Category Archives: Non-Profits

Sundance Favorite “Best of Enemies” next up in SCA’s Real to Reel Series

Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , ,

R2R Best of EnemiesFeatured at the Sundance Film Festival and slated as a contender for the 2015 Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, Best of Enemies is up next in the Real to Reel series at Saugatuck Center for the Arts (400 Culver Street) Thursday, November 19, 7:00 p.m.

The New York Post calls the film, “wickedly entertaining,” and Rolling Stone says, “modern television starts here.”

In the summer of 1968, television news changed forever. Dead last in the ratings, ABC hired two towering public intellectuals to debate each other during the Democratic and Republican national conventions. William F. Buckley, Jr. was a leading light of the new conservative movement. A Democrat and cousin to Jackie Onassis, Gore Vidal was a leftist novelist and polemicist.

Armed with deep-seated distrust and enmity, Vidal and Buckley believed each others political ideologies were dangerous for America. Like rounds in a heavyweight battle, they pummeled out policy and personal insult – cementing their opposing political positions. Their explosive exchanges devolved into vitriolic name-calling. It was unlike anything TV had ever broadcast, and all the more shocking because it was live and unscripted. Viewers were riveted. ABC News’ ratings skyrocketed. And a new era in public discourse was born – a highbrow blood sport that marked the dawn of pundit television as we know it today.

SCA-Logo-newClick here to see the official trailer.

General admission is $5/Members; $7/Future Members.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts, located at 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck, is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a more vibrant lakeshore community in West Michigan and beyond. For more information visit www.sc4a.org or call 269-857-2399.

Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society and Museum

Area Education, Non-Profits, , ,

ShipWreckMuseumBy: Dianna Higgs Stampfler

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society was founded in 1978 by a group of divers, teachers and educators to commence exploration of historic shipwrecks in eastern Lake Superior, near Whitefish Point in Michigan’s scenic Upper Peninsula.

Today, this non-profit organization operates two museum sites on historic properties: The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum & Whitefish Point Light Station, Whitefish Point; and the U.S. Weather Bureau Building, Soo Locks Park, Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan. The Society currently has 1,477 active members.

The Shipwreck Society is a diverse organization that regularly publishes a newsletter, video/DVDs, booklets, and commissioned works of maritime art. Using its 47-foot Research Vessel David Boyd, the Society actively searches and documents historic shipwrecks each year during the diving season. The Society engages a team of highly experienced volunteer technical divers.

The Shipwreck Museum is open to the public seasonally from May 1 to October 31. In 2012, museum visitation was nearly 63,000 people.

For a totally unique experience, consider an overnight stay in the restored 1923 Coast Guard Lifeboat Station Crew Quarters. With five themed guest rooms, you can take a step back in time and imagine the life along the shores of Lake Superior. As a guest, you also receive admission to the museum and light station, a discount in the museum store and a one year membership to the Great Lakes Historical Society, as well as continental breakfast in the morning. Stays are offered April through November (although in April and November, the museum itself isn’t open).

Edmund FitzgeraldThe Society is regarded as a leader in the field of underwater exploration and shipwreck documentation on the Upper Great Lakes. The most noted shipwreck in the Great Lakes history took place 17 miles northwest of Whitefish Point, 40 years ago this month.

The S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald was conceived as a business enterprise of the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company of Milwaukee, Wisconsin—who contracted with Great Lakes Engineering Works of Ecorse, Michigan to construct a “maximum sized” Great Lakes bulk carrier. Her keel was laid on August 7, 1957 as Hull No. 301, according to The Society’s website.

Named after the President and Chairman of the Board of Northwestern Mutual, Fitzgerald was launched June 8, 1958 at River Rouge, Michigan. Northwestern Mutual placed her under permanent charter to the Columbia Transportation Division of Oglebay Norton Company, Cleveland, Ohio. At 729 feet and 13,632 gross tons she was the largest ship on the Great Lakes, for 13 years, until 1971.

GordonLightfootOn November 10, 1975, the gales of November kicked up in a furious way taking with it the mighty Edmund Fitzgerald and its entire crew of 29. The legend of the Edmund Fitzgerald remains the most mysterious and controversial of all shipwreck tales heard around the Great Lakes. Her story is surpassed in books, film and media only by that of the Titanic.

Over the years, three underwater expeditions to the wreck site have been conducted by The Society—in 1989, 1994 and 1995. During that last excursion, at the request of family members of her crew, Fitzgerald’s 200-pound bronze bell was recovered (on July 4). This expedition was conducted jointly with the National Geographic Society, Canadian Navy, Sony Corporation and Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. The bell is now on display in the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum as a memorial to her lost crew.

Canadian folksinger Gordon Lightfoot inspired popular interest in this vessel with his 1976 ballad, “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.” In this song, he sings “In a rustic old hall in Detroit they prayed, In the Maritime Sailors’ Cathedral. The church bell chimed till it rang twenty-nine times, For each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald.” This church was founded by a woman, Julia Anderson, whose will established it in 1842. Her wishes were to have thiMarinersChurchs stone church built in downtown Detroit, which is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Each year, The Society hosts a memorial service on November 10 to honor those who lost their lives on the Edmund Fitzgerald four decades ago.

Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society & Museum
18335 N Whitefish Point Rd
Paradise, MI 49768
(906) 492-3747
www.ShipwreckMuseum.com

This article was republished with permission from Dianna at Promote Michigan. We do our best to help with the promotion of the great State of Michigan!

Local Business Helps Feed the Hungry in West Michigan

Local Business, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

Feeding_America_logo.svgjanice_limbaughBy: Janice Limbaugh

The owner of Eastbrook Auto Wash and Eastbrook Oil and Lube, Paul Coffman is dedicated to this community; most especially to those families in West Michigan who are going hungry.

“Everyone should be able to have food on the table not just during the holidays, but all days of the year,” Coffman says.

EastbrookAuto2As a result, Eastbrook Auto Wash and Eastbrook Oil & Lube are holding a month-long food drive and fundraising event for Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank. Now through November 30, these businesses will be collecting canned, boxed and bagged food staples, toiletry staples, pet food supplies and monetary donations to help offset the fight against hunger in West Michigan. And yes, there is hunger in West Michigan.

Each year it is estimated that over 492,000 people receive food from Feeding America West Michigan. Since 1981 this charity has served families in 40 counties by distributing 1,100 hunger-relief agencies.

“To be able to support this charity during a time when having food on the table has such a strong advertising message, yet others have nothing for their table, is not lost on us,” says Coffman.

EastbrookAutoTo support the cause, Coffman decided that customers who make monetary or supply donations to Feeding America West Michigan during business hours (Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) will receive discounted car washes and oil changes. Every dollar donated to Feeding America West Michigan will be multiplied by the food bank by 10, turning the donation into four meals for someone in need.

The most needed items for the food drive include: jars of peanut butter, canned beef stew, tuna, chicken, fish and meat, macaroni and cheese, rice, pasta, canned vegetables and fruits, beans of all kinds and toiletries.

For more information about the event, contact Jana Schrier at eastbrookautowash@gmail.com or visit www.eastbrookautowash.com.

Secrets in Healthy Soil Offer Hope for the Future

Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Non-Profits, , , ,

CornfieldThe National Resources Conversation Service is putting together a PSA campaign to help with environmental solutions for healthy soil.

By: Ron Nichols

We’re looking at some pretty big challenges here on planet Earth.

World population is growing and will likely reach 9 billion by the year 2050. Every day, through development and degradation, we lose more of the farmland we need to grow our food. Across the globe, water and other resources are becoming increasingly scare. And extreme weather events like flooding and drought are adding to our food production challenges.

When it comes to growing low-cost, nutritious food, all Americans should understand that without healthy soil there are no farms, and without farms there is no food.

According to a new analysis by the American Farmland Trust, 41 million acres of rural land has been permanently lost in the last 25 years to highways, shopping malls, and urban sprawl. Of that amount, 23 million acres (an area the size of Indiana) was agricultural land.

The rate of recent farmland loss has been an astonishing one acre per minute.

CattleHealthy Farms, Healthy Food

Most Americans don’t think a lot about where their food comes from. They go to supermarkets, put items in their carts, take their groceries home and prepare their meals.

America’s cities sprang up on some of our most productive farmland. Today, the farms closest to our urban areas produce an astounding 91% of our fruit and 78% of our vegetables, but they remain the most threatened. One of the ways we can ensure the survival of these important farms is to improve the productivity and profitability of our farms – beginning with the soil.

Healthy Soil: The Foundation of Healthy Farms

In spite of increasing food production and environmental challenges, there’s a big solution that’s right under our feet – in healthy soil.

National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is working with America’s farmers and ranchers to improve the health and function of their soil through soil health management practices like no-till, cover crops, diverse cropping rotations and managed grazing. These techniques are helping make farms of all sizes more productive and profitable. Farmers with healthy soil not only grow healthier crops, they also harvest a wide range of environmental benefits off the farm.

soilRole of Public Education

The “Unlock the Secrets in the Soil” is a new campaign by USDA’s NRCS. Its purpose is to help farmers and ranchers build healthier, more productive and more resilient soils that are able to sequester more carbon and store more water – all while providing healthy food and keeping our environment clean.

The campaign offers a new hope in healthy soil –  for all of us.

Through a series of 30 and 15 – second public service messages, urban consumers will become more aware of the roll soil health plays in their food, in their lives, and in their future. In rural areas, these messages will connect with actual farmers, ranchers and landowners who can adopt soil health management systems – which is good for the farm, the farmer’s bottom line, and for our planet.

For more information about the hope in healthy soil, visit the NRCS website. To preview or download broadcast quality versions of the PSA’s, visit here.

Gilda’s ‘LaughFest’ Preparing for 2016 Festival

Community Health, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

LAUGHFEST_final_2Gilda’s LaughFest, the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter, announced that they are now accepting sign ups for its Community Showcases, 5k FUNderwear Run, and LaughFest Friends memberships.

Individuals of all ages, and groups of all sizes, are encouraged to apply for the Community Showcases. During LaughFest 2015, officials hosted more than 100 community showcases and other free events at various locations in downtown Grand Rapids, Lowell, and Holland. The categories for these showcases included stand-up comedy, music, short-film, sketch/improv, dance, and kids’ jokes. Applicants chosen for the 2016 festival will be notified in January.

