All posts by Deborah Reed

“There are angels at Mary Free Bed”: Stroke victim shares journey of healing through local rehabilitation center

April 13, 20251-featured, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, Local Faces, medical moment, Mental Health, Non-Profits, Voices, West MichiganCity of Wyoming, health, journey to recovery, Mary Free Bed, physical health, Recovery, rehabilitation, strokeDeborah Reed

In 2005, Wyoming native Carol Jennings suffered an ischemic stroke that paralyzed her right side and rendered speech nearly impossible (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Carol Jennings says angels live at Mary Free Bed (Courtesy photo)

In July 2005, Wyoming native Carol Jennings suffered an ischemic stroke that paralyzed her right side and rendered speech nearly impossible.

Twenty years later, 82-year-old Jennings is living a full life, and she says it is largely due to the care she received at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital (MFB) in Grand Rapids.

“Mary Free Bed, they have angels that live there,” says Jennings. “The therapists work very hard, and they were just wonderful.”

The journey to recovery, however, was not easy – or short.

A long road home

Jennings and her husband Chuck were far from home when she suffered the stroke. On their way home from Boston, MA, the couple stayed overnight at a hotel in Syracuse, NY. Jennings had a headache that night and took medication to help her sleep.

The next morning, they were packing for the trip back to Michigan when Jennings realized something was not right.

“I was going to drive, and I had gone out to the car and fixed the seat, went back in and stroked,” says Jennings. “I don’t remember a thing after that.”

Jennings does not remember much about the day of her stroke (Courtesy photo)

At St. Joesph’s Health Hospital, Jennings received a clot buster injection to help break up the clot on the left side of her brain. The next thing Jennings remembers is opening her eyes to find a nurse leaning over her, asking if she felt better.

“I couldn’t answer her,” Jennings recounts in a book called The Promised Piece. “I could think, but couldn’t say anything.

“I had so many questions, and my lips and my heart were separated by miles. I couldn’t coordinate my thinking or my hearing, and now my eyes were tearing up and my voice was absent. I was instantly experiencing total grief.”

Jennings underwent treatment at St. Joseph’s for 11 days.

Restoring hope and freedom

Mary Free Bed is the nation’s most comprehensive rehabilitation provider and one of the largest not-for-profit, independent rehabilitation hospital systems in the country, states the MFB website.

MBF’s roots date back to 1891, when a small group of women wanted to help people who could not afford health care. Today, MFB works to restore hope and freedom through specialized physical medicine and rehabilitation programs and services.

Jennings was flown to MFB in Michigan where she underwent treatment for another 19 days.

Tough love

Jennings’ entire right side was paralyzed. She choked when swallowing ice chips, liquids and soft foods, making eating and drinking nearly impossible.

Her weakened right hand became the helping hand instead of the dominant. Jennings had to relearn how to perform numerous tasks, such as eating and writing, using her left hand.

Through everything, Jennings’ husband and her lifelong friend, Marilyn Emery, remained by her side. They provided love and support as Jennings worked toward regaining a normal life.

Jennings’ occupational therapist (Kristi) and speech therapist (Marie) also played a vital role in her recovery and provided Jennings with hope. She remains close with both women today.

“They work so hard, even if you stumble and don’t want to do [things],” says Jennings. “They keep you going. They are just so patient; they really are angels.”

Forever changed

After undergoing years of speech therapy for aphasia, Jennings now puts voice to her thoughts and questions. However, that voice now carries a different pitch, and she is often mistaken for having an accent.

Carol Jennings (right) shares about the challenges and recovery of her stroke (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

When Jennings gave a speech and asked to see the recording, Emery hesitated, knowing the pitch and tone of Jennings’ voice was lower than before the stroke.

“I didn’t know if she should listen to it, but she wanted to use it as a tool for her voice pitch,” says Emery. “She cried when she listened to her speech and said, ‘Did I really sound like that?’”

In order to be discharged from the therapy program, Jennings had to go out to lunch with Chuck and her therapist, order from the menu, and pay for the meal herself. She also had to pass a driving test. Jennings flunked the test the first time because her leg wasn’t strong enough to hit the brake pedal.

But she refused to give up.

“She’s a fighter”

Jennings attended therapy seven days a week, a daunting and difficult schedule.

Tasks that previously took no effort or thought now put Jennings’ sanity and patience to the test.

Jennings got her wish and once again danced with her husband Art (Courtesy, MFB)

As Chuck drove Jennings to therapy appointments, he read street signs and billboards, then encouraged Jennings to repeat them.

“I didn’t realize that I had to put my tongue a certain way when I said certain words,” says Jennings, adding that it was one more thing to relearn.

“It came back. Everything will come back, but it takes so long. I learned patience.”

When asked by the MFB marketing department to name the one thing Jennings wanted to do again, her reply was instant: “Dance with my husband.”

In time, Jennings once again danced in Chuck’s arms, their picture gracing local billboards and television screens as a testament to MFB’s rehabilitation skills. But much of that healing and strength came from Jennings herself.

“She’s a fighter,” said Emery. “She is a marvelous witness of what can happen.”

Faith, family and friendship

A large part of Jennings’ healing, she said, also came from her relationship with God.

“My mind never shut down, but I couldn’t talk much. All of a sudden, I said, ‘You know, Lord, if you want me to live, what do you want me to do? I can’t do anything.’”

Jennings would talk with God daily as she struggled in therapy.

“Just going there helped me to realize that God had to be working for me because some days I couldn’t work for myself,” said Jennings. “I would go, but He would give me the strength.

“My relationship [with Him] grew and grew. And He got me better. Better to do what? To help write a book.”

That book, The Power of Friendship: Lessons Learned from Lifetime Friends, details the lifelong friendship of Jennings and Emery – and the impact of true friendship.

When planning the book, Emery asked Jennings what came to mind when she said God. Jennings replied: Center.

“I thought, God will be the center of our book,” says Emery. “That He pulled her through, and she needed Him. We were there because she survived.”

Working on the book with Emery forced Jennings to utilize her mind and gave her purpose. “I felt the power of friendship,” says Jennings. “They were pulling for me, and I thought: I’m not going to let them down.”

“There is power in friendship.”

Jennings and Emery view each other as sisters (Courtesy, Deborah Reed)

“Carol told me that the book and all of her friendships gave her purpose,” says Emery. “You remember those people who were there for you. You never forget it.

“We’re sisters. Not of blood, but we’re sisters.”

The friends and family that banded around Jennings during her recovery, Emery continues, is a testament to the impact Jennings makes on others’ lives.

“She’s somebody you don’t forget,” says Emery.

Moving forward – with ink

Jennings’ tattoo reminds her that she is a survivor (Courtesy, Jennings)

Five years after her stroke, Jennings returned to Syracuse to meet those at St. Joseph’s who helped her. Being able to thank her “angels” in person gave Jennings a sense of thankfulness and appreciation.

A tattoo with the date of her stroke now encircles Jennings’ right ankle.

“The inking is a reminder that I am a survivor,” says Jennings. “I never wanted to forget what I went through.”

Though not always easy, Jennings continues trying new things – and spending time with friends.

Read more about the lifelong bond between Carol Jennings and Marilyn Emery here.

More information about the book, The Power of Friendship, can be found here and here.

Emmanuel Hospice shares four conversation starters for advance care planning

April 13, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, Kent County, medical moment, Mental Health, Senior Living, West Michiganadvance care planning, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Emmanuel Hospice, health, Health care, Senior livingDeborah Reed

It is important to talk with loved ones about your health care wishes and designate someone to make decisions on your behalf when you are no longer able to do so (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Who will make decisions about your health in the event you are not able to make them yourself?

That is the question at the heart of National Healthcare Decisions Day. Every April, this annual initiative emphasizes the importance of talking with loved ones about your health care wishes, formally documenting those wishes and designating someone to make decisions on your behalf when you are no longer able to do so.

This process, known as advance care planning, is something Britt Fischer regularly discusses with patients and families in her role as a social worker with Emmanuel Hospice. In Fischer’s experience, many people wait until retirement or until they have a serious incident or diagnosis, but the conversation should happen sooner.

“Working for a hospice provider really opened my eyes,” Fischer says. “Every day is not guaranteed, so it is never too soon to get these plans in place.”

Many people wait to plan until retirement or until they have a serious incident or diagnosis, but the conversation should happen sooner (Courtesy, Adobe Stock)

Health, decision and rights

Advance care planning can be intimidating to talk about because of the stigma around end-of-life discussions in our society, but Fischer likes to say, “it is less about death and dying, and more about your health, your decisions and your rights.”

“Everyone has the right to know who is going to be making decisions for them,” she says. “Everyone should be able to feel confident that person is going to make decisions that are in line with their wishes – not anyone else’s.”

To help broach the topic with loved ones, Fischer recommends four conversations starters:

I recently learned about advance care planning. Have you discussed your wishes for future medical decisions with any loved ones?
Do you know who would be your health care proxy or durable power of attorney for health care if you couldn’t make decisions for yourself?
Do you know if you have an advance directive in place? If not, can I help you with one?
What do you think are the most important decisions to make ahead of time regarding your health?

Clarification and documentation

Fischer recognizes advance care planning can also be confusing because there are a lot of different terms that are used – many of which mean the same thing.

“We want to see a durable power of attorney designated specifically for health care,” Fischer clarifies. “This is sometimes referred to as a health care proxy or patient advocate, but what it comes down to is whether you have in writing who will be responsible for making decisions for different medical events. We recommend listing additional people as backups in case the first-named person is unable to serve when the time comes.”

Filling out an advance directive form will serve as a legal guide for designating a decision maker and documenting your wishes (Courtesy, Adobe Stock)

Filling out an advance directive form will serve as a legal guide for designating that decision maker and documenting your wishes. It is recommended to review and update your advance directive anytime one of the “3 Ds” happen – death, divorce or diagnosis.

“There are many advance directive forms available online,” Fischer says. “CaringInfo.org is a great resource to find an appropriate one for your state. You’ll also need two people who are not related to you to witness. Often neighbors or friends can help with that part. Notarization is not necessary.”

In the state of Michigan, living wills are not legally binding. Only a durable power of attorney for health care can ensure your wishes are honored.

Fischer also recommends filling out a Michigan funeral representative form, which designates someone to make decisions about funeral arrangements and cremation.

“I’ve found it’s best to be clear and concise about what you want to happen at the end of life,” Fischer says. “This ensures your wishes are honored, rather than leaving your loved ones to guess or debate during an already difficult time.”

Exercise Snacking: The ‘little bit a lot’ approach to physical activity

April 13, 20252-row, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Health, Kent County, Local Business, medical moment, Mental Health, Recreation, Senior Living, West MichiganCare Resources, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, exercise snacks, health, mental health, movement, Physical activity, Senior livingDeborah Reed

Physical therapist Peter Vander Weide working with participant Anwar (Courtesy, Care Resources)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

While it’s no secret physical activity is one of the most important ways to maintain good health, fitting in regular movement is easier said than done, especially as we age.

To make exercise more accessible, “exercise snacking” is growing in popularity for older adults. The idea is to incorporate small bursts of activity into your everyday routine.

‘A little bit a lot’

These “snacks” of activity can involve movement that already occurs in your daily life – things like getting up and down from a chair multiple times or doing weight shifts while washing dishes.

Increasing every day movements can produce healthy results (Courtesy photo)

“This is what I like to call the ‘little bit a lot’ approach,” says Peter Vander Weide, a physical therapist at Care Resources in Grand Rapids who has been a clinical specialist in geriatric physical therapy for 20 years. “You’re more likely to do it because you don’t consider it a formal exercise program. Rather, you’re just doing a little more activity than you normally do each day. It’s a mental shift.”

There’s also the convenience of not needing any special equipment and being able to exercise snack anywhere spontaneously throughout your day. As it turns out, a “little bit a lot” adds up. According to the National Council on Aging, recent research has shown exercise snacks can lead to “significant health gains.”

A phenomenal impact

From his decades supporting older adults, Vander Weide can’t emphasize enough the need to stay active.

Regular physical activity generates both physical and mental health benefits (Courtesy photo)

“As we get older, our connective tissue becomes inflexible and we gradually lose muscle with aging, which is called Sarcopenia,” he says. “Some sources say people can experience 50% muscle loss by 80 years old.”

But the benefits of achieving regular physical activity are plentiful, Vander Weide notes.

“Regular physical activity will help you maintain maximum strength and improve circulation, digestion, respiratory function and flexibility while reducing joint pain,” he says. “Then there’s the impact on mental health. Exercise increases levels of serotonin and helps the body release endorphins that are better than eating a piece of chocolate. These decrease pain, depression and anxiety.

“Bottom line: Exercise is phenomenal for aging individuals – and for all of us, really.”

Simply moving

Vander Weide acknowledges it takes effort to exercise, and that alone can be a barrier. He says this concept of snacking works better because it’s not asking you to run a marathon, it’s inspiring you to find simple ways to do more a little bit at a time.

“You just simply have to move,” he urges.

Examples of suggested exercise snacks include:

Lean into the counters in your home to stretch your calf muscles out.
Grab on to your kitchen sink and do weight shifts side to side and then front to back.
Do a few sit-to-stands from a chair.
Side-step from one room to another and back.
Speed up your pace as you walk through a hallway in your home.
March in place while looking for something in the fridge or pantry.

Moving with intention

Lastly, Vander Weide cautions to do these movements with intentionality. He believes one of the most important concepts to understand in aging is that the body compensates to failure.

As your muscles get weaker or your body alters function due to pain, the brain will figure out how to compensate to accomplish the task. This may work for a while, but it often leads to further dysfunction. If proper form is used during exercise snacks, your body will regain or maintain “normal” function.

For more information on physical therapy and group exercise classes provided by Care Resources for adults 55 years and older, call 800-610-6299 or visit CareResources.org.

Restoration efforts wrap up for 390,000+ Michigan customers impacted by severe storms

April 7, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Environment, Going Local, Hard News, Kent County, Our Cities, Weather, West MichiganCity of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Consumers Energy, restoration, Severe WeatherDeborah Reed

Historic storms brought ice accumulation in northern Michigan and nine confirmed tornadoes to southern Michigan, impacting more than 390,000 Consumers Energy customers (Courtesy, Consumers Energy)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Consumers Energy officials are thanking customers for their patience and understanding as crews from Michigan and neighboring states finish restoring power to the last remaining customers impacted earlier this week.

The historic storms brought ice accumulation in northern Michigan and nine confirmed tornadoes to southern Michigan, impacting more than 390,000 customers.

Consumers Energy crews worked around the clock in difficult conditions to safely and efficiently restore power. While they are nearing the end of our restoration efforts, crews can still be seen throughout the community.

Some crews are being redeployed to assist in other areas still recovering from the storm while others will remain in the region to clean up debris. In the following weeks, crews will work to remove the downed poles, wires and other materials used during restoration.

Consumers Energy asks residents to be aware during the clean-up process; never approach any downed wires or damaged equipment, and allow crews the space they need to work safely.

A show of support

“We are incredibly proud of our crews and support teams who responded swiftly and tirelessly during this critical time,” said Norm Kapala, one of Consumers Energy’s Officers in Charge for restoration. “We know how important reliable power is to our customers, and we thank them for their patience as we worked to bring everyone back online.”

