story after the meeting. But WKTV also offers replays of the latest meeting on Wednesdays at 7 p.m., as well as on select Saturdays, on Comcast Cable Government Channel 26. For a highlight schedule of WKTV cable programs visit wktvjournal.org.
It’s that time of year again—time to start thinking about what boots you’ll wear when you’re trudging through snow, slopping through slush and traversing the ice.
Your feet are not immune from the effects of aging.
As we get older, our arches tend to collapse, causing our feet to get longer and wider. With seasonal footwear like winter boots, it’s easy to end up in the wrong size. Don’t assume you’re the same shoe size as last year.
“Getting measured is very important,” Dr. Buchanan said. “This is potentially a big issue as people do more shoe shopping online.”
2. Too small equals cold feet.
If your winter boots (or ski boots) are too tight or too small, your feet get cold faster, which can become a serious issue. There should be room for air to circulate within the boot.
When you go to be measured at a full-service shoe store, try to go mid-day or mid-afternoon. As the day goes on, our feet swell, so a shoe that fits at 9am might be very tight at 6pm.
3. Boots with any size heel do not mix with ice.
Take this advice straight from a doctor who sees a lot of ankle fractures and foot injuries from slips and falls on the ice.
“With a winter boot, a heel is dangerous because it’s more unstable,” Dr. Buchanan said. “You have to be very, very cautious.”
4. Good tread equals good traction.
Make sure your boots are going to grip the ground.
The flat, slippery sole of fashion boots can be treacherous in slippery outdoor winter conditions, Dr. Buchanan said. The best tread will be on boots that are marketed for outdoor winter walking.
5. Boots with a pointed toe might look good, but they’re not good for you.
Boots that come to a point at the toe increase the rate of foot problems for women.
A sharp-pointed boot pushes the toes together, increasing bunion deformities and pressure points on the foot, Dr. Buchanan said.
6. Wrap your feet in warmth.
A winter boot should have the appropriate liner to keep your feet warm and dry. Look for waterproof, wool or sheepskin liners.
7. Two socks are better than one.
To keep your feet warm during extended periods of time in cold
temperatures, consider wearing two pairs of thin socks rather than one
thick pair to help prevent blistering, Dr. Buchanan said.
8. Keep an eye on your kids’ boots during the winter.
Children’s feet grow so fast that something that fits in November might not fit in February. Add to this the fact that kids tend to push the limit of how long they stay outside in the cold, and it can be a recipe for disaster.
Make sure their boots are big enough for air to circulate and keep their feet warm.
9. Outdoor conditions call for outdoor boots.
Wear fashion boots inside, for shorter periods of time during which you will not do much walking. Before going outside, change into winter boots designed for outdoor use.
“It really becomes a question of function of the shoe,” Dr. Buchanan said.
10. Happy feet lead to a happy body.
Robbing your feet of the support and care they need can lead to bigger issues in your knees, hips and back.
Start with a firm foundation with your winter boots, and you can ward off other ailments, according to Dr. Buchanan.
This holiday season, the Holland Area Arts Council is reprising their partnership with Grand Rapids Ballet in two special performances for children ages 4 to 10 and their adult guests on Sunday, Nov. 17th. The gallery will be filled with the enchanting giggles of children as they experience the magic of music, dance and storytelling. Performances will be held at 12:30 and 2:30pm.
The Nutcracker Ballet Tea is a story-time brunch in a winter fairy-tale land of ballerinas, nutcrackers and toy soldiers. Members of Grand Rapids Ballet Junior Company will dance vignettes from The Nutcracker as Attila Mosolygo, Junior Company Artistic Director reads The Nutcracker story. The performance includes tea, delicious snacks and a box of treats for each child to enjoy.
Children live in a world of imagination and play. The line between reality and pretend has not yet been drawn. They involve themselves in performance physically, mentally and emotionally, and so the Arts Council is excited to expose the very young to live performance featuring other young performers.
Partnership with Grand Rapids Ballet, who provides the dancers in costume, makes this event truly special.
Tickets for the Nutcracker Ballet Tea are on sale now. Admission is $35 per ticket. Children 10 and under get in for $15 each.
Tickets to Grand Rapids Ballet’s The Nutcracker Dec. 13-15 and 20-22 performances at DeVos Performance Hall may be purchased online at grballet.com or by calling (616) 454-4771 x10.
Although the slopes might not be ready just yet, it’s never too early to begin preparing your body for ski season.
Here’s a look at the most common injuries and the best ways to prevent them:
Head injuries
Falls account for 75 to 85 percent of ski injuries, according to the American College of Sports Medicine, and nearly all ski-related head injuries are the result of falling.
The best way not to fall is “making sure you’re in shape,” said Jason Lazor, DO, who specializes in sports medicine for Spectrum Health Medical Group Orthopedics. To do that, start preparing weeks or months before you actually get on the slopes.
The time to start prepping for skiing is yesterday. Prepare your core, muscles and joints for the rigors of skiing and you’re less likely to injure yourself. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
“You don’t really want to ski yourself into shape,” Dr. Lazor suggested. “When you’re skiing, you’re putting a lot of forces on the body. …The body can best handle those forces when you’ve done some prepping.”
Dr. Lazor recommends a combination of stretching, cardiovascular training like running, cycling and/or swimming, and resistance training focused on the lower extremities to best prepare for ski season. In terms of weight and resistance training, he suggests focusing on quads, hamstrings, abdomen and pelvic stabilizers.