Runners, joggers and walkers interested in participating in the third annual 5k FUNderwear Run can sign up for the FUNderwear Run now! This walk/run will be held on Sunday, March 13 in downtown Grand Rapids and racers are encouraged to wear their finest (and funniest!) underwear over their running clothes to create a hilarious and one-of-a-kind moment in support of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. Registration is $30 prior to February 19, and $35  until the run on March 13. Registered participants will receive an official race t-shirt and finisher medal.

LaughFest FUNderwear runIn addition to these events, LaughFest organizers also announced that LaughFest Friends memberships are now available. LaughFest Friends memberships give fans of LaughFest opportunities to connect with the festival year round, and are available for purchase online, at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids (1806 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504) or at LaughFest Central when it opens mid-February.

There are three levels of memberships available, starting at $25. Level one includes an exclusive tee shirt designed by The Mitten State, High Five button and donation, exclusive content and experiences, and early access to Fast Passes for free events. Fast Passes guarantee holders a seat for free showings as long as they are seated 15 minutes prior to the event start time.

The second level costs $50 and includes everything in the $25 level, plus a Mitten State Smile Decal, a 20 percent discount for merchandise at LaughFest Central and online, and a $5 off coupon for LaughFest Central for anyone who signs up before Thanksgiving.

The third membership level is $100 and includes all the items at the $25 and $50 levels, plus pre-sale opportunities to purchase ticket packages in December 2015 and individual tickets in January 2016 before the general public, and two VIP passes to Headliner’s Club at the BOB during the festival.

Designed to celebrate laughter for the health of it, LaughFest features free and ticketed events including stand-up, improv, film, authors, community showcases and a variety of seriously funny stuff. Past LaughFest headliners include Jay Leno, Lily Tomlin, Chris Tucker, Bill Cosby, Mike Birbiglia, Margaret Cho, Betty White, Whoopi Goldberg, Mike Epps, Rodney Carrington, Martin Short, Kevin Nealon, Wayne Brady, Jim Breuer, Joel McHale, Lewis Black, Brian Regan and Anjelah Johnson. An announcement regarding the 2016 festival headliners is expected later this year.

The sixth year of the festival is scheduled for March 10 through March 20, 2016.

Top Ten Finalists Announced in Saugatuck Shorts Competition

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, , , ,

Saugatuck Center for the ArtsThe Saugatuck Center for the Arts announced the top ten final films for its 2015 Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition. A panel of judges from the entertainment industry scored all entries, whittling the field down to five films in the student category and five in the adult category.

The top ten short films will be screened at the award ceremony at the SCA on Saturday, November 7 at 6:30p.m.

This year’s top ten short films are a mix of cinematic drama, comedy, and lifestyle stories. The films are all under five minutes and each has a “Michigan-flavor” (filmed in Michigan, filmmaker hails from Michigan, story line about Michigan, etc.).  At the November 7th screening the winner of the juried student film will receive a $500 prize, the juried adult category winner will receive a $1,000 prize, and the audience will vote on its favorite film for an additional $1,000 prize.

Finalists in the student category include filmmaker Jared Friedrich from Aurora, Illinois. Friedrich’s film James Cagney Junior is a comedic look at the art of storytelling with subtle references to work by the late actor James Cagney.

From Holland, Michigan comes the film People Like Us by CultureWorks’ Legendary League of Leaders exploring the tremendous challenges of teen mental illness. Holland Christian student Ben Eizenga created the short film Ben there. Done that. highlighting the little moments that make up a day in his life.

Dario Lirio, of Hudsonville High School, submitted Grand Rapids Junior Rowing, showing the team’s hard work and spirit.  Mitchell Ross created We Are Hudsonville, Michigan, a short film highlighting the Hudsonville community, specifically referencing the Hudsonville Football program and their “Eagle Pride.”

Saugatuck ShortsThe winners in this year’s adult category are all West Michigan locals. Alex Bolen is a Grand Rapids native and the owner of Opensail Production Company who made the top ten with his film Sleeping Bear Dunes, a time-lapse of the dunes and surrounding area shot over the course of a week.

Zachary Clark of Clark|Camera|Cinema created the film Lay with Love, a dramatic interpretation of the song “Lay with Love” by fellow Kalamazoo-based band The Go Rounds.

From Grayling, Michigan comes filmmaker Nicholas Gascho with the film Locked. The short film was conceived and shot in 60 hours and tells the tale of a family social issue.

Ron Lechler’s (Fennville, Michigan) top ten film explores how people use comedy and humor to overcome the hurt in their lives in his short film The Best Medicine.

The Outdoor Discovery Center (Executive Director Travis Williams) of Holland, Michigan made the top ten with its film Little Hawks Discovery Preschool about the Hamilton Community Schools’ nature-based preschool.

“It’s always an exciting event, particularly since the winners go home with generous cash prizes” said Kristin Armstrong, SCA Executive Director. “Plus, this year’s media partnership with WKTV is really going to make people feel like stars.  The station’s mobile unit will be on site getting all the action – it’s really going to be an exciting evening of media magic.”

Tickets to Saugatuck Shorts are $20 for adults and $10 for students and include light appetizers and the chance to cast your vote for the “Audience Favorite” Award at the show. A cash bar is available from 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. with the screenings begining at 7:15 p.m.  More information and tickets can be found at sc4a.org or at 269-857-2399.

Michigan Selected as Finalist for First-of-its-kind Mental Health Initiative

Community Health, Non-Profits, Politics, , ,

mental-healthU.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow today announced that Michigan will be awarded $982,373 to compete in a nation-wide program to improve and expand access to mental health care. This first-of-its-kind initiative is based on Senator Stabenow’s Excellence in Mental Health Act, which is one of the most significant steps forward in community mental health funding in decades.

Selected by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Michigan is one step closer to being chosen to be part of a new eight-state demonstration program to expand quality mental health care. This new program will offer patients increased services like 24-hour crisis psychiatric care, counseling, and integrated treatments for mental illness. Senator Stabenow’s bipartisan Excellence in Mental Health Act was cosponsored by Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) and signed into law by President Obama last year.

“Mental illness touches every family in some way,” Senator Stabenow said. “It is critically important that communities in Michigan have the resources they need to help everyone living with mental illness. We must continue to work together to make sure illnesses above the neck are treated the same as illnesses below the neck.”

Michigan is one of 24 states selected to work with interested community mental health centers, Federally-Qualified Health Centers, VA clinics, and other mental health organizations to design a state program that meets the new quality standards for Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers. The eight states chosen to participate in the demonstration program will increase funding for community mental health services and improve the quality of those services. This is the first step toward funding quality behavioral health services in communities nation-wide.

Debbie Stabenow
Senator Stabenow

“We are excited to receive a planning grant for the State of Michigan to design and implement a structure that will further integrate and coordinate behavioral health and primary care, improve outreach to consumers in the greatest need and provide needed and effective coordination of care among providers in multiple settings throughout the state,” said Jeff Patton, CEO of Kalamazoo Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

Senator Stabenow has been a life-long advocate for quality mental health services. She authored the mental health parity provisions in the Affordable Care Act to stop discrimination in coverage between physical and behavioral health services. Senator Stabenow introduced the Excellence in Mental Health Act with Senator Blunt in 2013 to put mental health centers on a more equal footing with other health centers by improving quality standards and expanding access.

The law is supported by over 50 mental health organizations, veterans organizations and law enforcement organizations including: the National Association of Police Organizations, National Sheriffs’ Association, American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, National Alliance on Mental Illness, the National Council for Behavioral Healthcare, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Mental Health America, National Association of Psychiatric Health Systems, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America and Give An Hour, among many others.

A full list of the 24 states awarded funding can be found here.

Runaways and Homeless Children Tell Their Stories

Area Education, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Politics, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

homeless girlsBy: Deb Havens

West Michigan is known as a great place to raise kids, but every year an average of 2,000 young people run away from home. When you’re a homeless child, streets in West Michigan towns are as dirty and dangerous as any in a big city. As the weather gets colder, somewhere around 200 kids will be looking for food and a warm place to sleep every night. Chances are, wherever they land, safety may be a last consideration.

Fortunately, the non-profit organization Arbor Circle provides counseling and support for up to 21 days for young people ages 10 to 20 years old at the only emergency shelter in the community. Jenell Hill, Arbor Circle Community Engagement Coordinator says, “Many people don’t believe it.” So to spotlight these issues in honor of National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, Arbor Circle, located at 1115 Ball Ave NE in Grand Rapids, will host the Green Light Project in November:

The Green Light Project, Wednesday, November 4, 2015 – 5:30pm–8pm

Young people who have experienced living as a runaway and homeless who found shelter either at The Bridge or homeless kidsother service programs will host facility tours and share their stories. “Sometimes it’s not only therapeutic for young people but they are also a voice for their peers,” adds Hill. “Maybe other young people won’t have the same struggles.”

Without Arbor Circle, homeless, runaway, and street youth often become victims of abuse and neglect, sexual assault or trafficking, and get involved in substance abuse. They also tend to suffer from both physical and mental health issues, failure in school, and trouble with the law. These are the stories that Hill says are often overlooked when people think about the good life in West Michigan.

Hill stresses that all minor youth tour guides participate with permission of their parents, and those under 18 lead tours accompanied by Arbor Circle staff members. Hill says that budget cuts in Washington, D.C. have affected Arbor Circle resources. “We used to have a 15 seat bus to transport kids, but that broke down and we haven’t been able to replace it,” notes Hill. “We also rely on volunteers to help us cook meals.” Donations and volunteers are always welcome.

For more information on services for homeless or runaway children, contact Arbor Circle / The Bridge.

Gilda’s Club to Host Night of Gratitude to Honor Supporters

Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities,

Gilda's ClubOn Nov. 12, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids will host its Night of Gratitude event to recognize the many supporters who help carry out the organization’s mission of providing emotional healthcare for those on a cancer or grief journey.

The 2015 honorees include:

•    Meijer – Corporate Engagement Award
This award is given to a corporate partner that demonstrates philanthropic support and encourages its employees, vendors, and community to engage with Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids through volunteerism, fundraising, leadership roles, and creating awareness of our mission and program.
•    GE Aviation – Service Award
This award is given to a group of any size that takes the word “service” to the next level through ongoing support of the Gilda’s Club mission, program, events, and most of all, our members.
•    Pink Arrow Project – Community Partner
This award is given to an organization or group that exemplifies what it means to support Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids and the West Michigan community through innovative fundraising concepts, promoting the mission of Gilda’s Club in creative ways, and being genuine ambassadors of our organization.
•    Sister Sue Tracy, OP – Spirit of Gilda Award
This award is presented to an individual who has supported Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids through openly sharing our mission of cancer and grief support with his or her friends and colleagues, advocating for our organization with other leaders in the community, and doing so with the light-heartedness and laughter that embodied our namesake Gilda Radner.

