WEBVTT
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From the cast on stage and cruise behind the curtain to community partners supporting efforts to bring professional Broadway performances to West Michigan.
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Plus, all things in between, this is BGR's Backstage Buzz.
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Hey friends, I'm Jennifer Pasqua, Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement at Broadway Grand Rapids.
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And I'm Steve Stecketty, producer, Broadway fan, and proud BGR ambassador.
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We're talking about a show that may require a very generous donation of tissues from our season sponsor Meyer.
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9,000 to be exact, Steve.
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9,000?
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It got dropped off.
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Because the notebook is bringing all the feels.
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If you've seen the movie, you already know what we're talking about, Jen.
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But if you haven't, well, prepare yourself.
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I wanna go back.
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I wanna go back to the good old days.
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Counting up kits, counting the lines written on our faces.
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Based on the best-selling novel that inspired the iconic film, the notebook tells the story of Allie and Noah, two people from very different worlds who find a love that spans a lifetime, despite the forces determined to pull them apart.
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And now that beloved story is on the Broadway stage with music and lyrics by multi-platinum singer-songwriter Ingrid Michelson, who I love.
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They're bringing these characters and this unforgettable love story to life in an entirely new way.
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It's romantic, it's emotional, it's beautiful.
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And did we mention the tissues?
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You're gonna want the tissues.
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I have a pocket full, Jen.
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Well, joining us is a Michigan alum who is a swing for the notebook and also is an understudy for the role of younger Allie, Samantha Rios.
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Welcome.
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Hi, thanks for having me.
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How are you doing on this fine October morning?
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I'm so good.
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So excited to chat with y'all.
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And we are with you.
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So where are we catching you today?
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I'm currently in Dayton, Ohio.
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Okay, Dayton, Ohio.
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And how is the tour going so far?
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Oh, amazing.
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We've been on the road for a year.
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And so I'm just so excited to be going back to the Midwest.
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Um, and so excited to go to Grand Rapids soon.
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Well, you have been in Michigan, obviously.
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I mean, you graduated from Michigan, and how long were you actually here?
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And did you at that point get a chance to visit Grand Rapids?
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Yeah, yeah.
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I studied musical theater at the University of Michigan for four years, and I graduated back in 2023.
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So it was my first time coming back since I graduated last week, and I got to go to Ann Arbor and see campus, and I haven't been to Grand Rapids yet, so I'm so, so excited to check it out.
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Oh, well, we're definitely the best city in Michigan, as I think every you know city claims.
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Oh, we have a ton to offer.
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We think you're gonna love it here.
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But I want to jump into this thing about we've we've spoken with swings before, and and you have multiple roles on the show here, but I've always been fascinated by this between playing a role consistently and having to jump around.
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So can you tell us a little bit, A, briefly about what a swing is, our audience may know, and how you get ready every night to step into someone else's place, sometimes, you know, at kind of a moment's notice, correct?
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Yeah, yeah.
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So a swing is an understudy.
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We understudy multiple roles.
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So currently I cover four different roles.
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I primarily do younger Ally.
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I'll jump in for Sarah, Georgie, Nurse Joanna.
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And yeah, it's really being ready at any moment's notice.
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I am always practicing the show.
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I'm always, you know, singing the show.
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I'm also the dance captain.
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So I know this show inside and out.
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I know all the moving pieces to it for every part of the show.
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So that really helps me, honestly, because I don't need to do a lot of line refreshers because I'm always watching the show as the dance captain and taking notes as well.
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But I'm always, you know, staying healthy and trying to practice because it is a lot of work, you know, quick changes.
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There's a lot of stuff happening backstage.
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So I'm always running around my hotel room and singing my big songs.
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And you plus you have to hold the mental space to be able to jump back and forth between, even if it's a line or two or just a dance move, you know, right?
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You have to really be malleable in your own brain to pick up and just jump to these pieces each night.
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Yeah.
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And this is my first time swinging.
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So it's been a learning journey, but it's been so much fun.
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It's so exciting sometimes, you know, to get to do Younger Alley one night and then get to do Nurse Joanna the next night.
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You're really like being a part of every every piece of the show.
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You know, Samantha, you come from a big group from Michigan.
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We've interviewed many Michigan connection uh cast members.
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What do you think it is about that particular school that produces all of these talented Broadway actors?
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Yeah.
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Oh, you know, it's it's a big program.
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It's it has like, you know, less than a 2% acceptance rate.
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And going auditioning for that program was my dream.
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And getting in, and I was in a class of 22 people.
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Okay.
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So it's it's a very intimate setting, and you get to learn a lot.
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I mean, I had the best teachers, the best professors.
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I was always in voice lessons, and I feel like they take the training really seriously there, and they really do prepare you for New York and Broadway.
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And I just feel like I was set up with success and was able to showcase and, you know, got an idiot outside and right as I graduated, and it was it was awesome.
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And I've been in New York for, you know, I was there for a year and a half, and then I was able to get this, and it's been a dream come true, full circle coming back to Michigan.
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No kidding.
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Hey, with the Michigan Performance Outreach workshop, you helped bring the arts to kids.
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Was there one reaction from them that reminded you of something about performing that maybe you lost sight of during your own training?
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Totally.
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Oh my gosh, I loved working with MPOW and working with the kids.
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And we would have workshops with them, and some of us would lead like choreo intensives and writing music classes, and it was just so exciting to, you know, bring the arts to Michigan students and to the students in the area.
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I also was teaching voice lessons outside of SNTD and like teaching little kids in Ann Arbor, and that was always so exciting to just see the joy of, you know, theater's so magical at that age.
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Well, we like to jump around here uh on the podcast here.
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So I want to talk about a little bit about some of the technique that you might have to go through.
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So you're playing younger Allie and the audience, and we're not giving anything away, but if you're even remotely familiar with the show, the audience kind of knows where life is heading for her, but she doesn't quite yet the way the show is laid out.
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So how do you manage to keep your choices spontaneous each night with the information that you have?
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Yeah.
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Well, she helps me a lot because she is spunky and curious and she's always asking so many questions, and she's just so full of life at 16.
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So that helps me go into the show every night and just be like, okay, from the top, I don't know anything.
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Let's go.
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And also as a swing, I get to try something new every night with every role.
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And so I think that also keeps the story fresh for me as well.
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Very nice.
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One other question here.
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So your bio says para mi familia.
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If you're and I hope I didn't butcher saying that that way.
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You gotta roll the R, Steve.
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Roll the R.
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Para you roll the R's.
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Uh but if your family could recognize something about themselves in your performance in the notebook or something you may project to them, what would you want that to be?
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Yeah.
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I think this show is a celebration of life and love.
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And so I really hope that they see that this is a celebration of a lifetime of love and an enduring love and the perseverance of love.
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And so I hope that they get to see that whenever whenever I get to do the show.
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And on that.
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That is very wonderful.
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Yeah, yeah.
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Okay, so I have one just corny question because I'm curious.
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You know, in in terms of playing a first love, has your first love come and seen you perform yet?
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First, fourth, second, or second, third, I don't know.