Strong muscles and flexibility increase stability and muscle control, as well as decrease muscle fatigue, which all help to prevent serious falls.
“The more in-shape you are and the more body control you have, the better you can avoid accidents, and when accidents do happen, the better you can protect yourself,” Dr. Lazor said.
The other key for protecting your head is wearing a properly-fitted helmet. You’ll look great.
Sprains and fractures
Two other common injuries when skiing are sprains and fractures.
Collisions with objects and other skiers account for between 11 and 20
percent of ski injuries, according to the American College of Sports
Medicine, and are the primary cause of fractures.
Skiing “in control” is the best way to avoid those collisions, says Dr. Lazor. Almost every resort posts a Responsibility Code, which reminds skiers to keep an eye on the skiers in front of them, stop in safe and visible places, always look uphill while stopped, and other basic tips for avoiding collisions and ensuring safety.
It’s also important to know your limits, says Dr. Lazor, and not to ski on trails that are above your ability level.
Thumb and wrist injuries
About 30 to 40 percent of skiing injuries are to the upper extremities, according to the American College of Sports Medicine, and “the most vulnerable joint of the upper body is the thumb.”
Skier’s thumb, which is a tear in the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb, happens when skiers fall on an outstretched hand while still gripping their ski poles.
The best way to avoid this injury—which can lead to pain and weakness when grasping objects—is to avoid falling (see above advice). A second helpful tip is to use ski poles with straps rather than fitted grips.
“(Straps) are associated with fewer injuries,” the American College of Sports Medicine reports.
When to see a doctor
“In general, if you’re questioning an injury, go seek out help,” Dr. Lazor advised.
Signs of serious head injuries are people acting outside their normal character, behaving more emotionally than normal, a sudden sensitivity to light and lingering headaches.
Another advantage to working out before winter arrives, Dr. Lazor said, is people who work out can tell the difference between general soreness following physical activity and pain from an injury. He frequently reminds people that the Orthopedic Urgent Care clinic stands at the ready to assist them as they encounter any sort of orthopedic injuries—on or off the slopes.
Dr. Lazor has a simple mantra for those wondering when to see a doctor: “When in doubt, get checked out.”
Thanksgiving is coming up Nov. 28th, and whether you are looking for a turkey dinner, a special holiday weekend getaway, or some unique events to celebrate the day, West Michigan has you covered. You’ll find special shopping events, festivals, Thanksgiving Day races, buffets, ready-made dinner options, Small Business Saturday deals, light shows, and more throughout the month to help make your holiday one to remember.
Thanksgiving brunch, dinner, and buffets
If there’s one holiday you would associate withCrane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant and Winery in Fennville, it’s Thanksgiving. Their famous homemade fruit pies are a perfect addition to any gathering around your family table. Crane’s will take orders for baked pies for your Thanksgiving feast up until Tuesday, Nov. 26th for a Wednesday pick-up. This year, in addition to the traditional pumpkin and apple pies, they are offering an extremely limited new Pumpkin Praline Pie, featuring layers of house-made cream cheese and pumpkin filling in their famous pie crust topped with a praline crumble. If you’re thinking of adding it to your Thanksgiving order, call Crane’s at 269.561.2297 to place your order before they run out.
Let Muskegon’s SE4SONS Gastropub create your Thanksgiving dinner. Chef Jeremy and his staff will prepare a wonderful meal, complete with all the fixings, cooking and reheating instructions, and a food thermometer. Choose your menu and place your order by Nov. 22nd and pick up your Thanksgiving meal Wednesday, Nov. 27th between 2-4pm.
Let RedWater Restaurant Group handle the cooking this Thanksgiving. Enjoy salads, roasted turkey, carved ham, prime rib or sirloin, other entrees, side dishes, desserts, and more at one of six available Thanksgiving buffets throughout Grand Rapids and Holland. Reservations are limited with seating every half hour. Visit www.redwaterrestaurantgroup.com/ for more information, or call the restaurant of your choice to reserve your spot. RedWater Restaurant locations include Cork Wine & Grille in Cascade, FireRock Grille in Caledonia, Reds at Thousand Oaks in Grand Rapids, Rush Creek Bistro in Grandville, RedRock Grille in Holland, and Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant in Holland.
Thanksgiving weekend events
The Zeeland Turkey Trot 8K will begin at 8am Thanksgiving morning. The race begins in the middle of downtown Zeeland and will take runners through the downtown streets. This year’s event will be capped at 1,500 runners, so be sure to sign up in advance.
Muskegon’s 10th Annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot takes place on the Lakeshore Bike Trail and the Muskegon Community College Fitness Center beginning at 9am. This family friendly 5K is the perfect way to jump-start Thanksgiving morning. Get festive, wear a turkey hat, and earn that extra helping at Thanksgiving dinner.
Join the Grand Rapids Public Museum for the Planetarium Double Feature showing of The Queen Light Show and Dark Side: The Light Show in the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium on Friday, Nov. 29th at 7pm. Music enthusiasts will rock out to the music of Queen and Pink Floyd paired with stunning visuals on the planetarium dome. A cash bar will be available before the first show and during a short intermission. Tickets to the Planetarium Double Features will include both light shows, and are $8 for non-members, $4 for members.