“Gilda’s Club has so many wonderful supporters who help advance our cause. We hope that through the Night of Gratitude, we can show these organizations and individuals how thankful we are for their passion, innovation and vision,” said Wendy Wigger, president of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids.

Gilda’s Night of Gratitude will be held at New Vintage Place (889 Broadway Ave. NW, Grand Rapids) and will begin at 5:30 p.m. An awards ceremony for honorees will take place at 6:30 p.m. and a performance by the Pop Scholars, a four man Grand Rapids-based improv team, will follow.

Tickets to the Night of Gratitude can be purchased for $50 by contacting Ashley Owen at aowen@gildasclubgr.org or 616-453-8300 or by going to www.gildasclubgr.org/gildasnightofgratitude.

Cuteness Overload! Need Acorns, ASAP

Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , , ,

squirrel_nursingBy: Victoria Mullen

The cuteness cannot be denied. But all that cuteness comes with a price: Acorns. Lots of acorns.

A Northern Michigan animal rescue needs donations of acorns after taking in 18 orphaned baby squirrels who are too young to make it through the winter in the wild.

The Association to Rescue Kritters (“A.R.K.”), a wildlife rehabilitation facility in Maple Valley, cares for a variety of injured and orphaned creatures throughout the year. Each year, well-meaning individuals or tree cutters bring several orphaned young squirrels to animal rescues.

Squirrels typically have two litters of two to four young each year; the first is in the spring, the second in late summer. The second litter spends the winter with the mother.

photoIt’s an unromantic life; the male leaves the female after mating and she is left alone to raise the babies. For the eastern gray squirrel, gestation is approximately 45 days. Born naked, toothless, and blind, the young are weaned at around seven to ten weeks of age and stay with the mother for several more weeks to learn the ways of the wild.

This year has seen a bumper crop. The new little arrivals–all 18 of them (so far)–are no more than a month old, far too young to survive in the wild. Volunteers are providing foster homes where the little guys receive bottle feedings and 24/7 care. Once they are more than a month old, they will be moved babyredsquirrelsto a larger indoor space at A.R.K. Next, they will transition to an enclosed outdoor area with nesting boxes to adapt to the cold. Shivering stimulates fur growth; the goal is to grow a nice, thick coat to keep warm.

Feasting on a diet of monkey biscuits (grape-sized grain pellets), sunflower seeds and acorns, 18 hungry, fast-growing little squirrels aren’t cheap to feed. Donations of acorns and sunflower seeds are desperately needed to get these guys through the winter.

Bring your donation to A.R.K. at 3878 S. Maple Valley Road in Saint Helen, Mich. 48656 and leave it by the door if no one is around at the time. Financial donations are welcome, too, and may be mailed to the same address.

The A.R.K. AsScreen Shot 2015-10-01 at 10.41.36 PMsociation to Rescue Kritters helps rehabilitate animals in Roscommon, Crawford, Ogemaw, Gladwin, Clare and Missaukee Counties.

 

Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition Announces Judges and Sponsors

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, , , , , , ,

Saugatuck Center for the ArtsThe Saugatuck Center for the Arts is shining a spotlight on Michigan film with the help of filmmakers and industry professionals who will be judging this year’s Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition. The 2015 panel of judges is made up of six individuals who will decide the winners of the $2,500 cash prize in the student and adult categories.

The Saugatuck Shorts competition is accepting admissions until Friday, October 16; the public screening will take place on November 7 at the SCA.

Judges for this year’s competition include a mix of independent filmmakers, a film professor, and an entertainment lawyer. The judges were chosen based on their familiarity with the entertainment industry and their ability to provide credible, constructive feedback.

Joel Paul Reisig
Joel Paul Reisig

The first filmmaker taking the judge’s seat is Joel Paul Reisig. Joel is the owner of Be Your Own Hollywood, a two-day film school that focuses on financing, distributing, and shooting films on a budget. Reisig has produced films such as American Scream King, Fraternity House, and Deadly Karma. With over two decades of producing and acting experience, Reisig has worked with stars Dean Cain, Dustin Diamond, Richard Karn, and more.

Co-founder of the Thriller! Chiller! Film Festival and owner of UnSAFE Film Office, Anthony Griffin, will be another judge for this year’s competition. UnSAFE Film Office has produced and shot multiple documentaries, short films, music videos, and commercials over the last decade and Griffin has served on the board for the West Michigan Video and Film Alliance and the Grand Rapids Community Media Center.

Compass College of Cinematic Arts alumni relations specialist and producer, Elizabeth Merriman, will also be serving as a judge on this year’s panel. Merriman is a graduate of Compass College of Cinematic Arts and also owns and operates her own production company, Happy Hats LLC.

Doug Remtema of Sonlight Films will also be serving as a judge at this year’s competition. Remtema started Sonlight Films in 2003 and works on producing films and television shows that revolve around positive and uplifting material.

Anthony Griffin
Anthony Griffin
Doug Remtema
Doug Remtema

Curt Anderson of Pine Creek Films. Pine Creek Films is a non-profit organization in Byron Center, Michigan that is dedicated to empowering amateur filmmakers by getting them involved in filmmaking.

The sixth and final judge for this year’s competition is Clark Hill attorney Joseph Voss. Voss leads the Entertainment Industry Team at Clark Hill where he represents the financing parties for film and television productions.

“We couldn’t ask for a greater group of people,” said SCA Marketing and Sales Director, Angela Peavey. ”Film is one of my passions, and to see these professionals willing to offer their time and talents is absolutely amazing. We’re very fortunate to have them.”

Peavey also announced sponsors for this year’s film competition. “We are thrilled to welcome the West Michigan Film and Media Office as a Gold Sponsor and the West Michigan Film and Video Alliance as a Bronze Sponsor. We’re also working with media sponsor WKTV.”

The Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition will take place on November 7, 2015 with a cash bar at 6:30 p.m. and the screening beginning at 7:15 p.m. More information and ticket purchases can be made at sc4a.org or by calling 269.857.2399.

Special Family Fun Fest at the DeltaPlex

Community Health, Education, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, Senior Living, Volunteers, , , ,

special needs face painting2Children with special needs create special families. Five years ago, some of those family members got together to create the Family Hope Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting not only their own children, but all special families. They’ve hit on a sure thing: the Special Families Fun Fest, returning for its 4th year at the DeltaPlex Arena on Saturday, October 17 from 10am-4pm. Lara Kitts is in charge of the event. “Some of us who have special needs family members know how hard it is to get the family out the door together. This is fun and there’s nothing else like it.”

Admission $5 per person, which includes 10 carnival game tickets (ages 2 and under free!). Tickets are available here. special needs animal fun

Kitts says the Fun Fest provides a wide variety of events set up to provide physically and emotionally safe environments without stress, including carnival games, crafts, a petting zoo and a number of other activities—all without waiting in line. Even better, no one has to stay behind to take care of the special needs family member. “We have amenities such as a sensory room to provide family support if a child is overstimulated,” says Kitts. “We have volunteers who cover every exit to make sure a child doesn’t dart away. We’ve pretty much thought of everything.”

special needs boyThose concerned that the Special Families Fun Fest may not have anticipated their particular need are invited to call in advance at 616-780-3839. Visit the Family Hope Foundation to learn more about this very special organization. For more information about Fun Fest activities, check out the event.  If you would like to volunteer, Kitts says she would be pleased to find you a special role to fill at the event, sure to fill a special place in your heart.

What Does It Mean to be a ‘Real Man’

Area Education, Community Health, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, , ,

In our society the expectation for a boy to be a “real man” is centered on stifling emotion, physical strength, violence, sexual conquest, and economic success. The Mask You Live In is a film dedicated to spreading the word that being a “real man” is so much more.

In a screening hosted by the YWCA West Central Michigan, The Mask You Live In seeks to expand how we define American masculinity. The film lays out the devastation wrought on both boys and girls when the cultural definition shies away from authentically connecting young men to those around them; the very thing that makes us human.

Here are some facts:

•    Three or more boys commit suicide every day and suicide is the third leading cause of death for boys
•    Boys are two times more likely to flunk or drop out of school
•    Boys are two times more likely to receive special education
•    Boys are four times more likely to be expelled
•    93% of boys are exposed to internet porn before age 18
•    21% of young men use pornography every day

The Mask You Live InWhile the masculinity crisis hurts boys, it touches on girls as well. The well-being of girls and women is inextricably tied to the well-being of boys and men.

•    1 in 5 women are raped
•    1 in 4 women are abused by their intimate partner
•    1 in 6 women has had a stalker threaten her
•    64% of mass murder victims are women and children; 94% of their killers are male

Nationally recognized for its expertise and effectiveness, the YWCA West Central Michigan is our community’s most comprehensive provider of domestic and sexual violence services.

The Mask You Love In will be screened this Thursday, October 15 at Celebration Cinema South. Check in starts at 6:30 p.m. with the film starting at 7. A panel discussion with representatives from the YWCA, The Men’s Resource Center and Family Futures will immediately follow the film.

The event is free, but reservations are required! RSVP Here or contact lsikkema@ywcawcmi.org.

Feelin’ Groovy: ‘Give Peace a Chance’ Fundraiser is Oct. 15

Local Business, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

give peace a chance John LennonIf you grew up in the ’60s or ’70s, you’ll be very familiar with the phrase, “Give Peace a Chance.” Even if you’re a tad younger, chances are you’ve heard the phrase or even the famous song written by John Lennon while he was still one of the Beatles. The words became an anthem for anti-Vietnam War protesters, but this year the phrase has been revived as the theme of the Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan‘s (DRCWM) second annual fundraiser celebrating International Conflict Resolution Day.

 

The “Give Peace a Chance” event is slated for Thursday, October 15 from 7-9 pm at the B.O.B.-EVE, 20 Monroe Ave. NW, Rapids, MI 49503. Tickets are $35. The Main Street Dueling Pianos will provide a flashback to freer times with ’60s music, and you’ll want to dress to match the theme for extra fun. Two local peacemakers–Judge William Kelly and Peter Letzmann–will be honored at the event for their outstanding service to the community.