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Yes, he did.
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He really did to see me.
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Yes.
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I love that.
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So great.
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And did that change your performance?
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Did that did that make it ring differently while you were up there on stage?
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You know, I don't think so.
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I think, yeah, I think, you know, the show is, you know, every I I most of the time I've been lucky, people have gotten to come see me in the show.
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So it's always a little nerve-wracking.
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I'm like, oh my God, you know, my family's here, my friends are here, and I just have to give them a performance of a lifetime.
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But as it's going, it's so exciting to go on.
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And so I think every time I'm just really excited.
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And um it's been it's been really great getting to do these shows and be lucky that I have people in certain cities and they've gotten come out to see me.
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Um, so like yeah, I think sometimes, you know, it gives it gives me a little bit more nerves going on stage, but it doesn't change the performance.
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Yeah.
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Well, hey, we have so enjoyed getting to know you, Samantha.
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And when you get here, we're gonna probably bombard you with more questions.
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But for now, we want to play a game with you.
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Are you game to do that?
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Yeah.
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You in there?
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Ali's parents called the police.
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They got every car on the street out looking for you.
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They're calling you a kidnapper.
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What?
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You gotta get out of here, man.
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Just give me a minute.
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Noah, come on! I need a minute.
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Go keep a lookout for me, okay?
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I can't go to jail, Noah.
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They don't let you in the army if you go to jail.
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Nobody is going to jail.
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You are?
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If they find you here with her.
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See, we're gonna call it keep the page or tear it out of your notebook.
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So we're gonna ask just a couple this or that kind of uh questions to you.
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And we'd love for you to tell us if that's a page you would keep in your own notebook of life or one that you would tear out.
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Think you can come along on this journey?
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Yes.
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Okay, okay, here we go.
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Number one, handwritten love letters.
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Keep that page.
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I agree with you.
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Dating someone else in the cast.
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Oh, oh no, tear.
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Okay, a big romantic gesture in public.
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Keep or yeah, keep.
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Okay, okay.
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Staying friends with an ex.
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Tear.
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It just depends on the ex, I think.
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Yeah, right?
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Yeah, I think it depends, yes.
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But you know, I gotta protect my peace.
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Yes, and we have to be literal.
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It's either keep that page or tear it out.
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So yeah.
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All right.
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Taking relationship advice from your family.
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Keep, definitely.
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Okay, ooh, surprise visits while you're on tour.
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I know that's really broad, but yeah, keep.
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It's always nice to see a familiar face.
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Yeah, maybe that'll happen when you're here in Michigan.
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You know, you're all all your fan club will be here.
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Yeah.
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Sad songs when you're already sad.
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Keep.
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I love doing that.
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I know sometimes you just need a good cry, right?
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Yes.
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Watching the movie before playing the role.
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Yes, keep.
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Definitely.
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I gotta do my research.
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Yes, true.
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Okay, someone you love sitting in the front row.
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Keep.
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I do love that.
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You know, I want to get them the best seats in the house.
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And I think we may know the answer to this based on previous conversation, but giving your first love a second chance.
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Yeah, Keep.
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Oh, okay.
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All right, all right.
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I think that was pretty good.
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Samantha, this was so much fun getting to know you.
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Uh, we can't wait till you get here to Grand Rapids.
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I'm so, so excited.
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Thanks for chatting with me.
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Yeah, you you're gonna love it here, and we can't wait to see you.
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Thank you.
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Okay, bye-bye.
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Bye.
00:12:21.759 --> 00:12:24.000
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00:12:53.600 --> 00:13:01.679
All right, we're back, and we have a very special guest with us today who will be talking to us a little bit further about what the adjus told us.
00:13:01.840 --> 00:13:07.919
Funnily enough, though, I think you and I both qualified this year for this uh with our recent birthdays.
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Uh milestone, milestone birthday.
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Big milestone.
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Cards are showing up in the mail, and it's all very exciting and very new.
00:13:14.240 --> 00:13:22.799
But today we are here with the Senior Associate State Director of AARP Michigan, Jennifer Feerstein Davita, to tell us a little bit more.
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Good afternoon, Jennifer.
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How are you today?
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I'm good.
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How are you doing?
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I I do want to, I'm laughing because I was hearing you talk about that you both uh got your membership.
00:13:32.639 --> 00:13:36.639
However, the biggest myth is that you have to be like 50 to be a member.
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You actually only have to be 18.
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So I know that you guys are both just in your 20s, and so yes, you do qualify.
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Is that why I've been getting the cards for many, many years ago?
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That's why it's not because we just turned 50, Steve.
00:13:50.159 --> 00:13:51.600
Well, thank you for letting us know that.
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We had no idea.
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I bet a lot of people on the other side of this are gonna be understanding that a little bit better, too.
00:13:57.279 --> 00:14:00.080
So can you tell us a little bit more about the organization, please?
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So AERP's mission is to empower people to choose how they live as they age.
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And that's like the formal state, but really what we do, it's just about making sure that people are equipped to live their best lives.
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And we provide all of the tools and the resources and the support that people need to be able to age with dignity, be able to have the life carved out for themselves that they want, and to equip them really to just uh live their best life and have a quality life.
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Well, one nice thing is that if you become a member, at least with Broadway Grand Rapids, you get some benefits too.
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You want to talk about that?
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Yes.
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And this go this is uh beyond uh members as well.
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So members and guests can get this discount.
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And we have such a great partnership with Broadway Grand Rapids to be able to offer this to older adults.
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And so we provide uh discounted tickets and people can get their tickets for up to 20% off, plus they don't pay taxes or fees, and it has been just such a great collaboration with Broadway Grand Rapids, and I can tell you that people that tap into this discount absolutely love it and then our repeat customers.
00:15:14.879 --> 00:15:29.360
And partly part of the reason that we picked this is because of the focus on brain health, and this is a big focus of AARPs when we're talking about trying to protect people from developing Alzheimer's or other dementias.
00:15:29.600 --> 00:15:35.600
So if people want to learn more, they can go to AARP.org slash MI.
00:15:36.000 --> 00:15:46.320
And when it comes to our brain health support and cognitive uh function, people can go to AARP.org slash staying sharp.
00:15:46.399 --> 00:15:51.600
So we have all kinds of resources and ways for people to tap into AARP's resources.
00:15:51.840 --> 00:15:52.240
All right.
00:15:52.320 --> 00:15:53.440
Thank you so much for sharing.
00:15:53.519 --> 00:15:54.480
We'll see you at the show.
00:15:54.720 --> 00:15:55.120
Thank you.
00:15:55.279 --> 00:15:56.399
Looking forward to it.
00:15:56.639 --> 00:16:02.000
Given the storyline of the notebook and its arrival here in West Michigan, it felt like a natural connection.
00:16:02.159 --> 00:16:09.600
Broadway Grand Rapids reached out to the Alzheimer's Association Michigan chapter and invited them to be the community partner for the show.
00:16:09.840 --> 00:16:11.600
And the timing couldn't have been more perfect.