Courtesy City of Zeeland
Light up the season during the official lighting of the South Haven community holiday tree at Holiday in the Park, Nov. 29th in Dyckman Park. Ice skating, karaoke, Santa Paws Pet Parade, luminaries, holiday treats, and more will jump-start the holiday spirit and make memories you can reminisce on for years to come.
This Small Business Saturday, the Downtown Holland merchants want to thank the entire community for supporting small business all year round! On Saturday, Nov. 30th, head to Downtown Holland to enjoy a day full of shopping small, fun giveaways, amazing contests, and free Small Business Saturday swag from American Express!
November events to kick off the holiday season
Shop till you drop along Grand Haven Main Street. Stay up late, shop the night away, and save big on all of your holiday gifts Friday,Nov. 8th, 7-10pm. Get your holiday shopping off to an early start and take advantage of the progressive discounts offered by participating merchants. Up to 20% off from 7-8pm, up to 25% off from 8-9pm, and up to 30% off from 9-10pm. Check with participating stores for details.
Get an early start to your holiday shopping… by staying up late. On Friday,Nov. 8th, participating Downtown Holland businesses will stay open late with amazing saving deals from 7-10pm. Make a night of it with dinner and drinks at one of Downtown Holland’s local restaurants or breweries and then get ready to shop and save big with discounts up to 30% for one night only.
Just because summer’s over doesn’t mean that you can’t fill your table with fresh, local and healthy food. The Holland Farmers Market is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am-3pm through Saturday, Dec. 21. Stop by to pick up everything you need to make your family’s favorite Thanksgiving dishes or to decorate your home for the holidays. You’ll find apples, squash, onions, potatoes, carrots, brussels sprouts, cheeses, meats, baked goods, and more at the Market, along with pumpkins, hay bales, corn shocks, wreaths, and greenery.
Nov. 9that 11am is Family Day at Krasl Art Center in St. Joseph. Family Days give adults and children time to learn and create side-by-side in these mini art activities at Krasl Art Center. Practice the art of decorating sugar cookies, while also getting to enjoy your delicious and ephemeral work of art.
The holiday season officially begins in Downtown Holland during the annual Holiday Open House on Saturday,Nov. 16 from 5-8pm. Stroll the decorated streets, enjoy the sounds of carolers singing, pose for a photograph with Santa and his favorite elf, visit the reindeer at the petting corral, and even sample a roasted chestnut. Participating businesses will have holiday merchandise on display and will be offering complimentary holiday refreshments while you shop. And don’t miss the official lighting of the Downtown Holland Christmas tree and the Christmas carol sing-along at the end of the night.
Yuletide classics trumpet the crisp air, welcoming families to holiday activities held during Dowagiac’s Christmas Open House in Southwest MichiganSaturday,Nov. 16th, from 10am to 2pm. Jolly Ole St. Nick greets children within the elegant indoor setting of Wood Fire Italian Trattoria. Enjoy the warm surroundings of the Pompeii Room, where children receive a gift from St. Nick.
Kick off the holiday season right by heading to Lansing on Friday Nov. 22 (the week before Thanksgiving) for Silver Bells in the City. The city will glow with thousands of lights, bringing together family and friends from across Michigan and beyond. The Electric Light Parade, Silver Bells Village, lighting of the State Christmas Tree, fireworks over the Capitol dome, and musical entertainment are all part of this Lansing tradition.
Courtesy St. Joseph Today
The Muskegon Museum of Art Festival of Trees returns Nov. 20th through Dec. 1st for its 15th year as a community holiday tradition. Professionally-designed themed trees and décor will be available for purchase through silent auction over the 11 days of the Festival. Raffles, music, holiday shopping, and special events will add to the fun. Special events include the popular Teddy Bear Breakfast, visits with Santa, Deck Your Halls decorating demo workshop, a holiday concert with Max & Ruth Bloomquist and Julia and the Greensides, Family Day, and Senior Day. Festival admission is $10 for adults, $5 for Museum members, $3 for children 3-17 years old, and free for children under 3. An All-Festival Pass is available for $15. The Muskegon Museum of Art Festival of Trees is open daily 10am-5pm, Sundays noon-5pm. MMA will be closed Thanksgiving day.
Experience an authentic European open-air Christmas market filled with handcrafted holiday items, delicious food, and artisan demonstrations at Holland’s Kerstmarkt 8th Street Marketplace. Open Fridays and Saturdays Nov. 23rd-Dec. 14th.
Keyed to the music of the holiday season, Let It Snow light show at Grand Rapids Public Museum features a variety of festive classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee. It includes a stunning multimedia finale by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The soundtrack is visually enhanced with thematic animation, laser imagery, and special effects. Great for all ages, especially families, the show runs Nov. 29th through Jan. 5th.
The Zeeland City Christmas tree and Magical Christmas Parade bring the holiday season downtown on Dec. 2nd beginning at 6:15pm.
In 2017, more than 85,000 people were treated in U.S. emergency rooms, doctors’ offices and clinics for injuries related to luggage. Know your limits before you pack that suitcase. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)
With holiday travel comes the risk of injury from toting heavy luggage.
In 2017, more than 85,000 people were treated in U.S. emergency rooms, doctors’ offices and clinics for injuries related to luggage, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
“Hurting your neck, back, or shoulders can put you out of commission for a long time,” Dr. Charla Fischer, an American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons spokesperson and orthopedic spine surgeon, said in an academy news release.