 

If you’re not involved in a lawsuit or major conflict at the moment, you may not see the relevance to your GPAC-Poster-791x1024life. However, perhaps it’s time to ponder another old saying, “Into each life a few (or many) raindrops fall,” which has nothing to do with the weather. Rather, the phrase is our cultural shorthand for a simple fact: No one escapes conflicts in life. The question we all ask ourselves at some point is, “How do I deal with it?”

 

Chris Gilman, the nonprofit’s Executive Director, says, “Conflict is unavoidable, but we can use it as an opportunity for growth.”

 

Every year about a thousand people experiencing conflict visit the DRCWM. They sit down with a trained mediator and talk about the problem(s) they face. They don’t just talk, they also listen. Then they create a solution that works for the parties involved, whether the conflicts involve marriage, divorce, employment, a neighbor, or just about anything else. The DRCWM reaches out to a seven-county area, providing low- or no-cost mediation services to people of modest means. Some cases are referred to the center by the court.

 

The process is cheaper than hiring an attorney, because you do the work yourself; but this is one DIY project where a trained coach is vital, and that takes money; the investment in creating peace is significant. So rummage around for your old fur vest, rose-tinted glasses, love beads, and maybe old army fatigues. Hang out at the B.O.B., practice your peace sign and “Give Peace a Chance.” It’s hip to feel groovy.

hippies

For more information, visit the DRCWM’s website or call 616.774.0121.

Looking for a new taste sensation?

Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Food, Non-Profits, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , ,

Dim-Sum1-726x400How about Dim Sum? If you have no clue what it is or what it tastes like, and especially if you do, you’ll want to schedule lunch at Kentwood’s Wei Wei (pronounced “Way Way”) Palace, on Saturday, October 17, 2015, at 4242 South Division.

Similar in concept to the tapas style of presenting a number of dishes to a group, Dim Sum is a shared meal of traditional Cantonese small plates. Attendants push carts from table to table to make your choice easy. The cuisine is placed in the table center on a revolving tray for diners to sample. Options feature steamed, baked, and fried variations of Dim Sum. “There’s a little bit of everything,” says Ashley Kassuba, Marketing Assistant for the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan. “Shrimp, vegetables, and rice are often mixed together, but there are some meat dishes and some veggie dishes, too.”

The cost is $20 per person, and includes tea and a selection of Dim Sum options brought to your table.Dim-Sum2

Reservations must be paid in advance by credit card or check.  RSVP online or call the World Affairs Council office at 616-776-1721 by Tuesday, October 13.

The event is an adventurous concept in furthering cultural understanding, says Kassuba. Ping Liang, former Board President of the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan, will be on hand to explain the history of Dim Sum, along with chopstick etiquette and other fun facts.

Sponsored by GlobalConnections, the newest group for young professionals (and “the young at heart”) at the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan, the luncheon is the first of planned interactive events scheduled throughout the upcoming year.

More social networking is planned at the end of November through December 4 to encourage fair trade shopping. Global Gifts, a non-profit specialty-item store that sells Fair Trade products, will host at 2055 28th St. (Located in the Grand Central Plaza).

weiwei palaceBut for now, the focus is on food. We understand that “Wei Wei” is a fun way to claim “the best, the VERY best” taste awaits you. Check it out at the Wei Wei Palace!

Haunted West Michigan

Local Business, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming Events, , , , ,

Forest of FearWatching a scary movie is one thing, but the real horror begins when you live it. To safely help you live the scary movie experience, the haunted houses of West Michigan have you covered! Enjoy terrifying scares as you cautiously check around every corner, making sure that there isn’t somebody – or something – following you.

Central

The Haunt

The Haunt has been generating screams for 15 years and they’re excited for another year! Their 20,000 square foot land is filled with all things scary! Expect even more Hollywood level sets, lighting, and special effects as you run from ghosts to clowns to everything in between. New features and side attractions help The Haunt continue to serve Michigan with their annual Halloween of scares!

Forest of Fear

The Forest of Fear is West Michigan’ premier outdoor haunted attraction which has been frightening and entertaining thrill-seekers of all ages for years! Located just south of Grand Rapids in Caledonia, the Forest of Fear is an interactive, self guided walk though tour through five chilling acres of haunted woods and swamps inhabited by ghosts, monsters, and other terrifying creatures. As you walk along the dimly lit and winding trails of the Forest of Fear you will face one spine-tingling jolt after another in an experience unlike any other haunted house!

South

Haunted Campus at Michigan Maritime Museum

The Haunted Campus event at the Michigan Maritime Museum takes place October 30 and October 31 from 8pm to 11pm. This event transforms the entire campus into a terrifying new locale and challenges visitors to navigate through the horror around them. This event is only for those ages 14 and up and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

If learning about ghostly spirits is more your speed, make sure to check out the Michigan’s Ghostly Beacons presentation at the Michigan Maritime Museum! Nearly two dozen lights in Michigan are rumored to be haunted by their previous keepers. The stories of these lights will entertain all ages! Dianna Stampfler, who has contributed to a plethora of publications, will present with all the proceeds benefiting the Save the Light campaign.

The HauntHaunted Trail at Stokes Homestead Farm Market

Hop on a wagon at Stokes Homestead Farm Market and take a ride on the haunted trail highlighting the history of the “Shadow Hill Asylum.” The haunted forest and apple orchard are inhabited by the patients of Shadow Hollow so watch out! They may even climb onto the wagon and try to bring you back with them!

Haunted Forest and Temple Coldwater Country CVB

Take an adventure around the Haunted Forest at Rotary Park in Coldwater! Taking place October 26, 27, 29, and 30, kids will enjoy the less scary 6pm to 7pm activities while the real scary things come out from 7pm to 9pm!

The basement of the Masonic Temple gets real scary on October 20, 21, 23, 24, 27, 28, 30, and 31! Filled with all the things that go bump in the night, don’t miss a chance to experience Halloween scares in this building that is over 140 years old.

Niles Scream Park

Offering five unique main attractions that are carefully and professionally designed, Niles Scream Park is here to scare the “yell” out of you! This years feature attraction is an homage to Steven King featuring a clown in your sewer, escaping the wrath of Johnny, and seeing first hand Carrie’s prom night! This is in addition to four other great haunted attractions that you don’t want to miss!

Haunted Adventures at Cornwell’s Turkeyville

Every weekend in October, Cornwell’s holds their family friendly Haunted Adventures from 12pm to 8pm on Saturdays and 12pm to 5pm on Sundays! Activities include a pumpkin patch, spooky hay ride, and Haunted Barn. The theme for the Haunted Barn this year is “shadows” so watch out for what is lurking about!

Haunted Forest at Covert/South Haven KOA

Enjoy two weekends of Halloween fun with Covert/South Haven KOA! On the weekends of October 2 and 9, enjoy some great family activities including trick-or-treating, a haunted forest, games, pumpkin decorating, and more! With all these great things to do, you may want to come back for both weekends!

Haunted Forest at Crystal MountainHaunted Corn Maze & 3D Barn at Crane Orchards

Prepare yourself for Crane Orchards’ Haunted Corn Maze and 3-D Barn! The 20-acre corn maze features plenty of spooky interruptions and terrifying surprises as your navigate through it. New to this year’s fall preview is the 3-D Barn which begins at dusk to 10pm.

The Haunted Hallow at Olde World Village

The Old World Village’s largest annual event, The Haunted Hallow, is right around the corner! Supporting the regions charities, The Haunted Hallow features everything scary on a half mile trail going through the woods with over 25 scenes. All this and the Maze of Despair are set up to make sure that you are properly scared! Open every Friday and Saturday night during the month of October form 8pm to midnight. This is not recommended for those under 17.

North

Haunted Forest at Crystal Mountain

Are you brave enough to make it through Crystal Mountain’s Haunted Forest? Hang out by the fire where you’ll hear the screams surrounding the mountain. Carefully maneuver down the haunted trail and watch out for what lurks around every corner. Tickets available at the Park at Water’s Edge on October 17, 23, 24, and 30!

Haunted Trail at Grand Hotel

See the Grand Hotel as you’ve never seen it before! The weekend begins Friday, October 30 with a Welcome Reception, five-course dinner, and Haunted Trail! A scary movie will be presented Friday evening as well! Saturday includes a Bloody Mary bar, pumpkin carving contests, free admission to the Haunted Theatre downtown, and Haunted Afternoon Tea. Another five-course dinner will be served Saturday evening followed by the Grand Halloween Party! There will be live music and all beer, wine, and snacks are included at the party.

Haunts of Mackinac Island Tour at Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is going to be filled to the brim with great activities! Don’t miss the kids Trick or Treating downtown, Haunts of Mackinac Island Tour, and Halloween parties at the downtown pubs! This a great mix of family fun and grown up entertainment!

Pinery Park Little League on the Right Track

Hard News, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Sports, , ,

PineryParkBy: Mike DeWitt

Following weeks of speculation about whether the Pinery Park Little League (PPLL) would exist after 60 years of operation, the PPLL and the City of Wyoming agreed on a new contract to keep the league in charge of youth baseball.

Pinery Park Little League was in jeopardy of losing its contract with the City of Wyoming and Pinery Park due to a lack of transparent bookkeeping and the loss of nonprofit 501(c)(3) status.

The League made tremendous progress ironing out those issues over the past two weeks.

“I guess it took some major deadlines in order to have this contract happen,” exclaimed Mayor Jack Poll at the October 5 City Council Meeting. “I think it’s a good agreement. It protects both the park and those involved with the PPLL.”

There is new leadership within the League as almost an entirely new board was voted in during the elections on September 30. Mayor Poll was in attendance and cast his vote for the League leaders.

It is clear the new board wants the new contract and agreement to work. The members are shouldering a large responsibility to meet the requirements of the contract. The new board will have to prepare and show financial statements to the fiduciary handling the league’s financials. The PPLL board will meet on a regular, scheduled basis to stay on top of happenings throughout the league.

One of the main hiccups was the loss of 501(c)(3) status for the League back in 2011. The IRS has received and is reviewing the PPLL’s application to reinstate that status. The League must now wait 60-120 days for an answer from the IRS.

“The Pinery Park Little League knows how to run a league, they’ve been doing it a long time,” said Mayor Poll.

Now the league, the City, the parents, and the players can focus on the most important aspect… PLAY BALL!

GWCRA Encourages ‘Letters of Approach’ from Wyoming Nonprofits

Education, Non-Profits, Our Cities, , ,

Screen Shot 2015-09-30 at 4.13.25 PMGreat news for Wyoming, Michigan-based nonprofits! The Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance (GWCRA) now awards grants several times a year, up from just once annually. And, it is much easier to apply. Gone is the lengthy, very detailed application.