00:16:11.759 --> 00:16:20.559
Their walk to N Alzheimer's was already on the calendar, creating another meaningful connection between the story we're bringing to the stage and the work happening right here in our community.
00:16:20.720 --> 00:16:27.840
And joining us now, Margaret Howard to tell us more about the walk, the Alzheimer's Association, and why this partnership means so much.
00:16:28.159 --> 00:16:34.320
So, Margaret, we were able to take part in the walk to N Alzheimer's in Grand Rapids.
00:16:34.480 --> 00:16:35.919
What a huge turnout.
00:16:36.000 --> 00:16:37.360
It really did surprise me.
00:16:37.519 --> 00:16:38.399
Oh my goodness.
00:16:38.559 --> 00:16:40.320
It was, wasn't it just beautiful?
00:16:40.639 --> 00:16:46.559
Just the joy, the love in the air, the sense that everyone felt I'm not alone.
00:16:46.639 --> 00:16:47.759
We're in this together.
00:16:47.919 --> 00:16:49.759
It was just remarkable, Jennifer.
00:16:50.080 --> 00:16:53.120
Is this the largest turnout you've had in years past?
00:16:53.679 --> 00:16:56.320
It is the largest in recent past.
00:16:56.720 --> 00:17:02.559
We had 688 people signed up, 112 teams.
00:17:02.879 --> 00:17:15.680
We had folks from businesses, um, we had folks from the healthcare industry, we had folks from retirement communities in their 80s walking with us in memory of folks.
00:17:15.839 --> 00:17:17.200
We had so many stories.
00:17:17.359 --> 00:17:18.960
It was just absolutely beautiful.
00:17:19.200 --> 00:17:20.880
Yeah, and that is a beautiful thing.
00:17:20.960 --> 00:17:37.039
And really why I think for me this partnership means so much, because for those who don't have Alzheimer's as part of their day-to-day, learning from others through their stories, that was really the touching part for us to hear when people were coming up to our table.
00:17:37.359 --> 00:17:38.160
Absolutely.
00:17:38.319 --> 00:17:47.839
You know, the one thing that we know is that there are over 7.2 million Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer's or some other form of dementia.
00:17:48.160 --> 00:17:53.599
Here in Michigan, over 202,000 people diagnosed.
00:17:53.839 --> 00:17:59.039
Here in Kent County, over 12,000 individuals diagnosed.
00:17:59.200 --> 00:18:10.559
And so whether it affects us personally through a family member, we likely know a friend or a colleague or someone's story has impacted us in some way.
00:18:10.799 --> 00:18:20.960
Once we really start talking to folks, and it is really, you know, we never want anyone to feel like they're alone or struggling or suffering in silence.
00:18:21.200 --> 00:18:27.440
And so gathering folks together, hearing those stories and letting folks know we are here for you.
00:18:27.839 --> 00:18:32.400
It is just, it's the name of the game as we come together to try to find a cure.
00:18:32.640 --> 00:18:35.920
You know, Margaret, it is such an important work that you're doing here.
00:18:36.000 --> 00:18:36.720
I wonder if we may.
00:18:36.799 --> 00:18:42.000
I'm going to back up just a little bit and just give a little overview context before uh jumping into a couple other questions.
00:18:42.160 --> 00:18:50.559
So can we walk back and just tell me a little bit about the Alzheimer's Association of Michigan and Midwest, uh, what you do and what you're offering for people?
00:18:51.039 --> 00:18:52.000
Absolutely.
00:18:52.240 --> 00:18:59.680
So I oversee the Grand Rapids Walk to End Alzheimer's, and we have 21 walks throughout the state of Michigan.
00:18:59.920 --> 00:19:03.359
We have 600 walks around the country.
00:19:03.599 --> 00:19:15.920
But here in Michigan and throughout the country, we want folks to know that we focus on three things support, education in the community, and supporting researchers.
00:19:16.160 --> 00:19:18.240
So we want folks to know.
00:19:18.480 --> 00:19:23.920
And and you know, we have a 24-7 line that assists people.
00:19:24.559 --> 00:19:35.039
And it is not just a health line, it is staffed 24 hours a day by master's level licensed social workers.
00:19:35.359 --> 00:19:38.960
So we want folks to know um, you know, what do we do?
00:19:39.119 --> 00:19:40.799
Again, we're providing support.
00:19:41.039 --> 00:19:42.720
We're providing education.
00:19:43.039 --> 00:19:44.880
We are working with researchers.
00:19:45.039 --> 00:20:02.160
So whether it's two in the morning and we're taking a call, or whether it's two in the afternoon and we are at a business working with an HR director to support employees and raise awareness and education for employees who oftentimes are caring for a loved one.
00:20:02.319 --> 00:20:04.880
Again, the ripple effect is unbelievable.
00:20:05.039 --> 00:20:07.759
So the work that we do, it's continuous.
00:20:07.839 --> 00:20:10.640
It's year-round, it's day in and day out.
00:20:11.039 --> 00:20:31.200
And uh what I love so much about this partnership, and I could just go on and on forever, is that this gives us an opportunity to let folks know this disease, folks that are struggling with this, caring for loved ones, it is relevant every day of the year, not just at walk time.
00:20:31.599 --> 00:20:39.519
And so love this partnership with the notebook to allow us in Broadway Grand Rapids to continue to keep this critical conversation going.
00:20:39.759 --> 00:20:43.519
And it is such a natural partnership, obviously, with the storyline of the notebook.
00:20:43.680 --> 00:20:44.720
Can you elaborate a little bit?
00:20:44.799 --> 00:20:48.799
So these walks take place, you know, all during the the year.
00:20:48.960 --> 00:20:52.480
Um and they're they're involving the people, they're involving donations.
00:20:52.559 --> 00:20:58.000
Can you kind of uh talk a little bit about what one can expect or what can one can be part of with these walks?
00:20:58.400 --> 00:21:10.079
I have to tell you that the thing that I am just so incredibly impressed with, with the work of the Alzheimer's Association, are our volunteers.
00:21:10.480 --> 00:21:24.319
We could not raise the money, we could not do the work that we do without every single volunteer that we rely on to pull off blocks to end Alzheimer's throughout the state, throughout the country.
00:21:25.599 --> 00:21:34.480
We are the largest fundraiser for global research, and these funds predominantly are raised by volunteers.
00:21:34.640 --> 00:21:35.839
They are individuals.
00:21:36.079 --> 00:21:43.039
I'll give you an example 82-year-old Ben who called me and said, I saw one of your signs in front of my community.
00:21:43.200 --> 00:21:46.960
I'd like to form a team and walk in memory of my wife, Darlene.
00:21:47.279 --> 00:21:51.200
I use a walker, but I've been training three miles a day.
00:21:51.440 --> 00:21:53.440
Can you tell me how long your walk is?
00:21:53.680 --> 00:21:56.880
And I'm like, Ben, I mean he just had me in tears.
00:21:57.039 --> 00:21:58.880
I got to meet him at the walk.
00:21:59.039 --> 00:22:02.960
He formed a team of 12 people from his retirement community.
00:22:03.359 --> 00:22:06.319
They all showed up and walked with fabulous.