Throughout the restoration, crews were also deeply moved by the support shown by the communities. In Pellston — the “Ice Box of the Nation” — hearts were anything but cold. When more than 100 crews stopped by the Pellston General Store, they were told: “It’s on us.”

“When we arrived and set up our command center, there was no electricity, no water and no food available,” said Andy Snider, Executive Director of Electric Operations. “This establishment really opened its doors to help our crews out. The support they’ve offered helped us expedite restoration.”

Pellston General Store Director Nate Hendricks said he was happy to help. “These crews are away from their families helping us get back in business and getting everyone’s power back. We want to pay it forward.”

Consumers Energy says they are grateful for this incredible example of community spirit — and for every neighbor, business and local partner who supported their crews throughout this storm.

Continued improvement

Customers will also see crews throughout the year as Consumers pushes forward in their efforts to improve as outlined in the Reliability Roadmap.

As weather events grow more frequent and severe, investing in a stronger, more resilient electric grid is essential. They are continuing to upgrade infrastructure, trim trees, replace aging equipment and implement smart technologies to better withstand future storms and reduce outage times.

(Courtesy, Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce)

Important safety tips

Consumers Energy urges the public to keep important safety tips in mind:

Be alert to crews working along the roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they can go safely past workers on roadsides.
Stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines, and to report unguarded downed lines by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
Never use a generator in an attached garage, basement, enclosed patio or near any air intakes. Doing so could cause a generator to produce hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and deadly gas. Read more guidance on safe generator use here.
Consumers Energy will trim or remove trees interfering with electric restoration activities. Once safe to do so, clean-up of debris from tree trimming or removal during a storm emergency is the responsibility of individual property owners.
In some cases, the mast that holds the electric service wires to a home or business may have been damaged or torn away. Crews will reconnect the wires to a home, but only a licensed electrician can repair or replace a mast or a cable.
Residents can also utilize the Michigan 211 website for the most up to date information on warming shelters in their area.

Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of Michigan’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

Kelloggsville seeks renewal of non-homestead millage from voters on May 6

April 7, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Finances, Going Local, Kent County, Upcoming Eventsbudget, City of Wyoming, Education, Kelloggsville Public Schools, millage renewal, non-homestead millageDeborah Reed

Residents in the Kelloggsville Public School District are being asked to vote on a non-homestead property tax proposal that generates approximately $4.4 million dollars annually for area schools (Courtesy, KPS)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

On May 6, 2025, residents in the Kelloggsville Public School District (KPSD) are being asked to vote on a non-residential (non-homestead) property tax proposal.

This will be a renewal of a millage that will expire with the 2025 tax levy, and an addition of millage that will only be levied to restore the millage as a result of Headlee rollback. The operating millage generates approximately $4.4 million dollars annually, and was last approved by voters in May 2023.

Millage details and impact

(Courtesy, KPS)

According to the KPS website, Michigan school districts are required to levy 18 mills (a mill is $1.00 for every $1,000 of taxable valuation on property) of operating millage on non-homestead properties for a specific period to receive their full revenue per-pupil foundation allowance.

The operating millage provides critical funds to support the day-to-day operations of schools.

“Renewing the non-homestead millage is crucial to maintaining the strength of our schools,” said Eric Alcorn, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Kelloggsville Public Schools. “This is not a new tax but a continuation of funding that supports our students, teachers, and programs.

“Maintaining this support enables us to deliver the best education to our community’s children.”

Funding includes, but is not limited to, staffing costs, instructional programs, instructional materials, transportation and maintenance.

The proposal would renew taxes on business properties and second homes. It would not cost the owners of a primary residence any additional taxes, as a homeowner’s primary residence is exempted from this tax.

Failure to authorize the operating millage proposal would decrease the KPS annual general operating fund by an approximate $4.4 million dollars. If access to these funds is lost, cuts will need to be made within the KPS operating budget.

Headlee Amendment

Michigan voters approved the “Headlee” tax limitation amendment to the Michigan Constitution in 1978. The Headlee Amendment requires local units of government, including school districts, to reduce millage rates when annual property values increase to more than a statutory rate.

The State of Michigan will not replace lost funding due to a non-approval; these funds are only received via voter approval of the renewal.

Voting details

Voting polls for the millage are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m on May 6. Visit michigan.gov/vote to find your voting location.

City of Wyoming to host Arbor Day event and tree planting at Prairie Park on April 24

April 5, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Environment, Going Local, Kent County, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsArbor Day, City of Wyoming, City of Wyoming Tree Commission, environment, The Tree Amigos, tree planting, VolunteersDeborah Reed

The Tree Amigos – City of Wyoming Tree Commission will host an Arbor Day event at Prairie Park on Thursday, April 24 (Courtesy Photo)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

The Tree Amigos – City of Wyoming Tree Commission will host an Arbor Day event at Prairie Park on Thursday, April 24 at 4 p.m. The event will include music and the reading of the Arbor Day Proclamation. In collaboration with the City of Wyoming Parks Dept., The Tree Amigos will plant a Brandywine Red Maple at Prairie Park after the ceremony.

Following the event, The Tree Amigos and volunteers will plant approximately 20 trees in the nearby neighborhood on Sharon Street SW, south of 28th Street. Volunteers are welcome!

Consulting arborist Lauren Davis, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks Director of Programs, recently surveyed the street for potential planting spaces. Tree Amigos Matt Ferris and Matt Jemilo followed up with door-to-door visits to see if residents at the selected addresses wanted a tree – and received an overwhelmingly positive response.

Friends of Grand Rapids Parks is funding the purchase of half of the trees. In addition, a donation from the Wyoming Lions Club will help purchase water bags and planting supplies.

The City of Wyoming Tree Commission, The Tree Amigos, is a volunteer board that seeks to
improve the City’s tree canopy with the goal of creating a healthier, more vibrant community.

Get Ready for the City of Wyoming’s Spring Carnival!

April 5, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Food, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Our Cities, Recreation, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, entertainment, family-friendly, Lamar Park, Recreation, Spring Carnival, Wyoming Parks & Recreation DepartmentDeborah Reed

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

With the return of spring comes another seasonal tradition – the annual Wyoming Carnival!

Families are invited to Lamar Park (2561 Porter St. SW, Wyoming) to enjoy carnival rides, food, games and prizes April 11 – 20.

“We’re excited for a week of food, fun and games to kick off spring,” said Brittani Stickler, Special Events and Marketing Programmer for Wyoming Parks & Recreation.

Event details to know

Carnival vendor T.J. Schmidt & Company is partnering with Skerbeck Entertainment Group to provide a variety of rides and games.

The carnival will be open Monday through Thursday from 4 – 8:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 12 – 8:30 p.m., and Sunday from 12 – 6 p.m.

Individual ticket and unlimited ride wristband cost will be announced soon. Tickets and wristbands can be purchased at the ticket booth on site at the carnival.

Krashawn Martin, Director of Parks & Recreation, says this annual event is always “a great opportunity for families and neighbors to come out and enjoy the park, and enjoy the carnival at the same time.”

Impacting youth through family fun

Not only does the carnival provide fun for the whole family, it funds youth scholarships and programming through the Parks & Recreation Department.

Each year, T.J. Schmidt & Company donates a portion of their ticket sales back to the Parks & Rec Department for youth scholarships. The recreation program scholarships can be utilized by most any youth in Wyoming under the age of 18.

Those interested in applying for a youth scholarship can fill out an application on the Parks & Recreation website, or visit the department office location.

The Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance distributes funds to the community through their annual grant awarding process.

Something for everyone

The Parks & Rec Department encourages the community to come out and experience this family-friendly event.

“Whether you’re here for the carnival classics or trying something new, there’s something for everyone!” (Parks & Rec website)

Final restoration work underway for more than 900 Consumers Energy crews

April 3, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Hard News, Kent County, Newscast, WeatherConsumers Energy, Retoration Efforts, Severe WeatherDeborah Reed

Consumers Energy has approximately 900 crews engaged in the final restoration efforts for customers impacted by recent severe weather (Courtesy, Consumers Energy)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Consumers Energy has approximately 900 crews engaged in the final restoration efforts for customers impacted by severe ice and thunderstorms that pummeled massive swaths of the northern and southern portions of the state in the past week.

In addition to the hundreds of thousands who lost power over the weekend due to the first series of storms — which brought historic ice accumulation in the north and nine confirmed tornadoes in the south — 47,000 additional customers lost power on Wednesday afternoon and evening due to high winds from another storm system crossing the state.

Of the around 350,000 customers impacted by the storm events, nearly 90% have already been restored.

“This has been one of the most significant storm events in our company’s history, yet just as significant has been the response from our lineworkers,” said Chris Fultz, one of Consumers Energy’s Officers in Charge of restoration.

“Throughout this restoration effort we have continually added more crews to our system, and have an historic, dedicated team committed to working around the clock until every last customer has the lights back on.”

To thank customers for their understanding, Consumers Energy is working with local first responders and law enforcement in Crawford, Otsego, Oscoda and Alcona counties to provide free water throughout the day today to those impacted by the storms.

Important safety tips

Consumers Energy urges the public to keep important safety tips in mind:

Be alert to crews working along the roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they can go safely past workers on roadsides.
Stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines, and to report unguarded downed lines by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
Never use a generator in an attached garage, basement, enclosed patio or near any air intakes. Doing so could cause a generator to produce hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and deadly gas. Read more guidance on safe generator use here.
Consumers Energy will trim or remove trees interfering with electric restoration activities. Once safe to do so, clean-up of debris from tree trimming or removal during a storm emergency is the responsibility of individual property owners.
In some cases, the mast that holds the electric service wires to a home or business may have been damaged or torn away. Crews will reconnect the wires to a home, but only a licensed electrician can repair or replace a mast or a cable.
Residents can also utilize the Michigan 211 website for the most up to date information on warming shelters in their area.

Consumers Energy is Michigan’s largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

PAWS highlights increasing need for service dogs for children with autism

April 3, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Faces, medical moment, Mental Health, Non-Profits, Pets/Animals, Voices, West Michiganassistance dogs, autism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, nonprofit, PAWS, Service Dogs for Children with Autism, VolunteersDeborah Reed

Nolan (left) and TREASURE with parents Vanessa and Derek (Courtesy, PAWS)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

“When I first met TREASURE, I was super excited!” shared Nolan Casula, one of the many children benefiting from the partnership of a Paws With A Cause (PAWS) Service Dog for Children with Autism (SDA).

TREASURE, a lovable Golden Retriever, joined the Casula family as Nolan’s SDA companion last year. The service dog quickly became Nolan’s new best friend, helping him navigate the world and offering comfort and support.

In recognition of Autism Awareness Week (March 24-28) and Autism Awareness Day (April 2), PAWS shined a spotlight on the impact of SDAs like TREASURE and the ongoing efforts to meet the rapidly increasing demand for these dogs.

PAWS provides custom-trained assistance dogs that empower individuals living with disabilities to lead fuller, more independent lives (Courtesy, PAWS)

The impact of SDAs

PAWS provides custom-trained assistance dogs that empower individuals living with disabilities to lead fuller, more independent lives. One category of assistance dogs is SDAs.

These dogs play a crucial role for children on the spectrum by enhancing social interactions, expanding verbal and nonverbal communication, teaching life skills, increasing interest in activities, and reducing stress within the family – something the Casula family can attest to.

Nolan’s parents, Vanessa and Derek Casula, shared, “The impact that TREASURE has had on our family has been nothing but positive. What once were challenges are no longer the case.

“We no longer have to dread bedtime, we no longer have to dread simplistic things such as showering or brushing teeth. I don’t have to try to convince him to read a story because now he willingly does so to his best friend TREASURE.”

An increasing demand

However, the demand for these life-changing dogs continues to grow. PAWS currently receives four applications for every one spot available for SDAs. In 2025, PAWS did not offer applications for this category of assistance dog due to the already extensive waiting list.

For PAWS, meeting this increasing demand requires strategic growth and additional support from the community.

Renovating PAWS’ national headquarters based in Wayland, MI, is one of vital changes being made to expand the mission work and ability to reach more people like the Casula family. The updated facilities will enable PAWS to continue delivering world-class service, increase the number of dogs in training, and therefore, the number applicants the organization can serve.

A need for foster puppy raising volunteers

With a goal to double the placements of assistance dogs by 2030, PAWS also needs to increase the number of volunteers in the Foster Puppy Raising program.

Volunteer Foster Puppy Raisers provide a loving home and basic obedience training for future assistance dogs before they are ready to begin formal training. Before TREASURE met her forever person, Nolan, she lived with Bonnie Sposato, a volunteer Foster Puppy Raiser for PAWS.

There are currently over 150 volunteers that are a part of the Foster Puppy Raising program at PAWS, but this number will need to grow (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“It honestly gives me goosebumps in the best way to think about the changes and the impact that miss TREASURE is going to have on a child’s life,” said Sposato. “Her new person loves her, and she loves him so much. It is the best feeling ever.”

There are currently over 150 volunteers that are a part of the Foster Puppy Raising program at PAWS, but this number will need to grow over the next year to help serve more people with disabilities. To reach more people like Nolan and his family, PAWS is asking the community to consider becoming a raiser, co-raiser, or a starter/finisher home.

“Providing assistance dogs for the people who need them begins with our volunteers,” said Michele Suchovsky, CEO of PAWS. “By providing the dog with a loving home in the early stages of life, our volunteers are helping us make an incredible impact for people like the Casula family.

“TREASURE helps Nolan feel safe, understood, and supported. She is providing peace of mind to Vanessa and Derek, helping them navigate the challenges of autism with greater ease.”

An encouraging word

Nolan provided his thoughts on the importance of helping more children like him receive their SDA, encouraging people to donate to PAWS and volunteer: “Because of donations from people like you, I have my best friend TREASURE. Your donation will also allow for other kids like me to have a best friend too!”

More information about PAWS, ways to donate, and how to join the volunteer program can be found at: pawswithacause.org.

Local students Aurora Leon-Mull and Finnick Coburn win annual Women’s City Club Impact Award

April 2, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, West MichiganCommunity, Education, Impact Award, inspiration, leadership, union high school, Women's City ClubDeborah Reed

Union High School juniors, Aurora Leon-Mull and Finnick Coburn, talk about their Impact Award contest submissions and what winning the award means to them (WKTV Video / Jaylah Lewis and Jarius Aaron)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Union High School (UHS) juniors Aurora Leon-Mull and Finnick Coburn were recently declared this year’s Women’s City Club (WCC) Impact Award contest winners.

Leon-Mull and Coburn had no idea why they were called down to UHS Principal Aaron Roussey’s office on March 27. The two UHS juniors were met by WCC President Wendy Sturm, who revealed Leon-Mull and Coburn were the winners of the 2025 Impact Award.

Inspiration and influence

Established in 2018 by the WCC and developed in conjunction with UHS, this annual award was created to inspire leadership in students as they evaluate who has influenced their lives the most.

“As these junior year students identify how others have impacted them as individuals to attain their own personal excellence, hopefully [it] will inspire them to also encourage and inspire others,” said Sturm.