“You can prevent that by packing lightly, using sturdy luggage with wheels and handles, and using good form when carrying or lifting bags,” she suggested.
Here are some luggage safety tips, courtesy of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Don’t buy luggage that’s too heavy or bulky when empty. Try to place items in a few smaller bags instead of one large one. When lifting luggage, stand alongside it and bend at the knees, lifting the luggage with your leg muscles. Once lifted, hold luggage close to your body.
Don’t twist when lifting and carrying luggage. Point your toes in the direction you’re going and turn your entire body in that direction. Don’t carry bulky luggage for long periods of time. When possible, use the airline’s baggage service when you have heavy luggage.
Carry luggage in both hands, rather than one hand off to the side. This can decrease stress to the spine and reduce the risk of developing elbow problems.
Carry, don’t drag, rolling luggage when climbing stairs.
If you’re using a backpack, it should have two padded and adjustable shoulder straps to equally balance the weight. Pack heavier items low and towards the center.
When using a duffel or shoulder bag, switch sides often.
The family pet doesn’t have to miss out on the family vacation. Here are a few ideas of places to stay and fun things to do with your furry friend in West Michigan. Find more pet-friendly travel information in the Carefree Travel Guide.
Pet-friendly travel in the south region
No need to leave Fido at home during your nextColdwater Country getaway. Several local hotels, including the Coldwater Inn, are pet-friendly.
South Haven has become an extremely popular destination for pets, so many businesses cater to pet owners and their furry friends. For lodging, check into theSun ‘n Sand Resort or theKal-Haven Outpostfor unique lodging experiences.Comfort Suites is also accommodating to pets.
Looking for a vacation rental home? Check out Lakeshore Lodging for their select pet-friendly properties. Once you arrive, treat your dog to a beach day on one of South Haven’s pet-friendly beaches. Outdoor seating is also available at select restaurants downtown.
Your four-legged friend is welcome on Journeyman Distillery’s outdoor deck, overlooking the 18-hole Welter’s Folly putting green in Three Oaks.
Lakeshore Lodging has pet-friendly vacation rental townhomes, condos, cottages, and cabins near the gorgeous Lake Michigan lakeshore in the Saugatuck, Douglas, and Fennville area.
Pet-friendly travels in central region
Historic White Pine Village is open to dogs and people alike. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am until 5pm (last tour tickets at 3:30pm), the Village is situated on 12 acres with 30 buildings and/or exhibits to see. It generally takes about two hours to walk through. Dogs must be on a leash and owners are expected to clean up any messes. For more information please visit the Mason County Historical Society website.
Holland is a very pet-friendly town. The walkable downtown area is perfect for taking a stroll and grabbing a brew while enjoying the atmosphere of a bustling downtown on an outdoor patio with your pup. There are also many local pet-friendly parks for walking, running, hiking, and playing, such as Windmill Island Gardens. Pet-friendly Holland Hotels include Best Western Plus, Microtel Inn & Suites,Residence Inn, and more. Contact the Holland Visitors Bureau for your Guide to Dog-friendly Holland.
Traveling in Mecosta County?The Country Inn and Suites in Big Rapids allows pets to stay overnight for a fee of $10 per night, per pet. More lodging accommodations in Mecosta County can be found under the “Lodging” tab on Mecosta County’s website. If you’re looking to pamper your pet, there are multiple venues throughout Mecosta County offering things from homemade treats to pet grooming. For a more detailed list of places in Mecosta County that allow pets, visit the “Pet Friendly Amenities” page.
Muskegon County also loves pets. With one of Michigan’s best dog beaches and a new downtown Muskegon dog park — plus an assortment of pet-friendly accommodations — your pet is welcome to Visit Muskegon too! Information on pet-friendly dining in Muskegon can be found at the Visit Muskegon site.
Find pet-travel tips or your new travel companion at Pet.A.Pawlooza, July 27th in Grand Rapids. Hosted by Michele’s Rescue, Pet.A.Pawlooza is a collaborative community event promoting education, resources and adoptions with vendors that are made up of shelters, rescues, wildlife rehabs, veterinarians, boarders, groomers and pet-related products.
Pet-friendly travel north/UP region
From canine-approved lodging that includes the newest all-suite hotel to water bowls at sidewalk seating and a park that begs for a game of fetch, leaving your best friend behind doesn’t have to be a part of the vacation plan inMarquette.
Your pooch is welcome to bring you along to the Petoskey Area where you’ll both be welcome to stay in specified rooms throughout the area, including full-service resorts Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls and Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs. The Terrace Inn & 1911 Restaurant in Bay View offers a pet-friendly apartment unit. Chain facilities such as Holiday Inn Express & Suites Petoskey as well as locally owned hotels with indoor pools like Apple Tree Inn in Petoskey, Odawa Hotel of Petoskey, and Stafford’s Crooked River Lodge & Suites in Alanson. Stop by Ruff Life Pet Outfitters in downtown Petoskey for everything to keep your pup happy. Zoll Street Beach in Harbor Springs is a great place to cool off and play. And most parks and trails in the Petoskey Area offer a terrific place to sniff and stroll (while leashed, please).