00:22:06.880 --> 00:22:16.319
I I just get goosebumps when I think about all of the stories of why people walk, and it is volunteerism at its brightest.
00:22:16.480 --> 00:22:23.519
It is unbelievable what people are doing, how they are investing to support others and find a cure.
00:22:23.759 --> 00:22:28.079
And you're going to be at our show, the notebook, throughout the duration of the performance.
00:22:28.160 --> 00:22:30.640
You're going to have a table there so people can come and learn more.
00:22:30.799 --> 00:22:38.960
But if for some reason they're not coming to the show, give me the website so that people can get a hold of you and learn more.org.
00:22:39.119 --> 00:22:57.599
When you go to our website, it will help you drill down to the Grand Rapids location, me personally, and the resources are unbelievable that are available to an individual, whether they have been diagnosed themselves, perhaps with early onset, a loved one, a caregiver.
00:22:57.920 --> 00:23:01.200
The resources are unbelievable at that website.
00:23:01.440 --> 00:23:09.359
And Margaret, being partnering with Broadway at for this particular show, what are you most excited about to be there during this run?
00:23:09.599 --> 00:23:10.960
Oh boy, so many things.
00:23:11.039 --> 00:23:21.119
But these are what I call critical conversations, raising awareness, providing education, a phone number for people to call, education.
00:23:21.359 --> 00:23:29.039
The Alzheimer's Association also, we're we're reaching younger audiences around prevention and brain health.
00:23:29.279 --> 00:23:33.119
So all of these conversations, let's talk about it.
00:23:33.359 --> 00:23:36.160
It is a difficult conversation to have.
00:00:01.600 --> 00:00:10.160
From the cast on stage and cruise behind the curtain to community partners supporting efforts to bring professional Broadway performances to West Michigan.
00:00:10.400 --> 00:00:14.800
Plus, all things in between, this is BGR's Backstage Buzz.
00:00:17.679 --> 00:00:23.199
Hey friends, I'm Jennifer Pasqua, Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement at Broadway Grand Rapids.
00:00:23.280 --> 00:00:28.320
And I'm Steve Stecketty, producer, Broadway fan, and proud BGR ambassador.
00:00:34.719 --> 00:00:41.119
We're talking about a show that may require a very generous donation of tissues from our season sponsor Meyer.
00:00:41.359 --> 00:00:43.039
9,000 to be exact, Steve.
00:00:43.200 --> 00:00:43.759
9,000?
00:00:44.159 --> 00:00:45.119
It got dropped off.
00:00:45.280 --> 00:00:48.320
Because the notebook is bringing all the feels.
00:00:48.560 --> 00:00:51.200
If you've seen the movie, you already know what we're talking about, Jen.
00:00:51.280 --> 00:00:54.479
But if you haven't, well, prepare yourself.
00:01:00.320 --> 00:01:02.079
I wanna go back.
00:01:02.479 --> 00:01:07.519
I wanna go back to the good old days.
00:01:08.480 --> 00:01:15.680
Counting up kits, counting the lines written on our faces.
00:01:15.920 --> 00:01:29.760
Based on the best-selling novel that inspired the iconic film, the notebook tells the story of Allie and Noah, two people from very different worlds who find a love that spans a lifetime, despite the forces determined to pull them apart.
00:01:30.000 --> 00:01:38.640
And now that beloved story is on the Broadway stage with music and lyrics by multi-platinum singer-songwriter Ingrid Michelson, who I love.
00:01:38.799 --> 00:01:44.560
They're bringing these characters and this unforgettable love story to life in an entirely new way.
00:01:44.799 --> 00:01:47.680
It's romantic, it's emotional, it's beautiful.
00:01:47.920 --> 00:01:49.200
And did we mention the tissues?
00:01:49.280 --> 00:01:50.640
You're gonna want the tissues.
00:01:50.799 --> 00:01:52.319
I have a pocket full, Jen.
00:01:52.560 --> 00:02:00.640
Well, joining us is a Michigan alum who is a swing for the notebook and also is an understudy for the role of younger Allie, Samantha Rios.
00:02:01.040 --> 00:02:01.599
Welcome.
00:02:01.840 --> 00:02:03.599
Hi, thanks for having me.
00:02:03.840 --> 00:02:06.560
How are you doing on this fine October morning?
00:02:06.799 --> 00:02:07.680
I'm so good.
00:02:07.840 --> 00:02:09.680
So excited to chat with y'all.
00:02:10.000 --> 00:02:10.639
And we are with you.
00:02:10.719 --> 00:02:11.919
So where are we catching you today?
00:02:12.080 --> 00:02:13.599
I'm currently in Dayton, Ohio.
00:02:13.840 --> 00:02:14.800
Okay, Dayton, Ohio.
00:02:14.879 --> 00:02:16.719
And how is the tour going so far?
00:02:17.039 --> 00:02:18.080
Oh, amazing.
00:02:18.240 --> 00:02:20.479
We've been on the road for a year.
00:02:20.800 --> 00:02:25.039
And so I'm just so excited to be going back to the Midwest.
00:02:25.280 --> 00:02:27.840
Um, and so excited to go to Grand Rapids soon.
00:02:28.080 --> 00:02:30.879
Well, you have been in Michigan, obviously.
00:02:31.039 --> 00:02:34.800
I mean, you graduated from Michigan, and how long were you actually here?
00:02:34.879 --> 00:02:37.919
And did you at that point get a chance to visit Grand Rapids?
00:02:38.159 --> 00:02:38.719
Yeah, yeah.
00:02:38.879 --> 00:02:45.520
I studied musical theater at the University of Michigan for four years, and I graduated back in 2023.
00:02:46.000 --> 00:02:56.479
So it was my first time coming back since I graduated last week, and I got to go to Ann Arbor and see campus, and I haven't been to Grand Rapids yet, so I'm so, so excited to check it out.
00:02:56.800 --> 00:03:01.680
Oh, well, we're definitely the best city in Michigan, as I think every you know city claims.
00:03:01.759 --> 00:03:02.800
Oh, we have a ton to offer.
00:03:02.879 --> 00:03:04.000
We think you're gonna love it here.
00:03:04.159 --> 00:03:15.120
But I want to jump into this thing about we've we've spoken with swings before, and and you have multiple roles on the show here, but I've always been fascinated by this between playing a role consistently and having to jump around.
00:03:15.199 --> 00:03:27.439
So can you tell us a little bit, A, briefly about what a swing is, our audience may know, and how you get ready every night to step into someone else's place, sometimes, you know, at kind of a moment's notice, correct?
00:03:27.680 --> 00:03:28.319
Yeah, yeah.
00:03:28.479 --> 00:03:30.719
So a swing is an understudy.
00:03:30.960 --> 00:03:33.199
We understudy multiple roles.
00:03:33.439 --> 00:03:36.400
So currently I cover four different roles.
00:03:36.560 --> 00:03:38.479
I primarily do younger Ally.
00:03:38.560 --> 00:03:43.120
I'll jump in for Sarah, Georgie, Nurse Joanna.