Impact Award winners Finnick Coburn (left) and Aurora Leon-Mull with their contest submissions (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Students applied by filling out a short form with a personal statement and then presenting a piece of work identifying and describing a personal role model who inspired them to achieve their own excellence. Applicants were able to choose their form of expression from a variety of media – writing, drawing, photography, a musical composition, etc.

The 2025 winning entries were chosen by a committee of UHS administrators, teachers and counselors in February. Winners will receive a certificate and a $750 cash award to be used in any way they see fit, without stipulations.

Roussey said the cash award helps alleviate financial concerns for students as they move toward their next phase of life.

“A lot of our kids are first-generation students when it comes to college,” said Roussey. “To help that transition is big, and to know that – whether it’s through books or computers…or just putting [the money] toward tuition, room and board – it helps.”

Roussey also appreciates the Impact Award because it shows care from the community.

“What I love about it is community members reaching out to us and ensuring that our scholars are not only seen but taken care of,” said Roussey. “The fact that they think about our kids here at Union High School, and just support us.”

A secret submission

Impact Award winner Aurora Leon-Mull with her essay featuring the impact her stepfather has made in her life (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Each year, Impact Award entries are varied and provide insight into the students’ lives.

As soon as Leon-Mull saw this year’s Impact Award prompt, she knew her submission would be an essay featuring her stepfather.

Leon-Mull was very young when her biological father left her family. Her stepfather filled that gap, raising Leon-Mull to be an independent young woman.

“He’s played a big role in my life,” said Leon-Mull. “I consider him my father because he’s been there for me my whole life. He’s the one who has pushed me to do things out of my comfort zone, [and] pushed me to where I am today and where I want to go in the future.”

Leon-Mull said her stepfather did not know he was the subject of her Impact Award entry.

“I wasn’t going to tell him about it until I won – if I won – so I’m really excited to tell him,” said Leon-Mull. “I think he’s going to be very proud.”

Leon-Mull plans to use the award money for college where she will study law or forensic crime scene investigation.

Purely for the fun of it

Impact Award winner Finnick Coburn with his painting of online content creator Scott Christian Sava (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

Coburn admitted that he never expected to win the contest; he entered purely for the fun of creating art.

“Being able to do what I love, which is make art, and show it to people who will actually see it – it was just awesome to me,” said Coburn.

To showcase his love for art and artists in general, Coburn painted a portrait of online content creator Scott Christian Sava.

“His art is beautiful, but that’s not necessarily why I chose him,” said Coburn. “I just respect everything that he puts into his art, and his morals about not giving up on your art and not getting too attached to your art because everything is just practice. And he respects everyone, no matter what; I really appreciate that.

“I’ve learned a lot in my art through him, and how to treat other people, how to go about life.”

Coburn believes the beauty of art lies in how someone feels when they view and experience it. However, gaining viewership of his art is not his main priority.

“It’s important to me if it makes them feel good,” said Coburn. “If anyone were to see my art and be like, this is what I needed to see today – that’s really important to me. But to the general world, I don’t really care. A lot of art I make is for me.”

Coburn plans to save the majority of the award money for college expenses. He plans to study illustration and eventually illustrate his own graphic novels.

An all-inclusive opportunity

Sturm said the WCC Impact Award provides a unique opportunity for all students.

“Most awards given to high school students are academically oriented,” said Sturm. “This is a very different type of award.

Impact Award winners Aurora Leon-Mull (left) and Finnick Coburn give each other a high-five (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“It’s not really based on their scholarly ability, it’s based on their inspiration, and that is more all-inclusive. That’s what’s so important about this award – it doesn’t rule people out.”

When visiting UHS, Sturm enjoys seeing how previous Impact Award winners have matured over time.

“These recipients of the Impact Award really mature and grow and become significant leaders in the community here at the high school,” said Sturm. “They find opportunities and new confidence in themselves. We’re proud of them.”

Award winners will be honored with a luncheon presentation at Mayflower Congregational Church in April. During the luncheon, the winners will have an opportunity to show and talk about their submission pieces with WCC members, and will be presented with a certificate and the award money.

The Impact Award

For a list of past Impact Award winners, click here.

The Impact Award is funded by generous donations from WCC members.

(Courtesy, WCC)

Puertas Abiertas celebrates six years of helping Latina women live free of domestic violence

March 31, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Culture, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Mental Health, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Voices, West MichiganAndrea Inostroza, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Culture, Domestic Violence, Kent County, Latina women, Latino community, nonprofits, Puertas Abiertas, resources, support, West MichiganDeborah Reed

Puertas Abiertas is breaking the cycle of domestic violence by providing women, men, children, and LGBTQ with support and resources (Courtesy photo)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Puertas Abiertas (Open Doors), a local nonprofit organization, is celebrating six years of helping Latina women live healthier lives free of violence.

Andrea Inostroza, founder and executive director, has served over 2,500 individuals since the inception of Puertas Abiertas in January 2019. While Inostroza focuses on providing services for female victims of abuse, trafficking and discrimination in the Latina community, no one is turned away.

Regardless of age, gender or ethnicity, Inostroza opens her doors to all in need.

“What we provide here is a support group for women, men, children, adolescents, and LGBTQ+ too,” says Inostroza. “This organization was born with the idea of: Serve the Latino community and break the cycle of domestic violence (DV) through education.”

“We speak their language”

Inostroza leads the organization with cultural sensitivity and awareness. As the only bilingual organization in Michigan offering resources for those escaping domestic violence situations, Puertas Abiertas provides a vital service for the Latina community.

The nonprofit offers services such as therapy; support groups; food, clothing and housing assistance; employment and resume building assistance; and a 24/7 Spanish domestic violence hotline.

Puertas Abiertas works with more than 60 partners and community organizations to offer as many resources as possible under one roof – which was Inostroza’s goal.

“My idea was to have an organization where everybody comes here, and we don’t send anyone anywhere,” Inostroza says, adding that partnerships are vital to the success of this process. “You can’t do this work by yourself. You have to do it in a collaboration.”

Inostroza’s staff includes five Michigan licensed therapists and two full-licensed therapists. Inostroza’s background also contains an extensive knowledge of trauma-informed therapy. Puertas Abiertas’ therapy program currently serves over 140 men, women and children.

Puertas Abiertas staff also includes five advocates that accompany clients to various places (ex: court) and assist with transportation and translation.

“We are always with them. Always,” says Inostroza. “That’s what makes a difference. To have somebody beside you, and to know that you belong to the organization…it’s a sense of belonging.”

“We don’t label”

Inostroza says there is no judgment at Puertas Abiertas.

“We don’t differentiate here, we don’t label. If someone comes here and needs services, we help them. Our mission is to provide, to teach these women to have a healthy life free of violence,” Inostroza says.

“We work with the Latino community, and we’re trying to protect the clients, protect the organization, and to have the best outcome based on everything that is going on around us.”

Teaching safety and equality

Andrea Inostroza-Castro, Puertas Abiertas Founder and Executive Director (Courtesy, Puertas Abiertas)

Inostroza was raised in Concepción, Chile and moved to Kansas with her family in 2002 without knowing the English language or culture. The move was precipitated by a desire to place her children in a safe environment and teach them about equality.

“Chile is very divided by social status, socioeconomics and finances, so we wanted to teach our kids that everybody is the same,” says Inostroza. “We don’t look at anyone differently.”

Initially, Inostroza struggled with the English language and change in culture.

“I came from the second biggest city in Chile, beside the ocean – to Kansas, in the middle of nowhere,” said Inostroza, adding that she later moved to Michigan because of the lakes and her desire to be near water.

Inostroza learned English while pursuing a postgraduate degree. Her certifications include: a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education, a Master of Science in Psychology, a Master in Art Therapy and Counseling. She is also registered as a professional artist at Fine Art America.

Recognizing a need

Inostroza was inspired to start Puertas Abiertas while employed at a Grand Rapids school where 86% of students came from the Latino community.

“I saw a lot of problems with children,” says Inostroza. “[The school] wanted to discharge them from the school system because of their behavior.”

Inostroza realized the negative behavior stemmed from domestic violence at home, or because the students were survivors of domestic violence.

She began talking with her students’ mothers, gaining their trust. Inostroza soon realized the women were also DV victims and survivors, or were sexually abused as children.

“That’s what motivates me: the needs of the people and the misunderstanding of the behaviors of the children in school – because it was not their fault,” says Inostroza. “They were repeating [what they saw at home].

Inostroza began a ten-week support group (Puertas Abiertas) for women. As the number of participants quickly increased, she began looking for a larger meeting place – and encountered unexpected resistance.

David vs. Goliath: The fight for resources

While trying to obtain support and resources, Inostroza was continually turned away with the words: ‘No, there is no domestic violence in the Latino community.’

“Grand Rapids wasn’t prepared to face it,” says Inostroza.

Another misconception was the belief that domestic violence was part of the Latino community culture.

“It’s not,” said Inostroza. “It is a lack of formal education. Latino and South American countries are known for lack of formal education.”

Despite the negativity surrounding her, Inostroza refused to give up.

“In the beginning, it was very stressful. I knocked on so many doors. I can’t tell you how many doors.”

Money was also a problem, with only $1,300 for liability insurance. Puertas Abiertas now has a million-dollar budget and 21 staff members.

“It has been a lot of work, a lot of grant writing, a lot of talking,” Inostroza says. “People are supporting the organization and seeing the work being done. We have the trust of the people, but that took work.”

Breaking the cycle

Many children belonging to the Latino community are born into a domestic violence cycle.

“These children are the future generations of the United States,” says Inostroza. “And we don’t see it. We don’t believe that these kids are going to grow up, they are going to become adults, they are going to have families, and the cycle is going to continue.”

Education is necessary, Inostroza continues, to help these children grow, become independent, recognize the difference between need and want – and break the DV cycle.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs defines which needs are most important to survive (Courtesy, Puertas Abiertas)

“This organization was not based on what I wanted to give the community, it was based on what they needed. That is why it has been so successful,” says Inostroza.

“If we don’t provide the services or the education we’re providing, this is going to continue and continue.”

Wins and losses

Inostroza says she has learned a lot since Puertas Abiertas opened its doors, and that recognizing both wins and losses over the past six years is important.

“It’s important because we learn from our mistakes,” says Inostroza. “We have made some mistakes, and we have learned from them so we don’t repeat them again.”

Inostroza’s staff share the Puertas Abiertas mission, vision and values – and share the rewards as well.

“To know [clients] are going to have a bed at night, a place to sleep, is a huge reward for us,” said Inostroza. “To know they are going to have food, to know they are safe, to see their smile, is what has motivated me to keep going. Nothing else.”

And Inostroza is willing to put in the work.

“We have to do the work…and do the best we can to protect the clients and protect the organization. I cannot fail.”

To learn more about Puertas Abiertas or how to support/partner with the organization, click here (English) or here (Español).

Watch this special episode of WKTV Soundbites En Español with host Yeli Romero and Julieta Torres, Gerente de Programas de Puertas Abiertas: Soundbites En Español.

GVSU to host regional Science Olympiad tournament for West Michigan K-12 students March 29

March 25, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, design, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Upcoming Events, West MichiganEducation, Grand Valley State University, Michigan Science Olympiad, science, STEM, tournamentDeborah Reed

Students from 60 teams throughout Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon counties will compete in the Michigan Science Olympiad regional tournament (Supplied)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) will host the 41st Region 12 Michigan Science Olympiad tournament on March 29. The university is welcoming West Michigan middle school and high school students to compete in STEM-related events for a chance to advance to the state tournament.

Science, education and community

Students will test their abilities in a wide range of science-related activities (Supplied)

Nearly 60 teams from schools in Kent, Ottawa and Muskegon counties will participate in the annual celebration of education and science on the university’s Allendale Campus, where students will test their abilities in a wide range of science-related activities.

Teams from 10 high schools and eight middle schools will continue on to the April 26 state tournament.

Grand Valley’s Regional Math and Science Center is hosting the competition, which will also feature an exhibition from 2-4:30 p.m. in the Fieldhouse Arena showcasing STEM opportunities and career paths with participating community and business partners.

The tournament’s events start at 8 a.m., ending around 3 p.m., at venues across GVSU’s Allendale Campus. The awards ceremony begins at 4:30 p.m. at the Fieldhouse Arena.

Competition events

Students will compete in events involving biology, geology, physics, chemistry and engineering.

Examples of the types of events include:

Build events: Students design and construct physical devices such as robot vehicles, towers or rubber-powered helicopters using specified materials and guidelines. These devices are tested during the competition to see how well they perform based on specific criteria.
Lab events: Students test their technical skills by focusing on identification, procedure, measurement and more.
Test events: Students will put pencil to paper and race against time to test their proficiency of science topics.

Cultivating a love for science

The competition’s leaders said they are excited to start the fifth decade of hosting the Region 12 tournament, which tops the state for participation numbers.

“Michigan and GVSU have been involved with the National Science Olympiad organization since its beginning in 1984, allowing us to cultivate students’ love for science by supporting high-impact STEM activities for hundreds of students each year,” said Deborah Herrington, Director of the Center for Experiential Learning in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

“We appreciate the numerous faculty and staff as well as the 200 Grand Valley students who volunteer their time and talents for each tournament, demonstrating GVSU’s commitment to education and the community.”

Davenport University hosting rescheduled MLK events: national speaker, silent march on campus

March 25, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, Culture, Kent County, Upcoming Events, West MichiganBlack community, Davenport University, LaTosha Brown, Martin Luther King JrDeborah Reed

Rescheduled MLK events feature national speaker LaTosha Brown and will take place March 26 and 27 (Courtesy, Davenport U)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Nationally recognized expert in Black women’s empowerment and philanthropy and Black voting rights and suppression, LaTosha Brown, will come to Davenport University as part of several appearances in Grand Rapids to honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Event details

Brown will visit Davenport University’s W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus on March 27 to participate in its annual MLK celebration. The event, will begin with a conversation-style Q&A with Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D., Davenport president and will recognize the winners of the annual MLK Day essay contest.

This event begins at 10 a.m. in Davenport’s auditorium, 6191 Kraft Avenue SE. It will be live streamed for anyone unable to attend in person.

LaTosha Brown will visit Davenport University for a Q&A session and also serve as keynote speaker (Courtesy, Davenport U)

Brown will also serve as the keynote speaker for the 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration on March 26 at Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain Street NE. This special event celebrates Martin Luther King through powerful music, Brown’s keynote address and the announcement of the annual Inherit the Dream Scholarship recipients.

The commemoration, made possible through a longstanding partnership between Davenport University, Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University begins at 6 p.m. and is open to the public. It will also be live streamed for those unable to attend in person.

Recommitting to MLK’s vision

Brown is uniquely poised to lead the MLK celebrations. She has won numerous awards for her work and is the Co-Founder of several groups whose focus is to boost Black voter registration and turnout and increase power in marginalized, predominantly Black communities.

Brown is also the founder and co-anchor of a regional network, Southern Black Girls & Women’s Consortium, that invests in organizations that serve Black women and girls.

Davenport’s MLK events are rescheduled from their original date in January 2025 (Courtesy, Davenport U)

Davenport University President Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D. said as we honor Dr. King, let us recommit ourselves to his vision.