At the Terrace Inn in Bay View, Petoskey, the former downstairs ice cream parlor has been converted to a pet-friendly apartment. It has a queen bedroom, living room with wicker chairs, comfy red leatherette sofa, furnished kitchen, full bath, and private entrance that opens to the garden. There is an outdoor pet-friendly patio too, with a gate so you can tie up your pet at the table (or not if the gate is closed). The apartment can be rented year round by the weekend, for a week, or a month.
Shanty Creek Resort recommends bringing your precious pup with and stopping into nearby Meadowpond Pet Resort. Just a few minutes down the road from Shanty Creek in Bellaire, Meadowpond is a full-service resort for dogs offering indoor/outdoor suites. In addition to being open 24/7, Meadowpond guests can enjoy the in-and-out privileges allowing Fido to join the family on day trips to nearby Torch Lake and other fun area destinations.
Bring the entire family to Mackinac Island this season with the Mission Point Pooch at the Point package, which offers accommodations in their newly renovated guest rooms, a welcome amenity for your pet, round-trip ferry tickets, and much more. Resting on the sunrise side of Mackinac Island, Mission Point is a great pet-friendly summertime retreat located just a short stroll from historic downtown. Boasting 18 acres of lakefront property on the sprawling shores of Lake Huron, Mission Point offers genuine hospitality and relaxed elegance with on-site dining and recreation experiences.
Drummond Island Resortis pet-friendly and has large, open green spaces for dogs to roam free.
The Traverse City Econo Lodge loves canine guests. Call in advance to ensure the availability of a dog-friendly room. Pet-friendly accommodations keep you in ground-floor rooms near the exits, so it is easier to go out for a walk. And don’t forget to get your dog a treat when you check in.
The City of Kentwood has a full day of activities planned for its annual Fourth of July Celebration, including a pancake breakfast, 5K race, parade, carnival and live music, leading up to fireworks at dusk.
“Kentwood’s Fourth of July celebration seems to grow and improve every year providing a great variety of activities the entire family can enjoy,” said Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley. “We welcome our friends and neighbors to join us in Kentwood as we celebrate our nation’s independence.”
To start the day off right, a pancake breakfast will be offered at Kentwood Fire Station 1, 4775 Walma Ave. SE, a new location this year. The $5 breakfast will be served from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. and include pancakes and sausage. Kids who are five years old or younger may enjoy breakfast for free.
Also beginning at 7:30 a.m., racers of all ages will gather across from Fire Station 1 for registration and packet pick-up for the NN Mobile Solutions 5K Race & Fun Walk. The chip-timed race will begin 8:30 a.m., with the start and finish line on Walma Avenue SE near Kentwood City Hall at 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Using the same course route as last year, which can be viewed online, runners will loop through neighborhoods before coming back on the East West Trail to finish.
Hundreds of spectators along the race route are anticipated. For the safety of all participants, no baby strollers, roller skates, dogs or bicycles will be allowed on the course. Awards will be given for the overall fastest male and female racers; medals will be distributed at the finish line after results are posted.
Following the race will be the annual parade at 9:30 a.m. The parade route also remains the same as last year, starting at Crestwood Middle School, 2674 44th St. SE. The parade will travel south on Walma Avenue SE to Breton Road SE, turn west on 52nd Street SE and end at Challenger Elementary School.
Kentwood will host its best carnival yet with bigger rides than before from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at City Hall, another new location from years past. In addition to a variety of rides, the carnival will feature giant inflatables, games and other fun activities for kids. Individual tickets will cost $1 each. Wristbands will be available for $20. The number of tickets required for each attraction will vary.
City Hall will also host the evening celebration from 4 to 10 p.m. Community booths, a beer tent and food trucks will line the lawn behind City Hall. A variety of bands, including the BareNaked 90’s, Asamu Johnson and the Associates of the Blues and Main Street Dueling Pianos, will take the stage to perform live music leading up to the fireworks show at dusk. The fireworks will be viewable from City Hall and surrounding areas.
Shortly before the fireworks go off, sections of Breton Avenue and Walma Avenue near City Hall will be temporarily closed to allow pedestrians to safely cross the street and view the show. Those sections will then be reopened about 30 minutes after the finale. If guests who are parked at City Hall or the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch need to leave while the road closures are in effect, they can either turn left onto Walma and take the roundabout out to Breton heading north, or turn left out of the library’s parking lot onto Breton heading south. The Kentwood Police Department and volunteers will be on hand to help direct traffic.
Kentwood Parks and Recreation is seeking volunteers for the Fourth of July Celebration. Those interested are encouraged to visit here or call 616-656-5270 to sign up. More information about Independence Day activities in Kentwood can be found at kentwood.us/july4.
The Easter bunny will be making a return visit to Kentwood on April 20. (WKTV File Photo)
By City of Kentwood
The Easter Bunny will make an early appearance in the City of Kentwood this year to meet and enjoy breakfast with families on Saturday, April 20, at the Kentwood Activities Center.
A pancake breakfast with juice and coffee will be served from 9-11 a.m. When families arrive, there will be music to enjoy and an art project for children.
An opportunity to take meet and take photos with the bunny will be offered from 10-11 a.m. Guests are asked to bring their own camera for pictures.
“We are delighted to welcome spring with our ‘Breakfast with the Bunny’ event this year,” said Val Romeo, director of Kentwood Parks and Recreation. “All are invited to enjoy hot cakes and activities with Peter Cottontail.”
Tickets are $5 in advance or $7 at the door. Breakfast is free for kids age 5 or younger.