00:03:43.280 --> 00:03:46.879
And yeah, it's really being ready at any moment's notice.
00:03:47.199 --> 00:03:49.120
I am always practicing the show.
00:03:49.280 --> 00:03:51.039
I'm always, you know, singing the show.
00:03:51.120 --> 00:03:52.719
I'm also the dance captain.
00:03:52.960 --> 00:03:55.680
So I know this show inside and out.
00:03:55.919 --> 00:04:00.240
I know all the moving pieces to it for every part of the show.
00:04:00.400 --> 00:04:09.919
So that really helps me, honestly, because I don't need to do a lot of line refreshers because I'm always watching the show as the dance captain and taking notes as well.
00:04:10.240 --> 00:04:19.360
But I'm always, you know, staying healthy and trying to practice because it is a lot of work, you know, quick changes.
00:04:19.519 --> 00:04:21.680
There's a lot of stuff happening backstage.
00:04:21.920 --> 00:04:25.360
So I'm always running around my hotel room and singing my big songs.
00:04:25.680 --> 00:04:32.879
And you plus you have to hold the mental space to be able to jump back and forth between, even if it's a line or two or just a dance move, you know, right?
00:04:33.040 --> 00:04:39.199
You have to really be malleable in your own brain to pick up and just jump to these pieces each night.
00:04:39.439 --> 00:04:39.680
Yeah.
00:04:39.759 --> 00:04:41.279
And this is my first time swinging.
00:04:41.360 --> 00:04:44.959
So it's been a learning journey, but it's been so much fun.
00:04:45.120 --> 00:04:50.720
It's so exciting sometimes, you know, to get to do Younger Alley one night and then get to do Nurse Joanna the next night.
00:04:50.959 --> 00:04:53.839
You're really like being a part of every every piece of the show.
00:04:54.079 --> 00:04:57.680
You know, Samantha, you come from a big group from Michigan.
00:04:57.759 --> 00:05:01.519
We've interviewed many Michigan connection uh cast members.
00:05:01.680 --> 00:05:08.000
What do you think it is about that particular school that produces all of these talented Broadway actors?
00:05:08.319 --> 00:05:08.959
Yeah.
00:05:09.199 --> 00:05:11.920
Oh, you know, it's it's a big program.
00:05:12.240 --> 00:05:16.000
It's it has like, you know, less than a 2% acceptance rate.
00:05:16.160 --> 00:05:19.680
And going auditioning for that program was my dream.
00:05:19.839 --> 00:05:24.079
And getting in, and I was in a class of 22 people.
00:05:24.240 --> 00:05:24.399
Okay.
00:05:24.720 --> 00:05:29.360
So it's it's a very intimate setting, and you get to learn a lot.
00:05:29.519 --> 00:05:32.319
I mean, I had the best teachers, the best professors.
00:05:32.480 --> 00:05:41.120
I was always in voice lessons, and I feel like they take the training really seriously there, and they really do prepare you for New York and Broadway.
00:05:41.360 --> 00:05:53.439
And I just feel like I was set up with success and was able to showcase and, you know, got an idiot outside and right as I graduated, and it was it was awesome.
00:05:53.519 --> 00:06:02.560
And I've been in New York for, you know, I was there for a year and a half, and then I was able to get this, and it's been a dream come true, full circle coming back to Michigan.
00:06:02.800 --> 00:06:03.439
No kidding.
00:06:03.600 --> 00:06:08.800
Hey, with the Michigan Performance Outreach workshop, you helped bring the arts to kids.
00:06:09.120 --> 00:06:17.120
Was there one reaction from them that reminded you of something about performing that maybe you lost sight of during your own training?
00:06:17.439 --> 00:06:18.000
Totally.
00:06:18.160 --> 00:06:22.160
Oh my gosh, I loved working with MPOW and working with the kids.
00:06:22.240 --> 00:06:38.160
And we would have workshops with them, and some of us would lead like choreo intensives and writing music classes, and it was just so exciting to, you know, bring the arts to Michigan students and to the students in the area.
00:06:38.480 --> 00:06:50.000
I also was teaching voice lessons outside of SNTD and like teaching little kids in Ann Arbor, and that was always so exciting to just see the joy of, you know, theater's so magical at that age.
00:06:50.319 --> 00:06:53.279
Well, we like to jump around here uh on the podcast here.
00:06:53.360 --> 00:06:56.720
So I want to talk about a little bit about some of the technique that you might have to go through.
00:06:56.879 --> 00:07:08.399
So you're playing younger Allie and the audience, and we're not giving anything away, but if you're even remotely familiar with the show, the audience kind of knows where life is heading for her, but she doesn't quite yet the way the show is laid out.
00:07:08.560 --> 00:07:14.959
So how do you manage to keep your choices spontaneous each night with the information that you have?
00:07:15.199 --> 00:07:15.519
Yeah.
00:07:15.759 --> 00:07:25.759
Well, she helps me a lot because she is spunky and curious and she's always asking so many questions, and she's just so full of life at 16.
00:07:26.000 --> 00:07:34.079
So that helps me go into the show every night and just be like, okay, from the top, I don't know anything.
00:07:34.240 --> 00:07:34.959
Let's go.
00:07:35.120 --> 00:07:40.480
And also as a swing, I get to try something new every night with every role.
00:07:40.560 --> 00:07:43.920
And so I think that also keeps the story fresh for me as well.
00:07:44.240 --> 00:07:44.879
Very nice.
00:07:45.040 --> 00:07:46.399
One other question here.
00:07:46.480 --> 00:07:48.879
So your bio says para mi familia.
00:07:48.959 --> 00:07:51.600
If you're and I hope I didn't butcher saying that that way.
00:07:51.920 --> 00:07:53.199
You gotta roll the R, Steve.
00:07:53.360 --> 00:07:53.759
Roll the R.
00:07:54.319 --> 00:07:56.000
Para you roll the R's.
00:07:56.240 --> 00:08:04.879
Uh but if your family could recognize something about themselves in your performance in the notebook or something you may project to them, what would you want that to be?
00:08:05.199 --> 00:08:05.839
Yeah.
00:08:06.240 --> 00:08:12.720
I think this show is a celebration of life and love.
00:08:13.040 --> 00:08:23.279
And so I really hope that they see that this is a celebration of a lifetime of love and an enduring love and the perseverance of love.
00:08:23.600 --> 00:08:27.920
And so I hope that they get to see that whenever whenever I get to do the show.
00:08:28.079 --> 00:08:28.639
And on that.
00:08:28.959 --> 00:08:30.079
That is very wonderful.
00:08:30.319 --> 00:08:30.879
Yeah, yeah.
00:08:31.040 --> 00:08:34.799
Okay, so I have one just corny question because I'm curious.
00:08:34.960 --> 00:08:40.399
You know, in in terms of playing a first love, has your first love come and seen you perform yet?
00:08:41.200 --> 00:08:44.559
First, fourth, second, or second, third, I don't know.
00:08:45.440 --> 00:08:46.320
Yes, he did.
00:08:46.720 --> 00:08:48.080
He really did to see me.