“Let us remember that the fight for equality is far from over, and that each of us has a role to play,” said Pappas. “At Davenport, we pledge to continue doing our part—by educating students, partnering with leaders in our communities and building pathways so all have the opportunity to succeed.”

For more information on the 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration, or the celebration at Davenport, click here.

Wyoming Fire Department responds to March 20 house fire

March 24, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Going Local, Hard News, Kent CountyAmerican Red Cross, City of Wyoming, investigation, residential fire, Wyoming Fire Department, Wyoming Fire Department Fire MarshalDeborah Reed

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

The Wyoming Fire Department responded to a devastating residential fire that occurred last night March 20, at approximately 10:15 p.m. on Oak Valley Ct.

The fire resulted in significant property damage and the tragic loss of multiple family pets. Incidents such as this are devastating especially when beloved family pets are involved.

The first arriving fire units encountered significant fire coming from the front of the entire home and also the vehicles in the driveway. The fire had already spread rapidly throughout the house causing significant damage inside. Residents of the home were able to quickly escape before the fire traveled throughout the home.

Residents of the home were able to quickly escape before the fire traveled throughout the home (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

The fire was contained and extinguished preventing it from fully spreading to nearby homes. Fire crews remained on scene for several hours last night conducting overhaul operations and ensuring hotspots were extinguished.

There were minor injuries reported however patients were assessed at the scene and released.

The fire was initially reported within the garage area of the home. An initial investigation as to the cause is currently underway by the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office. Working smoke alarms were noted during the fire investigation. The displaced residents were assisted by the American Red Cross with initial needs soon after the fire.

Local assistance

The Wyoming Fire Department would like to extend our gratitude to local and municipal partners involved with this fire either directly or indirectly, including Wyoming Police Department, Grandville Fire Department, American Medical Response (AMR), DTE, Consumers Energy, American Red Cross, and John Grace Board Up.

Fire safety

The Wyoming Fire Department reminds the community of the importance of having working smoke alarms, developing an emergency escape plan, and taking precautions to prevent fires.

If you are in need of smoke alarms for your home, please reach out to the Fire Administration Office at 616-530-7250 to discuss available options.

Public assistance

Anyone with additional information regarding this fire is asked to contact the Wyoming Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office Fire Investigator at 616-257-9764.

Local Intensive Outpatient Program provides support for substance use recovery, sees immediate results

March 21, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, Our CitiesCity of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community, Intensive Outpatient Program, Recovery, substance use, support, Teens, treatment, Wedgwood Christian Services, YouthDeborah Reed

Wedgwood’s IOP is one of the few federally funded treatment programs exclusively geared toward adolescents and young adults (Courtesy, Brooke Hoyer)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Wedgwood Christian Services is already seeing positive results from their revived Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), a six-week program that provides support for adolescents and adults with moderate to significant substance use.

Wedgwood’s IOP was relaunched in November 2024 after a brief pause due to staff transitions and low participation. WCS decided to revamp and revive IOP when a need for the program became evident.

“We started seeing a need for it and had some really good team members for that,” said Nick Bayer, Clinical Supervisor at WCS, adding that significant time was spent constructing a plan for the program. “It also gave us a real opportunity to sit down and say, How do we want to do it?”

Topics for each session are pre-planned to guide and retain focus of the group. One change was making IOP a closed group.

“We run it in six-week closed groups where you don’t have kids dropping and dropping out, it’s the same kids coming in,” said Bayer. “It really helped build that connection between people so they don’t have to retell their stories, or a new person doesn’t know what’s going on, as well as establishing a very specific curriculum.”

Why is IOP needed?

Research shows that one in seven teens will need treatment for substance use disorders. However, only 5% of adolescents in Michigan receive the needed treatment. Wedgwood’s IOP is one of the few federally funded treatment programs exclusively geared toward adolescents and young adults.

Engaging clients in therapy two or three days each week, IOP sessions are three hours in length and held at Wedgwood’s Ekhart Counseling Center in Grand Rapids. The program provides guidance, support and a plan for adolescents, young adults, and their families to rebuild lives and provide hope for the future.

Motivational interviewing is a major component in earlier stages of treatment while later stages focus on creating a new lifestyle, coping with triggers and urges, and maintaining a strong commitment to recovery.

WCS offers outpatient, intensive outpatient and residential care for substance use treatment. Bayer describes Wedgwood’s IOP as an in-between stage of care. Though intensive in terms of the amount of work and energy being put in, it does not completely disrupt the participant’s life.

Some youth slotted for residential care often try IOP first since residential availability is often low. IOP offers a higher level of support and therapeutic interventions without the intensity of a residential experience.

Vital connections

Wedgwood’s IOP recently completed the first six-week cohort – and is already seeing positive results.

Bayer said the IOP builds a feeling of support and unity among youth that is desperately needed. With several IOP youth on probation, being surrounded by other youth who understand the emotions of that situation is important.

“It’s one thing for me as an adult to talk with them about what it’s like to navigate the feelings of being a teenager on probation. It’s another thing for a peer also going through it to say, I know what it feels like.”

Access and exposure

Bayer said lack of available resources and the current culture contribute to rising adolescent substance use, with few adolescents receiving needed treatment.

“The nature of being an adolescent is to blame for substance use, different pressures and not knowing about different options,” Bayer said. “They’ve got a lot going on.”

Access and exposure to substances are also significantly higher than in the past. It is not hard to obtain cannabis or marijuana, Bayer said, and cannabis is currently the drug of choice.

“The supply is significant,” said Bayer. “My two-stoplight town has five dispensaries in it, and you see advertisements for it all over. As an adolescent, you’re bombarded with these messages constantly.”

So how do we help our youth?

Wedgwood’s IOP focuses on teaching abstinence and reduction from substances, while also teaching skills and interventions to replace the symptoms of THC and substance use.

“A lot of them are self-medicating,” said Bayer. “They’re having the stress, anxiety and agitation of going through adolescence. They find that maybe cannabis helps them calm down. But now they’re reliant upon it.”

Motivational interviewing – a therapeutic approach using questions and rapport to help clients identify their needs and create their own therapeutic goals – is helpful because it creates ownership in the client.

“It’s really effective when it comes to substance use counseling because the big thing for change is motivation,” said Bayer. “If they don’t want to stop using, they’re not going to. It’s so much more meaningful when the goal comes from the person; they are much more likely to strive to meet that.

“It’s where the therapist is the ally of the individual. They are striving toward their goals, and you are supporting them in getting there.”

Much of that support is helping clients build skills in self-control and in safety when using. Because, Bayer said, there is a high rate of relapse in substance use.

“There’s a phrase we use in addiction treatment: relapse is part of recovery,” said Bayer. “Those that suffer with addictions enter treatment on average six or seven times before they have a sustained remission. It’s just hard, and relapse is part of recovery.”

WCS strives to give positive therapeutic support so clients in a relapse situation are not anxious about returning for care.

A full spectrum of care

Wedgwood’s IOP is accepted by most insurance plans, is licensed by the State of Michigan, and provided in several counties. Learn more about Wedgwood’s IOP and other substance use care here.

To learn more about Wedgwood Christian Services and the care they offer, click here.

Questions can be directed to counseling@wedgwood.org and 616-942-7294.

*Listen to the WCS Coffee Break Conversation podcast episode with Nick Bayer about understanding and supporting recovery here.

(Courtesy, WCS)

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, March 31

March 20, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Food, Going Local, Kent County, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, Feeding America West Michigan, Mobile Food Pantry, Wyoming High SchoolDeborah Reed

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS March Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, March 31 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Wyoming-High-School-Mobile-Food-Pantry-Courtesy-WPS-1024x597.jpg — WHS Mobile Food Pantry Map (Courtesy, WPS)

Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Once in line, a volunteer will approach each car to record the name, address, number of people in the household, and the reason the food is needed for each family. Once a car has reached the front of the line, volunteers will load a box of food into the trunk.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here.

“Mujeres in Business – Breaking Barriers”: Davenport University to Celebrate Women’s International Day with community event

March 18, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Books, Citizen Journalism, Culture, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West MichiganCasa Latina, Davenport University, Education, Entrepreneurs, Latina community, Mujeres in BusinessDeborah Reed

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Davenport University is hosting an empowering networking event and panel discussion for members of the public (Courtesy, Davenport U)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Davenport University is hosting Mujeres in Business: Breaking Barriers, an empowering networking event and panel discussion for members of the public on Thursday, March 20, at 5 p.m.

What to expect

The event will feature a panel of eight Latina entrepreneurs from the book Mujeres in Business: Michigan Edition, authored by Isabel Flores and Zoraida Sánchez. These inspiring business leaders will share their journeys, challenges and triumphs in the world of entrepreneurship.

Panelists for the event include Zoraida Sánchez, Liza Alvarez, María Erazo, María Marquez, Isabel López Slattery, Nohemi Herrera, Alejandra Walters and María Fernanda Gómez.

Mujeres in Business: Breaking Barriers will take place in Davenport’s Robert W. Sneden Center Auditorium on the W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus, 6191 Kraft Ave. SE.

“This event is about celebrating Latina entrepreneurs who have made a lasting impact in Michigan and beyond,” said Alejandra Guillén, Director of Marketing for Casa Latina. “Casa Latina is dedicated to empowering Latino students, professionals, and entrepreneurs by providing opportunities for leadership, education and community engagement.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to network, engage in a panel discussion, and participate in a Q&A session with the featured entrepreneurs. The event is free and the public is encouraged to attend. Event registration can be found here.

One-of-a-kind: Casa Latina

In 2024, Davenport University launched Casa Latina, a one-of-a-kind groundbreaking approach to higher education utilizing bilingual methodology across its curriculum to help students become experts in their chosen fields, and professionally proficient in both English and Spanish.

“This event aligns with our mission to uplift and support the growing influence of Latina leaders in business and beyond,” said Guillén. “We want to showcase their resilience, leadership and contributions to the business community.”

According to Pew Research, Latinos will become nearly 30% of the U.S. population by 2050. However, despite being the fastest growing group, Latinos are the least represented in higher education. In Michigan, Latinos represent 6% of the population, but only 2% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. That is compared to 20% of all Michiganders.

The program, offered 100% online, gives students complete flexibility to learn where they are while always having the support of campus resources.

Learn more about the Casa Latina program here or call 866-383-3548.

“Lunch n Learn” event forges connections between local police, community and city officials

March 18, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, West MichiganAdvocacy, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, collaboration, Community, Grand Rapids Police Department, iCI Nation, Lunch n Learn, Partnership, unity, YouthDeborah Reed

Over 70 community members, city and county officials, and law enforcement officers attended the iCI Nation “Lunch n Learn” event on March 12 (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Over 70 community members, city and county officials, and law enforcement officers attended the iCI Nation “Lunch n Learn” event on March 12.

Held at the Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD), iCI Nation Founder and Executive Director Jennifer Franson hosted the Lunch n Learn event as a way for law enforcement and community to meet and build relationships.

Jennifer Franson welcomes community members to the iCI Nation Lunch n Learn at the GRPD (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“The goal of this right now is building relationships and trust,” said Franson. “Our vision is to unify the city as we protect and serve together.”

iCI Nation has been building successful partnerships between community and law enforcement since 2016. The local nonprofit is dedicated to providing a healthy environment that brings citizens, police officers and organizational resources together to create a stronger and healthier city.

Value in connections

Franson urges police and community to build connections over the shared value of protecting and serving together. Lunch n Learn events are a way to facilitate those connections.

“I want to call out the value of all of you,” Franson said to event attendees. “I want you to try to see each other through that; the value you have, the value they have, and how you – together – are working on the same team.”

GRPD Police Chief Eric Winstrom talks about the value of connections (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

GRPD Police Chief Eric Winstrom sought out genuine connections when he first came to West Michigan. However, being seen as human beings – and not just as the uniform police officers wear – is a challenge, Winstrom said.

“To have people like Jenn Franson who give us the opportunities to connect with people on a regular basis like this, to have easy conversations, positive conversations, but also higher conversations – that’s super vital to the success that we’re seeing,” said Winstrom.

Advocating for our youth

Frank Briones (center) with local youth from his program (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Advocating for Kent County youth was the focus of the Lunch n Learn event.

Event speakers included GRPD Chief Eric Winstrom, Kent County Youth Caseworker Frank Briones, and GRPD Victims Advocate Clorissa Novak.

“Everybody in this room wearing a uniform wants so badly to never put handcuffs on a young person,” said Winstrom. “We want to deal with the root causes. This is not an us against them. We want the best, especially for our kids.”

Briones has worked with Kent County youth for over 20 years. Like Winstrom, Briones realizes the youth coming through his door are not defined by crimes written on an admission form. Often, they come from harmful environments and are struggling.

(Left to right) Peter MacGregor, Jennifer Franson and Lisa Posthumus Lyons (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“It’s not their fault,” said Briones. “I try to advocate for them, I try to help them as much as I can.

“These kids, they’re our future. We made a commitment to be consistent with our youth, to go above and beyond to help them.”

Franson urges the community to think of the hearts and stories behind the headlines.

“We hear the bad [and] we don’t think of the people, the humans behind [the headlines],” said Franson.

Tragedy turns to triumph when we reserve judgement, said Briones. “We have to show [youth] that this is not the end of the line, that there is hope.”

Supporting victims of crime

Clorissa Novak, Victim Services Coordinator at GRPD, supports victims after they experience crime.

The social worker-led program focuses on information, support and resources to make sure victims have what they need both physically and emotionally. Education, Novak added, is also a vital component because many victims of crime do not know their rights.

Chief Winstrom (left) stands in the iCI Nation Kids Closet (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“We are here to make sure people understand what they can expect, help manage expectations, and then support them in a time where our first responders and investigators are doing what they have to do to try to get justice.”

Novak went on to say that the iCI Nation Kids Closet at the GRPD is instrumental in ensuring victims have physical needs such as clothing, toys, backpacks and more.

“It is just meeting folks where they are and trying to make sure that they’re not falling through the gaps,” said Novak. “That they have what they need to get back to that pre-crisis state of function.”

The key to success, Novak said, is collaboration.

“Spread the word,” said Novak. “Let people know that we’re here, that we’re safe folks to talk to.”

Winstrom emphasized the GRPD’s commitment to protect everyone. “We want you to know that if you’re in danger, if you’re being victimized, you can call us.”

Engagement, Collaboration, Partnership

Topics discussed included restorative vs. punitive justice, self-care and needs of individuals and organizations working with youth. Engagement, collaboration and partnership were emphasized repeatedly throughout the discussions.

Engagement, collaboration and partnership are vital to successfully unifying our cities (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

“Community engagement is huge,” said Novak. “People being willing to collaborate, to help our folks or create pathways for referrals is huge. The more relationships we can build the better.”

Briones said he will work with “anyone, anytime, anyplace” to help youth – even when it is hard.

“Sometimes we don’t want to get up and go,” said Briones. “But we do it anyway. We go, one foot in front of the other. We go because they are dependent on us.

“It takes support, love, caring and compassion to help these young people become better people.”

Positive conversations and connections produce support and unity (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

When asked about the GRPD’s greatest need, Winstrom gestured toward event attendees.

