Science projects don’t have to be expensive.  Here are some simple science experiments you can do with your kids with things you have right in your own kitchen.

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

Bugs play an important role in the work they do at the John Ball Zoo.

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

Ferris State University has many career paths for students interested in the science field.

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

Last week I had the chance to participate in a special reading celebration at Southwest Community Campus in Grand Rapids.

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

This weekend on “Where You Live” it’s an explosion of science  fun!  We’ll visit the Public Museum of Grand Rapids to check out the new exhibit, “Big, Big, Bugs!”.  We’ll also stop by the John Ball Zoo to see some amazing insects!  Plus, Fifth Third Bank experts will share simple, inexpensive science projects to try with your kids!   We’ll also talk with experts at the VanAndel Institute and Ferris State University to get their best tips on fostering a love of science in your kids!    Bring science to life this weekend-”Where You Live”  Saturday-7:30 a.m. and p.m. on WOTV 4 and 6:30 p.m. on WOOD TV 8.

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

Here are some fun things going on this weekend…..Where You Live!

Butterflies are Blooming
Now through Saturday, April 30
Frederik Meijer Gardens – Grand Rapids
www.meijergardens.org
See over 6,000 beautiful butterflies flying freely inside the Garden’s botanical garden.

HPA Presents “Annie”
Thursday, March 4 through Saturday, March 6
Caledonia High School Fine Arts Center
www.hpami.org
The Homeschool Performing Arts is putting on “Annie.”  This production is made up of over 100 homeschoolers from West Michigan.  Tickets are $7.50 in advance or $8.50 at the door.

West Michigan Home and Garden Show
Thursday, March 4 through Sunday, March 7
DeVos Place – Grand Rapids
www.showspan.com
Start thinking spring with the Home and Garden show.  Attend free seminars and visit over 350 booths with home and garden information.

Welcome Back Party!
Saturday, March 6 from 10am-2pm
John Ball Zoo – Grand Rapids
www.johnballzoosociety.org
The John Ball Zoo is officially back open and they’re celebrating!  Come out for special events and activities.  Admission is $3.50 for adults, $3.00 for kids 3-13 years old and kids under two are free.

Sugarbush Festival
Saturday, March 6 at 10am
Blandford Nature Center – Grand Rapids
www.blandfordnaturecenter.org
Learn about traditional and contemporary means of maple syrup making! From tapping to bottling to sampling this all-natural treat.  Get in touch with nature and hike the trails while you’re there.  Cost is $3 per person.

Read all »

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

Even though I’ve been blessed enough to be involved in the running/walking community for close to 20 years, I’m constantly amazed at the generosity within the sport.  Runners and walkers alike, love to share what they know with others.  They never hesitate to provide advice, encouragement and support to those new to the track or the road.  It is this spirit of generosity that has allowed events like the Fifth Third River Bank Run to flourish in this community.

Read all »

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

It’s official….our 2010 Park Party dates and locations are set.  It’s going to be another great summer and we hope you can join us!

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

Today I want to wish Dr. Seuss a happy birthday!  Reading is one of my three favorite things.  The other two things are food and baseball, but because the Whitecaps only play from April until September, I stay busy in the offseason by reading books. 

Did you know March is National Reading month?   I love March because I get to help with our Reading Club program and go to classrooms around town.  Today I went to Coit Creative Arts and read to some kids.  Actually, my friend read while I tried to act.  Like I said before, today is Dr. Seuss’ birthday, so we read my favorite story by him “And to Think That I Saw it on Mulberry Street.”

After the story the kids took an oath to keep reading.  It was so cool.  I learn so much when I read, and it is so much fun to see other people excited about reading.  Happy March!

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments

It gives me great pleasure to announce the winners of two of our HUGE February contests:

Boyne Mountain Ski and Splash Get-Away

1.  Pam Jones of Portage

2.  Heidi Storms of Grand Rapids

Crowne Plaza Hotel in Novi Overnight Adventure

1.  Karolyn Buozis of Hart

We will also be sending out 100 “Finding Nemo” tickets to our winners today!  So watch your mailbox!

Thanks to the thousands of friends for entering our contests this month!

Permalink  |  Bookmark  |  View Comments