00:08:48.240 --> 00:08:48.559
Yes.
00:08:49.120 --> 00:08:49.759
I love that.
00:08:50.320 --> 00:08:50.639
So great.
00:08:50.879 --> 00:08:52.799
And did that change your performance?
00:08:52.960 --> 00:08:57.200
Did that did that make it ring differently while you were up there on stage?
00:08:57.679 --> 00:08:59.840
You know, I don't think so.
00:09:00.240 --> 00:09:10.559
I think, yeah, I think, you know, the show is, you know, every I I most of the time I've been lucky, people have gotten to come see me in the show.
00:09:10.720 --> 00:09:12.639
So it's always a little nerve-wracking.
00:09:12.720 --> 00:09:18.799
I'm like, oh my God, you know, my family's here, my friends are here, and I just have to give them a performance of a lifetime.
00:09:19.039 --> 00:09:22.000
But as it's going, it's so exciting to go on.
00:09:22.080 --> 00:09:24.799
And so I think every time I'm just really excited.
00:09:24.960 --> 00:09:35.360
And um it's been it's been really great getting to do these shows and be lucky that I have people in certain cities and they've gotten come out to see me.
00:09:35.519 --> 00:09:42.159
Um, so like yeah, I think sometimes, you know, it gives it gives me a little bit more nerves going on stage, but it doesn't change the performance.
00:09:42.399 --> 00:09:42.720
Yeah.
00:09:42.960 --> 00:09:46.639
Well, hey, we have so enjoyed getting to know you, Samantha.
00:09:46.720 --> 00:09:50.159
And when you get here, we're gonna probably bombard you with more questions.
00:09:50.240 --> 00:09:52.879
But for now, we want to play a game with you.
00:09:53.039 --> 00:09:54.639
Are you game to do that?
00:09:54.960 --> 00:09:55.440
Yeah.
00:09:55.840 --> 00:09:56.720
You in there?
00:09:57.120 --> 00:09:58.799
Ali's parents called the police.
00:09:58.960 --> 00:10:01.039
They got every car on the street out looking for you.
00:10:01.200 --> 00:10:02.480
They're calling you a kidnapper.
00:10:02.639 --> 00:10:02.960
What?
00:10:03.039 --> 00:10:04.159
You gotta get out of here, man.
00:10:04.240 --> 00:10:04.799
Just give me a minute.
00:10:04.879 --> 00:10:06.080
Noah, come on! I need a minute.
00:10:06.159 --> 00:10:07.519
Go keep a lookout for me, okay?
00:10:07.679 --> 00:10:08.960
I can't go to jail, Noah.
00:10:09.039 --> 00:10:10.799
They don't let you in the army if you go to jail.
00:10:11.039 --> 00:10:12.240
Nobody is going to jail.
00:10:12.399 --> 00:10:12.879
You are?
00:10:13.039 --> 00:10:14.399
If they find you here with her.
00:10:14.639 --> 00:10:18.799
See, we're gonna call it keep the page or tear it out of your notebook.
00:10:18.960 --> 00:10:22.879
So we're gonna ask just a couple this or that kind of uh questions to you.
00:10:23.039 --> 00:10:28.399
And we'd love for you to tell us if that's a page you would keep in your own notebook of life or one that you would tear out.
00:10:28.799 --> 00:10:30.559
Think you can come along on this journey?
00:10:30.799 --> 00:10:31.279
Yes.
00:10:31.519 --> 00:10:33.039
Okay, okay, here we go.
00:10:33.200 --> 00:10:36.080
Number one, handwritten love letters.
00:10:37.440 --> 00:10:38.240
Keep that page.
00:10:38.320 --> 00:10:39.039
I agree with you.
00:10:39.279 --> 00:10:41.200
Dating someone else in the cast.
00:10:41.360 --> 00:10:43.840
Oh, oh no, tear.
00:10:46.320 --> 00:10:50.000
Okay, a big romantic gesture in public.
00:10:50.240 --> 00:10:51.840
Keep or yeah, keep.
00:10:52.080 --> 00:10:52.960
Okay, okay.
00:10:53.279 --> 00:10:55.120
Staying friends with an ex.
00:10:55.519 --> 00:10:56.080
Tear.
00:10:56.240 --> 00:10:58.000
It just depends on the ex, I think.
00:10:58.080 --> 00:10:58.720
Yeah, right?
00:10:58.960 --> 00:11:01.039
Yeah, I think it depends, yes.
00:11:01.279 --> 00:11:03.440
But you know, I gotta protect my peace.
00:11:03.600 --> 00:11:05.120
Yes, and we have to be literal.
00:11:05.200 --> 00:11:06.960
It's either keep that page or tear it out.
00:11:07.120 --> 00:11:08.000
So yeah.
00:11:08.320 --> 00:11:08.960
All right.
00:11:09.440 --> 00:11:11.919
Taking relationship advice from your family.
00:11:12.240 --> 00:11:13.360
Keep, definitely.
00:11:13.600 --> 00:11:16.879
Okay, ooh, surprise visits while you're on tour.
00:11:17.039 --> 00:11:20.320
I know that's really broad, but yeah, keep.
00:11:20.399 --> 00:11:22.159
It's always nice to see a familiar face.
00:11:22.399 --> 00:11:24.559
Yeah, maybe that'll happen when you're here in Michigan.
00:11:24.639 --> 00:11:26.879
You know, you're all all your fan club will be here.
00:11:27.120 --> 00:11:27.360
Yeah.
00:11:27.679 --> 00:11:29.919
Sad songs when you're already sad.
00:11:30.799 --> 00:11:31.360
Keep.
00:11:31.519 --> 00:11:32.799
I love doing that.
00:11:33.279 --> 00:11:35.759
I know sometimes you just need a good cry, right?
00:11:36.080 --> 00:11:36.720
Yes.
00:11:37.039 --> 00:11:40.639
Watching the movie before playing the role.
00:11:40.879 --> 00:11:41.919
Yes, keep.
00:11:42.000 --> 00:11:42.399
Definitely.
00:11:42.559 --> 00:11:43.759
I gotta do my research.
00:11:43.919 --> 00:11:44.639
Yes, true.
00:11:44.799 --> 00:11:47.600
Okay, someone you love sitting in the front row.
00:11:47.919 --> 00:11:48.399
Keep.
00:11:48.559 --> 00:11:49.120
I do love that.
00:11:49.279 --> 00:11:51.200
You know, I want to get them the best seats in the house.
00:11:52.000 --> 00:11:58.960
And I think we may know the answer to this based on previous conversation, but giving your first love a second chance.
00:12:01.840 --> 00:12:03.120
Yeah, Keep.
00:12:03.440 --> 00:12:04.080
Oh, okay.
00:12:04.639 --> 00:12:05.519
All right, all right.
00:12:05.600 --> 00:12:06.799
I think that was pretty good.
00:12:07.039 --> 00:12:09.600
Samantha, this was so much fun getting to know you.
00:12:09.679 --> 00:12:12.559
Uh, we can't wait till you get here to Grand Rapids.