“This,” said Winstrom. “More more things like this where we connect on a positive level and work together.

“When the community supports us, we’re all winning. It’s not us against them…we’re co-producing the safest city we can.”

Value & Authenticity = Change

Franson said bringing value and authentic care and love to youth always makes a difference.

“You guys all have it, you guys are all doing it, and I hope that encourages you,” said Franson. “We’re all in this together. We’re all neighbors, we’re all community. We’re working together for each other.”

Kurt (left) often visits with local youth, making them feel valued (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Winstrom agreed: “You’re doing the work; stick with it. It may be difficult, but these kids need adults in their lives who care. That’s going to make all the difference.”

“We have to finish the race,” said Briones. “What we start, we finish. When we can do it together, that’s even better.”

To learn more about iCI Nation, click here. For more information on the iCI Nation Kids Closet, contact Clorissa Novak at cnovak@grcity.us or 616-456-3360.

Lunch n Learn Sponsors

Event sponsors included Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker, Kent County Clerk Lisa Posthumus Lyons and Kent County Treasurer Peter MacGregor. Lunch was provided by The Candied Yam.

Wyoming Police Department investigates shooting on March 15

March 17, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Going Local, Hard News, Kent County, Our CitiesCity of Wyoming, gunshot wound, investigation, Rathbone Street SW, shooting, Wyoming Police DepartmentDeborah Reed

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

One person is injured after a shooting in the 1200 block of Rathbone Street SW.

At approximately 1:45 p.m. on March 15, Wyoming Police responded to a shooting in the 1200 block of Rathbone Street SW. Upon arrival, officers located an adult female suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect fled the scene before police arrived, and no suspect information is available for release at this time.

Wyoming Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

A month of celebration: Rivertown Crossings announces first-ever BLOOM campaign

March 13, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Environment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Business, Our Cities, Recreation, Recycling, Upcoming Events, West MichiganBLOOM, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community, eco-friendly, entertainment, environment, family-friendly, Recreation, RiverTown Crossings, seasonal activitiesDeborah Reed

BLOOM’s month-long festivities allow greater Grand Rapids community members to take part in sustainable practices and seasonal activities (Courtesy, RiverTown Crossings)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

This spring, RiverTown Crossings is proud to present BLOOM, an innovative month-long event series dedicated to sustainability and community engagement.

Starting on March 15 and running through April 26, BLOOM will transform RiverTown Crossings into a vibrant hub of eco-friendly activities and events.

“BLOOM showcases RiverTown Crossings’ dedication to community connection, featuring eco-friendly initiatives and engaging family-friendly events,” says Melissa Brink, Marketing Manager at RiverTown Crossings. “We’re delighted to provide a program that brings together sustainability, creativity, and community to celebrate the season.”

BLOOM aims to inspire and educate visitors on sustainable living practices while fostering a stronger sense of community and promoting fresh beginnings.

A wide variety of fun activities are available for all ages, including:

Document Shredding & Recycling Programs – Saturday, March 15

In celebration of World Recycle Day and in partnership with West Michigan Shredding, the community is encouraged to bring sensitive documents for safe disposal at an on-site shredding truck from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Located in the northeast parking lot near Dick’s Sporting Goods, guests may bring paper-based materials for shredding.

Participants who bring their documents to be shredded can text to enter a giveaway for a chance to win a $100 Uccello’s gift card.

Guests are also encouraged to visit several RiverTown Crossings tenants to support their recycling programs. Tenants include:

H&M – The retailer’s Garment Collection Program allows guests to drop off unwanted clothes from any brand, in any condition to recycle boxes in-store. The collected textiles are sorted for reuse, repurposing, or recycling to reduce waste.
American Eagle – Thinking of getting rid of that old pair of jeans? Bring them into an AE and get $10 toward a new pair! Shoppers must be a Real Rewards member to redeem this offer.
Sephora – Drop off your cleaned-out packaging to Sephora’s dedicated collection bins. In partnership with the nonprofit, Pact, the collected packaging will be repurposed into carpets, pallets, asphalt, new packaging and more.

BLOOM Bike Rodeo (Courtesy, RiverTown Crossings)

World Water Day – Saturday, March 22

In celebration of World Water Day, the center will host multiple environmental groups and vendors from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the lower level Center Court, to provide eco-friendly education and activities. Guests can also sign up to receive a free ‘RiverTown Crossings’ branded water bottle, with purchase at select stores and while supplies last.

Spring Affair – Friday, April 4 through Saturday, April 19

Capture season memories with Easter Bunny photo sessions taking place in Center Court. Fresh from the Home & Garden Show in Grand Rapids, DeHamer Landscaping will install a vibrant display of live plants and flowers for a beautiful spring backdrop. Guests are encouraged to reserve their spots and review photo packages, as space is limited. To reserve a photo session, visit whereisbunny.com.

Spring Break Activities – Saturday, April 12

Celebrating the end of spring break, families are invited to visit the RiverTown Crossings for a series of activities including crafts, coloring, face painting, balloon animals and an egg hunt.

Earth Day: Bike Rodeo – Saturday, April 26

Local law enforcement agencies including the Grandville Police Department, Kent County Sheriff’s Office, Wyoming Police Department and the Walker Police Department are teaming up to host a free Bike Rodeo from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., located in the Dick’s Sporting Goods parking lot.

The event will teach kids essential bike safety skills, including bike repairs, helmet checks and safe riding techniques, and a skills course will be available for those looking to challenge themselves. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own bikes, though a limited number of loaner bikes will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Families can also enjoy exciting giveaways including a wildflower seed in Center Court, and bike raffles throughout the event.

For a full calendar of events, visit www.rivertowncrossings.com/bloom and follow RiverTown Crossings on Facebook and Instagram.

“Surviving War, Oceans Apart” – Author Yanek Mieczkowski shares true story of resilience and hope through adversity, March 18-19

March 13, 20253-bottom, Books, Citizen Journalism, Culture, Kent County, Reading, Upcoming Events, Voices, West MichiganGerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum, history, japan, Oceans Apart, Poland, Surviving War, World War II, Yanek MieczkowskiDeborah Reed

Yanek Mieczkowski’s book, “Surviving War, Oceans Apart,” tells the true story of two teenagers on opposite ends of the globe fighting for survival during World War II (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Museum)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Professor and author Yanek Mieczkowski shares the true narrative of two teenagers destined for life together in his new book, Surviving War, Oceans Apart.

A book discussion and signing will be held at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library in Ann Arbor on March 18, and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids on March 19.

Preserving history…

Author and professor Yanek Mieczkowski (Courtesy, Gerald R. Ford Museum)

Mieczkowski’s parents, Bogdan and Seiko, grew up on opposite ends of the globe yet both found themselves fighting for survival during World War II. Oceans Apart is their story of resilience, hope and love in the face of adversity.

“We’re so glad to be able to welcome Yanek back to the Ford Library and Museum…to share his new book Surviving War, Oceans Apart,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum.

“The themes of resilience, perseverance and the power of hope are timeless and serve to embolden every reader.”

Mieczkowski, a professor at the Florida Institute of Technology, attributes his passion for history and economics to his parents. Mieczkowski has always recognized the value of his parents’ life experiences but recently realized that, with both parents aging, his family history might soon disappear.

“As my parents got older, I realized their stories had tremendous historical value and they needed to be recorded and memorialized or else they would be gone forever,” said Mieczkowski. “If I didn’t record their World War II experiences, they would vanish with them.”

Seiko: Dreams amidst tragedy

In Japan, school was suspended during the war, and Seiko worked in a wartime factory while her older brother trained as a kamikaze pilot. Then Seiko’s older sister died, leaving the teenager devastated.

Members of the Imperial Japanese Navy Kamikaze unit, Daisanryoukotai (Courtesy photo)

“My mother felt shattered after her older sister died. All she could do was continue to read, study and tend to a vegetable garden. That was her daily activity and goal: tend to the vegetables. She had a love for gardening the rest of her life.”

After the war, Seiko resumed her education and began teaching English at a Japanese junior high school in exchange for a tuition reduction. However, Seiko wanted to improve her English skills and traveled to Berea College in Kentucky to work, save money and improve her English.

Only intending to stay one year, Seiko remained long enough to obtain a second college degree. She then traveled to New York City to pursue a graduate degree in history and political science.

As Seiko worked to acquire her dream, Bogdan’s path also led him to New York City.

Bogdan: A lesson in adaptation

The son of an extremely wealthy industrialist, Bogdan experienced an affluent lifestyle…until the Germans invaded Poland.

“All that was taken away,” said Mieczkowski. “It required a lot of adaptation to a radically different life where the family is just scraping by and trying to avoid death. The game was survival.”

Bogdan’s family fled to Warsaw where he fought for the Polish Home Army. During the Warsaw Uprising in 1944, Bogdan sustained severe injuries and endured seven POW camps.

“Every step required tremendous resilience, optimism, adaptation and survival, and those are all themes that I lean into in the book,” said Mieczkowski.

Exhausted soldier of the Polish Home Army emerging from a sewer after escaping from German encirclement (Imperial War Museum)

After the war, Bogdan intended to continue the fight for Poland. “He called it the white knight syndrome,” said Mieczkowski. “He pictured himself going back to his home country, which he loved. His intention was to fight to free Poland from the grip of communism.”

Bogdan quickly realized, however, that his efforts would have been futile. Instead, Bogdan refocused his goals.

Enrolling in courses at London University, Bogdan fell in love with economics and earned a degree.

However, an aura of condescension toward Polish veterans in London unsettled Bogdan, and he immigrated to Chicago. He lived with an uncle and received his masters and doctorate in economics at the University of Illinois. A few years later, Bogdan accepted a position at a Polish research agency in New York City.

A leap of faith…

The title of Mieczkowski’s book portrays a sense of destiny as two paths from opposite sides of the planet converge after a war and immigration to the United States.

“Surviving the war was a feat itself,” said Mieczkowski. “And then meeting – it was a stroke of sheer serendipity.”

Mieczkowski has always admired his parents for their resilience and achievements in the face of adversity. Writing Oceans Apart only increased Mieczkowski’s appreciation for what his parents lived through.

“I got a real appreciation for the hardships, the adversity, my parents lived through, and their ability to bounce back from all that and have a sense of optimism and perseverance through it all.”

Daily survival…

When recording their stories, Mieczkowski individually asked his parents what allowed them to survive the war when everything seemed so bleak. Their responses were identical: It was a day-to-day instinct for survival.

“You get up in the morning, you don’t set huge goals for yourself, you just try to make it through the day,” Mieczkowski said. “You knew in the back of your mind that the war would have an end, but to get to that end you just have to focus on the short-term. And the short-term is just making it through the day.”

A sense of family and the importance of education also sustained Bogdan and Seiko.

“Throughout the war they never gave up on learning,” said Mieczkowski, adding that his mother continued learning about music, chemistry, and other subjects while working at the factory. His father learned English and Italian from fellow POW soldiers and read every newspaper he could find.

“This is amazing, what my parents did, coming from a loss of everything in the war and refocusing, setting new goals of getting educated. I really admired that in my parents and always will.”

A labor of love…

“This was a real labor of love,” said Mieczkowski about Oceans Apart. “This book really hit home [and] by far was the most personal.”

Soldier of the Home Army laying his rifle down after the Uprising’s surrender (Imperial War Museum)

While writing Oceans Apart, Mieczkowski utilized newspapers and magazines from that time period while also reading secondary literature. During that research, he realized how few books explained the Japanese home front experience.

“That’s one of the real contributions of my book, that it gives readers a window to what Japanese citizens experienced during the war, as well as Polish citizens,” said Mieczkowski.

Mieczkwoski also visited the hometowns of his parents in Poland and Japan.

“I got a real sense for the environment in which my mother grew up,” said Mieczkowski. “It was a beautiful city with a latticework of canals that wind through the city. I got a real sense for the placid life my mother led up until the war.”

Bogdan’s family home in Bydgoszcz, Poland – built by Mieczkowski’s grandfather – was still standing.

“I got a real feeling for what my father lived with when he was growing up, this very comfortable life, and then having to leave suddenly,” Mieczkowski said. “Being in those countries really helped me to write and narrate my parents’ stories a lot better than I could if I had never gone there.”

A unique contribution…

Mieczkowski said Oceans Apart is a unique contribution to World War II literature because it offers a transnational experience. It is also as personal as it is factual.

“Readers can hear my parents’ voices through this, and I hope readers can be inspired by this book and by my parents’ experiences,” said Mieczkowski.

Bogdan Mieczkowski passed away in 2020 at the age of 95. Seiko is approaching her 96th birthday and resides in Cocoa Beach, FL with Yanek.

Event registration and additional resource links:

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library (Ann Arbor) – March 18

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (Grand Rapids) – March 19

Read more about Bogdan’s wartime and combat experiences here and here.

Learn more about Yanek Mieczkowski’s published works, including an essay and book on Gerald R. Ford, here.

Gerald R Ford Museum (Courtesty, Deborah Reed WKTV)

City of Wyoming revitalization projects are underway, show visible progress

March 7, 20253-bottom, architecture, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Culture, design, Development, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Our Cities, West Michigan28th Street, City of Wyoming, Community, development, Godwin Mercado, pedestrian bridge, Site 36, Wyoming [re]Imagined, Wyoming City Center, Wyoming Parks & Recreation DepartmentDeborah Reed

The City of Wyoming has spent two decades [re]Imagining its future, and is making steady progress in making those dreams a reality (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

The City of Wyoming has spent two decades [re]Imagining its future, and is making steady progress in making those dreams a reality.

The Wyoming City Center plans include many facets geared toward creating a central gathering place accessible by walking.

“What’s happened in recent years has been a calling for a return to the traditional development patterns of downtown,” said Wyoming Deputy City Manager Patrick Waterman. “Main streets where people can get out and walk, and shop, and come together as a community.”

28th Street Pedestrian Bridge

Those driving down 28th Street can now see the installation of a new 12-foot wide elevated pedestrian bridge.

The ADA accessible bridge will accommodate two-way pedestrian and bicycle traffic across 28th Street and is part of 4.6 miles of new non-motorized pathways providing access to various key destinations in the City.

28th Street elevated pedestrian bridge (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
28th Street elevated pedestrian bridge (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
28th Street elevated pedestrian bridge (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
28th Street elevated pedestrian bridge (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

“We’re trying to put the spokes into the hub to get people,” said Waterman. “Those [trails] will connect north to Grand Rapids and south to Byron Center.”

The City Center’s proximity to the highway and Silver Line bus route will also provide easy access to the downtown area. Construction of the pedestrian bridge will finish in June 2025.

Godwin Mercado Marketplace

Also making steady progress is the forthcoming local Godwin Mercado marketplace at Site 36 Industrial Park.

An 80-acre parcel of land with 75 acres on the south side of 36th Street, Site 36 includes an additional five acres on the north side dedicated to the marketplace.

Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Godwin Mercado marketplace site (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

City Manager John Shay says Godwin Mercado answers residents’ call for a community space to gather and hold events.

The 6,000-square-foot market space will provide year-round usage opportunities to support local vendors, seasonal farm and artisan markets, food trucks, community events and private events.

