GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—The Arthritis Walk will return with a new name and new leader when it returns to Grand Rapids next month.

Dr. Thomas A. Malvitz of Ada will serve as medical chair of the 2014 Grand Rapids Walk to Cure Arthritis, formerly known as the Arthritis Walk.  Malvitz is a surgeon with the Orthopaedic Associates of Michigan in Grand Rapids.

The Walk to Cure Arthritis is a three-mile walk aimed at raising awareness and funds to fight arthritis.  Proceeds from the event go to the Arthritis Foundation, which works to help some of the more than 2.3 million Michiganders with arthritis.

GRAND RAPIDS TOWNSHIP, Mich.—The Cornerstone University community is mourning the loss of a long-time trustee and supporter.

John Miller, 82, was laid to rest Wednesday in Marco Island, FL.  Miller’s influence on Cornerstone can be seen throughout campus; multiple buildings have been named after his family, including Miller Library and Miller Hall. Miller also served on the Cornerstone University Board of Trustees from 1964 to 2003. He was an honorary trustee since 2003. 

 “Besides Dr. (Wilbert) Welch, John Miller has had the most impact on this university and we have lost a dear friend,” said President Joe Stowell.

The Miller family is also responsible for numerous scholarships to CU students.

KENTWOOD, Mich.—There’s a new face on the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Board.

The Kent County Board of Commissioners announced the appointment of Steve Heacock Monday.  The seven-member Airport Board is responsible for the general oversight of Gerald R. Ford Ford International Airport.  Heacock replaces former Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land, who left the board last December.  His term will run through Dec. 31, 2016.

Heacock has served as chairman of the Convention and Arena Authority, which owns and operates Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place.  He  served on the Kent County Board of Commissioners fir sux years, including two years as the chairman.  Heacock, who is a Grand Rapids resident, is the senior vice president of public affairs for Spectrum Health Systems.  He was also the chief administrative officer, general counsel and board secretary of the Van Andel Institute for six years.