00:12:12.799 --> 00:12:14.240
I'm so, so excited.
00:12:14.399 --> 00:12:15.519
Thanks for chatting with me.
00:12:15.679 --> 00:12:18.480
Yeah, you you're gonna love it here, and we can't wait to see you.
00:12:18.720 --> 00:12:19.360
Thank you.
00:12:19.600 --> 00:12:20.639
Okay, bye-bye.
00:12:20.879 --> 00:12:21.519
Bye.
00:12:21.759 --> 00:12:24.000
And now a word from our sponsor.
00:12:24.799 --> 00:12:28.639
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00:12:28.799 --> 00:12:32.080
What are AARP's six pillars of brain health?
00:12:32.320 --> 00:12:40.559
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00:12:40.799 --> 00:12:52.639
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00:12:53.600 --> 00:13:01.679
All right, we're back, and we have a very special guest with us today who will be talking to us a little bit further about what the adjus told us.
00:13:01.840 --> 00:13:07.919
Funnily enough, though, I think you and I both qualified this year for this uh with our recent birthdays.
00:13:08.000 --> 00:13:10.000
Uh milestone, milestone birthday.
00:13:10.320 --> 00:13:10.960
Big milestone.
00:13:11.039 --> 00:13:14.159
Cards are showing up in the mail, and it's all very exciting and very new.
00:13:14.240 --> 00:13:22.799
But today we are here with the Senior Associate State Director of AARP Michigan, Jennifer Feerstein Davita, to tell us a little bit more.
00:13:22.960 --> 00:13:24.159
Good afternoon, Jennifer.
00:13:24.240 --> 00:13:24.879
How are you today?
00:13:25.120 --> 00:13:25.600
I'm good.
00:13:25.679 --> 00:13:26.720
How are you doing?
00:13:26.960 --> 00:13:32.399
I I do want to, I'm laughing because I was hearing you talk about that you both uh got your membership.
00:13:32.639 --> 00:13:36.639
However, the biggest myth is that you have to be like 50 to be a member.
00:13:36.720 --> 00:13:38.799
You actually only have to be 18.
00:13:39.039 --> 00:13:43.840
So I know that you guys are both just in your 20s, and so yes, you do qualify.
00:13:44.159 --> 00:13:46.639
Is that why I've been getting the cards for many, many years ago?
00:13:46.960 --> 00:13:50.000
That's why it's not because we just turned 50, Steve.
00:13:50.159 --> 00:13:51.600
Well, thank you for letting us know that.
00:13:51.679 --> 00:13:53.039
We had no idea.
00:13:53.360 --> 00:13:57.200
I bet a lot of people on the other side of this are gonna be understanding that a little bit better, too.
00:13:57.279 --> 00:14:00.080
So can you tell us a little bit more about the organization, please?
00:14:00.320 --> 00:14:05.360
So AERP's mission is to empower people to choose how they live as they age.
00:14:05.440 --> 00:14:13.120
And that's like the formal state, but really what we do, it's just about making sure that people are equipped to live their best lives.
00:14:13.360 --> 00:14:31.360
And we provide all of the tools and the resources and the support that people need to be able to age with dignity, be able to have the life carved out for themselves that they want, and to equip them really to just uh live their best life and have a quality life.
00:14:31.600 --> 00:14:37.840
Well, one nice thing is that if you become a member, at least with Broadway Grand Rapids, you get some benefits too.
00:14:37.919 --> 00:14:38.960
You want to talk about that?
00:14:39.360 --> 00:14:39.679
Yes.
00:14:39.759 --> 00:14:43.279
And this go this is uh beyond uh members as well.
00:14:43.440 --> 00:14:46.399
So members and guests can get this discount.
00:14:46.639 --> 00:14:53.039
And we have such a great partnership with Broadway Grand Rapids to be able to offer this to older adults.
00:14:53.279 --> 00:15:14.639
And so we provide uh discounted tickets and people can get their tickets for up to 20% off, plus they don't pay taxes or fees, and it has been just such a great collaboration with Broadway Grand Rapids, and I can tell you that people that tap into this discount absolutely love it and then our repeat customers.
00:15:14.879 --> 00:15:29.360
And partly part of the reason that we picked this is because of the focus on brain health, and this is a big focus of AARPs when we're talking about trying to protect people from developing Alzheimer's or other dementias.
00:15:29.600 --> 00:15:35.600
So if people want to learn more, they can go to AARP.org slash MI.
00:15:36.000 --> 00:15:46.320
And when it comes to our brain health support and cognitive uh function, people can go to AARP.org slash staying sharp.
00:15:46.399 --> 00:15:51.600
So we have all kinds of resources and ways for people to tap into AARP's resources.
00:15:51.840 --> 00:15:52.240
All right.
00:15:52.320 --> 00:15:53.440
Thank you so much for sharing.
00:15:53.519 --> 00:15:54.480
We'll see you at the show.
00:15:54.720 --> 00:15:55.120
Thank you.
00:15:55.279 --> 00:15:56.399
Looking forward to it.
00:15:56.639 --> 00:16:02.000
Given the storyline of the notebook and its arrival here in West Michigan, it felt like a natural connection.
00:16:02.159 --> 00:16:09.600
Broadway Grand Rapids reached out to the Alzheimer's Association Michigan chapter and invited them to be the community partner for the show.
00:16:09.840 --> 00:16:11.600
And the timing couldn't have been more perfect.
00:16:11.759 --> 00:16:20.559
Their walk to N Alzheimer's was already on the calendar, creating another meaningful connection between the story we're bringing to the stage and the work happening right here in our community.
00:16:20.720 --> 00:16:27.840
And joining us now, Margaret Howard to tell us more about the walk, the Alzheimer's Association, and why this partnership means so much.
00:16:28.159 --> 00:16:34.320
So, Margaret, we were able to take part in the walk to N Alzheimer's in Grand Rapids.
00:16:34.480 --> 00:16:35.919
What a huge turnout.
00:16:36.000 --> 00:16:37.360
It really did surprise me.
00:16:37.519 --> 00:16:38.399
Oh my goodness.
00:16:38.559 --> 00:16:40.320
It was, wasn't it just beautiful?
00:16:40.639 --> 00:16:46.559
Just the joy, the love in the air, the sense that everyone felt I'm not alone.
00:16:46.639 --> 00:16:47.759
We're in this together.
00:16:47.919 --> 00:16:49.759
It was just remarkable, Jennifer.
00:16:50.080 --> 00:16:53.120
Is this the largest turnout you've had in years past?
00:16:53.679 --> 00:16:56.320
It is the largest in recent past.
00:16:56.720 --> 00:17:02.559
We had 688 people signed up, 112 teams.
00:17:02.879 --> 00:17:15.680
We had folks from businesses, um, we had folks from the healthcare industry, we had folks from retirement communities in their 80s walking with us in memory of folks.
00:17:15.839 --> 00:17:17.200
We had so many stories.
00:17:17.359 --> 00:17:18.960
It was just absolutely beautiful.
00:17:19.200 --> 00:17:20.880
Yeah, and that is a beautiful thing.