The name Godwin Mercado comes from extensive community input that included residents, community members and business leaders. Godwin Mercado not only serves as a gathering space and point of pride for the greater Wyoming community, it honors the rich heritage and thriving modern culture of the neighborhood where it sits.

“We landed on a name that really connects us to this unique neighborhood and celebrates the community here in Wyoming,” said Krashawn Martin, Wyoming Director of Parks and Recreation, at the groundbreaking ceremony in November 2024.

36th Street Industrial Park

Construction on the 75-acre parcel on the south side of 36th Street is also well underway. The former GM plant was sold to commercial real estate investment company Franklin and Partners in 2022 and now boasts cleared land and structure assembly.

Benteler Automotive‘s new battery components assembly plant will focus on production of a battery tray, tray cover and charging modules weld vent for the V801 Ford Transit Van. The project includes a 299,845-square-foot facility and an additional 17,120-square-foot single-story office area.

“It’s a huge investment in the community,” said Nicole Hofert, Director of Community and Economic Development for Wyoming.

City officials estimate the Benteler plant will generate 150-170 new jobs.

Construction on Site 36 includes development of three land parcels for industrial use (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

In March 2024, the Wyoming City Council approved Corewell Health’s proposal for a 296,515-square-foot consolidated service center. The project will provide space for Corewell Health’s supply chain offices, document and mail services, a 36,000-square-foot shell space and a dedicated parking area for lab courier fleet vehicles.

All medical supplies for the region’s Corewell hospitals will be distributed from this centralized location and will generate an estimated 240 new jobs.

Franklin Partners retains ownership of the third and final Site 36 parcel, which has garnered notice by other businesses.

“It’s about the people.”

“The genuine excitement that Wyoming has about this project, it’s carried us through it,” said Martin. “People are just thrilled to see something happening after there being nothing here for so long.

“Feeling their excitement feeds our excitement and gets us where we need to go to make it happen. That’s what it’s all about – it’s about the people.”

Over the next decade, Shay would like to achieve the City’s vision of crowded sidewalks, shops and restaurants, and special events that will bring people together and strengthen that sense of community.

Wyoming City Center plaza rendering (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)

Wyoming [re]Imagined: Learn More!

Click the following links to learn more about the City of Wyoming, [re]Imagined:

Consumers Energy offers energy bill help options for seniors in need

March 5, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Finances, How-To's, Kent County, Senior Living, Weather, West MichiganConsumers Energy, energy bills, financial assistance, Senior Check-ins, Senior livingDeborah Reed

Customers can get peace of mind with energy bill payments by taking advantage of this free Senior Check-in program (Courtesy, Consumers Energy)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Michigan’s frigid winter has left its mark. For senior customers who may have seen a seasonal increase in their bills this winter, Consumers Energy stands ready to assist by connecting those ages 65+ with energy saving strategies and payment resources to help them pay their heating costs.

Through March 31, Consumers Energy will be proactively reaching out to select senior citizens with an opportunity to review seniors’ accounts and offer personalized payment assistance options to get them back in control of their energy bills.

“We want our customers to know that we are here for them 24/7, in any season,” said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy’s Vice President of Customer Experience. “And that means we’re here to help them save energy and save money.

“Whether it’s through our various energy saving programs or through our payment assistance options, we can help our neighbors most in need.”

Cost saving tips

Home heating costs account for about 30% of customers’ energy bills, with water heaters alone accounting for almost 15%. In addition to payment assistance options, Consumers Energy reminds customers there are some simple steps they can take to limit their usage and save even more.

One of the easiest ways to save is by installing a programmable smart thermostat. Doing so could save as much as 20 percent on heating costs. Customers typically save 1-3% for every degree they dial down their thermostat.

Customers can also save money by installing a programmable or wi-fi thermostat, often at reduced costs through ConsumersEnergyStore.com.

The Senior Check-ins will connect customers with the various payment assistance resources available that apply to their situation (Courtesy, pxhere.com

How to participate in Senior Check-in

Seniors interested in participating in the Senior Check-in can call 888-535-9280 Monday-Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. The Senior Check-ins will connect customers with the various payment assistance resources available that apply to their situation.

As a senior citizen, you qualify for the following assistance:

Winter Protection: Pay part of your charges through winter months while being protected from a service disconnect during the season.
Electric Senior Citizen Bill Credits: This income assistance credit is designed to help seniors on fixed incomes.
- The Electric Senior Citizen provision helps you with your electric bill with an added credit of $4 to your bill each month. Qualifying customers must meet age requirements and be the head of the household.
- If you are eligible to receive the Electric Income Assistance credit, you will no longer receive the Electric Senior Citizen credit.

More resources:

Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency: Local agencies that are located within communities around the state that provide a variety of senior services and activities.
Elder Law of Michigan: Older adults and people with disabilities can get help paying for the cost of basic needs like food, medicine, healthcare, utilities, housing and taxes.
If your income is at or below 110% of the federal poverty level, you may qualify for the Home Heating Credit. You may apply for a Home Heating Credit for the 2024 tax year to help pay your energy bill. Even if you live in a rented apartment, mobile home or your income does not require you to file taxes, you can still apply for this credit. The deadline for filing the 2024 Michigan Home Heating Credit Claim MI-1040CR-7 is Sept. 30.

There is additional help available for anyone who needs assistance with their energy bill, no matter your age. Call 2-1-1, a free resource that connects people with nonprofit organizations or visit consumersenergy.com/assistance.

For more information about Consumers Energy, visit ConsumersEnergy.com.

UPDATE: Wyoming Police Department investigates shooting, arrest suspect

March 5, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Crime Prevention, Hard News, Kent County, Our Cities, West MichiganCity of Wyoming, Clyde Park Avenue, shooting, Wyoming Police DepartmentDeborah Reed

One person is injured after a shooting in the 2700 Block of Clyde Park Avenue SW (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

UPDATE: A suspect is in police custody following a shooting that took place on March 4, 2025, in the 2700 block of Clyde Park Avenue SW.

At approximately 3 p.m. on March 6, 2025, officers arrested a 43-year-old male resident of Wyoming without incident. The suspect’s name is being withheld pending arraignment.

Original WPD Press Release

One person is injured after a shooting in the 2700 Block of Clyde Park Avenue SW.

At approximately 4:10 p.m. on March 4, Wyoming Police and Fire personnel responded to the report of a shooting in the 2700 block of Clyde Park Avenue SW. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound.

The victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect fled the scene.

Initial investigation suggests this was a targeted incident involving individuals known to each other.

Avoid unverified information

At this time, Wyoming Police are not releasing suspect information.

The Wyoming Police Department is aware of numerous social media posts circulating potential suspect and vehicle information related to the March 4 shooting. However, the department has not released any suspect or vehicle details.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation by Wyoming Police Detectives and Forensic Science Unit, and the WPD urges the public to avoid using unverified information.

Contact information

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Wyoming Police detectives at 616-530-7300 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345; 1-866-774-2345; or https://www.silentobserver.org.

State of the Child conference on March 10 features local teens, discussion on challenges youth face

March 3, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Local Business, Local Faces, Mental Health, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, Voices, West Michiganconference, Dr. Angela Pharris, Maranda, mental health, State of the Child, support, Wedgwood Christian Services, YouthDeborah Reed

Local teens, community leaders and experts will convene to discuss the toughest challenges youth currently face and offer insight into how best to provide support (Courtesy, WCS)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Local teens, community leaders and experts will convene on Monday, March 10 for the Wedgwood Christian Services (WCS) annual State of the Child (SOTC) conference to discuss the toughest challenges youth currently face.

Held at Frederik Meijer Gardens from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., SOTC provides an opportunity to talk about these challenges and offer insight into how best to provide support.

What to expect

Led by a team of local teenagers in collaboration with a panel of community experts, SOTC will feature a panel discussion with local experts in various fields, a keynote speaker, breakout sessions and – most importantly – insights from teens themselves.

SOTC resonates with families and caregivers of youth due to the direct involvement of local youth (Courtesy, WCS)

Brina Tiemeyer, WCS Director of Clinical services, says SOTC resonates with families and caregivers of youth due to the direct involvement of local youth.

“We have a panel of experts that sit on the stage, but all of the information that we’re talking about is brought to us from teens,” Tiemeyer told WKTV. “We hear directly from their mouths what they’re facing, what their opinions are on how they’re experiencing it, and then we have the experts’ response.”

Featured keynote speaker Dr. Angela Pharris, PhD MSW, will address the Science of Hope. Pharris’ research centers on child welfare and human service organizations, applying a hope-centered and trauma-informed framework.

The breakout session topics are directly driven by local teens each year. WCS partner Maranda with WOOD TV8 regularly ventures out onto the streets to engage youth in conversation.

“Local kids from all walks of life have the opportunity to talk, to say what they are experiencing or what they see their peers experiencing,” said Brooke Jevicks, WCS VP of Advancement.

In preparation for the breakout sessions, WCS also formed a committee that leans into several industries. Leaders in state government, educators, therapists and social workers, healthcare leaders, nonprofit leaders and representatives from the court system are all involved in the planning process.

The goal is to provide tangible takeaways for all types of caregivers for children.

“We try to make sure as many industries as possible that work or influence a child’s life have a voice in this event,” said Jevicks. “One of Wedgwood’s core values is diversity and inclusivity. It’s really important to us to make sure that we’re getting voices from all over the community to speak into what we are hearing and seeing so we know what would be most helpful to families, or anybody that’s working with children.”

Positivity produces resiliency

SOTC’s overarching theme that “the state of the child is up to you” led Wedgwood to lean into The Power of One concept for the 2025 conference.

“The science of hope ties into that because there’s data that shows if a kid has just one positive adult in their life, they have a huge opportunity to have a different trajectory than what other kids might,” said Jevicks. “Being that for a kid gives that kid hope, and that’s what will change their whole brain chemistry.”

Tiemeyer agreed: “All mental health and evidence based practice says that the number one resiliency factor to recovering from trauma is having one positive caregiver who makes a child feel that they are safe, lovable and capable.”

Because of this, Tiemeyer emphasizes that SOTC is not just for those serving youth in a professional capacity.

“This conference is for anyone that interacts or even cares for children,” said Tiemeyer. “Our audience is everyone. If you care about children, you should be there. If you have a heart for children, come to State of the Child; everyone is welcome.”

Safety and empowerment in community

For the past 65 years, WCS has been a leader in identifying the need to care for the whole family in order to care for the child, and has remained committed to the mental, emotional and behavioral well-being of both youth and families.

SOTC guests will walk away with resources and a community of support (Courtesy, WCS)

“We are increasing awareness, educating the community, so that people can be empowered to know how to be a good advocate, how to empower our kids to advocate for themselves,” said Jevicks, adding that it is important to know it is okay to ask for help – and that it is okay to not be okay.

“Life is hard,” Jevicks said. “We are born into a broken world, and life is really difficult, and our kids are struggling. Learning more and being empowered helps you empower others.”

Jevicks admitted that the SOTC conference is one of her favorite annual Grand Rapids events.

“It is so thoughtful, it is so intentional, it is so impactful,” said Jevicks, adding that SOTC creates a safe community. “Nobody at State of the Child is judging somebody for what they, or their kids, are going through. It’s a place where everybody can feel heard and seen and valued, and a safe place to talk about it.”

Knowledge, empowerment and community

Knowledge is power – and that is what you will receive at SOTC.

“There is no way you can leave that event without walking away with new information, feeling like you have more tools in your tool belt, feeling like you’re not alone, that there’s a community to go to and be a part of in these hard conversations,” said Jevicks.

Each SOTC guest will receive several tip sheets on a variety of subjects, including how to build resilience, when to know to ask for therapy, stress management and more.

“Wedgwood really wants to be a partner in your life because we know where families and kids are,” said Jevicks. “We want you to thrive at home; that’s what we’re here for.”

SOTC, Tiemeyer said, is the first step to building that community that walks alongside families. “Our goal is to always be alongside them and to empower them to be as successful as they are capable of being.”

Helpful Links

To learn more about the comprehensive services WCS offers, click here.

Arts and culture sector in Grand Rapids has annual $300 million economic impact

February 28, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Culture, Finances, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Our Cities, Recreation, West MichiganArts & Culture, Arts & Culture Collective of Grand Rapids, Community, Culture, economy, Grand Valley State University, Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities, Greater Grand Rapids, KConnect, Seidman College of Business, The Right Place, West MichiganDeborah Reed

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

A comprehensive economic impact study underscoring the significant contributions of the city’s arts and cultural sector reveals that the Arts & Culture Collective of Grand Rapids (ACCGR) participating organizations generate over $300 million in economic impact annually.

These institutions attract nearly 1.3 million visitors each year to the Greater Grand Rapids area and employ 2,500 individuals.

The study was released by the ACCGR supported by the City of Grand Rapids, and in collaboration with KConnect and the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University.

“The arts and culture sector is a powerhouse for our region,” said Tim Mroz, Senior Vice President of Community Development at The Right Place and an ACCGR Steering Committee Member. “Generating over $300 million in annual economic impact and supporting 2,500 jobs, these institutions are at the heart of our community’s growth and vitality.

“They are not only cultural treasures but also key drivers of economic prosperity, proving that investing in our local institutions is investing in our future.”

Above and beyond

Beyond the economic figures, the arts are an integral part of what makes Grand Rapids a dynamic and thriving community.

Cultural vitality enriches residents’ lives and attracts businesses and talent (Courtesy, The Stray)

The sector fosters creativity, inspires innovation, and provides a platform for diverse voices to be heard, strengthening the social fabric of the region. This cultural vitality not only enriches residents’ lives but also attracts businesses and talent, reinforcing the area’s reputation as a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

“This initial study begins to quantify what we already know: arts and culture play a vital role in our community,” said Steff Rosalez, Co-Chair of ACCGR and CEO of Grandville Avenue Arts & Humanities. “Beyond enriching our cultural landscape, these organizations are pivotal economic drivers.

“Fostering tourism is just one part of our economic impact. The arts and culture sector creates jobs, supplements education, and enhances the overall quality of life, which encourages people who work in other sectors to live here, invest here, and raise families here.”

The ripple effects of this impact extend far beyond the arts sector itself. Local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments, benefit from the influx of visitors attending performances, exhibitions, and events.

A vital relationship

This relationship between the arts and the local economy underscores the essential role of nonprofit arts and culture organizations as both a cultural cornerstone and a key economic contributor to Kent County.

The Verve Pipe performs in the greater Grand Rapids area regularly (Courtesy, The Verve Pipe)

ACCGR remains dedicated to advocating for the arts and cultural sector, aiming to leverage these findings to inform policy decisions and encourage continued investment in the creative economy.

Read the executive summary and explore the complete study here.

About the ACCGR

The ACCGR is an arts + cultural collective leveraging the power of creativity for equitable social transformation. By leading initiatives such as a countywide economic impact study and the development of a comprehensive Arts and Culture Plan, ACCGR is building the infrastructure necessary for a thriving, equitable arts ecosystem.

Learn more at www.accgr.org.