The new application process now requires an initial ‘letter of approach,’ which may be submitted at any time. The letter may not exceed two pages, must include a description of the project, affirm the purpose/need addressed, identify a target population, and indicate the anticipated amount of the request.

GRWCRA’s Board of Directors will review letters on a timely basis and invite those organizations it wishes to consider funding to complete a full application. Letters of approach are only accepted via email to the attention of Rebecca Rynbrandt, Board Secretary at rynbranb@wyomingmi.gov.

The Board reserves the right to seek applications specific to any area of interest and/or target funding to specific initiatives at any given time. Types of support include equipment, seed money/program development and operating support. Grant amounts typically range from $500 to $3,000. Review the GWCRA’s grant history here.

If your organization is invited to submit a full application, it will be due two weeks from the date of invitation.

The GWCRA strives to support nonprofit organizations and grassroots charitable causes that improve the fabric of the community. Since 2011, the organization has awarded over $40,000 to area schools, nonprofits, neighborhood associations and grassroots organizations in support of educational programs, community projects, disaster response, scholarships and more. All of the donations received or fundraised by the GWCRA are awarded back into the community.

GWCRA is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the greater Wyoming community. The Alliance is established to provide a charitable outlet for citizens and businesses eager to make a sustainable and immediate impact to the very fabric of the community.

Artwork by Andy Warhol

WKTV partners with SCA for Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition

Education, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Upcoming Events, WKTV Projects, , , ,

Screen Shot 2015-09-30 at 1.05.24 PMCrave a sliver of the limelight? If you’re a Michigan filmmaker, here’s your chance to win big and have your film aired on Television.

Deadline to enter is October 16.

For the first time, Wyoming Kentwood Community Television and Media (WKTV) is teaming with the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (SCA), at this year’s Third Annual Saugatuck Shorts Film Competition. Professional and student filmmakers are invited to compete for $2,500 in cash prizes for their short films.

Films must be five minutes or less (including creditSCA-Logo-news and fade time) and each film must have a Michigan ‘flavor’ (made in Michigan, filmmaker from Michigan, Michigan mentioned in the script, etc.).

“This is an exciting new partnership for Saugatuck Shorts,” said Kristin Armstrong, Executive Director of the SCA. “WKTV’s mission is to educate the community about how to create video content; through Saugatuck Shorts we are providing the station with an exciting outlet to highlight Michigan video. We couldn’t be happier to work alongside WKTScreen Shot 2015-09-30 at 2.39.32 PMV’s talented professionals and volunteers.”

 

 

 

For individuals entering the competition, another benefit of the WKTV partnership is the chance to be featured on the station. WKTV will broadcast the top ten juried films after they’re announced in late October.

“We thought this would be a great way to celebrate making the top ten,” said WKTV Executive Director, Tom Norton. “We’re giving those ten people just another sliver of limelight to get them excited for the live audience screening on Saugatuck Shorts’ night.”

Arts_Partners_LogosIn addition, there will be a live broadcast of the November 7 event on WKTV. For those living in Wyoming, Kentwood, or Gaines Township, the station’s programming is on Channel 25.

Student submissions (high school students and younger) are free, and adults (college and up) are $15.00 per entry. Video projects by schools, clubs, and religious organizations are eligible to enter. Registration for Saugatuck Shorts has been extended to October 16 and can be completed online.

Registration information and questions regarding Saugatuck Shorts can be found here or by calling 269.857.2399.

WKTV, wWMFVA-Logo-5x5hich celebrated 40 years in 2014, is one of the oldest community television stations in the country still in operation. The station is located at 5261 Clyde Park Ave. in Wyoming, Mich.

The Saugatuck Center for the Arts, located at 400 Culver Street, Saugatuck, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a more vibrant lakeshore community in West Michigan and beyond. For more information about the SCA and upcoming events, visit SCA’s website or call 269.857.2399.

Time is Running Out on Pinery Park Little League

Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recreation, , , ,

By: Mike DeWitt

It’s every little leaguer’s dream, that perfect game-ending situation that runs through a ballplayer’s mind: At the bottom of the ninth inning with two outs, the bases are loaded with your team down a score. Three balls and two strikes, a full count and it’s do or die.

There’s nowhere to hide. It’s just you at the plate. A chance to be the hero.

For Pinery Park Little League (PPLL), the game is winding down and it’s time for the league to step up to the plate so that its contract with the City of Wyoming and Pinery Park isn’t terminated.

After 60 years of organizing youth baseball here in Wyoming, the PPLL is in jeopardy of losing its home.

PineryParkThe problems started back in 2011 when the PPLL lost its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status with the IRS due to a lack of transparent bookkeeping and financial information. Since the loss of 501(c)(3) status, the City of Wyoming has asked the PPLL to take the necessary steps to get the nonprofit title back with the IRS.

Four years later that still has not been accomplished. That’s just the tip of the iceberg for an organization that has proven to be run very inefficiently.

Electrical and maintenance bills haven’t been paid on time. Board meeting dates are flimsy with sometimes only a couple of days’ notice before a meeting. Board election positions are posted with the minimal amount of notice (two weeks) mandated by the league’s bylaws. Umpires are paid in cash out of the concession stand register with no paper trail to follow. And the League has been unable to present their financials at the request of the Wyoming City Council.

“This league is extremely, extremely unorganized,” exclaimed Mayor Jack Poll in a heat of passion and disappointment at the City Council Meeting on September 14. “And, if they can’t have the leadership to run this league on our fields with the requirements that we have, then it’s time to change direction.”

The Wyoming City Council had a very long discussion about what to do with the PPLL and whether or not the contract should be terminated. By the end of the meeting, they decided on a few next steps:

  • The PPLL must turn over all financials, bank statements and loose pieces of paper
  • The PPLL lawyer and the City lawyer will draw up a new contract that has some teeth
  • The new contract will designate the Community Resource Alliance as the fiduciary for the finances of the PPLL
  • The PPLL will form a separate committee to field complaints from league participants

The new contract must be submitted by September 30 so that it can be placed on the October 5 meeting’s agenda. If no agreement is reached, the contract will be terminated on October 5, and the Parks and Rec Department will charter youth baseball.

Thunder Over Michigan Air Show

Citizen Journalism, Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, , , ,

Blue AngelsBy: Katelyn Kohane

Thunder Over Michigan is an amazing experience. I went on Sunday, which happens to be the final day. The event took place at the Detroit Metro Willow Run Airport. There was an incredible line up of military air planes and helicopters.

Of course, they saved the best for last, the United States Navy Blue Angels.

The entire days was chalked full of events to keep you busy and occupied. The total number of aircrafts was jaw-dropping.

Thunder over MichgianTo mention a few of the planes: the Heavy Hitter Avro Lancaster, which made its debut in 1942 as the strategic bombing in Europe began during World War 2; The End All Be All Fifi B-29 Superfortress, this was one of the planes to drop nuclear bombs during World War 2 and was also used in active duty during the Korean War; Patrolling the skies Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer, which was a patrol bomber for the United States Navy during World War 2 and the Korean War.

They had a number planes on the ground that you could take a tour through, but I wound up skipping out on the plane tours and took a slightly more adventurous experience. I ended up going for a ride in a UH-1 Huey Helicopter.

The tour in the Huey required a signed waiver and $75. It was worth every penny!

I sat in the gunUH-1 Hueyner seat on the outside of the Helicopter. The view, and the entire experience, was incredible. If you’ve never taken a ride in a helicopter, I would highly recommend it. The air show makes for an easy and comfortable environment to give it a try.

The helicopter ride took one thing off the Bucket List; what will I ride in next year!?

As I mentioned, the show was great and the ride was amazing but they saved the best for last; the United States Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration squad.

The Blue Angles makes their home in Pensacola, Florida and they perform across the country throughout the year. They are on the road from the middle of March until late November putting on a showcase in aircraft handling. After November, the Blue Angels head back to Florida for the winter.

The US Navy Blue Angels began in 1946 as a desire to keep the public interested in Naval Aviation. The original Blue Angels team flew a Grumman F6F Hellcat aircraft. The team now flies an F/A 18 Hornet.

Blue AngelsBlue AngelsMaintenance crews for the Blue Angels fly with them in the US Marine Corps C-130 also known as “Fat Albert.” This year the team is lead by their Flight Leader/ Commanding Officer Captain Tom Frosch, who is from Michigan. Another cool tidbit about the team this year, they now have their first female pilot. Her name is Katie (not me though! I wish!).

The team puts on a highly choreographed, high-octane performance with a lot of stunts. They have the four-plane Diamond Formation and also the six-jet Delta Formation where the planes fly as close together as 2 meters.

Performing with massive machinery with such as eloquent grace is a slight to behold. The Blue Angels keep getting better every time I see them. At the end of their show, the team came out the field where everyone was sitting and talked to the audience and signed autographs. It’s always fun to go and talk to the pilots. They really do put on a high-octane performance in the air and with the fans afterwards.

Enjoying my ride in the UH-1 Huey
Enjoying my ride in the UH-1 Huey

I have been fortunate enough to experience their demonstrations at the Air Base in Pensacola many times, and would highly recommend this. The Blue Angels are a true marvel in the sky.

Make sure to check out Thunder Over Michigan next year. You won’t be disappointed!

Katie works in the film industry as a camera operator and has worked on films like ‘All You Can Dream’, ‘Set Up’ and a TV show called ‘American Fallen Soldier.’ She loves helping WKTV with the Citizen Journalism team and working as a tech at Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Katie loves working in the film industry and loves watching movies just as much!

Secretary of State Offices Join 25th Annual Harvest Gathering Food Drive

Community Health, Non-Profits, Politics, Upcoming Events, , ,

MHG_25Year_Logo_Badge (2)Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson today encouraged people across the state to participate in the 25th Annual Michigan Harvest Gathering food drive.

Johnson and Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette joined the Food Bank Council of Michigan in promoting the campaign during an event at the Lansing City Market today. Schuette and his wife co-founded the annual effort in 1991.

“For 25 years, the Harvest Gathering campaign has seen the people of our great state stand together to not only feed the hungry but to bring them hope,” Johnson said. “Michigan families saw some dark days during those 25 years but Harvest Gathering has never let those families down. I want to thank everyone here today, from the people working the food banks to the truck drivers, sponsors and office workers, for keeping the momentum going.”