The Kentwood Activities Center is located at 355 48th St. SE. More information about the event is available online at this link.
The City of Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
On the national holiday for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Monday. Jan. 21, the City of Kentwood stocked the shelves of its Little Free Pantry with a donation drive to collect food supplies for community members in need.
But the city is looking for support of its pantry all year long.
The city is seeking community partners willing to place a Kentwood Little Free Pantry collection bin for canned goods and other non-perishable items at their organization or business. Those interested in accepting a collection bin should contact the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department at 616-656-5270 or eRecreation@kentwood.us .
Located in the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, the Kentwood Little Free Pantry is similar in operation to a Little Free Library: take an item (or items) when needed and leave an item when you can. No applications are necessary. No questions are asked.
More information about Kentwood Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available online at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry .
The community came out in support of the City of Kentwood’s collection of food stuffs for its Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)
By WKTV Staff ken@wktv.org
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on the national holiday in his honor, the City of Kentwood stocked the shelves of its Little Free Pantry on Monday, Jan. 21.
The city collected canned goods and other non-perishable items at three locations: the Family Fare on Kalamazoo Avenue, Celebration Cinema on 1506 Eastport Drive, and the City of Kentwood Parks and Recreation Department — the food pantry is located at the department’s activities center.
At the end of the day, the Parks and Recreation Department’s Facebook page reported on the results: “Thank you to all who generously donated to the Little Free Pantry today! Our pantry is full again! We collected $68 and more items than could fit on the shelves. Your contributions will help a number of families in our area.”
Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley visited Founder and Senior Leader Kathy El-Ali and Outreach Director Max Johnson at The Well Church to collect an abundance of donations for Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry. (Supplied/City of Kentwood)
Mayor Stephen Kepley also did a little collecting himself, as he visited The Well Church on Monday to collect donations for the pantry. The city’s Facebook page commented on the church’s effort: “We are so appreciative of your generosity. The support of community partners like you helps ensure those who need help can find it year-round.”
Mayor Kepley, in previously supplied material, commented on the community support the city receives for the pantry and other community needs.
“Kentwood is a compassionate community which supports practical acts of generosity by encouraging neighbors to help neighbors especially in times of need,” Mayor Kepley said. “Since 2017, Kentwood’s Little Free Pantry has assisted countless families to such an extent that the shelves become empty on a weekly basis.”
Located in the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, the Kentwood Little Free Pantry is similar in operation to a Little Free Library: take an item (or items) when needed and leave an item when you can. No applications necessary. No questions are asked.
More information about Kentwood Little Free Pantry, including a list of suggested donations, is available online at kentwood.us/littlefreepantry .
Every year, many of the 75 percent of smokers who want to quit find motivation in getting a fresh start in the New Year.
Libby Stern, LMSW, TTS, knows that quitting smoking can be a challenge and, for many, it may take several attempts to finally succeed.
“A lot of times it’s like a practice approach,” she said. “It’s not uncommon to make six or seven attempts to quit.”
If you’re seriously thinking about kicking the habit once and for
all, here are a few things that Stern, a smoking cessation expert at Spectrum Health Healthier Communities, suggests will help you get off on the right foot and stay on your path.
Remember what the QUIT acronym stands for:
Quit date. Set a quit date within two to three
weeks. This gives you time to get used to the idea and to make
preparations without allowing so much time that you forget about it.
Having an important date allows you to attach additional meaning to your
quit.
Use medication. Talk with your health care provider
about using a medication to help you quit. There are prescription
options like Chantix and Zyban as well as over-the-counter options like
nicotine replacement patches, gum and lozenges. Figure out what you
think will work for you and prepare yourself. Some medications will need
to be started a week or two ahead of time.
Identify your social support. Find a quit buddy or
someone who will support you along the way. It makes a huge difference
to have someone you can talk to about your quit smoking journey and get
their support and encouragement.
Talk to an educator or counselor. Counseling and/or
formal education can help you to identify your personal triggers and
develop new coping skills. Combining counseling with medications
significantly improves the likelihood of success.
Develop a quit plan for yourself. Keep in mind that, when you quit smoking, you have to change more than the smoking.
Identify how you can change your routine to make quitting easier. For instance, if you always wake up, make your coffee and smoke while you read the paper or watch TV, change it up. Maybe you skip the coffee and paper and go straight for the shower and off to work instead, getting your coffee at work where there is no smoking.
If driving and smoking poses a challenge, get some coffee stirrers, cinnamon toothpicks, sugar-free licorice sticks or lollipops and have them in the car for those times when you have a craving. Changes in your routine can make it easier for you, especially in the beginning.
As a former smoker, Stern knows quitting is hard, but not impossible. Sometimes, students even tell her it was not as difficult as they expected.
Her message to anyone hoping to quit: “There are more former smokers today than smokers. You can be one, too.”
Planning is the key, so make sure you plan ahead for the expected and unexpected. Educate yourself and consider medications that may help.
Only you can decide when you’re ready to quit, but when you are, remember that there are many resources to help you. You can do this—there are more former smokers today than smokers. You can be one, too.
It’s that time of year for residents of the northern states to drive south in search of warmth and sunshine, leaving the cold and snow behind. For others it’s time to take that long-awaited family road trip, escaping harsh weather for more mild conditions. No matter the distance or length of the road trip, what’s at the top of everyone’s list is arriving there safely. For individuals with diabetes, getting there safely becomes more than just safe driving.