A local university and construction institute partner to address skilled trades needs

February 25, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Education, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Our Cities, West MichiganEducation, Grace Christian University, job market, Partnership, Skilled trades, students, West Michigan Construction InstituteDeborah Reed

A unique alliance offers local students an opportunity to earn a college degree while gaining nationally recognized trade certifications (Courtesy photo)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

To address the growing need for skilled tradespeople, Grace Christian University (GCU) and the West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI) have formally signed a partnership agreement that allows students to earn a college degree while gaining nationally recognized trade certifications.

Located just 2.6 miles apart, GCU and WMCI offer a seamless blend of programs that empower students to excel academically, professionally and in some cases, spiritually. Sixteen students will begin the program in the fall semester of 2025.

Tuition is billed separately. GCU students pay standard tuition rates for courses at the university. WMCI’s tuition is $2,000 per semester, regardless of program.

Both institutions are committed to helping students maximize financial aid opportunities, including federal grants, community funding and unique partnering scholarships with local construction-related companies.

GCU President Ken Kemper (left) and WMCI President Jen Schottke shake hands to commemorate the new partnership between their organizations (Courtesy, GCU / WMCI)

The best of both worlds

For students, this means the best of both worlds. They can grow in their faith, develop marketable skills and graduate with the tools to make an eternal impact in their communities. This partnership allows employers to hire well-rounded, highly qualified candidates ready to lead in the construction industry.

“In today’s evolving job market, many students are seeking alternatives to traditional four-year degrees,” said Jen Schottke, President of WMCI. “At the same time, employers in industries like construction are searching for candidates with both technical skills and leadership capabilities.

“We believe this partnership will blend the two by allowing students to earn a college degree while gaining nationally recognized trade certifications.”

Dr. Ken Kemper, GCU President, echoed Schottke’s sentiments: “We are creating an innovative educational pathway that bridges Bible-centered higher education and hands-on trade skills.

“We think this partnership is a game-changer for students seeking to combine their passion for skilled trades with the transformative impact of a biblical education.”

Filling a vital gap

Skilled Trade careers often require less schooling and debt than a four-year degree – and offer a wide range of opportunities for students.

Michigan employers, more than ever before, are seeking talent to fill jobs in fields such as healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, construction and automotive.

“A sizable professional trades shortage exists in Michigan and is expected to continue through 2030,” stated the Pure Michigan Talent Connect website.

“Professional trades will account for more than 520,000 jobs in the Michigan economy, and approximately 45,000 new job openings are expected annually in the state during that time.”

The collaboration between GCU and WMCI offers flexible options tailored to students’ academic and career goals that can help fill that skilled tradesmen gap.

Choose what works for you…

Options offered through the recent partnership between GCU and WMCI include:

Flexible options tailored to students’ academic and career goals will be offered (Courtesy, DU)

Integrated Bachelor’s Program
WMCI certifications transfer seamlessly as block credits toward Grace’s on-campus or online bachelor’s programs. Students can complete their degree while growing professionally in their chosen trade.
Dual Enrollment
Students can enroll in prescribed courses at Grace while earning certifications in carpentry, drywall, or other construction trades through WMCI. This pathway is ideal for high school graduates eager to start working while pursuing a degree.
Transfer Pathway
Students who complete a two-year associate degree at Grace can transfer to WMCI to pursue trade certifications. This approach provides a strong academic foundation, allowing students to specialize in construction.

Top-tier resources

Students in this partnership benefit from top-tier resources at both institutions. From state-of-the-art labs to personalized career support, the programs are designed to equip students with everything they need to succeed.

At GCU, students gain access to a biblically centered education that shapes their worldview and prepares them for leadership. Programs emphasize personal growth, community service and a commitment to Christ’s teachings.

Kemper (left) and Schottke will provide top-tier resources for students at both institutions (Courtesy, GCU / WMCI)

At WMCI, students experience facilities that are among the best in the industry. Four interactive learning labs provide hands-on training in trades like carpentry, plumbing and sprinkler fitting. Nine modern classrooms facilitate in-depth learning and discussions, and a climate-controlled sandpit allows students to practice concrete and plumbing skills during winter months.

All WMCI programs are accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), ensuring students graduate with nationally recognized certifications. These portable credentials allow students to transfer credits to other institutions or relocate without starting over.

Creating unique opportunities

Both organization leaders note that this endeavor will create a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs.

“Many students enter WMCI programs with the dream of owning their own construction company. Through this collaboration, students gain the technical skills needed to master their trade at WMCI while studying business principles at Grace Christian University,” noted Schottke.

“Grace’s business courses cover essential topics like financial management, marketing and leadership. These skills complement WMCI’s trade training, enabling graduates to launch and grow successful businesses grounded in Christian values,” added Kemper.

The GCU and WMCI partnership plans to expand to include additional enrollment periods, new courses and expanded dual-enrollment pathways for high school students.

Local construction firms could also reap benefits from this partnership.

“The partnership between Grace Christian University and West Michigan Construction Institute is an excellent way to prepare and equip people in our community to follow God’s calling to work in the construction industry,” said Craig Baker, Owner of First Companies.

“We are very thankful for this partnership and how it will improve the workforce in West Michigan.”

The Big Freeze: Local university students lower their tuition bill with chilly winter challenge!

February 25, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Entertainment, Environment, Finances, Going Local, Kent County, Local Faces, Recreation, WeatherCity of Wyoming, fundraiser, Grace Christian University, The Big Freeze, tuition, winter challengeDeborah Reed

The Big Freeze 2025 participants lowered their tuition bill by spending at least three seconds in an icy pool (Courtesy, Craig Clark)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Twenty-one students at Grace Christian University (GCU) spent three seconds in an icy inflatable pool on Feb. 19 to help lower their tuition bill.

Organized by GCU’s Advancement and Student Affairs departments – and aptly named The Big Freeze – this third annual fundraising event was held on campus grounds.

**But…it’s winter…in Michigan!**

Event coordinators Emily Lazor (GCU Advancement Coordinator) and Rebeccah Karsten (GCU Community Life Coordinator) said The Big Freeze was launched when university staff decided to use the cold Michigan weather to their students’ advantage.

“Winter in Michigan, compared to the other seasons, narrows the options for student activities and donor events,” said Lazor and Karsten. “So rather than fight the elements, we decided to use the cold weather as a focal point to provide a unique scholarship opportunity for our students.”

The lighthearted event attracted a crowd of faculty, students, staff and event families who watched the brave souls fully immerse themselves in a small inflatable pool for at least three seconds.

“Splash for cash”

A 2024 Big Freeze participant enters the frigid pool (Courtesy, GCU)

Student participants, known as The Blue Crew, raised $13,475. GCU awarded matching gifts to the first 10 students to raise $250 ($2,500), and the top 10 fundraisers earned additional scholarships ranging from $100 for tenth place to $1,000 for the top earner ($5,500), bringing total money awarded to $21,475.

All funds raised are applied directly to the student’s account for the current semester.

This year’s three highest-earning students were:

Triston Murray $3,910
Tammy Perrotta $3,400
Stacy Delgado $2,948

This is quite the increase from The Big Freeze’s inaugural year that yielded five student participants raising $3,355.

A personal (frosty) stake

Lazor and Karsten say that GCU students are never left without resources. Students are continuously coached toward affordable education paths, and fundraisers are no exception. Event leaders are available with resources, advice and guidance as students learn to advocate for their educational endeavors.

A bonfire helped ward off the winter chill (Courtesy, Craig Clark)

“[The Big Freeze] is a unique experience, it yields a high return on investment, and they can really show their creative side,” Lazor and Karsten said. “Three icy seconds is worth every penny, no matter the amount raised. Who couldn’t use some extra money to lower their tuition bill?”

Many students who participate in The Big Freeze have multiple part-time jobs, or even full-time jobs, in addition to being full-time students. Any opportunity to have friends, family and community members partner in their fundraising efforts has an immediate impact to reduce the cost of their education.

GCU staff and faculty are always “on board” to support students (Courtesy, GCU 2024)

“There is never an off-season when it comes to meeting student’s needs or supporting their financial journey of higher education.”

GCU staff and faculty are always “on board” to support the university students – and this fun, yet frosty, event is no exception.

“We enjoy watching our students succeed academically, athletically, or professionally,” said Lazor and Karsten. “Supporting their fundraising efforts is another way to come alongside them to let them know we value them as students.”

Dedication and anticipation

The Big Freeze was generously underwritten by The Velting Foundation.

GCU staff and students are deeply grateful to all the generous donors and supporters who made this event possible.

For those inspired by the dedication of GCU’s students, donations are still being accepted in support of student scholarships. GCU’s 2025 fall tuition is $19,500.

An event participant makes a big splash while a blanket is held ready and waiting after they emerge (Courtesy, Craig Clark)

For more information on this chilly annual event, visit the event page for additional details. A video showcasing the 2024 event can be found at this YouTube link.

“We are already anticipating next year’s excitement!”

Luxury pet hotel taking over former TGIF’s at Woodland Mall

February 24, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, Development, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Pets/Animals, West MichiganAdvantage Commercial Real Estate, Dogs, K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel, pets, TGIF, Woodland MallDeborah Reed

K9 Resorts to open first Michigan location this summer (Courtesy photo)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Advantage Commercial Real Estate advisors Thomas Vredevelt and Mark Ansara have assisted luxury pet hotel chain K9 Resorts in acquiring the former TGIF’s building adjacent to Woodland Mall (3345 28^th Street) where K9 will open the franchise’s first location in Michigan.

Demolition of the former 9,300 square foot TGIF’s building is nearly complete. Construction is expected to begin soon after. The City of Kentwood gave unanimous approval for rezoning and issued a Special Land Use permit.

Making their way to West Michigan

K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel of Grand Rapids owners Megan and Mark Ivaska began pursuing opening a K9 Resorts in the region in late 2023. The couple began working with Advantage in 2024, finally landing on the Woodland Mall property.

“From day one, there was grit that Mark and Thomas at Advantage brought to the process. The location exceeds our expectations on indoor and outdoor play space, and we can’t wait to share that with the community,” said Megan Ivaska.

K9 was looking for a location in a retail area within 10-15 minutes of the airport (Courtesy photo)

“We needed to be in a retail area within 10-15 minutes of the airport,” added co-owner Mark Ivaska. “It does not get better than being at the corner of 28th Street and the Beltline. It’s hard to believe this property was on the market for nearly five years.

“Advantage delivered an opportunity and guided us to reach a fantastic deal well below the listing price and within our budget.”

An award-winning franchise

Founded in 2005, K9 Resorts is widely regarded as providing unparalleled and unmatched service for dog boarding and dog daycare. The brand has already been a five-time Pet Care Excellence award winner from the International Boarding & Pet Services Association, and has earned multiple “Best of” local awards throughout the franchise system.

“It is easy to say we are in the pet care business. While true, our focus is more closely tied to the hospitality industry,” said Ivaska. “We don’t benchmark against others in the boarding space. We benchmark against organizations like Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons and even Disney.

“We want to delight our four-legged guests and wow our clients who entrust members of their families to us.”

K9 Resorts is unique in the pet care industry with its commitment to luxury, health and safety.

The resorts provide a cage-free environment where guests can enjoy all-day group play or private playtime with a staff member. Rooms are segmented and designed with soundproofing materials integrated throughout construction and design to reduce sound and stress for the pets. The facility prioritizes cleanliness and sanitation, maintaining standards that resemble a hospital.

All staff members are trained and certified by national pet associations, emphasizing dogs’ health, safety and behavioral needs, along with ongoing education to ensure they are up-to-date with best practices.

High-end success

“K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel of Grand Rapids has secured one of the most desirable locations in the metro Grand Rapids region,” said Advantage Commercial Real Estate Principal Senior Vice President Mark Ansara.

“This pet boarding and daycare center will turn many heads with its high-end appearance. We are excited to see them succeed.”

FREE shows highlight Gilda’s 15th annual LaughFest, March 5-9

February 24, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Mental Health, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West Michiganfamily-friendly, festival of laughter, free events, Gilda's Club Grand Rapids, Gilda's Club LaughFest, laughterDeborah Reed

The 15th annual LaughFest Festival will offer 45 free and ticketed shows with venues in Grand Rapids, Lowell and Gun Lake Casino and Resort in Wayland (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

With Gilda’s LaughFest less than a month away, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids announced the 15th annual event will offer 45 free and ticketed shows with venues in Grand Rapids, Lowell and Gun Lake Casino and Resort in Wayland.

Included in the free events are a new LaughFest kickoff event, several LaughFest favorites, and a variety of family-friendly shows.

There is something funny for everyone at LaughFest (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)

“LaughFest is very much a festival where there really is something funny for everyone,” said Wendy Wigger, President and CEO of Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. “Now in our 15th year, we’re excited to bring some great free shows, as well as events that families can enjoy and join in the laughter together.”

What is LaughFest?

Laughter is celebrated at LaughFest (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)

Launched in March 2011, Gilda’s LaughFest is the nation’s first-ever community-wide festival of laughter. The festival has quickly earned a reputation for being one of the nation’s marquee events for both participants and artists.

Based in Grand Rapids and including events throughout West Michigan, LaughFest celebrates and honors laughter as an essential part of emotional health and wellbeing.

Featuring stand-up, improv, showcases and more, LaughFest brings together a diverse audience of children and adults every March.

NEW LaughFest kickoff event:

Kicking off LaughFest is a new free event, Celebrity Clue Scavenger, on Feb. 26. The scavenger hunt will feature six teams comprised of 4-6 clever sleuths, embarking on a quest to decipher cryptic clues.

Handed out by local media celebrities, comedians Matt Lauria and Allen Trieu, and local celebrity chef Tommy FitzGerald, the clues will lead teams to six unique locations within a one-mile radius throughout downtown Grand Rapids.

Family Improv brings lots of laughs (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)

**Free LaughFest shows:**

March 5 @ Midtown – The Cancer Survivor Showcase: Local comedians who have all experienced cancer share their stories – with a twist.

March 6 @ Midtown – We Are SO Lucky: Allen Trieu’s hybrid stand-up and stage show features his personal journey of heartbreak, love, healing and self-discovery during an unexpected divorce.

A VR Showcase participant engages on stage while audience members watch the simulcast (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)

March 8 @ The B.O.B. – The Virtual Reality Showcase: See comedians live on stage through VR simulcasted to TV screens in Dr. Grins. VR headsets are not required to view the live performance and will not be provided.

March 9 @ Spectrum Entertainment Complex – Sunday Night Funnies: Features up-and-coming talent and a 50/50 raffle with all proceeds going to Gilda’s Club of GR.

**Free family-friendly LaughFest shows:**

Youth enjoy sharing their jokes on stage (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)

NEW! March 6 @ Resurrection Fellowship Church – Gospel Fest: Hosted by the Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids Sister-to-Sister Breast Cancer Support Group for Women of Color, the event consists of laughter, praise, and shared song with clean comedian Lena Green.

March 8 @ Gilda’s Club GR – Kids Joke Time: Young comedians from West Michigan have submitted their favorite jokes and will take the mic. Comedian Allen Trieu will host.

March 8 @ Gilda’s Club GR – Family Improv: Families get silly playing improvised games while finding new ways to use their imaginations on a rainy day. Led by local improv instructors at The Comedy Project. No improv experience required.