Johnson also praised Secretary of State staff for making the food drive so successful every year. Since 2011, Secretary of State offices have collected almost 30 tons of food donations. The Secretary of State portion of the Harvest Gathering campaign runs through Nov. 25 this year.

“Secretary of State offices throughout Michigan have provided vital outreach into local communities for this campaign,” said Phillip Knight, executive director of the Food Bank Council of Michigan. “Michigan Harvest Gathering could not be celebrating this milestone year without the support of such dedicated partners in hunger relief.”

In Michigan, 16 percent of households struggle to put food on the table and 21 percent of children don’t know where their next meal will come from, according to the Food Bank Council of Michigan. The organization coordinates the program, which supplies the state’s regional food banks through donations of food and money. The regional food banks serve food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters in every Michigan county.

In 2014, the entire Michigan Harvest Gathering campaign collected 386,922 pounds (193 tons) of food and more than $375,000. This year, the campaign’s goal is to collect enough food and funds for two million meals.

Nonperishable food items with a valid expiration date can be dropped off at any Secretary of State office.

Food items especially needed include: canned meats, dry beans, soups, beef stew, pasta products, peanut butter and tuna. Other items include baby food or formula, diapers, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes. The Food Bank requests donors avoid items in glass, as they often break in transit. Financial donations may be made online at www.feedmichigan.org.

20th Annual Bluegrass Camp and Jam

Local Entertainment, Non-Profits, Recreation, , , ,

FALLFEST 2015 FLYERBluegrass music is American music, pure, honest and beautiful in its simplicity. It came out of the mountains of Appalachia from a rich musical heritage of Scotch/Irish immigrants and was passed down from generation to generation.

Come, celebrate and enjoy this most American music at Fallfest 2015.  Join us on September 18-19, 2015 at the Kent County Youth Fairgrounds in Lowell, Michigan for a music festival that the whole family can enjoy. We will have instrument workshops, food vendors and lots of campsite jammin’.

Actually, jammin’ will be the main focus for this entire festival. Bring your instrument and join in. There will be something for all levels of ability.

Also, there will be an open stage on Friday and Saturday for bands and/or individuals that want to perform before an audience. Be sure to bring lawn chairs for the great show inside our concert building. It’s Bluegrass music, come rain or shine.

The great news, admission for the festival is just your donation! Campsites are available for just $15 per night.

Just the Facts:

Fallfest Bluegrass Music Festival Camp & Jam Event
September 18-19, 2015
Kent County Youth Fairgrounds, Lowell MI
West Michigan Bluegrass Music Association
Dave Simmonds-Promotion and Publicity Chairman
Phone (616) 897-6220

Fallfest 2015 is sponsored/produced by the West Michigan Bluegrass Music Association. For more information or interview, call WMBMA President Lee Strassburger at (616) 891-8825 or visit our website at www.wmbma.org

YMCA and LIVESTRONG Restore Cancer Survivor Health

Community Health, Non-Profits, Recreation, , ,

LIVESTRONG 2 women jog (2)Adult cancer survivors have a new program available to them through local YMCA centers and the LIVESTRONG program to help reclaim health and fitness. The LIVESTRONG program at the YMCA is offered for free to help turn around the effects of the disease, which take a tremendous physical and emotional toll on those affected.

According to the National Cancer Institute, chances are that someone you know, maybe even you, will be diagnosed with cancer during a lifetime. The numbers may seem shocking – one out of two men and one out of three women.

The good news is that figures show the number of people living beyond a cancer diagnosis reached nearly 14.5 million in 2014 and is expected to rise to almost 19 million by 2024. Coping with cancer, and the return to normal life, is more manageable with a network of support. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA supports cancer survivors, while emphasizing a survivor’s health, rather than the disease.

SONY DSC
SONY DSC

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, a 12 week program with free membership at the YMCA, reintroduces participants to a variety of physical activities in a safe and supportive environment. Activities include: weight training, cardiovascular exercise, water aerobics, yoga, and Pilates. YMCA LIVESTRONG instructors are trained to meet the needs of cancer survivors with exercises and supportive care, and work with participants to develop a program that meets their specific needs.

Research shows that moderate levels of appropriate physical activity reduces fatigue, boosts self-esteem, improves muscle strength, and increases physical endurance in individuals after cancer treatment.

Cancer survivors are encouraged contact one of the YMCAs offering the LIVESTRONG program.  Check below for locations, next session schedules, and possible late sign ups.

Wolverine Worldwide Family YMCA

616.363.3000 6555 Jupiter Ave Ne, Belmont, MI 49306

September 13 – December 1, 4:30 – 5:45pm

September 13 – December 1, 11:00am – 12:15pm

 Lowell YMCA (616) 897-8445

35 YMCA Drive Lowell, MA 01852

January 11 – March 30, 2016 (Mondays/Wednesdays), 5:45 – 7:00pm

January 11 – March 30, 2016 (Mondays/Wednesdays), 10:45am – 12:00pm

September 12 – November 30, 2016 (Mondays/Wednesdays), 5:45 – 7:00pm

 Spartan Stores YMCA

 616.885.5500   5722 Metro Way SW Wyoming, MI 49519

September 27 – December 15, 3:00 – 4:15pm

No-kill Cat Shelter Celebrates 10 years of Saving Lives!

Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, , ,
Beazy
Photo Courtesy of Rebekah Dietsche

michele_smith-aversa10 years ago this month, Gina Marvin founded Focus On Ferals (FOF). 1 year ago this month, FOF moved into their new, and larger, Byron Center facility.

Two wonderful events to celebrate!

Starting out in 2005, Marvin provided Trap-Neuter-Return services (TNR consists of the humane trapping, sterilization, and return of feral cats to their familiar habitat) and cared for a handful of stray and sick cats in her garage. Since then, Marvin now has a crew of dedicated volunteers that help her oTessa Tito Atlasrganize and run the current multi-location program.

The TNR is done out of Lowell, the current adoption center is in Byron Center, there are foster families throughout West Michigan, and PetSmart in Grandville is currently featuring FOF cats!

Marvin routinely pulls cats from some of the “high-kill” shelters around West Michigan and places them into the program. These cats are listed as Shelter Pull Kitties on their adoption listing. When a Shelter Pull Kitty is adopted, Marvin is able to rescue another cat from one of those facilities. Cats in FOF’s program stay in residence for as long as it takes to get adopted –some just a few months, others for several years.

kittensRunning the program takes dedication, time, medicine, patience and of course, money. Come out on Sunday, August 23 and meet Marvin, her volunteers, see the facilities and meet all the kittens and cats that are waiting for their “forever families” to bring them to their “forever homes!”

Come, Celebrate 10 Years of Focus On Ferals No-Kill Cat Rescue and Adoption Center.

Sunday August 23, 2015 from 11:00am – 5:00pm

Focus on Ferals – 
7962 Clyde Park SW 
Byron Center MI 49315 (76th/Clyde Park, south of Spartan Warehouse Facility)

Raffle Baskets, Tour our Facility, Volunteer Opportunities, Refreshments and $50 Adoption Fee on any cat/kitten! ***Please bring a gift for our shelter kitties***

*You may remember the article Trash Bag Tabby. FOF is the shelter that took him in. He was adopted less than one month later.

YolandaFor more information:
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FocusOnFerals
website: http://www.focusonferals.org
Donations: http://www.focusonferals.org/donate/monthly-donations-focus-ferals-no-kill-shelter/

Village Motorsports Hosts Second Annual West Michigan Freedom Cruise to honor fallen Kentwood soldier David Warsen

Non-Profits, Our Cities, Veterans, Volunteers

If there is only one event you can attend to help our Veterans who have served so courageously, this would be it.   Every dollar raised stays local.

The West Michigan Freedom Cruise and its partner charity, Finish the Mission Veteran Relief Fund, is already having a major impact on West Michigan Veterans and we are excited to announce the details of the 2015 event schedule.

In part to proceeds fromFreedom Cruise 2 last year, we are nearly finished with the new G.R. Veterans Home Ampitheater Project which will be an incredible asset to all West Michigan residents including those residing at this facility.  Help us rebuild this iconic home one project at a time–Finish The Mission!

2015 Freedom Cruise Event Schedule:

Wednesday, June 24th   (5:00-8:00p.m.)   WLAV/Freedom Cruise Summertime Blues&Cruise

This was formerly called “Blues on the Mall,” and now features classic cars, bikes, music, food and beverages–outside at the Delta Plex.  Listen to great blues bands while enjoying beer and food at this historic event.  Contact Marcus Bradman at Cumulus Broadcasting at (616)617-7061 for more details.

Thursday, June 25th   The David Warsen Honor Ride

Starting points will be the Davenport University (south) and Driftwood Inn (north) with kickstands up at 5:30p.m. (please arrive at least 1/2 hour early.)  Cars and motorcycles will then travel in a procession and converge in Downtown, Sparta, MI. for live music, food and beverages along with a special flag presentation to the family of the late David Warsen.   Contact Elizabeth Morse at 616-887-2454 or 218-0488 for vendor information or event details.

Friday, June 26th (9:00a.m. Shotgun Start)  The 2nd Annual Freedom Cruise Golf Classic

Four man scramble at Thornapple Point Golf Course.  Sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, all proceeds will go to the Finish the Mission Veteran Relief Fund.   Contact Josh Buckenroth at Fifth Third Bank to sign your group up, or for sponsoring opportunities.  Josh can be reached at (616) 654-2566.

Friday Night Cruise (4:00p.m. until dark)       freedom cruise

The Freedom Cruise is going “retro” as we welcome everyone to join us for a classic car and  bike cruise up and down Plainfield Ave on Friday afternoon and evening featuring Perrin VPA (Veterans Pale Ale) which will be served up and down the avenue generating revenue for West Michigan veterans.  Perrin VPA will also be poured at the Garage Bar & Grill Biker Block Party on Ottawa Avenue.  Great food, beer and live music will be featured on Ottawa Ave.

Saturday, June 27th (8:00a.m.-4:00p.m)

Plainfield Motor Mile Power Cruise featuring plenty of muscle cars, classics, bikes, vendors and fun–sponsored by the West Michigan Mustang Club and Plainfield Motor Mile & Village Motor Sports.  This is going to be an incredible day with all of the Plainfield automobile dealerships rolling out the red carpet for a great day of classic cars, cruising the strip and awards sponsored by the West Michigan Mustang Club.  All makes and models are welcome to attend and bike enthusiasts are welcome to visit the Village Motor sports open house.