For a person who is insulin-dependent, blood glucose level is paramount to the ability to drive safely. Experiencing a rapid drop in insulin levels (a severe hypoglycemic event) could possibly bring on symptoms of double vision and disorientation. Clearly problems for any driver behind the wheel.
For road trip safety, understand your physical health, chart your blood glucose levels frequently and don’t skip meals. Be prepared. Talk with your doctor about fast-acting glucose products that can be used in the event of an emergency. Your doctor and diabetic nurse educator are the best people to talk to regarding which glucose products are right for you.
Keep a glucose kit in your car at all times, it should be tolerant to warm and cold temperatures.
Before driving any distance be aware of your levels; think about how you are feeling, don’t be afraid to ask someone else to drive you if you’re feeling tired or stressed.
Carry your cell phone with pre-programmed numbers of 911 and family members in the case of an emergency.
Stop often, don’t skip meals, eat the right foods and sugars which will keep you active and alert.
As always, buckle-up, don’t text and drive and enjoy your road trip!
Michigan State University Extension recommends the following professional diabetes resources:
The holidays are always a time of year full of fun and a flurry of activities. Some people may be afraid that living in a senior community means missing out on some of the good times, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Assisted living communities have a lot of great ways to celebrate the holidays, from religious and spiritual services to festive activities and holiday outings.
We have put together a list of our favorite ways to celebrate the holidays, many of which are already happening in our Vista Springs communities. We’re wishing all of our community members joy this holiday season!
Trips to local churches or chapel
Many churches and other places of worship have special holiday
services that you may want to attend. Assisted living communities will
often organize trips to visit places, or if there is a service you want
to attend that doesn’t have a specially planned trip, speaking to your
event organizer can help you plan a visit.
Visits from local dance and music groups
Local dance companies, choirs, and bands have winter or Christmas
programs that they love to share. Many senior living communities like
Vista Springs will invite these groups to come and perform, so make sure
have get an event schedule so you don’t miss out on anything.
Pop-up vendors and shops
Pop-up shops and holiday vendors will often come visit communities
and bring the best of holiday shopping right to you! Not only does this
provide a great way to socialize with the rest of your community, but
you can get great deals on gifts for your family and friends all from
the comfort of your own front door. Usually these are one day events, so
if you plan on attending make sure to keep room on your schedule.
Craft projects
Ever wanted to make a pinecone wreath? A special ornament? A tiny
Christmas tree? Assisted living communities like Vista Springs have
these and any number of other fun craft projects
that you can take part in. Have a good time and feel like a kid again
while getting a little messy with glue and ribbons. Crafts are a great
way to get into the holiday spirit.
Community decorating
Most senior living communities will ask residents to help them put up
decorations around the common spaces. Decorate trees with ornaments,
hang garland, and put out table centerpieces to give the entire space
that homey holiday feel. Some communities also have decorating contests
to see who can make their doorway the most festive, so you can go all
out and show your decorating skills to everyone.
Cookie decorating
Everyone likes cookies, and during the holidays that’s especially
true. Assisted living communities can have cookie decorating activities
so you can have fun and eat your work. If there aren’t cookies, see if
there are any gingerbread house constructing or decorating activities
planned in your community.
Trips to music performances
When local groups can’t come and perform at your community, you can
get a chance to go and see them someplace else. Many assisted living
communities, Vista Springs included, will plan trips to go see concerts
and other live music performances wherever their normal venue is. Enjoy a
nice trip out and listen to good music to help you keep in the holiday
spirit.
Outings to local events
Similar to trips to listen to music, assisted living
communities can have planned outings to event spaces that are holding
holiday displays or special gatherings to celebrate the holidays.
Parades, light displays, or house and garden tours are all examples of
events that your community can have plans to see. One of our favorites
is the Christmas light show at Fifth-Third Ballpark in Grand Rapids.
Visits to tree farms
Another fun place to visit over for the holidays are Christmas tree
farms. While you might not be planning on taking a tree home with you,
there are plenty of other ways to enjoy yourself and get some fresh air.
Look at local crafts and handmade decorations, and relax with the smell
of pine trees with other community members.
Community group performances
Many assisted living communities have their own choirs and other
groups that put on holiday performances. Maybe you are even part of one!
These ensembles have put a lot of work into their programs, so make
sure to show up and support your community members as they entertain.
Movie viewings and game nights
Watch your favorite holiday movies or play fun board games with other
community members. While you might have movie or game nights other
times of the year, during the holidays there are often special treats
like cocoa and snacks to help you get in the holiday mood and get the
most out of community gatherings.
Dinner parties
Almost all communities will have a dinner party planned where you can
invite family and friends to come and visit you at your home and
celebrate together. Most of these parties happen early on in December,
so if you have family members that you won’t be able to see later on in
the year this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some special time
together.
The festivities of the holidays can be found anywhere, especially in your assisted living community. With all these activities, you can have holiday fun every day of the month.
The holidays are a great time for packaging and parties, but there can be a lot of waste to be recycled properly. (Pixabay)
By Kent County Department of Public Works
Wrapping paper, bubble wrap and Christmas lights are just a few items that should not go in recycling bins this holiday season, Kent County Department of Public Works announced today as part of its 2018 Holiday Waste Guide.