March 5 @ LowellArts! and March 8 @ Gilda’s Club GR – Drums for All with Josh Dunigan: This event is the product of conversations and collaborations Dunigan had with those living with various disabilities. Dunigan provides the drums, participants bring hands and smiles.

All ages enjoy Josh Dunigan’s Drums for All program (Courtesy, Gilda’s Club GR)

Event info / Ticket purchases

The full lineup of free events, as well as ticket information, can be found at laughfestgr.org.

Dinner and show tickets for the Red Door Gala featuring Preacher Lawson are available at gildasclubgr.org/red-door-gala.

SNF’s third annual Women’s History Month standup comedy performance set for March 2

February 20, 20252-row, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Entertainment, Going Local, Kent County, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Our Cities, Upcoming EventsCity of Wyoming, comedy, entertainment, Spectrum Entertainment Complex, Sunday Night Funnies, Women's History MonthDeborah Reed

Eight female comedians will be participating in this SNF special standup comedy performance (Courtesy, Brian B.)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

The Sunday Night Funnies’ (SNF) third annual Women’s History Month (WHM) show is set for Sunday, March 2.

Eight comedians will be featured in the March 2 standup comedy performance.

This special show includes returning WHM show participants Cheryl Stoner and Lucky Lee, and new WHM performers CJ Harris and Brittany Melvin. Also taking the stage are 2023 Kingpin of Comedy competition finalist Sarah Wooley and 2024 Kingpin of Comedy quarterfinalist Elieen Nolton.

Lansing comedian Nicole Melnyk and Grand Rapids comic Kim Cook are also slated to perform. Melnyk has been voted Lansing’s Best Comic three times. Cook, a Second City alumni, was also a 2022 Kingpin of Comedy semifinalist. Cook will also participate in the special LaughFest Cancer Survivors Showcase on March 5 at Midtown GR that features all cancer survivor comics.

“The Sunday Night Funnies has always been a diverse show,” says Brian B., MC and Founder of the SNF. “When putting together the lineup each week, I try and have a good mix of comedians – be it race, gender or age-range.

“I wanted to celebrate the contribution women comedians have brought to the show through the years, and what better time to do that than Women’s History Month. Locally, it wasn’t long ago that there weren’t many women doing standup comedy. But over the course of the last few years that number has been steadily growing.”

Enjoy more comedy!

Upcoming SNF performances include SNF’s special LaughFest show on Sunday, March 9 with some of their most popular comedians from 2024.

The month of May will feature an Older American Month celebration performance with a lineup of comics ages 50+ (May 4), and the start of SNF’s seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition (May 11). The Kingpin of Comedy competition will run weekly through Oct. 26.

About SNF

The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. The weekly live stand-up comedy performance is free admission and features a variety of local and national comics. Each show begins at 7:30 p.m. (fall/winter) and 8:30 p.m. (spring/summer) at Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.

Wyoming PD invites community to utilize CALEA public comment portal

February 20, 20253-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Going Local, How-To's, Kent County, Our Cities, Reviewsaccreditation, award, CALEA, City of Wyoming, Community, Feedback, public comment portal, public safety, Wyoming Police DepartmentDeborah Reed

Capt. Eric Wiler (center) talks with local event attendees (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Wyoming Police invite members of the community to utilize the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) public comment portal.

CALEA Accreditation signifies more than just an award; it underscores firm dedication to professionalism, excellence and competence. It stands as a point of pride for the community and police department alike, demonstrating their commitment to upholding the highest standards in law enforcement.

How to provide comments

Anyone wishing to provide comments regarding the agency’s compliance with CALEA standards, engagement in the service community, delivery of public safety services, and overall candidacy for accredited status may provide comments to CALEA through the Public Comment Portal.

The Wyoming PD is looking for information to support continuous improvement and foster the pursuit of professional excellence (Courtesy, iCI Nation)

Comments can be in the form of commendations or concerns. The overall intent of the accreditation process is to provide the agency with information to support continuous improvement, as well as foster the pursuit of professional excellence. All comments made through the portal will be sent directly to CALEA; submitters will only receive acknowledgment of their submission.

Anyone wishing to leave comments and have them sent directly to Wyoming Police should use the non-emergency number 616-530-7300, appear in person at the police department, or use the online Police Department Contact Form.

Education & Environment: Wyoming school joins new PaperGator recycling challenge, hopes to win big!

February 17, 20253-bottom, Area Education, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Education, Environment, Finances, Going Local, Kent County, Kids Activities, Local Business, Local Faces, Non-Profits, Our Cities, Recycling, Upcoming Events, West MichiganAnchorPoint Christian School, City of Wyoming, Community, contest, Earth Day, Education, environment, local, PaperGator, recycling, studentsDeborah Reed

AnchorPoint Christian School in Wyoming is entering PaperGator’s first-ever Paper Recycling Contest in celebration of Earth Day (Courtesy, AnchorPoint Christian School)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

AnchorPoint Christian School in Wyoming has entered PaperGator’s first-ever Paper Recycling Contest in celebration of Earth Day!

PaperGator is offering participating locations the chance to earn exciting rewards by increasing their paper recycling volume until April 11. Locations that show the greatest improvement will be awarded up to $5,000, with the option for bonus prizes. All participants earn double the usual payouts during the contest period.

Investing in the future

Located in urban Wyoming, AnchorPoint has been providing faith-based education to Preschool-6 students since its inception in 2010.

The PaperGator contest teaches students about the importance of recycling while also supporting education (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

AnchorPoint serves a diverse student body, including 44% of students from low-income households. The payouts from PaperGator have helped support the school for the past 15 years by providing funds for educational resources, learning materials and physical activity tools.

Holly Gomez, AnchorPoint teacher, said this contest is important to the school for two main reasons.

“First, we value teaching students about the importance of recycling and sustainability, which is crucial for the environment and for the future of our community,” said Gomez. “Second, it offers us an opportunity to raise funds to purchase Classroom Cruiser Bike(s) for our library.”

Gomez went on to say that the bikes will help create a more dynamic and engaging learning environment by allowing students to merge physical activity with academic work.

“Recent research highlights the benefits of movement in enhancing cognitive function and academic performance in young learners,” Gomez said. “Many of our students face challenges with staying focused during extended periods of seated instruction.”

Gomez believes the Cruiser Bikes are an innovative resource that will make a significant impact on AnchorPoint students.

“The introduction of Classroom Cruiser Bikes will allow students to engage in light physical activity while reading, researching, or participating in library-based activities, fostering both academic and physical well-being.”

The double participation payouts will significantly boost AnchorPoint’s incoming funds, helping meet the cost of the Classroom Cruiser Bikes and possibly provide additional support for other educational tools that will enhance students’ learning experiences.

“Providing equitable access to innovative learning tools like Classroom Cruiser Bikes ensures that all students can benefit from cutting-edge educational resources, regardless of their socioeconomic background,” said Gomez.

Contest award details

Winners will be determined based on the largest percentage increase in paper recycled from January to April 11, compared with the same period in 2024.

Grand Prizes:
- 1st Place – $5,000
- 2nd Place – $2,000
- 3rd Place – $1,000
Top 10:
- Double Earnings for the entire year of 2025!
Bonus Prizes:
- 5 randomly selected participants will win $500 worth of school supplies (to be awarded at the start of the 2025 school year).
- All participants will earn Double Earnings from January 2025 through April 11, 2025.

Winners will be announced on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22.

Contribute to the environment and education!

Recycling plays a vital role in protecting the environment for future generations (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

In 2024, the school averaged 1,000 lbs. per month, the equivalent of half a PaperGator full of recyclable material.

AnchorPoint is reaching out to their business partners, the community and local churches to let them know about the opportunity to recycle with the school in order to increase their volume.

AnchorPoint encourages everyone to participate in the PaperGator Recycling Contest and consider recycling their paper products.

“Beyond helping our school, recycling plays a vital role in protecting the environment for future generations,” said Gomez. “By supporting us in this contest, you’re not only helping AnchorPoint, but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for the children we serve.”

AnchorPoint’s PaperGator bin is conveniently located in their parking lot at 601 36th Street SW in Wyoming.

Check out accepted PaperGator materials here.

AnchorPoint Christian School

Learn more about AnchorPoint Christian School here.

More information on how to support AnchorPoint’s mission of inspiring and educating the community through innovative, Christ-centered learning can be found here.

Cents vs. Sense: Megan Gorman to share financial feats and faux pas of U.S. presidents Feb. 19-20

February 16, 20253-bottom, Books, Citizen Journalism, Culture, Finances, Local History, Politics, Upcoming EventsAll the Presidents' Money, Barak Obama Presidential Library, Finances, Gerald R. Ford Library and Museum, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Megan Gorman, Money, politics, U.S. PresidentsDeborah Reed

Acclaimed wealth manager Megan Gorman will visit both the Gerald R. Ford Library and the Gerald R. Ford Museum to discuss the many ways presidents have made – or lost – money (Courtesy, GRFM)

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Megan Gorman, tax attorney, wealth manager and author (Courtesy, GRFM)

Megan Gorman, tax attorney, wealth manager and author, will be discussing the financial feats and faux pas of U.S. presidents at both the Gerald R. Ford Library in Ann Arbor (Feb. 19) and the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids (Feb. 20).

During these free events, attendees will have the opportunity to learn the many ways presidents have made – or lost – money as disclosed in Gorman’s book, All the Presidents’ Money: How the Men Who Governed America Governed Their Money.

“We are fortunate to be able to bring Megan Gorman to both of our locations as a guest speaker,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum.

“Her expertise as a wealth advisor will help guide the audience through the various financial identities of our nation’s leaders.”

The American Dream

“There’s something unique in the course of American history where we’re all dealing with these same problems under the context of everybody wanting to achieve the American financial dream,” said Gorman.

Though Gorman is founder and managing partner of Chequers Financial Management, a female-owned high-net-worth tax and financial planning firm in California, and a senior contributor at Forbes, she is no stranger to financial woes.

“I grew up very middle class in southern New Jersey, and the idea of being able to understand money and how to use it really appealed to me,” Gorman said.

When entering law school, Gorman knew she wanted to work with people – and that she didn’t want to practice law in the traditional sense. It was during her first tax class that Gorman realized she enjoyed problem solving and puzzles, and “it all clicked together for me.”

Fascinated by wealth and the journey to achieving it, Gorman embarked upon a path that opened up a new understanding of the psychology of money.

“Money is emotion”

“Over the years I have learned that the psychology of money – and the ability to understand our individual money stories no matter how much money we may have – is the key to making better financial decisions,” said Gorman. “I enjoy exploring financial issues through the lens of psychology, pop culture and history.

“Money touches every area of life, and money is emotion,” Gorman continued. “We all wake up at two in the morning at some point in our life worried about money.”

Gorman found that many prominent individuals – whether presidents, rock stars or actors – have faced financial struggles.

“Once you start to scratch at the surface, you realize that everybody’s struggling. Everybody makes good financial decisions, and everybody makes bad financial decisions.”

Making our own way

Gorman has loved reading about U.S. presidents since she was a young girl.

“I connected a lot as a child to their stories because a lot of the presidents grow up in small towns and eventually make their way out in the world,” said Gorman.

Realizing deep studies into the personal finances of the presidents did not exist, Gorman began her own research. She found that, regardless of the time period in American history, everybody has the same financial issues.

Anxiety about paying bills, affording college or buying a house is a unique human experience affecting all demographics.

Grand Rapids’ very own Gerald R. Ford was no exception.

“Ford lived paycheck to paycheck even when he was in the White House,” said Gorman. “It’s something you don’t think about the president worrying about, but of course he was worrying.”

What made Ford unique, Gorman continued, was his fearlessness when encountering a challenging financial moment.

Gerald R. Ford (left) is sworn in as the 38th President of the United States by Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren Burger on Aug. 9, 1974 (Courtesy, GRFM)

“He was willing to make decisions with his money that might have run contrary to what would be the normal path,” said Gorman. “I think that is why he ended up being so successful with money.”

Ford was one of the presidents Gorman enjoyed learning about most – and she is excited to share what she has learned with residents of his home state.

“Speaking at both the Library and the Museum is so exciting because [Ford] really transformed how presidents deal with money,” said Gorman. “He was a fascinating man, an incredible patriot, and he hated debt. He wanted to have no mortgages, and he worked very hard after the presidency to make sure that happened.”

The good, the bad, and the ugly

Along with Ford’s financial legacy, Gorman will discuss various other presidents and how timing and individual personalities impacted their presidency and financial situations.

“One of the best people with money in the course of the American presidency was actually Herbert Hoover,” said Gorman, adding that most people associate Hoover with the Great Depression. “He just had the misfortune of being president when it happened. And it was a pretty hard challenge to take that on. When you actually look at [Hoover], those four years were the worst four years of his life.”

However, the Quaker system taught Hoover how to budget money at a very young age, and he was known for giving back to the community.

In contrast, Thomas Jefferson was a founding father, wrote the Declaration of Independence, was a great thinker – but struggled with finance management.

“As talented as he was with all those other areas, he was not good with managing his own money,” said Gorman. “At the end of his life, Jefferson was about to lose Monticello, his debt was that bad.”

Even wealthy presidents such as Franklin D. Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy faced financial challenges.

Learning more about the U.S. presidents, Gorman said, reminded her of their humanity. “Some of them were really interesting people, just not great presidents.”

A solid…maybe

While Gorman says she would love to write another book, All the Presidents’ Money was a labor of love spanning four and a half years.

“Trust me, anyone who’s written a book will say you want to give up constantly,” Gorman said with a laugh, adding that the answer to whether another book is forthcoming is a solid…maybe.

“Maybe I’ll do this again,” said Gorman. “But I can tell you [All the Presidents’ Money] is one of the best things I’ve ever done, and I’m excited about it.”

Event details

Scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 19 at the Library and Feb. 20 at the Museum, these programs are free and open to the public.

Registration is encouraged. A Zoom option on Feb. 19 will be available for those who cannot attend in-person.

Both programs will conclude with a book sale and signing.

These events were made possible by the collaboration of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum, Barack Obama Presidential Library and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.

Wyoming mobile food pantry to be held Monday, Feb. 24

February 10, 2025Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, Community Health, CURBSIDE PICKUP, Food, Going Local, Health, Kent County, Our Cities, Upcoming Events, West MichiganCity of Wyoming, Community, Feeding America West Michigan, food, Mobile Food Pantry, Wyoming High SchoolDeborah Reed

By Deborah Reed

WKTV Managing Editor

deborah@wktv.org

Wyoming Public Schools (WPS) has partnered with Feeding America Mobile Pantry to host a Mobile Pantry once a month.

*WHS February Mobile Food Pantry will be held Monday, Feb. 24 from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

What to expect

Though the selection of food varies each month, there are always a variety of fresh and frozen items available at the Mobile Pantry.

The Mobile Pantry is drive-thru style, and families are asked to remain in their vehicles for safety.

Cars enter at the main entrance to WHS (1350 Prairie Parkway). Volunteers will direct traffic in the parking lot to help with efficiency.

Resources

To learn more about Feeding America West Michigan and the services they offer, click here.

For the Feeding America Mobile Food Pantry schedule, click here