Freedom Rocks Grand Rapids Concert (5:00p.m.)

This will be an event that will rock your summer as we escort the American Fallen Soldier Project and portrait of fallen West Michigan Navy Seal, David Warsen to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans Amphitheatre.   This event will honor the family of David Warsen, followed by a free concert featuring national recording artist Madison Rising.

Sunday, June 28th (1:00p.m.)   Blessing of the Rides

Classic cars, muscle cars and motorcycles are welcome at the Veterans Home for our closing ceremonies and blessings over all those who participate by the Christian Motorcycle Association.  Contact Ted Vonk for more information at (616)-874-2604 or (616)-822-0367.

For more event information go to www.freedomcruise.net.

Many Hands Against Hunger

Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities,

kathy_gray

We are fortunate to have a non-profit like Feeding America West Michigan in our community.  Recently, they held their summer fundraising luncheon honoring those individuals and organizations that have gone above and beyond to assist those in need of food assistance throughout West Michigan, as well as the Upper Peninsula. Ken Estelle, CEO of Feeding America West Michigan, shared that distribution was up 10% over last year, totaling 26.5 million pounds of food provided through associated pantries, mobile food trucks, and other hunger-relief agencies. Though the economy may be slowing improving, “a lot of people are still struggling,” stated Estelle. He emphasized that solving hunger here in our community requires “many hands” and the importance of organizations, corporations, churches, and individuals working together.

Feeding America Artwork by Local Artist Reb Roberts.
Feeding America Artwork by Local Artist Reb Roberts.

Honored this year was Food Donor, Kellogg Company, having donated over 740,000 pounds of food, as well as contributing an endless supply of volunteers and funding. The Nelis family were awarded the Excellence in Advocacy award for their tireless efforts in raising awareness. The Outstanding Partner Agency was awarded to Love INC Newaygo who serve over 900 families a month, running 15 mobile pantries. Since 2006 Love INC has distributed 3.8 million pounds of food. The Feeding America West Michigan Food Bank has over 3,00 volunteers, and Carole Griffeth was honored with the Exceptional Volunteer award, putting in 2400 hours of service since 2009.

While Feeding America and their many volunteer groups are known for distributing needed food assistance, perhaps the most engaging testimony of the day was given to a women who has been on the receiving end of assistance, Michele Childs.  She is currently a client of Streams of Hope, an affiliate of FAWM, located in the Townline community of Kentwood.  Just 3 years ago, Childs shared, she was told she was super morbidly obese. Super morbid obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 50+–normal being 19-24.

“At 40 years old I could not tie my shoes, get in or out of a bathtub, or fit in a restaurant booth,” she explained.

“I guess it’s true you are what you eat because I ate comfort foods, high in calories, carbs, sodium, and saturated fats.”

Childs and a dear friend, Charnette Perry, who was suffering from obesity, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, made a promise to each other to get healthy. After Charnette passed, at the age of 44, Childs felt the need to fulfill that promise. A struggling single mother of 2, having survived an abusive relationship, Childs was in a dark place and found herself at nearly 400 pounds. She admits that she was “clueless how to purchase and cook food” to improve her health. She needed help.

From Left to Right: Regina Thomas, Michelle Childs, and Barbara Nauta. Photo by Kathryn Gray
From Left to Right: Regina Thomas, Michelle Childs, and Barbara Nauta. Photo by Kathryn Gray

Knowing that she would do “whatever it took,” Childs underwent bariatric surgery in October 2011. Dealing with diabetes that was out of control, Childs’ dietician introduced her to the Spectrum Nutritional Options for Wellness (NOW) program at Streams of Hope. She shared that the first time she visited the food pantry she felt humiliated. Fortunately, Childs found that the staff and volunteers passed no judgment but were instead eager to help her with more than just food assistance. The staff provided not only calorie information but the right kinds of food, combined with exercise and education for making lifestyle changes.

Barbara Nauta, organizational leader for Streams of Hope, explains that beyond providing food assistance, SOH provides educational and emotional support, building relationships, mentoring, and meeting family needs, all leading to healthier communities. Streams of Hope currently serves 5800 families, providing 336,000 pounds of food, while providing exercise classes, student tutoring, and a community garden. As healthy lifestyle choices are not just for adults, SOH is gearing up for the 2nd annual World Cup Readers Soccer Camp, engaging kids in reading activities combined with games and sports, including a nightly cook-out.

Kathryn Gray Story 2
Michele Childs is surrounded by friends and supporters. Photo by Kathryn Gray

“Surgery is just a tool,” explains Childs. “The programs and classes at Streams of Hope helped me before and after.” Childs has a brighter outlook today. Currently she has lost 180 pounds. She was not flown to a glorious ranch, did not have a personal trainer at her beck and call for months, or compete for a $250,000 grand prize. Michele Childs made a promise and with the help of Streams of Hope, is a beautiful example of the Biggest Loser in Kentwood. She shines as she proclaims, “I eat right for my life!”

Feeding America West Michigan and Streams of Hope are always in need of help: be it volunteers, food donations, or monetary contributions. As Ken Estelle shared, there are still a lot of people struggling, wondering where their next meal will come from. One in four children in West Michigan are still considered “food insecure.” We all have a role to play in ensuring that those in need find the food resources available in our community. To volunteer, or to make food or monetary donations go to Feedingamericawestmichigan.org.

For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. Matthew 25:35

Friends go to Olympic Measures to Raise Money for Charity

How-To's, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Recreation,
Team Yellow wins the gold, Team Orange takes the silver and Team Purple claims the bronze - all for a good cause!
Team Yellow wins the gold, Team Orange takes the silver and Team Purple claims the bronze – all for a good cause!

by Mike Endres

Neighborhood Spring Olympics put the "fun" in fundraising.
Neighborhood Spring Olympics put the “fun” in fundraising.
Olym 2
Participants play for big bucks!

For the seventh year in a row, a group of local residents held their Spring Olympic games to raise money for charity.  These ‘backyard’ Olympics consist of eight teams of two players each.  Each team represents a charity that they are passionate about and pay a buy-in to compete in the games.  The team that wins the Olympics has the total purse donated to their favorite charity.

Prior to the big day, the teams vote on which games will be played.  This year the players chose bowling, ladder ball, washers, hockey, miniature golf, Nerf archery, pool, corn hole and ping pong. Although it rained the day of the event, participants couldn’t help but have an amazing time!

All participants are entitled to a cookout following the games.
All participants are entitled to a cookout following the games.

By the end of the competition, the Yellow Team (Jason and Ashley Martin) won it all for their charity, Family Life Today.  And just like in the traditional Olympics, the top three teams win gold, silver and bronze medals respectively.

In addition to overall winners, some individual events featured prizes thanks to generous local sponsors including Marge’s Donut Den, Park Center Lanes, Debbie’s Twist & Shake, Waste Management, blueVortex.net, and EP Adventures.

The coolest thing about this effort is that YOU too could plan a similar event as a means to have fun with friends and make a contribution to a good cause.  For information on how, contact event organizer Mike Endres at mike@blueVortex.net

Movers for Moms

Area Education, Community Health, Non-Profits, ,

Mother’s Day has always been a time of celebration and joy, but not for everyone. It may be a time of hardship if a Mom is going through troubles– spending time in a shelter due to domestic violence.

Movers for Moms has been there to make life a little bit easier for many abused women in the West Michigan community. Two Men and A Truck 2 Two Men And A Truck has teamed up with local churches, schools and child care centers to collect donations for women who have dealt with domestic abuse. They provide items for mothers and children such as clothes, toys, and other necessary belongings on Mothers Day to give them hope in the face of a crisis. It’s a program that is worked on year long and this is the 8th year.

One of the daycare facilities that helped out this year was Rainbow Child Care Center in Byron Center.  Stacy Shotko is their Regional Manager, and she is very excited about the Movers for Moms project.  Rainbow Child Care Center in Byron Center Rainbow Child Care Center Pic 2

“What a better place to do this project than at a child care center where we are seeing Moms and working with them every single day,” she explained.

Each year, Movers for Moms donates to a different local shelter and this year it’s Safe Haven Ministries.  This non-profit helps women and children who have been victims of domestic violence.

Ana Doonan, Development and Communications Director of Safe Haven is appreciative of all of the efforts of this highly successful campaign.

“The donations really takes the children’s minds away from abuse.  When you see them playing and reading books or watching movies, it is great,” she said.   Safe Haven Ministries

Last year was a record-breaking year with more than 220,000 items being collected and donated to shelters across the country. To find out how you can help, please visit: twomenandatruck.com       Two Men and a Truck

Donate Airline Miles to Make-A-Wish Michigan

Non-Profits,

Make-A-Wish-MichiganTrillions of airline miles go unused each year. Instead of letting them expire or using them for magazine subscriptions, those miles can easily be donated to change the lives of sick kids battling life-threatening illnesses right here in Michigan. This month, Make-A-Wish Michigan launched a month-long campaign – Give Wishes Wings – focusing on the unique and critical need Make-A-Wish has for airline miles. The campaign encourages travelers who have unused airline miles to consider donating them to help grant the 81 percent of Michigan wishes that are expected to require travel this fiscal year.

The process to donate miles is as simple as visiting givewisheswings.org, choosing from a number of airlines – including Alaska, American, Delta, Jet Blue and United – and entering a few pieces of information. The number of miles an individual can donate ranges from a few hundred miles* to millions. Donated miles never expire and are never used for anything other than wish travel for wish kids and their families.

Most people have seen or heard of a wish come true – whether it’s a 10-year-old boy visiting Hawaii to see flowing lava, a three-year-old girl meeting the host of a children’s television show, or a teenager being whisked away to a Hollywood movie premiere – miles away from the thought of treatment and the pain of hospital visits. However, few people recognize the resources Make-A-Wish Michigan requires to make wishes possible.

“Travel is a costly expense for our chapter,” said Karen Davis, Make-A-Wish Michigan president & CEO. “Donating airline miles is a little-known way for supporters to help us grant more life-changing wishes to bring hope, strength and joy to our wish kids.”

Supporters who do not have miles to donate, can also visit givewisheswings.org to make a monetary contribution.

Some estimates show there are more than 16 trillion frequent flier miles that go unused each year and some 25 percent of people let their miles expire or at the last minute use miles for magazine subscriptions or a one-time upgrade. In contrast, the impact of a wish can last a lifetime. In fact, medical professionals say wish experiences can improve children’s state of mind, make them more willing to comply with treatment requirements, and even influence their physical health. Former wish kids tell us their wish experience improved their health and strength; gave them more confidence and the will to pursue more challenging life goals; made them more philanthropic and compassionate; and even helped save their life.