“While the holiday season is a time for gift giving, holiday parties and family dinners, it’s also the me of year when our waste drastically increases – almost by 25 percent nationwide,” said Lauren Westerman, Kent County DPW’s Resource Recovery educator. “We’re asking everyone to be aware of what can go into their recycling bins this holiday season and take steps to reduce their waste, recycle and donate old items.”
The Kent County DPW estimates that by the end of 2018 residents will have recycled 500,000 Christmas trees-worth of paper, enough aluminum to make 74,000 tabletop Menorahs and steel to make 53,000 Radio Flyer wagons. To help reduce and recycle even more waste this holiday season, Kent County DPW encourages residents to follow these dos and don’ts:
Do bring reusable shopping bags. Remember to bring reusable bags when Christmas shopping or going to any store, not just the grocery store.
DO NOT recycle wrapping or tissue paper. Wrapping and tissue paper cannot be recycled because it’s low-quality paper that paper mills can’t use to make new paper products. Reduce use of wrapping paper this holiday season by using other creative materials to wrap gifts, such as old maps, colorful cloth or old gift bags.
DO separate packaging. From plastic to cardboard to strings, it’s important to separate packaging materials before recycling them. For example, if a toy comes in a plastic package that also has cardboard, make sure to separate both materials before recycling.
DO NOT throw away electronics. Before throwing away old appliances, gaming systems or other electronics, visit Kent County DPW’s recycling guide.
DO recycle glass bottles. Remember to rinse all glass bottles before placing them in a recycling bin.
DO NOT recycle artificial Christmas trees. Instead, donate them to thrift stores. For those who put up real trees, remember to remove all ornaments, tinsel and other decorations before taking them to a local drop off site.
The Kent County DPW also reminds residents to safely dispose of hazardous materials such as reworks, cooking oil, propane tanks and ammunition on by taking these items to a local drop-o center for safe disposal. These items should never be placed in a trash or recycling bin. For drop-off locations, visit reimaginetrash.org .
As the Grand Rapids Ballet likes to say: “It isn’t the holidays without ‘The Nutcracker’.” And for one local youth, it will be a holiday to remember because she is part of the show.
The Grand Rapids Ballet is in the midst of its annual run of “The Nutcracker”, with final performances Dec. 21-23. As the ballet was preparing for the performances, WKTV Journal caught up with one of the youth dancers in the performances, Kentwood’s Cecilia Nguyen.
Grand Rapids Ballet’s production includes, according to the Ballet, “the world-famous design of Chris Van Allsburg, Broadway-quality sets by Tony Award winner Eugene Lee, festive choreography by Val Caniparoli, and live music from Grand Rapids Symphony, all come together to create pure magic.”
“The Nutcracker” opened Dec. 14 and will continue this weekend, Friday-Sunday, at ther DeVos Performance Hall, downtown Grand Rapids. For more information and tickets visit GRBallet.com .
“This is a way for the families to take a break from their worries and just enjoy the holiday season,” Santa said.
Santa knew just how to hold the tiny little ones he visited. Behind the beard is Al Jones, MD, a retired neonatal medicine specialist.
He has donned his fur-trimmed red jacket, hat and pants with a broad-buckled belt for the past six years to help create these moments.
Santa’s helper is Amy Nyberg. She is the March of Dimes family support program coordinator at the children’s hospital who makes this visit happen each year.
“Families love it,” Nyberg said. “Santa comes and they are able to hit that milestone and have that memory of baby’s first photo taken with Santa.”
Amy, also dressed in fur-trimmed red, gives candy canes and small toys to young siblings of the NICU babies. She arranges for a professional Santa portrait to be sent to the families.
Raelynn Rhodes wore a special outfit for her photo with Santa. Her mom, Morgan, found the perfect fit, an American Girl doll ensemble complete with ice skates.
Parker Davis’ mom, Megan Alexander, said they woke up bright and early to make sure they didn’t miss Santa’s visit.
“We didn’t expect him until after Christmas,” Alexander said of her little preemie. “He’s our little Christmas baby.”
When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.
- Susan Heller
Getting out of town for holidays
Even if the weather is great, you’d want to give yourself extra time flying out of Grand Rapids during the holiday season. (Supplied/Ford International Airport)
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is preparing for a busy holiday travel season and is offering these helpful travel reminders. Due to increased passenger traffic, parking lot demands will be greater, and airport facilities are expected to be busy. Also, due to current airport construction, along with the busy holiday traffic, lines could be longer than normal. For the complete story, click here.
Healthy holidays; ya, you can really to it!
It is easy to over-eat this time of the year. But it does not have to be that way. (Supplied/MSU Extension)
As the days draw shorter and temperatures decrease, we know that the holiday season is upon us. Not only do we usually indulge ourselves during this time, but we also become less physically active. But it does not have to be that way. For the complete story, click here.
And just settle in with a good book
“A Cup of Christmas Tea”, by Tom Hegg. (Supplied/ Kent District Library)
Love reading Christmas poems and stories each year, a new one is a great gift to give yourself or a loved one a great gift by checking out: “A Cup of Christmas Tea”, by Tom Hegg. For the complete story, click here.
Fun Fact: Good to fly on Christmas Day
On average, you’re less likely to be delayed if you’re traveling the week before Christmas or on the holiday itself, the data shows. December 25 has actually had the lowest percentage (18 percent) of delayed flights over the last five years,. (Source) And, you know, you are all in the same boat … er, airport.