00:17:20.960 --> 00:17:37.039
And really why I think for me this partnership means so much, because for those who don't have Alzheimer's as part of their day-to-day, learning from others through their stories, that was really the touching part for us to hear when people were coming up to our table.
00:17:37.359 --> 00:17:38.160
Absolutely.
00:17:38.319 --> 00:17:47.839
You know, the one thing that we know is that there are over 7.2 million Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer's or some other form of dementia.
00:17:48.160 --> 00:17:53.599
Here in Michigan, over 202,000 people diagnosed.
00:17:53.839 --> 00:17:59.039
Here in Kent County, over 12,000 individuals diagnosed.
00:17:59.200 --> 00:18:10.559
And so whether it affects us personally through a family member, we likely know a friend or a colleague or someone's story has impacted us in some way.
00:18:10.799 --> 00:18:20.960
Once we really start talking to folks, and it is really, you know, we never want anyone to feel like they're alone or struggling or suffering in silence.
00:18:21.200 --> 00:18:27.440
And so gathering folks together, hearing those stories and letting folks know we are here for you.
00:18:27.839 --> 00:18:32.400
It is just, it's the name of the game as we come together to try to find a cure.
00:18:32.640 --> 00:18:35.920
You know, Margaret, it is such an important work that you're doing here.
00:18:36.000 --> 00:18:36.720
I wonder if we may.
00:18:36.799 --> 00:18:42.000
I'm going to back up just a little bit and just give a little overview context before uh jumping into a couple other questions.
00:18:42.160 --> 00:18:50.559
So can we walk back and just tell me a little bit about the Alzheimer's Association of Michigan and Midwest, uh, what you do and what you're offering for people?
00:18:51.039 --> 00:18:52.000
Absolutely.
00:18:52.240 --> 00:18:59.680
So I oversee the Grand Rapids Walk to End Alzheimer's, and we have 21 walks throughout the state of Michigan.
00:18:59.920 --> 00:19:03.359
We have 600 walks around the country.
00:19:03.599 --> 00:19:15.920
But here in Michigan and throughout the country, we want folks to know that we focus on three things support, education in the community, and supporting researchers.
00:19:16.160 --> 00:19:18.240
So we want folks to know.
00:19:18.480 --> 00:19:23.920
And and you know, we have a 24-7 line that assists people.
00:19:24.559 --> 00:19:35.039
And it is not just a health line, it is staffed 24 hours a day by master's level licensed social workers.
00:19:35.359 --> 00:19:38.960
So we want folks to know um, you know, what do we do?
00:19:39.119 --> 00:19:40.799
Again, we're providing support.
00:19:41.039 --> 00:19:42.720
We're providing education.
00:19:43.039 --> 00:19:44.880
We are working with researchers.
00:19:45.039 --> 00:20:02.160
So whether it's two in the morning and we're taking a call, or whether it's two in the afternoon and we are at a business working with an HR director to support employees and raise awareness and education for employees who oftentimes are caring for a loved one.
00:20:02.319 --> 00:20:04.880
Again, the ripple effect is unbelievable.
00:20:05.039 --> 00:20:07.759
So the work that we do, it's continuous.
00:20:07.839 --> 00:20:10.640
It's year-round, it's day in and day out.
00:20:11.039 --> 00:20:31.200
And uh what I love so much about this partnership, and I could just go on and on forever, is that this gives us an opportunity to let folks know this disease, folks that are struggling with this, caring for loved ones, it is relevant every day of the year, not just at walk time.
00:20:31.599 --> 00:20:39.519
And so love this partnership with the notebook to allow us in Broadway Grand Rapids to continue to keep this critical conversation going.
00:20:39.759 --> 00:20:43.519
And it is such a natural partnership, obviously, with the storyline of the notebook.
00:20:43.680 --> 00:20:44.720
Can you elaborate a little bit?
00:20:44.799 --> 00:20:48.799
So these walks take place, you know, all during the the year.
00:20:48.960 --> 00:20:52.480
Um and they're they're involving the people, they're involving donations.
00:20:52.559 --> 00:20:58.000
Can you kind of uh talk a little bit about what one can expect or what can one can be part of with these walks?
00:20:58.400 --> 00:21:10.079
I have to tell you that the thing that I am just so incredibly impressed with, with the work of the Alzheimer's Association, are our volunteers.
00:21:10.480 --> 00:21:24.319
We could not raise the money, we could not do the work that we do without every single volunteer that we rely on to pull off blocks to end Alzheimer's throughout the state, throughout the country.
00:21:25.599 --> 00:21:34.480
We are the largest fundraiser for global research, and these funds predominantly are raised by volunteers.
00:21:34.640 --> 00:21:35.839
They are individuals.
00:21:36.079 --> 00:21:43.039
I'll give you an example 82-year-old Ben who called me and said, I saw one of your signs in front of my community.
00:21:43.200 --> 00:21:46.960
I'd like to form a team and walk in memory of my wife, Darlene.
00:21:47.279 --> 00:21:51.200
I use a walker, but I've been training three miles a day.
00:21:51.440 --> 00:21:53.440
Can you tell me how long your walk is?
00:21:53.680 --> 00:21:56.880
And I'm like, Ben, I mean he just had me in tears.
00:21:57.039 --> 00:21:58.880
I got to meet him at the walk.
00:21:59.039 --> 00:22:02.960
He formed a team of 12 people from his retirement community.
00:22:03.359 --> 00:22:06.319
They all showed up and walked with fabulous.
00:22:06.880 --> 00:22:16.319
I I just get goosebumps when I think about all of the stories of why people walk, and it is volunteerism at its brightest.
00:22:16.480 --> 00:22:23.519
It is unbelievable what people are doing, how they are investing to support others and find a cure.
00:22:23.759 --> 00:22:28.079
And you're going to be at our show, the notebook, throughout the duration of the performance.
00:22:28.160 --> 00:22:30.640
You're going to have a table there so people can come and learn more.
00:22:30.799 --> 00:22:38.960
But if for some reason they're not coming to the show, give me the website so that people can get a hold of you and learn more.org.
00:22:39.119 --> 00:22:57.599
When you go to our website, it will help you drill down to the Grand Rapids location, me personally, and the resources are unbelievable that are available to an individual, whether they have been diagnosed themselves, perhaps with early onset, a loved one, a caregiver.
00:22:57.920 --> 00:23:01.200
The resources are unbelievable at that website.
00:23:01.440 --> 00:23:09.359
And Margaret, being partnering with Broadway at for this particular show, what are you most excited about to be there during this run?
00:23:09.599 --> 00:23:10.960
Oh boy, so many things.
00:23:11.039 --> 00:23:21.119
But these are what I call critical conversations, raising awareness, providing education, a phone number for people to call, education.
00:23:21.359 --> 00:23:29.039
The Alzheimer's Association also, we're we're reaching younger audiences around prevention and brain health.
00:23:29.279 --> 00:23:33.119
So all of these conversations, let's talk about it.
00:23:33.359 --> 00:23:36.160
It is a difficult conversation to have.