Give Wishes Wings is the most ambitious airline miles initiative in Make-A-Wish history. Make-A-Wish Michigan will join Make-A-Wish chapters throughout the country in its activation of the April campaign, which includes brand new broadcast, print and online PSA and advertising features; a mobile optimized micro-site with real-time donation tracking; and a peer-to-peer challenge component that enlists social media to generate campaign support.

Head-shaving Fundraiser Supports Pediatric Cancer Research

Community Health, Non-Profits, Our Cities, ,

meghan_dooleyFor most people, St. Patrick’s Day typically includes spending time with friends and family having a few beers.

St. Baldrick's Foundation is a national non-profit organization that raises money for childhood cancer research.
St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a national non-profit organization that raises money for childhood cancer research.

But for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, St. Paddy’s day is spent a little differently.  The foundation celebrates the holiday through a head-shaving fundraiser to raise money for children’s cancer research.

St. Baldrick’s raises money all over the country for cancer research, and for a second year, the event took place in West Michigan. This year’s host was the 84th Street Pub and Grille in Byron Center. This year the event raised over $45,ooo!

Pat Schrager of Byron Center is St. Baldrick’s local event coordinator. “This is the seventh year I’ve done it. We were doing it in Indiana where we lived. When we came to Grand Rapids, we were surprised it wasn’t here.”

While shaving your head can certainly be difficult for anyone to face, when it comes to a good cause, most people are up for the challenge.

Volunteers step up to have their heads shaved to raise money.
Volunteers step up to have their heads shaved to raise money.

Bobbi Halas is one of those people. She faced the fear of shaving her head to give to the fundraiser.

“It was the weirdest feeling I’ve ever had and I was scared spitless,” Halas said. “But it’s such a great cause.”

Bobbi, along with many others, came out to show their support for children’s cancer research. Cancer survivor Allison Slagter was impressed.

“It’s really fun watching everyone so eager to shave their heads, because that’s kind of scary if they don’t want to,” Slagter said. “Everyone’s just really eager to donate”.

Money for cancer research doesn't grow on trees. But hair does grow on heads
Money for cancer research doesn’t grow on trees. But hair does grow on heads

Schrager explains that the St. Baldrick’s donations are also helping West Michigan local hospitals fund cancer research including the Children’s Oncology Fund, their largest benefactor. “And Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital participates in that,” adds Schrager.

Although the event is only in its second year in West Michigan, Schrager says the number of eager donors is growing.

“As you get people involved and start talking about it, they realize it’s only hair, it grows back,” Schrager said.

GR Native Teresa Thome Brings ‘Warm Cheese’ to the Stage

Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Non-Profits, WKTV Projects, ,
Teresa Thome
Teresa Thome, former director of Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, takes the stage at LaughFest.

janice_limbaughSure LaughFest brings in the big names of comedy to perform in Grand Rapids but it also gives local performers the chance to shine.

Grand Rapids native Teresa Thome is a writer, performer, comic and television producer with strong ties to the community, LaughFest and WKTV. On Sunday, March 8 she’ll be performing her one woman show called “Warm Cheese” at Dog Story Theater at 7 p.m.

Perhaps one of the most interesting show titles, “Warm Cheese” is Thome’s inspirational work in-progress account of her grief journey for her late mother. A journey that has had its struggles and its laughs. With humor and poignancy, Thome shares her revelation of waking up one morning and deciding she no longer wanted to hate her late mother. The performance is a part of LaughFest’s LaughterRx, a series of programming that highlights the health benefits of laughter and its importance in emotional health.

“I was writing about my mom long before she died,” Thome admits. “I was going to write a book about her because she was neurotic and crazy and a fascinating control freak. I could see writing a funny book called, ‘My Crazy Mom.'”

Instead, Thome was encouraged to take her experiences on stage after sharing  her stories at the Aquinas Women’s Writers Series. “I would read these stories in class and people would laugh,” says Thome adding, “I realized I was giving people permission to not grieve.

“Sometimes other people want you to be sadder than you actually are when someone dies. This is a story for all those people experiencing that.”

Thome is no stranger to LaughFest. Her involvement began the first year of the festival when she and her business partner, Patrick Ziegler, were asked to help produce the Signature Events. It’s been a most rewarding and challenging offer ever since.

“It gave me the opportunity to work with Betty White, Martin Short and to meet Alan Zweibel who helped Gilda develop all of her characters,” Thome says.

“He is a prolific writer who has offered to mentor me through my one woman show process. I reach out to him for an assist every once in a while and he gives me these little tools of insight. How can I be so lucky? I have to do this show!”

Can you blame her?

Although this is the third time Warm Cheese has been performed in Grand Rapids, Thome says it’s the first time it’s a full-length show. She’s looking forward to getting feedback from the audience to help her craft her story more to perfection. And when the time is right, Thome says she hopes to take it on the road.

“I’m grateful for so much of what I get to do when I get to do it,” says Thome. “My challenge personally is, I always want to do more.”

Thome has dual residences in Grand Rapids and Los Angeles to accommodate her career as a producer and writer. When she is in town and working on a television project, she comes to WKTV.

“We use WKTV because the spirit of the people here is so helpful and supportive. It’s such an amazing gift to the community.”

Thome and Patrick Ziegler are partners of Fubble Entertainment. Together they produced an Emmy Award winning web series (www.backstagedrama.com) through WKTV. They also produced the television show, Holiday Special, last year at the station.

“I’m glad more people are learning about what you have to offer here,” Thome says.

“But I want to say, ‘No this is my station,” she adds laughing.

 

 

 

“Take It Apart Day” Helps Kids Learn

Area Education, Local Business, Non-Profits, Senior Living, , , ,

deb_havensMost of us have no idea how our computer works or what tool you would need to fix one – and worse, no way to explain the mystery of modern technology to our kids. A group called GR Young Makers is out to change that. Recently about 150 6th graders from Godwin Heights were invited to find some answers to how things tick by taking things apart. A number of teachers volunteered to assist the students at the Grand Rapids Public Museum in an event called “Take It Apart Day.”

"Take it Apart Day" helps kids see how things work.
“Take it Apart Day” helps kids see how things work.

Robyn Bowles, Director of GR Young Makers, says the mission is to provide hands-on project-based learning opportunities for students and educators. The group has already visited classrooms in Jenison and Godwin Heights to introduce students and teachers to ways that science, math, and social studies can come together to help kids learn.

Lori Barr, 6th Grade Teacher at Pinewood Elementary in the Jenison Public Schools District says her students take things apart that would have ended up in a landfill and in the process learn about ecology and, “the mechanics involved…how electrons are involved in magnetics. So many things we’re learning about in the 6th grade are applied right before their very eyes.”

Tools are donated to help students explore the inner workings of machines.

Director Bowles says the group is an extension of GR Makers, a company that operates like a community tool shop and design studio to encourage people to try out ideas that may require expensive or hard-to-find tools and explore entrepreneurship. The GR Young Makers focus, however, is on students, educators and other community members.

One of the founders of GR Makers, Casey Du Bois, says, “This ‘take-it-apart’ thing has really taken off. We’ve got lots of free stuff so we’re hoping to be able to encourage other schools to do this.” The GR Makers have received hundreds of free tools from sponsors that make the GR Young Makers program possible as well.

So if you would like to fix a mechanical problem that can’t be solved by switching batteries, check out the GR Makers and think about inviting the GR Young Makers to visit your school. For more information contact https://www.grmakers.com/

Group Acts to Hold Banks, Corporations Accountable for Pollution

Area Education, Community Health, Non-Profits

divest signby Martie – Marthea Daling Jager

I have a life-long passion for Creation Care and Earth-keeping. Recently, I have discovered the online site called Green America and its wealth of resources on how to live in harmony with our Earth, including on how to advocate divesting.

Basically, divesting means refusing to invest in or use companies, products and processes that damage people and pollute our planet, or if you already own products or stock in those companies, it means shifting your dollars and purchasing power to protest their continuing actions that abuse our planet and ultimately us, the people who live here.

Green America has a long history of exposing harmful fossil fuels (coal, oil, and gas carbon) extraction as well as consumption. For me, Creation Care includes divesting from fossil fuel companies and reducing consumptive lifestyles and use of their products and processes. This also includes divesting from big banks, multinational corporations and associated credit cards intertwined with fossil fuels that pollute and exploit the disenfranchised, the marginalized and the planet.

It further involves reinvesting into clean renewable energy (NOT nuclear) and into life and community-building alternatives.

Green advocacy groups, such as Green America and others, have long been concerned over the devastation and pollution from fossil fuels, including their extraction, consumptive use and end-products. At the present rate of escalating use, fossil fuel emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere are causing catastrophic and irreversible  man-made global warming and climate change. The results are grave effects on our planet’s health (human and animal) and human rights.

I agree with Bill McKibben of 350.org that in order to preserve our planet, carbon dioxide formed by extraction and consumption of fossil fuels, MUST be reduced from current levels in the atmosphere to below 350 parts per million. Advocates, including Green America, urge this reduction, and for us to make clean-energy economy a reality by refusing to invest in companies that are destroying our planet. They further urge the shifting of investment and purchase dollars into alternative, clean, renewable energy such as solar, wind and hydro. These sources prove to be more life and community enhancing. This can also be achieved by supporting public policies and lifestyles that move us away from fossil fuels.

To me, divesting and reinvesting are crucial for the common good! My identity is in life-long, deep soul-searching passion for Biblical Christian faith and discipleship to Jesus Christ. My passion flows with the mission of Creation Care: stewardship, equality, solution-focused global and local justice for people and the planet; in other words, living simply so that others may simply live.

Note: Martie Jager recently presented at the series Our Changing Climate & Positive Earthkeeping Responses presented by Hope Reformed Church at Burton St. and 2210 Kalamazoo Ave in Grand Rapids. The sessions run 11:15 a.m. until noon every Sunday through May 3 (except Easter). The schedule for the remaining sessions is below:

Part II: The Church

Sunday, March 8                              Caretakers of the Earth – Steve Bouma-Prediger

Sunday, March 15                            What’s Happened at Hope Church, Holland?  Peter Boogaart

Part III:  Local/Regional Issues & Efforts

Sunday, March 22                            Grand Rapids and its Environment – GR Mayor George Heartwell